The Seventh Annual

Science Research Symposium

University of Illinois at Springfield

Brookens Auditorium

Lower Level of Brookens Library&

Brookens Auditorium Concourse

20 April 2007

Note: * = student; underline = presenter-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------8:30-9:00 INFORMATION TABLE & REFRESHMENTS

Brookens Auditorium Concourse-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------MORNING ORAL PRESENTATIONS (9:00-10:3O a.m.)Chemistry, Computer and Mathematical SciencesBrookens Auditorium, Lower Level of Brookens Library

Moderator: Rachel Olson (UIS Biology Student)

9:00-9:10 Opening Remarks - Dr. Michael LemkeProfessor of Biology and Director of Emiquon Field Station

9:10-9:30 From Amazing Formulas to Elementary Particle PhysicsChan, Hei-Chi. Mathematical Sciences Program, University of Illinois at Springfield,

Springfield, IL 62703

9:30-9:50 Modeling Rational Behavior in Intelligent Agents with Game TheoryCollins, Daniel *, Vermier, Andrew*, and Sviatoslav Braynov. Computer Science Program, University of Illinois at Springfield, Springfield, IL 62703

9:50-10:10 A Greener Synthetic Route to The ICI2 – Anion. A General Chemistry Synthesis Experiment Involving Interesting Redox Chemistry.Owen, Benjamin C. * and Marc A. Klingshirn. Chemistry Program, University of

Illinois at Springfield, Springfield, IL 62703

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------10:15 – 10:30 REFRESHMENT BREAK

Brookens Auditorium Concourse----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

10:30-12:00 POSTER SESSIONBrookens Auditorium Concourse(This is the time to interact with poster authors)

CHEMISTRY, PSYCHOLOGY, & BIOLOGICAL SCIENCES POSTERS[1] Learning Styles Impact Academic Performance in Group and Individual Study EnvironmentsBarnes, Amy L.*, Studebaker, Jeremy W., Rogers, Meghan, and Reminger, Sheryl L. Psychology Program, University of Illinois at Springfield, Springfield, IL 62703 [2] A Comparative Study of Trichome Diversity in Various Mexican Oak (Quercus) SpeciesCosenza, Nicole*, and Lucia Vazquez. Biology Program, University of Illinois at Springfield, Springfield, IL 62703

[3] Design and Optimization of Small Ribosomal Subunit (18S rRNA) PCR Primers to Characterize Green Algae CommunitiesDang, That*, and Jim Bonacum. Biology Program, University of Illinois at Springfield, Springfield, IL. 62703

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[4] Methods for Alignment of Nickel NanowiresHayes, Christina G.* and Keenan Dungey. Chemistry Program, University of Illinois at Springfield, Springfield, IL 62703

[5] Synthesis of Lithium Cobalt Oxide by Emulsion and High TemperatureHynek, Steven J.*1, Andrew Dunn 2, Anthony Kilburn 1 and Keenan Dungey1

.. 1Chemistry

Program, University of Illinois at Springfield, Springfield, IL 62703 2. Department of Chemistry, Millikin University, Decatur, IL 62522.

[6] Mitochondrial Genomics of NautilusIrlam, Justin *, and Jim Bonacum. Biology Program, University of Illinois at Springfield, Springfield, IL 62703

[7] Activated Carbons as Sorption Media for the Safe Disposal of Heavy MetalsLong, Brandon R.*, and Harshavardhan Bapat. Chemistry Program, University of Illinois at Springfield, Springfield, IL 62703.

[8] Judging Others at Zero Acquaintance: Questions About Traits, Actors and AccuracyMcColez, Tori*, Ladage, Jen*, and Marcel Yoder. Psychology Program, University of Illinois at Springfield, Springfield, IL 62703

[9] Macroinvertebrate Biomass and Abundances from Restored Wetlands Along the Illinois River FloodplainNegro, Jaclyn M.* 1 and Maria Lemke2. 1Biology Program, University of Illinois at Springfield, Springfield, IL 62703 2 The NatureConservancy, Illinois Chapter, 301 SW Adams Street, Suite 1007, Peoria, IL 61602

[10] Utilizing Molecular Barcoding Techniques to Document the Restoration of the Emiquon PreserveQuinn, Kathleen 1 , Michael Lemke1, Maria Lemke2, Leon Hinz3 and James Bonacum1 . 1Biology Program, University of Illinois at Springfield, Springfield, IL 62703, 2The Nature Conservancy, Peoria, IL 61602, 3Illinois Natural History Survey, Springfield, IL 62702

