THE LOUIS STOKES ALLIANCE FOR MINORITY PARTICIPATION
SOUTHWEST
February 21-22, 2025 Student Success Center and Canes Central
Dr. Michelle R. Johnston President
Georgia Southwestern State University
Welcome to Georgia Southwestern State University! It is my pleasure to extend a warm welcome as you join us on campus for the 6th Annual Southwest Georgia Louis Stokes Alliance for Minority Participation (LSAMP) Conference. We are honored to host such a distinguished gathering of scholars and mentors committed to advancing STEM education and innovation. The mission of LSAMP – supporting underrepresented students in the STEM fields – plays a vital role in shaping the future of our rural Southwest Georgia communities. From agriculture and healthcare to technology and infrastructure, scientific discovery and innovation drive economic growth and improve quality of life. By fostering collaboration and sharing knowledge, we can inspire the next generation of problem-solvers and equip our communities with the tools needed to thrive in an ever-evolving world. Throughout your time in Americus, you will have the opportunity to engage with fellow scholars, participate in insightful discussions, and gain valuable skills and perspectives. I encourage you to take full advantage of the sessions, connect with other attendees, and explore our beautiful campus. I am confident that you will leave this conference with new ideas, fresh inspiration, and a deeper appreciation for the impact of STEM. Best wishes for a productive and rewarding conference experience!
Dr. Monica Frazier Director, SWGA LSAMP Alliance Chair,
CSU Dept. of Biology
Welcome everyone to our 6th Annual Southwest Georgia (SWGA) LSAMP Alliance Summit. The Summit is an annual meeting for members of the SWGA LSAMP Alliance. Its overall goals are to provide a venue to showcase the research and accomplishments of our scholars and faculty mentors, to provide professional development opportunities for students and faculty, and to conduct the annual business meeting of the Alliance.
During the conference, you will have the opportunity to participate in professional development sessions, engage with LSAMP scholars and mentors across the alliance, and meet STEM professionals who are leaders in their respective fields. I am looking forward to seeing all of you and especially meeting the LSAMP Scholars and Associate Scholars who have come from various institutions across the Alliance to present their research. I am excited about the amazing program that our LSAMP team at GSW has put together.
This is a special conference as it is the final conference for the SWGA LSAMP Alliance under the current award issued in the Fall of 2018. From our first cohort of scholars recruited in Spring 2019 until Spring 2024, we have had 22 students go to graduate school and 26 to enter the STEM workforce. Although these numbers are small, it means a lot for those students who were afforded these opportunities that may not have otherwise achieved such a feat.
In closing, I want to thank all students, faculty, and staff for taking time out of your busy schedules to make this event a success. To the faculty mentors, I thank you for working with our scholars. Without you, students would not have research findings to present. To our LSAMP staff (Coordinators, Administrators, etc.), thank you for your commitment and service. Without you, our LSAMP program would not function on your respective campuses. To our GSW LSAMP Summit committee, thank you for the countless hours, emails, phone calls, and efforts in making this event a success. You have put together an amazing conference! Thank you! As we come together for our 6th summit, let us be sure to continue the mission of LSAMP and the SWGA Alliance as we pursue and never lose sight of our “possible selves.”
SCHEDULE – FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 21
Time Event Location
1:00-2:00 PM Check-in Canes Central
2:00-2:30 PM Welcome by President Johnston SSC 2413
2:30-3:30 PM Ice-breaker Activity SSC 2413
3:30-4:00 PM Break
4:00-5:00 PM STEM Pathways to Careers Panel
Panelists: Rama Ghimire, Christopher Warren, and Tammye Pettyjohn Jones
Moderator: Dr. Anne Jacobs SSC 2413
5:00-6:00 PM Dinner Private Dining Room
6:00-7:00 PM Concurrent Activities
• Motivational Session with Ervin Anderson (LSAMP Scholars)
• Board Meeting (LSAMP Faculty and Staff) Private Dining Room Faculty Dining Room
7:00 PM Hotel Check-in Hampton Inn, Americus
SCHEDULE – SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 22
Time Event Location
7:30-8:00 AM Hotel Check-out Hampton Inn, Americus
8:00-9:00 AM Breakfast Private Dining Room
9:00-10:30 AM Poster Session Canes Central
10:30-11:30 AM Concurrent Activities
• Connections with STEM in Industry with Mei-Chuang Kuo (LSAMP Scholars)
• Possible Selves Session with Dr. Dawn Frazier (LSAMP Faculty and Staff) SSC 2413 SSC 2417
11:30-noon Lunch SSC 2413
Noon-1:00 PM Keynote speaker – Dr. Robyn Espinosa SSC 2413
1:00-2:00 PM Awards/Closing Remarks SSC 2413
SPEAKER BIOS
Keynote Speaker
Dr. Robyn Espinosa
Dr. Robyn Espinosa is a distinguished health scientist and epidemiologist with over a decade of experience in various public health topics. She currently leads a national natural water safety surveillance and illness prevention program, utilizing a OneHealth approach to gather surveillance data and understand the complex interplay between the environment, animal health, and human health. Throughout her career, Dr. Espinosa has led efforts to improve surveillance and response strategies while mastering the art of professional pivots. Prior to her current role, she completed a fellowship analyzing three datasets to identify demographic characteristics of human trafficking victims. Her dissertation examined the school-to-prison pipeline, exploring how interactions with the justice system and adverse childhood experiences impact employment and recidivism. Dr. Espinosa employs both quantitative and qualitative research methods to develop messaging that is accessible and relatable to diverse audiences.
