2011-2012 scholar/fellow student journal

NASA / OHIO SPACE GRANT

CONSORTIUM

2011-2012

SCHOLAR / FELLOW

STUDENT JOURNAL

Students Representing Ohio

Congressional Districts

TABLE OF CONTENTS Page(s)

Table of Contents .................................................................................................................. 2-4

Description of Fellowship and Scholarship Program ...............................................................5

Membership ..............................................................................................................................6

Ohio Congressional Map ..........................................................................................................7

Fellows University Page(s)

Bradford, Robyn L. ..................................University of Dayton.............................................21

Charvat, Robert C. ................................ University of Cincinnati ..........................................16

Cotto-Figueroa, Desirée ............................... Ohio University ........................................... 10-11

Foster, Daniel R. E. ............................. The Ohio State University .................................. 12-13

Gerlach, Adam R. ................................. University of Cincinnati ..........................................17

Guzman, Nicole D. ............................. The Ohio State University .................................. 14-15

Jennings, Alan L. .....................................University of Dayton.............................................22

Knapke, Robert D. ................................ University of Cincinnati ..........................................18

Stahl, Brian J. ................................. Case Western Reserve University .....................................8

Studmire, Brittany M. M. .................... Cleveland State University ..........................................9

Williams, Charles P. ............................. University of Cincinnati .................................... 19-20

Scholars College/University Page(s)

Adams, Christopher A. .......................... Wilberforce University ...........................................82

Ash, Stephanie D. ................................ Ohio Northern University .........................................56

Balderson, Aaron M. ................................... Marietta College ................................................45

Barga, Alena M. ................................... The University of Toledo .........................................65

Bendula, Laura M. ..................................... Miami University ...............................................49

Black, Winston L., II ................................University of Dayton.............................................76

Boothe, Matthew C. .................................... Marietta College ................................................47

Bourne, Harrison W. .................................. Miami University ...............................................54

Brant, Garrick M. .............................. Youngstown State University ......................................89

Brinson, Tanisha M. ............................... Wilberforce University ...........................................78

Brooks, Chellvie L. ............................... Central State University ..........................................38

Bryant, Rachel L. .................................. Wright State University ..........................................84

Burse-Wooten, Beatrice M. .................. Central State University ..........................................39

Davidoff, Robert W. ................................University of Dayton.............................................72

DiBenedetto, Joseph M. ............................... Ohio University .................................................61

Edwards, Kristen D. .............................. Central State University ..........................................35

Endicott, Derick S. ............................... Ohio Northern University .........................................57

Ernst, Meike H. .............................. Case Western Reserve University ...................................23

Garasky, Martha E. .................................... Miami University ...............................................50

Garland, Aubrey A. ........................... Youngstown State University ......................................90

Gowker, Benita I. .................................. Wright State University ..........................................87

Gras, Courtney A. ................................. The University of Akron ..........................................63

Hall, Pierre A. ....................................... The University of Akron ..........................................62

Haraway, Malcolm X. ............................ Wilberforce University ...........................................79

Hatcher, Kevin M. ................................. Wright State University ..........................................88

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Scholars College/University Page(s)

Houck, James P. .......................................... Marietta College ................................................48

Irvin, Jasmine N. .................................... Wilberforce University ...........................................80

Issa, Hadil R. ............................................University of Dayton.............................................73

Johnson, Candace A. ............................. Central State University ..........................................36

Jones, Nicholas S. ................................ Ohio Northern University .........................................59

Kakish, Carmen Z. ......................... Case Western Reserve University ...................................29

Karnes, Michael P. ..................................... Miami University ...............................................55

Kemp, Evan R. .........................................University of Dayton....................................... 74-75

Kendall, Isiah A. ................................... Wright State University ..........................................85

Kingen, Logan M. ................................ Ohio Northern University .........................................60

Kirievich, Krista M. .............................. University of Cincinnati ..........................................67

Lai, Stephen E. ........................................... Miami University ...............................................51

Masters, Jennifer E. ..................................... Marietta College ................................................46

Mayhew, Eric K. ............................ Case Western Reserve University ...................................24

McGee, Amanda G. .............................. University of Cincinnati ..........................................68

Mitchener, Michelle M. .......................... Cedarville University ............................................30

Montion, Joseph P. ............................... The University of Toledo .........................................66

Morris, Nathaniel J. ............................... Central State University ..........................................37

Nichols, Justin S. ..................................... Cedarville University ............................................33

Roberts, Dominique N. ......................... Central State University ..........................................40

Sadey, David J. ................................... Cleveland State University ........................................41

Scheidegger, Carré D. ......................... Cleveland State University ........................................42

Seitz, Ciara C. ..................................... Cleveland State University ........................................43

Sink, Matthan B. ................................... Wright State University ..........................................86

Sinko, Robert A. ........................................ Miami University ......................................... 52-53

Smith, Matthew G. ............................... Ohio Northern University .........................................58

Sollmann, Leslie A. ..................................University of Dayton.............................................77

Szczecinski, Nicholas S. ................ Case Western Reserve University ...................................25

Taugir, Usaaman ................................... The University of Akron ..........................................64

Tillie, Charles F. ................................. Cleveland State University ........................................44

Vick, Tyler J. ......................................... University of Cincinnati ..........................................70

Walker, Alex R. .................................... University of Cincinnati ..........................................71

Watson, Erkai L. ..................................... Cedarville University ............................................34

Webster, Victoria A. ...................... Case Western Reserve University ............................. 26-27

Williams, Mahogany M. ........................ Wilberforce University ...........................................83

Williams, Michael D. ............................. Wilberforce University ...........................................81

Wo, Chung Y. ................................ Case Western Reserve University ...................................28

Wukie, Nathan A. ................................. University of Cincinnati ..........................................69

Yeh, Benjamin D. ................................... Cedarville University ...................................... 31-32

Community College Scholars Community College Page(s)

Conley, Darren M. ...................... Columbus State Community College ................................91

Johnson, Phillip E. ........................... Cuyahoga Community College .....................................93

Munguia, Gerald A. ...........................Sinclair Community College.......................................94

Oty, Leah M. ............................... Columbus State Community College ................................92

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Education Scholars College/University Page(s)

Bennett, Heather M. .............................. University of Cincinnati ........................................105

Bishop, Cory M. ................................... The University of Toledo .......................................103

Carlson, Audra D. . ............................ Youngstown State University ....................................110

Furman, Brea R. .................................... University of Cincinnati ........................................106

Gill, Anna J. ................................................ Marietta College ................................................98

Horrigan, Emily S. .............................. Cleveland State University ........................................96

Iliff, Christopher J. ............................... Ohio Northern University .......................................100

Kish, Charles D. ................................ Youngstown State University ....................................109

Lyon, Jennifer J. ...................................... Cedarville University ............................................95

Miller, Caroline I. ...................................... Miami University ...............................................99

Reilly, Kathryn R. ................................. Wright State University ........................................107

Rischar, Stephanie A. .......................... Cleveland State University ........................................97

Solomon, Steven E. .............................. The University of Toledo .......................................104

Tocchi, Zachary M. ............................... The University of Akron ........................................102

White, Marcia J. .................................... Wright State University ........................................108

Zook, Caitlin M. ................................... Ohio Northern University .......................................101

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FELLOWSHIP AND SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAM The Ohio Space Grant Consortium (OSGC), a member of the NASA National Space Grant College and Fellowship Program, awards graduate fellowships and undergraduate scholarships to students working toward degrees in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) disciplines at OSGC-member universities. The awards are made to United States citizens, and the students are competitively selected. Since the inception of the program in 1989, 847 undergraduate scholarships and 148 graduate fellowships have been awarded. Matching funds are provided by the member universities, the Ohio Aerospace Institute (OAI), and private industry. Note that this year approximately $600,000 will be directed to scholarships and fellowships representing contributions from NASA, the Ohio Aerospace Institute, member universities, and industry. By helping more students to graduate with STEM-related degrees, OSGC provides more qualified technical employees to industry. At the Doctoral level, students have a government co-advisor in addition to their faculty mentor, and perform research at one of the following Ohio federal laboratories: NASA Glenn Research Center or the Air Force Research Laboratory at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base. The research conducted for the Master’s and Doctoral degrees must be of interest to NASA. A prime aspect of the scholarship program is the undergraduate research project that the student performs under the mentorship of a faculty member. This research experience is effective in encouraging U. S. undergraduate students to attend graduate school in STEM. The Education scholarship recipients are required to attend a workshop conducted by NASA personnel where they are exposed to NASA educational materials for use in their future classrooms.

Affiliate Members Participating Universities Air Force Institute of Technology Marietta College The University of Akron Youngstown State University Case Western Reserve University Cedarville University Central State University Cleveland State University Community Colleges University of Dayton Columbus State Community College Miami University Cuyahoga Community College Ohio Northern University Lakeland Community College The Ohio State University Lorain County Community College Ohio University Owens Community College The University of Toledo Sinclair Community College Wilberforce University Terra Community College Wright State University

Ohio Space Grant Consortium 22800 Cedar Point Road Cleveland, Ohio 44142

http://www.osgc.org/

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MEMBERSHIP

Management

Dr. Gary L. Slater

Director

Ohio Space Grant Consortium

University of Cincinnati

Dr. Gerald T. Noel, Sr.

Associate Director


Central State University

Ms. Laura A. Stacko

Program Manager


Ms. Arela B. Leidy

Program Assistant


Member Institutions Dr. Jonathan T. Black

Air Force Institute of Technology

Dr. Jaikrishnan R. Kadambi

Case Western Reserve University

Dr. Robert Chasnov, P. E.

Cedarville University

Dr. Gerald T. Noel, Sr.

Central State University

Ms. Pamela C. Charity-Leeke

Cleveland State University

Dr. Timothy Cameron

Miami University

Dr. Jed E. Marquart, P. E.

Ohio Northern University

Dr. Füsun Özgüner

The Ohio State University

Dr. Shawn Ostermann

Ohio University

Dr. Craig C. Menzemer

The University of Akron

Dr. Gary L. Slater

University of Cincinnati

Dr. John G. Weber

University of Dayton

Dr. Lesley M. Berhan

The University of Toledo

Dr. Edward Asikele

Wilberforce University

Dr. P. Ruby Mawasha

Wright State University

Participating Institutions Dr. Ben W. Ebenhack

Marietta College

Dr. Hazel Marie

Youngstown State University

Community Colleges Professor Jeffery M. Woodson

Columbus State Community College

Dr. Donna Moore-Ramsey Cuyahoga Community College

Dr. Frederick W. Law

Lakeland Community College

Dr. George Pillainayagam

Lorain County Community College

Ms. Tamara Williams

Owens Community College

Dr. Roger W. Abernathy

Sinclair Community College

Dr. James Bighouse

Terra Community College

Industry Sponsors •ArcelorMittal

•Cornerstone Research Group, Inc.

•Etegent Technologies

•L-3 Cincinnati Electronics (CE)

•Sierra Lobo

•Space Explorers, Inc.

•The TRW Foundation

•ZIN Technologies, Inc.

Lead Institution Ms. Ann O. Heyward

Ohio Aerospace Institute

Government Liaisons Ms. Darla J. Jones

NASA Glenn Research Center

Dr. M. David Kankam


Ms. Susan M. Kohler


Mr. Wayne Donaldson

Air Force Research Laboratory

Ms. Dovie E. Lacey


Ms. Kathleen A. Levine

Wright-Patterson Air Force Base

Ms. Alice Fay Noble


Ms. Kathleen Schweinfurth


Education Outreach Partners

Mr. Constantine Regas

Cincinnati Observatory Center

Ms. Pamela Bowers

Drake Planetarium & Science Center

Ms. Linda A. Neenan

iSPACE, Inc.

Dr. Jay N. Reynolds

Cleveland State University

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OHIO CONGRESSIONAL MAP

Source: http://www.sos.state.oh.us/SOS/upload/elections/maps/OEcongressDist.pdf

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http://www.sos.state.oh.us/SOS/upload/elections/maps/OEcongressDist.pdf

FELLOWS

Case Western ReserveBrian J. Stahl

11thCongressional District(s):

Marcia L. FudgeCongressional Representative(s):

Factors Influencing Thermal Stability and Performance in Foil Thrust Bearings

Research Topic:

Master's 1, Aerospace EngineeringStatus:

Dr. Joseph M. PrahlAdvisor(s):

Biography: Brian is pursuing a Master’s Degree in Aerospace Engineering from Case Western Reserve University in Cleveland, Ohio. He graduated summa cum laude with a Bachelor of Science in Engineering from Case Western in May, 2011. Brian is a student in the combined degree BS/MS Program and majored in both Aerospace and Mechanical Engineering as an undergraduate.

Born and raised in Erie, Pennsylvania, Brian spent two summers as an engineering intern in research and development withEriez Manufacturing Co., a company specializing in magnetic separation. He was responsible for redesigning several products to meet design requirements for Eriez customers globally. More recently, he worked two summers at the NASA Glenn Research Center as a LERCIP (Lewis' Educational and Research Collaborative Internship Project) intern through theOhio Aerospace Institute. His experimental observations in foil bearing research, with guidance and support from the Tribology and Mechanical Components branch (RXN), laid the foundation for his Master’s research. Brian has been workingwith Dr. Joseph M. Prahl on foil bearings since January, 2010.

Abstract: Foil bearings are self-acting, gas lubricated bearings which are tolerant to misalignment and dynamic loads. At speeds above a minimum liftoff speed, a thin lubricating film of gas develops. This pressurized fluid supports the load on thebearing and separates the two moving surfaces. The standard foil thrust bearing test articles are composed of a rigid backing plate which holds the top foils and their underlying compliant bump foil support structure. A runner rotates relative to the bearing and, through viscous drag, draws gas into the gap between the top foil and runner. Thrust bearings constrainmotion along the axis of rotation, while journal bearings constrain motion orthogonal to this axis. Foil journal bearings do not have a speed limit, as is found in oil lubricated bearings; the load a foil journal bearing can support increases with speed. In contrast, foil thrust bearings reach a maximum load capacity, and further increases in speed often degrade the load capacity. This is thought to be due to poor thermal management in the bearing. At high speeds, it is hypothesized thathigh enthalpy gas, which develops from the viscous shear at the solid surfaces, is carried directly into the next pad. Eventually this heat causes thermal deflections, which degrade the load capacity of the bearing.

This research focuses on extending the performance map for bearings with known geometries. To this point, most foil bearings use a proprietary substructure design. Publication of a performance map for bearings with an open source designwill allow for the validation of numerical models. Additionally, this research will characterize the high speed performance degradation seen in foil thrust bearings. Knowledge of the maximum load and the speed at which it occurs for a known geometry will help guide fluid dynamics theories on the root cause. The research also has applications to design, as those sizing thrust bearings for high speed applications must account for the performance drop and not extrapolate from low speed data.

Publications: None yet.

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Cleveland StateBrittany M. M. Studmire



Optimization of Digestate as a Nutrient Source for Large Scale Algae Biofuel Growth

Research Topic:

Master's 1, Chemical/Biomedical EngineeringStatus:

Dr. Joanne Belovich, Dr. Bilal Mark McDowell BomaniAdvisor(s):

Biography: I am a second year Master’s student in the Chemical and Biomedical Engineering Department at Cleveland State University. I obtained my Bachelor of Science in Chemical Engineering in May of 2011 on a full scholarship from Cleveland State University. I have had the pleasure of being an OSGC scholar and fellow for the past 5 years. My area of research has been focused on algae as an alternative biofuel source, and it has been my privilege to conduct research withDr. Joanne Belovich for such companies as Algaeventure and NASA Glenn Research Center. My dream is to one day see our dependence on foreign oil be completely replaced with a sustainable, renewable, alternative fuel source.

Abstract: The need for a sustainable fuel has become more apparent over the years as concerns about the limited amounts of crude oil continue to increase. One such source of a sustainable alternative fuel is microalgae. The standard 3N-BBM media that the Scenedesmus dimorphous algae strain is currently grown in is not feasible on a large industrial scale due to high chemical costs. Thus a more cost effective nutrient source is needed. The use of digestate as a possiblesource of nutrients for algal growth was proposed. Small-scale laboratory experiments were done to determine the minimumconcentration of digestate in water that would help maximize biomass recovery and lipid content. Current testing is now geared towards reproducing these results in a larger-scaled, self-sustainable, renewable energy ecosystem.


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Ohio UniversityDesireé Cotto-Figueroa


Bill JohnsonCongressional Representative(s):

Radiation Recoil Effects on the Dynamical Evolution of AsteroidsResearch Topic:

Doctoral 1, Astrophysics/Physics/AstronomyStatus:

Thomas S. StatlerAdvisor(s):

Biography: I have always shown a great interest in science and mathematics and by the time that I was in high school, I knew that astronomy was my passion. As an undergraduate student in the University of Puerto Rico, I was a NASA PuertoRico Space Grant Consortium Fellow and conducted a research project about measurements of separation and position angle of binary stars. For the summer of 2005 I was selected for a R.E.U. program at the University of Hawaii to study the habitability of the 55 Cancri extrasolar planetary system. I graduated Cum Laude from the University of Puerto Rico in 2006with a B.S. Degree in Applied Physics (Electronics). In 2008 I obtained an M.S. Degree in Astrophysics from Ohio University with a thesis title “The Rotation Rate Distribution of Near-Earth Asteroids (NEAs)”.

Currently, I’m a Ph.D. candidate at Ohio University. I was a NASA Jenkins Predoctoral Fellow from 2008 to 2011 and had the enlightening opportunity of working at the Jet Propulsion Laboratory to study radiation recoil effects on orbits of NEAs.Astronomy will always be a great passion for me, one that motivates me to continue studying and to give more of myself, not only at the academic level but also on the professional level. I know that being an Ohio Space Grant Consortium Fellowtogether with my efforts and determination will take me to my goal of obtaining my Ph.D. degree. Once I finish my graduatestudies I want to be a Post Doctoral Researcher, preferably at a NASA center, in order to expand my knowledge, further develop my skills and accomplish my ultimate goal of being a Professor and a Research Advisor.

Abstract: Radiation recoil forces are caused by the anisotropic emission of thermal photons from the surface of a rotatingobject that is heated by sunlight. The Yarkovsky effect is a radiation recoil force that results in a semimajor axis drift in the orbit that can cause main belt asteroids to be delivered to powerful resonances from which they could be transported to Earth-crossing orbits. This force depends on the spin state of the object, which is modified by the YORP effect, a variationof the Yarkovsky effect that results in a change of the spin rate and obliquity (i.e. the angle between the orbital plane and the spin axis of the object). The YORP effect should leave a distinctive signature, driving the spin axis of most asteroids toobliquity values of 0, 90 and 180 degrees. But to obtain a direct measurement of their distribution of obliquities is not an easy task. To determine the rotation poles of asteroids will require radar observations or multiple lightcurves at different illumination and orbital phases for each NEA. So far, there are only about 20 NEAs for which a rotation pole has been determined. Instead of obtaining a direct measurement, the obliquity of an NEA can be inferred if the semimajor axis drift rate due to the Yarkovsky effect is known since from the linear heat diffusion theory for a spherical body, the semimajor axisdrift rate varies linearly with cosine obliquity.

Continued on the Next Page . . .

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Desireé Cotto-Figuera (Continued) Abstract: (Continued) I estimated the semimajor axis drift rates for a sample of 801 NEAs using the Jet Propulsion Laboratory Comet and Asteroid Precision Orbit Determination Package. Although there is a simple dependence between the semimajor axis drift rate and the obliquity, the true scenario is more complicated since for the great majority of NEAs, there is no information available about their physical characteristics. The goal of my dissertation is to develop a code that will explore a wide variety of models for the distribution of obliquities of the NEAs in order to identify the intrinsic obliquity distribution that is consistent with the semimajor axis drift rates obtained for the sample of 801 NEAs. If the distribution shows that the obliquities of the asteroids tend towards 0, 90 and 180 degrees, it would be supporting evidence for the significance of the YORP effect as the main physical process in the evolution of NEAs. This research will contribute to the understanding of radiation recoil forces, which are dominant physical processes in the evolution of NEAs. It will address the nature of the origin and evolution of NEAs and therefore to the origin and evolution of our Solar System since NEAs are the pieces left over from the formation of the inner planets. Publications: None yet.

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The Ohio State UniversityDaniel R. E. Foster


Steve StiversCongressional Representative(s):

Thermal and Mechanical Characterization of Ultrasonic Additive Manufactured Components

Research Topic:

Doctoral 3, Welding EngineeringStatus:

Dr. Suresh BabuAdvisor(s):

Biography: I have always enjoyed Welding Engineering because of its interdisciplinary nature, combining aspects of Material Science, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering and Industrial Engineering to solve materials joining problems. I earned my undergraduate degree in Welding Engineering at The Ohio State University in 2007. During that time, I participated in several undergraduate research activities as a research associate in the Welding Engineering Department as part of the NSF sponsored Nanoscale Science and Engineering Center (NSEC), Ohio Science and Engineering Alliance (OSEA), and Summer Research Opportunities Program (SROP), researching macro and micro laser welding of polymer nanocomposites. These experiences cemented my interest in graduate level research and encouragedme to earn a Master's Degree in Welding Engineering investigating dissimilar resistance spot welding between nickel and super austenitic stainless steel alloys. My long-range goal is to be a professor at a major university. I would love the opportunity to continue my education, research new ideas, and teach the next generation. Therefore, I chose to pursue myPh.D. in Welding Engineering under the leadership of Dr. Suresh Babu investigating “Thermal and Mechanical Characterization of Ultrasonic Additive Manufactured Components.”

Abstract: Ultrasonic Additive Manufacturing (UAM), also known as Ultrasonic Consolidation, is a new manufacturing process in which metallic parts are fabricated from metal foils. The process uses a rotating cylindrical sonotrode as an ultrasonic energy source to produce high frequency, low amplitude, mechanical vibrations in order to induce combined staticand shear forces between 150µm thick metal foils. The large shear and normal forces are highly localized, breaking up anyoxide films and surface contaminants on the material surface and allowing for intimate metal to metal contact. As the ultrasonic consolidation process progresses, the static and oscillating shear forces cause dynamic internal stresses at the faying surfaces, producing elastic-plastic deformation. The elastic-plastic deformation induces material flow and atomic diffusion across the interface, resulting in a completely solid state bond. This process is repeated, creating a layered manufacturing technique which continuously consolidates foil layers to previously deposited material. After every few foil layers, CNC contour milling is used to create the desired part profile with high dimensional accuracy and appropriate surface finishes. The intermitting CNC intervention permits complex internal channels, as well as embedding components such a microelectronics, optical fibers, reinforcement fibers and smart materials to construct a “Metal Matrix Composite” (MMC). This technology produces the world’s most accurate metal 3-D printer that allows for rapid prototyping, net shape parts production and MMC’s components many of which could not be created other than with this technology.


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Daniel R. E. Foster (Continued) Abstract: (Continued) It is important to understand the thermal and mechanical processes during UAM, because these processes have a large impact on the final mechanical, thermal and metallurgical properties of the constructed component. High shearing forces during the UAM process cause part vibration along with frictional and hysteresis heating, all of which can affect the bond quality of subsequent and previously deposited foil layers. Factors such as thermal cycle times and temperature profiles are also of immense importance because these factors can limit the type of components that can be embedded in the MMC as well as possibly induce metallurgical changes such as grain growth recrystallization and precipitation. Fundamental understanding of these thermal and mechanical processes will allow researchers to fundamentally understand ultrasonic consolidation and link process parameters to in-situ processes to final part properties, so that the UAM technology can be expanded to new and innovative applications. Publications: 1. D. E. Schick, S. S. Babu, D. R. Foster, M. J. Dapino, M. Short, J. C. Lippold, Transient Thermal Response in

Ultrasonic Additive Manufacturing of Aluminum 3003, Rapid Prototyping Journal, 17 (2011) 369 - 379. 2. M. R. Sriraman, M. Gonser, D. R. Foster, H. T. Fujii, S. S. Babu, Matt Bloss, Thermal Transients During Processing

of 3003 Al-H18 Multilayer Build by Very High Power Ultrasonic Additive Manufacturing, Metallurgical and Materials Transactions B (accepted, awaiting publication).

3. D. R. Foster, S. S. Babu, M. J. Dapino, Elastic Constants of Ultrasonic Additive Manufactured Al 3003-H18 (Submitted).

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The Ohio State UniversityNicole D. Guzman



Tumor BiomarkersResearch Topic:

Doctoral 2, Chemical and Biomolecular EngineeringStatus:

Dr. Michael PaulaitisAdvisor(s):

Biography: I am originally from Puebla, Mexico. I obtained a B.S. Degree in Chemical Engineering from the Institute of Superior Studies in Engineering (IESI) and a B.S. Degree in Biology at the University of the Americas-Puebla (UDLA-P). In2002, I obtained a scholarship to spend a year abroad at the University of Leicester in the UK and subsequently spent two summers (2003 and 2004) working there as an undergraduate researcher. My undergraduate honors thesis was a compilation of the results obtained during my stay in the UK. Upon graduating from my undergraduate studies in 2006, I began my graduate studies at The Ohio State University in the Fall of that same year. In 2010, I obtained the DistinguishedGraduate Student Award from the College of Engineering at OSU. Currently, I’m in my final year of the Ph.D. Program in theChemical and Biomolecular Engineering Department at The Ohio State University.

Abstract: The development of minimally invasive clinical biomarkers for the detection and monitoring of human cancers would greatly reduce the worldwide health burden of this disease. To date, none of the biomarkers recommended by the American Society of Clinical Oncology can accurately predict the risk of breast cancer metastasis development or a response to advanced treatment. Consequently, factors such as disease-free interval, previous therapy, site of disease andnumber of metastatic sites are used to monitor the impact of treatment on patients with metastatic breast disease. Therefore, the development of clinically validated metastatic detection and prediction markers remains an unmet challenge.

MicroRNAs (miRs) are a recently discovered class of small non-coding RNAs of approximately 22 nucleotides in length, which post-transcriptionally regulate gene expression and have been found to play a critical role in many homeostatic and pathological processes. Recent studies have systematically analyzed miR expression in cancer tumors and showed that these tumors exhibit distinct miR signatures compared to normal tissues. These discoveries have motivated efforts to devise miR expression profiling technologies for the early diagnosis, prognosis and response to treatment of many human cancers. Current technologies to isolate and analyze miRs are limited to tissue biopsies and include a myriad of assays which are time consuming, labor intensive, semi-quantitative and prohibitively expensive for routine clinical application. However, the breakthrough observations that miRs are found circulating within a multitude of physiological fluids, including serum, urine and saliva has bolstered studies which directly analyze miRs from these easily accessible biofluids.

