SOURCE : Approved Abstracts

ORDERED FUZZY ARTMAP FOR PREDICTING HIV-1 PROTEASE INHIBITOR ACTIVITY

Computer-aided drug design is useful because it can drastically decrease the time needed to produce new drugs to use against therapeutically important enzymes. We employ an Ordered Fuzzy ARTMAP (OFAM) to predict the biological activity of HIV-1 Protease inhibitors. Ordering the input vectors before presentation to the Fuzzy ARTMAP (FAM) improves the predictive capabilities of the model for IC50 values. To circumvent the effect of the input order, the algorithm attempts to choose representative molecules from each cluster to present first to the FAM followed by the remaining data points. The algorithm is outlined as following: 1) Choose the most distinct individual based on internal diversity. 2) Choose the next nclusts - 1 individuals that maximize the Euclidean distance between them. 3) Choose the remaining individuals by selecting those closest to the cluster centers first. Our results show a 36% MAPE improvement using the optimized OFAM vs the FAM.

PREDICTION OF NOVEL INHIBITORS TARGETING P. FALCIPARUM PLASMEPSIN IV

The malarial parasite Plasmodium falciparum is endemic to 50% of the world's population, killing three million people a year, most of whom are children under five years of age. Due in part to the development of malarial resistance to current drug therapies, novel drug targets are being sought. The malarial hemolytic aspartic protease Plasmepsins are such targets of rational drug design. We use an Ordered Fuzzy ARTMAP (OFAM) and a fuzzy neural network with a genetic algorithm optimizing the feature selection process (FNN) to model the biological activities of Plasmepsin IV (PM IV) inhibitors and to predict the activity cluster of novel structures.

ELECTRONIC REALIZATION OF THE LOGISTIC MAP

An electronic realization of the Logistic Map was designed and built using integrated circuits and arithmetic operations were performed on the voltage values in the circuit using 741 Op-Amp circuits and an AD734 multiplier chip. The iteration mechanism was constructed using a CD4051B analog multiplexer and two LM398 sample-and-hold circuits, with the multiplexer providing the seed for the initial condition. The sample and hold circuits were triggered using a set of four 555 timer circuits and two logic-gate integrated circuits. To check for proper functionality, the circuit was probed with a voltmeter without iterating the circuit. The behavior of a computational model of the Logistic Map will be compared to the behavior of this electronic circuit.

FOCUS ON FORM AND LEARNER UPTAKE IN AN ESL CLASSROOM: WHAT TYPES OF FOCUS ON FORM FACILITATE STUDENTS' LEARNING?

Focus on form is a type of interaction found in second language classes devoted to the completion of communicative tasks. Focus on form is considered to be effective in teaching a second language because it occurs in a meaningful context. Second language learners normally do not learn to use the correct forms of a language merely by participating in a conversation, so some attention to form is generally required. I audio-recorded 7 class sessions of an adult ESL class at YVCC in order to study the nature of focus on form. This study is aimed at revealing correlations between the types of focus on form and students’ learning. The following questions guided the analysis: Which types of focus on form (preemptive or reactive, explicit or implicit, vocabulary or syntax) occur more frequently? Which types of focus on form result in learners’ successful uptake?

WYMER QUADRANGLE: ISSUES AND CONFLICTS IN RESOURCE MANAGEMENT

Located between Kittitas and Yakima counties in Washington State, the Wymer topographic quadrangle is a polyconic projection depicting the shape and elevation of Yakima River Canyon infrastructure created by prehistoric volcanism, tectonic deformation, hydrologic incision and other geomorphological processes. Published in 1953, Wymer depicts extremely rural, rugged and arid terrain, which remains relatively unchanged after the half-century since the map’s creation through the combined cartographic efforts of no fewer than five United States government agencies. Today, Wymer contains a dynamic microcosm of management entities, including federal, state, county, tribal, public and private jurisdictions, which form the basis for ongoing research into policies, issues and conflicts inherent to natural and cultural resource management.

CAN FUTURE SOPHOMORE WASL TEST SCORES BE PREDICTED?

Research Question: Are Sophomore WASL test scores associated with gender, ethnicity, percentage of continuous enrollment and/or the enrollment of special needs, low income, limited English usage or migrant students? If so, which of these factors can be considered a good predictor of how a school will do on the WASL test? By using past years data, we will statistically examine whether or not individual schools will be able to predict future scores based on that school’s student population. Data has been collected from the Office of the Superintendent of Public Instruction website (http://www.k12.wa.us/ Value of the Study). This study will be of interest to school administration and parents. By being able to predict how the school will test based on the information provided, the administration and parents will be able to better prepare students before testing.

SYNTHESIS AND OPTICAL CHARACTERIZATION OF SRY2O4:EU3+

I have finished research on the synthesis and VUV optical characterization of SrY2O4 doped with Eu3+. SrY2O4:Eu3+ was synthesized from Y2O3, Eu2O3, and SrCO3, with 5% excess SrCO3 by weight; the mixture was fired at 1050ºC for 12 hrs in air twice; phase pure product was confirmed with powder X-ray diffraction. Results indicate that Eu3+ occupies two non-equivalent Y sites within the SrY2O4 framework. Calculation of maximum transfer efficiency for SrY2O4:Eu3+ resulted in 60% with 35% lost to non-radiative decay via surface states. Reflectance data on an undoped sample indicates a band gap of about 6.1eV.

AMPHIBIAN POPULATION STUDIES WITH TEAM HERPS

Team HERPS uses amphibian population studies to Help Enhance Research in Public Schools. As part of the Yakima WATERS program, Team HERPS works to increase the relevancy of biological sciences by integrating watershed themes into the curriculum at Ellensburg High School. Under the context of watershed ecology, amphibian research is used to engage students in inquiry based learning activities. Specifically, students participate in a population study of amphibians which requires capture, measuring, and tagging of Pacific Tree Frogs at Englehorn Pond. Gathering information about abundance and distribution allows students to understand the effects of disease and water quality on amphibian population dynamics. Studies of amphibian populations are important because one third of amphibians worldwide are threatened with extinction, which is part of a global trend of biodiversity loss. Through Project HERPS students gain experience in authentic biological research and are able to contribute to a study of an amphibian population which is undergoing declines.

CHANGING CULTURAL LANDSCAPE OF ASAN POINT, GUAM: 1953 AND 1993

This project examines the changing cultural landscape of Asan Point, Guam though the use of aerial photography and photo interpretation techniques. The two times selected, 1953 and 1993, depict very different usages of the area. These usages are most apparent when the location and quantities of roads, trails, buildings, and trees are compared. Guam, a territory of the United States, is the largest and southernmost island of the Mariana chain in the Western Pacific, with Asan Point on its northeast shore. Over the past century, Asan Point has seen many changes. Following World War II, Camp Asan was established and housed U.S. Navy Seabees until 1947, and served as a Civil Service Camp from 1948 to 1967 (see the 1953 photo). The buildings were destroyed in 1976 by a typhoon. In 1978 the site became the War in the Pacific National Historical Park (see the 1993 photo). Analysis of changes in roads, trails, buildings, and trees between these two times, utilizing air photo interpretation techniques, clearly indicates changes in human use of Asan Point. Despite the economic growth and urban sprawl that has affected most of the island, Asan Point has been set aside and preserved for its historical significance. It is important to understand that the 1993 image, while it seems vacant, is depicting a scene just as interesting as the 1953 image. In fact, the use of Asan Point as a park is just another of the many identities the area has held over the years.

CONCESSIONS OF NECESSITY: THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN PRIVATE ENTERPRISES AND STATE DURING THE COLONIZATION OF SIBERIA

This primary and secondary source research paper describes the process that the Russian state during the reign of Ivan IV (The Terrible) gave land as well as financial and administrative concessions to the Stroganov family. The paper examines the reasons why the state provided these concessions, under what terms and the historical events that framed these concessions. The paper also examines the historiography of these events, describing how the colonization of Siberia was carried out and how these events have been interpreted by historians and why the current scholarship leaves a gap in the study of the history of Siberia.

LEMON BATTERIES: AN EXPLORATION AND APPLICATION OF THE ELECTROCHEMICAL SERIES

The objective of this research project is to create a laboratory that supports student inquiry of redox reactions and processes involved in setting up an electrochemical series. Students will perform this by creating a lemon battery system using different types of metals and connecting them to create a galvanic cell. The goal is to find a problem based approach for college level students to create, test, and use a battery to power an electronic device, such as an LED or a low current electric motor. The experiment will be implemented into the general chemistry lab series in Spring Quarter of 2008. If students are able to develop a battery with enough current and voltage to power a small device then they will better understand redox chemistry and the electrochemical series because they will be physically applying these chemical concepts to solve a real-world problem.

