Paper Abstracts, In Order of Appearance (go to Posters)
9:20-9:35 – Wednesday, Glenn Auditorium
Authors: Erin Nicole Jackson, Loren Honnas, Jennifer Abner, Dr. Allen Gathman*, and Dr. Walt Lilly*
Title: Analysis of Gene Expression on Nitrogen-Limited Media Using Expressed Sequence Tags in Schizophyllum commune
Major: Biolgy, Chemistry
Course or Department in which work was conducted: Biolgy
Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Allen Gathman
Abstract: Schizophyllum commune is a common basidiomycete that is simple to maintain and study under different laboratory conditions. Previous research has shown that when Schizophyllum commune is grown on nitrogen-poor medium, older cells are lysed to recycle nutrients to the newer growth. Given this fact, gene expression during the time of nitrogen-limited stress is of interest. Gene expressions are monitored for three different media conditions: mycelia grown on minimal media (MIN), mycelia grown for six hours on low-nitrogen media (6HR), and mycelia grown for twelve hours on low-nitrogen media (MO1). Expressed sequence tags (ESTs) are short cDNA sequences that represent the gene expression in organisms under distinct conditions. A mass excision method was used to obtain ESTs for this project. The vector p-Bluescript was used to insert fragments from the cDNA library created from each of the three medial conditions. To identify which of the cells contained the phagemid insert, the blue-white screening method was used. Those colonies that appear blue in color were expressing the B-galactosidase gene and did not contain an insert. The white colonies were chosen and isolated for purification of the vector through QIAGEN plasmid purification preps or Wizard preps. After purification, cDNA inserts were sequenced and compared to nucleotide sequences in GenBank to determine their identity. The obtained ESTs were also submitted to the GenBank database. Ultimately, this database serves to help identify the gene in question, how it is being expressed, and how it functions within the organism. Three-hundred and fourteen genes have been located by this project alone, with 183 having homology to other entries in GenBank. On top of these, 43 clones have been identified as duplicates of other genes previously located. The large number of identifiable genes isolated so far suggests that this approach may help reveal the mechanism of response to nitrogen limitation and other gene responses in Schizophyllum commune.
9:35-9:50 – Wednesday, Glenn Auditorium
Authors: Emily R. Goforth
Title: Conditional Counting of Trials
Major: Psychology
Course or Department in which work was conducted: Psychology
Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Richard Burns
Abstract: Abstract Earlier experiments (Burns & Dunkman, 1999) have demonstrated the significant role that position cues play in serial learning. The purpose of the present study was to seek evidence that information about position, exclusive of memory cues, is used to distinguish rewarded trials from non-rewarded trials. Rats were trained on three and four-trial series in which memory varied. Reward, in terms of plain pellets (P), and sucrose pellets (S), was positioned within the series so that exclusive position cues were provided. Non-rewarded trials, (N) were defined as a thirty-second confinement within the goal box of the L-shaped runway used in training. Position of reward varied in both three-trial series, SPN and PSN, and also four-trial series, NSPN and NPSN. After thirty-one days of training, approach to both reward types, P and S, is generally faster than it is to non-rewarded trials, though not significantly. A slower approach to N in transfer series, NNNN, is planned but not completed. The duration of training has not been sufficient for significant results to have emerged, which suggests that memory varied poses a more difficult challenge for the animals than does memory constant, a finding synonymous to research conducted by Burns, Kinney, and Criddle (2000).
10:00-10:15 – Wednesday, Glenn Auditorium
Authors: Saira Kahn and Dr. Mohammed Ali*
Title: Doximation Reaction With Silica Gel Supported Jones Reagent in Non-Aqueous Media
Major: Biology
Course or Department in which work was conducted: Chemistry
Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Mahammed Ali
Abstract: Chromium (VI) based reagents are among a wide variety of reagents available to regenerate carbonyl compounds from oximes. Traditionally, Chromium based oxidizing reagents utilize aqueous organic bi-phase media. Use of water in organic transformations suffers from a number of disadvantages. Moreover, Cr (VI) salts are toxic and the amount of this reagent used in any reaction ideally should be limited. We have developed a silica gel supported chromic acid reagent for regeneration of carbonyl functional group from oximes. Unlike traditional chromic acid oxidation procedure our procedure works in organic media. We have further improved this procedure by utilizing catalytic amount of Cr (VI) reagent and stoichiometric amount of periodic acid to regenerate Cr(VI) from Cr (III) to continue the reaction cycle. This procedure allows product isolation by a simple filtration, generates smaller amounts of solid waste, and safer to use. Results of our investigation will be presented at the meeting.
10:15-10:30 – Wednesday, Glenn Auditorium
Author: Jennifer N. Hanks
Title: Methods of Flanking Sequence Analysis Using Expressed Sequence Tags (ESTs) in Schizophyllum commune
Major: Biology
Course or Department in which work was conducted: Biology
Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Walt Lilly
Abstract: Schizophyllum commune is a wood-decaying basidiomycete that is found living on hardwood trees, such as oak. S. commune is a model system for understanding survival under nitrogen deprivation conditions, such as those found in wood. Two cDNA libraries, one for mycelia grown on high nitrogen and another for mycelia grown on low nitrogen are being sequenced as a part of an expressed sequence tag (EST) project. A library constructed of EST's only yields partial sequences of the genes from the organism. In order to fully understand the structure and role of the potentially differentially expressed genes it is necessary to obtain full length clones of the gene's ORF and additional upstream regulatory regions that are not represented in cDNA libraries. To solve this problem, a cosmid library containing all S. commune genomic DNA sequences was probed using a specific EST. The model EST chosen for the probe was 6hrm_21 and has been shown to code for a mitotic checkpoint protein similar to one found in yeast (BUB3).