An eager pursuer of knowledge, Dr. Espinosa holds an Associate of Science in Health Sciences, a Bachelor of Science in Biology, a Master of Public Health in Community Health, and a Doctor of Philosophy in Occupational and Environmental Health with a specialization in occupational injury prevention. She also holds certificates in college teaching and Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion in the workplace.
Outside of her professional work, Dr. Espinosa understands the importance of balancing personal and professional life. She often spends weekends attending track and field meets, proudly cheering for her 16-year-old daughter as she excels in shot put and discus. Also, she enjoys pursuing interests in art, animals, museums, and culinary arts. An avid home cook, she delights in experimenting with new recipes.
Mr. Ervin D. Anderson
Mr. Anderson is a retired Georgia Southwestern State University Senior Lecturer of Mathematics (Emeritus). Upon retirement, he continues to working part-time as the Executive Director of the GSW AAMI Program to build young males into being successful college graduates and thinkers. His career has included teaching high school for three years and military school for five years. He will be celebrating his 40th Year at GSW at the end of this semester. Mr. Anderson and his wife Debra have three sons, Chad, Brandon and Jeremy. They have twelve grandchildren and three greatgrandchildren.
Christopher Warren is an Environmental Health Specialist for the Georgia Department of Public Health and is based in Sumter County. He was born in Atlanta, Georgia and grew up in Albany, Georgia where he attended Westover High School. He earned his bachelor’s degree in chemistry from Georgia Southwestern State University and is currently enrolled as a graduate student at the University of Maryland Global Campus for environmental management. He has aspirations of gaining a position in the Environmental Protection Agency to further his career in environmental management.
Christopher Warren
SPEAKER BIOS
Rama Ghimire
Rama holds a Master’s degree in Soil Science from Oregon State University, USA, and a Master’s degree in Microbiology from Tribhuvan University, Nepal. Currently, she is the Process Lab Manager at Molson Coors in Albany Brewery, where she leads microbiology, analytical testing, and sensory programs. Previously, she worked as a Research Professional at the University of Georgia, Tifton Campus.
With a strong academic and industry background, she brings valuable insights into microbiological research and quality assurance in the food and beverage industry
Dr. Andrea Dawn Frazier is an educational psychologist, and she currently teaches educational research courses in the Department of Teacher Education, Leadership, and Counseling at Columbus State University. Her research interests encompass the educative experience of students of color and girls, with recent work exploring possible selves as a pathway to STEM degree attainment for underrepresented students. She co-edited “Special Populations in Gifted Education: Understanding Our Most Able Students from Diverse Backgrounds” with Dr. Jaime Castellano. Along with her work as a faculty member and researcher, she currently serves as the Possible Selves Coordinator with the Louis Stokes Alliance for Minority Participation (LSAMP) program, the Associate Editor for Gifted Child Quarterly, and the Associate Dean for Columbus State University’s Honors College.
Dr. Andrea Dawn Frazier
SPEAKER BIOS
Mei-Chuang Kuo
Mei-Chuang Kuo is an Advanced Data Analyst of Honeywell. She holds dual bachelor’s degrees in agriculture and business administration from the National Taiwan University as well as a master’s degree in accountancy from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. She is a Certified Public Accountant (CPA), Certified Internal Auditor (CIA), and Certified Information System Auditor (CISA). At Honeywell, she works with technical and business subject matter experts in the deployment of enterprise analytics platforms to support business intelligence and data-driven decision making.
Tammye Dee Pettyjohn Jones is a proud native of Chattanooga, Tennessee born to the late Samuel Pettyjohn and Julia Pettyjohn. Sister to four (4) brothers, Attorney Casper, Attorney Musa, Murrell, and Saadiq Pettyjohn; Wife to The Honorable Clay L. Jones, Sr., Mother to three (3) sons, Clay, Jr., Dr. Mycah, and Jurrell Jones; and Grandmother to one (1) grandson, Drew. Recognized as a Youth Visionary Leader, she graduated from Notre Dame High School in Chattanooga and left an amazing footprint of accomplishments which included Law Explorers through Junior Achievement, Math & Science Competitions, Class Officer, Lead Teen Organizer for “St. Jude Dance Marathon” raising $10,000 within 24 hours for research on childhood cancer. All-American Athlete, Girl Scouts, mountain climber, journalist, musician, and more.
