College of Arts & Sciences: Celebrations of Scholarship

Exploring the Role of Trace Metals in Protein Aggregation in a Yeast Model of Alzheimer's Disease

LTSC001

8-8:20 a.m.

Presenter(s):

Erin Powell

Faculty Sponsor(s):

Dr. Jenna Smith

Abstract/Description:

Protein aggregation is a hallmark of many neurodegenerative diseases, like Alzheimer's disease. This study investigates the effects of zinc on protein aggregation in yeast. The plates used had a varying range of zinc concentrations added to them. To test the effect of zinc on the protein aggregation a set of spot assays were done and an overnight growth process. The number of colonies and color of colonies were recorded for each set of plates. This study provides insights into trace metals and their effects on protein aggregation.

Comparing Antibiotic Production by Bacteria from Soil Samples in Central Illinois in Samples Taken in the Summer and Winter

LTSC001

8:20-8:40 a.m.

Presenter(s):

Sophia Gibbs

Faculty Sponsor(s):

Dr. Jenna Smith

Abstract/Description:

Bacteria were isolated from a soil sample gathered in Decatur, Illinois, in June 2023 and January 2024. The bacteria were grown on these plates: tryptic soy agar, Mueller-Hinton agar, DNAse test agar, and mannitol salt agar. Twelve isolates from each plate were chosen to test. New plates were created with a lawn of lab safe bacterial species, and the soil bacteria swabbed on top, to test for antibiotic production.Nine isolates were chosen to continue testing that all showed antibiotic production. The DNA of those isolates was sent off to an outside lab to be sequenced, and returned to classify each bacterium.

Metamorphosis-Related Changes in Immune Investment of Cuban Tree Frogs (Osteopilus Septentrionalis)

LTSC001

8:40-9 a.m.

Presenter(s):

Emma Carr

Faculty Sponsor(s):

Dr. Travis Wilcoxen

Abstract/Description:

Metamorphosis is the process in which frogs undergo during development. Frogs will absorb their tail and start developing hind legs. This research studied the immune response before and after tail absorption in Cuban Tree Frogs. Samples of blood were obtained and blood smears were made from 25 tadpoles with tails and 25 tadpoles with absorbed tails. Fifty fields of view of each slide were examined and white blood cells were counted. An ELISA was run on all 50 blood samples to analyze antibody concentration. Overall, the immune investment of frogs can be compared between the two stages of metamorphosis.

Tradeoffs In Reproduction, Body Condition, and Immune Defense In Breeding And Non-Breeding Northern Cardinals (Cardinalis Cardinalis)

LTSC001

9-9:20 a.m.

Presenter(s):

Aleyda McPherson

Faculty Sponsor(s):

Dr. Travis Wilcoxen

Abstract/Description:

We examined tradeoffs in immunity and reproductive investment in Northern Cardinals during the breeding season and seasonal differences in immune/body condition relationships. We measured cloacal protuberances of breeding male cardinals and brood patches on breeding female cardinals, collected other morphometrics, and took blood samples from each bird. From blood samples, we completed a bacterial killing assay for breeding birds and made blood smears in the field, staining them, and counting the number of white blood cells (WBC) within 50 fields of view using oil immersion, to compare immune investment across seasons.

Different Land Use Practices Effects on White Blood Cell & IgM Counts along with Seasonal Differences in IgM Counts in Stream Fish in Macon County, Illinois

LTSC001

9:20-9:40 a.m.

Presenter(s):

Chase Travis

Faculty Sponsor(s):

Dr. Travis Wilcoxen

Abstract/Description:

This study looks at the white blood cell and IgM counts of different habitat types as well as the seasonal effects of IgM counts in fish. It was hypothesized that the fish collected from protected sites will have lower amounts of WBCs and IgM than those collected from agricultural and urban locations. Also, fish in the summer will have lower IgM levels than in the fall. The results showed increased numbers of WBCs in agricultural and protected sites compared to urban sites. Also, higher amounts of IgM in the fall and agricultural sites than in the other two sites.

Immune Costs of Tail Damage and Regeneration in Cuban Treefrog (Osteopilus Septentrionalis) Tadpoles

LTSC001

10-10:20 a.m.