COMPUTER MODELLING AND NEURAL NETWORKS USED IN THE DESIGN OF NOVEL HIV-1 PROTEASE INHIBITORS FOR THE THERAPEUTIC TREATMENT OF HIV/AIDS

This computational chemistry approach employs the use of a genetic algorithm to optimize feature selection and a Fuzzy ARTMAP (GA-FS-FAM) to predict the biological activity of HIV-1 protease inhibitors as measured by their IC50 value. Predictions were made using seeds containing 4, 8, and 35 common molecular descriptors in pharmaceutical design (i.e. Lipinski’s descriptors). Trials were performed with and without feature selection. Feature selection is an automated process which chooses the most representative descriptors from the total set of molecular descriptors for the given data set using an evolutionary algorithm. This involves scrutinizing the fitness of different combinations of molecular descriptors based on their statistical correlations to a training set using RMSE, SMAPE, and Pearson’s coefficient. The fittest chromosome is selected and used to seed the FAM to predict the biological activity of novel inhibitors. Once this optimization is complete, the rules used by the GA-FS-FAM can be extracted. Rule extraction provides the medicinal chemist with a more comprehensive understanding of the most relevant molecular descriptors. The goal of this research is to develop a set of adaptive algorithms which can be used to determine the most representative molecular descriptors of any new data set which is presented to the program, predict the biological activity of novel inhibitors within that data set with precision and accuracy, and extract the rules which govern the learning and prediction processes. If successful, this approach will decrease the time required to develop and improve the efficacy of novel pharmaceutical leads.

SEASONAL MOVEMENT AND HABITAT USE OF THE CASCADES FROG (RANA CASCADAE) IN WASHINGTON

Cascades frogs (Rana cascadae) are endemic to montane ecosystems in the Pacific Northwest and are declining in the southern part of their range. There are no studies on the overwintering habits of the Cascades frog and little information about their habitat requirements after the breeding season. This study will track a population of Cascades frogs in the foothills of the North Cascades throughout the year using radio-telemetry. Physiological data on energy storage will be gathered before and after hibernation and compared to a lower elevation site. Data will be gathered on population size and health and correlated with temperatures and dissolved oxygen at hibernation sites and throughout the year. Frog movement will be tracked between hibernation, breeding and summer foraging sites. Preliminary data indicate that R. cascadae are not freeze tolerant and require specific micro-habitats during hibernation.

THE CENTRAL LOWLAND MAYA REGION OF THE YUCATAN PENINSULA PRE 1492 CE

Much is made in both scientific and popular writing of the Mayan Collapse during the Classical Period, 800 to 1000 CE. While a variety of researchers have speculated on this period, there is not a prevalence of interdisciplinary approaches that might give a more holistic understanding of the lower Yucatan through time. This poster project uses such an approach to review what is known about this region, from the ‘Peopling of the Americas’ through 1491 CE. An integration of information from Archaeology, Oral History, and Geography was used to explore the lifeways and environment of the Maya. The tropical forest obscures traces of human activity forcing researchers to focus on the Mayan cultural centers, thus creating biases in data. Oral History is composed of written origin stories of the Maya including descriptive narratives of their Gods. Paleoenvironmental data shows the climate changing from wet to dry, with a series of dry periods and those affects on tropical forest ecology. This research found the common thread of corn within all of the disciplines information. The role of corn is thought to be central, as it is depicted in Mayan architecture, plays a primary role in oral and written stories, and was found in environmental soil studies dating to long before the rise of the Classical Maya. These findings indicate corn’s importance to the people of the lowland Yucatan and provide a more integrated and holistic view Mayan worldview.

CONTACT, CONQUEST, AND COLONIZATION OF THE MAYA

An interdisciplinary approach leads to a more holistic way of understanding the period of European contact (1500 to 1900 CE) in the Yucatan Peninsula. The use of archaeological records, historical American Indian and Euro-American records, and rhetorical analysis is employed in an effort to get an integrated view of the cultural interactions of the colonial period. Archaeological studies highlight the demographic dispersal of indigenous people just before and during colonial times. Colonial records and missionary journals give generous details of daily life and the pacification strategies used in the area during that period. The Sacred Books of the Maya, which were continuously added to by Mayan Priests, conveyed a sense of how the indigenous population felt about and understood the changes that were affecting their traditional way of life during that time. Each of these types of records were analyzed and recognized for carrying biases, using different methods of data collection, and holding various worldviews. This poster project shows the difficulty of getting a holistic understanding of a region when so many factors are at play in the cultural mixture of colonial society.

ROLE OF VENTRAL CORD NEURONS ON EGG LAYING UPON LONG-TERM EXPOSURE TO SEROTONIN IN THE ROUNDWORM, C. ELEGANS

The roundworm, C. elegans is an excellent genetic model for studying genes involved in behavior. In wild type C. elegans initial exposure to the neurotransmitter serotonin (5-HT) stimulates egg laying and pharyngeal pumping and decreases locomotion. After four hours of exposure to 5-HT, wild-type worms begin to show behavioral adaptation, which is shown by a decrease in egg laying to levels that occur in the absence of 5-HT. Additionally, wild-type worms after being removed from 5-HT containing agar plates stopped laying eggs completely, a behavior described as withdrawal. The neurons controlling adaptation to 5-HT for egg laying have not been identified. It is known that the ventral cord neurons (VC4 and VC5) play a role in egg laying in general but is not known whether or not they also play a role in adaptation to 5-HT. In order to test whether or not these VC neurons are involved in adaptation, a mutant worm defective ventral cord (VC) neuron function was tested for its response to long-term exposure to 5-HT. Preliminary results indicate the mutant worms, strain CB270, adapts to 5-HT suggesting the VC neurons are not involved in adaptation of egg laying to 5-HT.

TRADITIONAL ECOLOGICAL KNOWLEDGE AND WESTERN SCIENCE ON THE YAKAMA RESERVATION, WASHINGTON

Around the world, traditional ecological knowledge (TEK) is slowly being lost or neglected. This knowledge is as important as western science in maintaining ecological systems. The integration of both disciplines is important on the Yakama Reservation to help maintain not only the ecological landscape, but also cultural identity of the Yakama people. To understand the importance of both TEK and western science in relation to the Yakama people, Camas Patch Meadow is examined through the lens of each discipline. Past management strategies of the meadow included prescribed burning, fence exclosures, and traditional root gathering. The meadow is currently being affected by forest land practices, such as grazing and timber harvest. While many tribal elders attest to changes in both the size and quality of the meadow system, because these changes have not been measured or documented using a scientific process, they are not accepted as proof of degradation by adherents of the western science discipline. Recently, resource management plans for the meadow have begun to focus on integrating traditional knowledge with western knowledge to both educate and inform tribal members and management decision-makers. This study illustrates the importance of traditional knowledge and how it relates to western science in regards to managing the environment. If these two approaches are integrated, resource managers can provide a management plan that best suits not only scientists, but tribal members as well.

METHOD DEVELOPMENT WITH HIGH PRESSURE LIQUID CHROMATOGRAPH FOR THE DETECTION AND QUANTITATION OF SUBMICROMOLAR CONCENTRATIONS OF METHANESULFINIC ACID

Methanesulfinic acid (MSIA) is an oxidation intermediate of phytoplankton derived dimethylsulfide (DMS) emitted when metabolic iron-limitation persists in open oceans. To further prove or disprove laboratory evidence that MSIA is likely to enhance iron (II) photoproduction and thus, iron bioavailability, the detection and quantitation of MSIA at low atmospheric levels is fundamental. This study will focus on developing a method of analysis of MSIA at submicromolar concentrations in aqueous solutions by applying High Pressure Liquid Chromatography (HPLC). This technique is novel and would therefore also constitute a significant contribution to the field of analytical chemistry.

SYNTHESIS TOWARDS NOVEL 1,3-AZABORINE HETEROCYCLES AS POTENTIAL DUAL-MODE HIV-1 PROTEASE INHIBITORS

Drug discovery has resulted in many life-saving therapies, making a great impact on modern medicine and the human condition. Even though new therapies are available many drugs are highly susceptible to resistance development, have poor bioavailability, and some of them are toxic. HIV-1 protease inhibitors presently on the market show high specificity but have low bioavailability and high toxicity. Furthermore, the available drugs have a very low affinity for mutant forms of HIV-1 protease. Recent studies have shown that boronated HIV-1 protease inhibitors, which demonstrate both competitive and associative inhibition, have a higher affinity for HIV-1 protease at lower concentrations than their corresponding carbon analogs and also inhibit a mutant form of HIV-1 protease. In this study three novel 1,3-azaborine type of heterocycles are being synthesized. Their biological characteristics will be analyzed and compared with other inhibitors to determine their effectiveness as novel anti-HIV drugs.

