NSF REU DAY 2010 Interdisciplinary Research Building Galleria (IDRB)
Wednesday, August 4th 2010 USF Research Park
Agenda
10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. Poster Set‐up
11:00 a.m. to 11:15 a.m. Welcome
Rafael A. Pérez, Ph.D.
Professor and Associate Dean, College of Engineering
Cheryl Kirstein, Ph.D.
Professor and Associate Dean for Research and
Scholarship, College of Arts and Sciences
11:15 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Poster Viewing/Judging
11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Lunch
1:15 p.m. to 2:00 p.m. Closing Remarks and Awards Presentation
Karen Holbrook, Ph.D.
Senior Vice President, Office of Research & Innovation
2:30 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. Poster Breakdown
NSF REU in Computer Science & Engineering
Students and Faculty Research Mentors
Victoria Arendt Sergio Andres Beltrán
Christine Bringes Ángel Calderón
Nickalaus Clark Osvaldo Mangual Rodríguez
Juan José Marrón Monteserín Edwin M. Martínez Ávila
Dashawn Matias Kenneth Mendoza
Schatzi Miranda Larry Moore
Christian E. Placeres Rodríguez Demetrius Richardson
Emmanuel Rodríguez Héctor Tosado Jiménez
Khoa Tran
Program Directors
Miguel Labrador, Ph.D., Associate Professor, Department of Computer Science and
Engineering
Rafael A. Perez, Ph.D., Professor, Department of Computer Science and Engineering and Associate Dean for Academics
Faculty Research Mentors
Sean Barbeau, B.S., Research Associate, Center for Urban and Transportation Research Kenneth Christensen, Ph.D., Professor, Department of Computer Science and Engineering Dmitry Goldgof, Ph.D., Professor, Associate Chair, & Graduate Coordinator, Department of Computer Science and Engineering Lawrence Hall, Ph.D., Professor and Chair, Department of Computer Science and Engineering Miguel Labrador, Ph.D., Associate Professor, Department of Computer Science and Engineering Jay Ligatti, Ph.D., Assistant Professor, Department of Computer Science and Engineering Luther Palmer, Ph.D., Assistant Professor, Department of Computer Science and Engineering Xiaoning Qian, Ph.D., Assistant Professor, Department of Computer Science and Engineering Yun Sun, Ph.D., Assistant Professor, Department of Computer Science and Engineering
Alfredo Weitzenfeld, Ph.D., Visiting Professor, Department of Computer Science and Engineering, Professor Computer Engineering Department, Autonomous Institute of Technology (ITAM), Mexico Hao Zheng, Ph.D., Associate Professor, Department of Computer Science and Engineering
NSF REU in Sustainable Energy Alternatives and the Advanced Materials Florida Georgia Louis Stokes Alliance for Minority Participation
Students and Faculty Research Mentors
Christine Beazley Ismael Ríos
Jeremiah Browne Yohannes Samuel
Justin Carter María Sánchez
Arelys Colon Hayde Silva
Justin Hinson Curtis Thompson
Troy Mobley Cherita Young
Jasmine Pearcey
Program Directors
Sylvia W. Thomas, Ph.D., Assistant Professor, Department of Electrical Engineering Rudy Schlaf, Ph.D., Associate Professor, Department of Electrical Engineering & Director of Undergraduate Research, College of Engineering Faculty Research Mentors
Shekhar Bhansali, Ph.D., Professor, Department of Electrical Engineering Venkat Bhethanabotla, Ph.D., Professor and Chair, Department of Chemical and Biomedical Engineering John Kuhn, Ph.D., Assistant Professor, Department of Chemical and Biomedical Engineering Ashok Kumar, Ph.D., Professor, Department of Mechanical Engineering and Director, Nanotechnology Research and Education Center Gokhan Mumcu, Ph.D., Assistant Professor, Department of Electrical Engineering Rudy Schlaf, Ph.D., Associate Professor, Department of Electrical Engineering, Director of Undergraduate Research, College of Engineering Sylvia W. Thomas, Ph.D., Assistant Professor, Department of Electrical Engineering Jing Wang, Ph.D., Assistant Professor, Department of Electrical Engineering Thomas Weller, Ph.D., Professor, Department of Electrical Engineering and Associate Dean for Research, College of Engineering John Wolan, Ph.D., Associate Professor, Department of Chemical and Biomedical Engineering Mike Zaworotko, Ph.D., Professor, Department of Chemistry
NSF REU in Tampa Interdisciplinary Environmental Research
Students and Faculty Research Mentors
Lucas Ackerknecht Wainella Isaacs
Bárbara Araneda Caleb Jewell
Hildamarie Cáceres Meg Lee
Kassandra Costa Jillianne Matus
TaShae Harrison Heidi Nafis
Emily Henderson
Program Directors
Maya A. Trotz, Ph.D., Associate Professor, Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering Sylvia W. Thomas, Ph.D., Assistant Professor, Department of Electrical Engineering Faculty Research Mentors
Jeff Cunningham, Ph.D., Assistant Professor, Department of Civil and Environmental
Engineering
Sarina Ergas, Ph.D., Associate Professor and Graduate Coordinator, Department of Civil and
Environmental Engineering
Yogi Goswami, Ph.D., John and Naida Ramil Professor, Department of Chemical and
Biomedical Engineering
Foday M. Jawad, Ph.D., Assistant Professor, Department of Environmental and Occupational
Health, College of Public Health
David Lewis, Ph.D., Assistant Professor, Department of Integrative Biology
James R. Mihelcic, Ph.D., Professor and State of Florida 21st Century World Class Scholar,
Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering
Amy Stuart, Ph.D., Assistant Professor, Department of Civil and Enviromental Engineering,
Department of Environmental and Occupational health, College of Public Health
Maya A. Trotz, Ph.D., Associate Professor, Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering Daniel Yeh, Ph.D., Assistant Professor, Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering
Qiong Zhang, Ph.D., Assistant Professor, Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering
NSF REU in Applied Physics
Students and Faculty Research Mentors
Zephra Bell Christopher Persichilli
Christopher Chambers Advaith Rao
Jacob Duscha Andrew Ross
Justin Easley Susanna Todaro
Jahnieka Griffin Jennifer Trinh
Adam laizzi Bryant J. Vande Kolk
Travis Miller Aaron Zaubi
Jennifer Perry
Program Directors
Ivan Oleynik Ph.D., Associate Professor, Department of Physics
Michelle Chabot, Ph.D., Instructor, Department of Physics Faculty Research Mentors
Sagar Pandit, Ph.D., Assistant Professor, Department of Physics
Denis Karaiskaj, Ph.D., Assistant Professor, Department of Physics
Donald Haynie, Ph.D., Associate Professor, Department of Physics
Garrett Mathews, Ph.D., Associate Professor, Department of Physics
George Nolas, Ph.D., Professor, Department of Physics
Martin Muschol, Ph.D., Associate Professor, Department of Physics
Matthias Batzill, Ph.D., Assistant Professor, Department of Physics
Myung Kim, Ph.D., Professor, Department of Physics
Sarath Witanachchi, Ph.D., Professor and Associate Chair, Department of Physics
Xiaomei Jiang, Ph.D., Assistant Professor, Department of Physics
Dennis Killinger, Ph.D., Distinguished University Professor, Department of Physics
Ivan Oleynik, Ph.D., Associate Professor, Department of Physics
Lilia Woods, Ph.D., Assistant Professor, Department of Physics
Venkat Bhethanabotla, Ph.D., Professor and Chair, Department of Chemical and Biomedical Engineering
Index of Poster Presentations
NSF REU in Computer Science & Engineering
Presenter Title Page
Arendt, Victoria Feature Extraction from Pre‐Therapy PET/CT Scans in Patients with Lung Cancer
3
Beltrán, Sergio Andrés Robotic Hands 4
Bringes, Christine Incorporating Micromouse Competition into Undergraduate Courses
5
Calderón, Ángel Simulating Robotic Capabilities 6
Clark, Nickalaus Automatic Red Tide Detection using MODIS Satellite Images and Machine Intelligence
7
Mangual Rodríguez, Osvaldo Medical Image Analysis for Microscopy Images
8
Marrón Monteserín, Juan José Design and Development of a Participatory Sensing System Using Location Based Information Systems and Sensor Integration
9
Martínez Ávila, Edwin M. Automatic Trail Mapping without Satellite Technology
10
Matias, Dashawn Programming NXT Robots to Play Soccer 11
Mendoza, Kenneth Programming NXT Robots to Play Soccer 12
Miranda, Schatzi Communications Protocol for Networked Appliances: Enabling Appliances to Schedule Tasks to Induce Peak Shifting
13
Moore, Larry Synergy Networks and Visualization 14
Placeres Rodríguez, Christian E. An Android Application – Bluetooth Sensor Android Integration
15
Richardson, Demetrius Programming NXT Robots to Play Soccer 16
Rodríguez, Emmanuel A Software Package for Automated Logic Reasoning
17
Tosado Jiménez, Hector A. An Android Application – Text‐To‐Speech 18
Tran, Khoa GO‐Sync: A Framework to Synchronize Mapping Contributions from Online Communities and Transit Agency Bus Stop Inventories
19
Index of Poster Presentations
NSF REU in Sustainable Energy Alternatives and the Advanced Materials
Florida Georgia Louis Stokes Alliance for Minority Participation
Presenter Title Page
Beazley, Christine ‘Doctor Blade’ vs. Electrospray Deposition of Titanium Dioxide Nanoparticles for the Production of Dye Sensitized Solar Cells
21
Browne, Jeremiah Conductive Nanocomposite Polymers for Supercapacitor Application
22
Carter, Justin Cocrystal‐Controlled Synthesis of Imide Molecules for Generation of Metal Organic Materials
23
Colon, Arelys Growth of Silica Nanowires using Pd, Au, and in seed layers for Cancerous Cells Detection for Biological MEMS Sensor Devices
24
Hinson, Justin Ultrasound Diagnostics of Chemical Mechanical Polishing Pads
25
Mobley, Troy An Alternative Small‐Signal Diode Modeling Parameter Extraction Technique
26
Pearcey, Jasmine Developing a Biosensor Utilizing Surface Acoustic Wave Devices
27
Ríos, Ismael Twin Rotor Micro‐Turbine 28
Samuel, Yohannes A Compact Reconfigurable Channel Emulator Chamber for Multipath Frequency Measurements
29
Sánchez, María Structure‐Function Relations of Pd Nanoparticles for Fuel Cell Electrocatalysis
30
Silva, Hayde Variation in Microneedle Geometry to Increase Shear Strength
31
Thompson, Curtis Morphology and Surface Reactivity of Pd Nanoparticles
32
Young, Cherita Analysis of Fischer‐Tropsch liquid fuels through Gas Chromatography
33
Index of Poster Presentations
NSF REU in Tampa Interdisciplinary Environmental Research
Presenter Title Page
Ackerknecht , Lucas Polybrominated Diphenyl Ethers in Wastewater 35
Araneda, Bárbara Student, Community, and City Working Partnerships for Stormwater Pond Maintenance
36
Cáceres, Hildamarie Anaerobic Biodegradation of Landfill Leachate 37
Costa, Kassandra The Effects of Soil Aging on the Extraction of Pentachlorophenol (PCP) from Contaminated Soil
38
Harrison, TaShae Variability of Soil Organic Matter 39
Henderson, Emily Estimating the Impacts of Nitrogen Oxide from Port Emissions on Air Quality in Hillsborough County, Florida
40
Isaacs ,Wainella Photocatalytic Oxidation of Model Cellular Membranes of E. coli
41
Jewell, Caleb Algae Productivity Rates in Aquaculture and Human Wastewater Using Bench‐scale Photobioreactors
42
Lee, Meg Life Cycle Analysis of Solar Assisted Biomass Gasification
43
Matus, Jillianne The Anthropological and Environmental Significance of Green Space in Rapid Urbanization in the Developing World City of Santa Cruz, Bolivia
44
Nafis, Heidi Ion Exchange Removal of Perchlorate and Nitrate from Groundwater
45
Index of Poster Presentations
NSF REU in Applied Physics
Presenter Title Page
Bell, Zephra Polypeptide Chirality Influences Multilayer Nanofilm Growth and Structure
47
Chambers, Christopher Developing a Procedure for the Characterization of Mechanical Properties of Collagen Gels
48
Demaske, Brian Development of EAM potentials for molecular dynamics simulations of metals at extreme conditions
49
Duscha, Jacob Growth and characterization of Ba8Ga16Ge30 type I clathrate thin films grown by pulsed laser deposition
50
Easley, Justin Electrochromic Properties of Single‐nanocrystalline Tungsten Oxide
51
Griffin, Jahnieka High yield Bottom‐up Syntheses of Thermoelectric Materials in Nanocrystalline Form
52
Iaizzi, Adam Ab‐initio study of folded armchair grapheme nanoribbons
53
Miller, Travis Growth of Graphene on Metal Substrates 54
Perry, Jennifer Molecular Dynamic Simulation of Oxidative Damage in Cell Membranes
55
Persichilli, Christopher Does Thioflavin‐T detect Critical Intermediates of Amyloid Fibril Formation by Lysozyme?
56
Rao, Advaith Characterizing surface segregation in Fe‐Ni nanoclusters using Monte Carlo simulations
57
Ross, Andrew First‐principles investigation of graphene‐metal interfaces
58
Todaro, Susanna Optical Design of a Robotic TV Camera for Minimally Invasive Abdominal Surgery
59
Trinh, Jennifer Organic Solar Cell Microarrays for Use in MEMS 60
Vande Kolk, Bryant J. Digital Gabor holography using partially spatially coherent light
61
Zaubi, Aaron Excitonic structure and polarization dependence of CdSe and PbSe quantum dots determined by single‐nanostructure laser spectroscopy
62
1
BIO SKETCHS & ABSTRACTS
2
REU in Computer Science and Engineering
REU in Computer Science and Engineering
3
Victoria Arendt
2. Abstract
Feature Extraction from Pre‐Therapy PET/CT Scans in Patients with Lung
Cancer
V. Arendt1, L. Hall2, D. Goldgof2
1 Duke University
2 Department of Computer Science and Engineering – University of South Florida
Keywords: Biomedical Image Analysis, Image Segmentation, Biomedical Imaging, Positron Emission
Tomography
This poster presents the strategies and algorithms used to segment and extract features from PET
(positron emission tomography) scans of lung cancer patients. It has been suggested that pre‐
therapy data (including quantitative imaging features available through CT and PET scans) of cancer
patients can be used to prospectively match patients to optimal therapeutic strategies. In order to
achieve this aim, we must first retrospectively compare existing imaging features to clinical
outcomes. Although many important features can be extracted from CT (computed tomography)
scans alone, PET scans are necessary to obtain a measure of metabolic activity, Standard Uptake
Value (SUV), which has been shown to correctly assess the efficacy of treatment in various studies.