10:30-10:45 – Wednesday, Glenn Auditorium
Author: Bradley Haynes
Title: Differences in Perceptions of Stress, Perceived Social Support, Social Network, and Disability Access and Support Between Those Born Physically Disabled and Those Who Became Disabled Later in Life
Major: Psychology
Course or Department in which work was conducted: Psychology
Faculty Sponsor: Dr Phillip Finney
Abstract: There have been numerous studies that have explored the relationship that people with disabilities have with their social environment. The current study builds on that research by looking at several ways people with disabilities react to and interact with their social environment. This study will specifically look at the way people who are born disabled react and interact differently from people who became disabled later in life as a result of illness or injury. The participants in the experimental groups were recruited from the Learning Enrichment Center at Southeast Missouri State University and The Southeast Missouri Alliance for Disability Independence. A control group was taken from the subject pool of the Psychology Department at Southeast Missouri State University. Four variables were assessed in this study. Frustration level was assessed by using the Perceived Stress Scale (PSS). The (PSS) is a ten item scale that asks the respondent to rate how he or she has been affected by different stressors over the last month. The second variable assessed was Perceived Social Support, and it was measured by using the Interpersonal Support Evaluation List (ISEL). This instrument consisted of forty items that asks the respondent to rate the level of social support he or she has. Using the Social Network Index allowed assessment of the third variable, Social Network. The Social Network Index contains thirteen questions relating to who the respondent spends time with on a regular basis. A fourth variable, perceptions of disability access and support,was assessed only for the two disabled groups. An instrument was constructed to assess this variable for the current study. The instrument asked participants to rate the quality of disability access and support that he or she receives from a variety of social networks they may be involved with. These may include academic, social, civil, or religious. Current data shows a trend toward significance. However, more data is being collected to improve the power of the statistical correlation.
11:00-11:15 – Wednesday, Glenn Auditorium
Author: Mary L. McCord
Title: How Private is Private With Gene Mapping
Major: Interdisciplinary
Course or Department in which work was conducted: Philosophy
Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Hamner Hill
Abstract: Now that the Human Genome Project has successfully deciphered the human genome, and now that our individual maps can be drawn, how can we protect the privacy of the information included in the genetic maps? If the privacy is not protected, discrimination from a variety of fields has the possibility of greatly influencing the lives of the very people whose genetic maps need to be protected. This will most assuredly have a negative impact on these people, and 'these people' could be any one of us. But it is also in our best interest to maintain the privacy of any and all genetic maps, for in every conceivable way it is a breach of our individual rights to make public the very data that so distinctly describes who we are. So how private is private with gene mapping? It is as private as we are willing to demand that it be made.
11:15-11:30 – Wednesday, Glenn Auditorium
Author: Dawn Michelle Ernst
Title: Progression of Women in Congress
Major: Political Science
Course or Department in which work was conducted: Political Science
Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Russell Renka
Abstract: Women have been struggling to achieve equality for centuries. They fought for work recognition, property rights, and equal representation. This battle is clearly apparent in our nation's most visual institution, the United States Congress. From Representative Jeanette Rankin a Republican from Montana in 1917 to the 107th Congress of 209 women, women have worked diligently to lessen the gender gap in legislation and through out the country. Grass roots movements that started in local and state governments blossomed to the federal level. Society was facing issues like equal rights, sexual discrimination, and affirmative action. Through the careers of Missouri lawmakers Representative Leonor Sullivan, Representative Karen McCarthy, Representative Jo Ann Emerson, and Senator Jean Carnahan, we can examine the changes in how the system has progressed to include women and how society itself has progressed over the years.
11:30-11:45 – Wednesday, Glenn Auditorium
Authors: Andrew F. Johnson and Leslee K. Pollina*
Title: Security of Attachment to People and Other Entities in Young Adulthood
Major: Psychology
Course or Department in which work was conducted: Psychology
Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Leslee K. Pollina
Abstract: The paper addresses the concepts of attachment theory and the secure base. The attempt of this experiment was to see if attachment relationships could exist with entities other than people. For example, could an attachment relationship exist with a pet or a location? Other possibilities are mentioned such as attachments to ideals or beliefs. The Method used to gather data were survey packets that were distributed with the intent of the student receiving extra credit for their participation. Participants were (155 undergraduate Southeast Student) consisting of 141 females, and 14 male. The survey packets were composed of three types of scales. A Relationship Scales Questionnaire, a 30-item questionnaire that was used to measure different attachment styles such as Secure, Dismissing, Preoccupied, and Fearful. Secondly, a Reciprocal Attachment Questionnaire, a 43-item questionnaire which assessed five dimensions of attachment (Angry Withdrawal, Compulsive Care Giving, Compulsive Self-Reliance, and Compulsive Care Seeking). Thirdly, an Avoidant Attachment Questionnaire, a 22-item questionnaire that was designed for use with people who consistently lacked an attachment relationship. Some questions were also asked in relation to use of attachment figures as a secure base, significant losses, and demographic questions. The results of this experiment showed that 79% of reported loss relationships had provided a sense of security. The most reported emotion after the loss was sadness. The most common loss was a relative (50%) followed by romantic relationships (29%). 15 participants mentioned the loss of a pet while 7 participants reported other losses (houses, etc.)None of the participants reported a belief or ideal as a loss. In conclusion, pets were mentioned as well as other losses like locations. However, more investigation is needed to conclude that an attachment relationship actually exists between people and other entities such as: pets, locations, and beliefs.
1:30-1:45 – Wednesday, Glenn Auditorium
Author: DeNekia Nicole Tucker
Title: Contagious Sniffing: Effects of Sniff Imitation and Stimulus Interest
Major: Psychology
Course or Department in which work was conducted: Psychology
Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Phillip Finney
Abstract: Monitoring the sniffs produced by six groups of subjects who were volunteers from lower-level psychology classes tested echo contagion. An unrevealed male confederate initiated sniffs during the sessions while the experimenter and an observer recorded the sniffs produced by the groups. Thirty-eight subjects were engaged in an uninteresting activity and 38 subjects were engaged in an interesting activity for a period of 16-minutes. The experiment was designed to address the hypotheses that subjects are more likely to sniff after they hear someone else sniff, and that the frequency of subject sniffs will be greater while they are engaged in an uninteresting activity as opposed to an interesting activity. There was no significant effect supporting the first hypothesis. However, a comparison of the group means showed that the subjects sniffed more when the confederate initiated the sniffs (see Figure 1). Statistical evidence did indicate that the frequency of subject sniffs was greater while the subjects were engaged in an uninteresting activity. These findings indicate that echo contagion did occur, and that echo contagion is more likely to occur when people are engaged in uninteresting activities.