FUNCTION OF GENE PRODUCT ISOLATED FROM RETINA OF CHICKEN EMBRYO

The overall goal of this research is to determine if a certain gene product may have effects on neuronal connections in a developing visual system. Previous studies identified a unique mRNA and the encoded protein synthesized in the retina of a developing chicken embryo. Since these sequences were originally isolated, the chicken genome has been completely sequenced. Current analyses are focused on what might be known about this chicken gene product. When the sequence was compared to the chicken genome database it was matched with a gene on the seventh chromosome with 100% identity. Other characterized genes exist within this region on the chromosome that have known functions. The gene isolated matches to a computer-predicted gene on the chromosome, meaning that there are no previous reports regarding a gene with a known function in this specific region. More research is underway to identify homologous genes in the human and mouse genomes that might provide more information about the function of this gene, aside from what is predicted by computer software. Furthermore, comparison of the protein sequence to the protein databases could reveal homology to small functional “units” of the encoded protein that may identify a function of the gene product. Identifying some function of this gene will potentially provide more information regarding whether the gene product is involved in axonal growth patterns within the visual system.

INDIVIDUAL- AND TASK-VARIATION IN HANDEDNESS IN FIVE CROSS-FOSTERED CHIMPANZEES (PAN TROGLODYTES)

Humans show a population-level hand preference for the right hand but such a population-level handedness in chimpanzees is disputed. Robinson (1979) and Steiner (1990) examined hand preference in a family of cross-fostered chimpanzees and found that the chimpanzees showed individual differences in hand preference overall and that hand preference varied within the same individual across tasks. The current study examined the handedness of these chimpanzees – Washoe, Moja, Tatu, Dar, and Loulis – over various dates and locations from the last 22 years. We hypothesized that 1) the chimpanzees would show individual preferences for one hand or the other and 2) that such preferences would vary within the same individual during different tasks. Three categories of tasks were examined: object manipulation, gesture use, and food interaction. We reviewed 40 hours of adventitious videotapes and found 1,796 instances of hand use during such tasks. We found that Washoe was predominantly right handed and Dar was predominantly left handed during each task. Overall, Tatu showed a preference for her right hand, but was more ambidextrous. Loulis also showed a preference for his right hand, except when interacting with food, when he showed a trend for using his left hand. Moja showed significant preference for her left hand in gesture, but for her right in object manipulation. Overall, these data support our hypotheses.

WILD HORSES ACROSS GENERATIONS

The Yakama Nation Reservation is home to a large population of wild horses. These wild horses have been seen as symbolically meaningful, a thrill to catch, and also a nuisance. Wild Horses Across Generations is a ten minute documentary short that interviews three Yakama men of different generations within the Blodgett family each with a slightly different perspective of the horse population. David Blodgett Sr. tells of his personal histories, his relationships with the horses, and what they mean to the Yakama. David Blodgett Jr. describes the horse population today, their steady increase in numbers, and the detrimental effects of such a large population. Dave Blodgett III takes the viewer out to the field for some live shots to demonstrate the thrill of chasing these animals. The film is informative with a hint of impressionism and should allow the viewer to grow an appreciation for the wild horse population on the Yakama Reservation and an understanding of the need for proper management.

MY THANKSGIVING EXPERIENCE

Thanksgiving is a holiday well known in this country for giving thanks and being with family however each one of us has our own unique ways of celebrating. The documentary short My Thanksgiving Experience follows me, Kristen Blodgett-Duque, as I find out what others think about the holiday and how they celebrate it. Later the film observes my Thanksgiving unfold with a reunion of family, what we’re thankful for, and after all is said and done, what I took away from Thanksgiving. The seven minute film ties in brief interviews, modern music, and a “reality TV” edge, to properly showcase how Thanksgiving unfolds for one “typical, everyday” college student.

THE LINKAGE BETWEEN CIVIC ENGAGEMENT AND TOURISM

The link between civic engagement and the tourism industry often lies in the collaboration of public, private, and non-profit organizations in the community. Tourists, or visitors, travel for recreation and leisure motivated by all or some of: physical well-being, cultural knowledge and experience, interpersonal relationships, and the pursuit of one's education and status (McIntosh and Goeldner, 1990). A community is best described by Hart(1999) as "a group of people who live and interact in a specific geographic area." Therefore, tourism and community are interlinked by those businesses and organizations involved in the delivery of the tourism "product." This tourism delivery system can be seen in Kittitas County through non-profit organizations such as the Thorp Mill Town Historical Preservation Society (TMTHPS) and the Ellensburg Downtown Association (EDA). Students engaged in the community have a higher respect for where they live. Tourism management students are displaying their work with the Thorp Mill. The students are involved with fundraising events, promotion, membership recruitment, site planning and land use, historical interpretation, and recreation and tourism opportunities that surround the Mill. As a result, fresh ideas in relation to recreation and tourism are brought to the Mill site. Through this poster presentation, tourism students who are civically engaged demonstrate their knowledge of the links among non-profit organizations, the tourism system, and the community.

AN EXPLORATORY STUDY OF THE PROPARGYLATION OF AROMATICS WITH BI(OTF)3 IN IONIC LIQUID SOLVENT [BMIM][OTF]: NEW LIFE FOR A CLASSIC TRANSFORMATION

Green chemistry, also known as sustainable chemistry, refers to the design and use of chemicals and processes that reduce or eliminate substances that are hazardous to humans and the environment. In this relatively new approach to chemistry emphasis is also placed on maintaining economic viability while minimizing energy use and waste production. Many traditional organic solvents have been implicated as environmental contaminants and are often toxic, volatile and difficult to work with. The search for replacements for these solvents is currently the subject of intense research and is an important agenda for green chemistry. Room temperature ionic liquids have attracted great interest for use as green solvents because they have a low melting point, no vapor pressure and are generally non-volatile, non-toxic, recyclable and environmentally friendly. This study was designed to test bismuth triflate, Bi(OTf)3, and 1-Butyl-3-methylimidazolium trifluoromethanesulfonate, [BMIM][OTf], as a novel catalyst-solvent system for the propargylation of aromatics. The products of these reactions are valuable intermediates used in a wide variety of organic syntheses. All reactions were carried out under nitrogen atmosphere at room temperature or low temperature. The products were then separated from the ionic liquid by extraction with anhydrous diethyl ether. After removing the ether, the products were dried and analyzed using GC, GC-MS and 1H NMR and the ionic liquid solvent was recovered and reused.

FUNERAL MARCH FOR TROMBONE QUARTET, OPUS 11

This piece of music was commissioned by a member of this trombone quartet that meets regularly during the week. The actual piece was composed shortly after the death of a close family friend, so some aspects of the piece pay homage to him. Otherwise, the request for the composition was to be "dark". The piece is indeed dark, with many changes in volume and even mood. My composition style is similar to the styles of Anton Bruckner and Richard Wagner, and the piece can be thought of as a tribute to them, as well. I have had 10 other successful compositions in the 4 years I've been here at CWU, and all of them have been performed by students of the music department at various music events. This piece has already been premiered once. Three of the members of this quartet have premiered pieces of mine before, and so they are familiar with my writing style. The piece will last about 6 minutes.

CONDITIONING PRACTICES AND INJURY RATES OF COMPETITIVE IRISH DANCERS

Although Irish dance competitions have existed for over two centuries, little is known about conditioning practices or the types and rates of injuries of competitors. The purpose of this study was to help determine the relationship between skill level, extracurricular activities, cross-training and injuries within the Irish dance population. An anonymous survey was created to provide information on the levels of competition, the conditioning practices and the injury rates of Irish dance competitors. Respondents (n=351) included past and present competitive male (n=23) and female (n=328) Irish dancers from 10 to 52 years of age. The average volume of specific dance training amounted to 8.34±4.91 hours per week with 56% (198/351) also participating in other supplemental training. The ankle/foot had the highest injury rates (63.7%) followed by the knee (16.9%) and the hip (15.2%). Respondents indicated a strong willingness to participate in a specialized Irish dance strength training regimen (>90%). The information obtained helped develop a clear profile of competitive Irish dance to better identify and refine the training tools and techniques needed to develop stronger and healthier dancers.