Extracellular miRs travel the body protected from degradation within cell secreted microvesicles (MVs) that range in size between 40-1000 nanometers. It is known that both healthy and tumorigenic cells secrete microvesicles into their surroundings. Consequently, if MV miRs are to be proposed as a potential source of novel biomarkers for cancer, the accurate selection and characterization of tumor derived MVs from the rest of the biofluid’s MV background is required to achieve consistent and robust measurements. Our hypothesis is that a complementary analysis of the miR cargo derived from tumor-secreted MVs combined with biophysical/biochemical characterizations of the circulating MVs themselves will provide new insights for the development of such promising new diagnostic biomarkers which could not be achieved either from MV miR analysis or MV characterization alone.


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Nicole D. Guzman (Continued) Abstract: (Continued) My research centered on two cell lines, a breast epithelial cell line (MCF10A), and a proliferating breast tumor cell line (MCF7). Donor cells and microvesicles secreted by these cells were analyzed. Microvesicle sizes and concentrations were obtained from dynamic light scattering and nanoparticle tracking measurements. By number, 97% of vesicles were below 100 nm in size. While the larger particles which account for 3% by number, accounted for 55% of the volume of the system. Additionally, using cryo-TEM, the structural morphologies of the vesicles were analyzed. Vesicles were found to be full with electron dense material or, in the vast majority of cases, devoid of such material. Using antibody microarrays, vesicles were found to express surface markers that matched the cells from which they were secreted. Cell and secreted microvesicle miR profiles were obtained by Nanostring miR Expression Assays and validated using qRT-PCR. Our results show quantitatively distinct miR profiles for both the parental cells and their secreted microvesicles for both healthy and cancerous states. This suggests the existence of a cellular mechanism for selection, packaging, and export of miRs. Most importantly, our results indicate that certain miRs are selectively shuttled under cancerous states. Publications: None yet.

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University of CincinnatiRobert C. Charvat


Dennis J. KucinichCongressional Representative(s):

SIERRA (Surveillance for Intelligent Emergency Response RoboticAircraft) Project

Research Topic:


Dr. Kelly CohenAdvisor(s):

Biography: After graduating with a Bachelor’s Degree in Aerospace Engineering in 2010, Robert Charvat is continuing hiseducation with a Master’s in Aerospace Engineering: Dynamics and Controls, Systems Engineering. His projected graduation date is March, 2012. Robert Charvat is from the Cleveland area; graduating from North Olmsted High School.During his time at the University of Cincinnati he has worked for GE Aviation, Sierra Lobo, and has participated in several undergraduate and graduate research projects in the areas of aerospace combustion, autonomous system development and design. This is his 4th year working with Dr. Kelly Cohen.

Abstract: The 2007 California Wild Fires and more recent disasters created a clear need for continued development for wild fire prevention, and for wild fire fighting technology. Stemming from research conducted during the 2008-2010 period, the University of Cincinnati has been able to demonstrate that UAV (Unmanned Aerial Vehicle) systems have a great potential to assist in providing benefits in both ISR (Intelligence Surveillance Reconnaissance) roles, as well as capabilitieswhich increase the safety and response time of current operational units. In an effort to promote UAV system technology transformation into the Emergency Response Community and to prevent disasters, the University of Cincinnati, Departmentof Aerospace Engineering has created the SIERRA Program (Surveillance for Intelligent Emergency Response Robotic Aircraft).

The SIERRA program is focused on actively deploying currently available UAV systems with operational emergency response personnel to develop next generational techniques and technologies for their use in the emergency response. The team has currently developed a relationship with the West Virginia Department of Forestry in which during Fall, 2011, the team flew their Zephyr Surveillance UAS at two separate wild land fire research events including a prescribed fire burning an area of approximately 40 acres. The team used the UAS video feed to provide additional information to the Incident commander to improve on the situational awareness. This added capability not only provided a better understanding of the situation, it will also allow for more quicker operational pace due to information analysis in which can be conducted from the data received from the UAS.

Additionally during the test, the University of Cincinnati gathered data for developing the next generation UAS test standardfor ISR missions in this area by focusing. Furthermore, the team is developing software packages for improved ISR capabilities. By studying the performance of the UAS in these missions a clear picture can be provided of the benefit of implementing this type of program from both a safety, operational, and a financial perspective. It is expected that this program will lead the way for the future of tactical hand launched wild fire UAVs in the years to come, and will be able to deliver results in which both save money, time, and lives. This program is financially supported by the Ohio Space Grant Consortium and the University of Cincinnati.

Publications: Available upon request - Over 10 - including AIAA Infotech, DCASS, DESS, and NSC.

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University of CincinnatiAdam R. Gerlach

2ndCongressional District(s):

Jean SchmidtCongressional Representative(s):

Dynamically Constrained Path-Planning Using Radial Basis Functions

Research Topic:

Doctoral 2, Aerospace EngineeringStatus:

Dr. Bruce K. WalkerAdvisor(s):

Biography: My interests in engineering were developed at a very young age. My father owned a machine shop that did high production machining for the automotive industry along with custom tool and die development. I spent countless hourswatching him solve real-world engineering problems. When it came time for me to make decisions on pursuing a college education, I decided that I wanted to work at the cutting edge of technology and thought a degree in Aerospace Engineeringat the University of Cincinnati was the best avenue to reach that goal.

While an undergraduate student at the University of Cincinnati, I completed the cooperative education program by working as a spacecraft propulsion engineer at the Naval Research Laboratory (NRL) in Washington, D. C. At the NRL, I had the unique opportunity to contribute to the design, development, analysis, build, test, and flight operations of the propulsion system of a new experimental upper stage for the MiTEx program. As a senior, three fellow classmates and I were selectedby NASA to perform an autonomous rendezvous and capture robotics experiment on NASA’s ‘Weightless Wonder’ as part of the NASA Microgravity University Program. The work performed on that experiment has fueled my interests in my currentgraduate research at the University of Cincinnati.

Abstract: The Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) is currently developing a new class of servicer spacecraft to perform autonomous rendezvous and docking of target spacecraft. These spacecraft are characterized by heightened levels of autonomy in both orbital and close proximity maneuvering, and by unparalleled situational awareness through the use of 3D vision and real-time pose estimation. To be successful, these spacecraft require technical advances in compliance control, machine vision, real-time pose estimation, and path planning.

Even though path planning algorithms have been studied extensively in the fields of robotics, artificial intelligence, and control theory, the maturity of planning algorithms that consider the dynamic constraints or a system is relatively low. The proposed research is to develop a new dynamically constrained path planning algorithm based on radial basis functions. The use of radial basis functions may lead to a general path planning algorithm that is system- and dimension-independent.Although the development of this algorithm is fueled by autonomous rendezvous and docking applications of spacecraft, itsuse can be extended to any autonomous system.

Publications:1. Gerlach A., Walker, B. Accelerating Robust 3D Pose Estimation Using C*-Images, 50th AIAA ASM, January, 2011,

Nashville, Tennessee.2. Gerlach A., Walker, B. Accelerating Robust 3D Pose Estimation Utilizing a Graphics Processing Unit, Intelligent Robots

and Computer Vision XXVII: Algorithms and Techniques, January, 2011, San Francisco, California.3. Gerlach A., Performance Enhancements of the Spin-Image Pose Estimation Algorithm. University of Cincinnati, Master’s

Thesis, March, 2010.4. Netwall, C., Osborn, M., Clauss, C., Gerlach, A. Transient Pressure Analysis and Verification Testing for the Micro-

Satellite Technology Experiment Upper Stage Propulsion System. AIAA-2007-5523, 43rd Joint Propulsion Conference,July, 2007.

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University of CincinnatiRobert D. Knapke



Harmonic Balance and Conjugate Heat Transfer Methods for Turbomachinery Simulations

Research Topic:

Doctoral 1, Fluids, Propulsion and Heat TransferStatus:

Mark G. Turner, Ph.D.Advisor(s):

Biography: I am currently a Doctoral student at the University of Cincinnati. Ever since grade school I have had an interest in math and science. During high school, I realized that I enjoyed Physics most of all and found Aerospace Engineering to be a good combination of interesting Physics and difficult math problems. Due to the co-op program offeredand the excellent Aerospace program, I decided to attend the University of Cincinnati.

Throughout my first few co-op quarters, I found the research aspect of engineering to be the most interesting. More specifically, I began to work at the University of Cincinnati Gas Turbine Simulation Laboratory (GTSL) and found that I enjoyed Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD). I had already had an interest in the fluids aspect of the aerospace field and to my surprise; I discovered that I enjoyed programming as well. The CFD research I took part in at GTSL was a good fit formy interests. Throughout my remaining co-op experiences and my Master’s research, I have worked on a variety of projects related to CFD and applications to turbomachinery simulations. These projects include experiments of a Micro Machine Gas Turbine, simulations of a Counter-Rotating Aspirated Compressor and simulations of a cooled high pressure turbine.

Abstract: During the design process of turbomachinery parts, several levels of fidelity are used. The most detailed step is the use of 3D, viscous, turbulent CFD of the design. Currently, the common practice in industry involves the use of steady simulations, rather than capturing the unsteady nature of the problem. The reason for this simplification is the high computational cost of time accurate simulations. Another common simplification is the use of adiabatic thermal wall boundary conditions, which neglects the complex heat transfer. The use of iso-thermal walls allows for some improvement,but still involves the simplification of the walls to a single temperature.

The goal of this research is to implement both the time-dependent and heat transfer physics into a University of Cincinnati in-house CFD solver. The unsteady flow physics will be captured using the Harmonic Balance method. This method takesadvantage of the periodic nature of turbomachinery to reduce the computational cost while capturing the majority of the unsteadiness. In addition, the conjugate heat transfer model will be added to the solver. This model involves solving the energy equation through the solid material and connecting the solid and fluid domains as one calculation. Capturing the unsteady and heat transfer physics of turbomachinery in a cost efficient manner would improve the design process.

Publications:1. Robert D. Knapke, Mark G. Turner, Michael G. List, Daniel S. Galbraith, “Time Accurate Simulations of a Counter-

Rotating Aspirated Compressor.” ASME GT2008-50877, June, 2008.2. Robert D. Knapke, “Unsteady Analysis of a Counter-Rotating Aspirated Compressor Using Phase-Lag and Non-Linear

Harmonic Methods”. Master’s thesis, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio, November, 2011.

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University of CincinnatiCharles P. Williams

1stCongressional District(s):

Steve ChabotCongressional Representative(s):

Development of High-Work, High-Efficiency, Low-Pressure-TurbineTechnologies

Research Topic:


Dr. K. GhiaAdvisor(s):

Biography: I have always enjoyed understanding how things work which fueled my interest in engineering related disciplines during high school. I grew up in Alexandria, Kentucky, and attended Campbell County High School. After high school I decided to attend the University of Cincinnati (UC) in the Fall of 2005 pursuing a degree in Aerospace Engineering.During my undergraduate education at UC I participated in multiple undergraduate research projects. I worked in the area of Flameless Combustion analyzing experimental fuel-injector techniques using Particle Image Velocimetry. I also worked in Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) research on Massively Separated Supersonic flows which was funded through theNational Science Foundation. During this time I also participated in UC's mandatory co-op program and worked at ModernTechnology Solutions, Inc. (MTSI) in Beavercreek, OH. Here I did extensive work on Ballistic Missile Modeling and Simulation, and worked with Missile Navigation and Guidance used in conjunction with Global Navigation Satellite Systems.I graduated Summa Cum Laude and first in my class in June, 2010, with a Bachelor's of Science.

Currently, I am in my second year of graduate school pursuing a Master's Degree. I have been working with CFD researchfor Low-Pressure Turbine Blades. This research is in conjunction with the Air Force Research Laboratories, Dayton Area Graduate Studies Institute, and the Ohio Space Grant Consortium. Upon graduation I expect to be working at MTSI in efforts to aid National Defense.

Abstract: In today’s world there is a push in both the military and the civilian aviation industry to develop compact and efficient turbine engines. In a modern gas turbine engine, the fan generates about 80% of the total engine thrust, and requires approximately 6 low-pressure turbine (LPT) stages to drive it. Hence, the efficiency of the LPT has a large effect onthe overall engine efficiency. The development of the gas turbine engine as a whole, and LPT in particular, has reached a stage where a further rise in efficiency is increasingly hard to obtain. Research by [1] showed that the efficiency of gas turbine engines in commercial and military aircraft is observed to drop severely at high-altitude flight operations because ofLow-Reynolds number flows which lead to separation losses on a LPT blade. Hence, there is a scope for further increase inLPT efficiency if these separation losses are eliminated or at least reduced. Also, a reduction in engine weight has a bearingon both manufacturing costs and fuel consumption. Since the LPT accounts for one-third of the total engine weight in a modern gas turbine engine, the LPT is a prime component for reducing total engine weight. This weight reduction could beachieved through a reduction in the number of turbine stages and the number of blades per stage. For a turbine to develop the required power with as few stages as possible, each stage must be highly loaded. Increased blade loading, however, increases the susceptibility of the flow to separate, resulting in larger separation losses on the LPT blade.


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Charles P. Williams (Continued) Abstract: (Continued) For the current research project I am conducting numerical investigations of Low-Reynolds number transitional flow through LPT cascades using higher-order compact schemes with ILES, and using active flow control techniques incorporating vortex generator jets to mitigate and eliminate separation losses on the suction surface of a LPT. The turbine blades that are currently under investigation are a set of turbine blades that were developed at AFRL for the purpose of creating a higher-loaded blade that is less susceptible to separation losses induced by Low-Reynolds number flow.

Many unmanned air vehicles (UAVs) are used for purposes of reconnaissance and combat missions and utilize low-pressure turbines in their propulsion systems. The analysis developed through this research will be of great benefit to these UAV systems. In addition, it will help the civil aviation industry to develop smaller, more efficient turbine engines. References: 1. Murawski, C. G., Simon, T. W., Volino, R. J., and Vafai, K., (1997), "Experimental Study of the Unsteady

Aerodynamics in a Linear Cascade with Low Reynolds Number Low Pressure Turbine Blades," International Gas Turbine and Aero-engine Congress and Exhibition, ASME Paper No. 97-GT-95, Orlando, Florida.


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University of DaytonRobyn L. Bradford


Steve AustriaCongressional Representative(s):

Fabrication of Synthetic Tissue Using Nanostructured Materials andElectrospinning

Research Topic:

Master’s 1, Materials EngineeringStatus:

Khalid Lafdi, Ph.D.Advisor(s):

Biography: I am currently a first year graduate student at the University of Dayton in the combined Master’s/Doctoral Program in Materials Engineering. I attended Central State University for my undergraduate coursework; and graduated Summa Cum Laude in May of 2011 with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Manufacturing Engineering. While at Central State, I held several leadership positions with the National Society of Black Engineers (NSBE) and the Society of Manufacturing Engineers (SME). I also had the opportunity to explore four exciting and diverse internships at the Air ForceResearch Lab (AFRL) at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base (WPAFB); The Boeing Company in Seattle, Washington; NASAGlenn Research Center in Cleveland, Ohio; and the Air Force Institute of Technology (AFIT) at WPAFB.

Throughout my undergraduate sophomore through senior years, I was blessed to have been selected as an Ohio Space Grant Consortium Scholar; and I am now honored to have received a Master’s Fellowship for graduate study. During my first semester as a graduate student at the University of Dayton,

I began working on a research project entitled “SMART Data: A secure, wearable, wireless data storage solution.” The concept design is a USB flash drive alternative that drastically reduces the probability of data loss. I entered my idea and business plan in the University of Dayton Business Plan Competition and won $1,000. Fueled by the challenges and atmosphere of the competition, I joined Flyer Innovations, a campus enterprise aimed at promoting innovation and entrepreneurship through participation in engineering design competitions. I then applied for and was appointed the position of President of Ideation for the club and will start my new position in the Spring of 2012.

I am also involved with campus ministries and serve on the University of Dayton Hearing Board. My other activities includemy work as a NASA Student Ambassador and participating with the NASA Academy Alumni Association and the National Society of Black Engineers – Dayton Alumni Extension (NSBE-DAE).

Abstract: Tissue engineering or regenerative medicine is a field of research concerned with discovering innovative ways torepair or replace damaged tissue. One method of tissue engineering involves culturing cells on synthetic, biodegradable support structures called scaffolds. Scaffolds are designed to mimic the extracellular matrix (ECM) of the in vivo environment; and can be made of any of a number of materials such as synthetic polymers and carbon. Fiber and cell orientation are crucial with engineering tissues because they control three-dimensional cell attachment, propagation, and ultimately functionality. My research will involve culturing osteoblasts (cells involved with the formation of bone tissue) in vitro on various electrospun scaffolds. Nanofiber orientation within the support along with cell attachment and alignment willthen be studied.

References:1. Bognitzki, M., Czado, W., Frese, T., Schaper, A., Hellwig, M., Steinhart, M., Greiner, A., and Wendorff, J. H.,

“Nanostructured Fibers via Electrospinning,” Advanced Materials [online journal], URL: http://msewww.engin.umich.edu:81/people/milty/research/electrospinning/literature/2001_Wendorff_Nanostructured%20Fibers%20via%20Electrospinning.pdf

2. Matthews, J. A., Wnek, G. E., Simpson, D. G, and Bowlin, G. L., “Electrospinning of Collagen Nanofibers,” Biomacromolecules, 3 (2), pp. 232-238.


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University of DaytonAlan L. Jennings



Developmental Learning Applied to Autonomous RoboticsResearch Topic:

Doctoral 3, Electrical EngineeringStatus:

Dr. Raúl OrdóñezAdvisor(s):

Biography: Originally from the East suburbs of Cleveland, I attended The University of Akron and captained a winning SAE aero design team; co-op’ed at ERICO in Solon, Ohio; and researched at Western Michigan University. In Akron I met and married my sweetheart, Karen, and now we have two wonderful daughters. For graduate studies, I attended the University of Dayton. I now hold both mechanical and electrical engineering degrees. I also assist the Air Force Institute of Technology (AFIT) setting up and analyzing sensor controllers, satellite deployment, flapping wing and space telescope vibrations. For recreation I play soccer and rough-house with my adorable daughters

Abstract: Computers have amazing power to execute well defined tasks, but lack “common sense” so operators need to micro-manage the machines. A first method reduces a high dimension task (many dials to tune) to a single dimension (onedial) while the computer manages optimality. A population of agents is used to efficiently search for optimal inverse functions. A second method allows for unbounded resolution of function optimization. Typically, resolution is low to quickly find a solution but results in clunky motion. This method incrementally increases the resolution as experience is gathered balancing proficiency with practice. These methods allow for autonomous learning.

Supported Publications:1. Jennings, R. Ordóñez, “Memory-Based Motion Optimization for Unbounded Resolution,” Computational Intelligence and

Bioinformatics, IASTED, 753-31, November, 2011.2. Jennings, R. Ordóñez, “Population based optimization for variable operating points,” Congress on Evolutionary

Computation, IEEE, June, 2011.3. Jennings, R. Ordóñez, F. Harmon, “Constrained Near-Optimal Control Using a Numerical Kinetic Solver,” Robotics and

Applications, IASTED, ACTA Press, 706-21, November, 2010.4. Jennings, R. Ordóñez, N. Ceccarelli, “Waypoint Navigation Heuristic for a Small UAV with Non-uniform Settling Lengths,”

AIAA Guidance, Navigation, and Control Conference, AIAA-2010-8331, August, 2010.5. Jennings, R. Ordóñez, “Biomimetic Learning, Not Learning Biomimetics: A survey of developmental learning,” National

Aerospace and Electronics Conference (NAECON), IEEE, July, 2010.

Other Selected Publications:1. Jennings, J. Black, “Texture-Based Photogrammetry Accuracy on Curved Surfaces,” AIAA Journal, Accepted.2. D. Magree, J. Black, A. Jennings, G. Briggs, C. Allen, “Pan-Tilt-Zoom Hybrid Camera System for Dynamic Tracking and

Measurement,” AIAA Journal, September, 2011.3. Jennings, J. Black, C. Allen, J. Simpkins, R. Sollars, “Vibrometer Steering System for Dynamic In-flight Tracking and

Measurement,” Experimental Mechanics, Springer, 2011.4. Jennings, C. Allen, D. Magree, G. Briggs, J. Black, A. Trinh, T. Pace, “Texture Photogrammetry Surface Reconstruction

of Membrane Wings Using Tracking Cameras,” Aerodynamic Measurement & Ground Testing, AIAA-2010-4358.5. Jennings, R. Ordóñez, N. Ceccarelli, “An Ant Colony Optimization Using Training Data Applied to UAV Way Point Path

Planning in Wind,” Swarm Intelligence Symposium, IEEE, 2008.

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SCHOLARS

Case Western ReserveMeike H. Ernst



Particle Image Velocimetry for Micro Air-Cooling DevicesResearch Topic:

Senior, Aerospace/Mechanical EngineeringStatus:

Jaikrishnan R. Kadambi, Ph.D.Advisor(s):

Biography: I am an Aerospace and Mechanical Engineering major at Case Western Reserve University. I spent the last two summers doing some very exciting work for the Case Biorobotics Lab. Last summer, I created models in the student version of SolidWorks for the improved version of the chassis of a small robot. I enjoyed the challenge of trying to make thechasses lightweight while still being able to hold all of the major components: motor, servo, etc. I also worked on SolidWorks models for the improved version of the transmission casing of an urban search and rescue robot. In summer 2010, I helped build carbon fiber wings and fuselages for small robots that are supposed to be able to fly, land, and walk. I also made a SolidWorks model of a tail sting, and tested out various motor-propeller combinations (small propellers and motors- the kind usually found in model airplanes) in a wind tunnel.

I am also involved in a number of extracurricular activities. One extracurricular activity I especially enjoy is Baja, which is anSAE design competition to build an off-road car. Baja is very important to me because it gives me a chance to get some hands-on experience in Case’s machine shop. I became a member of the engineering honor society Tau Beta Pi last semester, and I am a member of the Case chapter of ASME (American Society of Mechanical Engineers), which gives me the opportunity to take part in a variety of events, such visiting the Cleveland Auto Show or talking to other students about internships and co-op experiences they’ve had. I look forward to all the great opportunities provided by these extracurricularactivities, and I especially look forward to the research I will be doing with Professor Kadambi and his research team.

Abstract: The modern world makes use of a variety of electronic devices with increasingly complex functions- but no matter how sophisticated the device, it suffers from one major constraint: it must be cooled properly in order to function. Allof these devices generate heat, and if they are not sufficiently cooled, they will become damaged or even break completely.In order to avoid these problems, electronics can be cooled using micro air-cooling devices. These micro air-cooling deviceswork using an ionic wind pump that moves air over the electronics, and carries away heat. The voltage difference between the emitter and collector electrodes drives the air forward over the electronics it is intended to cool.

In order to improve this process, I will investigate the airflow generated by these cooling devices with Professor Kadambi and his research group. Specifically, Particle Image Velocimetry (PIV) can reveal the flow field of the air over the electronics. This is vital to knowing how effective the cooling is since the cooling process depends entirely on moving the air, which has collected heat from the electronics product, away from that electronics product. I therefore plan to use PIV tostudy the air’s flow field and figure out how to improve it so that the best possible rate of cooling can be achieved.


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Case Western ReserveEric K. Mayhew



Experimental Determination of Thermal Conductivities of Carbon Nanofibers and Boron-Carbon-Nitride Nanotubes

Research Topic:

Senior, Mechanical and Aerospace EngineeringStatus:

Dr. Vikas PrakashAdvisor(s):

Biography: Eric, of Beavercreek, Ohio, is currently a Senior majoring in Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering at CaseWestern Reserve University. He is currently in the BS/MS program and plans to graduate with his Bachelor’s Degree in May, 2012. He plans to graduate in May, 2013, with his Master’s Degree in Mechanical Engineering. Eric has spent his lasttwo summers working as an intern in the Propulsion Directorate (AFRL) at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base. After completion of his Master’s, he plans to continue on to a Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering.

Abstract: Carbon nanotubes (CNTs), carbon nanofibers, and their building blocks, single atomic plane graphene sheets, have amazing mechanical, thermal, and electrical transport properties. Until now, the use of carbon nanostructures in practical applications has been limited due to their small size and extent. This has resulted in an undeveloped ability to extend their properties to the third dimension. One solution to his problem is to develop carbon nanostructure composites that can utilize the advantages of the individual components. The first step in successfully modeling these composites is to characterize the individual elements.

The purpose of this project is to experimentally determine the thermal conductivities of two potential components of these composites. The scope of the project covers experiments on the carbon nanofibers and boron-carbon-nitride (BCN) nanotubes. The manufacture of these carbon nanostructures is improving but remains somewhat imprecise, so large samples of the carbon nanofibers and BCN nanotubes must be tested to develop a better picture of their representative thermal conductivities.

These experiments use a three-omega-based Wollaston T-Type hot wire probe inside of a scanning electron microscope (SEM) to find the thermal conductivities of the carbon nanofibers and the BCN nanowires. This three-omega-based methoduses a 1-D heat transfer model with constant temperature boundary conditions. All of these experiments are conducted in ahigh vacuum (set by the SEM) and are driven with small temperature differences (<10 K). As such, the heat transfer due toconvection and radiation is negligible; all heat transfer can be attributed to conduction. The data collected from these experiments contributes towards successfully being able to model the more complicated nanocomposites.


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Case Western ReserveNicholas S. Szczecinski



Neural-style Controller for Low- and Intermediate-level LocomotionCoordination in Legged Robots

Research Topic:

Senior, Mechanical EngineeringStatus:

Dr. Roger D. QuinnAdvisor(s):

Biography: I am a Senior Mechanical engineering student from Rocky River, Ohio. I attended St. Edward High School, where I became very involved in FIRST Robotics. This work encouraged me to prepare for a career in mechanics and controls. I am currently pursuing both a B.S. and M.S. from Case Western Reserve University. My interest in robotics, particularly in legged locomotion, led me to pursue a research position in the Biologically Inspired Robotics Laboratory (BIRL). I currently research neural systems and mechanical dynamics in CWRU’s BIRL under the guidance of Dr. Roger Quinn.

Abstract: The presented research aims to develop an intermediate-level control system in order to produce dynamic stepping and gait adaptation in legged robots. In order for a robot’s motion to be similar to real animals in real environments,it must have a control system that approaches the behavior of a biological system in completeness, feedback and interference. While such a goal is certainly ambitious, other control systems have incorporated biological data into joint coordination to produce very robust stepping. One can then reason that mechanical systems could benefit from incorporating these characteristics on a larger scale. Such a task involves developing control software that manages inputs to and outputs from the legs and coordinates them among all the appendages. Current biologically inspired control systemshave the ability to change the sensitivity of inputs and amplitude of outputs in only one leg, effectively generating different gaits. However, having one piece of software that manipulates all of these values to create one, coordinated movement withmultiple legs would be the first step towards making this style of control practical for usage outside of academia.