[11] Bacterial Diversity and Water Quality of Illinois River Floodplain LakesRandle, Michelle* 1 , Hofmann, Christine 2 , Keenan Dungey 2, Michael Lemke 1, Biology Program 1 and Chemistry Program 2, University of Illinois at Springfield, Springfield, IL 62703

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------12:00 - 1:10 Lunch

On your own; for our guests, we suggest dining at the UIS Food Court, Lower Level, Public

Affairs Center (PAC)----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

AFTERNOON ORAL PAPER SESSION (1:10-3:00 p.m.)Biological SciencesBrookens Auditorium, Lower Level of Brookens Library

Moderators: Doyn Kellerhals (UIS M.S. Biology Student)

1:10-1:30 A Preliminary Investigation of Microevolution of Selected Pathogenic Microbes to Essential OilsBryson, Stacey *, and Juanita Leonhard. Biology Department of Illinois College,

Jacksonville, IL 62650

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1:30-1:50 Investigation of Antibiotic Properties of Leaf Extracts from Juglans nigra, Quercus alba, and Quercus rubaBuckingham, Brad *, Wayne Gade, Amy McEuen, Gary Trammell, Lucia Vazquez, and James Veselenak, Programs of Chemistry, Clinical Laboratory Sciences, and Biology, University of Illinois at Springfield, Springfield, IL 62703

1:50-2:10 Transcription Factor Glial Cell Missing-1 Regulates Cell Type Specific Expression of Human Placenta Growth FactorChang, Miao* , Groesch Kathy , Mukherjea Debbie, Torry Donald S, Departments of Medical Microbiology, Immunology, and Cell Biology, and Obstetrics and Gynecology, Southern Illinois University School of Medicine, Springfield, IL. 62702

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------2:10 – 2:20 REFRESHMENT BREAK

Brookens Auditorium Concourse---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

2:20-2:4 0 Antimicrobial Properties of Juglans nigra Bark and Leaf Extracts

Jones, Nicole J. * and Lucia Vazquez. Biology Program, University of Illinois at Springfield, Springfield, IL 62703

2:40 - 3:00 The Bacterial Assemblage at the Air-Water Interface of a Freshwater Lake with Implications for Organophosphate Nutrient CyclingPaver, Sara F.*, and Michael Lemke Biology Program, University of Illinois at Springfield, Springfield, IL 62703

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------3:00 - 4:00 KEYNOTE ADDRESS

May R. Benenbaum “Webworms and Parsnips: A Case History in Chemical Evolution”

Brookens Auditorium

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4:00-4:30 AWARD PRESENTATIONS : Best Student Poster and Best Oral Presentation

Closing Remarks – Michael Lemke

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4:30 – 6:00 SOCIAL & RECEPTION: Brookens Concourse -- Refreshments served

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KEYNOTE ADDRESS

MAY R. BENENBAUMDEPARTMENT OF ENTOMOLOGY

UNIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS AT URBANA-CHAMPAIGN

“Webworms and parsnips: A case History in Chemical Evolution”

Dr. Berenbaum is interested in the chemical interactions between herbivorous insects and their host plants, and the implications of such interactions on the organization of natural communities and the evolution of species. Her particular research interests focus on the secondary chemistry of the Umbelliferae (carrot family) and the insect associates of these herbaceous plants. Current research approaches insect/plant co-evolution at several levels. At the physiological level, her lab is investigating the modes of action and mechanisms of action of plant secondary metabolite defensive compounds in insect.

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ABSTRACTSLEARNING STYLES IMPACT ACADEMIC PERFORMANCE IN GROUP AND INDIVIDUAL STUDY ENVIRONMENTSAmy L. Barnes*, Jeremy W. Studebaker, Meghan Rogers, and Sheryl L. RemingerPsychology Program, University of Illinois at Springfield, Springfield, IL 62703This study investigated whether learning styles have an effect on performance in a variety of academically related tasks. Fifty-two participants completed a learning style inventory and were randomly assigned to either a group or individual study condition. Participants completed a pre-test measure, were given time to study test materials, and then completed a post-test measure. Results showed that active learners demonstrated better performance on specific tasks after studying in a group environment, whereas reflective learners demonstrated better performance after studying in an individual environment. By identifying and utilizing an individual’s learning style, educators have greater potential to increase academic performance.