Tammye left Tennessee to attend the prestigious Tuskegee University in Tuskegee, Alabama where she obtained a Bachelor of Science degree in Chemical Engineering. Her values and passion for education, community, and civic engagement has resonated in the next generation with her sons, who achieved the highest rank in scouting as Eagle Scouts and graduates from Tuskegee University, Florida A&M University, and St. Augustine University for Health Sciences with Masters and Doctorate degrees.
While matriculating at Tuskegee University, Tammye had an amazing variety of work experience which included 3 technical engineering internships and CO-OP with Fortune 500 companies in Cincinnati, OH; Greensboro, NC; and Muscle Shoals, AL. This helped to jumpstart an exciting professional career journey in the business industry. She began her career as a Process Engineer with LUVS disposable diapers then various assignments such as Reliability Engineer, Purchasing, Utilities and Operations, Contract Manufacturing, Chemical Engineer,
Tammye Pettyjohn Jones
Customer Service Logistics Manager, Organizational Business Manager with multiple brands: Pampers, Bounty, Charmin, Tide, and Gain to name a few. Assignment locations included Albany, Georgia, Alexandria, Louisiana, with frequent business trips to Modesto, California, Mehoopany, Pennsylvania, Cape Girardeau, Missouri, St. Louis, Missouri just to name a few.
After several promotions, Tammye was responsible for a significant number of engineers and technicians at any given time and over $100 Million operating annual budget with aggressive deliverables.
Tammye’s next chapter was a career change to the U.S. House of Representatives, District Field Representative assignment. Assigned to 6 counties and 11 counties of agriculture, this became another opportunity to bring engineering principles, systems, and processes into rural communities to leverage rural prosperity. Advocating and supporting storm water/sewage water separation project, rural water issues, homelessness, airport hangar renovations, funding for safe drinking water. Through her influence, guidance, and advocacy with the Congressman, multi-millions in funding have been awarded to Sumter County & surrounding Communities. Currently, Tammye serves in the capacity of Director of Programs with One Sumter Economic Development Foundation, Inc. This role allows her to serve as a catalyst to bring organizations together to deliver an economic development boost that will enhance our economy, increase job opportunities, and attract/retain industry in Sumter County. Reformation Project/Crime Initiatives, Broadband Project, Free Wi-Fi Downtown Americus, The Rev. Pearly Brown Music Park & Amphitheater, and the launching of The Ignite College & Career Academy are some of the impactful and transformative projects led through One Sumter.
PRESENTATION ABSTRACTS
Abraham Baldwin Agricultural College
Microbial Model to Evaluating the Effects of Nicotinamide Riboside (NR) on Boosting Cell Growth to Generate Total NAD+/NADH
Presenter: Roberto Fernandez Major: Biology
Co-author(s): Barbara McFadden
Mentor: Dr. Kingsley Dunkley
Nicotinamide Riboside (NR), as a supplement, has gained attention due to its potential benefits in various health areas, including cardiovascular health, insulin sensitivity, and neurodegenerative diseases. NR serves as a precursor to nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD+), a vital coenzyme involved in numerous metabolic processes necessary for cellular energy and overall function. We aim to further investigate the effects of NR by analyzing its impact on NAD+/NADH in three distinct bacterial species and discern whether supplementation potentially enhances the growth of microbiomes within the gastrointestinal tract (GIT). In this study, we grew three microorganisms— Bacillus subtilis, Escherichia coli, and Shigella flexneri in LB broth, dividing them into two groups: one treated with 0.2 mg/mL NR and one untreated control group. We collected samples at different time points (0h, 2h, 5h, and 8h) and measured total NAD+/NADH concentrations. Our results indicated that NR supplementation at 0.2 mg/mL did not significantly alter NAD+/NADH levels in Bacillus subtilis, and inconsistencies were observed in NAD+/NADH concentrations of E. coli and Shigella flexneri. Upon further review of the methods and data, an error was identified in data quantification due to background absorbance not being accounted for, resulting in inaccurate concentration measurements. Nevertheless, this research approach can provide valuable insight into how NR supplementation may affect the microbiome profile in the GIT and potentially affect gut health. Future replication of this study could yield better results and further validate the trends observed in data collected.