In order to achieve this goal of creating a neural-based controller, circuits of neurons were assembled in software to control individual legs based on existing literature. Much research has described neural pathways responsible for controlling locomotion in stick insects and cockroaches. The structures suggested by literature were mimicked by networks of integrateand fire neurons. The specific properties of each neuron were calculated to produce a circuit that exhibits the desired stepping behavior. Interleg circuits were developed in a similar fashion, relying on literature and hypotheses to coordinate the intraleg controllers into coherent gaits. Different gaits are produced by linking intraleg controllers through networks that function as band pass filters. As the legs step at higher or lower frequencies, certain interleg networks resonate, coordinating the legs into the desired pattern. Other coordinating circuits are largely inactive when not stimulated at their natural frequencies, allowing all circuits to remain intact at all times. Despite this continuous connection, most of the interlegcommunication is facilitated through one dominant circuit at a particular stepping frequency, theoretically producing uniquegaits at different locomotion speeds.

Publications:1. Daltorio, K. A., Tietz, B. R., Bender, J. A., Webster, V. A., Szczecinski, N. S., et al. A Stochastic Algorithm for

Explorative Goal Seeking Extracted from Cockroach Walking Data. Submitted to IEEE ICRA 2012.2. Daltorio, K. A., Tietz, B. R., Szczecinski, N. S., Webster, V. A. RAMBLER, A Randomized Algorithm Mimicking

Biased Lone Exploration in Roaches. Submitted to IEEE/ASME Transactions on Mechatronics 2012.3. Szczecinski, N. S., Webster, V. A., et al. Deterministic Barrier Navigating and Shelter Seeking Robotic Controller

Inspired by Cockroach Behavior. Submitted to IEEE ICRA 2012.4. Tietz, B. R., Szczecinski, N. S., Webster, V. A. (2011, Nov). Robotic Modeling of Goal Directed Behavior in the

Cockroach Blaberus discoidalis. Presented at the Society for Neurosciences Conference 2011.

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Case Western ReserveVictoria A. Webster



An Analog Robotic Controller Using Biologically Inspired Neuron and Motor Voxels

Research Topic:


Dr. Roger QuinnAdvisor(s):

Biography: Victoria Webster is a Senior Mechanical Engineering student from Los Alamos, New Mexico, and is currently in the BS/MS Program at Case Western Reserve University (CWRU). As an undergraduate, she has research experience inMaterial Science and Robotics. During the summers after her freshman and sophomore years she studied the dynamic ductility of Zirconium in the Material Science and Technology Division at Los Alamos National Laboratory. However, her research interests lie primarily in biomimetic robotics, specifically in the areas of controller design and dynamic stability. Sheis currently performing research in the Center for Biologically Inspired Robotics Research, directed by Dr. Roger Quinn, at CWRU.

Abstract: Biological systems often provide useful sample systems for robotics. By mimicking systems seen in the animal world, engineers can design robots that are potentially more versatile and robust than traditional wheeled or tracked robots.Additionally, an area of interest in robotics which is gaining momentum is the development of voxels, or repeat units. It is hoped that in the future, rather than building a robot out of raw materials, they could be built out of preassembled cell-like units. This idea can be extended to controllers by developing neuron voxels which can be connected in the same manner seen in biological organisms. Thus rather than programming a robot, one could design a neural circuit via various simulationtools, then simply build and implement it with an assortment of neuron voxels.

The Biologically Inspired Robotics Laboratory (BIRL) at Case Western Reserve University is currently working on a project to develop controllers in simulation based on the neural systems of cockroaches and rats. These simulations often utilize either simplistic models of neurons which are computationally inexpensive but are less accurate, or complex mathematicalmodels of neurons which make simulations of entire neural systems difficult to run in real time. Therefore, a controller that truly captures the functionality of a neuron is useless for a robot, since it will not be able to perform the necessary calculations quickly enough to solve problems in real time. However, an analog system with the same properties as a neuron may be able to process information without the delay of a digital simulation, allowing the robot to make real-time locomotion decisions with a network of neural-style circuits.

Additionally, in order to build robots which move like their biological inspirations, actuators with properties similar to musclesare needed. There are a variety of relationships which dictate muscle dynamics. While each of these relationships could bedirectly translated to an analog circuit, the final circuit would be bulky and therefore less useful as an interchangeable unit. Instead, mechanical and optical measures have been developed to implement the necessary muscle dynamic relationships.These motor and neuron voxels can be assembled into a variety of controller schemes based on the neuro-mechanical systems of biological organisms, in order to build locomotion controllers for stable, legged robotic systems.


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Victoria A. Webster (Continued) Publications: 1. Tietz, B. R., K. A. Daltorio, J. A. Bender, D. A. Porr, J. T. Richards, N. S. Szczecinski, V. A. Webster, R. D. Quinn,

R. E. Ritzmann; (2011) Robotic modeling of goal directed behavior in the cockroach Blaberus discoidalis. Soc. Neurosci. Abstr. 37: in press.

2. Kathryn A Daltorio, Brian R. Tietz , John A. Bender, Victoria A. Webster, Nicholas S. Szczecinski, Michael Branicky, Roy Earl Ritzmann, Roger, D. Quinn. A Stochastic Algorithm for Explorative Goal Seeking Extracted from Cockroach Walking Data. Accepted ICRA 2012

3. J. P. Escobedo, E. K. Cerreta, C.P. Trujillo, D. T. Martinez, V. A. Webster, R. A. Lebensohn, and G. T. Gray, III, “Influence of Texture and Test Velocity on the Dynamic, High Strain, Tensile Behavior of Zirconium”(2011) Manuscript in preparation.

4. Douglas Porr, John Richards, Nicholas Szczecinski, Victoria Webster, Robotic Modeling of Barrier Navigation and Shelter location in Blaberus Discoidalis. SOURCES Poster Symposium: Case Western Reserve University. 2011.

5. Webster, V. A., Martinez, D., Cerreta, E. K., Trujillo, C. P., Gray, III, G. T. Dynamic Ductility of Zirconium. Poster Session Presented at: Championing Scientific Careers. 2009 Annual Student Symposium at Los Alamos National Lab; 2009 Aug 4-5: Los Alamos, NM.

6. E. K. Cerreta, V. A. Webster, C. P. Trujillo, D. T. Martinez and G. T. Gray III, “Dynamic Extrusion Response of Zr”, TCG-IV Annual Meeting, Sandia National Laboratory, Albuquerque NM, November 2010

7. D. T. Martinez, C. P. Trujillo, J. D. Montalvo, V. A. Webster, and G. T. Gray III, “Influence of Shock Pre-straining and Texture on the Dynamic Extrusion Response of High Purity Zirconium”, LA-UR #:10-00518, 2010 TMS Annual Meeting, San Diego, CA, February 2010.

8. E. K. Cerreta, C. P. Trujillo, D. T. Martinez, V. A. Webster, and G. T. Gray III, “In-Situ Diagnostic for the Dynamic Extrusion Response of Zr”, TCG-IV Spring Meeting, Naval Air Weapons Station, China Lake, CA, April 2011.

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Case Western ReserveChung Y. Wo



Wind Measurement Applied to Urban Wind FarmingResearch Topic:


Dr. J. Iwan AlexanderAdvisor(s):

Biography: CY is from Cherry Hill, New Jersey. He has been attending Case Western Reserve University in Cleveland, Ohio, since August, 2006, and will graduate with a BS in Mechanical Engineering in May, 2011. He is currently in the BS/MS Program and is expected to receive a Master’s Degree in Mechanical Engineering in May, 2012. His work experience include two co-op tours with General Electric Aviation in the Manufacturing Processes and the Military HPT Stress Analysis/Life Management group. Other on campus activities and hobbies include powerlifting and kung fu.

Abstract: The goal of this project is to determine the reliability of wind data collected over a period of time, and the implications of the data with regard to placing Wind Turbines near or in an urban setting. Typically Wind Turbines are placedin open fields or off shore locations, with minimal wind disturbances due to the presence of buildings or, consequently, the published performance data (such as the power curve) is based entirely on "optimal" results of Wind Turbines found in openfields or off shore locations. By gathering wind data using anemometers and a LiDAR system, as well as collecting power production data from an on-campus Wind Turbine, the Wind Turbine Power Curve can be measured and compared to the Standard power curve for that type of turbine and the effects of wind modification due to buildings (for example, turbulence intensity etc.,) can be determined. Of particular interest is to investigate the degree to which the non-Gaussian nature of wind distributions may affect turbine behaviors and performance.


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Case Western ReserveCarmen Z. Kakish


Betty SuttonCongressional Representative(s):

Oncology Therapeutics: Hyperthermia Using Self-Heating Nanoparticles in Conjunction with Pluronic Nanobubbles

Research Topic:

Junior, Biomedical EngineeringStatus:

Dr. Alexis AbramsonAdvisor(s):

Biography: I was born in the small country of Jordan in 1991. I lived there for five years until my family immigrated to the United States, specifically Akron, Ohio. Growing up, I attended the Revere School District in Richfield. My interest in Science and Mathematics based courses emerged from the exceptional way in which the teachers at Revere introduced thematerial to their students. This along with my passion for medicine fueled my decision to study biomedical engineering.

I am currently a Junior at Case Western Reserve University. I am majoring in Biomedical Engineering, specifically in the bioelectric sequence. The connection between engineering and the human body that this major offers greatly interests me.Outside of the classroom, I have become involved in four different organizations on campus: Women in Science and Engineering Roundtable (WISER), Phi Delta Epsilon Medical Fraternity, the Tau Beta Pi Engineering Honor Society, and the Alpha Eta Mu Beta Biomedical Engineering Honor Society. I have been an active participant in each of the organizations, but I dedicate more time to WISER. I used to co-head an after-school science club for fourth and fifth grade girls but now, I am the secretary of WISER. In my free time, I enjoy volunteering at the Cleveland Clinic Children's Hospital to help cheer up children.

In the future, I hope to enter a medical school, with the hopes of one day becoming a Pediatric Surgeon.

Abstract: Micro-particles composed of Poly-Lactic-Co-Glycolic Acid (PLGA) coated calcium chloride salt are being createdfor the development of an innovative form of cancer treatment. The proposed treatment involves the in situ delivery of the micro-particles into the intracellular space of a cancerous cell. After extended exposure to the intracellular space of the cancerous cell, the PLGA coating of the micro-particles will dissolve allowing for the exothermic reaction of calcium chloridewith water. The release of heat from the reaction will raise the temperature of the cell beyond viable means; thus, causing death of the cancerous cell. Baseline tests measuring heat release and temperature change of the dissolution of calcium chloride with water were conducted using the method of calorimetry in order to understand the thermal behavior of particles.Further analysis of these results should give insight into the amount of calcium chloride embedded in the particle. The nextstep in the research is to test the thermal behavior of various formulas of particles in order to determine the ideal concentration and type of particle for the project to proceed. The addition of Pluronic nanobubbles to the particles is set fora future date. Ideally, Pluronic will suppress the development of the heat-shock proteins of a cell; thus, reducing the cancercell’s ability to respond to the temperature rise caused by the dissolution of calcium chloride. This will result in more efficientcancer cell death.


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Cedarville UniversityMichelle M. Mitchener



Chromatin Modifications for Ets2-Responsive GenesResearch Topic:

Senior, Molecular and Cellular Biology, ChemistryStatus:

Dr. Alicia E. SchaffnerAdvisor(s):

Biography: I grew up in Troy, Michigan, a northern suburb of Detroit. While in high school, I developed an interest in the sciences, particularly chemistry. Encouraged by my teachers there and my family at home, I began attending Cedarville University double majoring in chemistry and molecular and cellular biology. After my first research experience in a bioinorganic chemistry lab during the Summer of 2009, I developed a passion for the discovery process at the core of scientific research. I spent subsequent summers in Princeton, NJ, and St. Louis, MO, interning in molecular biology labs. Ireceived funds from the OSGC program in the Fall of 2010 to begin transcription factor research with Dr. Schaffner which Ihave continued to this date. Upon graduation from Cedarville in May, I plan to pursue a doctoral degree in a biological chemistry-related field and ultimately either to teach at the post-secondary level or perform medical research.

Abstract: A cell’s potential to proliferate, differentiate, and respond to its environment is based on its ability to alter its geneexpression. Transcription can be regulated by DNA-binding proteins called transcription factors. These factors bind variouspromoter/enhancer elements leading to the activation or repression of specific target genes. The ETS family of transcriptionfactors has been linked to tumor progression in several types of cancers, as they control genes regulating the cell cycle, apoptosis, extracellular matrix remodeling, and cell migration. Therefore, ETS transcription factors are thought to play a keyrole in tumor invasion and metastasis.

In order for one ETS family member, Ets2, to exert its effects it first must be phosphorylated. In serum-stimulated fibroblastcells, specific growth factors bind a receptor tyrosine-kinase which then activates Ras. A kinase cascade ensues, as Ras phosphorylates Raf, which phosphorylates Mek, which phosphorylates the MAP kinase Erk. Phosphorylated Erk translocates to the nucleus where it phosphorylates Ets2, which then promotes target gene expression. However, it is currently not known whether Ets2 is bound to the promoters of these target genes prior to phosphorylation. Thus the first goal of our research is to elucidate whether Ets2 is bound to its target gene promoters constitutively or only when phosphorylated by the activated pathway.

Another area of interest involves the state of the chromatin near these target genes both prior to and during transcription. Transcription factors exert their effects by interacting with other proteins such as chromatin remodeling complexes and histone modification enzymes. Ets2 is known to interact with the histone acetyltransferase CBP. Therefore we hypothesizethat there is increased acetylation of histones in the target gene area upon activation of the pathway, which leads to the opening up of the chromatin to allow for target gene transcription. The second goal of our research is to compare chromatinacetylation states before and during Ets2 target gene expression. We are investigating this by performing ChIP (chromatin immunoprecipitation) analysis on known Ets2 target genes c-myc, MMP-9, and miR17-92.


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Cedarville UniversityBenjamin D. Yeh



Stability of the Uncemented Hip Stem in THAResearch Topic:


Dr. Timothy NormanAdvisor(s):

Biography: I am a Senior Ohio Space Grant Scholarship recipient for the 2011–2012 school year. My hometown is California, Maryland. I am currently a Mechanical Engineering major at Cedarville University. My choice to major in mechanical engineering was one that developed throughout my years in grade school and high school, as I have always been fascinated by the devices and structures that we utilize every day. Over the past summers, I’ve been able to gain valuable experience through various internships with the Navy These internships provided a variety of opportunities, including drafting, aircraft installations, design work, and even time in a leadership position. The work that I’ve been doingwith Dr. Norman has primarily consisted of using finite element analysis in biomedical applications. It has been an interesting experience and I’ve found that it has helped to broaden my horizons as a mechanical engineer. I plan on taking the Fundamentals of Engineering exam this May and continuing to pursue a license as a Professional Engineer. I also planto pursue post-graduate education at some point in the future, likely with a focus on mechanics of materials; however, immediately following graduation, I will be taking a position with either Cummins or the Navy.

Abstract: Total hip arthroplasty (THA) is the surgical procedure of replacing the hip joint with a prosthetic implant. An important component of this implant is the hip stem; specifically, how it interfaces with the femur and retains stability over time. One undesirable behavior is relaxation of transverse stresses due to viscoelastic behavior (bone creep) [1] of bone cement and in the cortical bone itself [2,3]. The effect of this viscoelastic behavior in uncemented stems under press-fit conditions [4,5] is not well understood. Studies using two dimensional and axi-symmetric models have shown that the viscoelastic behavior of the cortical bone diminishes the contact pressure between the stem and bone but does not jeopardize the stem stability [4]; however, reducing the stem-bone contact area (less than 100% contact area) does reducestem stability [6]. Both un-cemented conditions have been modeled with axi-symmetric FEA models [5,6], and the cemented configuration with a full 3-D model of the femur [1,2]. I will be continuing work with Dr. Timothy Norman, developing a full 3-D model of an uncemented stem and performing analysis for multiple conditions. These conditions will include using both fixed and rough surface interface boundary conditions, non-press fit and press fit interface conditions, aswell as 100% contact and <100% contact area conditions. This will allow us to investigate the effects of both bone viscoelastic behavior and stem-bone contact area on stem stability in uncemented stems.

Works Cited:1. Norman, T. L., Thyagarajan, G., Saligrama, V. C., Gruen, T. A., Blaha, J. D. “Stem Surface Roughness Alters Creep

Induced Subsidence and ‘taper-lock’ in a Cemented Femoral Hip Prosthesis,” Journal of Biomechanics, Vol. 34, pp. 1325-1333, 2001.

2. Norman, T. L., Noble, G., Shultz, T., Gruen, T. A., and Blaha, J. D. “Creep of Cortical Bone and Short Term SubsidenceAfter Cemented Stem THA”.

3. Brown, C. U., Norman, T. L., Kish, V. L., Gruen, T. A., Blaha, J. D. “Time-dependent Circumferential Deformation of Cortical Bone Upon Internal Radial Loading,” J. Biomechanical Engineering, Vol. 124, pp. 456-461, 2002.

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Benjamin D. Yeh (Continued) Works Cited: (Continued) 4. Norman, T. L., Ackerman, E., Kish, V. L., Smith, T., Gruen, T. A., Yates, A. J., Blaha, J. D., “Cortical Bone

Viscoelasticity Has Diminishing Effects on Contact Pressure in Press-fit Stems but Does Not Jeopardize Implant Stability” 50th Annual Meeting, Orthopedic Research Society, San Francisco, CA, March 7-10, 2004, p. 505.

5. Shultz, T. R., Blaha, J. D., Gruen, T. A., Norman, T. L., “Cortical Bone Viscoelasticity and Fixation Strength of Press-fit Femoral Stems: A Finite Element Model,” J. Biomechanical Engineering, Vol. 128, pp. 7-12, 2006.

6. Norman, T. L., Todd, M. B., SanGregory, S. L., Dewhurst, T. B., “Partial Stem-bone Contact Area Significantly Reduces Stem Stability.” Accepted to the 52nd Annual Meeting, Orthopaedic Research Society, March 19-22, 2006, p. 680.


32

Cedarville UniversityJustin S. Nichols



Signaling Pathways of ACTH Peptide Fragments in Tetrahymena thermophila

Research Topic:

Junior, BiologyStatus:

Heather KuruvillaAdvisor(s):

Biography: I am a Junior Molecular and Cellular Biology major studying at Cedarville University. My hometown is Harleysville, PA, and I am the oldest of three boys. In high school I developed a passion for science, specifically biology. During college, I have realized that medicine is the best avenue to fulfill my desire to study science as well as my desire to serve others. Partially inspired by medical trips to Mexico and Swaziland, I hope to pursue a Medical Doctor Degree and practice in a medically under served area.

Abstract: Many molecules that are polyatomic cations cause a ciliary reversal response (also known as avoidance) in Tetrahymena thermophila. Particularly, various peptide fragments of adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) stimulate avoidance. Amino acids in fragments of ACTH cause peptide fragments of differing lengths to have different charges. ACTHpeptide fragments with a highly positive charge produce a greater organism response in lower concentrations than lower charged ACTH peptide fragments. ACTH is thought to cause depolarization of the cell through release of calcium, but the receptor ACTH uses to signal in Tetrahymena is unknown. The goal of this research project is to examine the signaling pathway in Tetrahymena that causes avoidance in the presence of positively charged ACTH fragments.


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Cedarville UniversityErkai L. Watson



Manufacturing Processes for Small Stirling EnginesResearch Topic:

Junior, Mechanical EngineeringStatus:

Jay KinsingerAdvisor(s):

Biography: Although I was born in the United States, I grew up mostly overseas. While growing up in Nicaragua, the combination of an American father, a Chinese mother, and Nicaraguan friends allowed me to become fluent in three different languages. After attending a local school in elementary, I was home schooled which gave me great flexibility to travel often to Taiwan and the U. S with my family. This flexible schedule also allowed me to pursue interests like carpentryand blacksmithing. The excitement of using a hammer and anvil or drill and saw to build my projects inspired and spurredme to pursue engineering.

At Cedarville my interest in hands-on projects led me towards machining. I joined Cedarville’s Supermileage competition team, a SAE sponsored competition to develop the most fuel efficient vehicle, and helped build the engine for the competition. After a year working with the team, I was selected to be leader of the engine group. Outside of engineering, my interests include playing the violin in the Cedarville orchestra, hiking, competitive fencing, and scuba diving. Upon graduation I plan to pursue a Master’s Degree in Mechanical Engineering.

Abstract: The objective of this project is to research and design an appropriate Stirling engine for manufacture by mechanical engineering students in a lab. The primary purpose of this lab is for students to gain a working knowledge of basic machining techniques. Considerations for this model engine are manufacturability by students, part expenses, and the heat source for the engine.

The first engine design considered was a simple alpha type Stirling engine. Although this design was not a suitable final design because of the large temperature difference that the engine was designed to run on, a prototype model was built in order to determine firsthand the effort and time that would be required to build a model Stirling engine. A second Stirling engine considered ran off a very small temperature difference. This gamma type Stirling engine had a very large displacer to piston size ratio which allowed it to run off a warm coffee cup and even the heat of a human hand. A prototype of this type of engine was built to determine its suitability. This engine required more precision and care in building, but resulted ina very impressive model. The heat source necessary for the engine was also safe and readily available.

The goal now is to simplify the design of the low temperature differential Stirling engine. By reducing the number of movingparts and prefabricating certain parts on CNC machines, the complexity of construction can be simplified considerably. Thiswill allow students to concentrate on machining key parts of the engine and assembly.


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Central State UniversityKristen D. Edwards



Nutritional Disparity Among African AmericansResearch Topic:

Senior, Computer ScienceStatus:

Dr. Asit SahaAdvisor(s):

Biography: Growing up in a less-privileged community has not only offered financial and academic challenges, but it hasmore importantly made me realize the value of a college education. I have begun my undergraduate career as a Senior at Central State University and can already report that my academics are off to a great start. I am currently working on completing a double major in Computer Science and Mathematics. Central State University offers a challenging Computer Science and Mathematics program and I am proud to say that my cumulative G.P.A is 3.6. Being new to the area of computer science, I am interested in networking. With the help of my educational mentors Mr. Gorgui (Manager for CenterOf Student Opportunities) and Mr. Marcus (Academic Advisor, Department Chair for Math and Computer Science), I plan toexplore the academic and career opportunities available in this field. I will surely prepare for graduate school. At this point inmy life I plan on attending graduate school at University of Dayton (in Dayton Ohio) in their Computer Science Program. After completing this program I hope to pursue a career in the Computer Science field.

Abstract: Vitamin D is a key nutrition for the human body – it helps to make the bones, muscles, and other parts of humanbody healthy. Without Vitamin D, a person can generate a wide variety of diseases, such as cancer, high blood pressure, depression, immune system disorders (sclerosis), rheumatoid arthritis and diabetics. African American women are at greater risks of having diseases related to Vitamin D deficiency. It affects African American women of all ages; nearly 70% are not getting enough Vitamin D.

The pathways Vitamin D follows inside the healthy body is very complicated. Knowledge of this complex dynamics of Vitamin D is very limited. Purpose of this research is to understand this complex dynamic through system biological approach, so that experimentalists can use our model outcomes as a guideline for their future endeavors.

In this paper we will present a basic simple model that explains the complex network of Vitamin D. An extensive computer simulation has been done to analyze the model. The parameters of the model are chosen arbitrarily. Our system dynamicalmodel is now available for experimental use with real clinical data.


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Central State UniversityCandace A. Johnson



Medicinal Plants and BacteriaResearch Topic:

Senior, BiologyStatus:

Dr. Lowell and Dr. KrishnaAdvisor(s):

Biography: I am an Illinois native, born in Chicago, and being the youngest of four. Prior to attending Central State University, I graduated from Neuqua Valley High School in Naperville, IL. I always had a strong interest in the science andhealth care field since adolescent. Science and mathematics always came easy to me as both subjects are relevant to everyday life. With there being a multitude of career paths in medicine that interest me, it wasn’t easy to narrow my options.Over the past year, I decided on a concentration in the field of dentistry after graduation. Eventually, I would like to secure agovernment position performing dental care.

Abstract: The primary focus of my research, alongside my two advisors, is to explore the secondary metabolites of common plants. Secondary compounds are chemicals produced by the plant that is not required for its survival. These compounds have physiological effects that have proven to be beneficial in the field of medicine. Most plants have been used as a form of holistic or alternative medicine. It has already been proven that a few plants found in Ohio and India has the ability to decrease the growth of different bacteria. The makeup of these various plants will be analyzed to find how these plants affect different strands of bacteria. Our ultimate goal is to establish a connection between medicinal plants andhuman diseases in a way that secondary metabolites have the ability to cure or treat these viruses.


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Central State UniversityNathaniel J. Morris

3rdCongressional District(s):

Michael R. TurnerCongressional Representative(s):

The Effects of Wildfires on VegetationResearch Topic:

Senior, Manufacturing EngineeringStatus:

Dr. Augustus Morris, Jr.Advisor(s):

Biography: Nathaniel J. Morris graduated from Trotwood Madison High School in Dayton as the Valedictorian. He is currently studying Manufacturing Engineering at Central State University. He will graduate in May, 2012, with a Baccalaureate Degree in Manufacturing Engineering and plans to pursue a Ph.D. at The Ohio State University. He belongsto professional organizations such as NSBE (National Society for Black Engineers), SME (Society for Manufacturing Engineers), and the STEM (Science Technology Engineering and Math) Club. He participates in these clubs/organizations to increase his professional development and understanding about the engineering profession.

In the Summer of 2009 his research involved using classical physics and frustrated total internal reflection to produce a multi-touch system. During the Summer of 2010 he interned as a manufacturing engineer at ATK (Alliant Tech Systems), manufacturing antennas and radomes. Additionally, he was privileged to work on the MPS (Master Production schedule), Process Standards, digital database, Quality Audits, and including the CAPEP program hosted at Central State University;A college prep-program for high school students entering the STEM fields. Currently his research is focused on a high altitude payload that record imagery data to aid in a geospatial analysis. The geospatial analysis is targeted toward the effects of wildfires on vegetation. The stabilization of the imagery is compensated by a 3 axis attitude sensor. After the implication of the electronic, thermodynamic, and system designs, the payload will be assembled and prepared for rigoroustesting. The flight test will ensure that the payload will perform correctly in near space conditions with a low probability of failing. Finally the multispectral imaging apparatus will be integrated into a high altitude payload and used to observe the effects of wildfires on vegetation.

Abstract: In order to determine the fire affects on vegetation and forestry, multispectral remote imaging is the technique used to collect imagery data. The image sensor for remote sensing should be at an altitude of 36 km to capture a sufficientamount of affected areas. The payload will be mounted on the High Altitude Student Payload (HASP). The payload must conform to HASP’s interface requirements and regulations. As HASP ascends to 36 km above sea level, the payload and itsinternal components must survive extremely low temperatures and near vacuum conditions. Since HASP is lifted by a smallvolume zero pressure balloon, the HASP platform is subjected to unpredictable rotations and tilting along its axes, which ultimately affects the image’s geographical location. The orientation of HASP will be determined using electronics and a 3 axis tilt sensor. The compensation for rotation and tilting is to guarantee an effective and a high quality remote sensing experiment. The collection of multispectral images will be processed and analyzed by using the geospatial software, ENVI from the company Exelis.