A PRELIMINARY INVESTIGATION OF MICROEVOLUTION OF SELECTED PATHOGENIC MICROBES TO ESSENTIAL OILSBryson, Stacey * and Juanita Leonhard. Biology Department of Illinois College, Jacksonville, IL 62650Essential oils derived from higher plants have been used for centuries for their medicinal properties. During the last 30 years a large number of studies have been performed to evaluate the anti-microbial activity of these oils. Development of microbial resistance to antibiotics (chemotherapeutic agents) has become a significant medical problem. Our present study investigated the possibility that microbes may also be capable of developing resistance to essential oils. We employed the disk diffusion method which had been used in a previous study for determining anti-microbial activity of essential oils. We tested distillation-derived essential oil extracts from Eucalyptus globules, E. citriodora, Melaleuca alternifolia (Myrtaceae), Lavandula angustifolia, and Ocimum sanctum (Lamiaceae) against Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, Serratia marcescens, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and the yeast Candida albicans. Sequential selection of colonies closest to the zone of inhibition for repeat testing was used to monitor any reduction in the size of the zone suggesting evolution of resistance. After six trial passages Basil Holly and Tea Tree oils demonstrated the greatest anti-microbial activity against S. aureus, E. coli, and Candida albicans. After just one trial Eucalyptus lemon had no activity against Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Candida albicans. The possibility that microbes may evolve resistance to essential oils is an important consideration in their use.

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INVESTIGATION OF ANTIBIOTIC PROPERTIES OF LEAF EXTRACTS FROM JUGLANS NIGRA, QUERCUS ALBA, AND QUERCUS RUBRABrad Buckingham*, 1Lucia Vazquez, Amy McEuen1, James Veselenak2, Gary Trammell3, Wayne Gade2. 1Biology Program, 2Clinical Laboratory Sciences, 3Chemistry Program, University of Illinois at Springfield, IL 62703.Plants possess phytochemicals that may contain antibiotic activity. Plant extracts from many species have been investigated for antibiotic compounds, but there are still many untested species. Previous tests of Quercus ilex and Juglans neotropicans plant extracts have shown that they have antibiotic properties, which suggests that other members of these genera may also contain these types of compounds. Accordingly, the objective of this study was to test leaf extracts from Quercus alba (white oak), Quercus rubra (red oak), and Juglans nigra (black walnut) for antibacterial properties. Leaf extracts prepared using methanol and hexane were tested against Bacillus cereus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Enterococcus faecalis, Staphylococcus epidermidis, and Escherichia coli using the disc diffusion assay. Two extract concentrations were tested (0.4 mg and 0.8 mg/ul) and they showed antimicrobial activities ranging from less than 1 mm to 28 mm. Higher extract concentrations exhibit greater antimicrobial effects. Juglans nigra had activity against every bacterial species for both concentrations and produced about 10 mm of inhibition. The exception for this trend was Staphylococcus epidermidis which only produced inhibition zones around 15-25mm. Leaf extracts from Quercus alba and Quercus rubra at a 0.4 mg/ul concentration were unable to inhibit growth of Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Similarly, extracts of the latter species did not inhibit the growth of Staphylococcus epidermidis. In all tests, Escherichia coli had the largest zones of inhibition; however, there was stunted growth within these larger zones. The reason for this phenomenon is still under investigation. Future research will include the isolation and characterization of the compounds responsible for the observed antibiotic activity.

THE AMAZING GOLDEN RATIOChan, Hei-Chi*, Mathematical Sciences Program, University of Illinois at Springfield, Springfield, IL 62703Golden Ratio is one of the most studied constants in history. In this talk, I will discuss two recent and interesting results on this wonderful constant: the continued fraction representation of the powers of the Golden Ratio and a Wallis-type for the Golden Ratio. I will also discuss its connections with Quantum Theory.