SURFACE METALS CONTRIBUTE TO THE TOXICITY OF AIR POLLUTION

Atmospheric ultrafine particles (UFP, 100nm or less in diameter) have been shown to have adverse health effects in vivo and in vitro. A part of the toxicity of these particles can be due to the redox cycling of the surface chemical groups reacting with biological reductants to cause reactive oxygen species (ROS) formation. Some surface reactive groups that can cause redox cycling are quinones and transition metals. One example of a transition metal is iron, which can be removed from redox cycling with desferrioxamine to form the ferrioxamine complex. Ambient atmospheric ultrafine particles were collected in both Seattle and Ellensburg and tested for their ability to redox cycle. Increased redox cycling was observed in Seattle UFPs compared to Ellensburg UFPs. In general, statistically significant differences were observed in Ellensburg and Seattle samples in the presence and absence of desferrioxamine, linking the transition metal iron with redox cycling.

ELECTRONIC THEATRICAL PROMPT SCRIPT

I am a Stage Manager in the Central Theatre Arts Department. This past Fall quarter I had the opportunity of stage managing an adaptation by Ken Jones of Charles Dicken's A Christmas Carol in the McConnell Auditorium. In order to expand my knowledge base and try new things, I put the prompt script onto a computer rather than using the traditional pencil and paper to record the cues. The prompt script is a copy of the show script that contains all the cues (indicators of all scenic shifts, and all light, sound and special effect changes and executions through-out the show) and is used by the stage manager to ensure a flawless reproduction of the director's vision. I found the process extremely efficient, time-saving and simple. It is an experiment that I will bring with me back into the professional world. There is a generational gap in the field of Theatrical Stage Management between the "old-school" Stage Managers and those who are familiar with technology in this field. I am trying to introduce a more technological base for my fellow students here at Central and for my peers in the career field. It is a small step, but one that can begin a bigger push for other technological innovations. I will be presenting my electronic book along side my 3-ring bound blocking script.

THREE PERFORMANCE PIECES

These performance pieces were presented last quarter in Laramie, WY at the regional Kennedy Center American College Theatre Festival. The performers were moved on to the preliminary round. The pieces are as follows: One scene from Alexandra Gersten's My Thing of Love, the song "Single Man Drought" from the musical I Love You, You're Perfect, Now Change!, and a monologue.

WHAT BUFFON’S ANIMALS TELL US ABOUT HUMANS: EIGHTEENTH-CENTURY CONCEPTIONS IN BUFFON’S NATURAL HISTORY: GENERAL AND PARTICULAR

The work of the once famous eighteenth-century French naturalist known as Buffon has been largely overlooked due to the rapid increase and revisions in scientific understanding that took place in the nineteenth-century as well as the wholesale adoption of the Linnaean classification by most of the scientific community of the time. Nevertheless, an examination of Buffon’s methods, insights and findings sheds light on the roots of modern understandings of the nature of human beings and the relationship between humans and the natural world. This paper will focus on Buffon’s epistomologies and observations pertinent to his definition of humans as part of or separate from nature.

SCIENCE, ART, AND THE PERCEPTION OF NATURE: MARIA SYBILLA MERIAN AND ALEXANDER VON HUMBOLDT IN THE NEW WORLD

Many of our attitudes toward nature, methods of study, and approaches to environmental problems can be traced to the eighteenth century. Entomologist-botanical artist Maria Sybilla Merian and explorer-philosopher Alexander von Humboldt voyaged to the New World a hundred years apart: Merian to the Dutch colony of Surinam in 1699 and Humboldt to New Spain in 1799. They both relied heavily on the knowledge and expertise of native, slave, and creole Americans. They also shared a passion for direct empirical observation of the natural world. However, they appealed to vastly different audiences and employed very different media to communicate their findings. This poster outlines the changes that took place in the hundred year period between these two exemplary explorer/naturalists. It also compares the ways they studied and perceived nature and how their work reflected the way they each approached their studies of the natural world.

THE LIFE AND TIMES OF HAIRY ELEFANTE: GEOGRAPHY, GEOCHEMISTRY AND PALEONTOLOGY OF THE PRATUM SITE, WESTERN OREGON

In August of 1967 remains of a mammoth were discovered in a peat bog in Pratum, a small farming community near Salem, Oregon. Two molars were found in conjunction with a tusk, femur, and partial pelvis. While mammoth finds are fairly common in the area, detailed palaeontological analysis has rarely been attempted on such finds. The goals of this project are to analyze the Pratum mammoth in terms of the geographic and geologic context of the find, conduct stable isotope geochemical analyses of the bones and tusk, and morphometric analysis of the remains. To date, morphometric analysis of the find has determined that the animal was a Columbian mammoth (Mammuthus columbi) approximately 22±3 years of age at death. AMS radiocarbon dating has revealed that the animal died 12,023±77 14C years ago. The project is currently awaiting stable isotope analysis results (?18O, ?15N, ?13C 87Sr/86Sr) to be correlated with regional paleoclimate datasets. Microsampling of the Pratum tusk material has been used to compose an 3.5 yr annual variation sequence for ?18O and ?13C that can be used as a proxy palaeodata for temperature and vegetation at the time when the mammoth lived. Mathematical climate models have also been used to construct a contemporary palaeoclimate record for comparison with the recovered stable isotope information from this mammoth.

EFFECTS OF A CALCIUM CHANNEL, UNC-2, ON LONG-TERM EXPOSURE TO SEROTONIN ON EGG LAYING IN THE NEMATODE, CAENORHABDITIS ELEGANS

The nematode, Caenorhabditis elegans (C. elegans) is a great model organism for studying the behavioral responses and neural pathways controlled by serotonin. Research on the wild-type, N2 strain has identified specific serotonin pathways that control behavior. One behavior that is controlled by serotonin is egg laying. Serotonin will have different effects depending on the amount of time the animal is exposed to serotonin. Upon short-term exposure (one hour) to serotonin the nematode will increase egg-laying rate. When exposed for four hours or longer, egg-laying rate decreases to levels observed when serotonin is absent, a process we call adaptation. My particular project is to address whether or not the calcium channel protein, UNC-2 controls the long-term response to serotonin for egg laying as had been previously reported. To test this question, I examined the response of a mutant strain, missing the UNC-2 protein. I have observed in this mutant that the calcium channel protein may not effect adaptation to serotonin on egg laying because the mutant showed a decrease in egg laying to serotonin over time.

GPS ESTIMATES OF CASCADIA SLIP DEFICIT BENEATH THE OLYMPIC PENINSULA

Previous studies documenting multiple slow slip events (SSEs) along the northern Cascadia megathrust suggests that these events might be of use in quantifying the seismogenic potential along the deeper locked reaches closest to major metropolitan regions. While previous modeling of interseismic deformation vectors have focused on fitting long-term interseismic vectors, the increasing spatial resolution of GPS-based slip inversions allows a more detailed look at strain accumulation beneath regions of the megathrust that have had long-term monitoring. The downdip extent of the locked subduction thrust fault is accumulating elastic strain. Some models suggest a slip deficit coupling effect which diminishes closer to the deformation front. Our analysis suggests that ~50% of the plate coupling effect is maintained into the Puget Lowlands. Slip inverted from 12 large SSEs, integrated from April 1997 to September 2005, show a pronounced updip limit beneath the Puget Basin. We modeled the interseismic deformation from 1997 though 2006. To obtain a first-order approximation model we applied a simple algorithm that best fit the coupling strength. This method culminated in a coupling strength profile downdip through the locked zone which is maintaining nearly half of its strength as far east as below the Puget Lowlands. The predicted interseismic deformation yielded by a coupling profile corroborates that ~50% of the total strain accumulation beneath the Olympics will be available to drive megathrust rupture. Considering the increased hazard potential these results may prompt a reassessment of the strong ground motion induced by megathrust rupture within Cascadia’s large metropolitan regions.

TO SPRAWL OR NOT TO SPRAWL: THE GROWTH AND DEVELOPMENT OF KITTITAS COUNTY

Growth and development has impacted many major cities and their immediate surrounding areas. This paper examines the growth and development of a smaller more rural area, the Kittitas County. It focuses on environmental impacts resulting from expansion in Ellensburg and the surrounding areas. This paper examines impacts to natural resources that are affected by the consistent development in the Kittitas County resulting from the influx of population residing in the area. Much of the data gathered came from the U.S. Census Bureau, various environmental agencies as well as the City of Ellensburg website. As a result of information obtained, the growth and development in the Kittitas County have resulted in loss of farmland, an increase in resources for building purposes, effects to wildlife and wetland habitats, water and electrical usage issues, and increased use and need for natural resources.