PRESENTATION ABSTRACTS
Abraham Baldwin Agricultural College
Heavy Metal Remediation Using Alligator Weed (Alternanthera philoxeroides)
Presenter: Alex Ramirez-Silva Major: Biology
Co-author(s): Katie Pattillo
Mentor: Dr. Christopher Beals
Heavy metal contamination from industrial pollution, wastewater effluent, and mining activities can negatively impact ecosystems. Alligator Weed, Alternanthera philoxeroides, has been observed to absorb heavy metals. Investigations were conducted to study the tolerance of A. philoxeroides in increasing concentrations (1, 5, 10 ppm) of heavy metals including lead, copper, chromium, and nickel. A. philoxeroides is a nonnative invasive plant that originated in Brazil and Argentina and can be found infesting freshwater ecosystems throughout the southeastern United States. Despite its status as an invasive plant, A. philoxeroides has been reported to be a remarkable heavy metal hyperaccumulator. This study focuses on the phytoremediation potential of A. philoxeroides to remove heavy metals from the aquatic environment and determine metal translocation within plants, comparing metal concentrations in leaves and stems. In order to determine plant stress due to metal absorption, a field fluorometer, which measures Photosystem II efficiency, was used. Fluorometric measurements of plants demonstrated that A. philoxeroides tolerated all concentrations of metal exposures with no visible evidence of necrosis.
PRESENTATION ABSTRACTS
Abraham Baldwin Agricultural College Evaluation of Regenerative Properties of Several Regional Plant-Based Extracts on Skin Fibroblast Cells
Presenters: Christopher Hernandez and Isabel Contreras
Majors: Biology
Mentor: Dr. Mathew Casimiro
The South has always been a place where home remedies and scientific-based medicine go hand in hand. Historical practices involved using homemade salves and ointments to treat various maladies. Prior work identified specific plants, via an ethnobotany screening approach, and soluble extracts were produced and tested on subcutaneous human skin cancer cells. Contrary to the hypothesis, extracts promoted cell growth and viability. In order to determine if the extracts promote dermal regeneration, a fibroblast model will be deployed. The cellular assays will be conducted in a 2D-tissue culture model to assess cell growth and viability. The assays employed are “MTT Assay” -cell growth and proliferation, cell cytotoxicity and wound healing assay to evaluate cell migration in response to an artificial wound. If the extracts demonstrate positive effects on regular skin cell regeneration, it could open new avenues for possible wound healing treatments therapy.
Abraham Baldwin Agricultural College
Evaluating the Effects of Melatonin on Heat Stress Resistance in C. elegans
Presenter: Nashra Layla Major: Biology
Mentor: Dr. Amber Howard
Melatonin is a hormone with known antioxidant and stress-relieving properties in various organisms. This study aimed to investigate the effects of melatonin on heat stress resistance, lifespan, and overall health in Caenorhabditis elegans. We hypothesized that melatonin treatment would enhance the worms' ability to survive heat stress. In this preliminary experiment, adult C. elegans were treated with melatonin at concentrations of 0.5 mM, 1 mM, and 5 mM, with a control group receiving no melatonin. The worms were then exposed to a high-temperature environment (37°C) to assess heat stress survival. Surprisingly, no survival was observed in either the treated or control groups, suggesting that melatonin did not confer protection under these conditions. These results indicate the need for further experiments to optimize melatonin concentration, refine heat stress conditions, and explore alternative methods for assessing its potential protective effects in C. elegans
PRESENTATION ABSTRACTS
Abraham Baldwin Agricultural College
Evaluating a ‘forgotten’ resistance trait to Cowpea Curculio in Southern Pea
Presenter: Jayna Burch Major: Agriculture
Co-author(s): Kayln Culpepper
Mentor: Dr. Michael, J.W. Maw
Southern Pea (Vigna unguiculata) is a minor vegetable crop grown in the Southern U.S. In 2023 approximately 1800 acres of southern peas were produced across 31 south Georgia counties according to the Farm Service Agency. The most prominent pest to the southern pea is the Cowpea Curculio (Chalcodermus aeneus). Adult weevils will damage the seed in the pod while feeding and the female will also deposit her eggs into the pod itself. Once the eggs hatch into larvae, they feed on the developing seed before exiting. This greatly diminishes the possible crop yield, even if insecticide is regularly sprayed. Afew varieties that have some resistance to Cowpea Curculio have been identified. A collection of varieties with reported resistance to the curculio were obtained from the USDA GRIN and seven varieties were hand planted in May 2024 at ABAC’s J.G. Woodruff Farm in a Randomized Complete Block Design in three replications. Once pod filling commenced, pod samples were regularly harvested from each plot from 24 July through 11 Nov. Samples were stored in a freezer for later analysis. Each sample was then removed from the freezer and the total pod number counted. Then five representative pods were selected for measuring if exit holes were found, number of seeds per pod, and how many seeds were damaged by feeding. Results are being analyzed and will be presented at the meeting.