Using Definiens – Life Sciences software, we wrote an algorithm to segment PET scans and identify
the tumor regions in order to perform feature extraction. This algorithm first segments the image by
combining pixels with similar brightness values and then identifies areas of high metabolic activity by
comparing the brightness of each object to the mean brightness of the entire image. From these
areas, the user can then manually select the tumor region and extract features from this region. This
algorithm allowed us to correctly identify tumor regions in 100% of the PET scans tested (14/14).
Future work includes coding an SUV feature and testing its predictive abilities by cross‐validation.
1. Bio Sketch
1.1 Home Institution: Duke University
1.2 Major: Biology and Computer Science
1.3 Classification: Junior
1.4 USF Advisor/Mentor: Lawrence Hall, Ph.D., Dmitry
Goldgof, Ph.D.
1.5 Professional Goals: PhD in Computational Biology
REU in Computer Science and Engineering
4
Sergio Andrés Beltrán
2. Abstract
Robotic Hands
Sergio Beltrán1, Yu Sun2
1Universidad Autónoma de Bucaramanga (Colombia)
2Department of Computer Science and Engineering, University of South Florida
Keywords: Robotic Hands, PWM board, Design, Finger.
The Robotic hands are becoming in a interesting field of study because every day there are more
applications and places where we can see it working, due to the forward motion of industry
applications increasingly require more skill and more efficient hands . The proposed method was to
evaluate the design to identify pre‐existing works and how it could get better, some improvements
were evaluated in the design and were simulated in SolidWorks (five fingers) , then based on the
requirements force of 20 N and move the finger at 15 RPM, single finger was decided to model and
do the tests to extrapolate to the others after that a USB PWM board were calculated and selected
to control it with the computer using a serial port, Servomotor was used with the right torque and
speed in each case so sensor to control the position wasn’t needed, the hand actuator is the motor
that moved fushing cable it was changed for Commercial Grade Nylon‐Coated SS Wire Rope 1X7
Strand, .006" ‐ .010" that provided more resistance, and the end the finger is able to grasp a key of
piano keyboard with the correct force and speed.
1. Bio Sketch
1.1 Home Institution: Universidad Autónoma de
Bucaramanga (Colombia)
1.2 Major: Mechatronics Engineering and
Energy Engineering
1.3 Classification: Junior
1.4 USF Advisor/Mentor: Yun Sun, Ph.D.
1.5 Professional Goals: Ms. C., Ph. D, owned a company, politics, teaching.
REU in Computer Science and Engineering
5
Christine Bringes
2. Abstract
Incorporating Micromouse Competition into Undergraduate Courses
C. Bringes, L. Palmer
Department of Computer Science and Engineering
Keywords: Micromouse competition, mobile robots, undergraduate curriculum
This paper outlines methods used to incorporate the IEEE Micromouse Competition into the
undergraduate curriculum at the University of South Florida as a final project for a course covering
techniques for controlling mobile robots. The Micromouse Competition requires the construction of
an autonomous robot that can first determine the shortest path to the end of a square maze, and
run the course in the shortest possible time. The goal of this project is to provide a hands‐on learning
opportunity that compliments the topics being taught in the course. This includes working with
microprocessors, writing algorithms, using and configuring motors, and interfacing with sensors. The
robot will be built using hardware based on a HC12 microprocessor, stepper motors, and short‐range
IR distance sensors. The software for the robots will be written using the CodeWarrior IDE using the
C programming language. By completing this task as part of the class curriculum, students can
connect the course material to a tangible project and augment the learning experience.
1. Bio Sketch 1.1 Home Institution: University of South Florida
1.2 Major: Computer Engineering
1.3 Classification: Senior
1.4 USF Advisor/Mentor: Luther Palmer, Ph.D.
1.5 Professional Goals: My short term career goal is to get
my Master’s Degree. After that, I
would like to continue pursuing a
career in the field of robotics,
although I am not sure if that will
take place in an industrial or an
academic setting.
REU in Computer Science and Engineering
6
Angel Calderón
2. Abstract Simulating Robotic Capabilities
A. Calderon, L. Palmer University Of South Florida, Department of Computer Science
Keywords: RobotBuilder, .NET Framework, Operating Systems, Visual Studio
The RobotBuilder software is a versatile program capable of simulating the building, testing and
redesigning of any robotic model without actually having to build it. This saves time and money
during the testing and redesigning phases by not expending resources to construct or reconstruct a
machine, and by simulating a multitude of physical factors and surroundings without creating or
sending the robot to these environments. For example, a device could be tested on the surface of
the moon, near an active volcano, or even in a burning building without the logistical headache!
However, it is not as simple as install, run, and have fun. Before this powerful software can be used
it needs to be properly updated in order to integrate it with whatever operating system the user has.
We used two different computers one with Vista and the other with Windows XP as their operating
systems. These two similar systems use different versions of the .NET Framework and therefore the
data libraries of Visual Studio were different. It took a great deal of work to translate between the
old and new interfaces, which had to be fully functional before use.
The real work began once the job of updating and testing the functionality of the software was
accomplished, and for us that meant taking an existing robot, known as the Micromouse, and
designing a program for it that could allow our mouse to find its way out of any maze. Because we
are trying to improve the capabilities of the robot not its physical design, the difficulties that we had
with this were in creating the algorithm to control its movements and decision‐making. Our ‘smart
mouse’ would need to be able to discern the layout of its environment and remember where it has
been in order to find the quickest way out.
1. Bio Sketch 1.1 Home Institution: University of South Florida 1.2 Major: Computer Science 1.3 Classification: Junior 1.4 USF Advisor/Mentor: Luther Palmer, Ph.D. 1.5 Professional Goals: I intend to apply my joy of programming
into a good career with a productive future. It is my goal to be the first in my family earn my doctorate in this expanding and important field. It is obvious that, in this age of information, computers and technology are benefiting people’s lives and continuing to improve the infrastructure of life, and I hope to one day be one of the people making those improvements.
REU in Computer Science and Engineering
7
Nickalaus Clark
2. Abstract
Automatic Red Tide Detection using MODIS Satellite Images and Machine
Intelligence
Nickalaus Clark, Lawrence O. Hall University of South Florida
Department of Computer Science
Keywords: Remote sensing, support vector machine
Abstract–Red tide can cause significant environmental and economic damage throughout the coastal
areas of the Gulf of Mexico where it is most prevalent. Rapid and inexpensive detection of red tide is
important to mitigate the threat it poses. In this paper, a support vector machine is trained and
tested based on both human expert evaluation of satellite images and ship‐obtained water samples.
The results from these experiments are analyzed in hopes of finding a statistically significant increase
in accuracy while training the support vector machine using ship data as opposed to human data.
1. Bio Sketch
1.1 Home Institution: University of South Florida
1.2 Major: Computer Science
1.3 Classification: Senior
1.4 USF Advisor/Mentor: Lawrence Hall, Ph.D.
1.5 Professional Goals: I plan to complete my Graduate studies at USF, and move on to develop new strategies in the field of Artificial Intelligence as it applies to the way humans interface with machines.
REU in Computer Science and Engineering
8
Osvaldo Mangual Rodriguez
2. Abstract
Medical Image Analysis for Microscopy Images
O. Mangual1, D. Goldgof2, L. Hall2
1 Polytechnic University of Puerto Rico
2 University of South Florida
Keywords: HSI Color Space, Stereologer, Stereology
Unbiased stereology is currently the most accurate quantification method for the analysis of
biological structures. Currently, this requires significant manual operation and, hence, has relatively
low throughput. This project consisted of implementing algorithms for image processing and analysis
in C++ to help in the automation of stereological processes. These algorithms will be evaluated and
considered for integration into Stereologer, which is a hardware‐software system for acquiring
images, and obtaining information from biological structures.
The ultimate goal of this project is to implement a set of functions or algorithms to automatically
identify, count, and get information about the cells and other structures in tissue samples on slides.
Color images will be used to better identify the structures. The algorithms are: Thresholding in HSI
Color Space, Fill Hole algorithm, Raster Scanning Algorithm for Connected Region Extraction, and
Color to Grayscale Conversion. Images from rat brains were acquired using Stereologer and
successfully processed and analyzed; initial results show improvement in the overall process. The
resulting images will be fed into a focusing detection algorithm.
1. Bio Sketch
1.1 Home Institution: Polytechnic University of Puerto
Rico
1.2 Major: Computer Engineering
1.3 Classification: Senior
1.4 USF Advisor/Mentor: Dmitry Goldgof, Ph.D., Lawrence
Hall, Ph.D.
1.5 Professional Goals: I want to go to graduate school
and get my master’s degree and
my PhD. Then I want to work in
the industry and start my own
business. At some point I would
like to go to the Academia and be
a professor.
REU in Computer Science and Engineering
9
Juan José Marrón Monteserín
2. Abstract
Design and development of a participatory sensing system using
location based information systems and sensor integration
Juan José Marrón1, Miguel A. Labrador2, Alfredo Perez2
1 Universidad de Oviedo, Oviedo, Asturias, Spain
2 Department of Computer Science and Engineering, University of South Florida
Keywords: Location‐based information system, GPS, visualization.
The number of cellular phones has increased in the past 15 years reaching five billion devices during
the current year 2010. Each day, these devices are more and more capable of collecting, classifying,
and transmitting information obtained by multiple sensors such as Global Positioning System (GPS)
receivers, accelerometers, and some others that can be attached to them via common
communication interfaces. Thanks to these new features, mobile phones can be considered mobile
sensing devices with the potential to provide information like never before to address large‐scale
societal problems. This project builds and demonstrates a general mobile information sensing system
that measures temperature, humidity, air quality, and other important variables, and shows the
readings as overlays in a Google map. With the collaboration or participation of all cellular phone
users, these variables can be measured and monitored in real‐time for global warming control and
pollution monitoring and control, as well as many other health‐related and location‐based
applications.
1. Bio Sketch
1.1 Home Institution: Universidad de Oviedo (Spain)
1.2 Major: Telecommunication Engineering
1.3 Classification: Senior
1.4 USF Advisor/Mentor: Miguel A. Labrador , Ph.D.
1.5 Professional Goals: To work in a mobile phone
network operator or in a mobile
phone e manufacturer company
REU in Computer Science and Engineering
10
Edwin M. Martínez Ávila
2. Abstract
Automatic Trail Mapping without Satellite Technology
E. Martinez1, L. Hall2, J. Ligatti2
1 University of Puerto Rico in Arecibo
2Department of Computer and Engineering, University of South Florida
Keywords: Trail Mapping, Mobile Phones, and Mobile Applications
Creating a map or determining a location without GPS can be a breakthrough in navigation
technology. The aim of this research is to make an application that can create an automatic trail
mapping without satellite technology. To develop this program we used a device that can determine
three kinds of data (direction, inclination, and distance) of a bicycle. This device has a compass to
determinate direction, an accelerometer, which is used for determining inclination, and a sensor
input to determinate distance/ speed. As a result of this research, we implemented the necessary
methods for the accelerometer, compass, saving the data in a file, and illustrating it in an interface.
1. Bio Sketch
1.1 Home Institution: University of Puerto Rico, Arecibo 1.2 Major: Computer Science 1.3 Classification: Senior1.4 USF Advisor/Mentor: Lawrence Hall, Ph.D., Jay Ligatti,
Ph.D. 1.5 Professional Goals: As professional goals, I would like to
do my PHD in one of different University in the USA, which is specializing in Engineering, Science and Mathematics. I would also continue doing research in the area of locations Base or networking. After graduating of my PHD I want to work in the industry.
REU in Computer Science and Engineering
11
DaShawn Matias
2. Abstract
Programming NXT Robots to Play Soccer
D. Matias1,3, D. Richardson1,3, K. Mendoza1,3, A. Weitzenfield3,4 1Tallahassee Community College
2Hillsborough Community College
3Department of Computer Science and Engineering, University of South Florida
4Autonomous Institute of Technology (ITAM), Mexico
Keywords: Artificial Intelligence, Robotics, NXT‐Robots
Asimo, BIG DOG, and Mr. Incredible are just a few of the names of the latest robots that are getting the spotlight in the technology world today. The question is what will these robots do for us and, is the money that is funded towards Robotics and Artificial Intelligence research being wasted? The answer to that question is no they are not a waste of money and robots do benefit human beings in a variety of ways. For instance, there are robots that assist doctors with certain types of surgery’s and operations (Da Vinci Robot).
The hardest task and our main goal in robotics are to program these machines to make decisions on their own like we as humans do. Our research objective using NXT‐Robots is to program these robots to play soccer, communicate with each other using Bluetooth, and then ultimately control all robots on the field using one main camera overlooking the soccer field. Using the RobotC software program, we can write commands that we want the robot to perform and download our file into the NXT‐Brick of the robot. Utilizing a simple step by step approach, our focus was to have the robot perform one task at a time and based on the situation, the robot will initiate another action or command after the task is completed.
1. Bio Sketch
1.1 Home Institution: Tallahassee Community College
1.2 Major: Computer Engineering
1.3 Classification: Junior
1.4 USF Advisor/Mentor: Alfredo Weitzenfeld, Ph.D.
1.5 Professional Goals: Software Engineering
REU in Computer Science and Engineering
12
Kenneth Mendoza
2. Abstract
Programming NXT Robots to Play Soccer
K. Mendoza1,3, D. Matias2,3, D. Richardson2,3, A. Weitzenfield3,4
1Hillsborough Community College
2Tallahassee Community College
3Department of Computer Science and Engineering, University of South Florida
4Autonomous Institute of Technology (ITAM), Mexico
Keywords: Artificial Intelligence, Robotics, NXT‐Robots
Asimo, BIG DOG, and Mr. Incredible are just a few of the names of the latest robots that are getting the spotlight in the technology world today. The question is what will these robots do for us and, is the money that is funded towards Robotics and Artificial Intelligence research being wasted? The answer to that question is no they are not a waste of money and robots do benefit human beings in a variety of ways. For instance, there are robots that assist doctors with certain types of surgery’s and operations (Da Vinci Robot).