Presenter(s):

Haylee Yelle

Faculty Sponsor(s):

Dr. Travis Wilcoxen

Abstract/Description:

With the use of tadpoles, we cut off the tails and observed their white blood cell counts post regeneration. With this experiment, we were looking for any correlation between injuries and immune deficiencies post recovery.

Analyzing the Effect and Rate of Fatigue in Non-Dominant and Dominant Arms Through Grip Strength

LTSC001

10:20-10:40 a.m.

Presenter(s):

Landon Hullinger

Faculty Sponsor(s):

Dr. Jennifer Schroeder

Abstract/Description:

This presentation is revealing the analysis of the effect and rate of fatigue in non-dominant and dominant arms through grip strength, on which I conducted research on students at Millikin through different tests and grip strength activities.

Molecular Mechanisms of Cry Toxin Toxicity in Drosophila Melanogaster: Characterizing Variability in Bacillus Thuringiensis Strains and Their Insecticidal Activity

LTSC001

10:40-11 a.m.

Presenter(s):

Carly Ward

Faculty Sponsor(s):

Dr. Samuel Galewsky

Abstract/Description:

In this Biology research project, we characterized different strains of Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) from soil samples by polymerase chain reactions and gel electrophoresis. Additionally, we studied the molecular mechanisms of crystalline (cry) protein toxins in Bt by using Drosophila melanogaster and developed a bioassay. Lastly, we created a lethality test to measure the level of toxicity of cry genes and the survival of fruit flies.

A Look Into Prescribed Burning of Prairie Fields and the Effects It Has on the Amount of Certain Mycorrhizal Fungi

LTSC001

11-11:20 a.m.

Presenter(s):

Hope Moore

Faculty Sponsor(s):

Dr. Alicia Knudson

Abstract/Description:

In this project, I looked at how prescribed burning of a prairie field obtained by the Macon County Conservation District affected the amount of mycorrhizal fungi in the soil collected. Soil was collected before the burn, right after the burn, and then two weeks after the burn. To determine any of the fungal species found, PCR and microscopy methods were used. 

A Land of Milk and Honey: Imperialism, Capitalism, and Bees in the Early Modern Atlantic

SH412

9-9:30 a.m.

Presenter(s):

Jackson Hughes

Faculty Sponsor(s):

Dr. Julie Bates

Abstract/Description:

My paper focuses on the role of honeybees in the colonization of the Americas and draws parallels to the modern day agro-industrial usage of honeybees as mass pollinators and the resulting environmental harm. It also provides an alternative example of bee conservation in the recovery and success of stingless beekeeping in Mexico.

MilliConnect: A Guide to All Things Millikin

SH412

9:30-10 a.m.

Presenter(s):

Olivia Swords, Tabitha Barowsky, Eden Niebrugge, Rochelle Pense

Faculty Sponsor(s):

Dr. Julie Bates

Abstract/Description:

MilliConnect serves as a guide for new students to provide an accurate and accessible representation of Millikin through the eyes of the fall 2024 English Capstone class. The articles in the publication represent many different perspectives and identities. The Guide features sections on History, All About Campus, Future Preparedness, Personal Well-Being, and Millikin Off-Campus. The students in the capstone class created the concept for the Guide and also wrote, edited, photographed, and designed the publication. In this presentation, students will discuss the process of creating the Guide from start to finish and will showcase their favorite articles.

Environmental Studies Majors Present on Their Research or Internship Experience

SH315

1-2 p.m.

Presenter(s):

Laura Akimana, Christina Anderson, Emily Vuglar

Faculty Sponsor(s):

Roslyn O’Conner

Abstract/Description:

Topics include: Water Management Strategies for Millikin University, An Eco-Friendly Campus Plan for Millikin University, Approaches to Decreasing Plastic Waste at Millikin University

A Review of the Perpetual Debates in Russian Revolution Historiography

SH412

1-1:45 p.m.