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Central State UniversityChellvie L. Brooks



Atmospheric Temperature Analysis and Aerial Photography throughHigh Altitude Ballooning

Research Topic:

Junior, Manufacturing EngineeringStatus:


Biography: I was born and raised in Dayton, Ohio, by my beautiful mother and grandmother, Litisia and Charlene Roberts. I am the middle child of three young ladies. I am the first to attend a school of higher education. I attended Belmont High School freshman year and finished my sophomore through senior year at John H. Patterson Career Center; where I studied different fields of engineering. I am currently attending Central State University as an undergraduate, studying Manufacturing Engineering with a minor in Business Administration. Here at Central State, I am a Publications Officer for the National Society for Black Engineers also known as NSBE, whose duties are to promote and inform other students of opportunities, grants and scholarships through the program; as well as design any posters or promotion items for on campus activities. I am also a member of the Society of Manufacturing Engineering. Since I’ve been in undergrad I have maintained the Dean’s List, which requires a 3.0 grade point average or higher. Outside of campus life, I am a member of a non-profit organization known as God’s Greatest Gifts or 3G’s. After my matriculation here at Central State, I plan to further my education by attending graduate school with a concentration in Computer Engineering. After receiving myMaster’s Degree, I hope to begin the working portion of my career.

Abstract: Central State University has a student balloon satellite program to provide opportunities leading students to choose careers in the aerospace fields. A major goal of the program is to routinely launch scientific payloads to altitudes reaching 100,000 ft using helium-filled weather balloons. This effort emphasized the planning, acquisition, and operation ofa successful ballooning mission to an altitude up to 100,000 ft. Parallel to this effort, a payload enclosure was designed to house the instrumentation and power needed to collect atmospheric temperature data and aerial photographs during the mission automatically. A Hobo data logger is a small and inexpensive device, and it was easily programmed to sample andstore the temperature data. A Canon ELPH camera was interfaced with a simple electronic timer circuit to take photographs of the landscape at fixed intervals of time. The temperature data collected was compared with the U. S. standard atmospheric model of the Troposphere referenced by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA), and the United States Air Force (USAF).


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Central State UniversityBeatrice M. Burse-Wooten



The Effect of Multi-Walled Carbon Nanotubes on the Mechanical Strength of Fiber Reinforced Polymeric Resins

Research Topic:


Dr. Abayomi Ajayi-Majebi, P.E.Advisor(s):

Biography: I am undergraduate student majoring in Manufacturing Engineering with a minor in Business. I am originally from Cincinnati, Ohio, where I graduated from Walnut Hills High School. I am now a Junior attending Central State University in Wilberforce, Ohio. I am currently involved in several organizations on campus including the National Society for Black Engineers (NSBE), Society for Manufacturing Engineers (SME), Student Support Services, and I am a tutor. In addition to the OSGC Scholarship, I am a Benjamin Baneker Scholar, a Boeing Scholar, and a Do-Stem Scholar. My interests include car repairs, journaling, and computerized drawings. Upon graduation I plan to go to graduate school for Engineering Management.

Abstract: This research is aimed at evaluating the mechanical strength improvement effects of multi-walled carbon nanotubes the preparation of IZOD impact test specimens cured in a forty-two-(42)-sample mold. These molds will be made in the Manufacturing Engineering Department by mixing polymeric resins with carbon nanofibers in a fiber reinforcement matrix made of either kevlar fiber reinforcement or glass fiber reinforcement. The specimens will be cured ina temperature controlled high precision oven and then tested for mechanical strength using an INSTRON tensile testing machine and an IZOD impact testing machine. An experimental design will be performed to ensure a scientifically valid experimental testing program. A computer program would be written to batch the various components to be mixed prior to the specimen curing process. The strength of the control group (with no nanomaterials interspersed) IZOD test specimenswill be compared to the nanomaterial interspersed group. The strength improvements obtained or the lack thereof by nanomaterial infusion would be evaluated using statistical analysis techniques.


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Central State UniversityDominique N. Roberts



Investigation and Design of a Powered Parafoil and Its Applicationsin Remote Sensing

Research Topic:



Biography: It wasn’t until my junior year in high school that I realized or had an idea of what I wanted to pursue as my future career. Being a well-rounded student, it was difficult for me to identify what I really had a passion for. While in high school I discovered my interest for science. My most accomplished project didn’t occur until junior year, but it was well worththe wait. Amongst many other awards and scholarships, my accomplishment earned me a trip to Atlanta, Georgia, for the international science fair. The best thing that has happened as a result of my new found aspiration was the acceptance to Central State University, and the scholarships that were presented to me. Entering in the Manufacturing Engineering field was the opportunity for me to enhance my skills and use them to better my community in the future. The opportunities available through this program are endless. I can now say that I have found my passion and I have the chance to make it my career. I have done so by accepting multiple internships with well recognized companies in my industry and applying mynewly acquired skills.

Abstract: A powered parafoil is a type of aircraft which typically falls in the category of ultra light aircraft. Training, but nota pilot’s license is required to fly a powered parafoil. This type of aircraft is suited for flying at low altitudes and speeds. Even though the parafoil is a flexible wing structure, is proven to be a stable platform for flying and maneuvering at low speeds. This may be a perfect platform for remote sensing the health of vegetation on small to medium sized farms.

This project will look at the design of a small, remotely controlled, powered parafoil capable of carrying a lightweight camerasystem able to collect images in the visible light and near infrared range for later processing. Such a system could prove tobe ideal for many of the local farmers in the Central State vicinity. This investigation will consider the challenges of carryingthe appropriate sensors, keeping the total mass to a minimum, and controlling its position through remote control. Initial results from this investigation will form the basis for future work in the area of precision agriculture.


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Cleveland StateDavid J. Sadey



Parameter Identification and Artificial Generation of Electrocardiograms

Research Topic:

Senior, Electrical EngineeringStatus:

Dr. Daniel SimonAdvisor(s):

Biography: I was born in Parma, Ohio, to two loving parents and have one younger brother. I graduated from Parma Senior High School in 2008 and chose to attend Cleveland State University to pursue a degree in Electrical Engineering. Over the past few years I have worked in the Embedded Systems Lab at my University and also interned at URS Corporation. Throughout my employment I have gained valuable experience in programming a 3-dimensional finger mouse,as well as drawing schematics for relay protection and SCADA systems. At this current moment I am working on lighting theCSU Rooftop Garden using advanced control technology in conjunction with Solar Panels. I plan on staying at Cleveland State University upon graduation to pursue a Master’s Degree in Electrical Engineering.

Abstract: An electrocardiogram, or ECG, is a noninvasive test that records the electrical activity of the heart. ECGs are used for a variety of purposes, including the diagnoses and treatment of cardiac diseases. The identification of these cardiac diseases can be performed in a number of ways, and there is an ever growing list of diagnostic algorithms being developed for this purpose. To establish the performance of a given diagnostic algorithm, the algorithm itself must be testedacross multiple ECGs with varying sampling rates, signal-to-noise ratios, heart rates, and so on. Finding an ECG with a number of specific features may, however, be difficult and time consuming.

The aim of my research is to develop dynamic ECG models for a number of cardiac conditions, whose characteristics can be varied as one sees fit. The ability to vary the characteristics of an ECG with a given cardiac condition will allow for betterperformance evaluation of diagnostic algorithms. The parameters for these dynamic models will be obtained through the implementation of biogeography-based optimization (BBO) and gradient descent optimization (GDO) algorithms. BBO is anevolutionary algorithm that will initially be used to find a near-optimal solution for the parameters of a given ECG waveform.The results of BBO will then be passed to GDO, which is a first-order optimization algorithm that will help find the optimum parameter values that minimize the difference between the actual and synthetic waveforms.


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Cleveland StateCarré D. Scheidegger



Electrocardiogram Signal Parameter Identification and Heart Abnormality Diagnosis using Biogeography-Based Optimization

Research Topic:


Dr. Daniel SimonAdvisor(s):

Biography: I am a Senior at Cleveland State University receiving the Ohio Space Grant Scholarship for the 2011-2012 school year. I graduated from Normandy High School in 2008 and chose to pursue a goal in the field of engineering at Cleveland State University. I will be graduating in the Spring of 2012. I excelled in math at Normandy High School and really enjoyed its applications to the real world which inspired me to pursue my future in Electrical Engineering. While pursuing my degree at Cleveland State University I began researching with Dr. Daniel Simon in the Embedded Systems Laboratory. I investigate Dr. Simon’s recently created evolutionary algorithm called Biogeography-Based Optimization (BBO). I have researched with Dr. Simon since my sophomore year and am continuing to apply BBO to various applications. I work part-time as an intern at General Electric Lighting and have been a member on both the HID and LFL teams. I would like to continue to study after I graduate with my undergraduate degree and receive a Master’s Degree in Electrical Engineering. I have been accepted into the Edison Program at General Electric Lighting as a full-time employee starting in the Summer of 2012.

Abstract: I present an application of an evolutionary algorithm called biogeography-based optimization (BBO) for recognizing various heart abnormalities using electrocardiograms characteristic parameter identification. BBO is an evolutionary algorithm based on the theory of biogeography, which describes how nature geographically distributes organisms. BBO has been developed based on natural occurrences theories (theory of evolution, survival of the fittest) anduses these concepts to optimize solutions for different situations and problems. BBO has been applied if various areas of study including Benchmark simulations and experimental robotics application. This research focuses on investigating the algorithm even further. I explored the algorithm’s ability to identify characteristic parameters of a bioelectrical signal and in turn use these parameters to diagnose various heart abnormalities. I used a simulated ECG signal in order to test the ability of BBO to identify the characteristic parameters. I also present results of parameter identification with actual ECG signals through the MIT Database. These results should reveal that BBO is capable of identifying the parameters of the ECG signal over generations to minimize cost for accurate parameter values. To further this research, I plan on using the known parameters to diagnose various heart abnormalities.

Publications:1. Ohio Space Grant Consortium Proceedings, “Distributed Learning and Intelligence with Biogeography – Based

Optimization”, Carré` Scheidegger, Cleveland State University, April, 2011.2. C. Scheidegger, A. Shah, and D. Simon, “Distributed Learning with Biogeography-Based Optimization,” 24th

International Conference on Industrial Engineering and Other Applications of Applied Intelligent Systems, Syracuse, New York, pp. 203−215, 2011.

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Cleveland StateCiara C. Seitz



Thermally Responsive Polypeptide Nanoparticles: Design and Characterization

Research Topic:

Senior, Chemical EngineeringStatus:

Dr. Nolan B. HollandAdvisor(s):

Biography: My name is Ciara Seitz and I am a Senior Ohio Space Grant Scholarship recipient. I graduated from Normandy High School in 2008, and I currently attend Cleveland State University where I am working towards B.A. in Chemical Engineering, with a minor in chemistry. I have also been a part of CSU’s Honors Program for 4 years. I have always loved math and science so I knew engineering was the perfect path for me. Currently, I am the Corresponding Secretary of Tau Beta Pi at Cleveland State University and also a member of the Society of Women Engineers and AICHe.The past two years I have been researching with Dr. Nolan Holland at CSU, focusing on stimuli-responsive materials. Nextfall I will begin my Master’s Degree in Chemical Engineering at CSU, while continuing my research. Upon graduating I planto obtain a job in the energy industry, where I would like to research improving efficiency and sustainability of energy technologies.

Abstract: Elastin-like polypeptides are responsive polymers, which consist of repeats of a five amino acid sequence. These ELPs are a common system used in the laboratory where I do my research. They are protein-based materials that are designed using recombinant DNA technology in order to control the structure of the material and biosynthesized in bacterial expression systems. I began as a lab assistant and have learned the processes used to construct these materials.

I began working with Dr. Holland and his doctoral students who were studying these stimuli-responsive materials, which canbe altered by changes to their local environment such as temperature, salt concentration, pH levels, etc. These changes have been focused on developing hydrogel materials for drug delivery and tissue engineering applications. We are workingon developing materials that overcome the slow response time and small magnitude of the response of traditional responsive hydrogels. I will be working with Dr. Holland on my research project and will conduct the research in Summer and Fall, 2011, and continue on after the scholarship period.

Another area that has been focused on with the ELPs has been their critical solution temperature. The polymers consist of repeats of the sequence GVGVP (G = glycine, V = valine, P = proline), where the first valine can be replaced by any of the 19 other naturally occurring amino acids and the second can be replaced by any except proline. By changing the valines inthe sequence we are making a polypeptide with a reduced critical solution temperature. Most of the polypeptides currentlyproduced in the lab exhibit a transition temperatures well above room temperature, however it is desirable to be able to usethem at room temperature, where characterization can more easily be achieved. The proposal for my research lies within this idea that changing the amino acids can lower temperature. To accomplish this, I will replace valines with either phenylalanine to produce new polypeptides. These polymers will be made to various lengths and then fully characterized.


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Cleveland StateCharles F. Tillie



Characterization of Chemical Vapor Deposition ProcessesResearch Topic:


Dr. Jorge GaticaAdvisor(s):

Biography: I am presently a third year student pursuing a degree in Chemical Engineering. I am also enrolled in my university’s accelerated Master’s Program, so I shall graduate in 2013 with my graduate degree. I hope to work in the field of alternative energies upon graduation. I became interested in the field during my sophomore year of high school, when I first discovered my affinity for chemistry. I have always dreamed of making the world a better place somehow, and workingas a chemical engineer provides hundreds of avenues for doing so, big or small. As luck would have it, I grew up only 20 minutes from a school with an excellent reputation for engineering, Cleveland State University (CSU). My time there has immersed me in countless new ideas and given me so many opportunities to learn, including and beyond the classroom. Further, the Chemical Engineering program has exposed me to some of the most sincere and caring people I have had theprivilege to meet. Although I already knew it, my research experience in the summertime confirmed that I had made the right choice.

I am a member of CSU’s Honors Program and the STEM Program. I was inducted into the school’s chapter of Tau Beta Pi and currently serve as the Treasurer. I have also served as President of CSU’s chapter of the Alpha Lambda Delta honor society. I play on the school’s rugby team and also enjoy bowling in my spare time.

Abstract: For many years, chromate-based coating processes have been used by industry to generate protective coatingson metallic surfaces to ensure the success of subsequent applications. These processes possess a threat for significant environmental impact and have, therefore, been subject to strict regulations under the Clean Water Act and other environmental initiatives. New approaches in coating technology, therefore, need to be investigated to provide alternative practical options that could meet EPA mandates. This research focuses on calorimetric and spectroscopic analyses to characterize the chemical interaction of precursors with different transition metals. Using a differential scanning calorimeter,deposition experiments are carried out, and the results are processed to produce a mathematical model from which the reaction kinetic parameters can be extracted.


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Marietta CollegeAaron M. Balderson



Methane Invasion Into Fresh Water Aquifers in Susquehanna County, Pennsylvania

Research Topic:

Senior, Petroleum EngineeringStatus:

Dr. Ben W. EbenhackAdvisor(s):

Biography: I began as a freshman at Marietta College in the Fall of 2008 declared as a Petroleum Engineering major. In the Spring of 2009 I added mathematics as a second major for I was intrigued at the integral role that mathematics plays inengineering calculations. It has come to assist me greatly in understanding risk analysis determinations.

Always wanting to further my knowledge in the petroleum industry I came across the opportunity to work on a project sponsored by the Ohio Space Grant Program. After comparing multiple project ideas I settled on investigating further the cause of methane invasion in fresh water aquifers. An ongoing lawsuit in Pennsylvania got me interested in the topic. I knew that if drilling activity caused the invasion remedial steps would need to be created to alleviate the problem. Immediately I saw potential applications in the petroleum industry as a whole if the issue could be resolved.

Abstract: Cabot Oil & Gas was ordered to plug three wells in Dimock, Pennsylvania, due to methane invasion into fresh water aquifers. Upon investigation of the source of this methane it was scientifically determined that the methane did not originate from the Marcellus Shale but a shallower geological formation in geologic depth. Could precautionary steps havebeen taken to avoid this invasion? A review of the drilling records may reveal some processes that need to be accounted for when drilling a well in general. If steps are found that need to be added to the drilling process to avoid any invasion in the future, these need to be discovered and implemented worldwide immediately.


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Marietta CollegeJennifer E. Masters



Analytical Models for Waterflooding in the Appalachian BasinResearch Topic:

Senior, Petroleum EngineeringStatus:

David C. FreemanAdvisor(s):

Biography: I am a Senior majoring in Petroleum Engineering at Marietta College in Marietta, Ohio. I will be graduating inMay and have accepted a job with Computer Modelling Group in Houston, Texas.

Abstract: The production of oil and gas has been a major part of the Appalachian Basin’s industry since the first well was drilled in 1859. More recently, the production of natural gas from unconventional shale reservoirs has over shadowed oil production in the area. With the current price differential between oil and gas, it is potentially lucrative to reexamine the oilwells that used to dominate the industry. Most of these wells were produced solely on primary production, meaning just a small fraction of the original-oil-in-place has been recovered. One secondary recovery option that has been used successfully in the Basin is waterflooding. Implementing a well-designed waterflood will likely lead to a greater percentageof the original-oil-in-place being recovered. An issue that a producer may encounter when considering a waterflood is the lack of easy-to-use analytical models to predict waterflood performance. It is often not feasible to spend the time and money it would take to have a waterflood simulation performed. In light of this, the focus of this project will be to produce aneffective, user-friendly analytical model to predict waterflood performance. Two popular models, Craig-Geffen-Morse (CGM) and Dykstra-Parsons (DP), will be integrated into an Excel program to allow the user to predict and graphically display the performance of a potential waterflood. The CGM model focuses on oil displacement by water and can handle avariable water injection rate over the life of the flood. It is considered the premier 5-spot waterflood pattern analytical model.The DP model features the ability to handle significant vertical reservoir permeability heterogeneity. Correlations for fluid properties will also be included so that only limited data will be required to run the models. Finally, the user will be able to run the project economics in order to decide under what economic conditions the waterflood would be feasible. To illustratethe usefulness of the program, a potential Ohio waterflood (Harrison County) and ongoing West Virginia waterflood (Calhoun and Roane Counties) will be modeled and discussed.


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Marietta CollegeMatthew C. Boothe


Patrick J. TiberiCongressional Representative(s):

Down Hole Motor Optimization in Unconventional Shale PlaysResearch Topic:

Junior, Petroleum EngineeringStatus:

Dr. Ben W. EbenhackAdvisor(s):

Biography: Currently, I am in the second semester of my junior year at Marietta College. I am pursuing both a B.S. in Petroleum Engineering and a minor in Geology. Before embarking on my academically rigorous collegiate experience, I enjoyed playing baseball and football at Dublin Jerome High School. There, I discovered my love for math, science, engineering and geology alongside my continuous love for athletics.

My choice to attend Marietta was initially made based on my pursuit of becoming a college baseball player for a top notch Division III program. But when my arm could not hold up and I was cut from the team, it turned out to be a great blessing indisguise. With my free time and high aspirations for success, I have been able to become extremely active in campus extracurriculars and academic honors such as this. I am president of Campus Crusade for Christ, Vice Chair of College Republicans, and the Historian for the Society of Petroleum Engineers. These leadership positions along with two summer internships in the oil and gas industry have helped give me the opportunity to really grow as an individual and help shape who I am today.

Abstract: This research project will combine my personal statistical analysis combined with other publications in order to take a look at 3, 5 and 7 stage positive displacement drilling motors in unconventional shale plays. I will be using data from the Fayetteville Devonian shale that is located in the south central region of the country. The age and nature of this rock should make it comparable to the Marcellus Shale of Pennsylvania and the Utica Shale of Ohio. New technologies in the oiland gas industries are ever changing, providing a vast array of assemblies from which a drilling engineer may choose. Some of these assemblies (such as a rotary steerable motor) can cost millions of dollars each day to operate. However, proper application of positive displacement motors may offer comparable or better performance.

Due to the complex nature of horizontal drilling, an adjustment to the bottom hole assembly is necessary in order to optimize the efficiency of the motor and decrease drilling time. Because positive displacement motors are operated in directional drilling by turning the bit, the length of this bottom hole assembly is crucial to the curvature developed in the directional well bore. However, once the drilling of the horizontal/lateral section is commenced, the main objective of the drilling engineer is a clean well bore, and a high rate of penetration.

My research aims to develop and optimization function based on specific formation characteristics and rates of penetration to find a practical motor assembly that can operate more efficiently. Essentially, I would like to find the breaking point between drilling time (which translates to capital) and the increased rate of penetration. Combining this with other variableswill yield an answer that can hopefully provide a faster and better drilling practice in the lateral portion of the well.


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Marietta CollegeJames P. Houck



The Diversity of ShaleResearch Topic:

Junior, Petroleum EngineeringStatus:

Dr. Ben EbenhackAdvisor(s):

Biography: I am a Junior at Marietta College studying Petroleum Engineering and Geology. I am member of the Society of Petroleum Engineers at Marietta College and I currently hold the position of Treasurer Elect for this chapter.

Having been raised outside Marietta, Ohio, attending Marietta College was a natural choice for me. The Marietta area is filled with a rich history in the gas and oil industry and Marietta College is a great place to learn all of the finer points of petroleum engineering.

I have thus far enjoyed my study of petroleum engineering and I plan on continuing my education after Marietta College through practical experience within the industry.

Abstract: Shale rock has always served its purpose in the oil and gas industry. It has been recognized as a cap rock and itcan contain substantial hydrocarbon reservoirs. However, with new interest in the newly exploited shale reservoirs, the question must be asked, “Are all shale rocks created equally?” Shale can vary in its physical and chemical properties, making it have varying values as a practical hydrocarbon reservoir.


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Miami UniversityLaura M. Bendula



Maximizing Wind Turbine EfficiencyResearch Topic:


Dr. James Van KurenAdvisor(s):

Biography: I am a Senior Mechanical Engineering student at Miami University. I grew up in Brookville, Ohio, and went to Brookville High School, where I developed a passion for science. After attending the Dayton Honors Seminars in high school, I gained an interest in Engineering, specifically in the areas of aerospace and materials science. At Miami University I’ve become involved with the AIAA and have been a teacher’s assistant for vibrations, advanced mechanics of materials, and fluids mechanics. I also have conducted research with wind turbines, vibrations, and fluid dynamics. In my free time, I enjoy ice skating, screen printing, and playing with my dog, Professor Plum. I will be relocating to the Akron area after graduation to work as an Applications Engineer for Babcock & Wilcox.

Abstract: Wind turbines are a growing field of interest in the engineering field, as they allow for the harnessing of power using wind. The maximum efficiency of wind power by turbines is around 60 percent (by Betz’ law) and current wind turbines are able to reach 45-50 percent efficiency. By studying rotor blade friction and drag, it is possible to increase the efficiency of wind turbines. The project will focus on the modeling of different airfoil shapes for the basis of the impellor andthe testing of prototypes in a wind tunnel. Programs such as NX and FLUENT will be used for computational fluid dynamicanalysis and multiple airfoil drag coefficients will be studied within the programs. A final, optimized design will be suggestedat the conclusion of the project.


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Miami UniversityMartha E. Garasky


John A. BoehnerCongressional Representative(s):

Summary Web ServiceResearch Topic:

Senior, Computer EngineeringStatus:

Dr. Peter JamiesonAdvisor(s):

Biography: I am a Senior Computer Engineering major and Computer Science minor from Ames, Iowa, studying at MiamiUniversity. This past summer I performed research as an Undergraduate Summer Scholarship (USS) recipient working closely with Dr. Peter Jamieson to optimize the Affinity Propagation algorithm using a Field Programmable Gate Array (FPGA). This experience allowed me to become familiar with the algorithm that my research project for this semester is employing.

I became interested in Computer Engineering because I have always been fond of mathematics as well as solving problemsin a logical manner. After graduating from Miami, I hope to become a Professional Engineer and eventually work my way into an upper management position of an engineering company and possibly relocate to Australia.

Abstract: The objective for this project is to create a service that the public can use to summarize documents. Such a toolwill be beneficial not only for summarizing articles for leisure reading, but also during researching. Using this service will allow research to be more effective due to the summaries being more accurate than the information found in an abstract. This also saves time by having the program scan the document quickly and efficiently to determine whether the article is relevant rather than a person doing it manually.

The ultimate goal for the project is to have this service available on the web as a browser extension. As of now the programis not web ready. The program is being created as an executable that will be available online for download for a user to runfrom their desktop offline. Creating the web service as a browser extension will be the project focus during the Spring 2012semester.

The final product will be a Firefox or Chrome extension/plug-in that a user could choose to download. By choosing this course of action, the users will have a button on their browser that initiates the program. While on an article site, the user can click the button, and an additional window would pop up with a summary of the article.

This service will be executed through the implementation of affinity propagation. This algorithm takes a collection of data points and through a series of real-time message passing between the points, creates clusters that are each represented byone point called an exemplar. For the purpose of this project, the sentences within a document are being considered as thedata points. The summarizing sentences that the user will receive will be the exemplar for each cluster.

Affinity propagation has been used prior to this project as the clustering algorithm to find the summarizing sentences withina document. I am trying to recreate this work and make it available as a user friendly interface.


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50

Miami UniversityStephen E. Lai



Experimental Framework for Analysis of Curved Structures Under Random Excitation: Effect of Boundary Condition and Geometric Imperfections

Research Topic:


Dr. Amit ShuklaAdvisor(s):

Biography: For the first twenty one years of my life, I grew up in Southwestern Connecticut in Fairfield County. I have andstill continue to travel extensively with my family within the United States and internationally. During my time at New Canaan High School, I began to delve into the realm of physics, both in and outside of my formal studies.

My college career began at Providence College where I focused on courses in math and physics. The desire to major in engineering led to my transfer to Miami University of Ohio. Majoring in Mechanical Engineering, and a previous internship ata civil engineering company, has introduced me to the field of aerospace research and has helped to broaden my outlook on possible future career paths. The research that I have done for the Ohio Space Grant Consortium has helped me to better understand the real-world aspects of testing techniques and accumulating data in a professional manner. I am looking forward to opportunities that will allow me to continue similar work in other research endeavors.

Abstract: The design and development of next generation of hypersonic aircraft structure would require an ability to predictthe nonlinear response of the structure under the given operating conditions with a reliable estimate of accuracy of the predicted results. Air Force Research Laboratory’s (AFRL) Structural Sciences Center is interested in formulating, developing and implementing physics-based, computational-analytical-experimental methods and models for the non-linearstructural response of aerospace structures subjected to combined extreme environments (coupled thermo-acoustic-mechanical loading). It has been observed that boundary conditions and the geometric imperfections are the two prominentsources of uncertainty in the response. In this research, a clamped-clamped curved beam will be used to illustrate the effectof geometric imperfections and the boundary conditions on the model development and hence the response. The overarching goal of this research is to illustrate an approach for validating models for hypersonic aircraft applications.