The hardest task and our main goal in robotics are to program these machines to make decisions on their own like we as humans do. Our research objective using NXT‐Robots is to program these robots to play soccer, communicate with each other using Bluetooth, and then ultimately control all robots on the field using one main camera overlooking the soccer field. Using the RobotC software program, we can write commands that we want the robot to perform and download our file into the NXT‐Brick of the robot. Utilizing a simple step by step approach, our focus was to have the robot perform one task at a time and based on the situation, the robot will initiate another action or command after the task is completed.
1. Bio Sketch
1.1 Home Institution: Hillsborough Community College
1.2 Major: Computer Science & Engineering
1.3 Classification: Freshman
1.4 USF Advisor/Mentor: Alfredo Weitzenfeld, Ph.D.
1.5 Professional Goals: To be a space cowboy.
REU in Computer Science and Engineering
13
Schatzi Miranda
2. Abstract
Communications Protocol for Networked Appliances: Enabling Appliances to Schedule Tasks to Induce Peak Shifting S. Miranda1, K. Christensen2, A. Parisi2
1 University of Turabo
2University of South Florida
Keywords: Peak Shifting, Scheduling Appliances, Building Networks
Peak shifting is the re‐scheduling of tasks to a time when the electric demand is less and power is at
a lower cost, as incentivized by dynamic pricing established by the power company. The term task
relates to a power‐consuming job to be performed by an appliance. In order to achieve peak shifting,
we created a communications protocol that will keep all networked appliances informed of all events
that take place on a building’s local network. The protocol also communicates the power and energy
usage peak limitations provided by the power company. The communications protocol works by
sending a series of messages across the network. Each message carries key information used to
update energy usage and scheduled task information. These messages get sent across the network
to any appliance that requests them. The appliance can then process these messages and schedule a
task in a time that conforms to the energy and power peak limitations set by the power company
while at the same time aiming to reduce costs for the user. We will emulate our implementation in a
multiple computer system that will communicate using a common port and implement the protocol
through Windows Sockets using User Datagram Protocol. We will demonstrate information
exchange, storing, processing and the scheduling of tasks. Our system of communications coupled
with distributed scheduling allows for more control over a building’s power usage which will lead to
a reduction in peak demand and to lower electricity costs for the user.
1. Bio Sketch
1.1 Home Institution: Universidad del Turabo, Gurabo
P.R.
1.2 Major: Electrical Engineering
1.3 Classification: Junior
1.4 USF Advisor/Mentor: Ken Christensen, Ph.D.
1.5 Professional Goals: Complete a PHD in Electrical
Engineering with focus on
Communication Systems.
REU in Computer Science and Engineering
14
Larry Moore
2. Abstract
Synergy Networks and Visualization
Larry Moore, Xiaoning Qian
Department of Computer Science and Engineering
Keywords: Bioinformatics, Genes, Synergy, Entropy, Microarray, SNP, Cancer, Disease
Through the analysis of microarray data, we determine the epistatic effects of SNPs on the disease
development, specifically, we are using an ovarian cancer study from the Moffitt Cancer Center. We
compute the synergy between pairs of SNPs and create a synergy network. In this project, the
synergy network in the form of a graph can be used by researchers to discover the necessary
criterion for diagnosing a particular disease. We discuss our approach to developing this tool and
features, such as color mapping to aid visualization. Finally, we discuss the results that have been
confirmed by the Moffitt Cancer Center.
1. Bio Sketch
1.1 Home Institution: University of South Florida
1.2 Major: Computer Engineering
1.3 Classification: Senior
1.4 USF Advisor/Mentor: Xiaoning Qian, Ph.D.
1.5 Professional Goals: Graduate school
REU in Computer Science and Engineering
15
Christian E. Placeres Rodríguez
2. Abstract
An Android Application – Bluetooth Sensor Android Integration
C. Placeres1, M. Labrador2, S. Barbeau3
1 University of Turabo – Computer Engineering
2Engineering Department at the University of South Florida
3 The Center for Urban Transportation Research at the University of South Florida
Keywords: Android, Bluetooth, Sensor
As technology moves on and new things are developed, the ways of obtaining data of our daily
surroundings is often made easier. With just one click on your mouse or on your mobile phone
nowadays you can obtain the newspaper, weather information, or pretty much anything you might
want to browse on the web. What would you think if you could know how the area around you is
doing in terms of temperature, humidity, carbon dioxide, and so on, directly from a click on your
phone? With just one simple thing as opening the application you get the most recent data on a map
surrounding your area, wouldn’t you like this?
This project focuses on obtaining sensor data to an Android OS phone through Bluetooth connection
in which it receives all the data obtained from the surroundings and will then map an overlay of the
different readings as well as displaying the data obtained. This would mean that you would be able
to open the application and see the data analyzed and mapped for you to see it on the most up to
date map as well as being able to see how the data is represented by location.
1. Bio Sketch 1.1 Home Institution: Universidad del Turabo 1.2 Major: Computer Engineering 1.3 Classification: Junior 1.4 USF Advisor/Mentor: Miguel Labrador, Ph.D. 1.5 Professional Goals: Completing a bachelors and masters
in computer engineering, developing software for an easier understanding while aiding people with each step towards an efficient mobile software future. Also I look forward to learning more as I go and understanding more and more what every language in programming has to offer as well as working in a company or organization that will help me reach my goals and will allow me to learn from the world as I travel.
REU in Computer Science and Engineering
16
Demetrius Richardson
2. Abstact
Programming NXT Robots to Play Soccer
D. Richardson1,3, D. Matias1,3, K. Mendoza2,3, A. Weitzenfield3,4
1Tallahassee Community College
2Hillsborough Community College
3Department of Computer Science and Engineering, University of South Florida
4Autonomous Institute of Technology (ITAM), Mexico
Keywords: Artificial Intelligence, Robotics, NXT‐Robots
Asimo, BIG DOG, and Mr. Incredible are just a few of the names of the latest robots that are getting the spotlight in the technology world today. The question is what will these robots do for us and, is the money that is funded towards Robotics and Artificial Intelligence research being wasted? The answer to that question is no they are not a waste of money and robots do benefit human beings in a variety of ways. For instance, there are robots that assist doctors with certain types of surgery’s and operations (Da Vinci Robot).
The hardest task and our main goal in robotics are to program these machines to make decisions on their own like we as humans do. Our research objective using NXT‐Robots is to program these robots to play soccer, communicate with each other using Bluetooth, and then ultimately control all robots on the field using one main camera overlooking the soccer field. Using the RobotC software program, we can write commands that we want the robot to perform and download our file into the NXT‐Brick of the robot. Utilizing a simple step by step approach, our focus was to have the robot perform one task at a time and based on the situation, the robot will initiate another action or command after the task is completed.
1. Bio Sketch 1.1 Home Institution: Tallahassee Community College 1.2 Major: Computer Engineering 1.3 Classification: Sophomore 1.4 USF Advisor/Mentor: Alfredo Weitzenfeld, Ph.D. 1.5 Professional Goals: I want to do research with
microchips, I want to make microchips more efficient, and if possible make the processing faster with better analysis and better solutions to the user’s problems. To accomplish my goals I will obtain my PhD in Computer Hardware Engineering and Masters Degree in Electrical Engineering.
REU in Computer Science and Engineering
17
Emmanuel Rodríguez
2. Abstract
A Software Package for Automated Logic Reasoning
E. Rodriguez, H. Zheng
1University of South Florida
Department of Computer Science and Engineering
Keywords: And Inverter Graph, Automated Logic Reasoning, Digital Circuit, Hardware Verification,
Software
In order to thoroughly test a digital circuit design, every possible input combination must be checked
on the design against its specifications. However, for sequential circuits with a large of number of
inputs this method requires a significant amount of time. The development of a software package for
automated logic reasoning is our approach to reduce the amount of time required to verify a design.
Using our software package, a digital circuit design may be automatically tested against its
specifications. Rather than manipulating individual input vectors, the software package manipulates
sets of input vectors and design states, which are characterized by the Boolean functions. We chose
to use an And Inverter Graph (AIG) data structure to represent the Boolean functions, and have
implemented efficient algorithms for common Boolean logic operations based on this data structure.
For large designs the AIG may require a large amount of space because of redundancies. Therefore,
we must also reduce the data structure by minimizing and removing the redundant logic. Our goal is
to improve upon existing methods and create better algorithms in order to reduce the space and
time required for logic verification of digital designs.
1. Bio Sketch
1.1 Home Institution: University of South Florida
1.2 Major: Computer Science
1.3 Classification: Senior
1.4 USF Advisor/Mentor: Hao Zheng, Ph.D.
1.5 Professional Goals: Continue research on automated
logic reasoning in graduate school
and have the opportunity to apply
my experience in the real world.
REU in Computer Science and Engineering
18
Héctor A. Tosado Jiménez
2. Abstract
An Android Application – Text‐To‐Speech
H. Tosado1, S. Barbeau2
1 University of Puerto Rico – Department of Computer Engineering
2The Center for Urban Transportation Research at the University of South Florida
Keywords: Android, Text‐To‐Speech
Recently, the dangers of texting while driving has gained much attention, with recent studies stating
that the risk of someone who texts while driving being in a crash is 8 to 23 times greater than the
crash risk of someone who does not text while driving. In some states, including Florida, services
exist that will keep travelers informed of any traffic delays or accidents that may affect your travel.
However these services require a driver to open and read a text message which contributes to the
distracted driving problem. This action can be dangerous and goes against the No‐Texting‐While‐
Driving rule in many states.
This project focused on implementing intelligent software for cell phones that allows an application
to “speak” a message to an individual. These messages are only delivered to the user when they are
moving under a safe speed or when they are completely stopped. This reduces the amount of risk in
said service and at the same time allows the driver to receive the information without having to
interact with the mobile phone. An Android mobile phone application was implemented that
receives a UDP packet from the TRAC‐IT system, calculates the driver’s actual speed, and speaks the
message to the driver if they are traveling at a safe speed. This Android application also logs into the
TRAC‐IT server and records the travel path of the phone.
1. Bio Sketch
1.1 Home Institution: University of Puerto Rico
1.2 Major: Computer Engineering
1.3 Classification: Senior
1.4 USF Advisor/Mentor: Sean Barbeau, B.S.
1.5 Professional Goals: Achieve my Bachelors and Masters in Computer Engineering and then travel the world with different companies and be a tourist with a job. As to what that job can be; I’m up for trying anything a first time.
REU in Computer Science and Engineering
19
Khoa Tran
2. Abstract
GO‐Sync: A Framework to Synchronize Mapping Contributions from Online
Communities and Transit Agency Bus Stop Inventories
Khoa Tran1, Sean Barbeau2, Edward Hillsman2 1Department of Computer Science and Engineering
2The Center for Urban Transportation Research at the University of South Florida
Keywords: General Transit Feed Specification, OpenStreetMap, Location‐based services, bus stop,
transit, travel agency
Most geographic data (e.g. map data) is currently either locked into proprietary formats and systems
or under licensing restrictions. These limitations prevent people from sharing, viewing, updating this
data without permission from the owner or vendor, and also limit innovations in areas such as
location‐based services. Therefore, we need an open‐source and open‐data solution. General Transit
Feed Specification (GTFS) is a common format for public transportation agencies’ schedules and their
geographic information for bus stops. However, transit agencies struggle to maintain and update
these very large official datasets. Meanwhile, OpenStreetMap, an online free‐content repository of
geographic data driven by contributions from an online community, currently has little information
about public transportation schedules, especially in the United States, but it has a large number of
users willing to freely contribute their efforts to record and improve geographic data for their
communities. In this project, we create a tool for synchronizing transit data between the public
transportation agency’s official GTFS dataset and OpenStreetMap. The application therefore enables
public transportation agencies to upload data into OpenStreetMap, where the online community can
edit and correct the bus stop locations and amenities for their community. The application also
enables transit agencies to retrieve this updated data so they can improve their own datasets.
Successfully translating GTFS data into the OpenStreetMap format will facilitate over 110 transit
agencies across the U.S. to share their public‐domain data with each other, the community, as well
as software developers.
1. Bio Sketch
1.1 Home Institution: University of South Florida
1.2 Major: Computer Science
1.3 Classification: Senior
1.4 USF Advisor/Mentor: Sean Barbeau, B.S.
1.5 Professional Goals: Integrate information systems into daily
life, especially Location Based Services
20
REU in Sustainable Energy Alternatives and the Advanced Materials
REU Florida Georgia Louis Stokes Alliance for Minority Participation (FGLSAMP)
REU in Sustainable Energy Alternatives and the Advanced Materials
21
Christine Beazley
2. Abstract
‘Doctor Blade’ vs. Electrospray Deposition of Titanium Dioxide Nanoparticles for the Production of Dye Sensitized Solar Cells
C. Beazley1, E. Tridas2, R. Schlaf3 1 Georgia Institute of Technology Department of Civil Engineering
2 University of South Florida Department of Mechanical Engineering 3 University of South Florida Department of Electrical Engineering
Keywords: electrospray, doctor blade, titanium dioxide, dye sensitized, solar cell
Dye sensitized solar cells (max efficiency: ~11%) are cheap alternatives to silicon due to their
extremely low production costs, and are commonly deposited with TiO2 films via ‘doctor blade’
method. However, this research aims to prove that electrospray can be a competitive alternative to
‘doctor blade’ deposition. By establishing consistent 5‐10% efficiencies for the ‘doctor blade’
devices, the structures of the electrosprayed and ‘doctor blade’ devices may be compared, and
adjustments to the electrospray technique may follow. This will help develop optimal electrospray
deposition of 3D heterostructures for application in solar cell devices. To work towards this, films
were deposited by ‘doctor blade’ using 50μm thick tape applied in 1 to 3 layers and Ti‐Nanoxide HT‐L
paste applied in 25μL, 50μL, or 75μL quantities. Samples were sintered at 500°C for 1 hour. Films
using 1 layer of tape and 25μL or 50μL of paste remained laminated to the substrate, while most
others were uneven and cracked. These laminated films displayed efficiencies of 0.27% and 0.56%,
respectively. Samples with 1 layer of tape and 25μL of paste were sintered at lower temperatures
(120°C, 215°C, 310°C, 405°C) for 1 hour. These efficiencies were (0.03%, 0.03%, 0.16%, 0.14%),
respectively. The optimal sintering temperature (≥500°C) can be applied to electrospray deposition
sintering. Next, progress towards higher ‘doctor blade’ efficiencies will occur, along with movement
towards an entirely electrosprayed solar cell. The optimal characteristics of ‘doctor blade’
deposition structures will then be used to adjust electrospray techniques in order to improve
electrospray deposition efficiencies.
