project number: «projectnumber»

74

th Pittsburgh

Regional Science & Engineering Fair

Senior Division Student Project

Abstracts

April 5, 2013

Table of Contents

Senior – Behavioral and Social Science (SBS), 9th-12th Grade .............................. 1

Senior – Biology (SBI), 9th-12th Grade .................................................................... 9

Senior – Chemistry (SCH), 9th-12th Grade ............................................................ 23

Senior – Computer Science & Math (SCM), 9th-12th Grade .................................. 33

Senior – Earth/Space/Environment (SES), 9th-12th Grade ................................... 39

Senior – Engineering/Robotics (SER), 9th-12th Grade .......................................... 47

Senior – Medicine/Health/Microbiology (SMH), 9th-12th Grade ............................. 53

Senior – Physics (SPH), 9th-12th Grade ................................................................ 67

Students are to prepare Abstracts limited to 100 words that include the following:

Purpose of the experiment

Procedures used

Data

Conclusions

Possible research applications

Minimal reference to previous work

For continuation projects, the abstract should focus on work done since the last PRSEF

Should not include: a) acknowledgments, or b) work or procedures done by the mentor

Many students continue their research after the Abstract is submitted, and therefore the Abstract may not fully represent the Project. Abstracts are available to the Judges prior to the Science Fair as an aid in pre-screening the Projects. Judging is to be based on the actual Project as presented by the student.

Senior – Behavioral and Social Science (SBS), 9th-12th Grade

PRSEF Student Abstracts Page 1

Project Number: SBS100 Grade: 11

Title: Personality vs. IQ

Abstract: The goal of this experiment is to see which type of personality leads to the highest IQ.

To achieve this goal, juniors and seniors will be chosen to complete a personality test and an IQ

test. Results from the IQ test will be kept anonymous. After the tests have been submitted, each

person’s personality type will be paired with the achieved IQ score. The data will be observed to

find the personality that results in the highest IQ. Experimentation is close to completion, so a

conclusion cannot be made at this moment.


Title: Does temps affect math scores?

Abstract: It was hypothesized that different tempos produced by a metronome would affect the

scores of tests which math students took wile listening to this device. The faster tempos were

thought to result in worse scores. Several different test forms were produced and used for each

of the different tempos. The scores of the students' tests were collected and analyzed. It was

concluded that the hypothesis was not supported.


Title: Is Age a Factor in the Stroop Effect?

Abstract: I wil test to see whether or not age is contributing factor to the Stroop effect by

making two different charts. On the first there will be a list of colors printed in different color

inks. The second chart will have the same color inks printed in rectangles in the same formation

of the words. Participants will read the colors of the words for the first test and then the color of

the rectangles for the second while hey are timed for each. For each test, 1 send will be added to

the time for every mistake. the average will be taken for each age group to see how the different

groups compare.


Title: Arthritis Pain and Pineapple

Abstract: The purpose of my experiment is to determine whether eating pineapple everyday

takes away pain that is associated with arthritis. The participants are asked to eat half a cup of

pineapple everyday for one month with their regular diets, and after the one month, it will be

determined whether or not it actually helped with the pain. Pain inventory sheets are given to the

participants once a week for the duration of the experiment to record what kind of pain they were

experiencing and at what times of the month it was worse and when it started to get better.


Title: Gender Behavior Analysis using FRS

Abstract: Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is expected to become the leading cause of death in the

twenty first century, and coronary heart disease constitutes more than half of all CVD mortality.

The Framingham Risk Score (FRS) is currently utilized to calculate the ten-year CHD risk, using

a combination of non-modifiable risk factors and modifiable risk factors. I decided to investigate

how gender and psychological diseases play a role in FRS by analyzing data retrieved from 96



participants. These results can help psychologists and doctors help patients take on the right path

to a healthier life depending on their medical/psychological circumstances.


Title: "A Learning Style Showdown"

Abstract: The purpose of the experiment was to show the students whether or not they like the

learning style that was used for their test and to show whether or not ninth Graders learn better

by hearing or seeing. The way of approaching the problem through experimentation was by

showing two different tests to two different groups of ninth Grade students. The results show

that the scores, out of seventy, are as follows: Auditory: fifty-nine; Visual: sixty-five. In the end,

the results refute the hypothesis.


Title: Who does Max Spend His Time With Most?

Abstract: This study was conducted on the male tiger, Max, at the Pittsburgh Zoo. It was tested

to see which tiger he spent his time with most. A focal test was used to observe Max. It was

concluded that he spent most of his time with his sisters, Nikita and Simsa, which supported my

hypothesis.


Title: Effects of Implicit Egotism on Choice

Abstract: In this experiment I will test if on's own name can influence the choices on something

as trivial as choosing a soda to drink. I will do this by creating a flash page and allowing anyone

to participate. The flash page will ask for the subject's first name, and create a fake soda brand

starting with the first 2-3 letters of their own name. Then the subject will have to choose from

four brands, one being their own personalized version. I will then collect the data to see fi

people will subconsciously choose a soda brand similar to their own name.


Title: Pyschological Benefits of Yoga

Abstract: The purpose of this experiment is to determine whether running or a yoga exercise

holds more psychological benefits for teens. Ten people will be tested in each category, for a

total of 20 participants. The yoga workout will consist of a number of poses to do 3 days a week.

The running workout will consist of running 1 mile. The project's workout will proceed for three

months. Each month, the students will be given surveys to complete. At the end of three months,

the data will be reviewed to determine which exercise routine held more benefits for students.


Title: Memory Attachment and Chair Relaxation

Abstract: Chair Relaxation is a technique used by actors to rid themselves of emotional and

physical tension and stress. They do this by massaging their muscles and focusing on an

emotionally charged memory. They then release the tension by either, pounding on a mat,

punching or kicking the air, or yelling. In my study I will be testing the effectiveness of chair



relaxation by having participants take a mood scoring test before and after a session of chair

relaxation.


Title: Test out- Stressed Out?

Abstract: "Are stress levels highest before, during, or after taking an important test?" The

purpose is to see when students will be most stressed. If students know when they are stressed

the most then they will be able to do activities to lower their stress levels so they can keep calm

and accomplish the best scores possible on their tests. "If stress levels are compared before,

during, and after, then stress levels will be highest before taking the test because the students do

not know what information will be on the test or how hard the test will be."


Title: Do men and women see differently?

Abstract: This experiment looked at the difference in men and women’s point of view. This

topic was chosen due to an interest in how people think and how brains work differently. The

experiment used ten different tests and involved ten males and ten females. Five tests involved

optical illusions while the other five were random object images. The tests were chosen to help

determine if females and males saw and remembered different things. The results showed that

males and females don’t see differently. Individuals saw differently but there was no correlation

between their genders.


Title: Exersise and the Brain

Abstract: The problem for this investigation is: Can Exercise Make the Brain Work Better? The

Hypothesis for this investigation is: If the participant exercises for a certain amount of time then

the participant will have a higher test score than when he/she did no exercise. The Participants

will range from 11 to 14 years old. There will be 25 Male and 25 female minors observed in this

investigation. The participant will be asked to take home a Parent Consent Form to get signed so

the participant is allowed taking part in the experiment. On the first day a test will be given then

participant will be asked to jog for 10 minutes around the gym and then take the test again. The

next day they will be asked again to do the same thing as they did the day before. The total time

involved would be a total of 30 minutes (1st Day: 15 minutes 2nd Day: 15 Minutes) the benefit

of this investigation could be possible better test scores on States Assessments.


Title: Test the Rainbow: The Effect of Colored Paper on Test Scores

Abstract: I will design one logic test that will measure a student's cognitive abilities. A white

test will be used as the control. Blue, yellow, green, red, and gray are the colors that will be

tested. Students participating in the experiment will be required to sign an informed consent

form. The different colored tests will be distributed randomly to classes of physics students.

Students will have ten minutes to complete the test. Each group of different colored tests will be

a data set. The results will be analyzed using a T-test.




Title: The Language of Mirrors

Abstract: In the experiment, "The Language of Mirrors", left-handed and right-handed

participants were compared against each other to determine the efftect of handedness on the rate

at which one could write their name in "mirror language" (backwards). The experiment was

conducted on forty different people, twenty left handed and twenty right handed. Each

participant, when tested, wrote their name in mirror language on a peice of paper with a pen or

pencil. The time, rounded to the nearest tenth of a second, was recorded. THe results of the

showed that left-handed participants are 20.63 seconds faster.


Title: Does color affect comprehension?

Abstract: This project is based in the belief that certain actions or visuals can affect human

memory. Color is said to stimulate the brain: whether it be the color of text, picture or something

else. The results of this project could help students better their studying efforts and possibly

improve school and test scores. This project used differently colored factual texts to determine

whether or not color effects memorization.


Title: Does a person's level of authority affect one's memory?

Abstract: How much influence does a person of authority have on the memory of an observer?

This experiment was designed to determine whether subjects would remember more details

about the authority figure or a fellow student. An authority figure was asked to enter a room of

participants speak with the teacher in the room and then leave. Next a student will enter the

room and speak with the teacher. Within five minutes of the second person leaving the room, the

students will be given a survey to complete.


Title: Total Recall

Abstract: The purpose of this science fair project was to determine the affect of font color on the

ability to read the name of a color. The hypothesis is if the name of a color is typed in a different

font color, then it will take longer to correctly read the color. The hypothesis was tested by

having volunteers read the colors of words with the words colored in the correct font color and

other colors with the words in incorrect font color while times. The correct and incorrect font

color times were found to be different. The hypothesis was supported because the times for the

incorrectly colored words were higher than the times for the correctly colored words.


Title: Distractions From the Road

Abstract: The problem for this experiment is whether texting an calling distract a driver's focus

on the road. This researcher asked 30 seventh Graders to play Mario Kart Wii. Each participant

completed three trials, one for texting, calling, and no distractions. This allowed the researcher to

determine which action distracted them, if any. The qualitative data included what they texted



back, said when they were called, and the level of difficulty. The quantitative data included the

numbers of wrecks and time to complete the race. Analysis of data will help to determine if

texting or calling distract drivers.


Title: Do males or females remember their dreams better?

Abstract: Being curious about differences between male and female behaviors, this experiment

was designed to determine which sex could remember their dreams and visual information better.

There were ten volunteers of each sex for a total of 20 participants who were required to read an

article and take a memory test about the article. Volunteers were required to record their dreams

each morning upon awakening for a total of 14 days. The test was Graded and the correlated

with the participants' dreams. It was concluded that females remember their dreams better than

males.


Title: Depth Perception and Basketball Hoop

Abstract: Abstract

The purpose of my experiment is to see whether or not a visual aid affects how accurately or

consistently a person shoots foul shots. By conducting this experiment I measured out everything

for accurate results, and then put a visual aid in four different spots on the rim. Each person shot

25 shots for each spot the visual aid was at and I recorded each shot. My conclusions were that

the visual aid does affect how accurately and consistently you shoot and depth perception has a

lot to do with how your eyes judge the distance and accuracy.


Title: Boys, Girls, and Piaget

Abstract: This experiment uses Jean Piaget’s Theory of Conservation to assess which gender

displays developmental goals sooner. The theory states that from ages 5-7, children begin to

understand conservation—the fact that objects retain mass even after changing shape. Adults

know that a quart of water in a tall container is the same as a quart of water in a short container;

not all children agree. Using water, containers, and clay, I asked 90 children aged 5-9 (44 boys,

46 girls) to state which object had more mass after changing shapes.


Title: An Examination of Racial Preferences in Children

Abstract: The purpose of this experiment was to determine whether children exhibit a

preference for faces whose race is visually similar to their own. This will be done by utilizing a

digital, game-like tests. The first, called AMP [affect misattribution procedure], showed a face

[of varied race], then a neutral stimulus [a Chinese character], and then an Abstract, blurred

image. The children were then asked whether they liked or dislike the abstact image. This was

designed to test an implicit bias in the subjects. The data was then analyzed for statistical

significance and variance [using an ANOVA].




Title: Realationship Between Effectiveness and Beliefs of an iRenew

Abstract: This experiment was to determine if a person’s beliefs correspond to effectiveness of

an iRenew bracelet. I had had each volunteer answer whether they believed an iRenew would

enhance flexibility/balance I then had them do a sit and reach test and also a balance test first

without the bracelet then with wearing one. Result will be analyzed to determine the effect of

beliefs on flexibility.


Title: Do People Pay for the Name or for the Quality of Products

Abstract: Do people buy brand name products based on the name itself or for the actual quality

of the product? Name brand products and knockoffs are commonly thought to taste much

different; however, this may not be the case.


Title: Face the Facts

Abstract: The purpose of this experiment is to determine if the face plays a role in a person’s

comprehension when receiving audio. The experiment will include a reader and many listeners.

The reader record him/herself reading a self-composed detailed story. The recording will be

edited into two different videos. One video will show the readers face while reading the story

and the other will show only a black screen. Those who can see the readers face will better

comprehend the story because they will receive more sensory details, thus helping them obtain

more comprehension. Research is ongoing.


Title: Leading Questions in the Reliability of Eyewitness Testimony

Abstract: The reliability of eyewitness testimony has been a commonly debated aspect of

psychology. Some experimenters such as Loftus and Palmer (1974) have conducted experiments

that indicate its inaccuracy. Other experimenters, such as Yuille and Cutshall (1986) have

obtained results that point towards its accuracy. In this experiment, the accuracy of eyewitness

testimony will be examined through the use of leading questions. Leading questions are

questions in which wording is varied in the attempt to elicit a specific response. Participants will

be shown a video of a car crash. They will then be asked questions about the video. Four

standard questions will be given to all participants. Only one question will differ. This question

will use different wording to ask the experiments about the speed of the car upon impact.

Sometimes it will ask, “How fast was the car going when it contacted the other car?” Other

people will be asked about speed when the cars “bumped,” “collided,” “hit,” “smashed,” etc. The

hypothesis is that the participants’ answers will differ depending on the wording given. For

example, those given the question containing “bumped” will probably provide a lower speed

than those asked about when the cars “smashed.” Results will be available at the competition.


Title: Comparison of Education Methods Phase 4



Abstract: This project expanded on previous research investigating educational differences

between Montessori and traditional education. The purpose of this project was to compare the

cognitive skills of students enrolled in different educational styles, including Montessori,

Traditional, Waldorf, and online learning, and to determine whether one educational style

progressed faster into the Formal stage of thinking as stated by Jean Piaget. The study

administered the Group Assessment of Logical Thinking (GALT) to volunteer parents, teachers,

and students online. Over 1,500 volunteers were recruited from around the world. It was

hypothesized that Montessori students would perform statistically significantly better than other

educational types because Montessori uses tactile and interactive materials to better attend to an

individual student’s needs, as well as based on previous experimental results. Participants gave

informed consent before participating in the study. Data collected from the survey was

statistically analyzed in two ways. First, a series of 2 analyses were performed on the Piagetian

developmental level via frequency distributions to determine whether there was a statistical

difference between education types. Second, a series of t-tests were performed on the GALT

scores. Results indicated that significantly more Montessori students had transitioned into the

Formal Operational stage than other educational levels at the 99.9% confidence level.

Statistically more Montessori teachers were in the Formal Operational stage compared to other

teachers at the 90% confidence level. No statistical difference was observed between parents of

different educational styles.



This page intentionally left blank

Senior – Biology (SBI), 9th-12th Grade


Project Number: SBI100 Grade: 9

Title: How Organic is Organic?

Abstract: Using a Pesticide Residue Detection Kit, various produce samples will be tested to

determine whether or not these fruits and vegetables contain trace of pesticide (organophosphate

or carbamate). The coloric method or detection will be used.


Title: The Effects of Microwaved Water and Irradiated Soil on Pea Plants

Abstract: People every day are impacted by radiation. The objective of my experiment was to

determine how harmful microwaves are and what kind of effect does the food we eat, which has

been irradiated, has on us. To accomplish this, I grew pea plants, with two seeds per pot, for

three-week spans of time. I did this twice, with three plants in each trial. One plant was my

control, watered with filtered water. Another was one planted normally, but watered with

microwaved water. The third was planted in soil, which was irradiated prior to planting. From

this experiment, I learned that microwaved water does affect the growth of plants, and irradiated

soil stunts the growth to some degree. Therefore, microwaves, although great for saving time,

may cause complications in humans. In a pea plant, it just affected growth height. In people, with

continued use, it may cause cancer. Also the irradiated soil stunted growth in the plants. There

are no real implications toward people though, because this was most likely caused by lack of

bacteria and fungi.


Title: Adult Mammalian Brain Performs Neurogenesis

Abstract: Contrary to previous belief that neurons, or brain cells, cannot regenerate, recently,

scientists have found evidence of regeneration of neurons in the adult brain. Certain stimuli, such

as severe brain injuries, provide the impetus for the excessive production of newly formed

neurons. Thus, scientists have tried to find how newly formed neurons integrate into their

environment. Looking specifically at the hippocampus, one of the two brain regions where adult

neurogenesis occurs, I hypothesized that post- injury, the newly formed neurons are structurally

integrated in the adult hippocampal circuitry. Immunohistochemical analysis of mouse brain

tissue using epifluorescence microscopy confirmed the first step of the hypothesis leading to

further study of the characterization of how these newly formed neurons integrate themselves

into the hippocampus so as to better understand the functional significance of these adult-born

cells.


Title: The Difference in Clinical Effectiveness between Patient Populations in Adult Stem Cells

Promoting Vascularity

Abstract: Adipose-derived stem cells (ASCs) are often used for research in soft tissue and are

easily attainable. We will investigate the ability of ASCs from different patient populations (lean,

massive weight loss, and obese) to secrete angiogenic factors following exposure to hypoxia. It is

found that obese patient ASCs secrete higher levels compared to others. However, obese patients

are more prone to chronic non-healing wounds. I predict each patient population will show

different effectiveness in their growth and function. I will make fat grafts for each patient type to

analyze with CD31 staining and see which patient type secretes the most.




Title: The Effects of Psychokinesis on Grass

Abstract: The purpose of this experiment is to prove that it is possible to affect the physical

world with the mind, through the usage of visualization and concentration. In this experiment, I

will have 6 cans in which I will plant grass. Three of these, I will water and allowed to grow

normally. I will experiment on the other three. I will take those three down for five minutes

every morning and evening and visualize a toxic fire burning and killing them. I will record the

height of the grass in each can and photographed them. In the end, my data will hopefully show

that the grass which I experimented on did not grow as well as the grass which I left alone.


Title: Comparison of Lung Capacity Between Musicians and Non-musicians

Abstract: The purpose of this experiment was to determine if a person who plays a woodwind or

brass instrument has a greater lung capacity than a person who does not play instruments. The

hypothesis was that a person who plays instruments will have a larger lung capacity than

someone who does not play instruments. Subjects were asked to blow up balloons with one

breath for a total of three trials. The average volume of air in the balloons was compared. The

results supported the hypothesis.