SYNTHESIS OF NOVEL 1,3-AZABORINES AS POTENTIAL DUAL-MODE HIV-1 PROTEASE INHIBITORS FOR THE TREATMENT OF HIV/AIDS

HIV-1 protease is the enzyme responsible for the maturation of the HIV virus. Most of the currently available enzyme inhibitors can be rendered useless due to resistance. Other problems associated with currently used drugs include low bioavailability and toxicity. Therefore, it is essential to develop new chemical structures which can become more efficient drugs. These novel inhibitors must have such characteristics as high affinity, good bioavailability, and low toxicity. Furthermore, new compounds that are dual-mode inhibitors (competitive and associative) should be more efficient than the currently available drugs, which are strictly competitive inhibitors. We are currently synthesizing novel 1,3-azaborine dual-mode inhibitory compounds. Once obtained, their biological characteristics will be determined and compared with known inhibitors to determine their effectiveness as novel anti-HIV drugs.

ELECTRORECEPTION IN THE NEMATODE, CAENORHABDITIS ELEGANS

Certain organisms such as migratory birds use the Earth’s magnetic fields as a compass to direct their migration. How this magnetic information is sensed by organisms and converted into a response remains elusive. C. elegans provides an excellent model to study a similar effect using electric fields. C. elegans is a small roundworm that is used as a model organism to study the neurons (nerve cells) and genes involved in behavior, largely due to its rather simple and well-characterized nervous system. In addition, many mutants are available or can be generated allowing one to study effects of known genes or to isolate genes that might be involved in electroreception. This research has centered on developing a method to measure electroreception in C. elegans to study the neurons and genes involves in this process. The experimental method that has been developed will be discussed. In addition, the testing of the hypothesis that C. elegans may use its chemosensory neurons to detect electrical fields will also be discussed.

USING COMPUTER TECHNOLOGY TO REPLACE OBSOLETE (PAPER PROCESS) ATTENDANCE TRACKING OF MUSIC STUDENTS AT REQUIRED EVENTS

Music majors attending required music events had their presence recorded on punch cards. The punch cards were thin cardboard and as such, were subject to abuse such as bending or tearing, or allowing students to add their own punches. At the end of each quarter, the cards were hand-processed, taxing a faculty member with hours of recording and writing results. Students’ instructors had to wait until quarter’s end to learn of and, if necessary, correct student progress. Our computer system replaces this archaic technology with a device that scans barcodes on students’ Central Connection cards; the data thus gathered uploads to a computer database; student attendance is then accessible immediately in online or printed reports. Faculty no longer toils in manual labor to make the system work. Instructors can be proactive, able to work with students to make up missed events as they occur.

SOMETHING MORE: TWO DIMENSIONS OF THREE DIMENSIONAL ART PRESENTATION

Historically, two-dimensional art has been at the forefront of institutional presentations of the arts at the expense of three-dimensional media. This paper will present my inquiry into institutional approaches to three-dimensional display and media hierarchy conducted winter quarter 2008 at the LA County Museum of Art and the Getty Center. Each of these institutions approaches the display of their collections with practices embracing traditional visual biases. Specifically, the practice of three-dimensional work being displayed as a complement to two-dimensional art will be addressed as well as three-dimensional artwork being displayed as two-dimensional work. This paper will also discuss cases of three-dimensional display in which the work serves as an element subordinate to the surrounding architecture. My paper demonstrates that even with separate approaches to presentation, each institution’s collection suggests that three-dimensional art is subordinate to two-dimensional work.

THE IMPORTANCE OF BEING EARNEST

“Stand by lights, sound, and actors for the start of the show” Then every one on headset, respond that they are all ready, but this is not where the process started it was many months before. You are invested in the project from the beginning. Stage Management is a skill that one possesses and can develop through practice and development of different techniques. The rhythm of each show changes but the steps one takes to get there should be made as simple as possible and document all the work so if in case of an emergency some one else could call the show for you. While working on The Importance of Being Earnest I worked on many of those skills and have developed a successful way of calling a show, running a crew, and keeping every thing on a professional level. Working with crews with different skill levels test a Stage Managers ability to explain and be a strong leader. During the show I had to incorporate crewmembers changing the sets in costumes, as well as make sure that. The Importance of Being Earnest, which had its own challenges and successes. Working with an acting company composed of fellow students as well as performance faculty, who have worked at a professional level, tests the ability to communicate. During this show I implemented the skills that I feel it takes to be a successful stage manager such as being organized, have open communication and being timely.

MEASURED EFFECTS OF COMMUNITY-BASED INQUIRY ON CRITICAL THINKING IN NON-MAJORS CHEMISTRY

Higher education faculty, business employers, and government agencies have become increasingly concerned over the inability of college graduates to think critically using analysis, inference, and evaluation skills. Prior research shows that these students are entering the workforce at a comparative disadvantage in our globalized society. Recent trends in science education at all levels emphasize a shift from traditional, teacher-centered lecture instruction to student-centered and inquiry-based learning. The basis of this change lies in developing students’ critical thinking skills while maintaining the focus on course content. As educators and researchers have begun to analyze existing literature in order to develop the most beneficial teaching style for chemistry, they have discovered that there is a large void in evidence for methods that quantifiably improve critical thinking skills. The research conducted at Central Washington University in the fall quarters of 2006 and 2007 involved determining the effect of modifying the Chemistry 101 Laboratory from traditional, “cookbook” laboratory lessons to a community-based inquiry laboratory.

WATERS IN LINCOLN ELEMENTARY FIFTH GRADE

The Yakima Watershed Activities To Enhance Research in Schools (WATERS) grant is funded by the National Science Foundation. Its goal is to enhance authentic interdisciplinary watershed research in the public schools along the Yakima River. While many units in the science lessons can be tied directly to the Yakima watershed, other units have an indirect connection. One classroom of fifth grade students at Lincoln Elementary demonstrates their work with the science of boat motion and design using the additional resources of the WATERS grant. They investigate the design qualities which ensure a boat will float and carry a load. The students learned water displacement and force dispersion as well as critical thinking skills necessary to modify and evaluate designs.

KITTITAS COUNTY LAW AND JUSTICE COUNCIL: A HISTORY

In 1994 the Washington State Legislature mandated the establishment of Law and Justice Councils for all counties in Washington State. The Board of County Commissioners created the council, and is responsible for the appointment of members, pursuant to RCW 72.09.300. The Law and Justice Council has had various missions over the years. This poster will display the missions and accomplishments of the Law and Justice Council from 1994 to 2007.

TAKE A LOOK

I choreographed an original dance for Central Washington University’s local television station for the promotion of the performance arts. I created a piece titled Take a Look in my own time, independent from school projects and assignment. My goal was to explore unique and unconventional movement as an expression of my own personality. My dance instructor, Therese Young, submitted my original work to be reviewed for presentation at the American Alliance for Health, Physical Education, Recreation and Dance Conference hosted in Fort Worth, Texas. My choreography was accepted and will be presented as part of the Gala Dance Performance at the conference. Going to this convention is a rare and excellent opportunity to expose myself to the professional world of dance, a world I plan to enter after I graduate this spring. I will be able to mingle with professional dancers and educators and make possible connections that will assist in my future endeavors. I am excited to have an opportunity to represent Central Washington’s Dance Program at the conference. This is the first time a dancer has participated in a national dance conference gala. I look forward to meeting and working with dancers from across the country.

VIETNAM 101: STAGE MANAGING THE GRAND EXPERIMENT

In fall of 2007, I served as Production Stage Manager for Vietnam 101: The War on Campus, a production put on by CWU’s Theatre Department. As the Production Stage Manager for this show, it was my job to ensure the smooth running of rehearsals and performance by using skills which I have honed during my time here. This was done through a combination of communication among team members (including both faculty and students), delegation of tasks based on the individual strengths of personnel, and swift and careful problem solving to alleviate problems which arose during the process. From a production standpoint, this was done in a uniquely organic manner. The director for this production entered the process with no set ideas on how the show would look, but rather relied on feel when it came to how this production would come to life. This made my job difficult, as it was my duty to provide some form of foundation for the entire company. One challenge which was presented based on the episodic nature of the piece and added technical element was the actual calling of cues during the run. This production called for over 530 cues over a two-hour and fifteen minute span. By dividing the workload based upon the strengths of the stage management team, the show was able to go off without any serious issues. The ability of the Stage Manager and Assistant Stage Manager to handle issues arising during performances allowed me to effectively maintain the show.