1. Bio Sketch 1.1 Home Institution: Georgia Institute of Technology 1.2 Major: Civil Engineering 1.3 Classification: Senior 1.4 USF Advisor/Mentor: Rudy Schlaf, Ph.D.1.5 Professional Goals: I am considering the Master’s
International Program with the Peace Corps, and am currently looking into other graduate school opportunities. I hope to work in water systems, sanitation, or sustainable energy following graduate school, and I would love the opportunity to travel or live abroad at some point during or following graduate school.
REU in Sustainable Energy Alternatives and the Advanced Materials
22
Jeremiah Browne
2. Abstract
Conductive Nanocomposite Polymers for Supercapacitor Application
J. Browne1, H. Gomez2, M. K. Ram2, A. Kumar2
1 Mechanical Engineering, University of Florida (Gainesville) 2Nanotechnology Research and Education Center, University of South Florida (Tampa)
Keywords: Battery, Capacitor, Polymer, Energy
Industry as well as research centers around the globe are coping to address the world‐wide energy
demand, and competing with all available alternate technologies. In fact, the growing demand of
portable systems and hybrid electric vehicles, memory protection in CMOS, logic circuit, VCRs, CD
players, PCs, UPS in security alarm systems, remote sensing, smoke detectors, etc. require high
power in short‐term pulses. So, this research looks into high reversible capacity storage systems to
meet that demand. Organic polymers have been shown to have a large capacity for allowing
electrochemical reactions due to the wide range in which such reactions can occur. Due to the
versatility of such polymers we are able to research their uses in capacitor and rechargeable battery
applications. The novel synthesized organic nanocomposite polymers such as graphene‐poly(ortho‐
anisidine) (G‐POAS) and graphene‐polyaniline (G‐PANI) offer a solution to problem for the fabrication
of supercapacitors. The G‐PANI and G‐POAS nanocomposite materials were synthesized using the
chemical oxidative precipitation technique. The nanocomposite polymers were characterized using
Raman, x‐ray, SEM, TEM and cyclic voltammetric techniques. The supercapacitors were fabricated
using G‐PANI in N‐methyl pyrrolidinone and G‐PANI‐nafion, G‐POAS‐Nmethyl 2 pyrolodinone on
graphite electrodes. A specific capacitance of 300 to 500 F/g at a current density of 0.1A/g was
observed over G‐PANI nanocomposite material. We have aimed at tailoring properties optimization
of the proposed capacitors through optimization of their components and packaging towards
qualification for supercapacitor applications.
1. Bio Sketch
1.1 Home Institution: University of Florida
1.2 Major: Mechanical Engineering
1.3 Classification: Junior
1.4 USF Advisor/Mentor: Ashok Kumar, Ph.D.
1.5 Professional Goals: Develop advanced materials and
methods through research; build
affordable high quality
sustainable structures for people
to inhabit.
REU in Sustainable Energy Alternatives and the Advanced Materials
23
Justin Carter
2. Abstract
Cocrystal‐Controlled Synthesis of Imide Molecules for Generation of Metal Organic Materials
Justin Carter, Michael J. Zaworotko, Jason Perman
Department of Chemistry, University of South Florida
Keywords: Metal‐Organic Materials (MOMs), X‐ray diffraction, Hydrogen storage
Cocrystal‐controlled solid‐state synthesis of imides occurs after heating a new phase formed from an
anhydride and amine to the condensation product. Two anhydrides, 3,3’,4,4’ biphenyltetra‐
carboxylic dianhydride (BPPDA) and 3,3’,4,4’ benzophenonetetracarboxylic dianhydride (BPTCDA),
were combined with various amines. The amines included are 3‐aminobenzoic acid (3ABA), 4‐
aminobenzoic acid (4ABA), 5‐aminoisophthalic acid (5ABDC), and 5‐amino‐2,4,6,triiodoisophthalic
acid (TIABDC). Grinding is an eco‐friendly procedure compared to refluxing in organic solvents. After
the dry grind is complete the product was heated at an experimentally determined temperature that
was found using differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and thermal gravimetric analysis (TGA). The
imides are then reacted with different transition metals using various synthetic conditions.
Conditions included a molar ratio of metal to imide of 2:1 where 0.01 mmol of M(NO3)2•XH2O (M =
Cu, Zn, Co, Ni, X=2‐6) was reacted with 0.005 mmol of the imide. Pyridine, 2‐6 Lutidine, and 3‐5
Lutidine were the bases used to help deprotonate the carboxylic acid and were in quantities of 0.02
mmol for each corresponding reactions, including 500 µL of guest solvents. The samples were then
heated at 85C, 105C, and 115C for 24 hours. At each temperature the samples were examined for
single crystal formation. The main purpose of this research was to develop crystals in hope for the
generation of Metal‐Organic Materials (MOMs). Crystals are then characterized by single crystal X‐
ray and powder X‐ray diffractions techniques. Surface area and hydrogen sorption were then
evaluated. Future research will seek to develop MOMs that have large hydrogen storage capacity.
1. Bio Sketch
1.1 Home Institution: University of Arkansas
1.2 Major: Mechanical Engineering
1.3 Classification: Senior
1.4 USF Advisor/Mentor: Michael Zaworotko, Ph.D.
1.5 Professional Goals: To become a certified
professional engineer and
business owner.
REU in Sustainable Energy Alternatives and the Advanced Materials
24
Arelys Colon
2. Abstract
Growth of Silica Nanowires using Pd, Au, and in seed layers for Cancerous
Cells Detection for Biological MEMS Sensor Devices
Arelys Colon1, Al‐Aakhir A . Rogers2, Shekhar Bhansali2
1University of Puerto Rico‐Mayagüez
2 Bio‐MEMS and Microsystems Research Laboratory, Department of Electrical Engineering, University
of South Florida
Keywords: Nanowires Growth, Cancerous Cells Detection
The use of nanowires for the electrochemical sensor increases the surface area, in which
ultrasensitive detection and accurate measurement of biologically relevant molecules are able to be
detected. Our novel approach towards manufacturing nanowires in site specific locations is the
focus of this research.
The growth of silica nanowires enhances the signal capture for determining and differentiating
between cancerous and non‐cancerous cells. If we add Nanowires, increases the surface area and
more cells can be placed on the sample. If we have more cells on a sample, improve the signal for
determining between cancerous and non‐cancerous cells.
1. Bio Sketch 1.1 Home Institution: University of Puerto Rico, Mayagüez
Campus 1.2 Major: Electrical Engineering 1.3 Classification: Junior1.4 USF Advisor/Mentor: Shekhar Bhansali, Ph. D. 1.5 Professional Goals: When I finish my Bachelor’s Degree, I
would like to obtain my Master’s
Degree. If not, I hope that I will find a
good job in a place where I can
develop and implement my skills and
abilities in my profession.
REU Florida Georgia Louis Stokes Alliance for Minority Participation
25
Justin Hinson
2. Abstract
Ultrasound Diagnostics of Chemical Mechanical Polishing Pads
Justin Hinson, Joe Bonivel, Ashok Kumar
University of South Florida
Department of Mechanical Engineering
Keywords: Ultrasoundic transmission, CMP (Chemical Mechanical Planarization), Polyurethane pads,
Material removal rate, Surface roughness
The need for a nondestructive characterization of chemical mechanical planarization has become
apparent in recent years. Uncontrollable variations in removal rate and planarization results from
pad to pad are creating difficulties in optimizing procedures. Ultrasonic transmissions tests were
done to give an accurate model of the industrial chemical mechanical polishing (CMP) pads and to
optimize the removal rate during polishing and the life expectancy of the pad. This process is used
only used because it is a nondestructive way of characterizing the CMP pads but also to give a true
reading of the density of the pads. Modeling of the pads has been done by examining three different
types of six inch pads, (IC1000, IC1400 and RD2003), each of which has different mechanical
properties that yield various removal rates and life expectancies. The UST tests were run as received,
post conditioning, and post polishing to determine the aforementioned effects on the removal rate
and life expectancy. Result indicate that the density and surface roughness are increased after
conditioning and are sustained during polishing experiments until on average 25 polishes at which
time the pads must be replaced. This data helps to indicate to the deterioration of the pad and
variations in planarization results. Further analysis indicates that polishing within the sustainable
period optimizes the removal rate and sample surface planarity.
1. Bio Sketch
1.1 Home Institution: University of South Florida
1.2 Major: Mechanical Engineering
1.3 Classification: Senior
1.4 USF Advisor/Mentor: Ashok Kumar, Ph.D.
1.5 Professional Goals: My goal is to graduate with
my mechanical engineering
degree and join a company
like Boeing to work with
aircrafts.
REU Florida Georgia Louis Stokes Alliance for Minority Participation
26
Troy Mobley
2. Abstract
An Alternative Small‐Signal Diode Modeling Parameter Extraction Technique
Troy Mobley II, Olawale Adebimpe Ajayi, Jing Wang, Gokhan Mumcu
University of South Florida
The Center for Wireless and Microwave Information Systems, Department of Electrical Engineering
Keywords: Extracting Parameter, Impedance, Rectenna, Diode Modeling
A new method is presented that allows the extraction of diode intrinsic model parameter from the
measurement of extrinsic forward, backward I‐V and scattering parameter characteristics. This is
done independently of the parasitic parameters that might be present either in series or parallel with
the device. The extraction is performed from the optimization of the diode data measured. From the
measured I‐V curve, small signal was derived; this aided the derivation of the approximate value of
the diode junction series resistance. With the diode measured scattering data loaded to optimization
function of ADS, the match of the curve produce the parameter of the junction as well as
independent parasitic. This process is repeated for more than one bias diode to ascertain the
findings.
1. Bio Sketch
1.1 Home Institution: University of South Florida
1.2 Major: Electrical Engineering
1.3 Classification: Junior
1.4 USF Advisor/Mentor: Jing Wang, Ph.D. Gokhan
Mumcu , Ph.D.
1.5 Professional Goals: To serve in the United States Air Force, obtain my M.S. in Electrical Engineering, and then own a small company in RF/wireless/microwave systems.
REU Florida Georgia Louis Stokes Alliance for Minority Participation
27
Jasmine Pearcey
2. Abstract
Developing a Biosensor Utilizing Surface Acoustic Wave Devices
Jasmine Pearcey, Mandek Richardson, Venkat Bhethanabotla
University of South Florida
Department of Chemical and Biomedical Engineering
Keywords: Surface Acoustic Wave (SAW), shear horizontal, lithography
The focus of this research is to create a Shear Horizontal ‐Surface Acoustic Wave device with a sensor
that can detect certain biomarkers in a given substance like blood or urine. In order to successfully
test biomolecules with a surface acoustic wave device an appropriate package needed to be
designed that would interface the sensor with outside electronics and incorporate microfluidics to
deliver fluid samples to the sensing surface. In order to create the package experience with AutoCAD
and SolidWorks was utilized to help make the design layouts that would be implemented in package
fabrication. As the work progressed several design iterations were performed until a final design
was implemented. In addition, much training at the Nanomaterials Nanomanufacturing Research
Lab was required to learn lithographic techniques used to make SAW devices.
1. Bio Sketch 1.1 Home Institution: University of South Florida1.2 Major: Chemical Engineering 1.3 Classification: Senior 1.4 USF Advisor/Mentor: Venkat Bhethanabotla, Ph.D. 1.5 Professional Goals: I want to enroll in graduate school
to obtain a Master’s in Biomedical Engineering with a concentration in Tissue/Genetic Engineering. I would like to work for Johnson & Johnson, Proctor & Gamble, or a similar company as a researcher and developer in consumer products. I am also interested in working with companies that engage in stem cell research such as Geron, Gelera, and BioTransplant.
REU in Sustainable Energy Alternatives and the Advanced Materials
28
Ismael Rios
2. Abstract
Twin Rotor Micro‐Turbine
Ismael Rios1, Henry Cabra2, Sylvia W. Thomas2
1 Autonoma de Occidente University, Department of Mechatronic Engineering, Advance Materials for
Micro and Nanotechnology Research Group (Colombia)
2Department of Electrical Engineering, University of South Florida
Keywords: Micro turbine, Micro generators, Venturi, Computer fluid Dynamics (CFD) analysis, Bio‐
Power
A novel design of micro turbine is presented in this document together with a CFD simulation and
fast 3D prototyping model. A twin rotor micro turbine is presented in this document to validate its
applicability in different fields such as Biomedical, military equipment. The advantages of the
proposed model are decreased Rotor‐Holder rotary friction and low pressure drop. The drop of
pressure is the hardest and more important variable to handle due to the heart’s pumping
conditions. The reduced friction between Rotor and Holder allowed taking advantage of the low
head pressure flows. Simulations are based in 15 and 30 dual rotors blade models enclosed in a
Venturi type Holder.
The first sizing approach allowed us to prototyped it using Benchman’s MX CNC Machining Center
and the Dimension SST 768 3D Printer from Industrial and Management VirtualMDLab USF which
allowed us to compare theoretical calculations with practical results for future redesigns. This project
is part of the research of Advance Material Bio & Interface Research AMBIR USF group and the
objective of this document is to present the turbine’s CAD design, first approach simulation analysis
and a rapid prototyping.
1. Bio Sketch
1.1 Home Institution: Autonoma de Occidente University
(Colombia)
1.2 Major: Mechatronic Engineering
1.3 Classification: Senior
1.4 USF Advisor/Mentor: Sylvia Thomas, Ph.D.
1.5 Professional Goals: I would like to continue my studies in
MEMS applying for an MSc, or PhD. In
any field of Nanotechnology.
REU Florida Georgia Louis Stokes Alliance for Minority Participation
29
Yohannes Samuel
2. Abstract
A Compact Reconfigurable Channel Emulator Chamber for Multipath Frequency Measurements
Yohannes Samuel, James Cooper, Thomas Weller University of South Florida
The Center for Wireless and Microwave Information Systems, Department of Electrical Engineering
Keywords: CRCEC, Antenna, Wireless systems
The Compact Reconfigurable Channel Emulator Chamber (CRCEC) is a 3’ x 3’ x 2’ table top
instrument. This tool provides a condensed environment to test and observe an electronic signal
during severe multi‐path channeling. There are several ways this chamber creates its multitude of
various channels, beginning with the highly reflective (aluminum) walls. Another highlight to this
reverberation chamber is a “stirrer blade”, which can configure over 400 positions. This blade greatly
increases the variation of paths the signal can travel. This chamber has a component augmented that
allows a portion of the transmitted signal to be introduced to time delay that causes further
interference. The delay can range from 0‐75 nanoseconds. There are eight electronically‐controlled
interference antennas transmitting signals and one receiving antenna. The chamber allows the ability
to observe wireless systems under multi channel situations in a compact atmosphere and produces
swift responses. The CRCEC saves an immense amount of time and money by giving the researcher
the ability to test a range of systems. The dynamic range of this chamber can test a given schematic
in extreme scenarios, and thus circumventing the need to create costly individual configurations to
test desired systems.