PRESENTATION ABSTRACTS
Abraham Baldwin Agricultural College
Analysis of Bachman’s Sparrow Abundance in South Georgia
Presenter: Isis Swartz
Major: Natural Resources Management
Mentors: Dr. Vanessa Lane, Dr. William Moore
Bachman’s sparrow (Peucaea aestivalis) is a species of concern in the forests and shrublands of the southeastern United States. The open grassy understory they reside within is slowly declining in the Coastal Plains. Surveys by many agencies have documented the sparrow’s decline since 1966 (USGS 1966). Such data are used to assist the Georgia Department of Natural Resources to define wildlife and habitat management priorities listed in the State Wildlife Action Plan (SWAP) for rare and threatened species, which is updated every decade. Previous Bachman’s sparrow surveys may not be representative of true bird population size because surveys have been primarily conducted on feral or state-owned land, while 93% of Georgia is privately owned. This study aims to determine if surveys which include populations on private land change statewide estimates for the species, and thus better inform management efforts. We will conduct point counts during the Bachman’s sparrow breeding season (March-June) following standard breeding bird survey methodology. Point counts will be conducted from sunrise until no later than 10:00am in Tift County and adjacent counties on privately owned lands containing suitable Bachman’s habitat. Point counts consist of 3 minutes of passive listening and 2 minutes of callback using a recording, which should generate a response from local territorial males. This study is not representative of the entirety of Georgia and the data is positively skewed because the surveys will be conducted in areas that Bachman’s sparrows are most likely to be present. Nonetheless, this study can be used to more holistically survey the Bachman’s sparrow population.
PRESENTATION ABSTRACTS
Abraham Baldwin Agricultural College
What are the Key Drivers of Private Forestland Parcelization in the Eastern US?
Presenter: Freddy Najera
Major: Natural Resources Management
Mentor: Dr. David Ray
Forest parcelization is the ongoing trend in private forestland ownership of smaller forest ownerships emerging as larger holdings are subdivided or inherited by multiple heirs. This trend can lead to changes in land use and the local forest-based economy as new owners take on different objectives for the property. I will use survey data from the National Woodland Owners Survey (NWOS) to track changes in private forestland ownership and their potential drivers to better understand forest parcelization in the Southeast and Northeast US. Specifically, I intend to use a Classification and Regression Tree (CART) analysis to quantify the relationship potential drivers have to forest parcelization as predictor variables. Predictor variables important to each survey cycle will be further examined as areas of focus to counteract the negative consequences of forest parcelization.
PRESENTATION ABSTRACTS
Columbus State University
Identification of pathogenic bacterial strain of Aeromonas hydrophila isolated from Lepomis cyanellus fish to predict the longterm consumption of infected fish in waterways of Columbus, Georgia
Presenter: Nylah Phillips Major: Biology
Mentor: Dr. Ensaf Taha
This study focuses on Aeromonas hydrophila as the primary bacterial strain infecting fish and affecting human health. From a Lepomis cyanellus (green sunfish) harvested from Weracoba Creek, we cultured the bacteria from the lesion of the fish on sheep blood agar. Our findings from the isolates showed a heavy presence of Aeromonas hydrophilia. Gram-staining and a series of biochemical tests were conducted to categorize colony morphology and identify various characteristics of A. hydrophila. The isolated bacterial colonies were determined to be gram-negative coccobacilli that contain cytochrome oxidase and the catalase enzyme that can ferment carbohydrates, have motility, and produce indole. Antibiotic resistance and susceptibility testing was also done using the Kirby Bauer method, determining that Aeromonas is susceptible to gentamicin, chloramphenicol ciprofloxacin, novobiocin, azithromycin, and kanamycin. Histological examination was used to examine whether further damage was done by the bacteria to the fish internal organs. Scanning electron microscopy revealed the virulence of the bacteria once successfully infecting the fish. We found that the liver of the fish showed irreparable damage and aggregated macrophages in the spleen. Aeromonas appeared to be in a filamentous state when exposed to carbon dioxide present in the liver, and we speculate that the bacteria develop the filaments as a type of resistance mechanism for survival in an unfavorable environment. As further research is done on A. hydrophila infecting fish, we aim to continue our work to include the consumption of raw fish meat as sushi before it poses a greater threat to the population.
PRESENTATION ABSTRACTS
Valdosta State University
Evaluation of Antibacterial Properties in Natural Bioactive Compounds
Presenter: Airionna Fordham Major: Chemistry
Coauthor(s): Tolulope O Salami, Xiaomei Zheng
Mentor: Dr. Gopeekrishnan Sreenilayam
In recent years the presence of multidrug resistant (MDR) pathogenic bacteria has risen at an alarming rate. To combat this pressing issue, many scientists have sought to find new sources for antibiotic compounds. This experiment utilizes the ultrasonic-assisted extraction (UAE) method to collect the natural bioactive compounds from Parquentina nigrescens (Bullock) and Annona senegalensis (African custard apple), and antibacterial disk assays to evaluate their antibacterial properties against Bacillus subtilis, Escherichia coli, and Serratia marcescens. The plants in question are used in traditional medicine across the world. To obtain the extracts, each plant matter was soaked in ethanol at 4oC and individually in ethyl acetate, ethanol, and hexane for five days at room temperature. The solvents were chosen to extract a range of compounds from the plants. Then the samples were sonicated and centrifuged; their supernatant liquid was reconcentrated using ethyl acetate or hexane to store. The samples soaked in ethanol and stored in ethyl acetate displayed antibacterial properties indicated by a zone of inhibition. The crude extracts that displayed antibacterial properties were analyzed using gas chromatographymass spectrometry (GC-MS) to identify the high and low molecular weight components. GC-MS results identified the bioactive compounds oleic acid, phytol, and 2,4-DTBP in the samples. In order to explore the extraction of the bioactive compounds further, researchers will conduct experiments comparing the contents of the samples at varied intervals of time and testing their antibacterial activity using high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC), GC-MS, and antibacterial disk assay.