1:45-2:00 – Wednesday, Glenn Auditorium
Author: Jason S. Alexander
Title: Temporally Controlled AC Power Supply
Major: Physics
Course or Department in which work was conducted: Physics
Faculty Sponsor: Dr. David Probst
Abstract: The purpose of this research was to design, construct, and characterize the operation of a temporally controlled AC power supply. After establishing the requisite operating points for minimum/maximum power output, signal duration, and cycle time, several designs were considered and implemented. It has been found that a design utilizing simple analog electronics and digital frequency down conversion of the standard U.S. 60 Hz AC line voltage works well for the specific user needs. Presented will be the design methodologies, construction, and characterization of the performance of the design.
2:00-2:15 – Wednesday, Glenn Auditorium
Author: Carlos W. DeJesus
Title: The Effects of an After School Mentoring Program on Sixth Grade At-Risk Students
Major: Criminal Justice
Course or Department in which work was conducted: Criminal Justice
Faculty Sponsor: Mrs. Linda Ferrell
Abstract: Transforming students from a disengaged to an active learner has long been a goal of American educators. Is it possible to attain true academic and personal success without incorporating active into the educational process? This paper is a descriptive overview of a 6th grade at-risk after school tutoring program. The program identified students who are academically “at-risk” and provided educational opportunities to become actively involved in improving their level of academic achievement. Data was collected from the 1999-2001 school years. The study utilized a repeated measures analysis to determine whether the program had a positive affect on the participant’s attitude, attendance and academic achievements.
2:30-2:45 – Wednesday, Glenn Auditorium
Authors: Jason S. Alexander and Joseph Paikeday*
Title: Polarization Potential for e-Argon Scattering by DCS Minimization at Intermediate Energies
Major: Physics
Course or Department in which work was conducted: Physics
Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Joseph Paikeday
Abstract: The differential scattering cross-section (DCS) for electrons scattered elastically by Argon atom is studied using a model potential. In the present study the long range polarization potential is represented by an energy-dependent function in the form: Vp(E,r) = ad/[ r + x(a,b,E)]4 and the short range part is constructed from the non-relativistic Hartree-Fock wave function of the target atom in the form Vs = (2Z/r)SkSn An Rn(r)exp(-Bkr). Accurate phase shifts have been computed for angular momentum in the range 0 < l <13 from the Schrodinger equation and the Born approximation for higher values of l < 1000. The computed differential cross-section obtained using the approximate effective interaction potential for electrons scattered by the target atom in its ground state is compared with available published results. In the present study the parameters contained in the energy-dependent polarization potential are determined by the minimization of the DCS with respect to angle q and the incident energy of E. The critical values of angle and energy (qc , Ec ) are found to be (64.1°, 41.3 eV), (140.1°, 37.3 eV), and (117.3°,120.5 eV) for Argon. The resulting DCS in the angular range 2° < q < 178° is found to be an improvement over earlier results and in excellent agreement with the available experimental data in the intermediate energy range.
2:45-3:00 – Wednesday, Glenn Auditorium
Authors: Brian Harris and Sarah Wright
Title: Conditional Discrimination Based on Either Memory or Position Cues
Major: Psychology
Course or Department in which work was conducted: Psychology
Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Richard Burns
Abstract: Problem or Major Purpose: In serial learning with rats, evidence once suggested that information could be processed in one of two ways. Past experiments have suggested that rats use item-memory learning (Capaldi and Miller, 2001). Other experiments (Burns, Kinney, and Criddle, 2000) suggest however, that rats use position-memory learning. A recent experiment conducted by Burns and Johnson (2001) suggests that in some instances item-memory seems to be used, while position-memory is used in other instances. The purpose of the present experiment was to directly study whether the same animals can learn both position cues in one context, and memory cues in another with control maintained by the conditional cue.
3:00-3:15 – Wednesday, Glenn Auditorium
Authors: Karen A. Lawrence and Rex Meade Strange*
Title: Evolution of Retinal Structure and Color Communication in Percid Fishes
Major: Biology
Course or Department in which work was conducted: Biology
Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Rex Meade Strange
Abstract: Darters (Teleostei: Percidae) are among the most colorful of North American fishes. The intensity of bright body coloration is most pronounced in males and under voluntary control. Color plays an important role in communicating aggression toward other males and courtship toward females and suggests that darters have the ability to detect color. We examined the phylogenetic distribution of retinal structure and color communication among twenty-four percid species in order to test the prediction that visual acuity evolved before body color. Bright body coloration is restricted to species of Etheostoma and is absent in Percina, Crystallaria, and the larger percids (Stezostedion and Perca). Visual acuity was estimated from neural summation, and is highest in Etheostoma and Perca regardless of body coloration, and lowest in Stizostedion and Perca. Crystallaria has an intermediate rate of summation and is the sister group of Etheostoma and Percina. These findings are consistent with the predictions of the sensory bias hypothesis. Preexisting high acuity retinal structures may have been a selective force in the evolution of exaggerated male coloration in darters.
3:30-3:45 – Wednesday, Glenn Auditorium
Author: Kathy L. Keller
Title: Intergenerational Aging-Education
Major: School Counseling
Course or Department in which work was conducted: Education, Administration & Counseling
Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Doris Skelton
Abstract: A pretest-posttest control group design was used to administer the CVOA (Children’s Views on Aging by Newman and Marks, l997), to 74 third- and fourth-grade students from two small, rural Southeast Missouri public schools in order to assess the content of their attitudes toward aging and older people before and after participating in an intergenerational aging-education program. The six-week intergenerational aging-education program consisted of a 45-minute session each week in which the children and older adult volunteers learned about the myths of aging and about strategies for successful aging. The researcher-designed curriculum included lessons about nutrition, exercise, lifelong learning, maintaining healthy relationships, community involvement and planning for career and leisure.
The purpose of the study was twofold: 1) to provide information about children’s cognitive, affective and conative attitudes toward aging and older persons, and 2) to assess the effect of an intergenerational aging-education intervention on the attitudes of children about aging and older persons. The researcher hypothesized that students who had participated in the intergenerational aging-education intervention would express more positive attitudes toward aging and older persons than students who had not participated in the intergenerational aging-education intervention. The goal of the program was to educate the children and adults who participated in the program about the myths of aging and about strategies for successful aging, thus increasing health and satisfaction throughout the lifespan as well as intergenerational understanding.