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TRANSCRIPTION FACTOR GLIAL CELL MISSING-1 REGULATES CELL TYPE SPECIFIC EXPRESSION OF HUMAN PLACENTA GROWTH FACTOR Miao Chang * , Kathy Groesch , Debbie Mukherjea, and Donald S. Torry Departments of Medical Microbiology, Immunology, and Cell Biology, and Obstetrics and Gynecology Southern Illinois University School of Medicine, Springfield, IL 62702Placenta growth factor (PlGF) levels are significantly lower in preeclamptic patients than in normal pregnant women. High PlGF expression occurs in trophoblast but is comparatively lower in most non-trophoblast, suggesting unique regulatory mechanisms govern trophoblast PlGF gene expression. We sought to characterize promoter regions that regulate PlGF transcription in human trophoblast. PlGF promoter constructs were transfected into trophoblast and non-trophoblast to define functional regions. Site directed mutagenesis and overexpression were performed to verify potential transcription factor(s) regulating PlGF promoter activity. Real-time RT-PCR determined effects of hypoxia on a plausible regulator of PlGF expression in both trophoblast and non-trophoblast. PlGF (-1521) and (-828) regions produced high promoter activity in trophoblast, but little activity in non-trophoblast. PlGF (-844/-677) region functioned as an enhancer in trophoblast but not other cells and computer analyses revealed a GCM-1 binding site in this region. Mutation of the GCM-1 binding site significantly decreased enhancer activity in trophoblast. Overexpression of GCM-1 augmented PlGF transcriptional activity in trophoblast and induced significant expression in non-trophoblast. We confirmed GCM-1 expression in trophoblast and that GCM-1 mRNA was decreased significantly by hypoxia. These results indicate, for the first time, that PlGF promoter activity is differentially regulated in various cell types and that GCM-1 contributes to trophoblast specific PlGF expression. Hypoxia-mediated decrease in trophoblast GCM-1 expression may contribute to decreased PlGF levels noted in preeclampsia.

MODELING RATIONAL BEHAVIOR IN INTELLIGENT AGENTS WITH GAME THEORYCollins, Daniel*, Vermie, Andrew*, and Sviatoslav Braynov. Computer Science Program, University of Illinois at Springfield, Springfield, IL 62703As technology continues to advance and we become more dependent on intelligent agents, understanding how intelligent agents cooperate or compete with each other to serve our best interests becomes imperative. The objective of this study is to investigate how game theory is used to model rational behavior in intelligent agents including its advantages and disadvantages. Several scenarios have been prepared showing how the fundamentals of game theory can model rational behavior in intelligent agents both competing and cooperating. Each scenario shows how implementing rational behavior with game theory affects the actions of the agents and the overall outcomes. The final result of these scenarios shows the usefulness of game theory in modeling rational behavior along with potential problems associated with defining rational behavior. In summary, this study is interested in the benefits and implications of game theory in modeling rational behavior in intelligent agents participating in multiagent systems.

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A COMPARATIVE STUDY OF TRICHOME DIVERSITY IN VARIOUS MEXICAN OAK (QUERCUS) SPECIESCosenza, Nicole*, and Lucía Vázquez. Biology Program, University of Illinois at Springfield, Springfield, IL 62703The genus Quercus is one of the most abundant and important of all the woody genera in the Northern Hemisphere. Oak species are typically identified using leaf, acorn, and twig morphology, along with genetic and biochemical markers. In general, identification of oak species is very challenging because they show extensive anatomical and morphological variation. Of the vegetative characters, leaf trichomes have proven useful in the circumscription of some European, North American, and Mexican oak species. Despite that Mexico is the center of oak species diversity in the Western Hemisphere, only 30 species out of the 200 oak species native to this country have been studied in detail for their leaf trichome characteristics. The purpose of this study is to examine the trichome characteristics of thirteen Mexican white oak species, and to determine their utility in species identification. Mature leaves from these thirteen species were collected in the field and in herbaria, and examined with light and scanning electron microscopy to determine trichome types present on the lower surface of leaves. Trichome ray number and length (m) were measured and nested ANOVAs were run to determine significance of measurements in discriminating between the various Quercus species. Results indicate significant differences in average ray number and ray length between the various Quercus species. Furthermore, this study shows that trichome types are useful in the identification of only a subset of the species studied.

DESIGN AND OPTIMIZATION OF SMALL RIBOSOMAL SUBUNIT (18S rRNA) PCR PRIMERS TO CHARACTERIZE GREEN ALGAE COMMUNITIES That Dang*, and Jim Bonacum, Biology Program, University of Illinois at Springfield, Springfield, IL 62703Emiquon was once a productive floodplain on the Illinois River. With agricultural involvement, this landscape consisted of corn and soybeans. Now, the Emiquon reserve is being restored to its previous floodplain condition, which will presumably affect many biological niches. Here we report the design of the first series of PCR primers that will be used to assess protistan diversity as the restoration proceeds. The first group we have chosen to study is the paraphyletic assemblage commonly known as the green algae. Sequences for the small ribosomal subunit (18srRNA) were obtained from Genbank for the following orders: Prasinophytes, Chlorophyceae, Trebouxiophyceae, Ulvophyceae, Chlorokybales, Klebsormidiales, Zygnematales, Charales, and Coleochaetales. These sequences were aligned using CLUSTALX and conserved regions were used to design four sets of PCR primers. Two sets will amplify a large fragment, which will be used for cloning and sequencing followed by species identification by phylogenetic methods. The remaining two sets will amplify a smaller fragment that will be used for Denaturing Gradient Gel Electrophoresis (DGGE). These primers are currently being tested on a series of algal cultures. Once conditions have been optimized we will then expand our efforts to determine if they can be used to reliably diagnose the various species of algae present in environmental samples and provide a molecular

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record of the restoration of the floodplain.