1. Bio Sketch 1.1 Home Institution: University of South Florida 1.2 Major: Electrical Engineering 1.3 Classification: Senior 1.4 USF Advisor/Mentor: Thomas Weller, Ph.D. 1.5 Professional Goals: I am currently a senior in Electrical
Engineering. My goals are not only to keep up with current technology but to help pioneer more advanced and efficient forms of communication. In conjunction with my studies, I am working with the Center for Wireless and Microwave Information Systems (WAMI) and wish to continue into my graduate work. I believe this is an era shifting towards wireless communications and many other forms of wireless applications, and I aspire to help spearhead this movement thru my new service to country.
REU in Sustainable Energy Alternatives and the Advanced Materials
30
Maria Sanchez
2. Abstract
Structure‐Function Relations of Pd Nanoparticles for Fuel Cell Electrocatalysis María Sanchez, Selasi Blavo, John N. Kuhn
University of South Florida, Department of Chemical and Biomedical Engineering
Keywords: Palladium, Nanoparticles, Electrocatalysts, Proton Exchange Membrane Fuel Cell, Electrochemical System
This work provides a study of palladium‐based electrocatalysts for proton exchange membrane fuel
cells (PEMFCs). This study addresses the limitations (efficiency and cost) of Pt as a catalyst in
PEMFCs. Increasing the electrocatalytic oxygen reduction activity while decreasing the Pt loading
would greatly enhance the development of PEMFCs. The periodic proximity of Pd and Pt suggests a
similar trend in catalytic properties. At a fraction of the cost of Pt, Pd provides a potentially viable
electrocatalytic alternative for PEMFC applications and this provides the impetus for our work. The
systematic examination of structure‐electrocatalytic properties in monodispersed Pd nanoparticles
will involve synthesis, characterization and electrochemistry testing. Morphologically controlled Pd
nanopartticles, of different varieties, were synthesized and studied electro catalytically for oxygen
reduction. Morphology is controlled through a sequential addition technique of three different
reagents. The reagents include K2PdCl4 (precursor), cetyltrimethylammonium bromide (surfactant),
and ascorbic acid (reducing agent). By changing the injection sequence of reductant and surfactant;
Cubic, multi‐armed, and dentritic Pd nanoparticles are selectivity obtained. Characterization of the
nanoparticles was carried out using techniques; including Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM),
and X‐Ray Diffraction (XRD). Oxygen reduction reaction, ORR, experiments were implemented using
a three‐electrode electrochemical cell set‐up. The electrodes consist of a reference electrode
(saturated calomel electrode), a counter electrode (Pt wire), and a working electrode (ring disk
electrode). Through the current that was generated, cyclic voltametry data is collected through a
software interface, where the electrocatalytic properties of the material can be evaluated and
further studies performed.
1. Bio Sketch 1.1 Home Institution: University of South Florida 1.2 Major: Chemical Engineering 1.3 Classification: Senior 1.4 USF Advisor/Mentor: John N. Kuhn, Ph.D. 1.5 Professional Goals: My current goal is to complete my B.S.
degree. After that, I plan to complement my academics with exposure in nanomaterials & nanotechnology research. By transitioning to graduate school and completing my Biomedical M.S. degree, I can specialize in the field of nanomedicine. I am interested in making contributions towards the improvement of cancer research and novel therapies.
REU Florida Georgia Louis Stokes Alliance for Minority Participation
31
Hayde Silva
2. Abstract
Variation in Microneedle Geometry to Increase Shear Strength
Hayde Silva, Puneet Khanna, Shekhar Bhansali
Bio‐MEMS and Microsystems Research Laboratory, Department of Electrical Engineering
Keywords: Microneedles; DRIE; Microfluidics; Lab‐on‐a‐Chip; Bio‐MEMS
This research aims to validate the effect of geometrical variations on the fracture strength of hollow
silicon microneedles. Needle failure due to axial and shear loads may be due to heterogeneous peak
stresses within the bulk material. Analytical determination of physical usage limits of microneedles
can be misleading, as beam fracture models do not translate well to the micro‐scale. Needle failure
due to breakage can generally attributed to shear forces. In the study, 35 and 36 gauge hollow
microneedles with a conventional circular lumen and those with enhanced ‘letter I’ shaped lumen
geometry were fabricated. Due to their geometry, the ‘I’ shaped needles have a higher second
moment of inertia, which leads to higher strength. The fracture limits of these needles due to shear
forces were quantified. Average shear fracture limits of 36 gauge needles was 36.51 gf for circular
geometry, while for the ‘I’ shaped needles it was 96.64 gf along the lateral direction. For 35 gauge
needles the average fracture limits were 79.9 gf for circular needles, and 148.65 gf along the lateral
direction for the enhanced geometry needles. Along the weaker axis, the enhanced geometry
resulted in marginally lower strength than the circular counterparts for the 35 gauge needles, while
it appreciably increased for the 36 gauge needles. The effect of geometry on shear strength was
significantly higher for smaller microneedles.
1. Bio Sketch
1.1 Home Institution: University of South Florida
1.2 Major: Electrical Engineering
1.3 Classification: Senior
1.4 USF Advisor/Mentor: Shekhar Bhansali, Ph.D.
1.5 Professional Goals: My short term professional goal is to complete my bachelor’s and master’s degree in Electrical Engineering. Once I graduate, I will like to pursue a career in the MEMS field. And use my skills to build more efficient medical devices at a nanoscale level.
REU in Sustainable Energy Alternatives and the Advanced Materials
32
Curtis Thompson
2. Abstract
Morphology and Surface Reactivity of Pd Nanoparticles
Curtis Thompson, Selma Hokenek, John Kuhn
University of South Florida
Department of Chemical and Biomedical Engineering
Keywords: Nickel, Palladium, Nanoparticles, Reforming, Morphology, Catalyst, Catalysis, Surface
Sites.
The increasing need for renewable energy sources has lead to the development of nanoscale
catalysts, composed of a wide variety of different metals and oxides. In our study we investigate the
fabrication of size and shape‐controlled palladium (Pd) nanocrystals for use in methane reforming.
The size of Pd nanocrystals can be controlled by the ratio of Pd precursors used in polyol synthesis
because Pd2+ precursor, which nucleates faster, yields smaller particles than Pd4+ precursor. The
shapes of the nanoparticles are controlled using bromide ions in solution. X‐ray diffraction (XRD) and
transmission electron microscopy (TEM) were used to characterize the particles made. Future work
will include the use of gas chromatography (GC) and mass spectrometry (MS) to characterize the
activity and selectivity of the fabricated Pd nanocatalyst, and correlate the results with the results on
size and shape already obtained.
1. Bio Sketch 1.1 Home Institution: University of South Florida
1.2 Major: Chemical Engineering
1.3 Classification: Senior
1.4 USF Advisor/Mentor: John Kuhn, Ph.D.
1.5 Professional Goals: Obtain a Master degree and/or Ph D, Work
for NASA for a minimum of five years,
Research in the field of renewable energy
sources, Write a book, Develop software to
interest children in the field of science that
will teach the basics of physics and
chemistry in a fun and understandable way,
Teach at a respected University.
REU in Sustainable Energy Alternatives and the Advanced Materials
33
Cherita Young
2. Abstract
Analysis of Fischer‐Tropsch liquid fuels through Gas Chromatography
Cherita Young1, W. Bosshart2, J. T. Wolan2
1San Jose State University
2Department of Chemical and Biomedical Engineering
Keywords: Fischer‐Tropsch Synthesis, gas chromatography, biofuel
In this work, qualitative and quantitative gas chromatographic (GC) analysis of biomass derived liquid
hydrocarbon fuels produced via Fischer–Tropsch synthesis (FTS) are presented. FTS is at the core of
the gas‐to‐liquids processes which have recently received a renewed interest as a versatile catalytic
route for producing high quality ultra‐clean fuels from synthesis gas or syngas (CO + H2). This interest
is mainly driven by the increasingly stringent environmental legislation on transportation fuels and
the possibility of renewable biomass sources with independence from the petroleum supply. Of
particular interest is the Fischer–Tropsch‐derived (or synthetic) diesel fuel, which displays
substantially higher cetane number (typically above 70) than that obtained in conventional refineries
from crude oil while being virtually free of environmentally harmful sulphur. An Agilent 6890N GC
with a simulated distillation capillary column was used to identify the fuel product components,
relative concentrations and % conversion. These results are then utilized for optimization of the
catalyst and reaction parameters to produce paraffinic hydrocarbon fuels in the desired diesel
fraction range of C11 – C20.
1. Bio Sketch
1.1 Home Institution: San Jose State University
1.2 Major: Chemical Engineering
1.3 Classification: Senior
1.4 USF Advisor/Mentor: John Wolan, Ph.D.
1.5 Professional Goals: I plan to pursue a Ph.D. in
engineering and continue on to
work in the Research and
Development sector in the
Alternative Energy Industry.
34
REU in Tampa Interdisciplinary Environmental Research
REU in Tampa Interdisciplinary Environmental Research
35
Lucas Ackerknecht
2. Abstract
Polybrominated Diphenyl Ethers in Wastewater
L. Ackerknecht1, F. Jawad2, K. Siegel2
1Cornell University
2College of Public Health, University of South Florida
Keywords: Polybrominated diphenyl ethers, wastewater treatment, endocrine disrupting chemicals
Polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) are commonly used flame‐retardants that are now
ubiquitous environmental contaminants. PBDEs are of major concern due to their neurotoxic and
endocrine disrupting effects, as well as their ability to bioaccumulate in the environment.
Wastewater treatment plants are one source of PBDEs to the environment through their discharge
of effluent and land application of sewage sludge. Effluent and sludge were collected and analyzed
for PBDEs at the Howard F. Curren wastewater treatment plant in Tampa, Florida to determine the
extent of PBDE wastewater contamination and thus used as a proxy to determine PBDE exposure in
Tampa Bay residents.
1. Bio Sketch
1.1 Home Institution: Cornell University
1.2 Major: Natural Resources
1.3 Classification: Junior
1.4 USF Advisor/Mentor: Foday Jawad, Ph.D.
1.5 Professional Goals: Environmental Law
REU in Tampa Interdisciplinary Environmental Research
36
Barbara Araneda
2. Abstract
Student, Community, and City Working Partnerships for Stormwater Pond Maintenance
Barbara Araneda1, Maya A. Trotz2 1Civil and Environmental Engineering, University of Florida 2Civil and Environmental Engineering, University of South Florida
Keywords: Urban stormwater runoff, Non‐point source pollution, Water quality monitoring, Environmental awareness education, Community outreach
Unregulated, non‐point source stormwater runoff is a major pollutant contributor to coastal water
bodies, rivers, and lakes in urban areas. Despite the availability of educational media regarding
stormwater runoff, stormwater ponds, and steps individuals can take to reduce pollutant loads, a
significant percentage of the population remains unaware of the environmental and health benefits
stormwater ponds provide. In this project, educators, city, and community organizations in
Hillsborough County, Tampa were contacted for assistance in providing workshops and materials for
a student‐run, water quality monitoring study of 12 county Adopt‐A‐Ponds and 3 city managed East
Tampa ponds. The main objective of this project is to establish a baseline water quality data set
which K6‐12 students can update and manage while providing environmental education and service
to their communities. The baseline water quality data was obtained using a Quanta multimeter
probe (pH, DO (mg/L), temperature (◦C). turbidity (NTU), and salinity (mS/cm)), membrane filter
tests for total coliforms, and an Atomic Absorption Spectrometer for heavy metals (Cu, Pb, As). K9‐12
curriculum is being developed that focuses on designing, proposing, and implementing site specific
sustainable solutions such as low impact development, best management practices, and
phytoremediation floating islands.
1. Bio Sketch 1.1 Home Institution: University of Florida 1.2 Major: Environmental Engineering 1.3 Classification: Junior 1.4 USF Advisor/Mentor: Maya Trotz, Ph.D. 1.5 Professional Goals: PhD. I am interested in
Environmental Engineering, Green Chemistry, Materials Engineering, Urban Planning and Landscape Architecture. I want to work in developing communities implementing small‐scale sustainable systems, and in urban areas creating ways to maximize green spaces and urban gardening. I also want to become LEED certified.
REU in Tampa Interdisciplinary Environmental Research
37
Hildamarie Cáceres
2. Abstract
Anaerobic biodegradation of landfill leachate
Hildamarie Cáceres1, Anh Do2, Daniel Yeh2
1University of Puerto Rico at Humacao 2 Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, University of South Florida
Keywords: Landfill, pre‐treatment, leachate, Ultrafiltration, Micro filtration, membrane, anaerobic,
biodegradation
Landfilling has become the most common and socially accepted way to dispose municipal wastes.
Generation of leachate due to rainwater percolation through the wastes has become a major
environmental concern. Landfill leachate contains high concentration of organic and inorganic
contaminants which can harm the environment and species health. This research was undertaken to
study landfill leachate treatment by anaerobic processes and investigate some filtration methods as
pretreatment in order to enhance the biodegradation of leachate in anaerobic processes. Different
sizes of filters range from Coffee filter size to Microfiltration membrane (MF) size (0.1µm) and Ultra
filtration (UF) membrane size (0.01µm) were tested. The MF and UF experiment were conducted by
a cross flow membrane system with dual membrane units. Parameters such as pressure, flow rate
were collected by an acquisition box (HOBO) which was connected to a computer. Then the
pretreated (filtered) leachate was transferred to series of serum bottles to test the biodegradability
and COD, NH4+, TS, TSS, TOC, TN removal efficiency of anaerobic processes to each type of
pretreated leachate.
1. Bio Sketch
1.1 Home Institution: University of Puerto Rico, Humacao
1.2 Major: Microbiology
1.3 Classification: Junior
1.4 USF Advisor/Mentor: Daniel Yeh, Ph.D.
1.5 Professional Goals: I want to go to graduate school and
get a PhD in Microbiology, or in a
related science that will keep my
interest. I am willing to work in
academia or industry.