Data from the CVOA was analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics. The results of the pretest data generated from the CVOA revealed that students possessed mixed and multidimensional attitudes toward aging and older people. While children have realistic views of what an aging person looks like, they do not necessarily see the signs of aging (wrinkles and gray hair) as negative. Conatively, children expressed positive attitudes toward an older adult volunteer who might come to their classroom; however, they expressed stereotypically negative attitudes about the older adult’s motivations for coming to the classroom. These pretest results reflect the limited knowledge that children possess about what it is actually like to be an older person. The results also reflect stereotypical attitudes about the lives of older people.
In order to assess posttest results, within-subjects ANOVA and between-subjects MONOVA measures were conducted to analyze statistically significant differences in mean scores. The results revealed that positive gains in student attitudes toward aging and older people were statistically significant from the pretest time of assessment to the posttest time of assessment.
The implications of this study are that intergenerational aging-education programs are effective in changing stereotypically negative attitudes about aging and older persons to more positive attitudes. The researcher believes that the curriculum piloted in this study will help to fill a void in teacher/counselor ready-made materials available to conduct intergenerational aging-education programs. The researcher believes that aging education is necessary in order to replace the myth that old age is a time of passivity and unpleasantness with the reality that many older Americans are vitally connected and contributing members of society. The researcher believes that students need to understand how the lifestyle choices they make now and in the future will affect the quality of their lives as they grow older. And the researcher believes that students need to experience intergenerational programs to enhance intergenerational understanding.
3:45-4:00 – Wednesday, Glenn Auditorium
Authors: Wendy Decker and Jai Dahiya*
Title: The Effects of Rotation of a Sample in a Microwave Oven
Major: Physics and Chemistry
Course or Department in which work was conducted: Physics
Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Jai Dahiya
Abstract: Knowledge of the effect of rotation of a sample inside a microwave oven is essential to those scientists using microwave ovens in their research. In this experiment, the amount of microwave radiation incident on a sample in an operating microwave oven was studied. The incident radiation was measured indirectly by monitoring the temperature of the sample. The effects of rotation of the sample, depth of thermometer, and location of thermometers in the sample were analyzed. It was found that rotation of a sample in a microwave oven resulted in a higher temperature overall than the sample which was held stationary. Rotation of the sample also resulted in a more evenly heated sample than the stationary sample. It was concluded that the location and depth of the thermometers in the sample did not play a vital role in the temperature measured at that point.
4:00-4:15 – Wednesday, Glenn Auditorium
Authors: Beth Wuebbels and Phillip Crawford*
Title: Qualitative and Quantitative Analysis of Gunshot Residue from Different Brands of Ammunition by Anodic Stripping Voltametry
Major: Chemistry
Course or Department in which work was conducted: Chemistry
Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Phillip Crawford
Abstract: Aniodic stripping voltametry (ASV) was used to determine the amounts of lead, copper and antimony from swabs of different brands of gun shell casings. This is useful to law enforcement agencies and in forensic chemistry in order to determine the presence of lead, copper, and antimony found in gunshot residue in criminal cases. ASV is an important electrochemical technique that is used in detecting elements in trace amounts. The voltammogram provides an elemental pattern based on current and potential which is used to measure the small amounts of lead, copper and antimony present. The concentrations of these elements present in the solution were determined by the standard addition method. This study shows the usefulness of ASV in determining the amounts of metals present in gun shell casings and with further experimentation it may be possible to determine which brand of ammunition a sample of residue came from based on the pattern and amount of elements present.
4:15-4:30 – Wednesday, Glenn Auditorium
Authors: Aman Anand, Pankaj Choudhary, and Jai N. Dahiya*
Title: Distribution of Heat in a Sample of Distilled Water Placed Inside a Microwave Oven
Major: Pharmacy
Course or Department in which work was conducted: Physics
Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Jai Dahiya
Abstract: A theoretical and experimental investigation of recent microwave heating experiments of water in air and within the microwave oven is presented. A large amount of discontinuity in the measured temperature is observed. The microwave power is mostly absorbed in a narrow, localized region that is moving radially outward as a propagating heat wave. It is assumed that this behavior is caused by the anomaly in the temperature dependence of the permittivity of water, and the experiment verifies this assumption. This phenomenon is carried out under strict observations and full care is taken for prevention of heat loss. Four different designs are used to carry out this experiment. All of these designs have been shown in full detail of the paper. It was found that the heat distribution within the microwave oven was non-uniform, this experiment has been in continuation of the previous one in which we used some cheese pie to measure the heat distribution. This time the sample being used is water, which has a high dielectric constant, and so it is making our hypothesis more and more affirmative.
11:00-11:15 – Thursday, Glenn Auditorium
Authors: Adelaide E.Beiser, Amber L. Swain, Sam A. Buchanan, Martha A. Huck, and Mike Crosland*
Title: Comparison of Molecular Divergence Among Reticulitermes Populations
Major: Biology, Chemistry
Course or Department in which work was conducted: Biology
Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Mike Crosland
Abstract: The purpose of this project is to compare molecular differences among Reticulitermes populations by sequencing the mitochondrial DNA of several colonies. Since all termites from one colony are produced from the same queen, all termites from a particular colony will have the same mitochondrial DNA. In the early spring months flying termites, alates, are produced. Since all workers and soldiers of every species of Reticulitermes look similar, the alates are used in morphological differentiation between species. Through the use of techniques such as DNA extraction and purification, PCR, TA Cloning, and Plasmid Prep we were able to prepare our samples for sequencing. Currently, we are working towards mastering techniques and repeating processes for newly acquired samples in order to obtain a better catalog of information concerning species of Reticulitermes.
11:15-11:30 – Thursday, Glenn Auditorium
Author: Rebecca M. Klazynski
Title: The Misconception Regarding Cognitive Impairments Associated with Parkinson’s Disease
Major: Communication Disorders
Course or Department in which work was conducted: Communication Disorders
Faculty Sponsor: Mrs. Martha Cook
Abstract: Research indicates that the prevalence of dementia in Parkinson's disease is between 15 and 30 percent. The inclination is to believe that there is a higher percentage of dementia correlated with Parkinson's disease due to a phenomenon known as "spread." This is a tendency to believe that a physical problem such as a speech impediment indicates cognitive impairment. Three studies are discussed that provide a clear definition of dementia and the implications related to Parkinson's disease. A personal story is presented to illustrate the effects of the misconception of the role of dementia in Parkinson's disease. The final conclusion is that based on the research, more people with Parkinson's disease do not demonstrate cognitive impairments compared to those who do. Therefore, the person with Parkinson's disease should not be penalized for his diagnosis based on this misconception.