PRESENTATION ABSTRACTS
Valdosta State University
Behavioral
Ecology and
Dietary
Preferences of Gambusia affinis in a Laboratory Setting
Presenter: Aldo Madrigal Olivarez Major: Biology
Coauthor(s): Keishona Gordon
Mentor: Dr. Emily Rose
Gambusia affinis, or mosquitofish, is an adaptable species found in freshwater and brackish environments, playing an important role in controlling mosquito larvae populations that transmit diseases. Parasitized mosquitofish with trematode infestations show visible dark spots, allowing us to categorize them as parasitized. These parasitized fish can have reproductive issues and altered mating behaviors making it crucial to investigate differences compared to healthy fish. Understanding the dietary preferences and behaviors of G. affinis is essential for its management as an environmental health indicator. Following the collection of mosquitofish from their natural habitats, experiments were conducted in a controlled laboratory setting to assess food preferences and behavioral differences in visually parasitized and non-parasitized G. affinis. The first study examined the food preferences of non-parasitized males, gravid nonparasitized females, and gravid parasitized females (n=10) across three food types: artificial pellets, live brine shrimp, and seaweed. Results showed a strong preference for live brine shrimp among all groups (p<0.05). Secondly, we investigated how behaviors, such as swimming, freezing, thrashing, hiding, and eating, varied under different light conditions, such as daytime and nighttime simulations. Parasitized females (n=15) exhibited around 10.2 (±0.6) behaviors per minute during the day in white light, compared to 9.1 (±0.5) in red light simulating night. Non-parasitized females (n=15) under white light displayed about 7.3 (±0.6) behaviors per minute, while in red light they displayed 8.1 (±0.7). There was no statistical difference in behaviors across the red versus white light treatments for all female fish. These findings improve our understanding of the behavioral ecology of G. affinis and provide insights into their dietary preferences. As there are limited studies investigating mosquitofish, these results can later be compared to climate change models to determine if climate change is affecting mosquitofish populations.
PRESENTATION ABSTRACTS
Valdosta State University
Image Segmentation using Deep Neural Networks
Presenter: Joshua Reed Major: Computer Science
Mentor: Dr. Ahana Roy Choudhury
This study proposes leveraging a dataset from UC Berkeley to develop advanced image segmentation techniques aimed at enhancing the capabilities of autonomous driving systems. By focusing on urban environments, the research addresses the critical challenge of accurately identifying and distinguishing between key elements such as street signs and road markings. This work is particularly important as it holds the potential to assist individuals with disabilities or those who lack the motor control necessary for safe driving, offering a pathway to increased independence and mobility.
The central hypothesis is that image segmentation models trained on high-quality datasets, such as the UC Berkeley dataset, can effectively distinguish between urban environmental features like street signs and road markings. This capability could enable autonomous vehicles to navigate complex cityscapes with improved accuracy and reliability, addressing key challenges in urban autonomous navigation.
The proposed methodology involves utilizing convolutional neural networks (CNNs) and deep learning techniques to perform pixel-level segmentation of images. An existing CNN architecture will be employed, trained on the dataset’s training set, and evaluated using loss vs. epoch plots to identify an optimal learning rate. Image augmentation and class balancing techniques are planned to enhance the model's accuracy. Controls will be applied to ensure consistent evaluation of model performance, with Python scripts used to implement these methods, and the training processes conducted on GPUs to achieve faster training.
This presentation will focus on the conceptual framework, methodology, and anticipated outcomes of the proposed work, which remains in progress. The study aims to highlight the potential impact of these models on autonomous driving systems and outline future directions. Key references for this proposed study include the UC Berkeley dataset for urban scene segmentation and relevant literature on image segmentation algorithms and architectures.
PRESENTATION ABSTRACTS
Valdosta State University
Gene Flow of Peanut snails (Cerion) in the Florida Keys
Presenter: Charlyce Mitchell Major: Biology
Mentor: John Phillips
The Florida Keys are an island system running southeast of Florida that provides a diverse ecosystem in support of a wide variety of biodiversity. We are using these islands that provide an isolated environment to study evolutionary change in Cerion land snails. We will use genome-scale sequence data from Cerion across the Florida Keys to examine dynamics and patterns of gene flow and test how these patterns relate to the geography of the archipelago and ocean currents. We will also test patterns of dispersal relative to biotic and abiotic factors that may influence the gene flow of Cerion. These samples were collected from all known keys when Cerion populations exist, primarily from the endemic species C. incanum, but also other introduced Cerion species. The inclusion of these non-native taxa will allow us to analyze rates of hybridization and introgression in these snails.