METHODS FOR ALIGNMENT OF NICKEL NANOWIRESHayes, Christina G.* and Keenan Dungey. Chemistry Program, University of Illinois at Springfield, Springfield, IL 62703Nanoparticles have important properties and the study of these particles is increasing to cover a wide variety of fields. Nanoparticles used in devices will help increase data storage density and enhance computer speed. Nanoparticles will also provide sensitive chemical detection in the future. Our project involves the preparation and alignment of long, thin nanoparticles. Nanowires have different properties dependant upon their orientation. By controlling the alignment, the properties of the nanowires can be studied in bulk. Nickel nanowires were synthesized and then aligned in a variety of ways. Liquid crystal alignment, capillary action, and magnet field alignment were all used to study how Ni nanowires can orient. When using capillary action to align the nanowires, a ray pattern was observed. However, by the use of a horseshoe shaped magnet, the nanowires were oriented along the magnetic force lines. With the understanding of how Ni nanowires align, we can apply the alignment techniques to other nanoparticles.

SYNTHESIS OF LITHIUM COBALT OXIDE BY EMULSION AND HIGH TEMPERATUREHynek, Steven J* 1 , Andrew Dunn2, Anthony Kilburn1, and Keenan Dungey1 1Chemistry Program, University of Illinois at Springfield, Springfield, IL 62703. 2Department of Chemistry, Millikin University, Decatur, IL 62522.Today’s electronic gadgets are powered almost exclusively by a form of a lithium battery of some kind. A lithium cobalt oxide battery was developed in the 80’s to help provide a longer amount of power than traditional alkaline batteries of the time. The goal of our research is to increase the efficiency of the lithium batteries. Our hypothesis is that porous LiCoO2 will improve the rechargeability of the battery, and so we are exploring synthetic schemes to increase the porosity. In this presentation we will report our preparation of LiCoO2 from porous precursors. Cobalt double hydroxide was formed via an emulsion solution. Once this cobalt hydroxide was dried, it was then heated to form cobalt oxide. Cobalt oxide and lithium carbonate were mixed and heated to form the final product of lithium cobalt oxide. Infrared Spectroscopy was done throughout the experiment to verify acceptable purity. X-Ray diffraction was used to confirm the identity of the products. The porosity will be measured in the future. The ease of synthesis will have applications for industrial and commercial use if porosity of the product is high.

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MITOCHONDRIAL GENOMICS OF NAUTILUSIrlam, Justin* and Jim Bonacum, Biology Program, University of Illinois at Springfield, Springfield, Il 62703The species assigned to the genus Nautilus are the only externally shelled cephalopods and the sole survivors of an ancient lineage that dates from the mid Paleozoic. Previous studies have suggested that although as many as seven species have been proposed these simply represent morphological variants of the broadly distributed N. pompilius. Genetic data holds a key to diagnosing species within the genus but due to the ancient divergence of this lineage PCR primers are currently available for only two gene regions, the first subunit of Cytochome Oxidase (COI) and the large ribosomal subunit (16s.) Recently the complete mitochondrial genome sequence has been published for N. macromphalus. Using the positions of the genes from this study a 3,326 base pair (bp) fragment of the mitochondrial genome that spans the region separating 16s and COI was amplified by long range PCR and sequenced for 2 representatives of the broadly distributed N. pompilius, representing populations in Fiji and Ndrova Island. A second fragment comprising the 5’ end of the small ribosomal subunit has also been amplified. Together these two fragments represent 4,553 bases, or more than one quarter of the entire mitochondrial genome. Additional primers will be designed that will be used with long range PCR to amplify the entire mitochondrial genome for these samples as well as representatives of two other proposed species, N. belauensis, N. scrobiculatus. These sequences will serve as a source of diagnostic characters for one of the first phylogenetic analyses to use complete mitochondrial genome sequences.