Title: Creatine Affect on 3T3 Cells

Abstract: In this experiment, I tested the effect of creatine on a 3T3 cell line. Creatine is an

amino acid found in many protein supplement drinks. A 3T3 cell line is a fibrablastic cell line

that is found in the body to help repair connective tissues and ligaments. In this experiment, I had

the 3T3 cell line resemble the ligaments of the knee. This experiment resembles the effects of a

protein drink on the ligaments of the knee, because if you injure a knee ligament, you need

protein to gain leg muscle back.


Title: (NH4)Po4 Effects on Algal Populations

Abstract: Fertilizer runoff continues to cause problems in aquatic ecosystems by promoting

population imbalances. Ammonium phosphate, a common fertilizer component was tested to

evaluate effects on populations of two species of algae, Euglena Gracillis, and Chlamydomonas.

Algal cultures were exposed to six concentrations of ammonium phosphate, 2%, 1%, 0.5%,

0.25%, 0.125%, and 0%. Cultures were established in triplicate, and spectrophotometer readings

were performed in triplicate. Population density was determined through spectrophotometry and

hemocytometer counts. Replicate cultures and replicate spectrophotometer readings were very

consistent. Spectrophotometer readings were well correlated with hemocytometer counts by

linear regression, but with different slopes for each species. In the absence of ammonium

phosphate Chlamydomonas grew steadily over 15 days, while Euglena declined. Addition of

ammonium phosphate to Chlamydomonas cultures resulted in a negative dose response to the

fertilizer (dose-dependent inhibition), whereas it was slightly stimulatory to Euglena at low

concentrations, with high concentrations having no significant effect. The data indicate that



ammonium phosphate can exert strong effects on algal growth, but the type of effect may vary

with baseline growth state and species.


Title: McDonald’s Immortal French Fries

Abstract: This project involved evaluating the effect that preservatives have on the growth of

mold on McDonald’s French fries (which contain preservatives) compared to homemade French

fries (that contain no preservatives). The fries were placed in jars with moist paper towels in a

cool, dark area. The fries were left to sit in the jars for several days until mold was noticeable.

Qualitative data was collected each day. The hypothesis for this project is that mold will grow on

the homemade fries sooner (and in a greater amount) than on the McDonald’s fries. McDonald’s

French fries on Day 6.


Title: Coenzyme Q10 Effects on Cell Lines

Abstract: The purpose of this experiment was to determine the effects of Coenzyme Q-10,

specifically Ubiquinol, on the proliferation and differentiation of C2C12 cells (mouse myoblastic

stem cells), and the proliferation of MG-63 cells (human bone cancer cells). Coenzyme Q-10 is a

common vitamin that is present in the mitochondria of most eukaryotic cells. Due to its presence

in the mitochondria, Coenzyme Q-10 was speculated to cause an increase in the rate at which the

C2C12 cells would proliferate and differentiate. Coenzyme Q-10 is currently being researched as

a treatment for cancer, and as a supplement to help with the side effects of cancer treatment.

Ubiquinol is the electron-rich form of Coenzyme Q-10, and functions as an essential antioxidant

in cellular systems. Both types of cells were cultured in flasks and exposed to varying

concentrations of Ubiquinol for the proliferation experiment. Only C2C12 cells were cultured in

wells and exposed to varying concentrations of Ubiquinol for the differentiation experiment. In

the proliferation experiment, the low concentration of Ubiquinol (X) significantly increased

proliferation for both types of cells, but the high concentration of Ubiquinol (10X) significantly

decreased proliferation for both types of cells. These quantitative cell count results were

supported by ANOVA and Dunnett’s tests. In the qualitative differentiation experiment, the low

concentration of Ubiquinol (X) significantly increased the rate of the myoblasts fusing into

myotubes, but the high concentration of Ubiquinol (10X) significantly decreased the rate of

differentiation and lead to cell death.


Title: Chromosomal abnormalities detected in spontaneous abortions

Abstract: Pregnancy loss occurs in 15% - 20% of recognized pregnancies and approximately

50% of these losses are estimated to be caused by cytogenetic abnormalities which impact the

development and growth. Traditional cytogenetic techniques like karyotyping have been used

for a while, but now new microarray test with better resolutions are being used. My goal is to

determine the advantages and disadvantages of each cytogenetic method.




Title: Effect of Temperature on Solar Cells

Abstract: My experiment is how temperature affects the productivity of polycrystalline solar

cells. I measure temperature, volts, amps, and watts of the solar cells. My data reflects that the

higher the temperatures are, the lower the volts, watts, and amps will be. The solar cell will be

less productive. My conclusion is that if temperatures are higher, the solar cell productivity will

be lower. Conversely, if the temperatures are lower, then the productivity will be higher.


Title: Mile-a-minute factors

Abstract: This experiment was conducted to test the effect of different environments on the

invasive species, Mile-a-minute weed. The factors tested were soil pH, nitrogen, phosphorous,

and potassium as well as slope sunlight and density of the plant. It was determined that this

weed prefers slightly acidic soil and 63-100% daily sunlight. Slope and density were not

important factors for growth.


Title: Bacteria and Pleurotus ostreatus

Abstract: Pleurotus ostreatus, or oyster mushrooms are found all over the world. This fungus has

many benefits and can even break down toxic chemicals. In this experiment, Pleurotus ostreatus,

were grown in mushrooming bags with sterilized straw and .34 kg of acorn substrate. The

hypothesis for this experiment is that a greater presence of bacteria will inhibit the growth of the

mushrooms. After 3 months of growth, the bags were cut open and swabbed for bacteria. The

bacteria was grown and slides were made and stained for observation. The slides were observed

in a microscope. This experiment began on September 14th, 2012. The purpose of this

experiment was to find whether or not the presence of bacteria inhibited or helped Pleurotus

ostreatus growth. The research for this experiment was prompted by learning about how

Pleurotus ostreatus can be used to decomposed wastes like oil. In this experiment, knowledge of

how to more successfully grow oyster mushrooms was hoped to be achieved. Based upon the

results, I can conclude that the presence of bacteria did not inhibit or encourage the growth of

Pleurotus ostreatus.


Title: Plant Protection

Abstract: The goal of this experiment is when covering a plant with an ionic liquid, will it help

the plant survive frost. My hypothesis is; if I cover plants with an ionic liquid, then it will help

the plant survive frost. I first gather my materials. Then I cover one tray of plants with a coating

of an ionic liquid (1-Ethyl-3-methylimidazolium chloride), and one without, and put both

outside. Let it outside for 12 hours, and remove trays from outside. Then, record the

observations in data tables. Then record observations in data tables and see if plant survives and

compare data.




Title: Will C. elegans go toward the ammonia smell or go away from the smell?

Abstract: Hypothesis: I think the nematodes will go away from the ammonia because it is a

strong smell. They might not like it. I choose ammonia because when I was doing an

experiment investigating enzymes in liver, I did baking soda. I wanted something stronger and I

just choose ammonia because it was an every day chemical that really is not really recognized.

Method: Follow the procedures for the test that Michale Dunn described in ‘C. elegans

Chemotaxis Assay” and use various concentrations of ammonia.


Title: The use of adipose stem cells in promoting progenitor cells

Abstract: Adipose-derived stem cells (ASCs) are one of the most popular stem cell populations

for research in soft tissue. They are easily harvested, differentiate into multiple tissues given the

right environment, and promote vessel growth. Previous studies show ASCs from obese patients

secrete the most vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), yet reduced retention in fat grafts. I

will use a mouse model to see which patient type (lean, obese, and massive weight loss) will

create the most vascularity. I expect the obese ASCs to promote the most because of their

enhanced VEGF secretion. Future work includes isolating endothelial progenitor cells (EPCs).


Title: Aggression and Courtship

Abstract: Two female convict cichlids were exposed to one male convict cichlid. Two male

convict cichlids were exposed to one female convict cichlid. Aggressive and courtship behaviors

were totaled and statistically analyzed to determine differences between genders.


Title: UV Light and Hyallela

Abstract: Carotenoids, when consumed, can provide animals and humans with protection

against free radicals which are given off by UV rays. I tested the hypothesis that *Hyalella

azteca*, when fed a carotenoid enriched diet, would have a greater protection against UV light

exposure than *Hyalella azteca *fed a non-carotenoid diet. I started each of the two groups on

their respective diets and then exposed each group to UV lights for approximately seven hours.

After exposure, the mortality rate among the carotenoid group was significantly less than the

mortality rate among the non-carotenoid group. This shows that the *Hyalella *that were fed a

carotenoid enriched diet did, in fact, have in greater protection against UV light exposure than

*Hyalella *fed a non-carotenoid diet.


Title: Does the percentage of copper in a compound effect how deterred C. elegans are from the

compound?

Abstract: I think nematodes would be less deterred from a compound with a weaker presence of

copper and would have stronger negative taxis from pure copper. I know that they have a

negative response to copper so it seems reasonable that the more copper there is, and the less it is

mixed with other elements the greater the negative response.




Title: Before They Start Clucking

Abstract: This experiment investigated the impact of glyphosate on developing chicken

embryos. It was expected that the hearts of the embryos exposed to the glyphosate would be

delayed in their development. An in vitro procedure was used to enable easier observation of the

growth of the chicks. The chick embryos were exposed to 1 mL of .58 mg/L glyphosate solution.

The chick embryos were placed in an incubator set to 37¢ªC. A stereobinocular microscope was

used to measure and compare the hearts of the embryos. Data thus far is inconclusive.


Title: Vocal Hemorrhages

Abstract: This descriptive study explores the different types of vocal disorders and what they are

caused by. Vocal hemorrhages are the second most common vocal disorders in the world, right

behind laryngitis. Males experience different vocal issues that females because of the width in

the vocal cords. This experiment will determine if there any vocal warm-ups that can be

performed to decrease the risk of a vocal hemorrhage. Will the warm ups make a difference?

Testing will be done with and without any vocal warm ups to determine if there is any

statistically significant difference in the data.




Title: Reprodution: Carbaryl and Malathion

Abstract:

Agricultural use of commercial insecticides impacts aquatic populations. My project studies the

reproductive rates of *Hyalella azteca* when exposed to commonly used insecticides, Carbaryl

and Malathion. The purpose of this experiment is to determine if these insecticides are more

harmful to *Hyalella azteca* fertility when used in combination, rather than alone. After two

weeks in individual test serial dilutions, I studied the reproduction rates. My findings were

inconclusive as the *Hyalella azteca* died in the variable and control groups. In the second trial,

I will be making adjustments to the procedure to improve the viability rate of the test subjects.


Title: How do different solutions affect an egg cell?

Abstract: The purpose of the experiment was to figure out how an egg cell is affected by

different solutions. The hypothesis was that distilled water would make eggs grow and the salt

and sugar solutions would make the eggs shrink. After dissolving the shells on chicken eggs,

three eggs were placed in each of three solutions: distilled water, salt solution, and sugar

solution. Because of the tonicity of each solution, the eggs placed in the distilled water gained

weight and circumference, while the eggs in the other two solutions lost weight and

circumference.


Title: Does C. elegans move toward or away from orange juice?

Abstract: Hypothesis: If I put this species of nematodes in a petri dish with orange juice then

the nematodes will become alert and try to stay away. From my research this species of

nematodes does not like low pH, which orange juice has. Other nematode species effect the

growth of orange trees.


Title: Does magnetism affect the growth rate of plants

Abstract: This experiment tested the effect of magnetism on the growth rate of tomato plants.

Throughout the project, there was little difference in the plant growth in the various groups.

However, what small difference that was noticed was observed in the control group. By the end

of the experiment, the difference in growth between the groups was negligible.


Title: The Effect of Birth Control on Gender of Amphipods

Abstract: Excess estrogen from birth control can pass through into aquatic ecosystems, causing

feminization in organisms. The purpose of my project was to see if progestin-only birth control

was better for the environment than estrogen birth control. The test organisms that I used were

Hyallela azteca. I had three groups; estrogen birth control, progestin-only birth control, and

control. After a week of exposure, I examined each amphipod for a change in their second

gnathopod (which helps determine their sex). My results showed that their was not a significant

difference between

estrogen and progestin-only birth control.




Title: Effects of CuSO4 on Amphipods

Abstract: The purpose of my experiment was to determine if copper sulfate in drain cleaner and

root killers has an effect on a specific sex of aquatic life through run off. I wanted to see if there

is a difference in the mortality rates of treated females and males. I exposed the Hyalella azteca

to 0.086 mg/L of the solution and the mortality was determined. The females had a higher

mortality rate. This effects reproduction of Hyalella azteca because males need a higher mate

choice within the females to be able to reproduce.


Title: Carotenoids and Sexual Selection

Abstract: Mate selection among Hyallela azteca is what drives the progression advantageous

traits through genetic lines. To examine the effect of high carotenoid diet on mating, six - three

hundred ml plastic containers served as experimental units. Female “pods” carrying eggs in their

marsupia were placed in each unit. Carotenoid positive food was given to half of the units,

carotenoid negative food to the other half. The neonates will only ingest the food given to them.

“Wild” females will be secluded with a male form each group. Mate selection precopulatory

guarding) will be recorded to determine mate preference.


Title: HydroPonics

Abstract: The purpose of the hydroponics experiment that I am doing is to grant the people who

live in an urban environment the privilege of fresh fruits and vegetables in their homes. I created

three different designs of the hydroponics unit. The difference in these styles is the amount of

water flow. I am still conduction my experiment but the data I have collected is showing that the

Ebb Flow unit is reaping the healthiest plants. In the zebu Flow unit, the water floods and drains

the basin holding the plants in thirty minute intervals.


Title: Hyperaccumulators and Hydraulic Fracturing

Abstract: Can chemicals from a hydraulic fracturing solution be absorbed by the rapeseed plant?

I am using the chemicals found from a government study for the chemicals in the chemical

solution. I placed the plants in a bath of their solution so they can absorb the solution they need.

I placed 100 plants in distilled water, tap water, and the chemical solution. After allowing the

plants to grow in their baths for four weeks, I measured the plant height and the leaf length

before taking them to Saint Francis University to get tested to see what chemicals are left inside

them.


Title: What is the effect of carbaryl on worms?

Abstract: I have read that carbaryl could harm the worms (Lumbricus terrestris) so I am going to

see if It does by checking when the carbaryl is in the dirt. I will be looking at my containers to



see if the carbaryl kills them or not. The worms will have water and food in the container. I have

recorded the amount of carbaryl in the container and I also will record the how each container is.


Title: Hydroponics- yes or no?

Abstract: The purpose of this experiment was to see if a hydroponic wick and water culture

system would produce larger and healthier radishes and lettuce then plants grown in soil. I

hypothesis that the wick system will produce the healthiest plants followed by water culture and

soil. The plants were planted in twenty-one grams of perlite and soil. Four lettuce and four radish

seed were evenly pushed into sixteen containers of the three systems. After one months growth

plants were taken out to biomass. The soil system grew the healthiest plants with the greatest

biomass.


Title: Abiotic Changes and Aphid Success

Abstract: Aphids are destructive crop insects. Generally, aphids reproduce partheogeneically. In

some invertebrates abiotic factors may force a change in reproductive strategy. This investigation

focused on increased soil nutrients on aphid reproduction rates. By altering soil nutrient levels,

aphid reproduction rates and methods (partheogenic to sexual) will change. Three Fava Bean

Plants were grown in normal soil (the control), three in Miracle Gro® enhanced soil, and three

were grown in Miracle Gro® soil with an extra concentrated amount. Ten aphids were placed on

each of the 12 encaged plants. Aphid reproduction was tracked. The experiment is still

underway; results are pending.


Title: The Correlation Between Sinus Arrhythmia and Various Health Parameters

Abstract: The purpose of this experiment is to find whether or not Sinus Arrhythmia can be used

as a health parameter or if it changes.


Title: Molecules that Promote Axon Regeneration in Spinal Cords

Abstract: Injured central nervous system neurons, such as that of the spinal cord, do not

regenerate axons. However, peripheral neurons, such as dorsal root ganglia neurons, usually do

regenerate. My hypothesis was that nerve regeneration is possible due to the environment that

the neurons are exposed to, rather than the neurons themselves. I assessed my hypothesis by

testing the impact of different molecules on the in vivo growth of dissociated spinal cord neurons

and dorsal root ganglia neurons derived from chick embryos. I then observed the molecules’

effect on axonal growth through immunostaining of the axons, allowing me to clearly see them

under a microscope. When both types of neurons grew in known axonal-promoting molecules

such as laminin, fibronectin, and collagen, I observed axonal outgrowth in all three molecules.

However, when I grew these neurons without any axonal-promoting molecule, they had no

axonal growth. Therefore, from these observations, I have found that the lack of axonal growth

in spinal cord neurons is primarily due to the environment, rather than due to the inherent

properties of cells in the peripheral and central nervous system.




Title: Ensuring a Drug's Aim is True

Abstract: The purpose of this experiment is to determine how accurately a drug binds to its

target protein and whether there are other proteins to which the drug may bind. Specifically, I

will be looking at the non-target proteins to which the Ebola virus attaches.


Title: What is on Your Toothbrush?

Abstract: People clean and change their toothbrushes in order to keep bacteria off of them, but if

the toothbrush is placed in a different location or has a cap over it will that help to lessen the

bacteria manifesting on the object? This experiment deciphered which area and covering best

helps to lessen the bacteria on a toothbrush. The toothbrushes were used as though any other

toothbrush would be used by using them twice a day in brushing the same teeth. The

toothbrushes will be placed one with a full cap, one with a small cap, and one with no cap above

the sink and in the medicine cabinet. The experimenter believes that the toothbrush lying on the

bathroom sink without any cap will obtain the most bacteria while the toothbrush in the medicine

cabinet with a full cap because of their proximity to the toilet and how much air they come in

contact with.


Title: Changes in Bladder Morphology after Surgery to Repair Pelvic Organ Prolapse

Abstract: De novo stress urinary incontinence is a symptom that many women experience after

having a pelvic organ prolapse repair surgery with implanted mesh. Abdominal

sacrocolpopexies, a pelvic organ prolapse repair surgery, were performed on Rhesus

macaques. After twelve weeks, the bladders were removed and biopsied. An assay was

prepared to test for the glycosaminoglycan content, increased by injury, in anterior

and posterior sides of the bladder. T-tests showed that there was no increase in

glycosaminoglycan content in the posterior bladders. Further biochemical and

biomechanical tests are needed to analyze the cause of the stress urinary

incontinence after repair surgery.


Title: Are newly registered pesticides truly safe?