ISOLATION OF BACTERIAL VIRUSES FROM AN ALKALINE ENVIRONMENT

Virus-cell interactions are a very integral part of nature and play an important role in evolution of microbial communities. Due to their importance and versatility in replication strategies, understanding how they interact in various conditions is important. Lysogenic phage (bacterial viruses which integrate their DNA into bacterial genomes), have been postulated to drive evolution of microbial communities during periods of environmental stress. Soap Lake is an environment subject to a variety of environmental stresses, including large shifts in temperature, salinity, and pH. To date, only 2 viruses from alkaliphilic bacteria have been characterized. The goal of this study was to isolate phage from Soap Lake, and characterize them in terms of replication strategy and host range. To isolate bacterial viruses, previously isolated bacterial cultures from Soap Lake were subjected to filtered water from the lake. The filter utilized a pore size that allowed for passage of virus but not bacteria. The filtered water was mixed with the culture and growth medium then allowed to incubate for several days. After incubation, circular spaces of clearing were observed amid the confluent bacterial growth. This indicated that there were in fact viruses present that were able to utilize bacteria for replication. Characterization of these phages will include molecular analysis and determination of host range. These phages will be used in subsequent studies that address the role of phage infection during periods of environmental stress.

ELECTRONIC REALIZATION OF CHAOTIC SYSTEMS

The CWU chapter of the Society of Physics Students is investigating electronic realizations of chaotic systems. Understanding the fundamental principles that govern this behavior is sought not only for its inherent educational value, but for its applications in physics, information theory, meteorology, biology and mathematics. J.C. Sprott has reported on a class of chaotic differential equations that can, in principle, be simply realized using discrete electronic components. These circuits can be used to investigate chaotic behavior in a simple system. We will present computational and experimental data collected from one simple chaotic circuit. Our computational results include eigenvalues and eigenvectors of the Jacobian, return maps, largest Lyapunov exponents and the numerical approximation of solutions to the differential equation utilized. Our data include output voltages at different points in the circuit representing the phase space behavior of the system. A comparison between the model and collected experimental data will be provided to analyze the realization of the nonlinear differential equation.

MARVEL VS. DC (A REAL WORLD BATTLE FOR COMIC SALES)

Which publishing company (Marvel or DC) is more profitable? Investigating which company nationally profits more off their top selling titles; which company nationally sells more of its best titles; and which company locally sells more titles. Using these findings we will make a conclusion as to which company is a better choice for a comic book store to stock. This will provide helpful information for small comic stores.

A 5-YEAR POST-CASINO ECONOMIC STATUS OF NATIVE AMERICAN TRIBES

Since the Indian Gaming Regulatory Act of 1988, studies have been done on Native American tribes and their economic status following the institution of Las Vegas-style casino venues. Most have identified the positive returns of casino gaming in economic growth and establishment of necessary programs in a few years that followed use of casino gaming compacts. This literature review examines the historical documentation of tribal casino study patterns to identify whether or not the casinos improve the quality of life of tribal members as well as economic growth of the tribe overall and whether these improvements persisted at least five years past the casino’s launch. Synthesis of past literature demonstrates that many tribes flourish in ways never conceivable previously and that these improvements are maintainable past the five year mark. However, more individual tribal studies as well as a boilerplate standard for running said studies are necessary for the most thorough understanding of the effects of casino gaming on tribes.

OF NOBODIES AND WHOS: WHAT SHOULD WE CALL PEOPLE WITH MENTAL RETARDATION?

The change of terminology recently adopted by the American Association on Mental Retardation to the new title American Association on Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities is one of many in its’ history that reflects the need to change with time. The adaptation of professional terminology to cultural usage is examined here with its implications for the groups that it labels. Possible considerations in language choice are examined, historical context explored, and repercussions discussed. Limitations of language, possible political implications, and lack of vocal representation by the labeled group are distinct problems. Stigmatization through categorization may be avoided through the use of functional labels that encourage needs-based supports and individuality of people versus mass grouping.

VENTALITORY THRESHOLD AND LACTATE THRESHOLD COINCIDE USING THE DMAX METHOD

The ventilatory threshold (VT) has been used as a non-invasive technique to monitor training. The VT and the lactate threshold (LT) have been shown to coincide. Purpose: The purpose of this study was to determine if the VT correlates with the LT using the Dmax method. Methods: 22 trained male subjects 8 cyclists and 14 runners completed a single continuous incremental maximal exercise test to determine individual lactate profiles. During the maximal exercise test, oxygen consumption (VO2), minute ventilation, and blood lactate were measured. Blood samples were collected at rest, post-warm-up, at the end of each exercise stage and at maximal exercise. Pearson’s Correlation Coefficient was used to determine the relationship between the LT and VT. A Paired t test was used to determine differences between the two measures. Results: The VT and LT were significantly correlated (r=0.91; p<0.05). The paired t test indicated a non-significant (p=0.42) difference in VO2 determination between the VT and LT. When the initial lactate concentration was removed from the determination of the LT, there was a significant difference (p<0.05) in VO2. The LT and VT were not significantly different (p=0.11) even with the elimination of the initial lactate concentration. Conclusion: These results, using both runners and cyclists, indicate that the VT determined by the Dmax method can be used as a non-invasive technique to determine the LT.

DISCUSSION IN THE AGE OF APATHY: THE CONCERNS OF AN ACTIVE MIND

In the modern era we avoid discussing many controversial topics such as religion, politics, and ethical issues out of concern of being “politically incorrect.” As a result we have raised a generation of minds who avoid living an examined life. By discouraging a generation from examining these controversial issues we have brought neo-Hegelians like Francis Fukuyama’s prediction of the end of history nearly into reality. Fukuyama’s prediction comes not at an age of transcendent understanding, as predicted by Hegel, but instead at a time of smothering mediocrity. We have a moral imperative to find a form of understanding conducive to an atmosphere of enlightened discussion in order to prevent the death of new ideas. If we do not change and herald in an atmosphere of enlightened discussion then we will prove the neo-Hegelians like Francis Fukuyama correct in the somber prediction of the death of the ideological evolution. We will end not at Hegel’s zenith but at a false plateau created by this generation’s apathy.

THE SNAKE RIVER PLATEAU: 1805 AD - 1900 AD

In 1805, the native peoples (Shoshone) of the Snake River Plateau hardly thought that when they discovered a half starved and desperate group of strange white men who had wandered into their valley, they would administer any aid to the desperate group. Fortunately for the travelers, known as the Corpse of Discovery led by the famed Lewis and Clark, their hired native guide (Sacagawea) happened to be the sister of the then Shoshone Chief. Thankful for the reunion of the Chiefs sister, the Shoshones consented to saving the company from starvation and continued to aid them in their endeavors. This pivotal day in history marked the beginning of the contact period between the Shoshone people of the Snake River Plateau and the encroaching waves of European settlers who were heralded by the Corpse of Discovery. This poster is a presentation of the contact period (1805 AD-1900 AD) between the people of the Snake River Plateau (Shoshone and later Shoshone-Bannock) and expanding European culture and peoples. The contact period, as presented, entails a brief description of initial contact, assimilation, conquest, and post-conquest of the Shoshone and Shoshone-Bannock with European culture.

MOZI'S PHILOSOPHY OF UNIVERSAL LOVE PROVIDES A MEANS FOR ELIMINATING POVERTY AND ACHIEVING WORLD PEACE IN CONTEMPORARY SOCIETY

In Contemporary American society, Mozi's Universal Love is a more practical means for eliminating poverty and achieving world peace than is Confucian Love with Distinction. Chinese Philosopher, Mozi, lived about 2,500 years ago during the Warring States Period in China. Small kingdoms were continually fighting with each other, and poverty was endemic. Mozi devoted his life to rectifying these two problems. Mozi believed that if we love everyone equally, then we don't show favoritism. Discrimination, racism, exploitation, war, and inequality of all kinds are immediately eliminated. The Confucian model, in which one loves one's own family first and gradually extends love to others, actually serves to increase the problems of war and poverty. Mozi's idea of Universal Love solves those problems. When we love everyone equally, we act only in ways which benefit others. We will look at how this can be practically applied in our every day lives to increase the peace and well-being of all citizens of the earth.

BUDDY UP!