REU in Tampa Interdisciplinary Environmental Research
38
Kassandra Costa
2. Abstract
The Effects of Soil Aging on the Extraction of Pentachlorophenol (PCP) from
Contaminated Soil
Kassandra Costa1, Jeffrey Cunningham2, Claire Osborn2
1 Brown University, Department of Geological Sciences
2University of South Florida, Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering
Keywords: Soil remediation, Extraction, Dechlorination
Pentachlorophenol contaminated soil poses a significant hazard both to human health and the
environment. Attempts at remediation using biodegradation have been limited by resource and time
constraints. This project is a small part of a larger initiative, called REACH (remedial extraction and
catalytic hydrodehalogenation), to design a sustainable, green technology to remediate PCP‐
contaminated soil. Previous work in solvent extraction has been inconclusive on whether or not PCP
can become irreversibly bound to soil with time. The objective of this study was to determine the
effects of soil aging on the extractability of PCP from contaminated soil. PCP was extracted from the
soil using the shaker method and analyzed on a gas chromatograph. Present results were compared
to past results to detect any differences due to aging.
1. Bio Sketch
1.1 Home Institution: Brown University
1.2 Major: Geochemistry
1.3 Classification: Junior
1.4 USF Advisor/Mentor: Jeffrey Cunningham, Ph.D.
1.5 Professional Goals: Graduate School
REU in Tampa Interdisciplinary Environmental Research
39
TaShae Harrison
2. Abstract Variability of Soil Organic Matter
TaShae Harrison1, David Lewis2 1Langston University
2Integrative Biology, College of Arts and Sciences, University of South Florida
Keywords: Soil organic matter, decomposition, moisture, topographic sequence, wetland
Soils have received attention in terms of the roles they play in tempering the effects of elevated
carbon dioxide emission and its association with global warming. Soil organic matter represents a
large stock of carbon and nitrogen storage, more than in biomass and aquatic systems. It has an
impact on greenhouse gases and the leaching of nutrients in the soil to different water systems, such
as groundwater systems, rivers, etc. The continual addition of decaying plant debris on the soil
surface helps contribute to the biological activity and the carbon cycling process taking place in the
soil. Shedding of biomass from plants is one important factor for decomposition rates, like foliage
decomposing better when compared with pine needles. The other important factor is moisture
content because it promotes plant growth, and it affects the heterotrophic microorganisms needed
for further breakdown. Organic matter variability was tested in three different ways. The samples
were taken from the University of South Florida’s Ecological Research Area. The first experiment
involved organic matter among a moisture gradient along a topographic sequence characterized by
different plants, such as upland versus wetland plants. Four toposequence positions were identified
and within each position sources of variability caused by vegetation were chosen. Under each
specific land cover ten, five‐centimeter core samples of soil were taken for further testing. The
second test involved deep cores in a toposequence position, and the final test was within a single
deep core, testing the organic matter in the different horizons. Results are tentative.
1. Bio Sketch
1.1 Home Institution: Langston University
1.2 Major: Biology
1.3 Classification: Junior
1.4 USF Advisor/Mentor: David Lewis, Ph.D.
1.5 Professional Goals: Undecided; Keeping my options open in
order to end up somewhere I am
happy.
REU in Tampa Interdisciplinary Environmental Research
40
Emily Henderson
2. Abstract
Estimating the impacts of nitrogen oxide from port emissions on air quality in Hillsborough County, Florida
Emily Henderson1, Haofei Yu2, Amy Stuart2 1University of Florida, Department of Environmental Engineering
2University of South Florida, Colleges of Public Health and Engineering
Keywords: shipping, port emissions, emission allocation, air quality modeling, NOX concentration
Port emissions are a topic of growing interest due to their potential threat to humans and the
environment, but few studies exist that both investigate high resolution air quality impacts and focus
exclusively on the Tampa, Florida region. The purpose of this paper is to estimate the impacts of
shipping emissions, especially nitrogen oxides (NOx), on the air quality in Hillsborough County,
Florida. Emission data was obtained from the US EPA’s 2002 National Emissions Inventory (NEI) and
spatially allocated to shipping lanes and ports. The spatial distribution of NOx air pollution was
estimated using the CALPUFF dispersion model. Maps of the maximum one‐hour concentration and
average annual concentration over the county showed high concentrations centralized in the area
surrounding the ports and shipping lanes, while lower concentrations were found farther away from
the ports. These results were expected because of the large amounts of pollutants emitted by ports.
It was concluded that port emissions have an impact on air quality throughout the county.
1. Bio Sketch
1.1 Home Institution: University of Florida 1.2 Major: Environmental Engineering 1.3 Classification: 5th Year Senior 1.4 USF Advisor/Mentor: Amy Stuart, Ph.D. 1.5 Professional Goals: Upon graduation, I plan to
work for several years and
return to graduate school. I
hope to ultimately work in the
green engineering field either
in a consulting firm or for the
government.
REU in Tampa Interdisciplinary Environmental Research
41
Wainella Isaacs
2. Abstract
Photocatalytic oxidation of model cellular membranes of E. coli Wainella N. Isaacs1, O. K. Dalrymple2, M.A. Trotz2 and D.Y. Goswami3
1University of the West Indies – St. Augustine, Trinidad and Tobago 2Civil & Environmental Engineering, University of South Florida
3Department of Chemical and Biomedical Engineering
Keywords: Disinfection, Lipid vesicles, Peroxidation, Malondialdehyde.
The potential use of solar‐powered photocatalytic disinfection water systems in remote and poor communities is an attractive concept and has generated much research over the last two decades. It has been applied for the inactivation of a wide range of water pathogens and may provide an effective alternative to traditional disinfection methods. Recent literature has led to the general hypothesis of peroxidation of phospholipid membranes as the main mechanism for photocatalytic inactivation of bacteria. To test the peroxidation hypothesis, previous research utilized free lipids, particularly lipids with the ethanolamine polar group which is dominant in the cell membrane of E. coli. Although these experiments yield useful information, the kinetics of cellular membrane oxidation may deviate from that of free lipids. In this work, lipid vesicles, which are excellent models of biological membranes, were prepared with similar composition and size to E. coli (the most common indicator organism). These vesicles were photocatalytically treated in a test tube batch reactor using TiO2 and UV‐A lamps. The rate of phospholipid membrane degradation was determined by the quantification of oxidation byproducts. TBARS and lipid hydroperoxide assay methods were used to assess malondialdehyde (MDA) and lipid hydroperoxide respectively. E. coli cells were also treated photocatalytically after their membrane fatty acid content was modified by the addition of supplements to their growth media. The concentrations of oxidation byproducts were compared for all experiments. The results show that the oxidation kinetics of lipid vesicles closely match the oxidation of E. coli cells in photocatalytic systems, indicating that these vesicles can aid in the development of a mechanistic model for photocatalytic disinfection.
1. Bio Sketch
1.1 Home Institution: University of the West Indies, St. Augustine, Trinidad and Tobago
1.2 Major: Environmental and Natural Resource Management and Chemistry
1.3 Classification: My program is 3 years and will be entering my 2nd year in September.
1.4 USF Advisor/Mentor: Yogi Goswami. Ph.D. 1.5 Professional Goals: At this stage of my career I am not
yet sure what further studies I wish to pursue however I intend to succeed at every task I undertake. However in the future I wish to make a significant contribution to my country’s development.
REU in Tampa Interdisciplinary Environmental Research
42
Caleb Jewell
2. Abstract
Algae Productivity Rates in Aquaculture and Human Wastewater Using Bench‐scale Photobioreactors
Caleb Jewell1, Sarina Ergas2 1North Carolina A&T State University
2Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, University of South Florida
Keywords: Phytobioremediation, photobioreactors, wastewater
Monoculture farms and factories are increasingly relied upon to meet the numerous demands of our
growing population. The failure to remove nutrient pollutants from sewage wastewater results in
water pollution, the proliferation of disease, and a decline in the health of ecosystems. Nitrogen and
phosphorus laden effluent discharged into freshwater and marine habitats often cause algal blooms
that are anathema to the balance of aquatic ecosystems. The phytobioremediation process utilizes
algae to absorb nutrients and return an ecosystem altered by contaminants to its natural
equilibrium. This study examines the potential of incorporating algae production with fish
aquaculture farming, and human wastewater tertiary treatment. The objective of the study is to
determine nutrient removal and algae productivity rates in aquaculture and human wastewater
using bench‐scale photobioreactors. Wastewater was collected from the Howard Curren
Wastewater Treatment Plant and Mote Marine Laboratory. The two different waste media were
compared to a defined media—comprised of a commercial fertilizer, nitrogen and phosphorus.
Samples were extracted daily for a week and the following tests were performed on those samples:
Total Nitrogen, Total Phosphorus, Total Biomass, COD, and both Chlorophyll a and b. Details of the
results are pending analysis.
1. Bio Sketch
1.1 Home Institution: North Carolina A&T State
1.2 Major: Bio‐Environmental Engineering
1.3 Classification: Senior
1.4 USF Advisor/Mentor: Sarina Ergas, Ph.D.
1.5 Professional Goals: I plan to earn a Ph.D. and become a
professor.
REU in Tampa Interdisciplinary Environmental Research
43
Meg Lee
2. Abstract
Life Cycle Analysis of Solar Assisted Biomass Gasification Meg Lee1, Maria Pinilla2, Qiong Zhang2
1Princeton University 2Civil & Environmental Engineering, University of South Florida
Keywords: Life Cycle Analysis, Solar Energy, Gasification, Biofuels, GaBi, Cellulosic Biomass, Ethanol
This project will conduct a life cycle analysis through GaBi process simulation software to assess the
environmental and economical benefits and drawbacks of solar assisted biomass gasification versus
regular gasification for biofuel production. In recent years, the increase in fossil fuel consumption
has led to higher greenhouse gas emissions which have further adverse impacts on ecosystem and
human health. Accumulation of greenhouse gas emissions will hinder ozone formation which will
influence global climate by increasing mean temperatures and frequency of extreme weather events.
Biomass as a domestic renewable energy source has attracted much attention to diversify the
nation’s energy supply. Due to criticisms of food‐based biofuel, cellulosic biofuel has being under
heavy investigation. Solar energy capture is an innovative solution that has potential in improving
our current system of cellulosic biofuel generation. Solar energy collectors are implemented into the
system to provide energy in the gasification step, decreasing the energy sacrifice required for the
conversion process. This project will conduct a life cycle analysis to assess the environmental
benefits and drawbacks of solar assisted biomass gasification versus regular gasification for biofuel
production. The LCA will be conducted using GaBi which will map out the inputs, outputs, and flows
of the system using the data from process simulation and built‐in life cycle inventory database.
Environmental impacts such as energy balance, global warming potential, and eutrophification can
then be analyzed and the environmental impacts from the overall process will be assessed.
Recommendations on improvement opportunities and leverage points of the system will be made
based on the results of life cycle assessment.
1. Bio Sketch
1.1 Home Institution: Princeton University
1.2 Major: Civil & Environmental Engineering
1.3 Classification: Senior
1.4 USF Advisor/Mentor: Qiong Zhang, Ph.D.
1.5 Professional Goals: Graduate school, undecided
REU in Tampa Interdisciplinary Environmental Research
44
Jillianne Matus
2. Abstract
The Anthropological and Environmental Significance of Green Space in Rapid Urbanization in the Developing World City of Santa Cruz, Bolivia
Jillianne Matus1, Heather Wright Wendel2, James Mihelcic2 1Southern Methodist University
2 University of South Florida, Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering
Keywords: Green space, urbanization, city planning, developing world, hydrology
Rapid urbanization is increasingly becoming an issue in the developing world as people are leaving
their traditional rural way of life for greater economic opportunity in the city center. This rapid
growth in population correlates to an increase in urban sprawl and development, especially due to
improvements in the availability of both public and private transportation. City planners are tasked
with providing basic services for this rapidly growing population and creating controls for the
negative impacts of urbanization. Studies have shown that the resulting problems, including traffic,
pollution, and reduced citizen quality of life can result in the loss of productivity or even life due to
illness and disease (Araby, 2002). Because of this city planners are becoming more aware of the
practical mental health benefits of green spaces in urban environments, such as providing people
with an increased sense of ownership with the land and restoration and relief from daily struggles
(Wong 1997, cited in Maller et al. 2006). These are on top of the more tangible environmental
benefits, such as improved air quality, water pollutant filtration, increased control of stormwater
runoff and flooding, and increased groundwater recharge. The goal of this research project was to
highlight the benefits of green spaces for the people of Santa Cruz, Bolivia. This was done through
the statistical analysis of park use and interview data using the software SPSS PASW Statistics 18 and
through the analysis of historical groundwater quality and depth, meteorological data, drainage
canal development, and census data.
1. Bio Sketch
1.1 Home Institution: Southern Methodist University
1.2 Major: Environmental Engineering
1.3 Classification: Senior
1.4 USF Advisor/Mentor: James Mihelcic , Ph.D.
1.5 Professional Goals: My professional goals are to
complete at least a Master’s degree
in Environmental Engineering and
go to work in the field of
sustainable development in
developing countries.
REU in Tampa Interdisciplinary Environmental Research
45
Heidi Nafis
2. Abstract
Ion Exchange Removal of Perchlorate and Nitrate from Groundwater
Heidi Nafis1, Sarina Ergas2, Kristen Andre2
1 Washington University in St. Louis
2University of South Florida Department of Civil & Environmental Engineering
Keywords: ion exchange, perchlorate, nitrate, groundwater, anaerobic biodegradation, perchlorate
reduction, nitrate reduction, spent brine, ion exchange resin
Perchlorate has recently emerged as a contaminant of concern in the groundwater supply, with over
150 sites in 38 states that are now considered contaminated. Too much exposure to perchlorate can
lead to problems with iodide uptake in the thyroid, which interferes with growth and metabolism.
Perchlorate occurs naturally, but most of the contamination comes from rocket fuel and munitions
manufacturing. There are various ways to remove perchlorate from water, including ion exchange
and biological treatment. Ion exchange–specifically the effectiveness of ion exchange resin—was the
main focus of this individual project. Many different resins with different selectivities and
characteristics exist commercially; two perchlorate‐specific resins were tested and evaluated to find
the optimal resin for perchlorate treatment. Several ion exchange column experiments were run on
a bench‐scale using 3% and 10% NaCl solutions as regenerant for the resins. Samples were taken
periodically throughout each experiment and subsequently analyzed using an ion chromatograph.
Breakthrough curves were then generated to determine the efficiency of each resin. The “optimal
resin” was determined to be the resin that removes the most perchlorate and regenerates with the
least salt concentration. Perchlorate has a high affinity for the resins, so a good balance must be
found between effective treatment and effective regeneration. The context of this project, however,
involves both techniques. After using an ion exchange column to extract perchlorate and nitrate ions
from groundwater, perchlorate‐reducing bacteria (PRB) will be used to treat the spent ion exchange
brine and eliminate the perchlorate and nitrate.