Abstract: Ecologists have worked to create pesticides that do not harm organisms in the

occasion of agricultural runoff. ECOTOX databases do not consider the pH levels of water when

testing their effectiveness to organisms. The purpose of this experiment was to determine

whether or not the pH of water might compound effect of the pesticide, resulting in unpredicted

harm to aquatic organisms. There were six groups tested. Hyalella azteca were exposed to

Monterey Ready to Spray in acidic, neutral and basic water. The control was organisms in acidic,

neutral and basic water only.




Title: Effects of Chemicals and Pesticides of Bioluminscence

Abstract: Algae and certain bacterium can create a natural light during bioluminescence. Vibrio

fischeri are one of these types of bacteria. When bioluminescent bacteria, such as Vibrio fisheri,

are exposed to different natural chemicals and common pesticides, it can affect the intensity of

the light and be very dangerous to the organism. This experiment will be carried out to see how

the bioluminescence of Vibrio fischeri can be altered and become less active when chemicals

and pesticides such as atrazine and permethrin are exposed to it.


Title: Catch The Beat

Abstract: ABSTRACT

Title of Project: Catch the Beat!

The problem is, “Will the tempo of music affect teenagers’ heart rate and blood pressure?” It

is hypothesized: that music with a faster tempo will cause the heart rate and blood pressure

of teenagers to increase the most. A brief procedure of the experiment is: Teenagers listened to

four different tempos of music and recorded both blood pressure and heart rate after each tempo.

Data was taken and recorded for resting heart rate (control) as well as heart rate and blood

pressure after each tempo. The results did not support the hypothesis.


Title: Seperating Mscromolecules

Abstract: In this experiment the goal is to separate macromolecules of two brands of food dye

through an electrophoresis chamber. Electrophoresis is the process in which an electrical current

is sent through agar gel and carries the negative molecules towards the positive end of the

chamber. This is a visual way to view the multiple different macromolecules in one sample. This

is commonly used in separating DNA, since nucleotides are negative they will spread out within

the gel, making an unique pattern. Thus an individual’s DNA can be compared to another sample

through electrophoresis. This application of my experiment caught my interest.


Title: Scuba Breath

Abstract: "Do male scuba divers consume less air than female scuba divers?" My hypothesis is

"If I compare the air consumption of male and female scuba divers, then the male scuba diver

will have better air consumption." I will be testing six different scuba divers three males and

three females. For my testing all divers will go through the same dive school and during testing

the divers will be accompanied by four scuba diving teachers. This after taking data and analysis

i will be able to tell who has the best air consumption, males or females.


Title: Leaf Litter - Functional Diversity

Abstract: In trying to determine which leaf species has the greatest effect on functional diversity

in ponds, I placed leaves of Acer rubrum, Quercus alba, Tsuga canadensis, in three units each

with boiled pond water. Three units were prepared with a mixture of all species. The leaves



soaked for 8 days. Each unit was assessed using BioLog EcoPlates, and pH was tested. I

hypothesized that Hemlock would have the greatest positive effect on the functional diversity but

preliminary results indicate that the mixture of species produced the greatest increase in the

functional diversity.


Title: Effectiveness of Clay Water Filter

Abstract: Having clean, safe water to drink is one of the largest problems in suffering third

world countries. A solution to this are clay water filters, which filter the turbidity, and water

purification tablets. In this experiment, I was testing to see if a water filter made out of clay and

sawdust alone can effectively filter out bacteria from water. I used water from a dirty pond as my

contaminated water. I first tested the water before I passed it through the filter. Once the water

was finished filtering through, I tested the filtered water by inoculating agar Petri dishes.


Title: Removal of Cells from a Porcine Kidney to Make a Biological Scaffold

Abstract: Because of the shortage of kidney donors, I want to find a way to provide enough

kidneys to the people who need transplants. One possibility may be to create kidneys from

kidney scaffolding and living cells. Porcine kidneys collected from a packing house will be

decellularized to create a biological scaffold of the kidney as an initial step in addressing this

problem.


Title: Addicted

Abstract: The purpose of this experiment was to see the effect of a caffeinated soda beverage on

reaction time. If given a double serving of a caffeinated soda beverage, then reaction time will

decrease. The hypothesis was tested by giving subjects different amounts of a caffeinated soda

beverage and then having them take a reaction time test. The hypothesis was partially supported

because but 1 serving of the caffeinated soda beverage had the greatest impact on reaction time.

Two servings did have an effect, but not as much.


Title: Is it possible for C. elegans to detect an electrical current in the environment?

Abstract: Hypothesis: If there is an electrical current in the environment, I think it is possible

for nematodes to detect the current. For a hundred years, scientists have been testing electric

currents on many organisms. Amoebae, paramecia, hydrae, rotifers and shrimp show

galvanotaxis. These other experiments are why I believe it is possible for nematodes to detect an

electrical current.

Method: Create an electrical current. Analyze if the nematodes response to the current.




Title: Effects of Disinfectant Dilution on Bacterial Resistance

Abstract: The purpose of the experiment is to determine whether the amount of bacterial

resistance developed depends on the concentration of disinfectant the bacteria is exposed to. The

bacteria exposed to a higher concentration of a disinfectant will develop more resistance. The

bacterium used was Escherichia Coli strain K-12 and the disinfectant used was household bleach.

10%, 20%, and 40% dilutions were made in 5000μL solutions. The bacterium was exposed

to each dilution. The most resistant bacteria, based on the zone of inhibition, were exposed to the

same dilution again for a total of 4 times. The resistance was measured by the amount of change

in the size of the zone of inhibition. The bacteria became more resistant as it was re-exposed.

The bacteria exposed to the 40% dilution had the largest decrease in its zone of inhibition. My

hypothesis was supported. Bacteria exposed to a higher concentration of a disinfectant will

develop more resistance than bacteria exposed to a lower concentration.

Senior – Chemistry (SCH), 9th-12th Grade


Project Number: SCH100 Grade: 9

Title: Surface Tension of Water and Lipid Hydrophobic Behavior

Abstract: In this project, we analyzed the effect of various kinds of saturation in cooking oils on

the oil’s hydrophobic nature. This project gave insight on a two of the most important molecules

in biochemistry: lipids and water. We saw how the introduction of different oils causes chaos on

water’s surface causing a transparency to move. Melted butter produces the greatest chaos and

canola oil the least amount of chaos. In the future, experimentation with more oils like Palm, or

sunflower, or tea seed, can allow understanding of these molecules to expand.


Title: Does the Type of Fabric Affect Its Flammability?

Abstract: To determine if synthetic fabrics are more flammable than natural fabrics. Synthetic

fabrics will ignite and burn quicker than natural fabrics. Test samples of white natural and

synthetic fabrics which were similar in size, thread count, density and weave pattern were cut. A

horizontal burn test was performed on each fabric test sample and the length of time required for

each test sample to ignite was determined and recorded. All work was done under the direct

supervision of a trained laboratory professional. Experiment still in progress.


Title: Green Filters

Abstract: The purpose of my experiment was to test the effectiveness of natural filters in their

ability to improve urban runoff quality. Urban runoff has gained more attention as water quality

standards have recently raised. The natural filters used included bark, sand, peat moss, charcoal

and stone. I simulated my own urban runoff, filtered it and tested for various pollutants. Each

filter was set up using mesh, beakers and vats in which the pollutant was run through several

times. Samples were taken and tested. Compared to the control, natural filters were effective in

making changes to the quality of the water.


Title: A Simple Test for Gases

Abstract: The project aims to answer the question if some acids and bases give off hydrogen

and/or oxygen gases during Electrolysis. Conflicting information is found about what, if any

gases are produced. This experiment aims to answer the question experimentally.


Title: Vitamin C and Orange Juice

Abstract: In this experiment, I used the titration method with starch and iodine to dilute several

different types of orange juices. I also used a solution made with a Vitamin C tablet as my

control and as my basis of comparison. The amount of Vitamin C in each orange juice was

determined by the amount of iodine needed to titrate the orange juice. The more iodine needed to

titrate, the more Vitamin C the orange juice contained. In my final results, the freshly squeezed

OJ contained the most Vitamin C.




Title: Analysis of Caffeine in Coffee

Abstract: The purpose of this experiment was to determine the caffeine content in various coffee

samples on comparison of milligram per liter and milligram per dollar to compare caffeine

values amongst competitors. By "salting out" a coffee sample, caffeine becomes more soluble in

ethyl acetate than the aqueous coffee solution. The ethyl acetate is vaporized from the beaker

with use of heat to recrystallize the caffeine. The beaker is then massed and compared to its

empty mass. Experimentation and data analysis are ongoing.


Title: Carpets in Grape Danger?

Abstract: The project name is "Carpets in Grape Danger?", the category is Chemistry and it is

10th Grade level. The purpose of this experiment was to test the effects of different cleaners on

grape juice stains. In this experiment everything was measured and tested fairly and also

accurately. When the experiment was completed, out of the three cleaners Resolve,409 and

Woolite, Resolve cleaned up the stain the nicest and made it less noticeable. Resolve has an

active ingredient in it called hydrogen perioxide which could have contributed to cleaning up the

stain.


Title: Clean Water

Abstract: In many areas of the world, clean water is hard to come by. People often only have

access to seawater or to dirty water from ponds, streams, or rain. In this study, different aquatic

plants were tested to determine their effectiveness in filtering pond water. Plants were grown in

separate buckets using the same soil for one week, and measures of water quality were taken at

the beginning and end of the experiment. Extended analysis and results will be available on the

day of presentation.


Title: Nitrate Retention Chemistry II

Abstract: This project explored if activated carbon could reduce the loss of manure nitrate into

near-surface groundwater. A one-month outdoor exposure study was performed using five

55x65x10cm soil trays equipped with drains to capture natural drainage water. Equivalent

drainage water volumes were collected from each tray over the test period (rsd = 3.5%). Ion

selective electrode analysis of drainage water samples were employed to demonstrate that

additions of activated carbon (from 10-40% by weight cow manure) were effective at reducing

manure nitrate loss to near-surface ground water by an average of 37%, relative to soil fertilized

with unmodified cow manure.


Title: Plop, plop; fizz, fizz; the better antacid is...

Abstract: In this experiement I will be testing the effects of different antacids on the stomach

acid. Through this experiment, I will conclude which antacid is the most effective, whether it is

an OTC or homemade antacid.




Title: Effectiveness of Water Filters

Abstract: Test various types of water filtration systems and their effectiveness at moving

common contaminants. Filtered water samples will be tested for chlorine, copper, lead, and

carbonate using a test strip kit to determine which filters are the best for removing these

elements.


Title: See Ya, Vitamin C: Effects of cooking on vitamin C levels in citrus fruit

Abstract: Does cooking affect the vitamin C level of fruit? This question was answered in this

experiment. The purpose of the experiment was to determine whether citrus fruit was healthier

when eaten raw or cooked. The hypothesis was that cooking would lower the vitamin C levels of

the fruit. Different fruits were tested in both raw and cooked forms. The samples were tested for

vitamin C using an iodine indicator. Darker colors indicated less vitamin C was present. The

results showed that cooking lowers the levels of vitamin C in fruits.


Title: Laundry Detergent Enzymes

Abstract: Purpose: to see what antioxidant is most effective against free radicals

100 mg of antioxidants will be mixed with 3% hydrogen peroxide. Water works test strips will

be used to observe the remaining amount of peroxide. A control will be done with peroxide only.

The trials will be done 5 times and will be graphed and analyzed.


Title: Efficiency of Combustible substances

Abstract: In this experiment, I tested multiple household fuels to see which fuel is most efficient

for light and heat production. The purpose of this experiment was to determine which fuel is

most efficient based on the cost, light production, and heat production. I completed this

experiment by burning 9 different fuels (wax, kerosene, wood, wood charcoal, charcoal, diesel

fuel, rubbing alcohol, and coal) and measuring their efficiency against each other using a light

probe and a thermometer in water to measure output. This experiment is continuing.


Title: Bacterial Transformation Efficiency

Abstract: Could bacteria be used as a manufacturing power house for proteins? Could we

manipulate the genetic make-up to utilize bacteria's short duplication time to rapidly make

medically and commercially useful proteins? In this experiment I hope to answer these question

by measuring the bacterial transformation efficiency as a function of plasmid DNA

concentration. I hope to show its practical used in the real world, such as having insulin

producing bacteria control blood glucose in diabetics.




Title: Does cotton content impact burn characteristics of clothing

Abstract: The purpose of this experiment was to determine if the cotton content of sleepwear

pants affected the burn characteristics of the pants. To test this I timed how long it took for a

10cm by 10cm piece of fabric to catch on fire and to extinguish. All four products, 100% cotton,

90% cotton and 10% polyester, 55% cotton and 45% polyester and 100% polyester, ignited

anywhere from 2-4 seconds, but the extinguish time varied. The extinguish times ended up

proving my original hypothesis wrong, the 55% cotton and 45% polyester sleepwear pants took

the longest time to extinguish.


Title: Insulin Pump Powered by the Oxidation of Glucose

Abstract: Diabetic patients are disadvantaged by the continuous need to not only monitor their

intake but also pump insulin into the blood stream based on the amount of glucose present in the

body. In this experiment, a battery, operating based on the amount of glucose present, is

designed to eradicate this shortcoming. The battery has an anode Glucose 1-oxidase, cathode of

methylene blue, and separator. Various glucose concentrations are added, producing electricity.

This experiment is designed to test whether insulin therapy tailored to dynamic blood glucose

concentration is effective and specifically tests for the direct correlation between the amount of

energy produced in this reaction and the glucose concentration.


Title: The Plausibility of Creating a Biological Battery

Abstract: My goal is to create a battery that generates an electrical charge by harnessing the

electrons relaeased by the mitochondria of yeast cells. I will lyse the cells then introduce them to

an inhibitor of the ATP synthesis reaction. This causes the mitohcondria to release positively

charged electrons which I will harness as a power source for the battery.


Title: Hydroponics or Soil?

Abstract: The point of this project was to see if the plants I chose would be able to grow in

hydroponics. On the first day of my project I bought the seeds of the plants that I wanted to grow

(spinach, pea, and pepper), and I put them inside of water to reactivate them. Then on the second

day, I planted the seeds and started my observations inside of a journal. Over the time span of

when I was growing the plants in regular soil, I looked for the changes in number of plants and

health. Then When I transferred the plants into their specific pots (Hydroponic, soil with

nutrients, and soil with no nutrients) I started looking for differences in height, health, and

special details. All of this was recorded in my journal. From my project, I learned so far that all

the plants that I grew are able to grow in hydroponics. The only exception is that the spinach

plants were very thin by the end of my project. The implications of this project are that the plants

I grew are able to grow in hydroponics. Thus, the plants in those genera are also able to grow.




Title: Where Does the Heat Go?

Abstract: The purpose is to determine how the temperature of a mixture of water and

ammonium nitrate changes with the amount of ammonium nitrate dissolved in the water. Test:

10g, 20g, 30g, 40g, and 50g of ammonium nitrate in 100mL of water. Record the starting

temperature of the water every trial. Record the temperature every 15 seconds until it stabilizes.

Calculate the heat energy value using the formula q=cm(T1-T2). 10g had an average

temperature of 18.5°C, 20g- 15.3°C, 30g- 12°C, 40g- 11.3°C, 50g- 11.3°C. As the temperature

decreased the amount of heat lost increased. 10g has the lowest and 50g has the highest.


Title: Do Whitening Toothpastes Work?

Abstract: I stained porcelain egg holders with both both blueberry juice and coffee. Then using

six different types of toothpaste, I periodically brushed each stain. I then ranked the effectiveness

of each toothpaste based on how much stain each toothpaste removed.


Title: Will different wood species, used to construct residential doors, affect burn time when

subjected to fire?

Abstract: This experiment looks at the time needed to burn through a variety of wood samples

often used for interior doors when constructing residences. The purpose of the experiment was

to find which wood species burns slowest, thus providing a longer time for escape during a house

fire. The types of wood tested included white pine, oak, african mahogany, poplar, and MDF( a

manufactured material). It was hypothesized that the oak would take the longest time since this

wood is most commonly used for interior doors. The results showed that the mahogany took the

longest time to burn while the poplar burned the quickest.


Title: Analysis of the BPA content of Water bottles via Fluorometry

Abstract: In this investigation, I investigated the correlation between the disposability of a water

bottle and its BPA content (as measured by percent of mass). Different samples were obtained

from 10 non-disposable and 7 disposable bottles. They were incubated in water, and the resulting

solution underwent fluorometry. Via a chi-squared test, I accepted the alternate hypothesis that

disposability and BPA content are intercorrelated (p = 0.01024). Upon examining the statistical

distribution of BPA content, I concluded that generally disposable water bottles have a higher

BPA content than non-disposable bottles.


Title: The Affects of Laundry Detergent on a T-shirts Flammability

Abstract: The purpose of this experiment was to determine if laundry detergent changes a t-

shirt’s flammability. I chose this experiment because I wanted to see if different laundry

detergents and laundry softeners have a significant impact on flammability. To perform my

experiment I first had to buy a pack of t-shirts and the different detergents and softeners. I then



washed the shirts in the different detergents and cut them into equal sized squares. I then burned

the different squares and collected results. The experimentation is continuing.


Title: Illuminating the Evidence

Abstract: Abstract

The purpose of this experiment is to determine the effect of temperature on luminol. The

hypothesis is if the water temperature is higher than room temperature, then the luminol reaction

will be longer and brighter. The hypothesis was tested by observing luminol reactions with

different water temperatures and comparing the brightness and length. The luminol mixed with

room temperature water was the brightest and lasted the longest. The hypothesis was not

supported because the luminol mixed with hot water did not last the longest and was not the

brightest.


Title: Nanotubes in Dye Sensitized Solar Cells

Abstract: Dye Sensitized Solar Cells (DSSC’s) utilize dyes to absorb sunlight and convert the

sunlight into electricity. In this study, DSSC’s are constructed utilizing dyes derived from three

plants native to Western Pennsylvania. The three species utilized have never been tested in

DSSC’s. Multiple DSSC’s are made with each native dye, and the efficiency of the dyes is

tested under a variety of light conditions meant to simulate various times of day and levels of

cloudiness. In addition, the study examines the effects of incorporating carbon nanotubes into

the DSSC’s counter electrode, which is hypothesized to increase efficiency. Statistical testing is

utilized to test this hypothesis as well as hypotheses regarding differences in efficiencies of the

three native dyes.


Title: Get Ready for Winter: Which type of Salt Melts Ice Faster?