11:30-11:45 – Thursday, Glenn Auditorium
Authors: Lucy J. Thurston and Mohammed Ali*
Title: Dehydration of Aldoximes to Nitriles Utilizing 2-Chloro-N-Methyl Pyridinium Iodide (Mukaiyama Reagent)
Major: Chemistry
Course or Department in which work was conducted: Chemistry
Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Mohammed Ali
Abstract: Dehydration of aldoxomes to nitriles can be accomplished utilizing a number of dehydrating agents. Many of these procedures employ reagent that need extra care to prepare or use. 2-Chloro-N-methyl pyridinium iodide, known as Mukayama reagent, has been used to activate carboxylic acids towards condensation reactions in another word used as a coupling reagent. We have recently found that this reagent can also be utilized as a dehydration agent in the conversion of aldoximes to nitriles. The procedure we have developed is simple, efficient, and mild. Results of our investigation will be presented at the meeting.
11:45-12:00 – Thursday, Glenn Auditorium
Authors: Marisa Banasik and Scott Lucchese
Title: Identification of Differentially Expressed Genes in Schizophyllum commune
Major: Chemistry, Biology
Course or Department in which work was conducted: Biology
Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Allen Gathman
Abstract: Expressed sequence tags (EST) are short DNA sequences that are expressed in an organism under specific conditions. The cDNAs are made by extracting mRNA from cells, and then reverse transcribing them into complementary DNA molecules. EST libraries constructed from organisms under different conditions reflecting the organism's response to the different environments. The EST project at Southeast has concentrated on the fungus Schizophyllum commune and the EST's generated in response to differing nutritional conditions. When S. commune is grown in an environment poor in nitrogen, it recycles nitrogen by cannibalizing amino acids from proteins in older cells, and transporting the amino acids to the apices of the cell colony. Determining the mechanism for this nitrogen recycling reaction is a primary goal of our research. During the EST project, three cDNA libraries were constructed. These libraries were prepared from one sample of S. commune grown under high nitrogen conditions and two samples of S. commune grown under low nitrogen conditions for either 6 or 12 hours. The current project attempted to identify genes that are expressed at higher levels under low nitrogen conditions using the reverse Northern blotting technique. The cDNA samples were attached to Hybond H+ membrane using a slot blotter. Probes were made from mRNA extracted from mycelia grown under different nitrogen concentration conditions. Reverse transcriptase was used to make DNA sequences complementary to the extracted mRNAs. These sequences were tagged with radioactive nucleotides. The radioactive cDNAs were then allowed to hybridize with the DNA sequences on the membrane. Areas with radiolabeled nucleotides present exposed photographic film, and the amount of exposure was measured with a densitometer. We were then able to determine to what degree the candidate sequences from the EST libraries were being expressed in the mycelia under the low nitrogen conditions. The process has proven to be a very fast method for measuring the expression of a large number of DNA sequences at one time. We have made three membranes to date, and have probed each of them with RNA extracted from S. commune grown under the three nitrogen availability conditions. So far we have identified seven genes that appear to be expressed at higher levels under nitrogen limited conditions.
12:00-12:15 – Thursday, Glenn Auditorium
Authors: Brandon H. Blattel and Travis J. Stevens
Title: The Effects of Osmocote and Water Soluable Fertilizers on Petunia Production
Major: Horticulture
Course or Department in which work was conducted: Agriculture
Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Derald Harp
Abstract: Bedding plant production has developed into a thriving industry in Southeast Missouri. Petunias are a popular selection of bedding plants. The most limiting factor is the effectiveness of fertilizer. Water soluable fertilizers must be mixed and maintained throughout a production schedule, and may require expensive injection systems. The purpose of our experiment is to determine if the incorporation of osmocote (a slow release fertilizer)into the media would help lower the input required from water soluable fertilizers. Petunias were grown in four groups planted as seeds and four groups planted as plugs; group 1. no fertilizer(control); group 2. Water soluable; group 3. Controlled release, and water soluable fertilizer; and group 4 was grown in just a water soluabe fertilizer solution. The plants are being monitored and the effects of the different fertilizer techniques are also being monitored closely in order to determine the positive or negative effects the osmocote will have on Petunia production.
1:00-1:20 – Thursday, Glenn Auditorium
Authors: Travis Partney, Caroline Mueller, and Carmen Montes
Title: Efforts to Combat Terrorism Should not be Expanded
Major: Philosophy, Economics & Political Science, and English
Course or Department in which work was conducted: Communication
Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Larry Underberg
Abstract: This panel will address the question “Should the United States expand its efforts to prevent terrorism?” The presenters will argue that U.S. efforts should not be expanded showing that: military policy is a cause of terrorism, and the war on terrorism must not come at the expense of civil rights. Travis Partney will argue that the war on terrorism should not come at the expense of civil rights. Caroline Mueller and Carmen Montes will argue that U.S. foreign policy should be demilitarized. The dominant method of research is historical critical however, because this is a panel that utilizes a debate format. The process of discoveries is aided through a direct comparison of possible affirmatives.
1:20-1:40 – Thursday, Glenn Auditorium
Authors: Taffi Schurz, Myia Wood, and Sara Schmidt
Title: Efforts to Combat Terrorism Should be Expanded
Major: Business Management, Political Science, and English/Secondary Education
Course or Department in which work was conducted: Communication
Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Larry Underberg
Abstract: This panel will address the question “Should the United States expand its efforts to prevent terrorism?” Taffi Schurz will argue that U.S. efforts should be expanded through: improvement in intelligence gathering capabilities, and greater readiness response to chemical and biological attack. Myia Wood and Sara Schmidt will argue that we should expand our defense for biological terrorism. The dominant method of research is historical critical however, because this is a panel utilizes a debate format. The process of discoveries is aided through a direct comparison of possible affirmatives.