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51

Miami UniversityRobert A. Sinko



Sensing and Energy Harvesting Capabilities of MagnetorheologicalElastomers

Research Topic:

Senior, Mechanical Engineering/StatisticsStatus:

Dr. Jeong-Hoi KooAdvisor(s):

Biography: I am currently a Senior at Miami University pursuing a Bachelor’s Degree in Mechanical Engineering, as well as a Bachelor’s Degree in Statistics. I am involved in a number of different engineering activities on campus including the Miami University Baja Team, for which I serve as the team suspension lead. Additionally, my senior capstone project this year has focused on developing a small-scale reverse osmosis system for home maple syrup producers in an effort to possibly market this system in the future. Beyond school, I have had the opportunity to participate in the Lewis EducationalResearch Collaborative Internship Program (LERCIP) at NASA Glenn Research Center during the summer of 2009 and 2010. I worked on a number of different test rigs at the Center during my first summer and focused on trade studies of space vehicle components during my second summer. I have had extensive research experience over the past few years focusing on the field of smart materials and resulting in a number of presentations and publications. I have presented my work at the 2011 American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) Smart Materials, Adaptive Structures, and Intelligent Systems (SMASIS) Conference and am working on getting theses results published in the Journal of Intelligent Material Systems and Structures (JIMSS). Another great opportunity I have had with my research is the opportunity to travel to South Korea during the winter of 2010 as well as the summer of 2011 and work at the Korea Advanced Institute of Scienceand Technology (KASIT). Not only was this an educational experience in terms of what I learned from my research in getting to collaborate with international colleagues, but it was also an impactful cultural experience. I plan on attending graduate school starting in the fall with the ultimate goal of gaining my Ph.D. in the field of Mechanical Engineering. I hope that by gaining this degree, I will have the opportunity to teach at the college level someday, as teaching is something I trulyenjoy and have a passion for.

Abstract: Magnetorheological elastomers (MREs) are an emerging branch within the smart materials field that consists of hard or soft magnetic particles embedded in a rubber compound. Current applications and research have been focused onchanging the stiffness of these materials and have shown promise in using these materials as components of vibration absorbers and base isolation systems. These particular applications use soft magnetic material, however MREs that contain hard magnetic filler materials, those that remain permanently magnetized, were the primary focus of this project andare referred to as H-MREs. When a magnetic field is applied perpendicularly to these particles, the filler particles generate torque and can be used as a controlled actuator. Preliminary work has been conducted to characterize these H-MREs (since their properties are significantly different than “soft” MREs) and this work has shown their usefulness in engineering applications. The results of this research are an integral part of this proposed project as the results helped develop the methodology and goals of the project.


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Robert A. Sinko (Continued) Abstract: (Continued) Two new applications for which H-MREs could be useful are energy harvesting and sensing. Sensors are utilized almost everywhere today as they are used to monitor the performance of a system, whether it is fluid flow, vibration measurements, etc. Piezoelectric materials, those that respond to electric stimuli, and Galfenol, an engineered material similar to MREs, have been studied extensively for their application as self-sensing actuators. It is hypothesized that H-MREs could be used in a similar capacity by developing a way to monitor the displacement of the material using a magnetic circuit. Energy harvesting involves the conversion of one form of energy (kinetic, solar, etc.) into a storable form. Previous research has been conducted on using other smart materials in this capacity and it is also hypothesized that H-MREs could be used in a similar capacity by capturing energy from mechanical vibrations and storing it in the form of electrical energy/power using a specialized circuit and the same principles discussed above. The primary goal of this project will be to determine the feasibility of using H-MREs in the capacity of energy harvesting and sensing technology. A number of different samples were fabricated with varying properties (size, base compound, filler material, etc.) in order to study the effects of these variables on the performance. Experiments were then developed to study the behavior of H-MREs as sensors and energy harvesters in a number of different configurations in an effort to develop mathematical models to predict their behavior and performance. Finally, these models and experimental results were used to develop potential devices that could be utilized in the future in sensing or energy harvesting applications. Publications: 1. R. Sinko, M. Karnes, J. H. Koo, Y. K. Kim, and K. S. Kim, "Design and Test of an Adaptive Tuned Vibration

Absorber for Reducing Cryogenic Cooler Vibrations," Proceedings of the ASME 2011 Conference on Smart Materials, Adaptive Structures, and Intelligent Systems (SMASIS 2010), September 18-21, 2011, Phoenix, Arizona.

53

Miami UniversityHarrison W. Bourne



Ionosphere Induced Error Self-correction for Single Frequency GPSReceivers

Research Topic:

Junior, Electrical EngineeringStatus:

Dr. Yu MortonAdvisor(s):

Biography: Harrison Bourne is a Junior Electrical Engineering student at Miami University. He is a research assistant in the Electrical Engineering department studying methods of mitigating Ionosphere induced error in GPS receivers. He has also participated in research in the physics department focused on laser spectroscopy and atom cooling. Mr. Bourne is a member of Tau Beta Pi engineering honor society and the Miami branch of IEEE.

Abstract: GPS measurements have many error sources. The most prominent source is the ionosphere error. Currently the most effective method for calculating Ionosphere induced error utilizes dual frequency GPS receivers which receive twosignals broadcast by GPS satellites. Because the error caused by fluctuations in the ionosphere is frequency dependent, the receiver calculates it via a simple equation. However, dual frequency receivers are expensive because they must receive and process two signals. Most consumer GPS devices are single frequency receivers. The typical method for correcting ionosphere error in a single frequency receiver involves using a model of ionosphere behavior. The information keeping this model current is updated by the GPS system’s control segment and sent out via the GPS satellite's navigationmessage. Even the best of these models can not correct more than 75%-80% of the error due to the extreme variability of the ionosphere; a better solution is needed.

The ionosphere correction method under development strives to fulfill that need. This method does not rely on a model to predict the ionosphere error, rather it allows the electron content (TEC) of the ionosphere above the receiver to be an additional variable in the equation used to calculate the receiver’s position. This allows the ionosphere error to be calculatedalong with the receiver’s position, thereby eliminating its effect on the position solution. This method assumes the ionosphere error across the entire sky is constant which is not true. However we can account for this by also considering the special derivatives of the ionosphere error. This strategy has an additional benefit, it generates a real-time map of the TEC of the ionosphere.

To determine if this method of error correction is valid the software for calculating user position is coded in MATLAB and both simulated and real GPS data is used to find the receiver position. Because we are only interested in the effects of the ionosphere on the position solution the data used should have all other errors removed. For the simulation the precise range between the receiver and the satellites is calculated and ionosphere error is added to this range. The ionosphere error is calculated from a TEC map available from the International GNSS Service. The real data, on the other hand, must be processed to remove unwanted errors, which is a lengthy process. The simulation portion of the project is complete andhas shown that the error correction method works in principle. Much of the real data software is also complete, however further refinement is required before it will produce results.


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Miami UniversityMichael P. Karnes



The Application of Magnetorheological Elastomer in a Base Isolation System

Research Topic:


Dr. Jeong-Hoi KooAdvisor(s):

Biography: Michael grew up in Columbus, Ohio. He is currently studying Mechanical Engineering at Miami University, where he is also involved with the American Society of Mechanical Engineers and the Tau Beta Pi fraternity. He has workedas a residence assistant for over two years, assisting over 30 residents with academic, career and life dilemmas.

Michael has a curiosity that has led him many places. He has spent a summer wandering Western Europe and another summer conducting research in South Korea. It also causes e his enjoyment while working with his fish tank, observing thebalance as he tinkers with the process of the tank.

In the future, Michael is excited to work as an engineer, creating to improve the quality of life. He is not set on a particular field, but hopes to remain in an area of discovery and innovation, where he can continue his pursuit of curiosity.

Abstract: This project designs and tests the feasibility of a Magnetorheological elastomer (MRE) material base isolation system. MRE material is a rubber like solid (e.g. silicon or natural rubber) imbedded with magnetic particles. The elasticity ofthe MRE material is able to be manipulated quickly and reversibly, with the application of a magnetic field. The elasticity of the material in a base isolation system is important because it determines how a vibration is transferred to the system. By having a material that is capable of altering its elasticity, a tunable system can be created to actively handle a range of vibrational excitement.

Traditionally base isolation systems have taken the form of columns or stacks separating the isolated object from the excitation surface. Multiple designs of stacks of MRE material and metal insert plates were designed and fabricated. In order to select the best design, these stacks were characterized through controlled testing. In these tests, the stack is secured and a shear stress is applied, while a known compressive load in a uniaxial direction is applied along with a knownmagnetic field. The selected stack design was then tested with a structure. In this test a structure is supported on a shake table by four of the selected stacks, while the shake table under goes uniaxial displacement. From this test, the feasibility ofa MRE material base isolation system can be known.


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55

Ohio Northern UniversityStephanie D. Ash



Low Energy Electron Diffraction Structural Analysis of Au(111)Research Topic:

Senior, PhysicsStatus:

Dr. Mellita CaragiuAdvisor(s):

Biography: I am currently a graduating senior at Ohio Northern University pursing a Bachelor of Science Degree in Physics. Ever since I was a young child, I have always been fascinated by how the world works. From my Dad who homeschooled me, to my physics professor in high school, to my college physics classes and research experiences, I grown to love how physics not only explains these physical realities of our world but also to enables us in solving world problems. I have had great opportunities to conduct research at Ohio Northern University, The University of Toledo, The Ohio State University and West Virginia University. At Ohio Northern, I have been working with Dr. Mellita Caragiu in the field of surface physic. I am in the process of completing my senior capstone with Dr. Caragiu as well as editing a paper onour research that we will submit for publication. Through these research experiences during the summer and school year, Ihave developed endurance and skills needed to conduct good research. Also, these research experiences have been veryinstrumental in narrowing down the area of research I would eventually like to pursue. I have applied to a few Ph.D. programs and am looking forward to eventually conducting research in applied physics or condensed matter physics whereI hope to study magneto-electric properties of materials and look more into new alternative energy sources. I aspire to be aprofessor where I will still be personal involved with students while simultaneously conducting research in areas that advance our scientific understanding and assist in solving key world issues.

Abstract: One of the major outcomes of the study of solid-gas interfaces is the knowledge of the actual position of the atoms in the top-most atomic planes of the solid surface. The location of atoms in surfaces gives information about the surface symmetry, interlayer spacing, and atomic bond lengths. Among the most successful techniques in the study of solidsurfaces kept under ultra high vacuum conditions is low-energy electron diffraction (LEED). The present study investigatesthe surface of clean gold, cut along the crystallographic plane (111). Computational LEED analysis of experimental data provided by collaborators at Penn State University reveals an unreconstructed Au(111) surface with the main feature being the relaxation of the top-most atomic layers, i.e., a variation in the interatomic distance between consecutive layers within the surface, as compared to the bulk interatomic distance. Understanding of the clean Au surface precedes future studies ofthe gold surface on which different species of atoms are adsorbed and expected to induce a reconstruction of the substrate.


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Ohio Northern UniversityDerick S. Endicott


Jim JordanCongressional Representative(s):

Computational Study of Cylinder Heating for Boundary Layer Control

Research Topic:


Dr. Jed E. Marquart, P. E.Advisor(s):

Biography: My name is Derick Endicott, and my hometown is Belle Center, Ohio. I attended Benjamin Logan High Schoolwhere I developed an aptitude for math and physics. After taking advantage of the college level courses in Calculus and Physics that my high school offered through a partnership with the University of Findlay, I chose to pursue engineering as acareer. Currently I am a Senior studying Mechanical Engineering at Ohio Northern University. While at Ohio Northern I havedeveloped a strong interest in the fluid mechanics and thermodynamics areas as well as Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD). Upon graduation in May, 2012, I plan to attend Graduate school to pursue a Master’s Degree in Aerospace or Mechanical Engineering.

Abstract: Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) has become an increasingly important field of study in the past decade, and is becoming more prevalent as computational power is ever improving. The objective of this research is to use CFD to investigate the topic of boundary layer control for flow over a circular cylinder. It is well known that adding or removing energy from the boundary layer as the flow passes over the cylinder surface can control boundary layer separation. Past research in this area has included using blowing/suction and plasma injection as a means to control the energy of the boundary layer. The focus of this research is to study the feasibility of using simple heating locations on the surface of a cylinder as a means to add energy to the boundary layer, thus delaying the separation of the flow. The research will also focus on finding the optimal locations, size, and amount of heat that these locations should have such to produce the greatest effect on boundary layer separation.


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Ohio Northern UniversityMatthew G. Smith



Increasing the Surveillance Area of Micro UAV SystemsResearch Topic:


Jed E. Marquart, Ph.D., P.E.Advisor(s):

Biography: My hometown is Barberton, Ohio, where I graduated from Barberton High School and participated in varsity baseball. I am currently an Ohio Space Grant Consortium Scholar of the 2011-2012 academic year, and I am attending Ohio Northern University where I am studying Mechanical Engineering. In the future I plan on working for the Marathon Petroleum Company as a Project Engineer.

Abstract: The objective is to design and prototype a small remotely controlled docking station that is extremely mobile andversatile. A system will be designed to mate the docking station with a remote control aircraft in order to charge the aircraft.This system should meet the following objectives:

• Keep humans safe from dangerous scenarios.• Increase the mission time of the aerial vehicle by mobilizing the charging capabilities.• Increase mobility so that it can travel successfully over different terrains.• Be universal and adaptable to different applications of docking and surveillance.

This mobile recharging system will be tested for surveillance area and mission time.


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Ohio Northern UniversityNicholas S. Jones



The Effects of Cg Shifting During FlightResearch Topic:



Biography: I am currently a Junior at Ohio Northern University studying Mechanical Engineering. I grew up in Beavercreek, Ohio, and attended Beavercreek High School. My interest in engineering started at a young age when I would take apart my less interesting toys and turn them into my own creations. I always had to create a bigger, better model than what the original concept was. This habit has not changed over the years. When I grew older, my parents and grandparents told me about engineering and how it would be perfect for me. So I started to gain an interest in aerospace because of my grandfather who himself was an aeronautical engineer and professor. He introduced me to many things andI have been hooked ever since.

This past summer I had my first real experience in engineering when I obtained an internship at Wright-Patterson Air ForceBase in the Micro Air Vehicle Department. I learned many important lessons about the workplace and it also led me to an interest in certain micro air vehicle subjects. These new interests are what enticed me to choose a subject to research further during this scholarship program.

Abstract: During this research project, I will be looking at how shifting the center of gravity of an aircraft during flight has aneffect on the overall flight characteristics of the aircraft. This is relevant during a perching maneuver when the aircraft is to decrease elevation and pitch up quickly in order to land like a bird would on a wire or fence. If a weight inside of the aircraftwas to be shifted quickly to the rear during the process of pitching back up, it could greatly increase the effectiveness of theoverall perching maneuver. By moving this weight towards the rear of the aircraft, it in turn shifts the Cg backwards also. This Cg shift can also be coupled with an elevator deflection to achieve greater results. The distance the Cg travels can becomputed easily through simple calculations. The tests that I will be running to look at this effectiveness will be through theuse of an educational size wind tunnel. Forces and pitching moments will be recorded for different variations of the test. Abasic wind tunnel model of an airfoil will be used as the testing device in this experiment. In order to demonstrate the Cg shift, quarters will be attached to the wing at various positions. The tests will be run at a range of speeds and angles of attack. The wind tunnel model also has an adjustable elevator that will be tested in different positions. After all of the data istaken, it will be analyzed and shown in graphs in order to detect the overall effect of Cg shifting of an aircraft during flight.


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Ohio Northern UniversityLogan M. Kingen


Robert E. LattaCongressional Representative(s):

Air Foil Drag InvestigationResearch Topic:



Biography: My hometown is Pandora, Ohio. I graduated from Pandora-Gilboa High School. I am currently an Ohio SpaceGrant Consortium Scholar for the 2011-2012 academic year. I am attending Ohio Northern University (ONU) where I am studying Mechanical Engineering. I have been fascinated by the aerospace industry since I was a child. I was always searching for the latest and greatest planes. This interest continued to grow as my parents let me fly with my uncle periodically. After enrolling at ONU my interest faded as reality set in. ONU does not have an aerospace degree program.Unknown to me, ONU has a strong knowledge base and a group of enthusiastic students running the campus’ AIAA organization. I joined this group and have since been elected Vice-President despite spending the 2011-2012 academic year on a co-op assignment in Marysville with Honda R&D Americas Inc.

Abstract: When reading about aviation as a child I was always fascinated about how these wings were able to lift these giant plains. During my education I learned more about physics and lift and drag. Participating in AIAA piqued my curiosity.For my research I want to learn more about drag effects on airfoils.

When considering airfoils for a wing, there are many variables to consider. One of the most important variables is lift. Aircraft are constantly fighting to optimize lift and minimize weight. On the Ohio Northern SAE Aero design RC aircraft, oneweight savings solution was to run lightening holes through the wing. The hole in the wing left a slight depression in the wing. I plan to research lift reduction do to these depressions on isolated airfoils. My research is to study the lift reductionon an airfoil resembling the one described and comparing it to a solid airfoil.


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60

Ohio UniversityJoseph M. DiBenedetto



Commercial UAV Autopilot Testing and Test Bed DevelopmentResearch Topic:


Dr. Michael BraaschAdvisor(s):

Biography: I am a Senior Ohio Space Grant recipient. I call Albany, Ohio, my hometown, where I graduated from Alexander High School. I am attending Ohio University to study Electrical Engineering with a minor in Math. I became interested in engineering because of my father, who is also in the Electrical Engineering field. I obtained the rank of Eagle Scout in February, 2008, after 11 years in Scouts. I am interested in GPS technologies and commercial applications of accurate GPS. I currently work as a Student Research Intern at Ohio University Avionics Engineering Center doing researchwith small scale UAS. After obtaining my Bachelor’s Degree I plan on finding a job in my field to start my career.

Abstract: There are many commercial uses for small scale Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) in domestic airspace. BeforeUASs can be permitted into airspace over populated areas they must be proven safe, reliable and robust. There are many concerns to be addressed with UASs in commercial airspace. They need to be able to accurately follow a flight path, as wellas sense and avoid obstacles that they might encounter. They need to be able to do these tasks reliably and efficiently. There are several commercial-off-the-shelf autopilots available that have a wide variety of capabilities. With an airframe capable of providing an appropriate test platform, analysis of a high-end commercial-off-the-shelf autopilot can be pursued.The functionality and reliability of the unit will be tested as well as the failsafe sensors built into the system.


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61

The University of AkronPierre A. Hall



Battery TechnologyResearch Topic:


Dr. Tom HartleyAdvisor(s):

Biography: I am a Senior Ohio Space Grant Scholarship recipient for the 2011- 2012 school year. My hometown is Cleveland, Ohio, where I graduated from John Hay High School. I am currently attending The University of Akron majoring in Electrical Engineering. My research on electric vehicles has been a passion of mine for a while. When I was younger myFather and I would always work on cars together, as I got older I began to get interested in technology. This type of research is a hybrid of both my passions into one great opportunity. Working with Dr. Hartley I have expanded my knowledge about electric vehicles and the importance of batteries and the evolution of battery technologies. Along with my research I have co-oped with a local electric car company where I am receiving great hands on experience with electric vehicles as well as the importance of batteries and properly managing them. I have also worked at Honda R&D Americas where I worked more on the design side of vehicles. I feel that this research along with my experiences will assist me in thedevelopment of new electric vehicles or more applicable solutions for alternative energy transportation.

Abstract: The Tropica roadster is an all-electric vehicle manufactured in the 90s. The Tropica used in this research was the official pace car in the Cleveland Grand Prix. After that the vehicle was bought by First Energy Corp., later it was donated to The University of Akron. From sitting the lead acid batteries expanded and the electrolytes inside dried out. Thegoal of this research was to test new lithium battery chemistries by placing them in an electric vehicle and monitor the performance of the batteries. First the old lead acid batteries were removed from the Tropica. Then a second “test” set of lead acid batteries were connected to power the vehicle. With the Tropica powered we were able to see what electrical components were damaged and which worked properly. After running some initial observation test everything seemed to bein complete working order, and then the battery charger was tested. The battery charger is the only component on the Tropica that is not working. The next step in the process is to install the new batteries in parallel strings then conduct tests with the Tropica. However, at this time the new batteries have not been installed into the Tropica and different battery placement and connection options are being discussed.


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62

The University of AkronCourtney A. Gras


Steven C. LaTouretteCongressional Representative(s):

Battery Management for a Lunar RoverResearch Topic:


Dr. Tom T. HartleyAdvisor(s):

Biography: Since my freshmen year in college, I have held two primary interests: applying classwork to extracurricular projects, and space. Beginning my freshmen year in college, I took leadership roles in extracurricular robotics and researchteams on-campus. I lead a team of freshmen to a 1st place tie in the Space Elevator Robotics Competition at the Earth andSpace Conference, and also lead a team conducting battery management research for the Automotive X Prize Competition.I then began to apply the knowledge I gained through this research to space applications, at which time I wrote winning papers for the NASA Moon Work Competition for 2 consecutive years. The success of my papers enabled me to participatein an internship at NASA Johnson Space Center (JSC) and NASA’s Desert-Research and Technology Studies (D-RATS) inArizona. I continued for the next 2 years to lead a team of students to participate in the NASA Lunabotics Mining Competition, where the team placed 3rd out of 36 competing teams this past year. These opportunities have enabled me topresent my work at a number of conferences, including the University Clean Energy Alliance of Ohio Conference, the OhioFuel Cell Symposium and the International Energy Conversion Engineering.

I have been employed by Lockheed Martin, and currently work as a co-op at NASA Glenn Research Center in the Power Systems Engineering Division. My future plans include graduating with my B.S. in Electrical Engineering and Minor in Business in May, 2013, after completing a Senior Design Project in radio frequency energy harvesting for wireless sensors,which is my primary area of interest. I look forward to utilizing the skills I’ve gained to both further technology development for space applications, and to inspire young students to do the same.

Abstract: There is no question that energy storage is an important aspect in the design of a lunar rover. Without energy, nomobility would be possible, and no life support systems could function. It is therefore important to consider the design of a system capable of storing energy and supplying power to a lunar rover. One often considers a system containing a solar array coupled with an energy storage system such as batteries. When large groups of series-connected batteries charge and discharge, they ideally do so as one unit. However, as cells age, it is possible for one cell to become more charged or discharged than the rest of the pack, essentially becoming a load on the rest of the cells. This can lead to overcharging or over-discharging, which can cause permanent damage to the cells and shorten the useful life of the pack.This problem mostfrequently occurs due to differences in cell construction, temperatures, capacity, internal resistance, and aging. When considering the harsh environment of the moon, in addition to the integral role energy storage plays in a rover; safety and reliability are issues not to be overlooked. It is therefore, the goal of this project to propose a solution to the management ofan energy storage system in a lunar rover.

Publications:1. Conference Paper, “An Extraterrestrial robotic Mining System” by Courtney Gras, published in the 2011

Robogames Symposium Proceedings.2. Case Study, “Engineering Skills for Career Success” by Charles Alexander, Jim Wtson and Courtney Gras,

McGraw Hill publication, January, 2013.

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63

The University of AkronUsaaman Taugir



Multi-Touch Traffic AppResearch Topic:

Junior, Civil EngineeringStatus:

Dr. Ping YiAdvisor(s):

Biography: I am a Junior Ohio Space Grant Scholarship recipient for the 2011-2012 school year. My hometown is Akron,Ohio. I graduated from Firestone High School. I am currently enrolled at The University of Akron, and my major is Civil Engineering. My interest in civil engineering began when I was in middle school and has carried up to this point now whereI want to make it a career. Being able to do research in my field is an exciting opportunity. I am currently researching on how to improve transportation data collection systems. Research with transportation technology is giving me a hands on experience unlike anything else. I am able learn about how to improve current technology for civil engineers so they may beable work more efficiently. Some of the items that my research involves are programing devices, developing apps, and transportation data collection systems. My research is helping me continue to reach my goal of becoming a civil engineer. Iwill be able to use this research and the problem solving skills learned later down the road in my career.

Abstract: Over time civil engineers have used many different devices to collect transportation data, from pencil & paper todata collection devices to computers. These tasks are error prone, because of the multi-tasking that occurs. If only there was a way to develop a piece of equipment that could make it more efficient for civil engineers to gather on site traffic data.

The solution to this problem would be a touch screen phone that could collect data by understanding mimics of the operator’s fingers. The engineer could indicate how they see traffic flow and just move their fingers and the data would be recorded.

The processes of this research project were as follows. Task one was choosing a program, and app system. Java programand Android apps were chosen for conducting the research. Next task was development of the program for the device. For the third task we tested the newly made program. After testing, the development of the data collection system for a traffic network started. In the final phase of the research the program was tested once again.

After the completion of the experiment results were obtained successfully. Our understanding turned out to be true. When we used the phone and app as a collection method, the results validated that our method reduced errors, and time taken tocomplete tasks. The project was a success but much more can be done to improve the current system, and will be the focusfor continuing research.


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64

The University of ToledoAlena M. Barga



Thermoelectric Solution for Temporomandibular Joint PainResearch Topic:

Senior, BioengineeringStatus:

Dr. Ronald FournierAdvisor(s):

Biography: I am a Senior Ohio Space Grant Scholarship recipient for the 2011-2012 school year. I am currently completing my Bachelor of Science Degree in Bioengineering at The University of Toledo and will be graduating in May. I graduated from Versailles High School as class Valedictorian. Math and science were always areas that fascinated me andareas in which I excelled. However, I never knew how I would integrate them into my future career until my senior year of high school. A university representative guest spoke with my calculus class about engineering disciplines. It was at that moment that I realized I could combine math and science with my love of medicine and pursue a degree in bioengineering.

Throughout my college career, I have been afforded many opportunities to expand my knowledge base and gain critical jobexperience through the co-op program. I interned at Alphatec Spine in Carlsbad, California and at Zimmer in Warsaw, Indiana. Because of the many differences between these two companies, I was challenged in many different arenas of the industry. These challenges molded me into an engineer that will be more prepared for life after college. I plan to secure a position at a medical device company following graduation, and I am interested in furthering my education in the few years following my graduation.

Abstract: Many adults suffer from persistent jaw pain and clicking centered at the temporomandibular joint. This conditionis often given the umbrella term: temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder or syndrome. Treatment options consist of anti-inflammatory drugs, jaw exercises, heat and cold therapy, and, as a last resort, surgery. Our proposed solution for this widespread issue is to design a headpiece that will allow the user to apply heat and cold therapy sequentially without bothering with two devices.

The design will incorporate a thermoelectric module and a thermally conductive elastomer. The modules will be encased inthe elastomer, and, because of its conductivity properties, the heat will be distributed evenly throughout the material. In addition to conducting the heat across the area of interest, the elastomer will also act as a barrier between the user and thetemperature source.