Abstract: Different types of salt are used commercially to melt salt from road surfaces. These

salts include Calcium Chloride, Magnesium Chloride and Sodium Chloride. This project was

designed to determine which of these salts was able to melt ice the fastest when tested at room

temperature. The melting rate was determined by measuring the volume of ice collected over

time, including a control sample with no salt. The research demonstrated that Calcium Chloride

was able to melt salt the fastest, with a consistently higher melting rate that Magnesium

Chloride, Sodium Chloride or a mixture of the two salts.


Title: Futuristic Fuel of Today

Abstract: The purpose of my experiment was to determine which type of oil, (Corn, Peanut,

Safflower, Soybean, and Canola) would have the lowest gel point and is most cost efficient when

made into biodiesel. I had to do research before I preformed the experiment. My hypothesis is

that the Corn and Soybean oils will have the lowest gel points and be the most cost efficient. The

procedure itself consisted of titrating, mixing Sodium Hydroxide with Methanol, create the fuel,

remove the glycerol, watch the biodiesel, and then test the cold flow properties. This is done by



testing for the gel points or the point at which the biodiesel would begin to cloud and possibly

clog filters. Canola oil had the lowest gel point, followed by Corn Oil, then Soybean Oil. Canola

oil was also the least expensive. However, Corn oil was not the second least expensive in fact it

was the most expensive. Therefore soybean, which had the third lowest gel point and was the

second least expensive, would be the second most reasonable oil to buy. After completing the

experiment, I compared all data and concluded that my hypothesis was correct.


Title: Effects of Temperature on Batteries

Abstract: This purpose of this experiment was to test whether or not colder temperatures have

an effect on the lifetime of batteries. I hypothesized that the colder the temperature the shorter

the life of the batteries would be. To test this, three temperatures were used; 700 F (210C), 410F

(50C), and 320F (00C). The same flashlights and same batteries were used in each trial for each

temperature so that the only variable would be the temperature. By observing and recording the

effects of the different temperatures in each trial, I was able to confirm my hypothesis. See graph

for specific results.


Title: Water Content in Ethanol

Abstract: The purpose of this project is to determine which fuel additive is the most effective in

preventing ethanol from absorbing ethanol. Te hypothesis states if six different fuel additives are

added to ethanol then the ethanol treated with the seafoam brand additive will prevent the most

water absorption in the ethanol. The ethanol fuel additive mix will set in a chemical hood for two

weeks then will be distilled to separate the ethanol from the water. The data will then be used to

determine which fuel additive prevented the most water from being absorbed into the ethanol.


Title: Battle btw Sunscreen and UV Radiation

Abstract: Skin cancer is the most common type of cancer in United States, and two million

people are diagnosed with it every year. Sunscreens are the most common products used to

protect your skin from ultraviolet radiation. There are several types of sunscreens available in the

market today, making it harder to choose the right sunscreen. The purpose of my project is to

find how the sunscreens’ effectiveness relates to their SPF and their chemical contents. I made a

12.5, 25 and 37.5 µ thickness film of the sunscreens and measured the ultraviolet radiation

using an optometer. Lotions exhibited a better correlation to the SPF and not the sprays. The

sunscreens containing chemical agents blocked more ultraviolet radiation than the ones

containing Ti and Zn oxide.


Title: Boldest Tie-Dye

Abstract: Are there certain shirts better for tie-dying the boldest? In this experiment testing

different fabrics, 100% cotton shirts are the boldest! Whatever is the choice of shirt, do not use a

shirt containing a lot of polyester, rayon, spandex or nylon. If a shirt containing too much of that

fabric is used, there will not be much tie-dye, a blob of colors on a shirt (polyester), or not much



color at all (nylon)! When testing out different shirts for bold tie-dye, make sure colors are

applied the same way on each shirt to get accurate results.


Title: Got Vitamin C?

Abstract: The purpose is to measure Vitamin C in various types of orange juices using the

iodine titration method. To find the amount of Vitamin C in a sample, one needs to know how

many drops of iodine solution are needed to react with known amount of Vitamin C. A 1 mg/ml

solution of Vitamin C using water, Vitamin C tablet, and starch will be prepared. The number of

drops of iodine solution needed to change the color of the mixture will be determined. Freshly

squeezed home-made orange juice, store bought not from concentrate, and frozen concentrate

will be used.


Title: The Effect Different Ingredients and Baking Methods Have on the Density of a Product

Abstract: The consistency of baked goods is influenced by a number of chemical reactions,

including cross-linking of gluten, the protein in flour, as well as the generation of carbon dioxide

from acid base reactions. There will be three series of experiments to assess the effect of the

variables on density (mass per volume). The first will use 5 types of flour with varying

concentrations of gluten. The second will use bread flour and varying kneading times, keeping

the rest of the recipe constant. The third will involve cupcakes with varying amounts of baking

soda from zero to two teaspoons.


Title: Effect of Different Oils on Biodiesel

Abstract: The purpose of this experiment is to determine if the usage of varying-Grade base oils

for biodiesel affects the combustion of the resultant biodiesel. To test this, I decided to saturate a

lamp wick with 1mL of each of the biodiesels I prepared with different oils and light it on fire,

recording time until the flame went out. For a control, I used plain lamp wicks. For a

comparison, I used real diesel fuel. Data is still being collected and processed. Safety measures

were put in place.


Title: Water Vs. Acid

Abstract: The purpose of my experiment is to test to see if fruit can conduct electricity. First I

have to test the resistance of the fruit. To do this I just put nails (metal) in to the fruit 3 inches

apart. My data is still being collected but so far it shows that the acid fruit has the least amount of

resistance then the water based fruit. Since my data isn't done i can't give a conclusion




Title: Galvanic Cell's Usage and Effectiveness

Abstract: Every year, people use millions of batteries or some sort of portable energy. The

problem is, some donât last very long and some do! Why is this? This project is

about which galvanic cell material has the most voltage and provides the most power over a

period of time. In the future, I hope we can replace batteries that donât work as

well and save some of the natural gasses we are using, and use whichever material proves to be

the best, on a big scale. I thought of this project hoping that it will provide an alternate energy

source.


Title: Electrolyte Challenge: Gatorade G series 02 v. Red Bull

Abstract: When athletes sweat they lose electrolytes which need to be replenished for the body

to work properly. This experiment was conducted to determine which sports drink (Gatorade G

series 02 or Red Bull) would have the most electrolytes available for replenishing those lost

during workouts. The amount of electrolytes in each liquid were determined using a

conductance sensor. It was determined that the Gatorade G series 02 contained significantly

more electrolytes that the other liquids.


Title: Comparing Small-Scale Renewable Energy Sources

Abstract: In this project I will compare the efficiency and effectiveness of three different types

of renewable energy on a small scale: hydro energy, solar energy, and wind energy. I expect the

wind to produce the most energy, then the solar, then the hydro with the least energy. To test

this, I will build an apparatus testing each out of common materials. Then I will set each under

it's prime conditions (i.e. under a fan, hose, or lamp) and observe how much energy it uses and

how much it produces. I will then graph and compare my data.


Title: Energy Synergy

Abstract: This experiment is to determine the optimal conditions of a hydrogen fuel cell. The

fuel cell was solar-powered and battery-powered. The volts produced by the hydrogen fuel cell

and the amount of Hydrogen and Oxygen gas produced determine the efficiency of each method

as well of the cost of each power source.

Senior – Computer Science & Math (SCM), 9th-12th Grade


Project Number: SCM100 Grade: 10

Title: Sign Language Translator/Learning Helper

Abstract: The purpose of my experiment was to create an application for the deaf, utilizing the

Kinect for Windows sensor, that allows the American Sign Language (ASL) user to sign into the

camera, and have this be converted to text. It also allows for a second user (who does not know

ASL) to speak into the microphone, and have their words be converted to text, allowing the two

users to keep up a conversation. I programmed in visual C#. My end product also included

another mode, allowing a user, trying to learn ASL, to get feedback on how they are signing.


Title: Finding Optimal Review Spacing

Abstract: I created an algorithm that to help people to learn and remember information as

efficiently as possible. It attempts to determine the best time for a user to review previously

learned information by using past performance to construct a model of the rates at which the user

learns and forgets various kinds of information. I then compared my algorithm to the most

commonly used memory software algorithm, which does not attempt to create a user-specific

model of memory. I tested both algorithms on a group of seminary and English as a second

language (ESL) students.


Title: Population Recovery and Evolution

Abstract: My goal is to understand the age and gene distribution as a species grows from a few

organisms and how factors such as food can impact the species over time. I would also like to

recognize the impacts on an ecosystem the growth of the species would cause in a simple

predator prey model. I expect to see a relative lack of genetic variation as a result of the small

number of initial organisms. As a result, I think the species will have a hard time adapting to the

environment.


Title: Password Security

Abstract: The purpose of this experiment is to determine what type of password is most secure,

when type is

classified by character set and length. The procedure and testing will be done by using a program

to test several different people’s passwords by using the following criteria: 1. The password

should be at least 8 characters long. 2. The password should contain at least one uppercase and at

least one lowercase

letter. 3. The password should have at least one digit.


Title: The Use of Finite Automata in Private Key Cryptosystems

Abstract: In today’s cyber-society, the need to have reliably secure connections is at an all time

high . My project will test a new method of encryption that utilizes simplistic finite automata, or

simple machines, to securely encrypt data without the need for processor intensive floating point

operations or matrix manipulation. This project will test an implementation of a finite-automata



cryptosystem versus an implementation of 256 bit AES, which is the industry standard. The two

cryptosystems will be compared in strength of security, speed, and memory footprint. The

security portion of testing will be based upon time it would take to crack the encryption seed.

The memory and speed portion of testing will be tested upon multiple trials of encrypting, and

decrypting a 1 gb text file by 80 bytes, to simulate packets. During the encryption of the 1 gb the

ram footprint of both cryptosystems will be recorded, and the time of encryption and decryption

will also be recorded. These tests will be done on 3 computers; a 4.1 ghz 8 gb machine, a 2.8

ghz 8 gb machine, and a 1.8 ghz 2gb machine. At time of submission, testing has not been

completed.


Title: JAVA-Driven Automated Parking Space Locator

Abstract: Finding parking spaces can be not only challenging and frustrating but also a

tremendous waste of our resources. An increasing number of vehicles can electronically

determine and transmit their location (e.g. OnstarTM system). Utilizing this technology, I

created computer software algorithms to create a more efficient parking space location device.

By creating a parking lot simulation programmed in JAVA, the software measured how quickly

cars could find parking spaces. To determine the fairness and efficiency of the system, amount of

time each car waited for a parking spot and distance each car traveled to find a parking spot were

analyzed.


Title: Optical Character Recognition (OCR) in Driving Scenarios

Abstract: The purpose of this experiment was to implement an OCR, a device which recognizes

characters from given an image, while driving. This was done first by writing code to process the

image to be suitable for the OCR and then giving the processed image to the OCR. Given the

image, the OCR would output the words written on the image. The given images were of

common road signs. Possible future applications include using the OCR in not only driving

scenarios but also in other real-world applications such as handicapped persons.


Title: A Statistical Analysis of Human Obesity

Abstract: The task of this project is to use mathematical processes, including the measures of

central tendency and standard deviation, to analyze obesity data. In addition, the project uses

scatter plots, Pearson’s product moment correlation, and the least- squares line to describe the

relationships between obesity rates and life expectancy, gross national income, and literacy rate.

Finally, the project examines whether weight classification (including obesity) is dependent on

race and/or income level with the use of the chi- squared test. If applicable, more advanced tests

will be used to further analyze obesity. Results will be provided at the fair.


Title: Development of a World Series Prediction Formula

Abstract: The purpose of this experiment is to create a formula that can predict the baseball

playoffs. There are several formulas that can be used to predict baseball: Money Ball, Kerry



Whisnant’s Formula, and the Hack #56 Theory. Kerry Whisnant’s Formula was less than 47.6%

accurate. I created a formula by using major baseball statistics from batting, fielding, and

pitching then assigned a maximum point value for the team with the better statistic. Some

categories were weighted more than others like ERA. This formula was 52.4% accurate. No

formula that can accurately predict baseball playoff games because of the human factor.


Title: Improving Internet Password Security

Abstract: My goal was programming Java applications allowing the computer to identify

whether the user was the account owner by adding time as a variable. To accomplish this, I first

programmed an input program to calculate the average time. Then, I created a second program

comparing the average speed of the user to the bounds set, displaying “yes” if in the bounds of

the account owner. The process repeated with time purposefully altered by pausing. After testing

49 students, time was successfully used as a variable, as the program was 100% effective without

the pause, and 92% effective with pause added.


Title: Superadditivity and Subadditivity in Fair Division

Abstract: I examine the classic problem of fair division of a piecewise homogeneous good.

Previous work developed algorithms satisfying various combinations of fairness notions (such as

proportionality, envy-freeness, equitability, and Pareto-optimality). However, the previous work

assumed that all utility functions are additive. Recognizing that additive functions accurately

model utility only in certain situations, I investigate superadditive and subadditive utility

functions. Next, I propose and test a new division protocol that utilizes nonlinear programming.

Finally, I prove theoretical results that address (a) relationships between fairness notions, and (b)

the orthogonal issue of division efficiency (i.e., the price of satisfying particular fairness

notions).


Title: GPS-Based Automated Texting App for Driver Safety

Abstract: The purpose of this project is to create an iPhone Application that can use GPS to

sense when user is driving. If so, the app should be able to block incoming text messages and

phones and automatically inform the person on the other end that the user is currently driving via

text message. If such a product can be created, this will greatly improve driver safety and

hopefully reduce accidents.


Title: March Madness Revisited: Round by Round Prediction Models

Abstract: College basketball culminates in a championship tournament commonly known as

“March Madness”. This project is an extension of a previous project and was designed to

determine if the previous models tested (Simple Linear, Simple Quadratic, Simple Square Root)

behaved similarly when results were analyzed on a round by round basis. An excel spreadsheet

was used to help analyze the data. Results indicated that a simple linear model provided the best



fit to historical data in only three of the six rounds, with the sum of squared deviations being

reduced by 3 – 78 % as compared to the All Rounds model.


Title: filmmaker's toolbox

Abstract: The goal is to obtain a high quality image while using the camera on an iPhone that is

filming against a green screen. The expected outcome of this project is that the iPhone camera

will be able to use chroma-keying and light sensitivity to identify areas of a solid color screen

that are not quite the same as the rest. These images can then be edited to make the color more

even.


Title: Solving the Puzzle of the Stock Market Using Mathematics

Abstract: The stock market has been an asset used to create an additional way for citizens to

acquire more income. The possibility of loss and gain is uncertain. However, if a pattern was

discovered in the value of stocks, methods could be used to benefit those who use the market.

This experiment required 3 different equations to determine whether a pattern was possible or

not. The goal is to determine if applying mathematical theories to sets of numbers can predict

future numbers in the set with an accuracy of 95% or higher.


Title: Analysis of the Coupon Collector's Problem

Abstract: My project will analyze the “Coupon Collector’s Problem”. For example, a company

issues a “set” of distinct items and places one of the items in packages of their products. The

customer does not know what item they will get until they purchase the product. The two

questions of interest are: What is the expected number of products that must be purchased before

a complete set of items is obtained? What are the chances of obtaining the complete set for a

given number of purchases? I will demonstrate specific real-world examples and analyze them

using mathematical derivation and a computer simulation.


Title: Evolution Simulator

Abstract: In my project I plan to create a simulation of populations of simulated creatures under

various selective pressures, and the resulting changes in the proportions of alleles over time. I

then plan to compare my results with various mathematical models of population dynamics. This

will provide me insight into their applicability to various population conditions. Evolution has

various important applications ranging from preservation of natural diversity to the analysis of

the emergence of drug resistant bacteria. This program will be useful as a means of modeling

these situations and as a teaching tool to better educate future generations about the impact of

their choices on environment and by extension themselves.




Title: Motion Detection

Abstract: Current home security systems utilize infrared technology to detect motion. Webcams

can become more effective than infrared technology for motion detection. For this to occur, good

algorithms are needed to detect and isolate motion. Different prototypes of motion detection

systems will be created and evaluated. After an evaluation of all the prototypes, an accurate and

efficient method for motion detection will be selected. The results will have the potential to

increase the accuracy of home security solutions.efficient method for motion detection will be

selected. The results will have the potential to increase the accuracy of home security solutions.


Title: How Quick is a Computer?

Abstract: When executing a standar JavaScript mathematicall function on various computer, at

what speed will said computer be benchmarked at? I will create a mathematical program using

JavaScript and benchmark the speed at which it was completed. I will perform the function on

all computers and compare the speeds at which the computers were benchmarked. This will give

me a comparison of the hardware quality.


Title: Programming a Video Game for the Blind

Abstract: Video games nowadays include many graphic elements that are great to watch, but

what about those who are blind or visually impaired? Blind and visually impaired players can

also play video games by relying on sound cues. In this project, the goal is to build a video game

that is engaging and entertaining for both sighted and blind or visually impaired players.


Title: Optimizing Resource Allocation for Swim Meet Lineup

Abstract: My project goal is to use computer-based optimization to determine the best possible

swim meet lineup for a specific group of swimmers. Each swimmer can only swim in four

events. By using optimizing resource allocation through Monte Carlo techniques, I hypothesize

that I can maximize the probability of a team winning a swim meet.


Title: Analysis of Distributed Denial of Service Attacks

Abstract: This project aims to analyze the effects of a distributed denial of service attack on a

small network. Effects will be recorded and a method for deterring the attacks tested will be

researched further. A small network of 5 computers will be set up for testing, one computer will

act as a server. Another computer will be used to monitor the network and the remaining 3

computers will act as a botnet performing different types of attacks on the server. The network

load will be measured with the program Wireshark, and the servers ping response time will also

be recorded.




Title: Effects of overclocking on a computer

Abstract: Overclocking is raising the clock rate of a computer's CPU. GPU, or RAM above the

manufacturer's specified clock rate. Overclocking is used to give older computers more power.

On newer computers, it is used on lower budget builds to increase computer power and speed.

This experiment overclocked the computer's CPU by raising the front BUS speed. The results

were measured using several benchmarking programs that show the processor's clock rate and

BUS speeds. It was hypothesized that overclocking would significantly increase performance

and speed of the computer. Results confirmed this hypothesis.


Title: Order in Chaos: Are there patterns in iterated algorithms?

Abstract: This project involves drawing with iterated algorithms and finding patterns within the

drawings. The iterated algorithm that was used for this experiment was originally used to draw

the Sierpinski triangle. Three points were drawn in the shape of a triangle and one point was

placed in the center as a base. A die was rolled to determine where to draw the new line from the

seed. The endpoint of the new line drawn then became the new seed. The process was repeated

25 times and checked for triangles and patterns within the drawings.