Poster Abstracts, In Order of Appearance
9:05-9:10 – Wednesday, Glenn Auditorium Hallway
Authors: Mindy Hoffman, Melanie Kozak, and Nathalie Pogue
Title: The Formation of an Aromatic Diene from Benzyl Aldehyde
Major: Biology, Chemistry
Course or Department in which work was conducted: Chemistry
Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Bruce Hathaway
Abstract: Aromatics are present in everyday life as scents in numerous products. As the end result of a three-step synthesis (which included a reduction and a carbon-carbon bond formation), benzyl aldehyde was first reduced to benzyl alcohol through the use of sodium borohydride. The benzyl alcohol was then treated with hydrobromic acid with a sulfuric acid catalyst to form benzyl bromide. This noxious benzyl halide in turn was combined with triphenylphosphonium to yield benzyltriphenylphosphonium bromide. At this point, different aromatics were formed through a Wittig reaction from the benzyltriphenylphosphonium bromide. The aromatics that formed from benzyltriphenylphosphonium bromide were formed from the addition of 1-naphthaldehyde, p-anisaldehyde, and 4-ethylbenzyaldehyde. The diene formed from p-anisaldehyde created a solid crystalline after purification with 95% ethanol, while the aromatics of the combination of benzyltriphenylphosphonium bromide and 1-naphthaldehyde and the combination of benzyltriphenylphosphonium bromide and 4-ethylbenzylaldehyde are still in the process of being purified, albeit through diverse methods due to different properties. The scents of all aromatics produced are to be determined after recrystallization and following purification.
9:10-9:15 – Wednesday, Glenn Auditorium Hallway
Authors: Roxann Weix, Curtis Jansen, and Martha Huck
Title: Multistep Synthesis of Cyclopentanol, Cyclopentaindole, and Various Aldol Products from Cyclohexanol
Major: Biology
Course or Department in which work was conducted: Chemistry
Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Hathaway
Abstract:This experiment involved three separate synthetic steps beginning with cyclohexanol. The final product from each step became a reactant for the next step. Our group, consisting of Curtis Jansen, Roxann Weix, and Martha Huck each completed the same first two steps. Each member did a different third step to make different products. The products were cyclopentanol, cyclopentaindole, and various aldol products, respectively. The first step was the oxidation of cyclohexanol. This step opened the six-member ring, to form adipic acid. It was performed by heating cyclohexanol with nitric acid. Adipic acid precipitated from the reaction solution and was vacuum filtered off. The second step was the conversion of adipic acid to cyclopentanone. A mixture of adipic acid and barium hydroxide was distilled together. The adipic acid was
cyclized to cyclopentanone, and carbon dioxide gas was given off. Cyclopentanone was separated out of the distillate and was purified. Group member Curtis Jansen reduced cyclopentanone to cyclopentanol for his third synthetic step. This reaction was performed by the addition of cyclopentanone to sodium borohydride in dilute aqueous sodium hydroxide. The final product, cyclopentanol, was separated from solution and purified. Group member Roxann Weix added cyclopentanone to an indole for her third step. First, cyclopentanone phenylhydrazone was formed by reacting cyclopentanone with phenylhydrazine. Then the cyclopentanone phenylhydrazone was cyclized to cyclopentaindole, using polyphosphoric acid as a catalyst. Group member Martha Huck performed three different aldol condensation reactions on cyclopentanone to make three different products. For each condensation reaction, a different aldehyde, along with barium hydroxide, were reacted with cyclopentanone in ethanol. The products formed were, 2,5-Dibenzylidene cyclopentanone, 2,5-Di-(4-methyl benzylidene) cyclopentanone and 2,5-Di-(4-methoxybenzlidene) cyclopentanone.
9:15-9:20 – Wednesday, Glenn Auditorium Hallway
Authors: Joseph D. Romine and Dr. Lucinda Swatzell*
Title: Characterization of Cytoskeletal Proteins in the Negatively Phototropic Gametophyte of Schizaea pusilla
Major: Biology
Course or Department in which work was conducted: Biology
Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Lucinda Swatzell
Abstract: Schizaea pusilla is a rare fern that, in North America, inhabits acid bogs of New Jersey, Nova Scotia, and Newfoundland. The gametophytes are initially negatively phototrophic (grow away from the light), but become positively phototrophic (grow toward the light) at a later stage in development. For positively phototrophic plants, the cytoskeleton provides orientation and stability for growth and development, but the cytoskeleton in this negatively phototrophic fern is uncharacterized. In this study, we characterized the cytoskeletal elements of Schizaea pusilla gametophytes in the early negatively phototrophic stage using immunoblotting techniques. We found that cytoskeletal proteins in the negatively phototrophic gametophytes of Schizaea pusilla are present and similar in molecular weight to that of most other positively phototrophic higher plant species.
9:20-9:25 – Wednesday, Glenn Auditorium Hallway
Author: Nathan Tuschhoff
Title: Service Learning: Working to Aid Others
Major: Criminal Justice
Course or Department in which work was conducted: Criminal Justice
Faculty Sponsor: Mrs. Linda Ferrell
Abstract: Service learning combines academic study with community service by engaging in experiences that require structured reflections. Service learning continues to grow at a time when educators and schools are increasingly being held more accountable for their work; budgets are shrinking, and a wide range of education reform efforts are being explored. This paper is an evaluation of a service learning project conducted at an area church. It will examine how and what role service learning can play in achieving the goals of education reform.
1:30–1:35 – Wednesday, Glenn Auditorium Hallway
Authors: Eric Wittenauer and Erica Paisley
Title: The Prince William Sound (Good Friday) Earthquake of 1964
Major: Economics and Sports Management and Social Work
Course or Department in which work was conducted: Science
Faculty Sponsor: Ms. Heather Seabaugh
Abstract: The Good Friday Earthquake of 1964 is the strongest ever recorded on the North American continent and the second largest in the world. On March 28, 1964 the Yukatat block (annually shifting 5-7cm/ year) of the Pacific Plate which is subducting beneath the North American Plate along the Aleutian Trench experienced a rupture with a focus at a depth of 23km. At 3:36 UTC on the 28th (5:36 on the 27th local time) of March, this energy release began beneath Prince William Sound (61.1N 147.5W) and propagated to the southwest. The average ensuing fault slip measured 18m with a 3 degree dip. The seismic waves radiating away from the focus registered Richter magnitudes of 8.4-8.6, Mw (moment magnitude) of 9.2, and a Modified Mercalli Intensity of XI. This Aleutian-Alaska megathrust zone’s shift resulted in a 125-person death toll. Tsunamis- both regional (caused by tectonic uplift) and local (caused by landslides into fiords and bays)- were the main cause of the devastation and over 90% of the deaths. Moving 450mph and over 67m high, the tsunamis affected water levels as far away as South Africa. Four minutes of shaking resulted $311 million (1964 dollars) in damage, measurements of damage as high as XI on the Modified Mercalli Intensity Scale, vertical displacement over 520,000 sq. km, and an aftershock zone measuring 250km wide (20 of which were measured to be 6 or higher on the Richter scale within three weeks of the 28th) and lasting over one year.