The user will be able to adjust the temperature to his or her preferred level through the use of a temperature control unit. The control unit will provide the variability in temperature intensity. The control unit will also have a switch that will allow theuser to choose heat or cold therapy. This will be accomplished by inverting the current running through the thermoelectric units. A negative feedback loops will be incorporated to control the unit’s functions.

This project will incorporate material research, heat transfer calculations, circuit construction, and headpiece design. The members of the design team will be working together over the next four months to bring this design to fruition. If the devicemeets all expectations, our final design could prove to be an effective treatment to this widespread issue.


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65

The University of ToledoJoseph P. Montion


Robert E. LattaCongressional Representative(s):

Synthesis of Polymeric Ionic Liquid ParticlesResearch Topic:

Junior, Chemical EngineeringStatus:

Dr. Maria ColemanAdvisor(s):

Biography: My name is Joseph Montion, and I am a Junior at The University of Toledo majoring in Chemical Engineering.I am from the Toledo area, come from a family of eight children, and was home schooled up until my junior high school. Then for my junior year I went to public school. My senior year I took advantage of the Post Secondary Enrollment programoffered by the state and finished high school at The University of Toledo. Towards the end of the Spring Semester of 2011, Igot the offer to work in a research lab under Dr. Maria Coleman, and it is through working with her that I fulfilled the requirements for the OSGC scholarship. Other than school I have made Eagle Scout with the Boy Scouts of America and greatly enjoy the outdoors, whether it is camping, backpacking, or bike riding.

Abstract: There are two stages to this project. The first stage is to make polymeric ionic liquid particles (PILs), and to come up with a method to create the PILs with consistency between batches. The second stage of this project is to grow zero valance iron nano-particles inside of the PILs. The practical purpose of this project is use these to replace pure zero valance iron that is currently used for pollution control. Zero valent iron is very reactive with organic compounds and is normally injected into the water. The advantages of using iron grown in PIL particles is that it keeps the iron from conglomerating which reduces activity. The PIL might act as a catalyst for the reaction, and ionic liquid can be hydrophobic,which will help the particle disperse in the organic phase and react to from less harmless compounds. At this stage PIL have been successfully synthesized, but due to strong hydrophilic nature of the ionic liquid, it has taken a while to get good reproducibility.


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66

University of CincinnatiKrista M. Kirievich



Turbomachinery CFD Methods for Compressor Off-Design Modeling

Research Topic:

Senior, Aerospace EngineeringStatus:

Dr. Paul OrkwisAdvisor(s):

Biography: I am currently a fifth year undergraduate Aerospace Engineering ACCEND student at the University of Cincinnati (UC). As an ACCEND student, I will earn both my Bachelor’s and Master’s Degrees in Aerospace Engineering inabout 5.5 years. During five of my undergraduate co-op quarters, I worked at General Electric Aviation in Evendale, Ohio, invarious roles such as engine life management, airfoils sourcing, powerplant engineering, CFM56 engine assembly, and CF6engine product support engineering. Also, I started participating in research during the summer after my freshmen year as apart of UC’s Women in Science and Engineering (WISE) program researching supersonic inlet flow control. Then during myfourth year, I participated in wind turbine computational fluid dynamics (CFD) studies. My co-op rotations at GE Aviation combined with my undergraduate coursework spurred my interest in fluids and propulsion. Thus, my research focus for myMasters’ is aircraft propulsion and turbomachinery.

Abstract: This research project’s main objective is to develop efficient design methods in order to include unsteady flow effects into turbomachinery design. Blade tip vortices and upstream wakes in turbomachinery engines have a significant role in the near stall behavior of compressors. This role of unsteady flow effects were demonstrated by the previous work performed by the University of Cincinnati (UC) Compressor Off-Design Modeling program. Because of the importance of unsteady effects in compressor near stall conditions, there is a need to model unsteadiness in compressor computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulations. However, the CFD simulations of unsteadiness in turbomachinery are computationally very expensive. Thus, a more efficient method to model unsteady behavior in turbomachinery is desired.

In an effort to establish an efficient method to include unsteadiness in turbomachinery design, both low speed and transoniccompressor rotors will be investigated.This research is performed at UC’s Gas Turbine Simulation Laboratory (GTSL) Center Hill facility and at GE Aviation (GEA) under the guidance of Dr. Paul Orkwis (UC professor). The computation tools for this research include: GEA’s in-house CFD solver and other proprietary GEA codes.

Baseline steady and unsteady calculations for the GE Low Speed Research Compressor (LSRC) have been conducted in order to evaluate methodologies. Mixed multi-stage CFD at engine design point is currently being tested and evaluated. Future work will begin to conduct research using transonic compressor sliding meshes and mixed multi-stage unsteady analyses at multiple operating conditions for the LSRC. The mixed multi-stage approach will use steady-state flow analysis for stator stages and unsteady flow analysis for rotor stages in the compressor. This methodology will be validated for both low speed and transonic environments. These CFD results will be compared with experimental data and traditional steady/unsteady CFD methodologies.


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67

University of CincinnatiAmanda G. McGee


James B. RenacciCongressional Representative(s):

Risk Analysis Using Fuzzy LogicResearch Topic:

Junior, Aerospace EngineeringStatus:


Biography: My name is Amanda McGee and I am a Junior Ohio Space Grant Scholarship recipient. I currently attend theUniversity of Cincinnati where I am working towards my undergraduate degree in Aerospace Engineering along with my master’s of business administration’s degree. I excelled in math and physics in high school and physics since been my favorite subject therefore I knew I would excel in engineering. While at the University of Cincinnati, through the cooperativeeducation program, I have had the opportunity to work at BGI, LLC, a defense contractor, where I worked on flight simulatorcomputer programs, and I had the opportunity to work at GE Aviation, where I worked as an assembly engineer in the development and test organizations. While at GE I was able to work hands on with full engines as well as engine components and see the components in test situations. Outside of school I am active in the community and I enjoy volunteering with the Girl Scouts. After graduation I would like to pursue a career in which I can make a positive influence on the world through improving the safety quality in the aeronautic and aerospace industries.

Abstract: Decision making happens every day, both in the scientific community as well as in every other part of the world.The binary logic that a statement is either completely true or completely false is favored, especially in the technical world. This logic dates all the way back to before Aristotle, but it has its flaws. For example, consider eating an apple, before a bite is taken the apple is whole, but with each bite the apple changes. Binary logic does not successfully define at what point in eating, the apple changes from being an apple to not being an apple. There is an overlap between the apple beinga true, whole apple, and the apple being completely eaten therefore not an apple. Fuzzy logic accounts for this overlap. Fuzzy logic states that commonly a statement is not completely true or completely false, but actually somewhere between true and false. I plan to research the use of fuzzy logic in regards to a risk analysis situation.


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68

University of CincinnatiNathan A. Wukie


Marcy KapturCongressional Representative(s):

Bleed Hole Simulations for Mixed Compression InletsResearch Topic:

Senior, Aerospace EngineeringStatus:

Dr. Paul OrkwisAdvisor(s):

Biography: I am currently a Senior in Aerospace Engineering at the University of Cincinnati. I am originally from Fremont,Ohio, where I graduated from Fremont Ross High School. Growing up, I was always curious about how things worked witha particular interest in aviation. In addition, I also had strong interests in math and science so when I chose to pursue Engineering, the aerospace field was a natural draw for me.

Since the beginning of my education at the University of Cincinnati, I have completed six internships; four with CornerstoneResearch Group in Dayton, Ohio, and two with NUMECA Ingenieurbuero in Nuremberg, Germany. I have also contributed to university research efforts at the Gas Turbine Simulation Laboratory at the University of Cincinnati. At Cornerstone Research Group, I worked as a Research Associate on the Aerosystems Team where I worked directly with many differentareas of research including Micro Air Vehicle(MAV) design, high-efficiency vaneaxial fan design, deployable lunar habitat development, and composite systems. I was also involved in writing research proposals where I played a key role in winning a combined $1.5M in research funding. At NUMECA, I performed benchmarking tests for their FINE/Turbo softwareand compared its performance against the opensource OpenFOAM software for turbomachinery simulations. At the Gas Turbine Simulation Laboratory, I currently work with Dr. Paul Orkwis and Dr. Mark Turner as a Student Researcher where Iperform 3D Computational Fluid Dynamics(CFD) simulations using the OVERFLOW code for bleed hole simulations for supersonic inlets. I am involved in all levels of the simulation process from designing the simulation to interpreting the results. I will be graduating with my Bachelor’s Degree in June of 2012, and am considering pursuing a Master’s Degree.

Abstract: The purpose of this research is to simulate bleed holes in mixed-compression inlets to support the development of the next generation of supersonic flight vehicles. In supersonic aircraft the air that enters an engine must be handled properly so that when it reaches the actual compressor stage of the engine the air is at appropriate conditions. In order to achieve that, the inlet leading up to the engine must be designed correctly. There is a certain style of inlets called mixed-compression inlets that use a series of reflected shockwaves to provide compression and also slow the air to subsonic speeds by the time it reaches the compressor stage. This process produces several problems for the incoming flow, one ofwhich occurs where a shockwave interacts with the boundary layer of the inlet flow as it is reflected along the inlet. Normallythis interaction results in a separation bubble at that location, which if handled improperly, could choke the inlet flow and possibly unstart the engine. To counteract that phenomenon, bleed holes are used in order to suck out the separated flow.My work uses 3D computational fluid dynamics simulations of the bleed holes in order to investigate their effect on the boundary layer of the inlet. I am developing the simulation to run as efficiently as possible while maintaining the level of fidelity that is required for a full inlet simulation. Continuing work will be to include bleed in a full mixed-compression inlet simulation. My simulation work is in support of a project titled Shockwave/Boundary-Layer Interactions that is being conducted alongside experimental work by the Air Force Research Laboratory at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base with thepurpose of designing a more efficient and functional mixed compression inlet.

Publications:1. Wukie, N. A., Orkwis, P. D., Turner, M. G., Duncan, S., “Comparison of Simulations and Models for Aspiration in a

Supersonic Flow using OVERFLOW,” AIAA-2012-0483.

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69

University of CincinnatiTyler J. Vick



Flapping Flight Investigation and MAV Controller DesignResearch Topic:



Biography: I am currently a Junior Aerospace Engineering student at the University of Cincinnati (UC). I graduated from Avon High School in 2008 and chose to attend UC, in part because of its cooperative education program. My interest in Aerospace Engineering stems from an interest in math and science, specifically physics, biology, astronomy, and technology. The combination of such subjects was enticing and has allowed me to find great enjoyment in this field to date.

During my time as a student I have gained research experience in several areas. I have assisted with construction and disassembly of a small-scale pulse detonation engine, and observed and helped execute several test-firings of various PDEconfigurations. In the area of jet noise reduction, I helped with the preparation and execution of flow-field measurement tests on various nozzle configurations, and created scripts to process and analyze particle image velocimetry data. I am now doing research in the area of Micro Air Vehicles under my current advisor.

I have had three co-op rotations at the Air Force Laboratories at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base. My first rotation was withthe Flight Test and Evaluation branch (RBCT), during which I reviewed flight test plans to ensure safe and effective testing.My past two co-ops have been with the Control Design and Analysis branch (RBCA) where I developed a six-DOF nonlinearmodel for hypersonic vehicles, and created a software package capable of generating the geometry of hypersonic vehicles for use with 3D vehicle analysis tools. I intend to continue my work in the area of hypersonic vehicles while I pursue a Master of Science degree in the area of Aerospace Engineering.

Abstract: Micro-Air-Vehicles (MAVs) are capable of being used for myriad applications due to their small size and maneuverability; they are therefore of particular interest to the scientific and military community. One major challenge in creating miniature vehicles designed for prolonged intelligence-surveillance-reconnaissance missions is having enough power to remain operational for the desired mission length. It is therefore vital that flapping vehicles fly in the most efficientmanner possible. MAV designers have drawn much inspiration from nature, particularly for body mechanics and structures.It is only logical that scientists and designers should strive for the efficiency of nature, and that flapping MAVs should fly at speeds and flap at frequencies similar to those of actual birds in power-efficient flight.

The first aim of this project is determine whether theoretical calculations for optimal flight speed of a flapping flyer correspond to the flight conditions found through observations of birds in nature. It has been shown that wing kinematics of flapping flyers can by represented by the dimensionless Strouhal number, and that the Strouhal number for nearly all flapping flyers falls within a narrow range. Using data from literature and a theoretical model for calculating optimal flight speed, I investigate whether theoretical Strouhal numbers lie in this expected range.

A second aim of this project is to apply a PID controller to a model of a flapping micro air vehicle. The approach to designingthe controller, the figures of merit, the model’s constraints, and the final results of the attempt will be presented.


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70

University of CincinnatiAlex R. Walker



Fuzzy Control of Multiple Degree of Freedom SystemsResearch Topic:



Biography: I was born and raised in Sandusky, Ohio, where I attended Perkins Local Schools and graduated from PerkinsHigh School. In school I excelled in science and math which naturally attracted me to pursue a degree in Engineering. However, it was the extremely close proximity of my childhood home to NASA Plum Brook Station that instilled in me a strong interest in the nation’s space program and space flight in general, leading me to pursue a career in Aerospace Engineering. The decision to attend the University of Cincinnati (UC) to pursue my degree was easy, because UC offers a great Aerospace Engineering Program, has an excellent co-op program, and is my brother's’ alma mater.

In my time at UC, I have completed four co-op rotations with Sierra Lobo, Inc. in Milan, Ohio. On co-op, I have gained a wide variety of experience in the preliminary design and practical implementation of piping and pressure vessel systems forcryogenic and non-cryogenic fluids. Additionally, I have supported research and development efforts to advance the technology readiness level of Sierra Lobo’s Reduced Gravity CryoTracker®. Currently, I plan to return to Sierra Lobo for myfinal co-op rotation in the Summer of 2012, and graduate with my Bachelor’s Degree in December, 2012. After graduation, Iwill pursue my Master’s Degree in Aerospace Engineering with a focus in Dynamics and Controls at the University of Cincinnati.

Abstract: Fuzzy Logic is a mathematical tool that has proven useful in controls applications, including controllers for aircraft, trains, and even commercial appliances. It has been mathematically proven that Fuzzy Controllers are capable of controlling systems of arbitrary complexity to any desired degree of accuracy. The goal of this research is to explore this claim by developing Fuzzy Controllers for two two-degree-of-freedom systems such that the Fuzzy Controllers are more robust than at least one type of non-Fuzzy controller. The first system is a Self-Erecting, Single Inverted Pendulum which consists of an unpowered, downward-resting, free-swinging pendulum mounted on a powered cart that can only move alonga straight track. The aim of the Self-Erecting, Single Inverted Pendulum, a common benchmark test for new controller technology, is to excite the pendulum from the downward resting position to the inverted, unstable equilibrium position and,once inverted, maintain it in the inverted position while maintaining the cart in its starting position. The second system is a Helicopter which is constrained such that it can only pitch and yaw; the pitch degree-of-freedom is constrained to less than90 degrees about the level-flight configuration whereas the yaw degree-of-freedom is not limited. The aim here is to developa controller that minimizes the undesired effects of coupling between pitch and yaw and to at least have the helicopter perform a pitch-up-to-level maneuver followed by a 180 degree yaw maneuver.


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71

University of DaytonRobert W. Davidoff



Wind Tunnel Blockage Correction for Flapping Wing ModelsResearch Topic:

Senior, Mechanical/Aerospace EngineeringStatus:

Dr. Aaron AltmanAdvisor(s):

Biography: Born a Hoosier, I moved from Indiana to Ohio in 2009 to attend the University of Dayton. I am pursuing a B.S. in Mechanical Engineering with a concentration in Aerospace. During my time as a student, I’ve enjoyed participating in theschool’s AIAA Design, Build, Fly competition team for the past three seasons. I have also served as vice president of the student AIAA section for the past two years, and have been associated with the University of Dayton Advanced Rocketry Team. In addition to classes and extracurricular organizations, I interned in Test Engineering at Ferno-Washington in Wilmington, Ohio, and have just started a rotation in Quality at GE Aviation’s Engine Services Distribution Center at the Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International Airport.

Abstract: In aerodynamics, wind tunnel testing provides a critical check stage for designs headed to the real world, or an invaluable source of small-scale data that can be used to refine theoretical models. However, this testing has its own requirements. Whereas the real situations being modeled concern external flows around an air vehicle, wind tunnel flows are also internal flow inside the tunnel boundaries and thus are affected by the additional factors of blockage effects and wall interference effects. In order to produce wind tunnel data that has value in design testing or is a useful base for theory, these effects must be understood and compensated for. Such blockage corrections have a long history for stationary models, such as wing test sections or models of aircraft or aircraft components, refined over more than a century of aerodynamic wind tunnel testing. However, flapping-wings, with their associated plunge, pitch, and even more complex motions, severely test the bounds of current understanding of blockage effects and wall effects on moving models. Much ofcurrent testing in this field is applying corrections based on work done originally in 1979, which in turn is based on earlier work, none of which was specifically designed to deal with flapping-wing motions. Not surprisingly, there are indications thatthese corrections may not be optimal for the motions involved in flapping-wing problems.

The intention of my research is to produce a better understanding of blockage effects and wall effects on flapping-wing flows. This understanding is critical to allowing research on flapping wings to be conducted with in such a way as to better avoid or correct for the effects due to blockage of the tunnel volume or the effects of the tunnel walls. To do so, the performance of 6-inch and 3-inch wing segments in similar flows are being examined in pure-pitch, pure plunge, and combined motion cases of varying characteristics, both centered in the tunnel and off-center in the tunnel to examine the effects of the tunnel walls on the flow. By comparing force and moment coefficients in the two sets of scenarios, new bounds of where blockage and tunnel wall effects become significant could be derived for flapping wings.


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University of DaytonHadil R. Issa



Interaction Between Osteoblast Cells and Fuzzy Fibers for PossibleMedical Use

Research Topic:


Dr. Khalid LafdiAdvisor(s):

Biography: I am currently a University of Dayton student pursuing a Chemical Engineering Degree. After graduating witha Bachelor’s Degree, I plan on pursuing a Master’s Degree in Material Engineering. Upon graduating I plan to work in a pharmaceutical company. After pursuing my Doctoral Degree, I plan on opening an herbal pharmaceutical company and perhaps implement the use of nanoparticles into the delivery of the medicine. I am native to Palestine and have lived in theUnited States with my family for approximately ten years. Throughout my college years, as part of the Minority EngineeringProgram (MEP) and the Minority Leadership Program (MLP), I have worked at the Wright-Patterson Air Force Base in both the Materials and Human Effectiveness directorates researching composite properties and exploring the toxicology of carbon foam on neuroblastoma cells.

Outside of academics, I have been involved in community service and religious organizations on campus taking leadershippositions. The community service organization I am a part of is Students in A New Direction (SAND), an organization supporting youth and implementing activities to inform high school students about what it takes to go to college. Moreover, Ihave been part of the Muslim Student Association (MSA) and served as the president and the women representative serving the needs of the new Muslim students arriving on campus and raising awareness on campus through collaborativeefforts.

Through the academic and leadership experiences, I am confident I will be able to achieve my dreams and continue to research the fields of science and engineering to make a difference.

Abstract: Research in the nanotechnology field is crucial to explore and understand as the prevalence and uses of nanotechnology are expanding in everyday life. Applications of nanomaterials are already common in the areas of electronics, cosmetics, drug delivery and pharmaceuticals. Due to their prevalent functions, their health effects are important to understand in order to continue expanding on their uses. Health effects associated with nanomaterials vary with the variety of chemical natures they can display and ways they can be functionalized. Nanomaterials are manufacturedin many different ways and forms; among those forms, carbon nanotubes are one of the most popular in current fields of research. In order for the carbon naotubes to be used safely and effectively, their toxicologies or health effects must be assessed. One of the ways to assess their toxicologies is by studying their interactions with the variety of cell lines from origin tissues such as the bone marrow, ovarian and lung tissues.

For this particular research, the viability of the osteoblast cells from the bone tissues will be assessed after introducing fuzzyfibers in their living environment. The fuzzy fibers contain carbon nanotubes grown on glass and carbon fibers. In order to have a base line reading, the biocompatibility of the glass and carbon fibers with respect to the osteoblast cells will be evaluated using the WST-1 solution. After establishing a summary of data at different time points, the cell’s viability using the glass and carbon fibers will be compared against that of the fuzzy fibers. Establishing data for the toxicology of fuzzy fibers will then allow for creating a kinetic predictive module of the cell’s reaction to the fuzzy fibers. This predicative model can be used in determining the interaction of osteoblast cells with fuzzy fibers in a medical setting, as some potential uses of fuzzy fibers may be in surgical tools or implant materials such as bone scaffolds.


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University of DaytonEvan R. Kemp



Doping of Phthalocyanines for Use as Low Temperature Thermoelectric Materials

Research Topic:


Dr. Douglas S. DudisAdvisor(s):

Biography: I am currently a Senior majoring in Chemical Engineering at the University of Dayton (UD). I grew up in Troy, Ohio, and graduated from Troy High School. Even throughout high school I had an interest in and technical aptitude for science and math, with a dedicated passion in the area of chemistry. My interest in engineering can be attributed to my Father, an Aerospace and Mechanical Engineer. Through his encouragement I assessed my strengths and interests, whichaided in the definition of my academic path. A path driven by a passion for chemistry, engineering, processing and researchhas revolved and evolved through my academic commitment to the field of Chemical Engineering. This academic, growth and personal evolution through my educational and professional pursuits can be contributed to my university selection. I amthankful for and committed to my soon-to-be-alma mater, the University of Dayton.

During my time at the University of Dayton, I have taken part in two differing research opportunities. The first in a biomaterials lab for UDRI the summer following my senior year in high school, and the second opportunity, my current role at the Thermal Sciences and Materials Branch of the Materials and Manufacturing Directorate at Wright-Patterson Air ForceBase (WPAFB). I have worked at WPAFB for the past two and a half years. During this time I have honed my skills in Phthalocyanine, organic synthesis and thermal properties testing methods. I have gained insight, exposure and hand-on experience in the area of programming (LabView), enabling me to not only set-up testing, but drive efficiency and accuracy in data output through programming and instrumentation communication methods. The experience, growth, learning and professional affiliation I have gained are priceless, and I am truly thankful.

My expected graduation date with a Bachelor’s of Chemical Engineering at the University of Dayton is May 2012, where I then plan to transfer into Material Engineering for a Master’s Degree at UD.

Abstract: Thermoelectric materials have found their way into space applications and most notably with radioisotope thermoelectric generators (RTG) providing for upwards of 480W of power. RTGs have both proven to be reliable power sources and long-lasting with current operation times of 40 years. The reliability of RTGs is analogous to thermoelectric materials in general where the lack of moving parts reduces the need for maintenance and failure opportunity. Iodine DopedPhthalocyanines are promising for low temperature thermoelectric materials due to its high electrical conductivity of ~500 Ω-1 cm-1 at room temperature, which varies up to 2 times that value as it reaches a weak maximum ~30K. This material has the potential to be used for sensor cooling on military and scientific space missions which require cryogenic cooling for IR, γ-ray, and x-ray sensors. The purpose of this project is to increase the electrical conductivity of phthalocyanine through a combination of doping the material and purification, while attempting to minimize the effects on the Seebeck coefficient andthermal conductivity.


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Evan R. Kemp (Continued) Abstract: (Continued) The thermoelectric potential of un-doped copper phthalocyanine is hindered greatly due to its low electrical conductivity of ~10-9 Ω-1 cm-1 at room temperature. Iodine doping alone has proven to increase the electrical conductivity of phthalocyanine on the order of 10 to 11 orders of magnitude. With the doping, a decrease in the overall thermal conductivity has been observed. Further analysis into the doping of the various metal phthalocyanines will be explored along with the amount of iodine doping which occurs. Publications: 1. Dudis, D. S., Ferguson, J. B., Check, Schmidt, J. E., E., Shumaker, J. A., Chen, C., Seibel, H. A., Kemp, E. R.

“Multidimensional Nanoscopic Approaches to New Thermoelectric Materials.” Invited paper at the 2010 SPIE Defense, Security and Sensing Conference, Orlando, Florida, April 6-8, 2010.

75

University of DaytonWinston L. Black, II



Title of Research: Heat Transfer and Drag Reduction for Water/Ethoquad/Sodium Salicylate in a Mock Aviation Coolant Loop

Research Topic:


Dr. John G. WeberAdvisor(s):

Biography: Winston L. Black, II, is 21 years old and hails from Kirkwood, Missouri, a suburb of St. Louis. Winston is the middle child of Leopold and Donna Black’s three children. He attended Kirkwood High School before coming to the University of Dayton (UD). At UD, Winston is the president of the universities chapter of the National Society of Black Engineers. He also has worked for the Dean’s Office in the School of Engineering and for the Department of Housing and Residence Life on campus. Once he obtains his Chemical Engineering Degree, Winston hopes to pursue a Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering or a related field of engineering or science.

Abstract: Surfactant drag reducing agents have the capacity to benefit the existing coolant fluids by decreasing drag whilemaintaining heat capacity and thermal conductivity, unlike their polymeric counter parts. This versatility is due to the “self healing” property of the cylindrical micelle structures that these surfactants can form in solution. This property allows for theconstructs to be dissipated in areas of high turbulence such as heat exchanges and reform in areas where drag reduction isnecessary. However, optimal concentration of surfactant and counter ions and cost benefit analysis must be determined through further experimentation.


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University of DaytonLeslie A. Sollmann



Bleed Hole Location, Sizing, and Configuration for Use in Hypersonic Inlets

Research Topic:


Dr. Aaron Altman, University of Dayton; Dr. Lance Jacobsen (GoHypersonic Inc.)Advisor(s):

Biography: I am a 2011-2012 Junior recipient of the Ohio Space Grant Consortium (OSGC) scholarship. I am from Beavercreek, Ohio, and graduated with an honors diploma from Beavercreek High School in 2008. While in high school, I was selected for the highly competitive Wright Scholar program, an academic-based student employment program, sponsored by The Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL) and partnering with the University of Dayton (UD). My experiencein the Wright Scholar Program contributed to my decision to pursue a degree and career in engineering. I decided to put my mathematical and science skills and love of aviation to use by pursuing a Bachelor’s Degree at UD in Mechanical Engineering with a concentration in Aerospace Engineering.

At UD, I have been able to see my engineering knowledge put to use in practical applications through senior design projectsand our school’s Aero Design Team. While at UD, I participated in the co-operative education program and have been working with the Propulsion Directorate of AFRL. My research for the Ohio Space Grant Consortium Scholarship was strongly influenced by my work with AFRL. I look forward to graduating in December, 2012, and pursuing a career in the aerospace industry while continuing my education.