PRESENTATION ABSTRACTS
Valdosta State University
Galactic Fountaining: Tracing the Impact of the Andromeda-Sagittarius Collision
Presenter: Jasmine Freeman
Major: Astronomy and Physics
Mentor: Shafat Mubin
Galaxy mergers are commonly accompanied by large-scale dynamical events, but the processes involved in redistribution of gas in these situations have been poorly understood. This work is about galactic fountaining caused by the imminent merger of the Andromeda and Sagittarius galaxies, namely how gravitational interactions shape interstellar medium dynamics. Our simulations of the gas flows, done using high-precision hydrodynamical models, reveal a rotational flow from disk to halo region. We have found that such collisions both redistribute galactic gas and spur star formation like never before. This study presents a new lens through which to see the life history of galactic ecosystems, and into what our cosmic neighbourhood will look like in the future.
PRESENTATION ABSTRACTS
Valdosta State University
Expression of an Aquaporin Gene in E. coli
Presenter: Caidyn Carr Major: Chemistry
Mentor: Dr. Donna Gosnell
Aquaporins are specialized proteins that selectively transport water across cellular membranes. This study is part of an ongoing research project aimed at producing aquaporin proteins in sufficient quantities to develop a biomimetic film for water desalination. A specific aquaporin gene was identified in the microalga Trebouxia due to its high sequence similarity to an aquaporin gene found in the saltwater sea lettuce Ulva mutabilis. The hypothesis is that aquaporins from saltwater organisms may be more effective for desalination applications compared to those from other species.
In previous work, this aquaporin gene was cloned into a plasmid and expressed in E. coli. The current study focuses on analyzing the expression of the aquaporin protein in E. coli both qualitatively and quantitatively. A rough protein concentration was determined using a nanospectrometer, although this method was limited by light scattering from the membranes. To obtain a more accurate measure of protein concentration, a Bradford reagent test was subsequently performed. For the detection and purification of the specific aquaporin protein, gel electrophoresis and Ni-NTA resin was performed. The current results indicate a protein concentration of 0.233 mg/mL. The data from E. coli will be compared with parallel experiments conducted in yeast. This poster highlights the project's current progress.
PRESENTATION ABSTRACTS
Valdosta State University
Expression of an Aquaporin Gene in Yeast
Presenter: Carlton Francis II
Mentor: Dr. Donna Gosnell
Major: Chemistry
The current work is part of a larger research project to produce aquaporin protein in sufficient amounts to create a biomimetic film for the desalination of water. Aquaporins are proteins that selectively transport water across membranes. Prior bioinformatics research found an aquaporin gene in a micro alga called Trebouxia. This gene was chosen because of its high sequence similarity to an aquaporin gene in a saltwater sea lettuce, Ulva mutabilis. The hypothesis is that aquaporin proteins from saltwater organisms may be better choices for the desalination of water than from other species.
Previously, this gene was incorporated into a plasmid and cloned into both bacteria (E. coli) and yeast (S. cerevisiae). The current project seeks to examine the expression of aquaporin protein in yeast both qualitatively and quantitatively by performing the Bradford test, His tag (Ni-NTA) chromatography, electrophoresis, Western blotting, and solubilization of our proteins. This will be compared to a parallel project doing the same in E. coli. The current results are that we determined a protein concentration of 82.7mg/mL and solubilize our proteins. This poster summarizes the current progress of the project.
PRESENTATION ABSTRACTS
Valdosta State University
The Use of Copper Crystals to Improve Cancer Drug Delivery Rates
Presenter: Mariam Duarte Marcia Major: Chemistry
Co-authors: Carolina Aponte-Rodríguez, Vanessa Brignolle
Mentor: Dr. Thomas Manning
This project focuses on developing a novel excipient, a pharmaceutical substance mixed with the active ingredient in the finished drug formulation. For example, in Aspirin tablets Acetylsalicylic acid is the active ingredient, and the inactive ingredients or excipients include FD&C red #40, FD&C yellow #6, methacrylic acid copolymer, microcrystalline cellulose, pregelatinized starch, silicon dioxide, sodium bicarbonate, sodium lauryl sulfate, stearic acid, talc, and triethyl citrate. Excipients can facilitate long-term stabilization, add taste, control the release rate, increase solubility, and increase adsorption at a cellular level or serve as diluents.
In this project, we are using the Cu (II) cation and the crystals it can make as a delivery agent for cancer drugs. Cancer patients have higher than average copper levels in their serum and in the cancerous region when in comparison to an individual who does not have cancer. Copper is essential for the metabolism and growth of healthy cells. In cancer cells, copper can dysregulate and facilitate the development of tumors. The Cu (II) increases the water solubility of a target molecule (Taxol) and provides a disguise to overcome drug resistance by the tumor. In this presentation, we will outline our work on the syntheses of copper crystals that contain cancer drugs and some of their properties, including their ability to dissolve, improve water solubility, and overcome cancer drug resistance. Shown below are copper crystals that contain a medication. The copper crystals will be dissolved into micrometer sized particles.