1:35-1:40 – Wednesday, Glenn Auditorium Hallway
Authors: Marla Dial, Terra Wineman, and Uriah Kilgore
Title: The Synthesis of Cyclopentanone Using Oxidation of Cyclohexanol to Adipic Acid and Cyclization of Adipic Acid to Cyclopentanone Followed by Using Cyclopentanone to Make Various Organic Compounds
Major: Chemistry/Pre-Medical and Biomedical
Course or Department in which work was conducted: CH344
Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Hathaway
Abstract: In general, the first reaction we performed was the oxidation of cyclohexanol to adipic acid. We added the cyclohexanol to hot nitric acid. Next, we cooled and recrystallized the solution in order to collect the adipic acid crystals by vacuum filtration.
The following step was the cyclization of adipic acid to cyclopentanone. We performed this by adding a catalytic amount of barium hydroxide to the adipic acid crystals. We heated and distilled the solid. After which we salted out the cyclopentanone using saturated aqueous sodium chloride.
The authors carried out separate third steps using the cyclopentanone. The first we will discuss is Marla Dial’s reaction. She added sodium borohydride, sodium hydroxide, and sodium chloride to the cyclopentanone. Then the solution was neutralized and the product, cyclopentanol, was extracted from the aqueous layer and dried. Terra Wineman performed the next reaction with cyclopentanone. She did a Grignard reaction using phenylmagnesium bromide to make 1-phenylcyclopentanol-1. This reaction was done in an Erlenmeyer flask with anhydrous ethyl ether as a solvent and refluxed. After which hydrochloric acid was added. The various drying procedures were done then the final product was collect by vacuum filtration. Uriah Kilgore converted his cyclopentanone into various Aldol products using the Aldol Condensation reaction.
We confirmed all of our products with IR and NMR spectra. We compared our melting points/boiling points with literature values in order to correctly identify our products and to assess their respective purities.
1:40-1:45 – Wednesday, Glenn Auditorium Hallway
Authors: Beth Wuebbels, Saira Kahn, and Jessica Broyles
Title: Formation of Butadienes from Various Phosphonium Salts and the Reduction of these Butadiene Products by Hydrogenation
Major: Chemistry, Pre-med, Biology, and Biomedical Sciences
Course or Department in which work was conducted: Chemistry
Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Hathaway
Abstract: This experiment was used to test different phosphonium salts to see if they would react to form butadienes by the Wittig synthesis reaction. This experiment was based on the idea that the Wittig Synthesis is very versatile and allows you to construct larger molecules from smaller ones by forming carbon-carbon double bonds. It also allows you to place the double bond where you want it as opposed to a dehydration reaction. The principle for this experiment involves carrying out the Wittig Synthesis under identical conditions, but changing the phosphonium salts from the usual benzyl triphenyl phosphonium salt. This resulted in the formation of different butadienes, which were then reduced by a hydrogenation reaction. The results of the Wittig Synthesis showed that it is possible to carry out this reaction on different salts and still obtained the desired product of the butadiene. The hydrogenation reaction proved to reduce the butadienes. The results of this experiment also suggested that further testing with more phosphonium salts would provide insight and details into the versatility of the Wittig Synthesis.
1:45-1:50 – Wednesday, Glenn Auditorium Hallway
Authors: Nathan Huck, Kari Del Vecchio, and Tasha Ware
Title: A Multistep Synthesis of Jet Fuel Intermediates from Cyclic Ketones
Major: Biology, Chemistry, and Interdisciplinary
Course or Department in which work was conducted: Chemistry
Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Bruce Hathaway
Abstract: In this investigation, we have prepared variations of common jet fuel through a multistep synthesis using cyclic ketones as a starting material. Three group members utilized cyclopentanone, cyclohexanone, and cycloheptanone as their respective starting materials. Each member performed essentially the same reaction scheme. Samples of reaction products from each step were subjected to spectral analysis to verify the presence and purity of desired products. These analysis included Nuclear Magnetic Resonance spectroscopy, as well as Infrared spectroscopy.
3:30-3:35 – Wednesday, Glenn Auditorium Hallway
Authors: Michael Walls and Kelli McFarland
Title: Initial Experiments to Demonstrate Functional Complementation of Yeast Mutations with Genes from Schizophyllum commune
Major: Biology
Course or Department in which work was conducted: Biology
Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Walt Lilly
Abstract: Schizophyllum commune is a model system for studying gene expression and function in filamentous fungi. Unequivocal demonstration of the function of Schizophyllum commune gene products can be done by using a clone of the gene to complement (or replace) a defective gene in another organism. The objective of this study was to demonstrate that there was a functionally homologous gene from S. commune that could be inserted into ump1D mutant S. cerevisiae cells to complement the deficiency of the mutant yeast cells. The UMP1 gene codes for a proteasome maturation factor. Proteasome maturation factor is required for a functional proteasome. If defective, cells cannot destroy misfolded proteins. This reduces the apparent concentration of functional proteins leading to cell death. A putative S. commune UMP1 gene was obtained from a pBluescript plasmid, in which it was previously cloned by members of our lab. The gene was removed from pBluescript utilizing a double digest method with the restriction enzymes EcoR1 and Xho1. The gene was then ligated into a similarly digested YEP vector, which contains a yeast promoter. The recombinant plasmid was then sequenced to ensure that proper insertion occurred. Parallel experiments to establish the use of Saccharomyces cerevisiae in our lab, and todemonstrate the tractability of standard yeast transformation protocols were also done.