Presenter(s):

Olivia Swords

Faculty Sponsor(s):

Dr. Dan Monroe

Abstract/Description:

This presentation will consist of a reading of my paper entitled "A Review of the Perpetual Debates in Russian Revolution Historiography," followed by a brief audience Q&A. The paper presents an analysis of a series of historical perspectives from Western and Soviet scholars, politicians, and leaders from nearly every decade of the 20th and 21st centuries. These historical accounts provide an array of interpretations regarding the emergence of Marxism-Leninism in Russia following the assassination of the imperial family, and the rise of Soviet leadership.

Sexuality in Hemingway's Stories

SH412

2-2:30 p.m.

Presenter(s):

Angelina Thompson

Faculty Sponsor(s):

Dr. Dan Monroe

Abstract/Description:

Hemingway's writing subtly considered taboo subjects like sexuality while using covert language to avoid censorship. In some stories, he touches on the themes of gender modernism and the complexities of intimacy, often hinting at homosexual undertones without directly addressing them. This paper looks at how his writing challenged traditional views on sexuality and gender, offering readers multiple interpretations and sparking ongoing conversations about these themes.

By Any Means Necessary: The Evolution of Malcom X

SH412

2:30-3 p.m.

Presenter(s):

Brennan Pekelder

Faculty Sponsor(s):

Dr. Dan Monroe

Abstract/Description:

An in-depth look at the ideology of Malcom X during his time as a member of the Nation of Islam,compared to his beliefs after leaving the organization.

Senior Seminar Projects for Mathematics and Computer Science

UC138 & 142

9-11 a.m.

Presenter(s):

Delaney Balmer, DeMarcus Bond, Justin Maniago, and Jenna Wiltjer

Faculty Sponsor(s):

Dr. Emily Olson, Dr. Jim Rauff

Abstract/Description:

This is the culminating work of seniors in the School of Mathematics & Computational Sciences.

How a Label Can Affect a Person

SH315

10:30-10:45 a.m.

Presenter(s):

Kelsey Bruno

Faculty Sponsor(s):

Dr. Kenneth Laundra

Abstract/Description:

The Criminal Justice System is a vast system within the United States. My time at the Taylorville Police Department allowed me to see this through shadowing police officers, dispatchers, and city workers. Through my experience at TPD, I was able to understand biases and the stigma surrounding labels. My work included understanding the harmful public view that recovering offenders receive when a label is placed upon them and the difficulty of the rehabilitation process. My internship was an avenue to see how biases can factor into the communities themselves, causing harmful images to be painted in citizens’eyes on offenders.

Revitalize It!: Revitalizing Torrence Park & Discussion with Students and Faculty from Kyiv Polytechnic University

SH315

11 a.m.-noon

Presenter(s):

Jackie Fikan, Emmanuel Nwatu, Izabel Pender, Ixavion Moore, Brandon Johnson

Faculty Sponsor(s):

Dr. Kenneth Laundra

Abstract/Description:

Senior Sociology students from Millikin University finishing their capstone project will present their progress on the ongoing Torrence Park Revitalization Project, a community-based collaboration effort to revitalize (restore with new life) the Torrence Park neighborhood with a community garden, nature trail and organized activities for residents of this low-income neighborhood. Some of our community partners will also be in attendance, including students and faculty from Kyiv Polytechnic University (KPU), Department of Sociology & Law joining the presentation to share their thoughts on revitalization as well.

During the first 30 minutes, Dr. Kenneth Laundra will welcome attendees and bridge the concept of revitalization to both our class project in Decatur and the project of revitalizing Ukraine during wartime, followed by senior capstone students from Millikin University, Department of Sociology & Criminal Justice, who will present on their efforts to revitalize the low-income neighborhood of Torrence Park in Decatur, Illinois. 

All attendees are invited to attend and listen to this presentation, which will also be held live on Zoom at: https://us04web.zoom.us/j/77678342701?pwd=yNQD3pEjcSdR1UW3EQ23Bu6KS2qaXq.1 

Meeting ID: 776 7834 2701 Passcode: 4gpptv

During the final 30 minutes, Millikin attendees will be introduced to Dr. Pavlo Kutuev, Chair of Sociology at Kyiv Polytechnic University, and his students, with opening remarks from Dr. Kutuev. Primarily, Millikin attendees will listen to faculty and students from KPU regarding their revitalization struggles in the context of a nation at war with invading Russia, and to offer our support for Ukraine.