1. Bio Sketch
1.1 Home Institution: Washington University in St. Louis
Franklin W. Olin College of Engineering
1.2 Major: Mechanical Engineering
1.3 Classification: Sophomore
1.4 USF Advisor/Mentor: Sarina Ergas, Ph. D.
1.5 Professional Goals: I want to get a master’s degree in
Environmental Engineering and eventually
do service engineering work in Africa.
46
REU in Applied Physics
REU in Applied Physics
47
Zephra Bell
2. Abstract
Polypeptide Chirality Influences Multilayer Nanofilm Growth and Structure
Zephra Bell1, Dhan B. Khadka2, Donald T. Haynie2 1 Southern University and A & M College, Baton Rouge
2Nanomedicine and Bionanotechnology Laboratory, Department of Physics, University of South Florida, Tampa
Keywords: electrostatic layer‐by‐layer assembly, beta sheet
Polypeptide multilayer nanofilms are being developed for numerous applications. These include
coatings for implant devices and drug delivery systems in the biomedical sciences, and optical
coatings and filtration membranes in other areas. The film fabrication methodology, called
electrostatic layer‐by‐layer self‐assembly, is scalable and therefore suitable for industrialization. The
self‐assembling species are polyelectrolytes dissolved in solution. Subsequent polymer adsorption
steps involve polymers of opposite polarity. Here, the polymers were polypeptides. We studied the
consequences of changing polyanion chirality on film growth and structure. The peptides were
poly(L‐glutamic acid), its right‐handed counterpart, poly(D‐glutamic acid), and poly(L‐lysine, L‐
tyrosine). The first two peptides are negatively charged at neutral pH, the third one is positively
charged. Poly(lysine‐tyrosine)/poly(L‐glutamic acid) films and poly(L‐lysine, L‐tyrosine)/poly(D‐
glutamic acid) films were fabricated on 1 mm‐thick quartz plates. In one experiment, films were
grown to 34 layers. The rate of polymer self‐assembly was determined by taking the UV absorption
spectrum after each layer was deposited. Separately, UV or visible wavelength spectra were
recorded for films stained with a dye or films cooled or heated in the range 4‐65 °C. In yet another
experiment, an equimolal mixture of poly(L‐glutamic acid) and poly(D‐glutamic acid) served as the
polyanion for film buildup. The data show that poly(lysine‐tyrosine)/poly(L‐glutamic acid) films built
up at a higher rate than the corresponding right‐handed films. � sheets were shown to form in the L‐
film; this is not possible in the D‐film. Both L‐ and D‐film spectra were found to display significant
changes on film heating. These changes were reversible.
1. Bio Sketch
1.1 Home Institution: Southern University and A & M
College, Baton Rouge, LA
1.2 Major: Physics
1.3 Classification: Junior
1.4 USF Advisor/Mentor: Donald Haynie, Ph.D.
1.5 Professional Goals: To graduate in the spring of 2011 and
immediately begin a Bridge to the
Doctorate Program to earn my Ph.D.
REU in Applied Physics
48
Christopher Chambers
2. Abstract
Developing a Procedure for the Characterization of Mechanical Properties of
Collagen Gels
Christopher Chambers1, Garrett Matthews2
1 Northern Arizona University
2Department of Physics, University of South Florida
Keywords: Collagen, Microrheology
The characterization of bulk mechanical properties of type I collagen gels is critical to understanding
the role of collagen in the extracellular matrix (ECM), and developing biocompatible devices for use
in the human body. Understanding the mechanical properties of the gel state of collagen can lead to
the ability to adjust these properties for multiple uses. Here, we examined the complex elastic
modulus of the synthesized gels. This project used a microrheological approach to discover these
properties. Gels were first formed using a known process and magnetic microspheres were
embedded in the gel prior to formation. An optical microscope was fitted with a magnetic chamber
used to drive the embedded beads in two modes, an oscillatory motion and a pulse motion. Tracking
software was modified and used to analyze the motion of the beads as recorded with a CCD camera
on the microscope. These techniques should be sufficient to obtain a reliable value for the modulus
of collagen gels, as well as other similar materials.
1. Bio Sketch
1.1 Home Institution: Northern Arizona University
1.2 Major: Physics and Astronomy
1.3 Classification: Senior
1.4 USF Advisor/Mentor: Garrett Matthews, Ph.D.
1.5 Professional Goals: I intend to enter a graduate program
and I am undecided beyond that point. My main objective is to have a career in experimental physics, applied or pure.
REU in Applied Physics
49
Brian Demaske
2. Abstract
Development of EAM Potentials for Molecular Dynamics Simulations of
Metals at Extreme Conditions
Brian J Demaske, Vasily V Zhakhovsky, Ivan I Oleynik
Department of Physics, University of South Florida
Keywords: Molecular dynamics, Interatomic potentials, Embedded atom method, Ablation,
spallation, Shock wave
Large‐scale molecular dynamics (MD) simulations are an indispensable tool for investigations of high‐
strain rate phenomena within materials subjected to shock compression or irradiation by ultrashort
laser pulses. At the heart of any MD simulation are interatomic potentials that describe the basic
interactions among atoms. In order to utilize the predictive power of MD simulations, the potentials
must be able to reproduce the behavior of the system under study for a wide range of pressures and
temperatures. The goal of this work is to develop new analytical embedded atom method (EAM)
potentials for Al, Ni, Cu, and Au that can be used in simulation of metals at extreme conditions.
The development of the potentials involves three main steps. The first step consists of generating a
database that includes experimental data ‐ elastic constants, cohesion energies and lattice constants,
and first‐principles data ‐ cold stress tensor curves obtained by density functional theory
calculations. The second step involves fitting the functional parameters to the database, which in
turn produces several possible EAM parameter sets. For the final step, the best parameter set is
selected based on how well it reproduces important experimental properties not included in fitting,
such as vacancy formation and migration energies and melting temperatures. Ultimately, the newly‐
developed EAM potentials will be used in MD studies of high strain rate phenomena in metals.
1. Bio Sketch
1.1 Home Institution: University of South Florida
1.2 Major: Physics
1.3 Classification: Senior
1.4 USF Advisor/Mentor: Ivan Oleynik, Ph.D.
1.5 Professional Goals: PhD in Applied Physics from the University of South Florida; Post‐doctoral research position at a national laboratory following graduation from USF; Head of computational science research group in Condensed Matter Physics.
REU in Applied Physics
50
Jacob Duscha
2. Abstract
Growth and Characterization of Ba8Ga16Ge30 type I Clathrate Thin Films
Grown by Pulsed Laser Deposition
Jacob Duscha1, Robert Hyde2, Devajyoti Mukherjee2, Sarath Witanachchi2
1 Macalester College
2Department of Physics, University of South Florida
Keywords: Pulsed laser deposition, Thin films, Thermoelectrics, Clathrates
Ba8Ga16Ge30 thin films were successfully grown on Si (100) substrates using pulsed laser deposition.
In recent times, the bulk properties of clathrates have been extensively studied for their potential
thermoelectric (TE) applications. However, there have been few reports of thin film growth due to
the intrinsic difficulty in growing these caged structures in thin film form. Hence, a systematic study
of the growth parameters of these thin films was undertaken. Growth of stoichiometric Ba8Ga16Ge30
clathrate thin films is complicated by the non‐congruent evaporation during the ablation process.
This results in Ga or Ge deficient thin films, degrading their properties. The laser ablated plasma
plumes were hence analyzed using ICCD imaging and optical emission spectroscopy enabling
optimization of growth parameters. Film thickness profiles of various target‐substrate distances were
plotted to estimate an optimum deposition rate. Surface morphologies of the as‐deposited films
were examined using a scanning electron microscope. Structural properties were characterized using
x‐ray diffraction technique. The electrical properties of films were measured as a function of
thickness and compared to known bulk properties. This investigation provides a new direction
towards the growth of high quality thin films for potential TE device applications.
1. Bio Sketch
1.1 Home Institution: Macalester College
1.2 Major: Physics, Mathematics
1.3 Classification: Junior
1.4 USF Advisor/Mentor: Sarath Witanachchi, Ph.D.
1.5 Professional Goals: Graduate School, PhD
REU in Applied Physics
51
Justin Easley
2. Abstract
Electrochromic Properties of Single‐nanocrystalline Tungsten Oxide
Justin Easley1, Jason Bylsma2, Prasenjit Dey2, Denis Karaiskaj2
1 Massachusetts Institute of Technology
2University of South Florida, Optical and Laser Spectroscopy Lab
Keywords: Electrochromism, FTIR, Tungsten Oxide
Electrochromism is the reversible change in a material’s optical spectrum caused by applying a
voltage to the material. The material of interest in this study is Tungsten Oxide (WO3), which is used
in many commercial electrochromic devices. There are two major theories for how electrochromism
works; one concerns small polaron formation, the other involves oxygen vacancies in the lattice of
the material. We have two, single‐crystal, thin film samples of WO3, one that is pure WO3 and one
that has oxygen vacancies. We used both optical and Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy to gain
absorption spectra for the two samples, and also looked at temperature dependencies of the
samples on their spectra. We will use this data to try to determine the underlying theory for
electrochromism, which will lead to faster and more efficient electrochromic devices.
1. Bio Sketch
1.1 Home Institution: Massachusetts Institute of Technology
1.2 Major: Physics
1.3 Classification: Freshman
1.4 USF Advisor/Mentor: Denis Karaiskaj, Ph.D.
1.5 Professional Goals: I plan to work either in academia or
Industry either in the field of optics or
atomic and molecular physics.
REU in Applied Physics
52
Jahnieka Griffin
2. Abstract
High yield Bottom‐up Syntheses of Thermoelectric Materials in
Nanocrystalline Form
Jahnieka Griffin1, Jagannath Paul2, Anuja Datta2, and George S. Nolas2
1Hampton University
2Department of Physics, University of South Florida
Keywords: Thermoelectric, Bottom‐up synthesis, Nanocrystals
Nanocrystals of a variety of thermoelectric materials (PbTe, Bi2Te3, and Bi0.85Sb0.15) were prepared by
different bottom‐up chemical syntheses approaches. All the syntheses approaches allowed for the
yield of the nanocrystals more than 1 gm per batch. The nanocrystals were doped with Ag and
shelled with thin Ag layer that may modify the carrier concentration and electrical conductivity to
potentially optimize thermoelectric properties in these materials. Structural characterizations were
performed by X‐Ray diffraction (XRD) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The prepared
specimens were phase pure within the detectable limit of XRD. The SEM revealed the nanocrystalline
structure and allowed for the estimation of the size of the nanocrystals. Composition analyses were
performed by energy dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy. Densification of the nanocrystals by spark
plasma sintering will be used to prepare bulk polycrystalline specimens with nano‐scale domains that
are of interest for thermoelectric applications.
1. Bio Sketch
1.1 Home Institution: Hampton University
1.2 Major: Physics
1.3 Classification: Sophomore
1.4 USF Advisor/Mentor: George Nolas, Ph.D.
1.5 Professional Goals: I plan to obtain a PhD in either
applied physics or materials physics.
REU in Applied Physics
53
Adam Iaizzi
2. Abstract
Ab‐initio study of folded armchair grapheme nanoribbons
Adam Iaizzi1, Lilia Woods2, Nam Lee2
1 Ithaca College
2University of South Florida, Department of Physics
Keywords: Graphene, Nanoribbon, Density Functional Theory, ab‐initio methods, Local Density Approximation, VASP
We present a first principles approach to the characterization of multiply folded armchair graphene
nanoribbons using the Vienna Ab‐initio Simulation Package, along with built‐in ultrasoft
psuedopotentials and the Local Density Approximation for the exchange‐correlation functional.
These tools were used to determine the energy required to produce a number of different folded
structures from unfolded armchair nanoribbons as well as to determine the energy as a function of
folded width in single fold structures.
1. Bio Sketch
1.1 Home Institution: Ithaca College (Ithaca, NY)
1.2 Major: Physics (B.S.) Minors: Economics,
Mathematics
1.3 Classification: Senior (Graduation: May 2011)
1.4 USF Advisor/Mentor: Lilia Woods, Ph.D.
1.5 Professional Goals: Finish my undergraduate degree and pursue a Ph.D. in physics. After that work in the private sector for a number of years and eventually get a tenured position at a college or university.
REU in Applied Physics
54
Travis Miller
2. Abstract
Growth of Graphene on Metal Substrates
Travis Miller1, Jayeeta Lahiri2, Rafik Addou2, Matthias Batzill2
1Grove City College
2Department of Physics, University of South Florida
Keywords: Graphene, Carbide, Intercalation, Auger Electron Spectroscopy
Graphene, a single layer of graphite, has large potential as an electronic material. For these
applications large scale, high quality graphene wafers are required. A promising approach to achieve
this is by growth on metal substrates. In this REU project I used Auger electron spectroscopy to study
the growth of graphene on Ni(111) and its modification by Cu or Al additions. On pure nickel we
found two graphene growth regimes. Below 480 °C graphene grows by converting a surface carbide
phase while above 480 °C graphene grows on pure nickel. Addition of copper destabilizes the nickel
carbide enabling the growth of graphene in the absence of a carbide at lower temperatures. Finally,
aluminum intercalation through the Ni‐supported graphene layer was investigated in an attempt to
form an ordered Ni‐Al alloy underneath the graphene. Surprisingly, we found that this intercalation
process already occurs at only 100 °C. Furthermore, the intercalated Al is protected by the graphene
against oxidation.
1. Bio Sketch
1.1 Home Institution: Grove City College
1.2 Major: Applied Physics
1.3 Classification: Junior
1.4 USF Advisor/Mentor: Matthias Batzill, Ph.D.
1.5 Professional Goals: I am still unsure at this point. I would
either like to pursue a graduate
degree, or obtain an industry job. I
would also like to pursue a teaching
career at some point.
REU in Applied Physics
55
Jennifer Perry
2. Abstract
Molecular Dynamic Simulation of Oxidative Damage in Cell Membranes
Jennifer Perry1, Joseph Fogarty2, Sagar A. Pandit2
1 Drake University, Des Moines, IA
2Department of Physics, University of South Florida
Keywords: Lipid bilayers, Oxidation, Classical molecular dynamics, Reactive molecular dynamics
Oxidative damage occurs in the lipid bilayers of a cell when the cell is exposed to free radicals. The
stress that is induced results in the aging of the cell. The process of lipid oxidation at the atomic level
is not completely understood. A simulation of a lipid bilayer in an oxidative environment is
preformed. First, classical molecular dynamics (MD) is used to obtain the structure of the lipid bilayer
to be passed to a reactive MD system. Resulting chemical composition of the bilayer along with
structural properties such as volumetric analysis, electron densities, form factors, and order
parameters are compared to experimental results to determine the stability of the lipid bilayer in MD
simulations.