1:50-1:55 – Wednesday, Glenn Auditorium Hallway
Authors: Bo Andel, Brian Privett, and Joe Toney
Title: The Headaches of Friedel-Crafts Acylation
Major: Pre-chiropractic, pre-medical
Course or Department in which work was conducted: Chemistry
Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Muhammed Ali
Abstract: The purpose of the experiment was to create analogs of ibuprofen by using a Friedel-Crafts Acylation and several other reactions. One set of reactions involved a Friedel-Crafts Acylation of isobutylbenzene, followed by a Grignard reaction, elimination reaction, hydroboration, and finally an oxidation. This set of reactions produced ibuprofen. Another set of reaction was carried out starting with a Friedel-Crafts Acylation of anisole, followed by hydroboration, and finally a dehydration to produce 4-methoxystyrene. Other steps could be followed to produce an ibuprofen analog from 4-methoxystyrene. A third set of reactions was carried out also by starting with a Friedel-Crafts Acylation of anisole, then followed by a Willgerodt-Kindler Reaction. The first set of reactions successfully produced ibuprofen with a low yield. The second set of reactions produced 4-methoxystyrene successfully. The third set of reactions proved not to be a successful method of producing an ibuprofen analog, although the Friedel-Craft Acylation was successful.
3:35-3:40 – Wednesday, Glenn Auditorium Hallway
Author: Melissa A. Dooley
Title: Porosity and Specific Retention of Emminence-Potosi Limestone from Cheilanthes feei Habitat
Major: Biology
Course or Department in which work was conducted: Biology
Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Lucinda J. Swatzell
Abstract: Cheilanthes feei, a xerophytic fern, is commonly found occupying limestone bluffs in Southeast Missouri. Its known range encompasses southwestern Canada, extends south to north central Mexico, and east to the Ohio and Mississippi River valleys of the Midwestern United States. Although C. feei has a broad distribution, it inhabits a very narrow niche, one-half to one meter from the bluff tops, often in full sun. Data from previous research indicate that C.feei protonemata exhibit a marked decrease in maturation and viability as moisture levels of the supporting growth media increase. We hypothesized that moisture levels present in the limestone are approximately those required by growing C.feei protonemata in order for their development to continue to maturity. Rock samples were taken from three sites in southeastern Missouri, one set from a protected biological station, another set from a privately owned site along a paved suburban road, and another from a publicly accessible ridge overhanging a boating access to a riverway. Rock samples were tested using standard hydrogeological formulas for specific retention and porosity. Our data indicated that, while there was no significant difference in the sample rocks taken from sites containing C. feei and those nearby sites where the fern was not present, the porosity and specific retention of limestone would provide approximately the amounts of moisture required by protonemata to thrive. .This evidence supports our hypothesis that the habitat restrictions of C. feei may be due in part to the water requirements of the protonemata.
3:40-3:45 – Wednesday, Glenn Auditorium Hallway
Author: Sarah Buerck
Title: A Career Counseling Project for Middle School Students, Grades Six-Eight
Major: School Counseling
Course or Department in which work was conducted: Educcation, Administration & Counseling
Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Julietta Monteiro-Leitner
Abstract: This project is based on the premise that a high level of self-efficacy in adolescence will result in an equally high level of self-efficacy later in life, in terms of a career selection and job satisfaction. Thus, its purpose is to introduce middle school students to the idea of self-efficacy along with the opportunity to explore their own values and career interests. This project could be used with all classes within the middle school with groups with ages ranging from about 11 to 14 years old. It covers a nine-week period with each group meeting for approximately 1 hour per week. In each session group members will enhance the idea of self-efficacy, take a close look at personal ability and career interests, and relate self-efficacy to the world of work and success.
9:35-9:40 – Thursday, Glenn Auditorium Hallway
Authors: Laura Meyer and Wendy Decker
Title: Telescope Resolution: A Measurement of Diffraction Effects
Major: Physics and Chemistry
Course or Department in which work was conducted: Physics
Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Margaret Hill
Abstract: Using a 5-inch Schmitt-Cassegrain, two light sources and a ball bearing as a reflective surface, we determined that the optics were diffraction limited according to Rayleigh’s criterion and Dawes’ limit. Rayleigh’s criterion is the minimum resolvable angular separation or angular limit of resolution. The Rayleigh criterion was measured to be 4.940x10-6 radians. This is within 6.5% of the theoretical value of 5.28x10-6 radians. The Dawes limit is an empirical method used to determine the minimum angular distance between two stars in order to separately resolve them. The Dawes limit was measured to be 1.02 arc sec. This is within 11.8% of the theoretical value of .912 arc sec. We believe that besides the errors associated with the procedures for each technique, these techniques show that the optics in the telescope are diffraction limited.
9:40-9:45 – Thursday, Glenn Auditorium Hallway
Authors: Tommy O’Donnell and Maureen Shea
Title:A Field Experience with Project Charlie: A Primary Drug Abuse Prevention Program
Major: Criminal Justice
Course or Department in which work was conducted: Criminal Justice
Faculty Sponsor: Mrs. Linda Ferrell
Abstract: This paper presents in poster format the initial findings about the effectiveness of a twelve-week program presented to second grade students in area schools. Project Charlie is a nationally recognized drug abuse prevention program that focuses on building self-esteem, improving relationships and developing decision-making skills. These areas of learning are the basis of primary drug abuse prevention. Participant, program and outcome data for the program are discussed.
9:45-9:50 – Thursday, Glenn Auditorium Hallway
Authors: Wendy Decker, Laura Meyer, and Dr. Margaret Hill*
Title: Measuring the Index of Refraction of Glass Using a Michelson Interferometer
Major: Physics and Chemistry
Course or Department in which work was conducted: Physics
Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Margaret Hill
Abstract: The index of refraction of a glass was measured using a Michelson Interferometer. The equation used to calculate the index of refraction of glass was derived from first principles. Measurements were taken at several angles, 5 degrees, 8 degrees, and 10 degrees. The index of refraction of glass was calculated for each measurement and the results compared. For 5 degrees of rotation, the index of refraction of the glass plate was found to be 1.54. For 8 degrees of rotation, the index of refraction of the glass plate was found to be 1.48. For 10 degrees of rotation, the index of refraction of the glass plate was found to be 1.50. The average value of the index of refraction of glass for the glass plate measured was found to be 1.511. The calculated value was compared to the theoretical value of 1.51. The percent difference was calculated to be 0.06%, which agrees quite nicely.