ANTIMICROBIAL PROPERTIES OF Juglans nigra Bark AND LEAF EXTRACTSJones, Nicole J. 1 * , Lucia Vazquez1, James Veselenak2, and Gary Trammel3. 1Biology Program, 2Clinical Laboratory Sciences, 3Chemistry Program, University of Illinois at Springfield, IL 62703.The increasing number of antibiotic resistant microbes highlights the necessity of finding new antibiotics. Plants with a diversity of approximately 300,000 species can contribute to the solution of this problem as evidenced by the fact that they are the sources of about 25% of the prescriptions sold in the Unites States. Despite this high level of plant diversity, only a small number (1-5%) of species have been tested for medicinal properties, which stresses the need for analyzing additional plants. Accordingly, the purpose of this project is to test the bark and leaf extracts of Juglans nigra (black walnut) for antimicrobial activity against four commonly isolated bacteria. Crude extracts of J. nigra samples were prepared in methanol and methanol-chloroform. The disk diffusion method was used to test the antimicrobial properties of the extracts against Bacillus cereus, Enterococcus faecalis, Escherichia coli, and Staphylococcus epidermidis. Of the two types of extracts tested, the leaf extracts showed higher antimicrobial activity against all four tested bacteria than the bark extracts. At the same time, leaf extracts prepared with methanol showed higher antimicrobial properties than the methanol-chloroform extracts. The antimicrobial responses to the bark extracts varied with the bacteria tested. Bacillus cereus showed inhibition zones when both low and high concentrations of crude extract were tested whereas other species, such as E. faecalis, only showed activity when high concentrations of extract were used. This type of research has important implications because it could provide additional sources of antimicrobial compounds, enhancing therefore our limited knowledge on the medicinal properties of plants.

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ACTIVATED CARBONS AS SORPTION MEDIA FOR THE SAFE DISPOSAL OF HEAVY METALSBrandon R. Long* and Harshavardhan Bapat. Chemistry Program, University of Illinois at Springfield, Springfield, IL 62703We are interested in the preparation and the applications of activated carbon made from Milo (Sorghum vulgare) seed utilizing the Chemchar® gasification process. This medium surface area and low ash activated carbon was used for containment and vitrification of heavy metals such as Cobalt and Copper. The objective of this research is to determine a safe disposal method of heavy metals. Leaching studies of the final vitrified form indicated successful containment of the metals in the ash. Successful containment indicates that activated carbons could potentially be used as a heavy metal disposal method.

JUDGING OTHERS AT ZERO ACQUAINTANCE: QUESTIONS ABOUT TRAITS, ACTORS AND ACCURACYTori McColez*, Jen Ladage*, and Marcel Yoder. Psychology Program, University of Illinois at Springfield, Springfield, IL 62703This study used a round-robin person perception methodology developed by Kenny and LaVoie (1984) to test the Social Relations Model of person perception. In this round robin design participants were placed in groups and rated the traits of others in the group at the same time they are being rated by the members of the group. This technique yields estimates of three influences on person perception, the actor, partner, and relationship effects. The actor effect refers to the way an individual generally views others. The partner effect refers to the way an individual is generally viewed by others. The relationship effect taps the unique interaction between two individuals rating each other. By correlating actor and partner effects with others’ ratings, we assessed accuracy of three perceptions: 1) actors’ perceptions of their own traits, 2) actors’ predictions of others’ perceptions of the actors’ trait, and 3) actors’ predictions of others’ perceptions of those others’ own trait (e.g., “She thinks she’s really pretty”). We found that accuracy varied by trait. Generally, we found that individuals were more accurate when judging facial attractiveness than when judging personality traits (e.g., narcissism). The results are interpreted within the framework the Realistic Accuracy Model (RAM, Funder, 1995) that organizes person perception into questions of what makes for good judges, good targets, good traits, and good information.