Title: Efficiency of HTTP Compression

Abstract: Different types of compression of data sent over the HyperText Transfer Protocol

were analyzed to see if they are able to considerably increase the speed of encoding, transmission

and rendering over different connection speeds. There was a significant difference between the

transmission times for compressed and uncompressed data. While the specific algorithm used did

not have a large impact, compressed data was much faster to send than uncompressed data at

both connection speeds, even taking into account the computation time necessary.


Title: Reducing Manufacturing Com Using Karnaugh Mapping

Abstract: The primary goal of this project is to reduce manufacturing complexity by modeling a

smaller situation using a karmaugh map and creating a program to automate the simplification

process.


Title: Music Therapy for Lifeskills Students

Abstract: The purpose of this experiment was to combine two different areas of science which

both relate to music: music therapy and a phenomenon called the Mozart Effect. This

experiment researched music therapy’s effect of Mozart music on lower-functioning students in

an educational environment. Students in lifeskills classes were exposed to Mozart’s music

playing in the background while they completed their normal math assignments. Data was

recorded for both the number of problems each student completed (speed) and the percentage of

problems correctly completes (accuracy). Research is ongoing; results will be available on fair

day.

Senior – Earth/Space/Environment (SES), 9th-12th Grade


Project Number: SES100 Grade: 10

Title: Star light,Star sight

Abstract: The purpose of this experiment was to find out if stars twinkle more or less with

varying amounts of atmospheric gas present. Twinkling occurs when atmospheric gases pass

over the light emitted from the stars. This was tested by simulating the night sky by filling a

room with fog representing the earth’s atmospheric gases and a laser beam representing light

emitted from stars. A fog machine was used to make the atmospheric gases that caused the laser

beam to become visible. The amount of twinkling was then determined by standing under the

beam and counting the number of times a swirl of fog was seen going past the laser beam. There

was no fog puffed out for the constant, 25% of the room filled with fog for the small amount, and

75% of the room filled with fog for the large amount. Future tests are still being conducted.


Title: Building an Affordable and Effective Water Retainment Wall

Abstract: Tropical storms as well as rising water levels threaten coastal cities around the world.

Water retaining walls are becoming more and more vital to compensate and keep coastal city

populations safe. This experiment focused on creating an efficient and portable water retaining

wall. This experiment was conducted via researching current levy and water retaining wall

designs, assessing their overall efficiency, and building a new design for a portable water

retaining wall based off of experimental as well as research information. Another obstacle of

making a water retaining wall is making it affordable to construct. Experimentation is ongoing.


Title: Radiant Radishes

Abstract: Radiation exposure has a harmful effect on radish seeds. The energy in radish seeds is

destroyed by electromagnetic radiation from the microwave and the heat from the oven. The

reason why the seeds were incapable of germinating was because of heat and electromagnetic

radiation. When this energy is destroyed, germination, the process of sprouting, is halted. Once

the process of germination is destroyed by radiation, the seed is no longer able to develop. No

matter whether the radish seeds were placed in the microwave or oven for a small or large

amount of time, the results stayed constant; no sprouts.


Title: Acidity and Metal Erosion

Abstract: The purpose of this experiment is to decide wether or not the acidity of six popular

soft drinks will cause a piece of steel pipe to rust. This experiment verses diet soft drinks against

regular soft drinks. The procedures used are checking the pH of the diet and regular soft drinks

before placing the steel pipe into the soft drink. After starting the experiment, check the progress

of the rusting metal every-other day for two weeks. The scale used to record the amount of rust is

from 0-10, 0 being no rust at all, and 10 being completely rusted. After the first trial is done, a

second trial should be done to confirm your results. Still testing results to fallow soon.




Title: Road Salt Effects on Stream Chloride Levels Part 2

Abstract: In my experiment I measured the concentration of chloride ions in three nearby

watersheds before and after the salting of roads resulting from snowfall.


Title: The Effect of Native Versus Non-native Leaves on Benthic Macroinvertebrate

Communities

Abstract: Leaves are the most important source of energy for benthic macroinvertebrates (BMIs)

in small woodland streams. Leaves come from trees that are either native or non-native. The

leaves of non-native trees may have a negative effect on the health of a stream environment.

This experiment examined the effect of native and non-native leaves on BMI communities.

Sixty-three cages were constructed and filled with native and non-native leaves of three different

species pairs. The cages were placed in streams and BMIs occupying them were counted after a

month. This experiment is in process and conclusions have not yet been drawn.


Title: Counter Action

Abstract: I tested which counter top (Formica, Solid Surface, Quartz, Granite, or Marble) is the

best based on price for a kitchen. I have hypothesized that granite makes the best investment.

The subjection to staining and cleaning elements was tested, which included Red Wine, Butter,

Vinegar, Vegetable Oil, Coffee, Bacon grease, Lemon Juice, water, Clorox bleach, and Windex.

Each sample was treated with a few drops of each, and after time, I attempted to remove the

stains with a paper towel.

I tested a countertop’s durability against scratching from a knife; the process was completed

using a miter box and pressure scale. 20 scratches were done in each area to stimulate the

scratching that would not occur instantly. Heat durability was tested with a hot pan at

500ᵒF and left on the counter top sample for 5 minutes. I determined through a

comparison chart that quartz would be the best counter top based on cost. More thorough results

and description will follow at the competition.


Title: Frac Water and Wolfia

Abstract: Methanol, Isopropyl, Ethylene, and Propargyl, the four most relevant alcohols in

hydraulic fracturing fluid, are tested on Wolffia arrhiza to determine how chemicals in "fracking"

fluid affects chlorophyll absorption and health of duckweed. Chemicals in fracking fluid may be

biologically hazardous during prolonged exposure. Duckweed is food for smaller organisms, and

is sensitive to changes in toxicology of its environment. Chlorophyll absorbency of three

alcohol-exposed duckweed samples and three duckweed samples are analyzed by a Spectronic

20 after three weeks.

As of now, no finalized quantitative data is available. Preliminary observations show that alcohol

solutions negatively affect duckweeds' health.




Title: Carbaryl and Daphnia

Abstract: What is the effect of carbaryl on stink bugs?In my experament I had eight cups with

two stink bugs in each container.There was four cups in the two groups I had,one group was

treated with carbaryl the other was not. The Halyomorpha halys food was treated with a one and

a half Milameter dose of carbaryl. I waited for four days then I check to see the results and

collect data.I found that half of the variable group was killed and the other half survived.


Title: Soil pH in the Limelight

Abstract: The purpose was to determine which amount of hydrated lime on soil obtained the

closest pH to 7 after erosion. 30.39g, 83.23g, and 136.08g of hydrated lime were spread on the

top sections of three pans. After applying 250mL water to the pans eight times, the pH of the soil

was taken. This was repeated twice. The average pH of soil in the top and bottom sections of

pans respectively: 30.39g - 6.6 and 6.33; 83.23g - 7.2 and 6.03; 136.08g - 7.07 and 6.53.

Therefore, pans with 136.08g of lime resulted in soil with the closest pH to 7.


Title: Heavy Metal Horror

Abstract: Lead is often introduced to the environment at shooting ranges, landfills and

junkyards. Terrestrial isopods typically are found in these areas and can come into contact with

lead. Lead might harm the isopods and consequently affect nutrient cycling. Five simulated

environment test units with ten isopods in each were set up. Five units were exposed to 1000ppm

lead in water. The five control units were exposed to an equal volume of water without lead.

Based on early results the units containing the lead had greater average mass loss than the test

units without the lead. A behavioral test is pending.


Title: Up-Structure vs Down-Structure

Abstract: As our society develops an increasing need for natural gas, we look for newer deposits

of it that can be easily accessed. Natural gas companies have to take in consideration the amount

of time it takes to drill the well, the amount of money it costs to build and maintain the well, and

how efficient the well will be. The recent discovery of natural gas in Marcellus shale is testing

companies everywhere to develop cheaper, more efficient and cleaner ways of extracting it. The

idea of up-structure drilling is a brand new way of extracting natural gas. Up-structure drilling is

when the well is drilled vertically then horizontally uphill at a four to five degree angle. This

allows pockets of natural gas to be accessed that could have never been accessed before. Down-

structure drilling is when a well is drilled away from a ridge or a mountain. Down-structure

drilling is most commonly used when extracting natural gas from the Marcellus shale region.

The question is, is up-structure drilling more productive and more efficient than down-structure

drilling?




Title: Effects of environment on Zebra Fish embryos

Abstract: Since recent oil spills have caused much problem in both economic and environmental

aspects, I wanted to see the effects of oil on zebrafish development. I experimented to see the

effects of oil on zebrafish embryonic development. I placed zebrafish embryos in different oil

concentrations and observed their development daily, identifying their stages in development,

and comparing them to regular embryonic development. The experimentation is ongoing, but

with my results, I hope to determine the impact of oil on zebrafish embryological development


Title: Do Gas Stations Affect Soil Around Them

Abstract: This is a test.


Title: Effectively Repelling Stinkbugs

Abstract: Halyomorpha halys are recently invading homes and farmlands and this study

evaluated how to effectively repel stinkbugs. I used orange and lavender oil as environmentally

safe repellants. Stinkbugs were put in containers containing the oils and stinkbug behavior

was observed. An ANOVA test was conducted and it showed that stinkbugs were not repelled

by orange and lavender oil.


Title: Determination of pollutant leaching from landfills

Abstract: Prepare a container out of bottles in which one can fill with soil and pollutants and be

able to collect runoff water. Plant grass seeds in the soil to determine if pollutants affect plant

growth, mass the pollutants before and after experiment to determine any mass change, and

analyze runoff water to determine if it contains pollutants.


Title: Toxicity of Iodomethane

Abstract: Iodomethane was used as an insecticide on food-bearing vines. Iodomethane has since

been recalled for further testing. This chemical is readily dissolvable in water. Iodomethane is

found in minute quantities of 10-50 parts per trillion (Journal of Geophysical Research) in the

environment, so tests were conducted to determine the effects of Iodomethane on the population

growth of Daphnia magna in a series of micro-concentrations. Final results have not been

analyzed yet.


Title: A Cost Efficient Method of Purifying Grey Water Using Seeds

Abstract: Determine if Moringa and grapefruit seeds can be used to purify grey water. Moringa

seeds will be more effective at purifying grey water than grapefruit seeds. Prepare 1L of grey

water and run it through an aquarium filter not containing Moringa or grapefruit seeds (Control).

Every 15min. for 1hr. the % absorption of 20 grey water samples will be determined using a spec



20. This process will be repeated using 50, 100 and 150mg of crushed Moringa or grapefruit

seeds. Experiment still being conducted.


Title: From Waste to Fungi

Abstract: The purpose is to study 5 different waste products to grow Pleurotus osreatus (oyster

mushrooms). Using .11, .22, and .33 kg of acorns, floral waste, chestnuts, coffee grounds and

deciduous leaves (nitrogen compounds), mixed with straw (carbon), I hypothesized that .33 kg of

coffee grounds would grow the greatest mass of mushrooms. My preliminary data indicated that

the best producing substrates after three months from greatest to least were chestnuts, acorns,

floral waste, deciduous leaves and coffee grounds. I conclude that .11 kg, .22 kg, .33 kg of

chestnuts are evenly producing the greatest mass of Pleurotus ostreatus.


Title: Bio-control of Green Leaf Volatiles to Increase Plant Output

Abstract: When plants are distressed, some produce an increased amounts of certain chemicals.

One category of stress chemicals are Green Leaf Volatiles (GLV's). I will investigate whether

GLV's are linked to plant reproduction in terms of bud output. Application of GLV's could

potentially replace harmful pesticides and could potentially increase agricultural yield by

influencing reproduction.


Title: Minewater and Pond Snails

Abstract: Snails will be exposed to mine water for a period of 3 weeks. 4 snails will

be placed in each cups of six. 3 cups are for the mine water group and 3

cups are for the spring water group. Chara algae with a mass of 0.4 grams

will be placed in each cup. I will find out if mine water will have a

significant effect on pond snails.


Title: Tornado Simulation!

Abstract: The purpose of this investigation involved attempting to replicate the formation of a

tornado in a laboratory setting. It is known that tornadoes form when a horizontally oriented

rotating column of air spawns due to fast wind speeds colliding with one another. Later, a

massive updraft originating from a thunderstorm tilts the tornado upward and the updraft

strengthens the vortex causing the formation of a tornado. To replicate this event, an apparatus

was designed using a duct fan and polystyrene foam. Slits were placed in the polystyrene foam

and vents were placed in the apparatus to create a horizontally oriented column of air. To create

an updraft, an ordinary house fan was positioned over the duct fan. To make the vortex visible,

a mist humidifier which provides steam was used. With the initial run of the tornado simulation,

no vortex formed. On a secondary run, the fan speeds and postitioning of the fans was altered,

but again, a vortex did not form. To control the conditions, a backdrop was added to cut off any

outside drafts that could disrupt the creation of a vortex. Based on this investigation, it is

concluded that small scale replication of the conditions that create a tornado may not be possible.



Further investigation needs to be carried out using more fans and different positioning of the fans

and evaluating other parameters to replicate how a tornado forms in nature.


Title: Terraforming in a Hypergravity Environment

Abstract: The experiment was done to determine plant sustainability while experiencing

hypergravity. Plants were grown under hypergravity and standard gravity. Hypergravity was

simulated using a centrifuge and measured at 1.4 to 1.8g. The plants were regularly watered and

examined in 5 day increments for fifteen days. Next, a termination study began with no

additional watering. The plants under hypergravity used more water and had a higher tissue

mass. Although increased water use decreases sustainability in a low water environment. During

the termination studies the control plants remained healthier due to their lower water use.


Title: Reducing CO2 Emissions

Abstract: The purpose of this research is to acknowledge the effects of carbon dioxide on the

environment and use an acid-base reaction to filter the CO2. I think the CO2 emissions can be

reduced by using different hydroxides to react with the gas to enhance the air quality. In the

experiment, the reactions will form carbonates and reduce the amount of CO2 released. Levels of

carbon dioxide and acidity of the reactions will be measured in order to find a way to reduce

CO2 emissions. I think that NaOH, as a strong base and an inexpensive substance, will display

optimum results.


Title: Algae Bloom & O2 levels: Synthetic vs. Organic Fertilizer

Abstract: The purpose of this experiment is to test the effect of synthetic fertilizer and organic

fertilizer on algal blooms and oxygen levels in an aquatic environment.


Title: Sevin and Earthworms

Abstract: Lumbricus terrestris, play a major part in soil fertility. In my experiment I am testing

the affects of the pesticide Sevin on mortality rate and damage to the nervous system of the

earthworm. Sevin was applied at four different concentration levels (one, four, seven, and ten

sprays). A one-way ANOVA test showed the responses to stimuli were significantly different

from the control group. An ANOVA test also indicated there was no significant difference in

mortality among the groups. Further experimentation needs to be done to test for the effects of

exposure to Sevin over a longer period of time.


Title: Bio Remediation of Ammonia at Fish Hatcheries Through the Use of Nitrogen Fixing

Bacteria?

Abstract: To create the most effective bioremediation system for removing ammonia from water

using commercially available nitrifying bacteria solutions and aquatic plants. The nitrifying



bacteria solution that contains Nitrospira and the aquatic plant with the greatest root mass will

produce the most effective bioremediation system for removing ammonia from water.Fill 9

containers with 10L of water containing a known concentration of ammonia. Different

combinations of aquatic plants and commercially available nitrifying bacteria solutions were

tested in order to determine which combination produced the most effective bioremediation

system for removing ammonia from water. Experiment still in progress


Title: Green Roofs' Role in Mitigating the Urban Heat Island Effect

Abstract: The purpose of my experiment is to find out whether green roofs will lower the urban

heat island effect, which refers to a metropolitan area that is much warmer than the surrounding

rural areas. A green roof is a layer of vegetation grown on top of a rooftop which blocks sunlight

from reaching the roof beneath and cools the air through the process of evapotranspiration. In

my experiment, I will construct a model of a city containing normal roofs and one with green

roofs and observe the temperature and water levels in the city.


Title: Latex Paint and Kentucky Blugrass

Abstract: The purpose of my experiment was to test the effects of white exterior latex paint on

the growth and health of Kentucky Bluegrass. I hypothesized that the grass exposed to the paint

would not be as tall or as healthy as grass not exposed to the paint. I placed soil and seeds into

twenty container and paint chips in half of them. After a few weeks, I measured the height of

grass in each container and calculated biomass. According to an ANOVA test, there was a

significant difference in height

between my groups but not between the biomass.


Title: Gamma Radiation Testing in Western PA

Abstract: The purpose of my experiment is to show the highest gamma radiation levels in

western PA. My procedure was to take 38 radiation samples from western PA in a calculated

spread to maximize the randomness of the samples. All my data has not been analyzed but, so far

I have not seen any spikes in certain areas. Conclusion will follow.

Senior – Engineering/Robotics (SER), 9th-12th Grade


Project Number: SER100 Grade: 9

Title: Automatic Air Filtration Replacement Indicator

Abstract: Air filters are an essential part of everyday equipment and residence. As the dirty air

gets filtered by the porous media, it needs replacement at regular intervals to ensure the cleanest

air quality possible. a multitude of air bourne diseases and malfunctioning of equipment is

possible if the filtration media is not replaced at the right time. At present, there is a lack of

automated mechanism to indicate the filter replacement time. This results in either early or late

replacement leading to wastage of filter or poor air quality due to clogged air filters. This project

aims at identifying and building an automated mechanism to indicate the right time to replace the

filters.


Title: Convertible Wheel Chair

Abstract: The Convertible Wheel Chair is a probject designed to simplify work for Nurses and

Clinical Technicians by reducing the amount of work being done to help a patient from a sitting

to laying position. By using mechanical engineering and electrical wiring I created a wheel chair

that essentially converts from a movable wheel chair to a bed in order to reduce the movement

that sick patients have to endure and to reduce back problems for those who help them between

positions.


Title: Sensory Assistant Glove

Abstract: The purpose of my experiment was to create a sensory assistant glove that would

detect temperature and pressure applied to the hand. The goal of the weight and temperature tests

are to help characterize the sensors used and to calculate error. Error for the sensors is used to

determine the thresholds for the warning system. In my pressure applied procedure, I took

different calibrated weights and laid them on each of the four pressure sensors, (a,b,c, and d) and

using an ardunio board, I measured the amount of pressure forced on the sensor based on an

average. For my temperature applied test, I took the sensors and placed them against different

temperature glasses of water and tested to see if they correctly measured the temperature, using

an ardunio board. After each of the sensors were tested five times, they were built onto the glove

to use.