Buddy Up: A Program Description of the Pilot of the After School Buddies Program. The After School Buddy program was initiated by a local health program professional and university professor to answer community need and parent request for social and recreational opportunities for children with disabilities. The inaugural program was Winter Quarter, 2008. Students from the Central Washington Department of Education planned and executed programming for eight weeks. Students with disabilities ranging in age from six to fifteen participated in social, craft, recreational and educational activities. Non-disabled peer buddies also attended the sessions. This poster will examine the progress of the initial program sessions, describe the outcomes for participants, and reflect on the benefits for the larger community.

WIND INTERMITTENCY AND POLICY: IMPLICATIONS FOR EFFICIENT ELECTRICITY PROVISION

Wind is an intermittent source of electricity, meaning that generation output fluctuates in accordance with natural wind levels. Intermittency poses a unique set of implications for grid integration, with associated economic costs. Inaccurate—or lack of—consideration and representation of these costs in markets and policy results in economic distortions, with corresponding investment signals. Comparative case studies are performed in New York and Washington States which consider the ways these costs are: (1) mechanically integrated into, and (2) considered in the formulation of market and policy (mainly state Renewable Portfolio Standards) design, in terms of qualitative implications for economic distortions. The central issues are (1) assessment of intermittency costs for a region, and the importance of differential analysis of wind development scenarios in terms of geographic scale as well as scale of production, and (2) promotion of efficient electricity provision through market and policy design that effectively incorporates intermittency costs.

DOES VISUAL IMAGERY ACTIVITY AID NARRATIVE WRITING USING THE 6+1 TRAIT WRITING SYSTEM RUBRICS?

After working with the Office of the Superintendent of Public Instruction (OSPI) Writing Standards (GLE-EALR’s) and noting how drawing and writing are highly integrated in the early years, the question arose: is there a difference when pre-service teachers write in-class narratives using visual imagery before or after the writing. Two matched classes of students in a Language Arts class for Elementary teacher candidates were given a two-hour in-class assignment to either draw their ideas and then write a story or write a story and then create a drawing about it. Three independent individuals graded the papers: the class instructor, a university administrator with interests in quality writing, and a graduate assistant interested in literacy issues. The findings showed higher scores on the rubrics of those who did the drawings, first. The students who wrote narratives after putting their ideas in a drawing had more action, character description, scoring higher in all of the sections of the rubrics. Students who did the drawing after the writing used more stereotypical and general descriptions, fewer details of adjectives and adverbs, fewer lively action verbs, and their drawings were not detailed. Also, college aged students are often very sensitive about their drawing abilities. However, comments made later show deeper insights than scores alone.

THE MORAL DEFINITION OF ART: WHY ANDY WARHOL’S CAMPBELL SOUP CANS ARE NOT ART

To ask the question of whether Andy Warhol’s Campbell’s Soup I is art requires that we define art or the function of art. Currently many people try to define art by using different theories like formalism or expressivism. These theories propose corrupting art to be art, even though it diminishes of virtues. This is extremely dangerous because art has a large influence on society and diminishing of virtue is destructive to society. A reasoning society’s existence is more morally important than the existence of certain “art” pieces. By drawing on Plato’s political philosophy, this paper demonstrates that art must be re-defined in order to maintain a moral society. The definition of art is a moral question, not a question of what an artist can produce. As a result, Andy Warhol’s Campbell’s Soup I is not art because his piece corrupts a virtuous society by discouraging knowledge and favoring imitations.

PROPAGANDA AND PLATO’S INVITATION: A CORRUPTIVE INFLUENCE IN THE STATE’S MISUSE OF ART

Plato stressed that art should be highly regulated by the state. However, this philosophy is dangerous because the level of authority given to the state leaves no room for the individual in a given society to keep the state in check-especially in its regulation of art. Through the examples of Nazi and American propaganda, institutionalized sexism, as well as others, I will explain how corrupt states have abused authority in the regulation of art, and how this idea of authority was instilled into the states from Plato’s philosophy of art. I will also explain how authority should be given to the people of the state rather than exclusively the authorities of the state. This paper will demonstrate that there is something wrong with Plato’s idea that the state should hold all responsibility in the regulation of art.

CRIES FROM THE "SIDE CHAPEL": CREATIVE NONFICTION AS GENRE, DISCOURSE & PERSPECTIVE

This paper explores the current status of Creative Nonfiction as both a genre in literature and a discourse in academe. Applying relevant elements of contemporary genre theory and the Bakhtinian notion of dialogic discourse, this exploration provides an understanding of Creative Nonfiction not only as a genre or a discourse, but as a valuable perspective, in and of itself. This perspective is valuable in that it offers writers and readers avenues of expression and understanding beyond the ideological boundaries of genre and discourse that might otherwise define their literary or academic realities.

INVESTIGATING MOLECULAR EVOLUTION IN THE CHLOROPLAST GENOMES OF CYCADS

Sequence comparisons performed between genomes of closely related species allow for the best conclusions to be drawn concerning DNA evolution. The plant’s chloroplast genome is a circular molecule with four parts: the large and small single copies (LSC, SSC) and the two inverted repeats (IR). In comparison to the nuclear or mitochondrial genomes, the chloroplast genome evolves more slowly, making mutations easier to characterize in evolutionary analyses. An investigation of mutation rates for the four parts in closely related legumes by Perry and Wolfe (2002) showed an increase in the mutation rate in former IR genes when one IR copy is lost, suggesting that the lower rate commonly found in the IR is reliant on the presence of two copies, not simply on particular genes found in the IR. Now, adding to the legume example, we have the opportunity to further investigate the effect of the IR on DNA evolution, as four completely sequenced cycad chloroplast genomes are available, including Dioon edule that has lost over 20,000 base pairs of its IR and consequently shows an increase in mutation rates for former IR genes. The cycads, being long-lived gymnosperms, provide an interesting contrast to the short-lived, angiosperm legumes that exhibit the increase in mutation rate. In addition to investigating rates of mutation in the presence and absence of the IR, mutation biases within compartments, identification of genes undergoing selection and possible applications to functional biology are being addressed using close sequence comparisons within the cycads.

APPLICATION OF GIS MAPPING AT EL MARCIANO, MICHOAC&AACUTE;N, MEXICO

In partnership with the Purépecha comunidad (Parangaricutiro - San Juan Nuevo, Michoacán), we have mapped a series of mound structures. These stone-faced earth mounds, called Yacata, are thought to be associated with Late Classic or Postclassic settlement (AD 700 to 1450). Some mounds are roughly circular and range between 5 and 15 meters in diameter. Other mounds are oval and can be as much as 15 meters in width and over 25 meters in length. Most mounds stand between 2 and 5 meters above the present surface. Our mapping of the Yacata at the site, covering almost a full square kilometer, shows distinct groupings of mounds as well as possible alignments of mounds. These alignments have been investigated in order to test possible astronomical positioning. Test excavations reveal a sequence of volcanic ash falls and sparse occupation debris spanning 6000 years. We will share some working hypotheses about the form, function and age of the mound features.

CAMERA VIRTUA

Camera Virtua is a performance-based documentary project that argues for identity as a socio-aesthetic hybrid in an attempt to explain representations of self through the visual language of virtual realities. Through my work in the virtual reality known as Second Life, I have explored, and captured on visual record, this socially constructed universe. According to its website, Second Life is “a 3-D virtual world entirely built and owned by its residents." The topography of Second Life, therefore, is entirely socially constructed, and references the plurality of values characteristic of its over one million residents. To accomplish this, I created a virtual alter ego, or avatar, and built a photography studio in Second Life (Elysium Photographic Studios). My avatar is a social documentarian that dismantles the seemingly endless categorization of photographic practices (i.e. landscape, portrait, commercial, fine art, etc.), while simultaneously privileging the dynamic manifestations of their subjective qualifiers. The aim of which is to exaggerate and emphasize the dilemma of this false dualism through the creation of photographic prints captured from within the realm of virtual realities. As part of this ongoing, performance-based project, I was fortunate to have collaborated with CWU professor Brian Goeltzenleuchter as a participant in the 2007 Pingyao International Photography Festival that occurred last summer in Pingyao, China.