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MACROINVERTEBRATE BIOMASS AND ABUNDANCES FROM RESTORED WETLANDS ALONG THE ILLINOIS RIVER FLOODPLAINNegro, Jaclyn M.*1 and Maria Lemke2. 1Biology Program, University of Illinois at Springfield, Springfield, IL 62703. 2The Nature Conservancy, Peoria, IL 61602We studied macroinvertebrate community dynamics in two restored floodplain wetlands that differ in management strategies. Big Lake is a mitigation wetland with an unmanaged connection to the Illinois River and Spunky Bottoms is an actively managed restored wetland separated from the river. We collected monthly benthic samples from shoreline and open-water habitats from March 2002 to February 2003. In Big Lake, total abundances increased from 13298±4654 ind m-2 (March) to 23926±4907 ind m-2 (December) and were higher compared to those in Spunky Bottoms, which remained relatively steady throughout the year (range = 8,991±4,844 to 9227±4997 ind m-2). Total biomass ranged from 185±139 to 3437±1200 mg DM m-2 and 320±197 to 1156±356 mg DM m-2 in Big Lake and Spunky Bottoms, respectively. Taxa richness was 2-fold higher in Spunky Bottoms than Big Lake. Oligochaetes and Chironominae dominated biomass and density in both wetlands. Some differences in community structure were observed between these two wetlands including higher densities of mayflies (Caenis sp.), damselflies, dragonflies, and caddisflies in Spunky Bottoms and higher biomass of Tanypodinae in Big Lake. Our goal is provide diversity and production data to further understand how connectivity and management decisions affect macroinvertebrate structure and function in floodplain habitats.

A GREENER SYNTHETIC ROUTE TO THE ICl2- ANION. A GENERAL CHEMISTRY

SYNTHESIS EXPERIMENT INVOLVING INTERESTING REDOX CHEMISTRY.Benjamin C. Owen* and Marc A. Klingshirn, Chemistry Program, University of Illinois at Springfield, Springfield, IL 62703Our interest lies in the development of ‘green’ laboratory experiments for undergraduate laboratories. Green chemistry can most simply be defined as environmentally benign chemistry. By applying the Principles of Green Chemistry, chemical processes can be modified with efforts to reduce the risk to both the environment and the public. This work describes a greener synthesis and the isolation of the dichloroiodate (ICl2

-) anion as an insoluble salt. The dichloroiodate anion has been found to be a useful halogenating agent in organic synthesis and a possible antiseptic. Traditionally, its synthesis utilizes corrosive acid, the direct use of harmful chlorine gas, and an inert environment. Here dilute acid is used, chlorine gas is generated in situ, and the reaction is performed under normal laboratory conditions. Our work, described here, characterizes the reaction mechanism, the isolation of the anion, and subsequent salt characterization.

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THE BACTERIAL ASSEMBLAGE AT THE AIR-WATER INTERFACE OF A FRESHWATER LAKE WITH IMPLICATIONS FOR ORGANOPHOSPHATE NUTRIENT CYCLINGPaver, Sara F.* and Michael J. Lemke. Biology Program, University of Illinois at Springfield, Springfield, Il 62703In fresh water, bacterial lysis causes the release of labile organophosphate cell components, such as cell membrane phospholipids. These organophosphates likely provide a continuously available phosphorus source in aquatic systems; however, their use has not been quantified. The objective of this study was to compare the bacterial assemblage able to use organophosphates at the air-water interface (AWI) to that in the sub-surface (SS). AWI and SS water samples (n=3) were collected from the Emiquon Preserve (Lewiston, IL). Each water sample was separated into three sub-samples: 1) unfractioned (U) and 2) bacteria separated by adhesion to n-octane into those with hydrophobic (H) and non-hydrophobic (NH) cell surfaces. 16S rDNA (338F + GC clamp and 518R) amplified from each sub-sample (i.e., U, H, NH) was separated by denaturing gradient gel electrophoresis (DGGE). DGGE revealed three bands unique to the AWI and a similarity of about 60% between H and NH sub-community profiles, with bands unique to each. Samples were plated onto modified nutrient agar (mNA) and phospholipid phosphatidyethanolamine (PE) enrichment agar. The number of culturable bacteria (CFU/ml) in the AWI averaged 36.7 x 104 on mNA and 7.2 x 104 on PE, 23 and 29 times greater, respectively, than in the SS. Bacteria able to metabolize PE were isolated from PE agar (sequencing in progress). These findings indicate that the AWI assemblage is unique from the SS, taxa in the H fraction are not found in the NH fraction, and organophosphates are a potentially substantial source of phosphorus for bacteria.