Title: Visual Interface and Algorithmic Programming of a High-Precision Robotic Laser

Abstract: The purpose of this experiment was to design an application that allowed a user to

draw a convex path on a computer. This path would then be traced with a robotically-

maneuvered laser. I first constructed a robot with a laser attachment. I then developed the

software component of the application, using OpenGL to allow a user to draw a path onscreen. I

then ran tests and collected data. For the six different convex shapes I tested, the robot

successfully navigated each vertex with an error less than one centimeter in all directions. I

concluded my project was successful.




Title: Best Foot Forward

Abstract: The purpose of this project is to design and create a new improved model of the Jaipur

Foot prosthetic that will better address user’s needs of increased mobility, flexibility, and

sturdiness. 3D computer models of the original Jaipur Foot and a new experimental foot were

created in AutoDesk Inventor software and used in simulation tests to compare three commonly

used metrics in the field of prosthetics. The tests arrived at the conclusion that while the original

Jaipur Foot has more mobility, the new model is more flexible and sturdy. Proving that the

enhanced model is a more efficient prosthetic limb.


Title: Ram Jet Power

Abstract: For my science fair project this year, I decided to make a miniature ram jet engine of

my own design and then compare its power to that of a model car engine. I did this by timing

how fast the car covered under the power of the model engine and then timing how fast it

covered under the power of the ram jet. By comparing those two times, I can tell which is more

powerful. It seems the model car engine is more powerful, but experimentation is continuing. I

will make different versions of the ram jet.


Title: Does Fly Ash Affect the Adhesive Strength of Mortar?

Abstract: To determine if fly ash mixed in mortar increases its adhesive strength. As the

concentration of the fly ash in mortar increases the adhesive strength of the mortar will also

increase. Make a 0% fly ash/mortar mixture and join the 30 pairs of bricks together with a 1cm

mortar joint. After curing for one week and place one of the mortared pair of bricks onto the

testing apparatus. Determine the adhesive strength of the mortar joint. Repeat the process for the

20%, 30% and 40% fly ash/mortar concentrations being tested. Experiment is still being

conducted.


Title: Vertical Axis v. Horizontal Axis Wind Turbines

Abstract: This project compared the two types of wind turbines; horizontal axis wind turbines

(HAWT) and vertical axis wind turbines (VAWT). A model having four blades was built of each

type of turbine. The HAWT has blades that are angled. The VAWT had half pieces of pvc pipe

for blades. The blades and hubs were four inches. They are tested with a small dc motor and a

voltmeter. The tower is pvc pipe, it is placed in front of the fan, five tests are done when the fan

is on the low and high settings, the voltage is recorded. The voltage recorded was then used to

determine which type of turbine was the most efficient.


Title: Breaking Wind

Abstract: I have been constructing and engineering a wind shield to protect structures from

hurricane forces. This was inspired by Hurricane Sandy this last fall when I realized that housing

could prevent damage to property by placing a light structure over and in front of the structure



that would "ramp" the wind over head. Result so far have shown the efficient of the shield. With

different materials that have different qualities.


Title: Improving Automated Plant Care

Abstract: There are many solutions to automate plant care out there, and most of them work

fine. However, my goal is to improve the systems available, mainly on the control side. My plan

is to create an improved version of a current system that is easier to use, more accurate and can

save the user time and money. Once I have plants that are big enough, I will carry out the tests,

and the results will be available on fair day.


Title: Water from the Sun

Abstract: The purpose of this experiment is to determine how saltwater evaporates as it loses

volume. I used a simple black container to hold the water and a glass container both under a

plastic sheet to catch the water. I am not done experimenting, results and conclusions will follow.


Title: Music to my Ears

Abstract: The purpose of this experiment is to see if the frequency of a tuning fork is affected,

when the temperature is changed. The 656hertz tuning fork was frozen, boiled, and left to sit at

room temperature. The temperature was taken with an infrared thermometer. Frequency was

taken by knocking the tines of the tuning fork next to a frequency sensor. The results showed

that the frequency was always 656hertz. In conclusion, the temperature of the tuning fork, did

not change the frequency.


Title: Breathing Easier

Abstract: The goal of this project was to alter the design of the respirator 6000 to increase air

flow and comfort. Black lung is a disease caused from coal dust inhalation. Miners often do not

wear the masks because they make breathing difficult and are uncomfortable. There is no post

operation once you have black lung. The only defense is a respirator, and the purpose of this

project is to redesign the respirator to encourage miners to wear them and protect themselves. By

adding an air pump the air flow is increased along with the comfort level.


Title: The Efficiency and Potential of Wireless Electricity

Abstract: This project investigated the theory of operation of long distance wireless electricity

and the practical implications of this theory. To achieve this, a wireless transmission system,

including a transmitter and receiver circuit, had to be constructed and precisely calibrated. An

experiment was conducted on various configurations of this receiver and transmitter. This first

experiment provided evidence for the theory of operation and how it can be applied to a practical



situation efficiently. This evidence was applied to a proof-of-concept circuit for receiving

wireless electricity, and data is currently being collected. Final results and conclusions will be

available on fair day.


Title: Pt Optimization of the DMFC

Abstract: Recently, the use of direct methanol fuel cells as power sources for portable electronic

devices has become important area. A DMFC has the potential to generate electrical power

through the oxidation of methanol with little environmental impact. However, a significant issue

in the developing a highly efficient DMFC involves the use of catalytic metals which serve to

improve the electrocatalytic activity. This experiment was designed to use platinum

nanoparticles to assist the DMFC performance. The theory is that when nanoparticles are to be

added, the reaction surface area of the DMFC will increase and therefore make the DMFC more

efficient. It has been found that when added with nanoparticles, the fuel cell was far more

efficient (producing more power) than that without Pt nanoparticales. Therefore, small Pt

nanoparticles can open a new pathway to obtain highly-efficient DMFC.


Title: Rocket Motor Test System-7000

Abstract: RMTS-7000 is an"all-in-one" test stand for gathering data on the delivered

performance of high power rocket motors. It has the capability of wirelessly communicating

with a computer up to 1000ft away. Great care and thought was put into making the test stand to

make it as simple and effective as possible, so much so that a load cell was custom designed and

built for the stand. Companion software on the computer allows the logging, processing, and

analysis of real0time thrust data for future use.


Title: Performance of Engine with HHo

Abstract: This experiment determined the performance of an engine on oxyhydrogen (HHo). To

do this make a HHo dry cell from steel circles and Plexiglas for a 7 horse power engine. Run the

engine without the HHo dry cell (just gasoline) for control data. Then run the engine with the

dry cell with HHo and record length of time engine ran. Calculate RPM horse power and torque

for all trial data. Measure exhaust fumes with a metal plate and record ten pictures of the plate.

Compare data to determine the performance of an engine using HHo.


Title: Refrigeration cooling of Cpus

Abstract: The problem addressed by this project is that of high-power cooling for central

processing units in desktop computers. The system is based around using refrigeration to cool

CPU's to sub-ambient temperatures. This is achieved by a prototype that uses a compressor and

refrigerants in a cooling loop. The sound output was below that of typical case fans, and the

cooling capacity was greater than that of other coolers . The tests showed

that achieving this is feasible using a low-cost system.




Title: Study of Thermoelectricity

Abstract: Since we live in a world where alternative forms of energy are greatly sought after I

wanted to conduct an investigation to test different metal pairs and determine the thermocouple

which produces the most voltage in a thermoelectric generator. I used four types of metals and

created six generators all with different metal pairs in series.

By heating one side of the thermocouples and cooling the other I created a current that was

measurable with a voltmeter. At this point data is still being collected and processed. Final

results will be shown on the day of presentation.


Title: Automated Flying Beacon Locator

Abstract: The automated flying beacon locator is designed to find people sending high

emissions of frequencies or beams of light who are stranded or in distress. The goal of the project

is to build a prototype capable of doing just that.


Title: Building An Automatic Pet Feeder

Abstract: For my science fair project this year, I decided to create an automatic pet feeder. I

used an old VHS to make my project. Using one of the rotating drums inside of the player, I

powered an apparatus that would help to dispense the food into the pet’s food bowl. I’m looking

too see if my own pets can be fed using my machine. Currently, I am still in the process of

experimenting, but I believe that my project will be successful in feeding my pets.


Title: Carbon-Based Nanorobotics

Abstract: This project was started with the goal of developing a means of creating Nano-robots

from organic compounds, for use in fields such as medicine and biotechnology. This process was

devised with a theoretical approach, rather than an experimental approach, applying and

modifying current knowledge and technology in the field of biology.Analysis found that the

optimal process would make use of viruses, which would infect bacteria and make then produce

Nano-robots, which will be very similar to proteins. In addition, according to research, most

technology for this exists, and could be adapted for this process in about 5-10 years.


Title: Get a Grip

Abstract: The point of this project is to create a cheap, useful electronic limb for amputees who

may not be able to afford the more expensive versions. The design of this limb is for a amputee

with either a wrist disarticulation, forearm amputation, or elbow disarticulation. The project must

be: cheap but still useful, noninvasive control such as EMG, EMG, or EKG sensing, lightweight,

require little to no assistance from the working hand, and other goals that can’t be fit in this

document. The electronics are mainly cheap hobby electronics. This is an engineering project

that is still in progress.




Title: The (Healthier) Sweet Life

Abstract: This experiment was to determine if the replacement of xylitol, palm sugar, or sugar-

Stevia mix with white sugar in a chocolate-chip cookie recipe made cookies that had the same

appearance, taste, texture, and/or smell as the white sugar recipe did. When it came to taste and

appearance, the palm sugar cookie, overwhelmingly was better than the white sugar cookie. The

xylitol had the worst votes when it came to smell and texture, as the participant said that it

smelled bitter and was grainy. The Stevia-sugar mix was said to have tasted “too sweet”. More

trials are still being done.


Title: Bellows Style Stirling Engine

Abstract: In the drive to replace fossil fuels, the Sterling engine is a possible solution because it

can convert low temperature heat sources into work. The lowest operating temperature Stirling

engines are displacer type, but tend to be inefficient. I developed a novel design Stirling cycle

engine using bellows. It can harness low temperatures because it has a large surface area to

volume ratio and two separate chambers allowing the use of a regenerator. The design is simple

and inexpensive permitting use in developing areas where both cost and unskilled people can

provide maintenance.


Title: Does Temperature Affect Electrical Resistance in Different Types of Wire?

Abstract: The purpose of my experiment is to find which wire has the least amount of

resistance.

Hypothesis: My hypothesis is the copper wire will be the best performing wire in all five of the

environments. Use a multimeter and a 10-foot piece of the selected wire to place in the testing

chamber. Then test the resistance of the wire in the selected temperature. Record the results and

determine the wire with the least amount of resistance. Experiment still being conducted.


Title: Reducing the Incidents and Severity of Concussions by Improving Helmet Design

Abstract: To determine which insulation in a football helmet absorbs the greatest amount of

force being applied. As the density of the insulating material increases its ability to absorb force

will decrease. After creating the testing apparatus a football helmet containing the standard force

absorbing insulation was installed in the testing apparatus. A force was applied to the helmet 30

different times (Control) and the amount of force the insulation absorbed was determined. The

standard insulation was then replaced with one of the other insulations being tested and the same

procedure was repeated. Experiment still in progress

Senior – Medicine/Health/Microbiology (SMH), 9th-12th Grade


Project Number: SMH100 Grade: 9

Title: Hemodynamic Variations with Energy Drinks

Abstract: Energy drinks are known for providing what the name implies – energy. However,

from recent reviews, the product has been known for having incredibly high amounts of caffeine

and other ingredients that are not necessarily good for health. My goal of my project is to test the

effects of these energy drinks, particularly on heart rates and blood pressure.


Title: Antacid Effects on Microbial Flora

Abstract: Microbiology has broadened human understanding in the aspect of life. Through

techniques in microbiology, observations have been made on microbial flora under various

conditions, such as sustainability in the presence of variables. Microbiology has been

revolutionary. In this microbiology experiment, Antacid Effects on Microbial Flora, Pepto

Bismol was tested on Escherichia Coli to answer a proposed question, "Does Pepto Bismol

significantly affect Escherichia Coli survivorship?” This experiment could determine if Pepto

Bismol reduced the survivorship of Escherichia Coli in various concentrations. The null

hypothesis stated: Pepto Bismol will not significantly alter the survivorship of Escherichia coli.

The alternative hypothesis stated: Pepto Bismol will significantly reduce the survivorship of

Escherichia coli

This experiment involved cell culturing of Escherichia coli. Pepto Bismol was made in a liquid

phase of 0%, 0.1%, 1%, and 10% concentration (8 tubes in all, 2 replicates per tube). E. coli was

then added to a test tube with sterile fluid and Pepto Bismol. 0.1 mLs of the solutions were

pipetted onto 24 LB Agar plates (3 plates for each tube), then plated. After incubation of plates,

the colonies were counted.

The results gained from a graph expressed a trend that as the concentration of Pepto Bismol

increased, the average number of surviving colonies of E.coli decreased. An ANOVA and a

Dunnett’s test were performed and numerical values that expressed significance were generated.

For the conclusion, the null hypothesis was rejected and the alternative was accepted. Evidence

suggest that Pepto Bismol significantly reduces the survivorship of Escherichia Coli.


Title: Comparing Sedation Usage Between In - and Outpatient Settings

Abstract: In my study, I examined the difference in Propofol usage between a hospital-based lab

and an ambulatory endoscopy center. I used standard statistical methods to compare the last 100

screening colonoscopies from both settings and discovered which variables had an affect on the

amount of Propofol a patient received. In my results, I found that when the patients in the AEC

received additional sedatives, they received less Propofol. In the Hospital, this was not the case-

patients received the same amount of the sedative. This may mean that the Hospital is over-using

Propofol.


Title: Genomic Analysis Reveals Variations Specific to Renal Cell Neoplasms

Abstract: Does cancer originate in our genes? The search for diagnostic cancer biomarkers has

grown exponentially with the introduction of high-speed genomic-sequencing. Molecular assays

for Renal Cell Carcinoma (RCC) are needed for early detection and accurate discrimination



among various kidney tumor subtypes. In this study, genomic alterations were found common to

Papillary 2 RCC specimens. These data provide evidence for three novel gene deletions,

potential RCC biomarkers. Furthermore, the presence of both copy number and base variations

in the CDC37L1 gene, along with its function in proliferation, suggest that it may play an

underlying role in tumorigenesis of Papillary 2 cancers.


Title: The Effects of Pineapple Juice on Microorganisms

Abstract: This experiment was conducted to test the effects of pineapple juice on the

survivorship on Microbial Flora. Pineapple juice is a common beverage throughout the world. It

is ingested, so this experiment was conducted to test how it affects microflora of the body. The

two types of pineapple juice were canned and fresh squeezed pineapple juice. It is high in sugar

content, mainly fructose. Yeast and E. Coli were grown overnight in sterile media. The

microbes were exposed to juice concentrations of 10%, 1%, and 0%, followed by plating onto

YEPD or LB agar. The colonies were then counted visually, each colony is assumed to have

arisen from a single cell. The results were then entered into ANOVA stat analysis tests. The P

value was significant signifying significant variation between at least two of the groups.

Dunnett’s Tests were then conducted to see where this variation occurred. Both juices at 10%

concentration significantly affected both cell models. 1% canned juice also significantly affected

the survivorship of yeast. This was the only 1% variable that was significant.


Title: Milk Supplementation Effects on Myoblastic Stem Cells

Abstract: This project attempted to assess the effects of breast milk on the proliferation of 3T3

fibroblast cells. The null hypothesis for this experiment was that breast milk would not have a

significant effect on 3T3 cell proliferation. The 3T3 fibroblast cells were cultured in DMEM

media and were suspended after trypsinization. The desired concentrations of breast milk were

added to the cells. Cell counts were taken on day 1 and day 3. Data analysis suggests that breast

milk had a significant positive effect on the proliferation 3T3 fibroblast cells.


Title: Pavlov's Planaria

Abstract: Which types of herbs can affect memory loss? I expect the Gotu Kola, Bacopa

Monnieri, and Dragon’s Blood to have positive effects on the brain. Control: Planaria in their

original water.

Test: I will begin by allowing one group of planaria to go through a simple maze in their natural

water. I will record their times and general behavioral observations. I will do this again. I will

allow the other group of planaria to go through a more challenging maze, recording their times

and behavioral observations. Then, I will dilute the water of Test Group A, which will be two

planaria from the easy maze and two from the difficult maze, with Gotu Kola and allow them to

run through their original maze again. I will record their times and behavioral observations. I will

then take Test Group B and dilute their water with Bacopa Monnieri, allow them to run through

their original mazes, and record their times and behavior. Then, I will take Test Group C, dilute

their water with Dragon’s Blood, allow them to run through their original mazes, and record their



times and behaviors. resulting times of the natural water compared to the times of the diluted

water. Final Abstract will be available with my exhibit on Fair Day.


Title: How Effectively Does Sharklet Inhibit the Proliferation of Various Types of Bacteria?

Abstract: Determine how effective Sharklet plastic is at inhibiting bacteria and viruses on

commonly used surfaces. Commonly used surfaces coated with Sharklet plastic will inhibit

bacteria and viruses better than if they were coated with blank plastic of similar composition.

Similar size Sharklet and blank plastic squares were placed beside each other on commonly used

surfaces for 2 weeks. They were removed and placed in sterile Petri dishes and incubated for

48hrs. The optical density and bacteria colonies present was determined. A test was also

conducted to determine the effect Sharklet plastic on viruses. Experiment still occurring


Title: Pronto Pill

Abstract: The purpose was to see what kind of pain reliever would release the medicine fastest. I

created a stomach acid replica, heated it to body temperature, and timed from when the pill was

put in the acid to when the coating dissolved to release the ibuprofen. My data shows that the

generic brand of ibuprofen dissolved the fastest, followed by the generic gel capsule, then Motrin

PM, and finally Advil. In conclusion, the generic brand solid capsule dissolved the fastest and

will therefore enter the bloodstream fastest and begin to relieve pain the fastest.


Title: Minimizing Concussion Risk in Hockey Helmets

Abstract: Hockey helmets are not resistant enough to concussive injury. This experiment was

designed to determine if hockey helmets can be designed to better simulate human anatomy and

therefore decrease the risk of concussions. Using a weighted human headform with an implanted

accelerometer in the cranial area, the control and the experimental helmets were both dropped

from specific heights onto the frontal, parietal, occipital, and temporal areas of the head. The

results were recorded. According to the results it can be concluded that the experimental helmet,

that more closely simulates human anatomy, is more resistant to concussive injury.