Abstract: Flight in the hypersonic regime, approximately five times the speed of sound, has been of interest to militaries and commercial aviation enthusiasts for many years. Hypersonic airbreathing vehicles are desired for efficient long range cruise missiles, global reconnaissance, and access to space as they promise higher efficiency than current technology. They also enable reusability with the goal of obtaining cheaper methods of defense and transportation. Although there havebeen a few recent successes with government funded hypersonic programs, many technology gaps still exist and must be investigated before further progress can be accomplished for hypersonic vehicles. One of the limiting factors in the robustness of a hypersonic airbreathing engine involves starting inlets. In order to achieve sufficient combustion during flight, a vehicle must have a started inlet, an inlet in which there is no strong bow shock, no flow separation, and flow is notsignificantly disrupted by turbulent forces. There have been many techniques implemented to start an inlet such as retractable doors, variable inlet geometries, and mass extraction through perforations. Although the aforementioned techniques are all viable solutions, permanent perforations for mass extraction are arguably most beneficial, assuming sufficient mass capture remains, due to ease in manufacturing and weight reduction of the overall inlet. This paper analyzes the Molder Theory, a technique for developing bleed holes for mass extraction using necessary spillage area per unit length and the Kantrowitz Limit for hole spacing. To test the theory Computation Fluid Dynamics using Cart3D, a Cartesian inviscid code, was completed on a simple axisymmetric Busemann inlet with various bleed hole configurations. Results show that hole spacing using the Kantrowitz Limit for inlet starting are slightly more efficient in terms of overall mass capture than holes evenly spaced along the length of the inlet. Hypersonic wind tunnel tests are to be completed witha GoHypersonic Inc. axisymmetric Busemann scramjet inlet using the Kantrowitz Limit and Molder Theory for bleed hole configuration design. Experimental results will be obtained for validation of the Molder Theory for perforation location and sizing.


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Wilberforce UniversityTanisha M. Brinson



How the United States Air Force Is Protecting the United States ofAmerica with Computer Systems Programming

Research Topic:


Dr. Edward AsikeleAdvisor(s):

Biography: Greetings to all. My name is Tanisha M. Brinson, and I am a Senior Ohio Space Grant recipient for the 2011-2012 school year. I am originally from Chicago, Illinois, where I graduated from Michele Clark Preparatory Magnet High School in June of 2007. I am currently a student at Wilberforce University pursuing a Bachelor’s Degree in Computer Information Systems. My father had a great influence on me choosing my major. We both share the same passion for computers and technology. Here at Wilberforce University I am involved in many organizations such as: National Society ofLeadership and Success; Student Government Association Budget and Finance Committee; Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc. (secretary and treasurer); and UNCF Pre-Alumni Council. After receiving my degree, I plan on enlisting in the U. S. AirForce to become a developmental engineer. To follow in my father’s footsteps, I plan to serve my country to my best abilities.

Abstract: The responsibilities of Computer Systems Programming personnel are to supervise and perform either as computer analyst, coder, tester and manager in the design, development, maintenance, testing, configuration management,and documentation of application software systems, client-server, and web-enabled software and relational database systems critical to war fighting capabilities. The Air Force Specialty Code (AFSC) is an alphanumeric code used by the United States Air Force (USAF) to identify an Air Force Specialty (AFS). Declining fiscal resources, expanding diversity of mission, and ever changing technologies in the Air Force are impacting the availability of its most valuable resource, people.These constraining factors will continue to exist in the future, making it essential for the work force to be effectively and efficiently trained to perform duties within each skill level of an Air Force Specialty. In order to meet the challenges of tomorrow, the Air Force must place a greater emphasis on career field training. This Communications-Computer Systems Programming Career Field Education/Training Plan provides a comprehensive core training document that identifies life-cycle training/education requirements, support resources, and minimum core task requirements.

This research project will deal with the aspects of the United States Air Force and the standards for security that protect operating systems, application software, files, and databases from unauthorized access to sensitive information, or misuseof communication-computer resources. The research effort will pinpoint the duties of Computer Systems Programming personnel in the USAF. Also, it will describe USAF processes of protecting operating systems, software and files; and will also describe how are these systems being attacked.


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Wilberforce UniversityMalcolm X. Haraway



Design Analysis and Modeling of Hazardous Waste Containment Vessels in Support of Safe Nuclear Waste Transport

Research Topic:

Junior, Computer EngineeringStatus:


Biography: I come all the way from Houston, Texas, where I have lived all my life. Now I am a Junior attending WilberforceUniversity, and I am currently majoring in Computer Engineering and have a minor in Nuclear Engineering. I have chosen my major because technology has always been a passion and interest to me from the furthest I can remember. Nuclear Engineering has become a new interest of mine in the past couple of years thanks to my Advisor, Dr. Asikele.

I have learned very much since studying at Wilberforce University. I have learned to program using C++ language, mechanics and how to design machines using Solid Works. Also I have learned about safety issues with nuclear waste andhow to manage it. I am also very involved with Wilberforce University. I am currently a Student Ambassador, Tour Guide, aswell as a member of the Student Government Association. Also I am the current reigning President of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc. Delta Chapter and Secretary of Student African American Brotherhood.

Abstract: Nuclear energy is a growing source of energy today in America. Though to produce nuclear energy you need nuclear power plant and with nuclear power plant nuclear waste is produced. With that being said the question is “What happens to this nuclear waste?”, or “How is it transported?” I am here to design a containment waste transport vessel to safely transport and nuclear waste to a destination. I will design this vessel based on the Federal Regulation Commission’sSafety requirements. I will base my design standards on Section 50. I will be using Solid Works to design and test the vessel.

Some concepts I will need to incorporate will be finite element analysis, boundary conditions, meshing algorithm, material properties, poison ratio, geometric material, loading, and deformation characteristics. I will also calculate fatigue, stress, dynamics, inertia, load, and impact to determine the stableness of the vessel.


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79

Wilberforce UniversityJasmine N. Irvin



Bioelectromagnetics ResearchResearch Topic:


Dr. Nkorni KatteAdvisor(s):

Biography: My name is Jasmine Nicole Irvin, born and raised in Newark, NJ. I am currently a Senior at Wilberforce University; majoring in Computer Engineering with a minor in Nuclear Engineering. I like to model, act, learn about computers, and study with my friends. I have always been fond of computers as a child, but I really became interested in the engineering aspect when I was in the 8th grade. My 8th grade teacher and I build two computers together, and I fell in love with computers and engineering even more. At Wilberforce University, I am a Student Ambassador, a member of the SGA Activities Committee, and a member of the UNCF Pre-Alumni executive board. My goals after graduation is to attendgraduate school where I can further my education in computer engineering. I came to Wilberforce to get out of New Jersey,and see life in other places.

Abstract: The general area of my research is in Bioelectromagnetics which involves the interaction of electromagnetic energy with biological samples such as the human body. A particular focus of the research is to seek ways to improve the popular medical diagnostic technique, which is the Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI).

The available commercial MRI are associated with a number of setbacks. It is very expensive to install and maintain. It is not portable and has a large Cryogenics which provides cooling for the super-conducting magnets responsible for creating the Strong magnetic fields. It is not appropriate to detect samples with metallic content since it use microwaves which is reflected by metallic surfaces.

A novel technique to overcome the setbacks of the conventional MRI is the Optical Atomic Magnetometer (OAM) originally proposed and designed which uses light emitted by a low power laser to orientate the spin of alkali metal atoms to be sensitive to MRI signals, thereby eliminating completely the need to provide a high magnetic field. This technique has beenshown to have a very high sensitivity and it is low cost compared to the conventional technique. This research is directed intwo areas, firstly we seek to provide optical techniques that will enable the construction of high sensitive images for the OAM, and secondly to design organ specific RF coils for the conventional MRI which will be highly sensitive to produce images with excellent contrast.


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Wilberforce UniversityMichael D. Williams



Configuration of Field-Programmable Gate Array Integrated CircuitsResearch Topic:



Biography: My name is Michael Williams. I was born in Compton, California, but primarily raised in Moreno Valley, California. In August of 2006, my family and I moved to Seattle, WA, where I completed my senior year. I am a faithful member of First African Methodist Episcopal Church in Seattle. It was there that I was recruited by Wilberforce University. Ichose to move to Ohio to pursue a Computer Engineering Degree at Wilberforce and have managed to maintain above a 3.0 GPA in my area of study. My professional experience spawns back to 2008 when I first landed my internship with the Boeing Company. There I have been working as a Flight Test Engineer in the area of commercial airplanes. I have been returning to work with them every summer since. While at home during the summer I live with my parents Bertram and Denise Williams, and my two sisters, Alexis and Kelsey.

Abstract: A field-programmable gate array (FPGA) is an integrated circuit designed to be configured by the customer or designer after manufacturing. They call it "field-programmable" because it is configured once the chip is placed into operation in the field. In my project I plan to analyze a full-custom logic circuit and then implement it on the field-programmable gate array integrated circuit. Using a visual hardware descriptive language software, I will research the methods required to configure a FPGA. The FPGA configuration is generally programmed using a hardware description language, similar to one used for an application-specific integrated circuit. FPGAs can be used to implement any logical function that an application-specific integrated circuit can perform. The ability to update the functionality after shipping, partial re-configuration of part of the chip and the low non-recurring engineering costs, provide opportunity for many applications. Applications of FPGAs include digital signal processing, aerospace and defense systems, computer vision, speech recognition, cryptography, and metal detection to name a few. Looking at a FPGA from the circuit level shows that itis designed like a railroad depot, where different circuits can be configured, or connected, by modifying the logic block components. These blocks are interconnected by a series of configurable routing channels, or railroads, which allow the circuits to be so versatile.


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Wilberforce UniversityChristopher A. Adams



Radio Frequency Automated Control System for Automobile Application

Research Topic:



Biography: I am a passionate engineer who inspires to innovate, and create. Someday I hope to make the world a betterplace by finding a form of sustainable energy, this concern is regarding our ozone depletion crisis. This can only be done through in my opinion by utilizing nuclear power as our world’s top sustainable energy. That passion has led me to study Electrical Engineering as a major, and Nuclear Engineering as a minor. I have interned with several companies like: National Nuclear Security Administration, Cintas Corporation’s Research and Development Department (a branch of the Engineering Department), etc. At Cintas, I created the invention to effectively test the coefficient of static and kinetic frictionon various floor types for one of their products. I have received certification for Radio Frequency Identification system installations and operation. I plan on attending The Ohio State University for graduate school with determination to completethe Nuclear Engineering Program for a Master’s Degree, and the Electrical Engineering Program for a Master’s Degree aswell. With that I will plan on going into a business of my own designing graphite water reactors, or the common PWRs or BWRs.

Abstract: I am designing a project that will use a Radio Frequency sensor that will transmit a signal of information gatheredfrom rain pressures, humidity levels, temperatures, and luminescent stages. This information will be sent to the CPU main frame, based on the information gathered; a command will be sent to the reader which will automatically enact different systems in an automobile, such as: in-car temperature, head lamps, windshield wipers, and rear windshield defrost. This will all be done in an automated manner and in-car temperatures that can be set to the user’s liking.


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Wilberforce UniversityMahogany M. Williams



Determination of the Potential Classes of Solar Fares on Earth Using Fuzzy Logic Application

Research Topic:


Dr. Deok NamAdvisor(s):

Biography: My name is Mahogany Williams, and I am a current Senior majoring in Computer Engineering from Indianapolis, Indiana. I am currently a student leader which allows me to remain focused so that I may be a model for othersto follow. On my campus I am currently involved as a Residential Assistant, member of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc. (President), Black Women United (Historian), and a mentor for the mentor/mentee program. I have always taken pleasure inmath and technology and that is one reason why I decided to choose this particular field of engineering. Upon graduating Iwant to use my minor degree in Nuclear Engineering to be an operator of a neighboring power plant.

Abstract: Soft computing can be frequently used to exploit the tolerance for imprecision and uncertainty to achieve tractability and robustness like fuzzy logic which provides techniques for handling cognitive issues in the real world. This paper will show the determination of the potential classes of solar flares due to the number of times a certain type of solar flare occurred in a 24 hour period using fuzzy logic application. A flare is defined as a sudden, rapid, and intense variation in brightness. A solar flare occurs when magnetic energy that has built up in the solar atmosphere is suddenly released. Radiation is emitted across virtually the entire electromagnetic spectrum, from radio waves at the long wavelength end, through optical emission to x-rays and gamma rays at the short wavelength end. The amount of energy released is the equivalent of millions of 100-megaton hydrogen bombs exploding at the same time. The first solar flare recorded in astronomical literature was on September 1, 1859. Two scientists, Richard C. Carrington and Richard Hodgson, were independently observing sunspots at the time, when they viewed a large flare in white light. Solar flares that enter into the Earth's atmosphere will affect the EEF by disrupting the electrical and magnetic components of the EEF, as well as the Earth's physical components.


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Wright State UniversityRachel L. Bryant



Wireless ChargingResearch Topic:


Dr. Yan ZhuangAdvisor(s):

Biography: I am Senior at Wright State University majoring in Electrical Engineering, with a focus in electromagnetics andmicrowaves. I first discovered my passion for math and science while attending my junior high and high school, Stivers School for the Arts in Dayton, Ohio. Shortly after beginning my seventh grade year, I was selected to become a member ofthe Wright STEPP program. Each summer in this program, members were introduced to the many different types of engineering. As soon as I learned about electrical engineering, I knew that that was what I wanted to do. I have been working on my design project, with faculty advisor Dr. Yan Zhuang, in which we hope to maximize wireless power transfer efficiency. I am a member of Tau Beta Pi, a national engineering honors society. I will graduate in March, 2012, with Honors and plan to continue my education by pursuing my Master’s Degree.

Abstract: Electronics require a cable connection to a power supply when charging their battery, which can be inconvenientand restrictive. Problems can also arise with the cable, which can easily be lost, or in the charging port, which can easily break. In the past, people have used three main types of wireless charging techniques: antennas, transformers and resonance coupling. Often these techniques have issues with adequate range and power transfer efficiency, which makesusing them impractical. In our approach, we hope to use matched network to maximize the power transfer efficiency of a pair of resonance matched coils to charge a lithium polymer battery or super capacitor at a range of no more than 3 meters.A wireless charging system that is efficient could be a convenient and less restrictive option. Free from the limitations caused by cable connections all people could benefit.

Publications:1. Ohio Space Grant Consortium (April 8, 2011) 2010-2011 Annual Student Research Symposium Proceedings XIX. Ohio

Aerospace Institute, Cleveland, Ohio, pages 69-70.

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Wright State UniversityIsiah A. Kendall



Analysis of NFL ConcussionsResearch Topic:

Senior, Biomedical EngineeringStatus:

Dr. Tarun GoswamiAdvisor(s):

Biography: I am a Senior Ohio Space Grant Recipient for the 2011-2012 school year. My hometown is Columbus Ohio. Iam currently a Senior at Wright State University pursuing my Bachelor of Science Degree in Biomedical Engineering. Choosing this major is something I have dreamed about ever since I was very young. Throughout my life I have had many injuries including broken bones and severing my finger. Luckily I was able to recover with no problems, but I know others may have not been as lucky. From that moment on in my life I decided that I wanted to devote my time to helping others in need of mechanical prosthetics and other machine driven devices. All through my academic years I have not only learned about the anatomy and physiology of the body, but also the skills required to make biomechanical improvements. All of which have driven me to pursue my dream even more.

I am currently a part of the National Society of Black Engineers Executive board (NSBE) and The Dean’s Leadership Institute program for aspiring Engineers. Aside from school, I enjoy reading, writing and playing instruments. I have been playing guitar for 3 years and hope to continue playing for the rest of my life.

Upon completing my degree at Wright State University, I plan on pursuing a job or attending graduate school in the Biomedical Engineering field. I would like to focus my studies in the Biomechanics of the body in hope of using my creativeabilities to aid the less fortunate.

Abstract: Concussions due to athletic activities is something that is persistently growing, specifically in the field of football.When two players run towards each other in opposed directions and collide they experience conservation of momentum. When the momentum is transferred, a force is also applied to the head based on a series of mechanical events. This process evokes a certain amount of G-force on the skull, which may lead to indications of a concussion. The objective of this research project is to not only understand the full expansion of an impact leading to a concussion (specifically occurringin the NFL), but also what is currently being done to moderate them. Data will be obtained by analyzing different collision scenarios and how much G-force is accumulated. The investigation of different types of football helmets will be examined inthe event of seeing which brand provides the best protection from the G-force threshold leading to a concussion.


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Wright State UniversityMatthan B. Sink



Semantic Framework for Data Collection and Querying for Knowledge Discovery

Research Topic:


Dr. Amit ShethAdvisor(s):

Biography: Originally from Covington, Ohio, I am currently attending Wright State University pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science. Always interested in technology and computers, a degree in Computer Science provides theopportunity to both develop new technology and collaborate with other computer scientists, all while creating a product thatcan be used to simplify specific process for other individuals. Since Fall of 2010, I have had the opportunity to collaborate with students pursuing their Master’s and Doctorate Degrees at the Kno.e.sis Center at Wright State. This opportunity has simultaneously provided valuable experience and the chance to work with cutting-edge research in cooperation with graduate students.

Abstract: As researchers continue to discover new information, they look for a way to share their research with fellow researchers. The newest way to do this is to use the Semantic Web, allowing them to store their data in a universal format,providing the opportunity for other researchers around the world to access their data. Due to the complexities that make upthe Semantic Web, it is necessary for these researchers to collaborate with computer scientists to successfully store their data. This collaboration requires that any changes a researcher needs to make to their data must be passed on to a computer scientist, who then performs the changes. This application allows a researcher - armed with an ontology - to create their own forms specifically for their data needs, and store that data in valid RDF format without a computer scientistbeing required to assist in the process.

Given an ontology, the application extracts all the known entities from the ontology, and presents them to the user to allow them to select the entities that the data corresponds to. Once a user has selected all the entities, the application creates a form from these entities, allowing the user to enter their data, which is then stored in a Virtuoso graph in RDF format. This data can be further edited or deleted at any later time; other data can also be added into the same form, if the researcher has multiple sets of data for the same graph.


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86

Wright State UniversityBenita I. Gowker



Solar Irrigation Systems AnalysisResearch Topic:


Dr. James MenartAdvisor(s):

Biography: Benita Gowker is an Electrical Engineering student at Wright State University. She was born on March 19th, 1980, in Lagos, Nigeria. She is innovative and creative. She is adventurous and loves to learn new things. Her favorite book is “7 Habits of Highly Effective People” by Stephen R. Covey.

Abstract: This project models a computer program that performs and analysis a solar irrigation system. MATLAB is the program used for this project, to calculate the performance of the system at any time of the day or year for the location of Piqua in Ohio. The program determines the amount of solar insolation on two solar panels located on a farm in Piqua Ohio.The program simulates the performance of the solar panels, battery bank and water pump used in the system. The final output will be the amount of energy produced in the system as well as the amount of water that can be pumped by the system.


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Wright State UniversityKevin M. Hatcher



Neck and Head Injury Criteria and How It Relates to Pilot EjectionResearch Topic:

Junior, Biomedical EngineeringStatus:

Dr. Tarun GoswamiAdvisor(s):

Biography: I am currently a Junior at Wright State University studying Biomedical Engineering. I am originally from Cleveland, Ohio, and attended St. Peter Chanel High School. Besides focusing on my major work I also hold leadership roles at my university. Currently I am the Programs Chair for my university’s chapter of the National Society of Black Engineers, and I am also a Resident Assistant for one of the on-campus housing apartments at Wright State.

Abstract: In this research the criteria of neck and head injuries are examined to see if the forces experienced in car crashes can relate to the forces that fighter jet pilots experience. The data that the National Highway Traffic Administration (NHTSA) has presented on injury data and the Abbreviated Injury Scales (AIS) will be used in classifying the types of injuries that pilots could experience during ejection. With the NHTSA data and the AIS the research should show that pilotwill experience AIS values that affect the lower cervical spine of C7-T1 rather than the upper C1-C4.


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88

Youngstown StateGarrick M. Brant



Detection of NO2 Using Carbon NanotubesResearch Topic:


Dr. Pedro CortesAdvisor(s):

Biography: I am currently in my Junior year of undergraduate studies in Chemical Engineering at Youngstown State University. I graduated Magna Cum laude from Lakeland Community College in May, 2010, with an Associate’s of Scienceand an Associate’s of Arts. I transferred to Youngstown State University in August, 2010, to complete my undergraduate studies. During my sophomore year at Youngstown State, I began working with Dr. Pedro Cortes on detecting chemical analytes using carbon nanotubes and this sparked my interest in nanotechnology and material science. After graduation I will pursue a career in industry within the Cleveland area.

Abstract: Fast and accurate detection of hazardous chemicals is important for public health and safety. NO2 is a pollutant formed by combustion and can be found both indoors and out. The health effects associated with NO2 exposure are eye, nose, and throat irritation and may cause impaired lung function and increased respiratory infections in young children [1]. The objective of this research is to investigate the use of Carbon Nanotubes (CNTs) physically modified with polymers to detect NO2. The physical modification of the CNTs, by wrapping them in various polymers, seems to yield better detection than chemically modifying them. The ratio of polymer to CNT’s is also an important factor in NO2 detection. The CNTs andpolymers alone do not detect NO2, but certain ratios of the two combined show better detection than other ratios. The effectof using cheaper Small Multi-Wall Carbon Nanotubes (SMWCNTs), compared to more expensive Single-Wall Carbon Nanotubes (SWCNTs), is also being researched in order to create a more cost effective detection platform.

References:1. “An Introduction to Indoor Air Quality (IAQ)”, United States Environmental Protection Agency, www.epa.gov/iaq/no2.

html

Publications:1. Pedro Cortes, Garrick, M. Brant and Geofrey B. Smith, “Detection of Chemical Analytes Using Carbon Nanotubes” in

XXXII National Meeting and First International Congress AMIDIQ, May, 2011.

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89

Youngstown StateAubrey A. Garland



Analysis of a Passive – Adaptive Hydrodynamic SealResearch Topic:


Dr. Hazel MarieAdvisor(s):

Biography: Presently, I am a Junior Mechanical Engineering at Youngstown State University. I was raised just south of Pittsburgh, PA, where I attended the University of Pittsburgh and graduated with a B.A. in Business and Political Science. After working in the financial industry for several years, I made the decision to return to school and pursue a degree in Mechanical Engineering. Since returning to school I have been on the Dean’s List every semester and maintained studentmembership in the American Society of Mechanical Engineers, the Society of Women Engineers and the Society of Petroleum Engineers. I was also inducted in the Golden Key Honors Society last spring. This year I have also been workingas a Teaching Assistant for Thermodynamics 1. I really have enjoyed helping the sophomore mechanical engineers progress in their education. This past summer I had the opportunity to work at Universal Well Services as a field engineering intern in the hydraulic fracturing industry. The experience was phenomenal and I am excited to explore the fieldthat is having such an impact on both Ohio and Pennsylvania once I graduate.

Abstract: The objective of the research is to analyze the design of a passive-adaptive hydrodynamic seal. The seal assembly acts as a contacting labyrinth seal to replace the current seal in a dry compressor. The seal is meant to be utilizedwithout having to redesign any other compressor parts. The current seal plates, elements and springs will be replaces with the new design such that the new seal assembly acts as a contacting labyrinth seal with a built in pressure equalization port.


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COMMUNITY

COLLEGE

SCHOLARS

Columbus State CCDarren M. Conley



Biodegradable Slurry Vs. Non- Biodegradable Slurry in Deep Wall Excavations

Research Topic:

Sophomore, Construction ManagementStatus:

Dean M. Bortz M.A., CSI, CDTAdvisor(s):

Biography: I am originally from Dayton, Ohio, and hold a Bachelor of Science Degree in Regional Planning from Iowa State University. My interest in Construction and Civil Engineering began while completing my studies in planning and increased ten-fold after starting my own small construction and remodeling business in Columbus , Ohio. Speaking with anadvisor in the Construction Engineering Department at Columbus State Community College, I discovered a desire to become as multi-dimensional in these disciplines as possible. I will realize this goal by earning degrees in Construction Management and Civil Engineering. I plan to follow these accomplishments with certifications in Building Integration Modeling (BIM), Computer Aided Design and Geographic Information Systems (GIS).

Abstract: The objective of this project is to examine the issues concerning biodegradable slurry mixtures vs. non-biodegradable slurry mixtures in deep wall excavation and construction. Slurry construction can be used to seal excavatedwalls against water intrusion or as a barrier to contain deposited contaminants which may threaten the fresh groundwater supply and/or the surrounding soil deposits.


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91

Columbus State CCLeah M. Oty



Green Roofing Vs. Traditional RoofingResearch Topic:

Sophomore, Construction Engineering TechnologyStatus:

Dean Bortz, M.A., CSI, CDTAdvisor(s):

Biography: My name is Leah Oty, and I am currently a Sophomore in the Architecture and Construction Management programs at Columbus State Community College. My hometown is London, Ohio. I graduated from Madison Plains High School in London, Ohio, in 2009. Growing up I was always intrigued by how things worked and how they were put together.In addition, I also had a great interest in architecture and the design of buildings. These interests as a child are a strong partof my decision to enter a construction and design fields of study.

Abstract: Roofs rank near the top of the list when it comes to places homes can see big benefits from possibly going green. After all it is a perfect candidate for improving your home’s over all energy efficiency, because of its exposure to heat, cold, and sunlight. Also since your roof is your homes most important line of defense when it comes to protecting youand your family from the elements, it’s easy to see why homeowners are weighing there options on roofing materials and methods. The goal of this project is to determine whether green roofing would be a better roofing method than more traditional roofing.


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92

Cuyahoga CCPhillip E. Johnson



Harmful Effects of Film Processing Vs. DigitalResearch Topic:

Sophomore, Visual Communications/Digital VideoStatus:

Dr. Donna Moore-RamseyAdvisor(s):

Biography: I am from the East Side of the Cleveland area, in the Slavic Village neighborhood. What attracted me to Cuyahoga Community College (Tri-C) was that the school had included a film degree program, which it needed so badly tobe in competition with other schools that were already offering it and getting students on the fast track. Tri-C gives the edgeby letting the student loan out equipment to get a feel of what it is like to get a foot in the film industry, and to hone their skills, where a lot of colleges don’t do that, and it’s vital to the student’s learning. I also love working on houses whenever the chance arises.

Never married, born and raised in Cleveland, Ohio. Love to play basketball on the regular and chess for mental stimulation.

Abstract: For decades hazardous chemicals have been used in the film industry to develop negatives. Despite the awareness that certain chemicals have been linked to the development of skin and lung problems, the same processes continue to be used. Cost-effective, safe, and recyclable methods are now available which remove the risks faced by employees. Awareness needs to be raised in the film industry for these new methods to protect the environment and employees.


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93

Sinclair CommunityGerald A. Munguia



AileronsResearch Topic:

Sophomore, Aviation TechnologyStatus:

Jeremy GalloglyAdvisor(s):

Biography: My name is Gerald Munguia. I was born on June 29th, 1965, in Aberdeen, Maryland. I am a military brat, sowe moved every two to three years. I have lived all over the United States and have also lived in Bolivia, South America, aswell as Fulda, Germany. In 1977, we moved to Dayton, Ohio, where my Dad retired, and I currently reside.