ESTIMATING LANDSCAPE RESILIENCY OF THE WESTBERG AND BOY SCOUT TRAILS

Today, only about 30% of eastern Washington’s historic shrub-steppe still remains. A large majority of this remaining shrub-steppe is located in Kittitas and Yakima counties. The Westberg Trail and the Boy Scout Trail are two popular recreation trails for tourists and locals in Kittitas County and are located right in the middle of prime shrub-steppe habitat. Everyday, the trails are heavily used for by hikers, horseback riders, and mountain bikers. The purpose of this study was to estimate the resiliency of the physical landscape on and surrounding the Westberg and Boy Scout hiking trails to aid in future management decisions of the area. A weighted overlay analysis using ArcGIS was conducted to identify the strongest and weakest resiliency areas in the hiking landscape. The following variables: slope, aspect, soil erosion potential, and vegetation were masked/clipped to the study area and re-classified before running the weighted overlay. Areas with a south facing aspect exhibited the lowest erosion potentials, more vegetation, and a higher resiliency towards landscape impact. In the future, with a more adequate time-frame, a much more detailed analysis for the Westberg and Boy Scout trails can be conducted.

VOICES OF THE WASTE LAND

T. S. Eliot’s poetic masterpiece, The Waste Land, is a complex, enigmatic work. Eliot lends to the poem’s nuances by speaking not simply from a narrative perspective, but by subtly weaving multiple dialogues into the verse itself. The most prominent voices of The Waste Land’s polyphony are that of Marie, Viv, and Tiresias. Through these characters the reader is made to feel more personally connected to the emotion in the poem, and the work’s predominate [dominant] themes of loss, despair, and emptiness can be clearly understood. Marie speaks of lost happiness in her past, and an inescapable, barren future. Viv represents confusion at the hopelessness of life, Eliot’s own failing marriage, and correspondingly, his failing hope for the future. Tiresias unifies the anguish of all the poem’s voices by relating a vision that makes clear humankind’s apathy and the lack of meaning in life itself. The voices of The Waste Land unify the poem, and express to the reader Eliot’s own pain and his concern for a war-ravaged generation. Much like the chorus of Greek drama, the voices in Eliot’s work guide the reader through the action and the emotion entangled in the verses.

THE SELFISHNESS OF POWERFUL WOMEN

Literature has often portrayed women as selfish, power hungry characters. The examples are abundant and the motive is the same. They aim to increase their power by taking advantage of people close to them. Aurora in The Moor’s Last Sigh uses Abraham and Moraes to further herself, which in turn causes them pain. Beatrice in The Divine Comedy tricks Virgil and Dante into trusting her so she can let out her anger and increase her presence. And the Wife of Bath in The Canterbury Tales uses her sexuality to manipulate men into giving her their worldly possessions. All actions are calculated and they use their growing power to obtain greater status. Their success lies in their approachable exterior, which they use to further their goal and lull people into a false sense of security.

INVESTIGATING THE GREEN PLAGUE: AN EXAMINATION OF THE PHYSIOLOGICAL CONSEQUENCES OF CHYTRID INFECTION IN NORTHWEST AMPHIBIANS

The fungus Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis (Bd) has been linked to the decline of amphibians worldwide. Research has been devoted to examining the range and prevalence of Bd; however, little is known about how it causes mortality. In addition, the sensitivity of Northwest amphibians has not been investigated. Therefore, we investigated the physiological changes that occur during infection in two Northwest amphibians: Northern Leopard Frogs (Rana pipiens) and Pacific Treefrogs (Hyla regilla). We examined the pathogens effect on metabolic rate and osmotic balance. Fourteen individuals of each species were screened for Bd using light microscopy and each individual was housed separately to avoid cross-contamination. Over the course of the 109-day experiment individuals were monitored for symptoms, and weighed. In addition, metabolic rates were monitored throughout the experiment using flow-through respirometry. There were not any significant physiological changes attributable to infection with the fungus. Mail ordered Rana pipiens may be a source of the spread of Bd and we urge containment of potentially infected individuals. Also, individuals survived an average of over 100 days with infection suggesting that these species may not be susceptible to the pathogen.

ITRACONAZOL FAILS TO CLEAR CHYTRID INFECTION IN NORTHERN LEOPARD FROGS (RANA PIPIENS)

Northern Leopard frogs (Rana pipiens) are critically threatened with extinction in Washington. During 2007, only two adult individuals were detected in Washington. The fungus Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis (Bd) has been detected in R. pipiens and may be contributing to the decline of the species. Recent studies suggest that the fungicide itraconazol can clear chytrid infection in dendrobatid frogs. However, the effectiveness of this fungicide in other species is unknown. In addition, the physiological consequences of treatment with the fungicide are also unknown. Therefore, we investigated the effectiveness of this drug and the metabolic consequences associated with its use. Twenty-one R. pipiens were divided into three groups: a five-minute treatment group, a thirty-minute treatment group and an infected control. The animals were housed separately and their metabolic rates were monitored using flow-through respirometry three times during the three-week study. Measurements of mass were taken at weekly intervals. The results of the experiment suggest treatment with itraconazol was not effective in treating infection. In both treatment groups the fungicide failed to clear infection. Also, there were no significant metabolic consequences of the treatment with this drug. Therefore, treatment of chytrid infection in Rana pipiens with itraconazol is not recommended.

AVIATION, CONSTRUCTION, ENGINEERING AND SAFETY (ACES) CAREER ACADEMY FOR YOUNG WOMEN

I created an opportunity for young women between the ages of 13 to 17 to explore their potential as future professionals in these fields. Between 28 and 36 girls participated each year from 2004 to 2007. CWU faculty and students, as well as industry sponsors and volunteers also participated in the camps. Student and faculty participation integrated academic service learning/civic engagement into the camp. This academy provided hands on learning experiences and activities to spark career interest in these fields. Participants stay in residence halls and had a chance to take a flight lesson, engineer a device, operate a backhoe, clean up a mock-hazardous waste spill, design and test launch water rockets, use Global Positioning System (GPS) for a treasure hunt, and build an original project. In 2006 the ACES camp was presented with the Excellence in Construction Education Award presented by the Washington State Construction Workforce Conference. Currently, CWU GEAR UP program sponsors ethnic minority girls, girls from low income families, and potential first-generation college students. Our goal is to increase the number of young women who choose to pursue education and enter the workforce in these technical fields. Women are under represented in these programs at Washington State universities, and the camp serves to create an appreciation for these fields as well as a recruiting venue for these CWU programs. This is an inter-disciplinary project co-sponsored by the Industrial and Engineering Technology and Aviation Departments.

SEXUAL SIZE DIMORPHISM OF THE NORTHERN PACIFIC RATTLESNAKE IN CENTRAL WASHINGTON

Sexual size dimorphism (SSD) is common in many vertebrates, ranging from reptiles to humans. In some species males tend to be larger than females, and in others, the opposite case is true. While in many snake families, such as boas and pythons, females tend to be larger than males, in most rattlesnakes, males tend to be larger than females. We investigated the extent to which the Northern Pacific Rattlesnake (Crotalus viridus oreganus) shows this trend. In an ongoing mark-recapture study, we used data collected from several hibernicula in Central Washington to test the hypothesis that males tend to grow larger than females, as well as determining at what point males and females might diverge. To test our hypotheses, we compared snout-vent length (SVL), tail length (TL), body mass (M), and rattle width (RW). Previous studies have shown that there is a strong correlation between rattle width, and SVL Since rattlesnakes gain a rattle segment each time they shed their skin, a history of growth over the last 3-8 years is preserved in the rattle of individuals with intact rattles. We observed and compared growth rates in both sexes, and determined the approximate divergence point where SSD begins. It appears that there is no SSD in neonates and juveniles, but that SSD begins to develop as individuals reach maturity.

LEIBNIZ’S VIEW OF FREEDOM: POSSIBLE WITH A GOD?

In this paper I am examining Leibniz’s view on freedom and free will as he expresses it in the Discourse on Metaphysics. Leibniz would like to be able to say that God has instilled in us everything about who we are and what our actions are to be, but also that we have a free will. In this presentation, I will demonstrate how Leibniz’s argument for freedom falls into a Theological Fatalist trap and also that our very own concept of freedom manages to complicate his position even further. Leibniz’s theory of freedom is flawed because it assumes that having the capacity for freedom is the same as experiencing freedom. While Leibniz likes to say we have the capacity for freedom, the fact is if we deviate from God’s design as it was intended we are not the person we were meant to be. Therefore, we can never choose to do otherwise than what is predetermined. Again, Leibniz’s argument for a God that knows a person’s entire future leaves him in the Theological fatalist trap, which has at its core the concept that with infallible prior knowledge (such as God’s knowledge) of a human act makes those acts necessary and therefore not a free choice or an act of free will. Leibniz offers no arguments to satisfactorily combat this position. As I will show, if we follow Leibniz’s argument, the only freedom that we will have is the choice to exist or not exist. If we allow for an all-knowing God as Leibniz would like, we are onl