Title: Battle In Your Mouth

Abstract: The purpose of this experiment was to evaluate different mouth rinses to discover their

efficiency in killing one type of bacteria commonly found in the mouth, Escherichia coli strain

K-12. Everyone has experienced the irritating condition, halitosis. Although many people use

mouthwashes to rid their mouths of bad breath, some mouthwashes may not be eliminating the

root cause of halitosis: bacteria. Through three trials testing the effectiveness of four

mouthwashes, we discovered some expensive mouthwashes are not effective in preventing

bacterial spread and growth. Experiment results may be used to determine if using mouthwashes

is worth the costs for consumers.




Title: DHA Elicits Microglial M2 Polarization

Abstract: Microglial activation exhibits a spectrum of actions from pro-inflammatory (M1) to

anti-inflammatory (M2) phenotypes. This study aimed to determine whether docosahexaenoic

acid (DHA), abundant in fish oil, achieves beneficial biological effects by modulating the

M1/M2 phenotypes in cultured primary microglia. Multiple M1 and M2 markers in

lipopolysaccharide-activated microglia were measured using quantitative RT-PCR. DHA

significantly increased the expression of selective M2 markers while hindering the expression of

M1 markers. The results suggest that DHA shifts microglial polarization toward the healthy M2

phenotype. Ongoing study is investigating the therapeutic relevance of this microglia-modulating

function of DHA in models of neurological disorders.


Title: Smokeless tobacco's effects on yeast's mutagenesis rate

Abstract: The purpose of the experiment was to assess the mutagenicity of Skoal smokeless

tobacco . The null was that the tobacco wold not significantly impact mutagenesis rate. A

variation of the Ames test was employed, utilizing a (-) lysine strain of Saccharomyces

cerevisiae. After 0.1% and 1% tobacco exposure, mutagenicity was quantified by the number of

revertant colonies on complete (-) lysine agar. Uv light was also used to mutagenize cells as a

comparison. Statistical analysis revealed significant effects at 1% tobacco exposure and each uv

exposure.


Title: Vinegar Antimicrobial Effects

Abstract: As many products attempt to alter bacterial survivorship, some present environmental

concerns. There is a pursuit to determine whether common cleaners possess antimicrobial

properties. This experiment attempts to determine whether vinegar possess antimicrobial

properties. Vinegar possesses properties that create an acidic environment. In order to neutralize

the lower pH, the measure of acidity or basicity, lab Grade sodium bicarbonate was used. Gram

(-) Escherichia coli are gram (-) and Gram (+) Staphylococcus epidermidis were grown and

exposed to concentrations of 0%, 0.1%, 1%, and 10% of the variable. The variable combinations

were vinegar, vinegar neutralized with sodium bicarbonate, to a pH of 7, and sodium bicarbonate

alone. These solutions were plated and incubated at 37°C and the resulting colonies were

counted. Using an ANOVA, the results yielded information suggesting that there was

significance in all variables combinations. The trend for Escherichia coli showed that vinegar

caused almost a linear decrease with the higher amount of the variable. The sodium bicarbonate

treatment yielded an increase in survivorship greatly up to [1%], but significantly reduced

survivorship at [10%]. The vinegar and sodium bicarbonate treatment increased survivorship

throughout. The Staphylococcus epidermidis showed a steady decrease until [10%],

experiencing a sudden increase.


Title: Advil Effects on 3T3 Cell Proliferation, Survivorship, and Regeneration

Abstract: Anti-inflammatories, specifically Advil, have interesting cellular effects, specifically

seen with patients with pain. While we know this is helpful in reducing pain, the question



remains, is it possible that Advil has effects fibroblastic cells in humans in the wound healing

process. 3T3 cells are a fibroblastic cell line derived from mice. They are a common cell line

employed in the field of medicine, allowing scientists to characterize their ability to proliferate

and regenerate. In this study, the 3T3 cells will be exposed to various concentrations of Advil

and the effects of cell proliferation, survivorship, and regeneration will be examined.


Title: Fracking Chemical Effects on Microbial Life

Abstract: The purpose of this experiment was to determine if fracking chemicals are harmful to

microbial ecosystems. However, due to health regulations, genuine fracking chemicals were not

able to be received, a researcher approved simulation was created and used instead. The first

experiment in this project was a liquid exposure. In this experiment yeast was exposed to

concentrations of 0%, 0.01%, 0.1%, and 1%, followed by plating onto YEPD agar. An agar

infusion was then performed; 0.2 ml aliquots of fracking chemicals were infused into the YEPD

agar, followed by yeast plating. Statistical analyses were then performed for each experiment to

determine the significance of the outcome. The resulting conclusion was that fracking chemicals

do significantly affect the survivorship of yeast, both in liquid pulse and infusion exposure.


Title: Antioxidant Attenuation of a Plasmid Mutagenesis

Abstract: The purpose of the experiment was to assess the effects of antioxidants on DNA

mutagenesis caused by UV light. The hypothesis was that the antioxidants would mitigate the

effects of mutagenesis. Antioxidants are supposed to protect against indirect DNA damage due to

the nature of free radicals. Plasmid was diluted with sterile water. Zero, low, and high

antioxidant concentrations were made using sterile water and added to plasmid. Plasmid and

antioxidant were exposed to zero, low, and high UV light, totaling nine groups. Exposed plasmid

and antioxidant were added to cells to transform in ice for 45 minutes. Heat shock and add LB to

mixture. Plate on LB-amp-x-gal plates and incubate overnight. If cells grew, they were presumed

to have successfully absorbed and expressed the amp r gene and if they were blue they were

presumed to have properly expressed the lac z gene. If white, they were thought to have absorbed

damaged DNA. As UV exposure increased, fewer colonies grew, as the antioxidant

concentration increased, the colonies increased. Statistical analyses allow for the null hypothesis

to be rejected and say that the antioxidants successfully mitigated the damage done by UV light.

However, other biological molecules must be present for indirect damage to take place; free

radicals are created by other molecules and damage DNA through oxidation, which the

antioxidants protect against by being oxidized themselves.


Title: Dopamine Effects on Adult Stem Cells

Abstract: The goal of my research project is to see whether drugs containing dopamine, when

ingested by humans, have adverse effects on the important stem cell lines in their body. My

experiment will test this concept on C2C12 stem cells in 2 ways (proliferation and differentiation

of the cells). In both procedures, the cells will be expanded and seeded into culture flasks,

selected amounts of dopamine will be placed into each flask, images will be taken of the cells on



selected days (1 and 3), cells will be trypsinized, resuspended, and loaded into hemacytometers,

and cell counts will be performed.


Title: Ginseng - Anticancer?

Abstract: Ginseng is an ancient herb that is commonly used today to help the human body

prevent and fight diseases. American and Chinese Panax ginseng are said to have anti-cancer

properties. This experiment used a potato disc bioassay to further test that hypothesis.

Agrobacterium tumefaciens was cultured and overlaid onto .5 cm potato discs in water agar.

Panax Red Ginseng was added to the potatoes with bacteria, and left for seven days. Lugol's

Solution was then used to stain the potatoes and reveal the tumors caused by the bacteria. Results

are pending.


Title: Homeade Sports Drink Vs. Gatorade

Abstract: The purpose of this experiment is to see if a high electrolyte drink can be made at

home. This experiment compares electrolyte levels in Gatorade orange juice, sports drinks and

the homemade remedy. The procedure includes finding ingredients to mix together that would

cause electrolytes and a craftsman digital multimeter is used to record the results. The results and

conclusion are still pending at this time.


Title: Limiting Concussions in Girls Neck by Neck Strengthening Exercises

Abstract: This experiment was to determine if isometric exercises would increase the strength of

the trapezius and sternocleidomastoid muscles in girls' necks to prevent concussions. Thirty- six

girls were broken up into two groups. One group was required to do isometric exercises every

day for three months. All girls were tested for their strengths, once a week, by how many

dumbbell pull-ups and scapular retractions they could do in thirty seconds. An ANOVA test

indicated that there was no increase in muscle strength by the exercises used.


Title: Arsenic Inhibits Chondrogensis

Abstract: Arsenic contaminated drinking water is a worldwide environmental health concern

that causes many cancers and diseases including fetal loss and low birth weight. Stem cell

differentiation in cartilage (Chondrogenesis) is important, but the effects of arsenic are not

known. I differntiated human mesenchymal stem cells into chondrocytes in the presence or

absence of arsenic and compared expression of chondro-specific genes, aggrecan (ACAN) and

collagen type XI alpha 2 (col11a2). Exposure of cells to a non-toxic level of aresenic during the

differentiation program inhibited gene expression and chondrogenesis.




Title: The Effect of Light on Bread Mold

Abstract: Place 100g of bread in 3 petri dishes. Add 10ml of water. Place one dish in a dark

closet, one dish under a 60 watt light source and the last dish in direct sunlight. Monitor bread

for growth of mold daily for 30 days.


Title: Comparing Gene Expression on Chromosomes Associated and Not Associated with

Pancreatic Cancer

Abstract: Cancer is a disease that has been claiming lives all over the world. The fourth

deadliest type of cancer in the US is pancreatic cancer. The chromosomes associated with

pancreatic cancer are chromosomes 1, 5, and 13. One of these cancer-associated chromosomes,

chromosome 1, was compared with a chromosome that was not associated with the cancer,

chromosome 22, to explore why one of them is associated with pancreatic cancer and the other is

not. It was found that a gene on chromosome 1 had a mutation, affecting the gene expression and

causing that chromosome to be associated with pancreatic cancer.


Title: Does Exercise really make our brains work better?

Abstract: The experiment was performed to see if exercise helps the brain work better as

measured by a test of memory. Participants were initially given a test of twenty-five household

objects which they were allowed to study for one minute. After one minute, the list was

removed and the participants were asked to write down as many of the objects as they

remembered. The participants were then divided into one of two groups: one exercised while

the other played board games for ten minutes. After ten minutes, participants returned and

completed a second test using a different list of objects. It was determined that participants who

exercised maintained or increased their score while those playing board games decreased their

score.


Title: Biomarker-based Categorization of Disease

Abstract: The purpose of this project is to determine a reliable method of categorizing diseases

based on commonalities between their biomarkers. The significance of discovering new methods

to categorize similar diseases is to enhance scientific understanding of common underlying

molecular pathways and to design efficient tests for early detection and progression of these

diseases. My hypothesis is that the algorithm developed will likely work only for a specific

subset of data and cannot be applied broadly.


Title: Corrosion of Mg in a KER Hydrogel

Abstract: Nerve conduits are a commonly studied solution to peripheral nerve repair in the field

of tissue engineering [1-3]. Most recently, collaborators at the University of Cincinnati have

been using a Keratin Hydrogel and Magnesium to further enhance peripheral nerve repair.

Although, they have experienced rapid corrosion rates of the Magnesium in the Keratin



Hydrogel. We addressed Magnesium degradation in solutions of PBS (phosphate buffered

saline), Keratin gel, cell media only, and cell media containing a nerve cell line. We found that

after 7 days Magnesium lost the most mass in the media only group. The highest amount of

Magnesium particles was identified in the group containing a nerve cell line after 7 days.


Title: Are We Eating Healthy? Tomato Extract Halts Cancer Cell Growth

Abstract:

Tomato Extract Halts the Cancer Cell Growth.

Cancer is the uncontrolled growth of cells in the body. The purpose of this experiment was to

investigate the ability of genetically modified and organic tomato extracts to induce cell death in

HCT116 colon cancer cells using a micro culture tetrazolium (MTT) assay. Curcumin, a known

anticancer agent, along with organic and genetically modified tomato extracts were used in a

dose and time dependent manner on colon cancer cells. The data showed that organic tomato

extracts were active against the cancer cell death suggesting eating organic produce would be

much healthier.


Title: The Efficacy of Probiotics

Abstract: The efficiency of probiotic capsules is going to be tested against lactobacillus culture.

Finding if probiotics will grow and produce in the same manner as a living lactobacillus culture.

Control: Using live lactobacillus casei bacteria, begin culturing a colony on a nutrient enriched

agar plate. Use inoculating loop to collect culture and place in specific pH solution.Test: Using

TruBiotic probiotic capsules, freeze dried Lactobacillus acidophilus and Bifidobacterium

anamalis, begin culturing a colony on a nutrient enriched agar plate. Use inoculating loop to

collect culture and place in specific pH solution.

Research is still being conducted. Final Abstract will be available at my exhibit on Fair Day.


Title: Is it a Bitter Solution to a Sweet Problem or a Sweet Solution to a Bitter Problem?

Abstract: Diabetes is on the rise! Scientific research has isolated bioactive compounds in the

bitter melon fruit that helps to regulate the metabolism and utilization of glucose. This

experiment will test the efficacy of bitter melon consumption in controlling blood sugar levels.

The participants, who are diabetics, will check their baseline fasting blood sugar level. Next, they

will consume three ounces of the bitter melon juice every other day for twenty days. The

participants will check and record their fasting blood sugar levels everyday using a glucometer.

The data will be studied, and an analysis of the trial will be created.


Title: A Bright Idea

Abstract: Nosocomial Infections are a leading cause of death after being in a hospital

environment. In my experiment I hope to find an alternative way of inhibiting the growth of

bacteria in a hospital setting. In my experiment I will treat a few of strains of bacteria with black



light, and I will also treat the same strains with incandescent light. I hypothesize that if I treat the

strains of bacteria with black light the growth of the bacteria will be inhibited.


Title: The Effects of Acid Rain on Microbial Survivorship

Abstract: The purpose of this experiment was to determine the effects of acid rain on microbial

life. Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus epidermidis were exposed to different concentrations

of sulfuric acid to test this. The null hypotheses for this experiment were sulfuric acid will not

have a significant effect on E. coli survivorship and sulfuric acid will not have a significant

effect on Staph. This experiment was done by diluting sulfuric acid in several test tubes each

containing sterile dilution fluid and one of the bacteria. The solutions were then vortexed and

then plated on LB agar plates. After this, the plates were incubated and allowed to grow. The

resulting colonies were counted. The data seemed to show a decrease in bacterial survivorship as

the concentration of sulfuric acid increased. Then, for the data analysis, an ANOVA was

conducted which showed that for each bacteria at least one of the concentrations varied from

another. Then a Dunnett's test was conducted to determine whether or not each concentration

varied significantly from the control. This showed that all of the concentrations varied

significantly from the control for both bacteria. This data allowed for the rejection of both null

hypotheses. In conclusion, sulfuric acid did seem to have a significant effect on the survivorship

of both kinds of bacteria.


Title: Origin of Genomic Changes in Tumor Cells

Abstract: Cancer is a widespread problem in today's world. Most everyone has heard of it and

have known people coping with cancer. Cancer is a disease caused by the over proliferation of

cells in the body. Enhanced growth of cells is the consequences of defects in DNA caused by

DNA damage. Anything from sunburn to smoking can lead to DNA damage. DNA damage can

result in polyploidy. Polyploidy is when a cell has more chromosomes than usual. Cancer cells

are polyploidy which causes a high rate of DNA mutations thus accumulate genomic

abnormalities aa a remarkably rapid rate, as they are unable to maintain their chromosome

structure and number. So how do cells gain extra chromosomes? I hypothesize that DNA

damage causing lingering chromosomes during mitosis leads to failed cytokinesis and

polyploidy. Lingering chromosomes are chromosomes that do not separate correctly during

mitosis. The effect of this is the failure of cell division or cytokinesis, resulting in one cell with

two times the ordinary amount of chromosomes. To observe failed cell division and lingering

chromosomes; I irradiated tumor cells and examined cytokinesis failure and lingering

chromosomes using epifluorescent microscopy. I then reached the conclusion that lingering

chromosomes induced the failure of cytokinesis and the mutational changes associated with too

many chromosomes in the cell.


Title: Effects of Music on Muscle Responsiveness and Stamina

Abstract: Many athletes use music during their workouts. Being curious as to whether or not

the type of music mattered, this experiment was designed to determine if a certain type of music

would allow participants to hold their arm extended longer while holding a weight. It was



determined that subjects who listened to no music had the most muscle control while subjects

who listened to classical music had the least muscle control.


Title: Epigenetic Difference in Lung Cancers

Abstract: The purpose of my project was to analyze the epigenetic difference in lung cancers

driven by

Ras and EGFR. Using five different cells, I examined the RNA levels of DNMT1, DNMT3a,

and DNMT3b. The five cells were ML, 3KTG, 3KTGD, 3KTGM, and 3KTGR. My procedure

consisted of to culture human bronchial epithelial cells, lysis cells in TRIzol reagent, extract

RNA, make cDNA, and finally do a real time polymerase chain reaction. The data produced

showed the DNMT3a to be up regulated, DNMT1 to be down regulated, and DNMT3b neither.

Further analysis could include analyzing at protein level.


Title: Genetic Mutations and People's Response to Drugsa

Abstract: The question investigated is: Which gene mutations cause people to react differently

when taking the drug Coumadin and what are the reactions that result from the mutations?


Title: WuZhuYu, Manuka Honey, Simvastatin on Lifespan & Catalase Activity

Abstract: The proinflammatory MAPK pathway is inhibited by catalase and has been linked to

dementia and Alzheimer’s disease. Wu-Zhu-Yu (Evodiamine; a Chinese herb), Manuka honey

(MH) and simvastatin have been used as therapeutic agents. Prior research suggests all three

substances affect catalase and the MAPK pathway. To assess their relative impact on catalase

activity I performed a controlled experiment on paired groups of wild-type and catalase deficient

drosophila. Pairs were fed Evodiamine, Simvastatin or MH. I recorded their lifespans and

assessed catalase activity. Both MH and simvastatin increased catalase activity. Only MH

prolonged lifespan. Further research of MH potential is warranted.


Title: Signaling Pathways in Bromelain-Induced Treg Proliferation

Abstract: Asthma is a disease in which the airways are constricted, causing wheezing and

shortness of breath, occurring when the patient’s immune system fails to suppress an exaggerated

immune response to allergens. Bromelain, an enzyme found in pineapples, is a known natural

remedy for asthma, and may work by causing anti-inflammatory T regulatory cells to proliferate.

However, the mechanism by which it causes Treg proliferation remains unknown. My project

will determine whether Bromelain promotes FoxP3 expression, thereby proliferating Tregs, by

using known signaling pathways, specifically MAP kinases and PI3 kinase, or whether it uses its

own novel phosphorylation cascade.




Title: Testing Sunscreen Effectiveness

Abstract: My problem is the effectiveness of the number of SPF in sunscreen. Does the SPF

really matter? What effects does the higher SPF have on skin? If I would apply different amounts

of heat on a product, how much of a difference would it produce?


Title: Slime Mold: Frm. Sol. Maz. to Diag. Can.