Abstract: My research project will be on Ailerons. I will describe their function on an aircraft, the parts that make up the aileron and definitions describing these parts.

When I have completed my project, my goal is that everyone who reads/sees it will have a better understanding of Ailersonsand their function on an aircraft.


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94

EDUCATION

SCHOLARS

Cedarville UniversityJennifer J. Lyon



Mathematics of RocketsResearch Topic:

Junior, Adolescent to Young Adult Education (AYA), MathematicsStatus:

Dr. Jennifer HutchisonAdvisor(s):

Biography: I graduated from Meadow Creek Christian School in 2009. I am currently a Junior at Cedarvillle University studying for an Integrated Mathematics Education Degree and will graduate in the Spring of 2013. I hope to find a job in a high school after graduation where I can teach the subject I love. I look forward to a career with students and cannot wait tosee what they can learn. I am excited to help the next generation of students develop a love for mathematics and science.

Abstract: This project will use algebra and geometry to introduce students to mathematics side of rockets. There will be a few days class preparation in which my students will learn the basic concepts needed to plan for their projects. They will learn such topics as trajectory, acceleration, and velocity. The students will then use what they learned to create their own rockets and plan their own launch to see who can launch their rocket the farthest. They will have to factor in what angle theywant to launch their rocket from as well as the basic design. They will be provided the materials in class but may have to work on building their rocket at home. They will also be given the opportunity to improve their design after the project is due.


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95

Cleveland StateEmily S. Horrigan



Can Another Planet Support the Human Lifestyle?Research Topic:

Senior, Adolescent to Young Adult Education, ScienceStatus:

Robert L. Ferguson, Ph.D.Advisor(s):

Biography: In May 2012, I will graduate from Cleveland State University with my Bachelor’s of Science in Biology. In addition to my degree, I am working towards my licensure to teach biology and earth/space science for Grades 7-12. My goal for after graduation is that I will be an effective teacher and help my students be competitive in their endeavors after high school.

Abstract: The human population of Earth is around 7 billion people. Scientists argue that the population is reaching the earth’s carrying capacity due to the consumption of goods at a greater rate than resources can renew themselves. In a project-based learning experience, students will determine if any planet in our solar system could support human life, as weknow it. The students would need to explore what composes our lithosphere, biosphere, and atmosphere here on earth. Once that is understood, the students could explore the planets in the solar system, using NASA materials, to see if there isan option for human emigration.


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96

Cleveland StateStephanie A. Rischar



The Electromagnetic Spectrum: Exploring the Chemical Composition of our Solar System

Research Topic:

Graduate Student, Adolescent to Young Adult Education, ScienceStatus:

Dr. Robert FergusonAdvisor(s):

Biography: Stephanie is currently a post-baccalaureate student in the CSUTeach program at Cleveland State Universityworking towards a licensure in Chemistry and Physics. She is an alumna of Case Western Reserve University where she obtained her Bachelor of Arts in Chemistry. As a student at CWRU, Stephanie enjoyed spreading her passion for science through her involvement in Alpha Chi Sigma Professional Chemistry Fraternity, Gelfand Science and Engineering Fellows, and as a volunteer event captain for the CWRU Regional Science Olympiad competition.

When not in school, Stephanie works at the Children’s Museum of Cleveland and spends her summers running the day camp program at Camp Whitewood. She also serves as a 4-H advisor for the Geauga County Junior Leaders 4-H Club. Stephanie enjoys working with youth of all ages, and looks forward to completing her licensure this May and working in herown high school classroom for many years to follow.

Abstract: When atoms are excited they emit light of certain wavelengths which correspond to different colors. The emitted light can be observed as a series of colored lines with dark spaces in between; this series of colored lines is called a line oratomic spectra. Each element produces a unique set of spectral lines. Since no two elements emit the same spectral lines,elements can be identified by their line spectrum. When we are able to identify elements by their unique spectral lines, we can use this information to determine the chemical composition of various light sources.

In this lab, students must first use a flame test and spectroscopes to determine the unique spectra for different elements. The students will then apply this knowledge to other sources of lights throughout the classroom (incandescent, fluorescent,sunlight, etc.) and also to images of spectra of various stars and objects in our solar system. From the data collected in theflame tests the students will be able to determine the chemical composition of the celestial objects being studied.


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97

Marietta CollegeAnna J. Gill



Determining Star CompositionResearch Topic:

Senior, Middle Childhood Education (Language Arts/Science)Status:

Dr. Cathy MowrerAdvisor(s):

Biography: Anna Gill is a Senior at Marietta College. She will graduate in May, 2012, with a major in Middle Childhood Education and concentrations in science and language arts, a reading endorsement, and a teacher leadership certificate. Inher four years at Marietta College, Anna has been involved with many campus organizations and academic honoraries, including Kappa Delta Di (education honorary), Omicron Delta Kappa (leadership honorary), InterVarsity Christian Fellowship, Circle K International service organization, Students for Environmental Awareness, and the Scholars Community. Anna also had the opportunity to study abroad for five months in South Africa in 2011. In the coming months, Anna will be applying for teaching jobs in Ohio and West Virginia, as well as to a missions and social justice internship through the United Methodist church, with hopes of going abroad to volunteer and teach.

Abstract: How do scientists know the chemical composition of stars, when they have never been to them? One way is to use a spectroscope. When different elements burn, they give off specific colors of light that can be detected using a spectroscope. By dispersing the light given off by stars through a spectroscope, we can look at images showing unique pattern of dark and colored bands. These bands correspond to specific chemicals in the burning star.

Students can simulate this method for determining the chemical composition of stars through a flame test lab. Students willbe given different chemicals to test to discover their “fingerprint,” or line emission spectrum. Students will dip a metal loop into a chemical and light it. They will first view the flame color with their naked eyes to record the color, and then will use a diffraction grating spectrometer to view the bands of color that result. Students will then explore how the bands act as a “marker” for particular types of elements that may be present in different stars.


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98

Miami UniversityCaroline I. Miller



The Planets and Me: an Exploration WebquestResearch Topic:

Sophomore, Early Childhood EducationStatus:

Dr. Ann MackenzieAdvisor(s):

Biography: My name is Caroline Miller, and I am currently a Sophomore attending Miami University studying Early Childhood Education. I am also working towards a thematic sequence in special education, as well as planning to get certified to teach fourth and fifth grade as well.

I am actively involved on campus being part of Miami University’s Collegiate Chorale, holding the position of leadership chair in the sorority Alpha Delta Pi, participating in Adopt-a-school, and currently pledging the educational honors fraternity,Kappa Delta Pi. Miami University has given me many opportunities to gain knowledge and experience with early childhoodeducation. Since my freshman year I have had opportunities to work in classrooms, gaining valuable experience. Working as a student tutor at Miami’s Rinella Center, teaching Sunday School at my local church, as well as working as a camp counselor during my summers have only confirmed my passion of teaching. After graduating college I hope to pursue a career in education and inspire children to enjoy learning while encouraging them to be their best.

Abstract: As a teacher, I believe it is particularly important to instill the interest and exploration of science in children. During the range of grades 3-5 children are supposed to be able to explain the characteristics, cycles, and patterns involving earth and its place in the solar system according to the new Ohio science content standards. I believe that the NASA websites provides teachers with a great educational resource that can be used in the classroom. My idea for my educational project is to utilize the NASA website to create an Internet Webquest that children in small groups could do.

A Web quest is a lesson where most, if not all of the information the students learn is from the web, and the websites that the teacher has previously found for that specific lesson. Teachers create a page with instructions for the students on what they must learn from each website, then guide the students through the websites through links that they provide. Webquests also have educational videos on them, as well as sometimes animations.

In this Webquest, the children will be responsible for learning about a specific planet by going to websites that I provide for them through the NASA website. The children would then use what they have learned about their planet and create it with the materials that I provide. While scale versions of the solar system are easily available to buy, having the children create the planets themselves will help them apply the characteristics they have learned about their individual planet, and reiteratewhat they had learned during the Webquest. As a class, we will then place all of the individual parts of our solar system around the classroom, so we have a miniature version. Although at this age children will not be able to create an exact scale model of a planet, they can still use what they know about their planet’s size and compare it to the earth size planet that I will have previously made. This activity would not only utilize, and familiarize the students with valid resources available to them on the Internet, but it would also require teamwork and application of what they have learned on this Webquest. The solar system in the classroom will also provide great visuals during the rest of the space lessons that wouldfollow.


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99

Ohio Northern UniversityChristopher J. Iliff



The Trajectory of CometsResearch Topic:

Senior, Adolescent to Young Adult Education (AYA), MathematicsStatus:

Dr. Sandra SchroederAdvisor(s):

Biography: In 2008, I graduated from Van Buren High School near which is a small town outside of Findlay. I am currentlya Junior Mathematics Education major with a minor in Computer Science at Ohio Northern University. While at Ohio Northern I have been a part of the football team for all three years I have been at Ohio Northern as well as an active member of the fraternity, Delta Sigma Phi where I hold and executive position.

After I graduate, I would like to obtain a teaching job somewhere along the coastal United States. While teaching, I hope tobe coach football and working toward my Master’s Degree in Mathematics.

Abstract: For my lesson I will be discussing the trajectory of comets when their paths are elliptical. I will first pose a question, is there a way we will be able to determine whether or not we will be able to see a comet after seeing it the first time. I will lead them in a discussion about what each of them knows about comets I will lead this discussion into their flightpaths which will lead into a review of ellipses for the class. This review will include things like conic sections, eccentricity and minor and major axes. At the end of this first day I will give the students a work sheet in order to reinforce what we discussed about ellipses and strengthen their understanding for a later application.

The next day I will apply our understanding of ellipses into the orbit of a comet. I will ask the class that when we see a comet how can we be sure that we will see it again. I will review Kepler's Law of Planetary Motion and discuss the equationof an ellipse. When this is done, I will then pose an example of a comet and work through the problem with the class to find the length of the orbit of the comet and when we will be able to see it again. After that I will hand out a worksheet that will allow the students to apply their knowledge learned about the paths of comets and the math behind it.


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100

Ohio Northern UniversityCaitlin M. Zook



Applications of Ellipses in Planetary MotionResearch Topic:

Senior, Adolescent to Young Adult Education (AYA), MathematicsStatus:

Dr. Sandra SchroederAdvisor(s):

Biography: I am currently a Senior Mathematics major at Ohio Northern University (ONU) in Ada, Ohio. Along with my degree in Mathematics, I also am working towards obtaining a teaching license for Grades 7 to 12. During my time at ONUI have been involved in many organizations including Women’s Club Soccer, Fellowship of Christian Athletes, MathematicalAssociation of America, and Kappa Mu Epsilon. After graduation, I hope to find a high school teaching position and begin my career as a math teacher.

Abstract: The objective of my lesson is for students to see the applications of ellipses in planetary motion. Starting with anintroduction of conic sections, this lesson looks at ellipses in particular. Students will be presented with the basic concepts of an ellipse, including the definition, equations, and the associated vocabulary. Students will also look at how to construct an ellipse. The lesson will be loosely based around an activity I found on NASA’s website called the “Elliptical Orbit Activity.”

Once students are familiar with ellipses, the applications can be extended to Kepler’s three laws. The background and history concerning Kepler’s discoveries can be included here to reflect the impact that Kepler and other’s discoveries had tothe accepted view of science at that time. An emphasis will be placed on the first law which says that the planets orbit in anelliptical path with the Sun at one of the foci. Using Kepler’s second law, students will look at Earth’s year and analyze how fast the Earth is traveling at any point on its orbit. Students will also be introduced to Kepler’s third law which deals with the relationship between the distance of the planets from the Sun and their orbital periods.


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101

The University of AkronZachary M. Tocchi



Shapes on a PlaneResearch Topic:

Senior, Adolescent to Young Adult (AYA) Education, MathematicsStatus:

Dr. Craig C. MenzemerAdvisor(s):

Biography: Over the four years of my college career, I have become increasingly involved in various groups and programson and off campus. I currently work at The University of Akron as their Applied Mathematics Research Lab computer administrator and I work off campus as a private tutor and as an after school learning coach at the National Inventors Hall ofFame School. This school has given me the opportunity to work with middle schoolers and teach them a variety of differentcurriculums. I currently am teaching a group of learners about web design and another group about video game design. Along with that, I am a Choose Ohio First Scholar in which I have done a research project, presented at two workshops, andhave taken numerous opportunities to better my knowledge before entering my own classroom. With Choose Ohio First, I presented to a group of K-8 teachers about teaching a variety of math topics without the use of technology. I’ve also presented on geometric constructions and RSA encryption at The University of Akron. Recently, I presented at the GreaterAkron Mathematics Educators Society (G.A.M.E.S.) annual mini-conference about a software package called Cabri 3D. I also co-presented at a SMART Board workshop with my Choose Ohio First advisor. Other organizations I am currently involved in include the Multicultural Honors Society as the historian, the Akron Counsel of Educator Students as the treasurer, the National Society of Leadership and Success as a national member, and the Sigma Alpha Lambda group as athree year member. Academics have always come first for me at Akron, but I do not let my rigorous program stand in the way of building a presence at The University of Akron.

Abstract: When it comes to aircraft, there are tons of different geometrical patterns that go into the design and structure.During our classroom discussion about various shapes, their area and volume, students will discover just which shapes make the best aircraft. On our quest to building a better aircraft, students will apply various geometric and algebraic formulas to determine how they will build their aircraft. Then, we will complete the “Paper Rockets” activity and test our hypotheses about which shapes help the rocket propel the furthest.

References to be Used:http://www.grc.nasa.gov/WWW/k-12/BGA/Monroe/Wing_Area_1_int.htm;http://www.nasa.gov/pdf/295789main_Rockets_High_Power_Paper_Rocket.pdf

Publications:1. Problem Based Learning Approach to Designing Aircrafts”, Ohio Space Grant Consortium Annual Student Research

Symposium Proceedings XIX, pages 326-7.

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102

The University of ToledoCory M. Bishop



Gravity in the Middle GradesResearch Topic:

Graduate Student, Middle Childhood Education, ScienceStatus:

Dr. Mark TemplinAdvisor(s):

Biography: My name is Cory Bishop. I am originally from Painesville, Ohio, raised in Las Vegas, Nevada, and currently live in Sylvania, Ohio. I met my wife Emily in college and we have been married for 2 years. I have a Bachelor of Arts fromThe University of Toledo in Communication. Currently I am a graduate student at The University of Toledo, where I am in the Licensure Alternative Master’s Program or LAMP, working to earn my teaching license in Middle Childhood Education (Science and Social Studies).

Abstract: One concept that I have seen children struggle with is the concept of gravity. When learning about our solar system and the differences between the planets, the topic of gravity was one of the defining characteristics of each planet.Gravity was also discussed when learning about stars and how our planet stays in orbit.

Even though this was continually brought up in many lessons, I feel that children had a difficult time comprehending it and itwas often misunderstood. The concept of gravity is very abstract, one that is very complex and difficult to understand, especially for children. I would like to find ways in which students can understand the effects that gravity has on everything in the universe as well as to find ways to make it easier to comprehend. Helping children to understand and grasp these concepts can be very difficult and the use of visuals and hands-on materials usually prove to be the best way to help children relate to abstract ideas and make them concrete.

Through the use of NASA materials I would like to find interesting and engaging ways to make this very abstract concept more concrete for children in the middle grades.


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103

The University of ToledoSteven E. Solomon



Planetary Geology of Terrestrial Planets and the MoonResearch Topic:

Junior, Adolescent to Young Adult Education, ScienceStatus:

Ms. Libbey McKnightAdvisor(s):

Biography: I am a Junior at The University of Toledo, and my ambition is to teach science at the high school level. My ultimate goal is to get my Master’s Degree in order to become a principal. I am from Canfield, Ohio, where I have one brother and an amazing family. I work at the University as a lab assistant in a soil and ecology lab. My favorite subject is astronomy and I would love to teach this to interested secondary students.

Abstract: The lesson that I will conduct research on will inspire students to pursue a career in astronomy and science. Onemajor part of planetary astronomy is planetary geology specifically dealing with terrestrial planets and moons. The mineralsand rocks that planets and moons are made of are some of the same materials that exist here on earth. These materials arecomposed of elements that were originally created in stars at one time. My lesson will focus mainly on the moon's geology in comparison to earth's geology. This is appropriate because moon rocks are currently the most accessible rocks in the solar system outside of earth. As a result, I will be using the encased moon rocks available to teachers through NASA. In the beginning of the lesson I will ask students where they think certain earth rocks are found here on earth. I will then show them the moon rocks, and because they will not know yet, I will ask where they think they are from in order to get an unbiased opinion. This will then be followed by a short presentation which will lead into the lab portion of the lesson. The labsheet will make the students find certain geologic characteristics of earth rocks and moon rocks by using given samples of each. Students will have to do further research to find the same geologic characteristics of rocks on our local terrestrial planets. I will then ask students to compare and contrast the rocks and minerals of the terrestrial planets, the moon, and earth. I will then close the lesson with a closing presentation highlighting the importance of knowing the geology of the terrestrial planets and our moon.


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104

University of CincinnatiHeather M. Bennett



Designed for Drag: Eighth Grade Project in Parachute Area, Shapeand Mass

Research Topic:

Senior, Middle Childhood Education, Mathematics and ScienceStatus:

Tammy WaldronAdvisor(s):

Biography: My name is Heather Bennett, a Middle Childhood Education major at the University of Cincinnati with a concentration in Math and Science. I have long enjoyed science and worked hard to understand math, though I really cameto like it in Calculus. In high school, my team earned first place in the Clermont County Science Challenge and I received Academic Excellence Awards in math and science among others. In college, I was chosen as top female scholar in the Howard Hughes ExSEL program, a five week program in medical research. I also received awards for excellence in Genetics and Ecology. I will graduate in June with a 4.0 and a minor in biology. This year, however, I am facing the greatestchallenge of my academic career—student teaching seventh and eighth grade (Pre-Algebra and Algebra I at Goshen Middle School). I am very pleased to be given the opportunity to participate in the Ohio Space Grant program for a second year—I learned so much last year! I want to help the kids in my class to tackle math and science in meaningful contexts thatreveal their power. Moreover, I want them to have fun and become lifelong questioners, observers and participants in science. NASA’s educational mission will play an important role in helping us to reach these goals.

Abstract: This activity, which aligns with the newest Ohio standards for middle school measurement, geometry and physical science, is drawn from the NASA Educational Guide Adventures in Rocket Science (EG-2007-12-179-MSFC). Following principles of inquiry, students will engage in parachute design. They will activate background knowledge and previous experience and then develop experiments to test the effects of surface area, shape and mass on the drag createdby a falling parachute. Students will next use their knowledge of mathematics and basic physics to explain their results andextend their initial findings to create a larger test parachute to carry three times the payload in a target amount of time. Finally, they will evaluate their designs and how an organization like NASA could use their results.


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105

University of CincinnatiBrea R. Furman



Effects of Space Travel on the Human BodyResearch Topic:

Senior, Early Childhood EducationStatus:

Linda PlevyakAdvisor(s):

Biography: I am currently a Senior at the University of Cincinnati and will graduate with a Bachelor’s Degree in Early Childhood Education. I am currently completing my internship in a third grade classroom at Fairview-Clifton German Language School. I have previously been a student teacher at Kilgour School in Kindergarten and William Howard Taft Elementary, which is a STEM magnet school, in a Head Start preschool classroom. These three widely diverse student teaching experiences have provided me with a strong foundation in urban education. I have always shown interest in spacescience, beginning with traveling with my family to watch STS-78 launch in Florida, continuing with a trip to Space Camp inHuntsville, Alabama, at age 10. I hope to use the plethora of resources provided through the Ohio Space Grant to enhance the science education of all of my future classrooms.

Abstract: I will be implementing activities from the “Microgravity and Me” activity kit in a third grade classroom. The students have previously completed a unit studying forces and motion. The study of microgravity will consist of extension activities building on the students’ previously constructed knowledge of gravity and forces of motion. This study will be connected to math standards using measurement and data collection.

Students will begin the unit by viewing the DVD NASA CONNECT™: Better Health from Space to Earth. This will be followed by a discussion about the effects of living in space on the human body. Students will participate in activities that willattempt to simulate these sensations, including inducing mild dizziness and walking on sponges to simulate situations of reduced gravity. Students will also interact with the CD-ROM Liftoff to Learning: Living in Space.

Overall, my goal for the students is to gain a deeper understanding of what it means to be an astronaut and live outside theEarth’s atmosphere. I hope that the students begin to understand the effects of microgravity on not only humans but other materials in space, and connect that knowledge to the force of gravity we experience on the surface of the Earth.


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106

Wright State UniversityKathryn R. Reilly



NASA Weightless Wonder: C-9 Jet and Equations of MotionResearch Topic:

Junior, Grades 6-12, PhysicsStatus:

Dr. Brian Boyd, Dr. Sachiko TosaAdvisor(s):

Biography: In 2009 I graduated from Kettering Fairmont High School in Kettering, Ohio. My high school teachers are mymain inspiration for becoming an educator. High school, and all grade school for that matter, is a time of growth in our livesand it was always so comforting to know I had teachers at school who cared about me and wanted to see me succeed. Thisis the kind of impact I want to have on students. This is why I am on track to become a high school physics teacher. I am currently a junior attending Wright State University to obtain a Bachelor’s Degree in Physics. After I receive my Bachelor’s Degree I will continue on to receive my Master’s Degree in Education from Wright State, allowing me to get licensed to teach adolescent to young adult physics in a high school setting.

Abstract: This lesson will be designed for a high school level AP physics student, learning kinematic equations of motion.A multi-step problem, found through the online educational resources on NASA’s website, will be used to illustrate how to use the equations of motion to find relevant quantities such as velocity and displacement. Along with utilizing these physicsequations to achieve numerical answers for analysis, this lesson will encompass ideas of microgravity in space. The C-9 jetin the problem will be introduced along with its uses for microgravity training for astronauts and other microgravity experiments. By using the physics problem concerning the C-9 jet and its travel, in addition to actual applications of the C-9jet for microgravity training and research, the students will be able to understand how microgravity can be simulated for training and testing. Placing an emphasis on applying the physics and math, they should also be able to better grasp the importance of the equations of motion. Materials like videos and visual aids will be utilized, specifically to illustrate the C-9 functions, motion, and maneuvers. By applying physics and math to this NASA application, students will see how useful questions concerning distance, velocity, acceleration, time and shape of the motion of C-9 jets can be answered through physics, while also learning about microgravity.


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Wright State UniversityMarcia J. White



Comparison of Earth Weather and other PlanetsResearch Topic:

Senior, Middle Childhood Education, Science and MathematicsStatus:

Dr. Rebecca TeedAdvisor(s):

Biography: I am from Columbus, Ohio, and I am currently a Senior at Wright State University majoring in Middle Childhood Education with concentrations in math and science. As a child I always wanted to become a teacher. I want children to want to learn new things and as a teacher I want to make learning more exciting. As a teacher you have to makethings more exciting and entertaining so students will not realize they are actually learning. I plan to graduate from Wright State in the Spring of 2013 and to hopefully continue on to obtain my Master’s.

Abstract: For this project many students know about the weather here on earth. What kind of weather is happening on other planets? Here students will explore different planets to find out if the weather on Earth really differs from other planets. Students will research information on other planets to determine if Earth really differs. Then the students will decidewhether some planets could actually support life other than Earth. Students will then try to change a certain aspect about aplanet to make it possible for life to be supported. Students will create a chart comparing and contrasting Earth with planets.


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108

Youngstown StateCharles D. Kish



Newton’s Three Laws of MotionResearch Topic:

Senior, Adolescent to Young Adult (AYA) Education, Integ. ScienceStatus:

Karen HenningAdvisor(s):

Biography: My name is Charlie Kish, and I am currently a Senior at Youngstown State University. I am working toward achieving my Bachelor of Science in Education Degree focusing on Integrated Science. When I graduate, I will be qualified to teach any science in grades seven through twelve, but my main concentration has really always been split between earthscience and chemistry. After I’ve taught for some time at the high school level, I hope to continue my education by pursingmasters and doctorate degrees so that I might teach science at the collegiate level. At this point, however, I’m just staying focused on what is in front of me at this point in time. When I become a teacher, I hope to get a teaching job close to my home and my family, because family is very important to me. In all honesty though, I’d be happy teaching just about anywhere. I enjoy teaching and being a role model to others. You can do this wherever you go; it’s not relevant on locationor grade level. All I know is that I love teaching and I’ll do my best wherever I am.

Abstract: I plan to design a lesson that explores Newton’s Three Laws of Motion using hands-on activities that keep students interested and engaged throughout the learning process. Using technology such as motorized carts and non-motorized carts of varying mass, stopwatches, computer graphing programs, and force sensors students will break down these laws and gain an understanding for Newton’s Three Laws and how they impact us in everyday life.


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Youngstown StateAudra D. Carlson


Timothy J. RyanCongressional Representative(s):

Exploration of Self-Sustaining BiospheresResearch Topic:

Junior, Middle Childhood Education, Science and MathematicsStatus:

Karen HenningAdvisor(s):

Biography: I am a post-baccalaureate student seeking certification in Middle Childhood Education with focus areas in Math and Science. I consider myself a typical example of a “non-traditional” student. I am married and have 3 children. I have worked as an Autism Support Specialist, a Day Camp Program Director for Boy Scouts of America, and currently am aboard member for Grow Youngstown. I substitute teach part time and currently am a troop leader for the Girl Scouts of America.

While completing my thesis work for my B.A. in Psychology in 2005, I was awarded a research grant to study the effects ofgender, socioeconomic status and parental characteristics on perceived levels of self-efficacy in regards to mathematics and science among middle school students. As I worked through my research, I realized I wanted to be on the front lines ofthe fight to keep our students engaged in STEM studies. I didn’t realize until almost four years later that teaching was the best way to do that. I now look forward to having my own classroom soon and am eager to use all that I am learning from my experience with the Ohio Space Grant Consortium. I am grateful for the opportunity to utilize the many teaching tools that NASA has made available to educators, and for their continued support of pre-service teachers.

Abstract: In this scientific inquiry, students will complete the “Lunar Biosphere” activities found in the Exploring the Moon Teacher’s Guide accessed through www.nasa.gov. This activity will take place over three weekly sessions in which studentswill construct, manipulate and observe the progress of their biospheres. Each biosphere will vary in regards to soil composition, amount of water, and amount of sunlight. Each week students will examine their biospheres and measure growth within. Results will be compared based on the previously stated variations between groups.

Through this activity, students will gain experience in conducting research and gathering data, making accurate measurements and journaling. They will gain an understanding of the delicate balance that exists within every ecosystem, and the great lengths that must be made in order to create a self-sustaining environment in harsh climates such as those onthe Moon or on Mars. Current understanding of what elements are necessary to sustain life will be discussed.


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2011-2012 scholar/fellow student journal

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