Valdosta State University
UV Analysis of Engineered Heme Biocatalyst Stability in Deep Eutectic Solvents
Presenter: David Vasquez Major: Chemistry
Mentor: Dr. Gopeekrishnan Sreenilayam
The application of biocatalysts in facilitating chemical reactions is highly favored in organic synthesis due to their exceptional selectivity and efficiency. Biocatalysts are environmentally sustainable, cost-effective, and operate under milder conditions compared to traditional methods. However, aqueous/organic co-solvent-based biocatalytic reactions face challenges such as limited substrate scope and solubility, catalyst stability, recycling issues, decreased reaction kinetics, high toxicity, and low sustainability index. Deep eutectic solvents (DES) offer a promising alternative. DES are a class of solvents synthesized from inexpensive, biodegradable, and naturally occurring renewable components. Their low toxicity, nonflammability, and negligible vapor pressure make DES favorable for biocatalysis. A pure DES system or an aqueous-DES mix for biocatalytic reactions can overcome the limitations of organic solvent-based biocatalytic reactions. This research aims to establish the optimal DES for biocatalyst stability and activity. Various Choline chloride and Betaine-based DES will be synthesized to study engineered myoglobin-DES combinations. The stability of the biocatalyst within each DES will be monitored through UV-Vis spectroscopy.
PRESENTATION ABSTRACTS
Valdosta State University
Comparative Analysis of Spatial Variability in GrIS Surface and Glacial Bed Roughness
Presenter: Alma Diaz
Major: Geoscience - Physical Geography
Co-authors: Danielle Grau, Georgia Institute of Technology, GA
Mentor: Dr. Alex Robel
Surface roughness characteristics of the Greenland Ice Sheet (GrIS) can reveal insights into subglacial dynamics and ice sheet behavior. These characteristics are known as self-affine properties where surfaces show consistent “bumpiness” patterns across different scales of observation, making them statistically identical. Our research was driven by the following: how can we accurately quantify surface roughness across GrIS?
Surface roughness can be parameterized using the Hurst exponent (H) H (defined as 0 ≤ H ≤ 1) describes topographical roughness on a scale of zero to one. High H is indicative of relatively rough trends at large scales and noted as either a persistent increasing or persistent decreasing elevation. Low H will have similar roughness (“smoother surface” elevation) across scales. These H values can be associated with stable ice conditions or areas of dynamic changes in ice melt. Understanding these patterns is crucial for improving climate models, as these factors are essential in predicting ice sheet stability and melt rates.
This project created a workflow to calculate surface roughness metrics across the Greenland Ice Sheet using 91 days of ICESat-2 satellite altimeter data from February to May. The land-ice surface heights used in this study were collected by the ATLAS (Advanced Topographic Laser Altimeter System) device on board ICESat-2. ATLAS splits the laser altimeter into six beams of three pairs. For this analysis, I use only the left of all three ground tracks because of its stronger beam capabilities. Photon data was truncated into ten kilometers and down sampled to remove outliers in land ice height that were extremely large or invalid. This would provide greater continuity in H estimates. FFT (Fast Fourier Transform) amplitudes of land ice elevation to calculate the PSDs (power spectral densities). We established the linear regression of power law relation between the PSDs and spatial frequencies. This yields the PSD coefficient, from which H can be extrapolated from its direct relationship.
Findings show significant variation in Hurst exponents across the study areas, with values ranging from 0.37 to 0.57 for the Greenland Ice Sheet. The average H is 0.46. Central
Greenland has lower H, indicative of little if any persistence in increasing or decreasing elevation. (There is less bumpiness and smoother consistency in elevation at length scale). Northern and southwestern coastlines display higher H (dark areas) and appear rough at large scales. Nearby elevation will follow an increasing or decreasing trend (more persistent bumpiness). A zoom in of the same area (at a small length) would show smooth terrain.
The Greenland Ice Sheet exhibits significant variations in surface roughness, which can be quantified using Hurst exponents (H values). These values may help establish a predictable relationship between ice sheet characteristics and factors such as lake size and depth. Future investigations would include how anisotropic scaling could be explored by comparing roughness patterns with ice flow directions. Phase II of the project will focus on computing H values for the bed topography beneath the Greenland Ice Sheet (GrIS) at a set extent. This phase assesses the alignment between surface and bed features to investigate the correlation between bed and surface roughness at length scales.
Dr. Anne Jacobs
Campus Coordinator
anne.jacobs@gsw.edu
Dr. Manoj Thapa
Activities Coordinator
manoj.thapa@gsw.edu