Abstract: By the end of 2012, approximately 160,000 people died of lung cancer, most of whom

were diagnosed late. Because of this, finding an efficient diagnostic tool that can be used at

earlier stages is imperative. Studies on lung cancer have found that cancer releases a

hydrocarbon that can be found in the breath of those with lung cancer. Dictyostelium

discoideum, more commonly known as slime mold, is an intelligent protist with a highly

developed tracking system. In my work, I hypothesized that the hydrocarbon would have an

affect on the directional growth of the slime mold. I conducted a double blind study, obtaining

lung cancer and non lung cancer breath samples in saline. I placed the sample in a zig zag well

between a slime mold and its food source. Over a four day period I observed its growth, and

found that my hypothesis was proved. Armed with this knowledge, future studies to create a 'dip-

stick' like diagnostic tool with maximum efficiency in diagnosing lung cancer early have now

become a possibility.


Title: What's the Effect of Exercise on the Quality of Sleep?

Abstract: The purpose of this experiment was to find out if exercising can help a person sleep

better. Five participants exercised for 30 minutes a day for a week, then described how they slept

each night. The next week they did not exercise, then reported how they slept that week. The

results showed that on the days that the participants exercised they slept better the most nights.

More of them said that they slept worse when they did not exercise. This shows that people get a

better night sleep when they exercise on a regular basis.


Title: Resistance is Futile?

Abstract: The efficacy of the addition of caffeine to ampicillin to kill ampicillin resistant

Escherichia coli was tested. The combination of caffeine and ampicillin was hypothesizes to kill

ampicillin resistant E. coli due to an interaction between the caffeine and ampicillin. To test the

effects of the combination, eight inoculated petri dishes were divided into four parts and Kirby-

Bauer test was used. Four disks were placed in each dish: One treated with 25µL of sterile PBS

buffer one with 25µL of 10µg/mL of ampicillin one with 25l of 10µg/mL caffeine, and

one with caffeine and ampicillin. Data thus far is inconclusive.


Title: L-arginine remediation of stressed C2C12 stem cells

Abstract: The purpose of this experiment was to determine the remediation effects of L-arginine

on the proliferation of stressed 3T3 fibroblast cells. These 3T3 fibroblast cells were cultured in



DMEM media and were suspended after trypsinization. H2O2 was added in order to stress the

cells. The desired concentrations of L-arginine were then added to these cells. Cell counts were

taken on day 1 and day 3. Data analysis suggests L-arginine did not significantly affect the

proliferation of non-stressed 3T3 fibroblast cells, H2O2 did significantly stress the cells, and L-

arginine significantly aided the survivorship of the 3T3 fibroblast cells at all concentrations.


Title: Concussion Risk of Improper Helmet Fitting

Abstract: For protection against serious concussion damage, proper fitting helmets should be a

top priority. This experiment sought to test the damage to a head depending on the helmet's fit.

Several tests were conducted to measure each fit and gauge the amount of damage to each head.

Results of the experiment are not complete and will be available on fair day. This experiment

may contribute to the overall safety of impact sports based on proper size helmet requirements.


Title: Phospholipids as Phagcytotic Signals

Abstract: Phagocytosis needs to be signaled, and this study focused on the use of phospholipids

as signals. Liposomes were composed of mixtures of phosphatidylcholine, which is the major

phospholipid form present in cellular membranes, and a certain kind of phospholipid:

phosphatidylserine, phosphatidylinositol, phosphatidylgylcerol, phosphatidylserine,

phosphatidylethanolamine. These liposomes were dyed yellow and incubated with dishes of

phagocytes, which were dyed red. After giving ample time for phagocytosis, lipids were washed

off and the phagocytes were put through a flow-cytometry machine, which counted the number

of yellow cells (indicating ingestion of liposome) and red cells (indicating no ingestion of

liposome).


Title: qPCR on Rabies-Infected Cells

Abstract: 97% of people whose brains become infected with rabies will die. The rabies virus can

pass through the blood brain barrier, unlike other pathogens, which means it can proliferate in

the brain and not be affected by T-cells and B-cells. If the rabies virus can be stopped before it

reaches the brain, it can prevent these deaths or if a vaccine can be created that can enter the

brain through the blood brain barrier. The purpose of my project was to use the technique of

multiplexing to detect genes in a single experimental sample. The cells that were infected with

the GGG virus and the DRV4 virus displayed a significantly lower copy number of the DRV4

gene in comparison to cells that were only infected with the DRV4 virus. Also, the uninfected

cells displayed a larger amount of the L13 gene.


Title: Brain Quest: Cell tracing with CFSE

Abstract: In the United States 97% of rabies patients who have experienced the rabies virus’s

spread to the brain will not survive. This is mainly due to the immune system which will not stop

the movement of the virus and the blood brain barrier which will stop defense cells passage into

the brain. Much research has been conducted in the interest of moving defense cells through or



around the blood brain barrier. In vitro cell testing for the most ideal cell proliferation conditions

using mitogens were conducted along with in vivo cell proliferation observation. During the in

vitro trials cells were extracted from mice spleens, stained with Carboxyfluorescein Succinimidyl

Ester (CFSE), and finally plated and read with flow cytometry. During the in vivo trials cultured

test cells were stained with CFSE, injected into mice brains, and later extracted and read with a

flow cytometer to trace growth. It was shown during in vitro testing trial 1 that the most affective

micro molar concentration of CFSE dye was 5 and the most effective cell proliferating mitogens

was Phytohemagglutinin. Second in vitro trial results were not gathered, thus all linking

hypotheses are pending. Cells were successfully extracted from mice brains but not accurately

read in the flow cytometer. Based on the data it was concluded that of the tested conditions

spleen cells proliferate most effectively in a 5micro molar concentration of CFSE with

Phytohemagglutinin. This research can be used in future reference in investigations involving

CFSE staining, in vivo cell proliferation, and investigations involving cell culturing with

mitogens.

Senior – Physics (SPH), 9th-12th Grade


Project Number: SPH101 Grade: 10

Title: Does the Density of the Wood Composing a Baseball Bat Affect the Amount of Kinetic

Energy a Baseball Will Possess When Struck?

Abstract: Determine if the density of the wood composing a bat affects the amount of KE a

baseball possesses when struck by the bat. As the density of the wood composing a bat

increases, the amount of KE a baseball possesses when struck by the bat will increase.Attach a

baseball bat billet to the testing apparatus. Drop a baseball from a height of 85cm, and determine

the amount of KE it possesses after striking the billet. Repeat this process 29 times. Then test

the remaining types of wood billets. Conduct a 2nd trial. Experiment in progress.


Title: Which material causes the most static electricity?

Abstract: Finding static electricity interesting lead to the development of this experiment and the

search for the material that produced the most static electricity. The hypothesis was that hair

would create the most static electricity. The results of the experiment support the hypothesis.


Title: Bend or Break

Abstract: The purpose of this experiment was to determine how soaking samples of different

species of wood would affect their pliability. The hypothesis was that if the samples were all

soaked under the same conditions, then the hardwoods would have a greater percent increase in

pliability than softwoods. The hypothesis was tested by making two groups of wood samples,

measuring the pliability of the samples in one group dry, and measuring the samples in the other

group after soaking in water. The two groups were then compared and the change of pliability in

degrees for each species of wood was calculated. The hardwoods had a greater percent increase

in pliability than the softwoods, so the hypothesis was proven.


Title: Circular Wheel vs Reuleaux Triangle

Abstract: Construct Reuleaux triangles and circular wheels of 8cm diameter or side

measurement out of clay. Measure distance traveled for each shape on a ramp.


Title: Drink Content Analysis with a DIY Spectrometer

Abstract: The goal of this project is to detect the contents in drinks available in supermarkets

and to measure them with a DIY spectrometer. My procedure includes: collecting samples from

drinks, building a DIY spectrometer, testing with samples, and writing analytical results. The

DIY spectrometer will be built using the frame of a VHS tape box, webcam, light diffraction

film, and black construction paper. Testing samples include a number of popular drinks found in

local supermarkets. I will use a light spectrum analysis software on a computer to analyze my

results and compare them to similar materials from online datasets from sources such as the

Public Lab Databases. The outcomes will contain the spectrometer curves and component

analysis results. Here, I hypothesize that I will be able to get the characteristics of contents from

the light diffraction properties from my DIY spectrometer.




Title: Focusing Wireless Signals

Abstract: Several wireless reflectors were built and tested for a wireless router and laptop

computer. Different sizes of reflectors were used in trials to determine what impact would be

seen on signal strength and area. It was believed that a large parabolic shape would work best

and as the parabola became smaller the signal would be decreased in strength and limited as to

the area it covers. It was found that the signal strength was significantly increased with any size

reflector. The size of the reflector did not greatly impact this increase in signal strength.


Title: Pseudo Migratory Magnetic Monopoles

Abstract: This experiment was to determine if it was possible to create pseudo migratory

magnetic monopoles using a honeycomb (hexagonal) pattern of free moving neodymium bar

magnets. It attempted to make the pseudo magnetic monopole mimic the behavior of quasi

particles. After a multiple formations were exhausted, it was concluded that the honeycomb

pattern was insufficient to create the correct quantity of magnetic frustration to allow the

equation to succeed.


Title: Domino Theory

Abstract: The purpose of this project is to better understand the physics behind falling

dominoes. My hypothesis is If the dominoes are tested at 0.5 cm intervals apart (0.5 cm – 4.0

cm) from each other, then the ones set closer together will have faster speeds. To test this, first

line up 28 standard dominoes and time how long it takes for them to all fall down at the different

distances between each. Then just analyse the results and draw conclusions. The results will be

shown at the fair.


Title: Cymbal Sound

Abstract: The purpose of the experiment was to see how the size of a cymbal effects the sound's

intensity in decibels. It was hypothesized that a larger cymbal would be more intense. A ball

was dropped on a cymbal from a height in intervals of two inches until a maximum height of

twelve inches was reached. Although there was variation in the data, the smallest cymbal was

the loudest.


Title: The Effects of Temperature on Blood Spatters

Abstract: The goal of this blood pattern analysis experiment is to determine if the temperature of

the blood itself, or the environment it is in contact with, affects the way blood spatters. To

conduct these experiments a number of trials were conducted using a stagnant one drop blood

spatter method. The results of the one drop test may predict how actual blood spatters occur

when temperatures of the body or environment change. The exact results of the experiment will



be available on fair day. The findings of this experiment may have a real world application to

further understanding blood spatter analysis.


Title: Impact of Shape on the Radar Detectability of Aircraft

Abstract: This project is about how shape affects the way E.M. radiation - especially radio,

light, and infrared – can sense an aircraft. I hypothesized that a jagged W- or V-shape would

cause the least scatter of light while a curved, flat, or crumpled shape would cause the greatest

scatter of light. Ti perform this experiment, I took a box covered totally with black paper on the

inside and attached a flashlight and lux meter to it. I then inserted test shapes and recorded the

amount of deflected light. As per my hypothesis, the V- and W- shapes scattered the least light.


Title: RF Antenna Gain vs Distance

Abstract: This project was to test the antenna gain of several different common antennas at three

different frequencies. Each antenna (expect for the antenna of known gain) was homemade. Two

measurements were needed to determine the gain of the antenna under test. In each

measurement, one antenna was connected to the signal generator, and the other one is connected

to an oscilloscope. The antennas were mounted over tripods at fixed positions. The reference

gain and the reference level were determined by the antenna of known gain. The antenna of

known gain was connected to the signal generator and a third antenna (not the antenna under

test) was connected to the oscilloscope. After arranging the two antennas to read the maximum

value for the received signal, this value was recorded as the reference level. Without changing

the conditions of the experiment, I exchanged the antenna of known gain with the antenna under

test. The value of the received signal was recorded as the measured level. The equation I used

was Gain = Reference Gain + (Measured Level -Reference Level).


Title: Using Ultracapacitors to Store Wind Generated Power

Abstract: The purpose of this project was to determine whether the incorporation of an

anemometer and ultracapacitor in a wind driven generator could increase the electricity being

generated and how the electricity would be utilized on the electrical grid. If an adjustable speed

drive is used to optimize the speed of a wind driven generator and the energy generated is sorted

in an ultracapacitor, then more energy could be captured from a wind driven generator over a

wider range of wind speeds. The results of the experiment showed that an increase in the energy

generated by a wind driven generator.


Title: Keep You in Suspens(ion)

Abstract: The purpose of my project is to see which of two types of bridges (beam and

suspension bridges) are stronger. The question posed was how does the structure of a bridge

affect the amount of weight the bridge is able to hold?

The investigator conducted research about suspension bridges and beam bridges and found that

beam bridges are less costly to build and are used for pedestrian bridges and highway overpasses.



Suspension bridges are generally considered to be a stronger type of bridge and are used over

bodies of water.

Both types of bridges were constructed using household materials. Several trials were performed

to test the strength of the two types of bridges. Pennies were used as a mass to determine which

type of bridge could hold the most pennies. The results showed that the suspension-type bridge

was able to carry a greater mass than the beam bridge. In conclusion, suspension bridges,

because of their structural design, are stronger than beam bridges.


Title: Breaking Point

Abstract: The purpose of this experiment was to determine the effects of alterations on the

strength of balsa wood. In order to do so, I carved various patterns into samples of balsa wood

and caused them to fail. I gathered data using Logger Pro software and a dual-range force senor.

I found that there is an inverse relationship between the amount of alteration on a sample of balsa

wood and the amount of force that it withstands.


Title: Is More Expensive .22 Caliber Ammunition More Accurate Than Less Expensive

Ammunition?

Abstract: Determine if more expensive .22bullets will penetrate and be more accurate than less

expensive ones. More expensive bullets will penetrate a greater depth and be more accurate than

less expensive ones. Obtain 50 bullets similar in mass for each brand being tested. Attach the

rifle to a gun vise. Setup a target for testing penetration and a different target for determining

accuracy. Fire 25 rounds of one of the brands of bullet being tested. Determine each bullets

depth of penetration and accuracy. Repeat this process for each brand of bullet being tested.

Experiment still occurring


Title: Cell Phone Radiation

Abstract: One of the popular topics on the news and internet is the debate about cell phone

usage and if cell phones give off harmful radiation that can harm humans. The purpose of this

investigation is to determine which type of cell phone emits the highest levels of radiation.

Three different types of cell phones were collected, the apple iPhone 4S, LG ENV3 and the

Samsung Galaxy III. Each phone was tested four times in four different modes. The off mode,

on mode, text message mode and call mode. After each phone was tested, three separate data

tables were constructed to display the results from each phone. The LG ENV3 was found to

emit the highest level of radiation.


Title: Heat's Effect on Bouncy Balls

Abstract: In my experiment, I wanted to test out how higher or lower temperatures affect a

bouncy ball’s rebound height. I thought of this experiment when I was playing basketball, when

the ball just mysteriously gets more inflated when it is in the hot environment of our car, and



how it shrinks a little bit when we get outside. For this experiment, my hypothesis was that since

heat expands the air inside a confined space such as a bouncy ball, it will act as if the ball had

been inflated, which will make it bounce higher, and thus higher temperature will make balls

bounce higher, and lower temperatures will make the ball do the opposite. I only needed 2

temperatures to decide on which one is greater, so I chose one a little below room temperature

and one below 0 degrees Celsius. I investigated this by recording the motion of a bouncy ball in

2 environments, outside and inside, for cold and hot, respectively. I did 20 trials of dropping the

ball, and found that the hotter temperature indeed had the higher mean rebound height. From

this conclusion, I can say that I have successfully proved my hypothesis. This experiment also

connects to why objects bounce higher when inflated, because of higher air pressure, and using

the nature of heated objects and the fact that they expand, this also ties to my prediction that heat

acts as an inflator to these balls.


Title: Energy Storage by lifting Water

Abstract: Is there an alternate form of energy storage using the method of pumping water and

using it to power an electric generator? Can this method be efficient enough to provide an

alternative for batteries?


Title: Effects of Impurities on Water Cooling

Abstract: The purpose of my experiment is to determine how impurities present in water affect

the Mpemba Effect, which states that hot water can sometimes freeze at a faster

rate than cold water. I hypothesize that the addition of impurities will increase

the speed at which the water will freeze. Water will be heated immediately prior

to testing, and placed in a freezing, icy slurry. The temperature will be recorded

at regular intervals, the time to freeze identified, and the data analyzed. Room

temperature water will be the control. Different impurities will be tested, as

will different temperatures.


Title: What material blocks radio waves the best?

Abstract: This experiment tested the effect of a variety of materials on the transmittance of radio

waves. The radio waves were generated between two cell phones. One phone was used to call

another phone that was placed within a box constructed of one of the test materials. The length

of time until the second phone received the call was measured. The materials tested included

aluminum foil, wood, concrete, plastic, and rubber. Aluminum foil was hypothesized to block

radio waves the best.


Title: A Journey into Effects of Sound Waves on Processors

Abstract: The purpose of this experiment was to investigate whether sound waves can influence

Java-generated random numbers. Java uses a pseudo-random number generator, which means

that it gives results which appear to be random but are not. Through experience,the investigator



knew that at a certain frequency a processor will stop working. The investigator questioned

whether sound waves could have an effect on random number generation. This was measured in

the output of a random number generator.As previously stated, Java uses a pseudo-random

number generator, and as such, instead of directly adding the decibel level of the room to a

certain number (such as 1 or 0) the seed was set to the current decibel level of the room. Several

different sound wave patterns were tested multiple times. Two generators were set up: One as a

control without the seed of the generator being set, and the second generator with the seed set at

the current decibel level of the room. These generators generated 0's and 1's for approximately

10 seconds each. The final result showed that the Java-random number generator can indeed be

affected by certain sound waves.


Title: Effect of Angle of Wings on Flight

Abstract: This project was used to determine the effect of the angle of wings on flight. The three

wing angles I chose were -15 degrees, 0 degrees, and 15 degrees. I tested each glider for distance

10 times and recorded results. I am interested in Aerospace Engineering and hope to pursue a

career in this field. However, to accomplish this, i have to start by conducting simple

experiments such as this.


Title: Effect of Temperature on Conductivity & resistance

Abstract: This experiment will investigate how temperature affects the conductivity and

resistance of a relatively thin diameter copper wire. The expected outcome is that when the

temperature of a wire increases, the resistance value of the wire will also increase and the

conductivity will decrease.


Title: Fractography: The Way Things Break

Abstract: The problem is, "To study and investigate whether various materials fracture in

similar patterns when subjected to impact forces." It is hypothesized that, "If various materials

are subject to the same impact force, then each pattern will be unique. If variables like

temperaure,the supporting surface under the material, and weight are changed, the fracture

pattern will change.

The results do support the hypothesis.


Title: Long Range Bullet Tips

Abstract: In this experiment, different bullet tips were tested for accuracy. The idea for the

project came from the need for a very accurate ammunition to control the coyote population on

the farm. The three different ammunitions were tested at 100 yards. The full metal jacket bullet

out performed the other two tips.

project number: «projectnumber»

Documents