UTILIZING MOLECULAR BARCODING TECHNIQUES TO DOCUMENT THE RESTORATION OF THE EMIQUON PRESERVEKathleen Quinn* 1 , Michael Lemke1, Maria Lemke2. Leon Hinz3 and James Bonacum1

1 Biology Program, University of Illinois at Springfield, Springfield IL 62703, 2 The Nature Conservancy, Peoria, IL 61602, 3 Illinois Natural History Survey, Springfield, IL 62702A novel application of molecular biology is its use as a tool for the identification of species also known as molecular barcoding. This is meant to supplement traditional taxonomic approaches that utilize morphological characters. Taxonomic diagnoses based upon morphology utilize keys that often present difficulties for inexperienced investigators. Molecular characters on the other hand have only four unambiguous character states (G,A,T and C.) If a particular gene region combines high levels of interspecific variation with low levels of intraspecific variation, it can be used to discriminate even among closely related species. Here we report the results of an inventory of insects (Arthropoda:Hexapoda) collected at two sites, at the Emiquon preserve in September of 2006. Species were identified to level of order using a morphological key. 7 orders were collected at the recently inundated Thompson Lake and 4 orders were collected in drainage ditch sites that intersect the historical site of Flag Lake. Specimens were photodocumented and DNA samples were extracted from representatives of each taxonomic unit. A 642 BP region of the Cytochrome Oxidase subunit 1 gene, (COI) will be amplified and sequenced for each sample to serve as a molecular barcode. A list of diagnostic sites will be identified and tested to determine if they can be reliably used to identify species by comparing them with previously published sequences and confirmed identification of the specimens by

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experts. The collection and sequence database will also serve as an historical record that can be added to in future years to document the diversity present at Emiquon as its restoration proceeds.

BACTERIAL DIVERSITY AND WATER QUALITY OF ILLINOIS FLOODPLAIN LAKESMichelle Randle* 1 , Christine Hofmann* 2 , Keenan Dungey2, Michael Lemke1 Programs of Biology1 and Chemistry2, University of Illinois at Springfield, Springfield, IL 62703Bacterial communities are comprised of species, each theoretically responding to physio-chemical subtleties in the environment. The objectives were to determine if aquatic bacterioplankton community differences 1) would be associated with river connectivity, habitat, and particle association, and 2) were correlated to water quality parameters. Connected (Crane, Chain, Mantanzas) and unconnected (Long, Spring, Emiquon) lakes were sampled (n=3) along the Illinois River. Dissolved oxygen, pH, conductivity, turbidity, nutrients, chlorophyll-a, and suspended solids were measured at the top and bottom of each lake. Top and bottom water samples were filtered into particle-associated (>3.0) and non-associated fractions. DNA was extracted and 180 bp rDNA fragments were amplified by PCR. PCR products were separated on denaturing gradient gel electrophoresis (DGGE) and results were analyzed using Pearson’s Coefficient. Dendrograms showed clear separation between top and bottom samples within particle-associated and free-living communities. There were twice as many total bacteria in the connected systems (4 x 107 cells/ml). Canonical discriminate analysis revealed that unconnected lakes were more closely grouped to one another than the connected lakes based on water quality (e.g., dissolved total phosphate, particulate ammonia, turbidity, dissolved oxygen, and chlorophyll-a). Top water analysis showed similar grouping (based on dissolved oxygen, conductivity, chlorophyll-a, percent particle, particulate total phosphate, and particulate nitrogen). This work suggests that while environmental characteristics may select for similar assemblages on the landscape level (i.e., lakes within the river system), assemblage differences are likely due to within-lake factors (i.e., on particles or on water surface vs. freely suspended) and depth-dependent physicochemical conditions.

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AcknowledgementsSymposium Organizers

Lucia Vazquez (Coordinator)Michael Lemke (Officiator)

Jo Patterson & Bev Weddle (Program & Misc)Keenan Dungey (Advertising & Duplication)

Jim Bonacum (Announcements & Call for Papers)Wayne Gade (Budget & Expenses)Amy McEuen (Keynote Speaker)

Harshavarden Bapat (Room & Food Arrangements)Mary Ellen McElligott (Conference Services)

Sponsors and FacilitatorsBiology Department

Chemistry DepartmentClinical Laboratory Science Department

The Biology ClubThe Chemistry Club

Margot Duley, Dean CLASUIS Research Board

UIS Speaker’s Award CommitteeCollege of Liberal Arts and Sciences

Judges

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Oral Presentations Poster PresentationsDr. John Martin(ASP) Dr. Marc Klingshirn

(CHE)Dr. Yashanad Mhaskar (CHE) Dr. Hua

Chen(BIO) Chad Eversgerd(BIO) Jeave L. Reserva (CHE)

Benjamin C. Owen (CHE)

Special acknowledgement to student advisors, mentors and collaborators - your guidance is essential for the training of tomorrow’s scientists. Thank you.