1. Bio Sketch
1.1 Home Institution: Drake University
1.2 Major: Physics and Mathematics
1.3 Classification: Sophomore
1.4 USF Advisor/Mentor: Sagar Pandit, Ph.D.
1.5 Professional Goals: I plan on attending graduate school to obtain a doctorate in either Physics or Mathematics.
REU in Applied Physics
56
Christopher Persichilli
2. Abstract
Does Thioflavin‐T detect Critical Intermediates of Amyloid Fibril Formation by
Lysozyme?
Chris Persichilli1, Shannon E. Hill2, Tatiana Miti2, Martin Muschol2
1 Rensselaer Polytechnic University, Dept. of Physics, Troy NY
2Department of Physics, University of South Florida
Keywords: Lysozyme (HEWL), Thioflavin T, Amyloid Fibrils
Deposits of proteinaceous plaques, induced by fibril growth of amyloid proteins, are responsible for
a wide range of human disorders including neurodegenerative diseases such as Parkinson’s and
Alzheimer’s Disease. Thioflavin T (ThT) is a widely used fluorescent dye used to detect fibril
formation, both in tissue samples and in vitro. Binding to the cross �‐sheet structures of mature
fibrils causes a strong increase in ThT fluorescence and a characteristic red shift. Using hen egg‐white
lysozyme (HEWL) as a model protein, we investigate whether ThT can detect various transiently
formed intermediates during amyloid fibril growth. Such intermediates are now considered the
predominant species toxic to cells and tissues. Results from dynamic light scattering (DLS) and
atomic force microscopy (AFM) indicate the presence of oligomeric intermediates which fail to
register in ThT fluorescence assay. We conclude that ThT may not be the appropriate tool for
studying the growth of the critically important toxic intermediates of amyloid fibril formation.
1. Bio Sketch
1.1 Home Institution: Rensselaer polytechnic Institute
1.2 Major: Physics
1.3 Classification: Junior
1.4 USF Advisor/Mentor: Martin Muschol, Ph.D.
1.5 Professional Goals: Graduate School
REU in Applied Physics
57
Advaith Rao
2. Abstract
Characterizing Surface Segregation in Fe‐Ni Nanoclusters Using Monte Carlo
Simulations
Advaith Rao1, Debosruti Dutta2, Venkat Bhethanabotla2
1 University of California at Berkeley
2University of South Florida, Department of Chemical Engineering
Keywords: Carbon nanotube Growth, Bimetallic nanoclusters, Monte Carlo simulations
Controlling the chirality of carbon nanotubes and by extension their apparent physical properties,
especially conductivity, is of prime importance for industrial applications of semiconductors.
Bimetallic nanoclusters have been found to impart such tuning properties to the growth of carbon
nanotubes when adsorbed before propagation, and current research has been focused on
understanding the effects of the Fe‐Ni system, specifically at which compositions control of certain
desired chiralities is optimized. However, these Fe‐Ni nanoclusters present a problem for
straightforward analysis not only because of the lattice mismatch between Ni and Fe but also due to
their different bulk crystal structures, face‐centered cubic and body‐centered cubic, respectively.
Monte Carlo simulations provide an inexpensive way to probe the properties of a range of alloy
compositions without the need for synthesis and purification in the laboratory, and are used here to
study the surface segregation of Fe‐Ni alloys as a function of composition and cluster size for the
minimum energy configurations. Analysis of these equilibrated nanoclusters indicates a migration of
Fe to the surface and the localization of Ni in the bulk or core, as is expected from surface energy
arguments, with both elements preferring their respective stable lattice structures at the local level.
1. Bio Sketch
1.1 Home Institution: University of California, Berkeley
1.2 Major: Chemical Engineering
1.3 Classification: Junior
1.4 USF Advisor/Mentor: Venkat Bhethanabotla, Ph.D.
1.5 Professional Goals: Work at major chemical companies such as Dupont, Dow Chemical, etc.; obtain MBA, and perhaps start own engineering consulting firm.
REU in Applied Physics
58
Andrew Ross
2. Abstract
First‐principles Investigation of Graphene‐metal Interfaces
Andrew Ross1, Lyudmila Adamska2, You Lin2, Ivan Oleynik2
1 Saint Anselm College
2University of South Florida, Department of Physics, Materials Simulation Laboratory
Keywords: Graphene, Ni(111) surface, Interfaces, Cu and Ni adlayers, Density functional theory
Graphene, an atom‐thick layer of carbon, has been shown to possess unique electronic properties
which make it an attractive candidate for nanoelectronics applications. Epitaxial growth of graphene
on metal substrates is one promising methods of large‐scale graphene’s wafer production. In the
case of graphene’s growth on Ni(111) surface, the small lattice mismatch between these two
materials is responsible for growth of high quality graphene samples. We present results of first‐
principles density functional theory (DFT) investigation of the structural, electronic, and magnetic
properties of graphene/Ni(111) interfaces relevant to experimental studies of graphene growth on
nickel substrates. DFT calculations were performed to identify the interface geometries and binding
sites for different interface geometries. Additional adlayers of Ni and Cu either adsorbed on top of
the graphene/metal interface, or placed below the graphene were studied in order to model
processes of metal intercalation. It is found that the fcc site is the favored binding site of graphene
on the Ni(111) substrate, and the metal adlayers on top of the graphene/Ni(111) preferentially bind
to the top graphene site. It was also found that the interaction between graphene/Ni(111) and the
top Cu adlayer is much weaker compared to that for Ni adlayer. The atomic, electronic, and magnetic
properties of these interfaces, including induced magnetic moments in graphene/Ni(111) and
{Cu,Ni}/graphene/Ni(111) systems will also be discussed.
1. Bio Sketch
1.1 Home Institution: Saint Anselm College
1.2 Major: Applied Physics; Mathematics
1.3 Classification: Senior (class of 2011)
1.4 USF Advisor/Mentor: Ivan Oleynik, Ph.D.
1.5 Professional Goals: Undecided: Graduate school or
employment
REU in Applied Physics
59
Susanna Todaro
2. Abstract
Optical Design of a Robotic TV Camera for Minimally Invasive Abdominal
Surgery
Susanna Todaro1, Weiyi He2, Dr. Dennis Killinger2
1 Harvey Mudd College
2 University of South Florida, Department of Physics
Keywords: minimally invasive surgery, medical probe, optical ray tracing
Minimally invasive techniques are a promising new field of surgery; however, they limit the
surgeon’s access points and maneuverability. In order to increase the number of access points in
minimally invasive abdominal surgery, a proposed implantable probe braces to the abdominal wall
and provides illumination and video signal. The probe is cylindrical, about 25 mm long and 10 mm in
diameter. A ring of LEDs on the end of the probe illuminates the tissue and the resulting image is
focused onto an HD digital video detector. This project seeks to determine how best to collimate
that illumination using reflectors and lenses. The system was modeled in TracePro, a ray‐tracing
illumination design software. Two LED chip geometries and three reflector geometries were
considered, and the parameters for each geometry were optimized. For the straight‐edge reflector,
the optimization was compared to experiment. The irradiance resulting from the ray tracing of these
designs were compared to each other.
1. Bio Sketch 1.1 Home Institution: Harvey Mudd College 1.2 Major: Physics1.3 Classification: Sophomore (class of 2012 1.4 USF Advisor/Mentor: Dennis Killinger, Ph.D. 1.5 Professional Goals: I’m interested in taking a few years off
after graduating in order to join the Peace Corps, work with LGBT teens, and be involved in AIDS activism. After that, I’m absolutely interested in going to graduate school for physics, and ultimately working in physics research. I’m interested by a wide variety of physics fields – from optics to solid
REU in Applied Physics
60
Jennifer Trinh
2. Abstract
Organic Solar Cell Microarrays for Use in MEMS
Jennifer Trinh1, Jason Lewis2, Xiaomei Jiang2
1 Swarthmore College
2Deparment of Physics, University of South Florida, Nanostructure Optoelectronics Lab
Keywords: Microarray, MEMS, Organic solar cell, P3HT
We have improved the efficiency of our previous microarray, which was designed for use as a DC
power supply in microelectromechanical systems devices. The microarray consists of 20 small (1
mm2) solar devices connected in series for a total device area of approximately 2.2 cm2. The device
utilizes an active layer of poly(3‐hexylthiophene) (P3HT) and [6,6]‐phenyl‐C61‐butyric acid methyl
ester (PC61BM), both of which are mixed together (1:1 mass ratio) in a solvent of dichlorobenzene in
order to form a bulk heterojunction structure. The use of dichlorobenzene in place of chloroform as
a solvent allows the active layer to dry more slowly, which has a favorable effect on the structure of
the active layer, and thus on charge carrier mobility. Under simulated AM1.5 illumination, this new
device design shows improved current and voltage values over the older design.
1. Bio Sketch 1.1 Home Institution: Swarthmore College
1.2 Major: Physics
1.3 Classification: Junior
1.4 USF Advisor/Mentor: Xiaomei Jiang, Ph.D.
1.5 Professional Goals: After I graduate from Swarthmore College, I intend to go directly to graduate school in either Experimental Condensed Matter Physics or Atomic Physics, as preparation for ultimately entering either industry or academia.
REU in Applied Physics
61
Bryant J. Vande Kolk
2. Abstract
Digital Gabor Holography Using Partially Spatially Coherent Light
Bryant Vande Kolk1, David Clark2, Myung Kim2
1Ripon College, Ripon, Wisconsin
2Department of Physics, University of South Florida
Keywords: Digital holography, Rotating ground glass, Partially coherent light
Digital Gabor holography utilizes available numerical processing techniques to enhance the methods
from the original form of holography invented by Dennis Gabor in the 1940s. We investigate
another enhancement through the introduction of a partially spatially coherent light source that
reduces the speckle size and other noise commonly found in holography systems. In order to create
a partially spatially coherent light source, we implement a rotating ground glass into the apparatus
near the focus of the illuminating laser beam. Using two sample stages – the USAF 1951 resolution
target and 9.6μm‐diameter polymer microspheres – we further explore reduction in speckle size by
varying the distance from the illuminating laser beam focus, ground glass rotation speed, and
camera exposure time. We determine that there is a significant change in coherence and speckle
size with varying the distance from the laser beam focus; the pattern shows that a further distance
from the laser beam focus yields a less coherent light source and a smaller speckle size. After
measuring the depth of field for the refocused image with varying degree of coherence, we should
see that less coherence, or a smaller speckle size, leads to a smaller depth of field. A practical
application of digital holography is biological analysis. We replace the original two sample stages
with a suspension of live microbes and perform the imaging experiments on these new samples.
1. Bio Sketch
1.1 Home Institution: Ripon College, Ripon, Wisconsin
1.2 Major: Physics
1.3 Classification: Sophomore
1.4 USF Advisor/Mentor: Myung K. Kim, Ph.D.
1.5 Professional Goals: I aspire to participate in a doctorate program in physics after graduating from Ripon. Career possibilities I am currently considering include working as an industrial physicist, as a physics professor, and with a government agency such as NASA.
REU in Applied Physics
62
Aaron Zaubi
2. Abstract
Excitonic Structure and Polarization Dependence of CdSe and PbSe Quantum
Dots Determined by Single‐nanostructure Laser Spectroscopy
Aaron Zaubi1, Jason Bylsma2, Prasenjit Dey2, Denis Karaiskaj2
1 Cornell College
2University of South Florida, Optical and Laser Spectroscopy Lab
Keywords: Quantum dots, Single‐nanostructure laser spectroscopy, Photoluminescence
The focus of this project is to observe and collect data on nanostructures such as quantum dots and
carbon nanotubes. The method of single‐nanostructure laser spectroscopy allows us to observe
individual nanostructures while simultaneously removing ensemble averaging effects due to
quantum interactions between multiple structures. Photoluminescence measurements allow us to
probe the excitonic structure and properties of the samples. Examination of the polarization
dependence of the emission spectra provides insight into the structures’ internal symmetry.
1. Bio Sketch
1.1 Home Institution: Cornell College in Mt. Vernon, IA
1.2 Major: Physics
1.3 Classification: Junior
1.4 USF Advisor/Mentor: Denis Karaiskaj, Ph.D.
1.5 Professional Goals: Ph.D.; Become a professor
Poster Presentation Author Index
Presenter Poster #
Ackerknecht, Lucas 31
Araneda, Barbara 32
Arendt, Victoria 1
Beazley, Christine 18
Bell, Zephra 42
Beltran, Sergio Andres 2
Bringes, Christine 3
Browne, Jeremiah 19
Cáceres, Hildamarie 33
Calderon, Angel 4
Carter, Justin 20
Chambers, Christopher 43
Clark, Nickalaus 5
Colon, Arelys 21
Costa, Kassandra 34
Demaske, Brian 44
Duscha, Jacob 45
Easley, Justin 46
Griffin, Jahnieka 47
Harrison, Tashae 35
Henderson, Emily 36
Hinson, Justin 22
Iaizzi, Adam 48
Isaacs, Wainella 37
Jewell, Caleb 38
Lee, Meg 39
Mangual Rodriguez, Osvaldo 6
Marron Monteserin, Juan Jose 7
Martinez Avila, Edwin M. 8
Matias, Dashawn 9
Poster Presentation Author Index
Matus, Jillianne 40
Mendoza, Kenneth 10
Miller, Travis 49
Miranda, Schatzi 11
Mobley, Troy 23
Moore, Larry 12
Nafis, Heidi 41
Pearcey, Jasmine 24
Perry, Jennifer 50
Persichilli, Christopher 51
Placeres Rodriguez, Christian E. 13
Rao, Advaith 52
Richardson, Demetrius 14
Rios, Ismael 25
Rodriguez, Emmanuel 15
Ross, Andrew 53
Samuel, Yohannes 26
Sanchez, Maria 27
Silva, Hayde 28
Thompson, Curtis 29
Todaro, Susanna 54
Tosado Jimenez, Hector A. 16
Tran, Khoa 17
Trinh, Jennifer 55
Vande Kolk, Bryant J. 56
Young, Cherita 30
Zaubi, Aaron 57