Presenters

Presenter: Nova Austin and Ashlen Plasek

Project Adviser: Sylke Boyd (Physics)

Title: Rotary Subwoofer: An infrasound generator    

Type of Presentation:  John Q. Imholte Hall, Room #114,  4:15p.m.

Abstract:

The primary goal of this project was to design and create a novel form of an infrasound transducer and study how various design constraints affected the sound produced. This transducer is a creative form of speaker called a Rotary Subwoofer. The main idea of a rotary subwoofer is to create infrasound (low frequency sound) by basically turning a helicopter’s rotor head into a fan mount. We would then alter the pitch on all the fan blades simultaneously to make it alternate pulling air into the fan and pushing it out. Thus creating a series of wavefronts that we call soundwaves. Unlike traditional speakers the volume of the sound produced wouldn’t peter out as we made it produce lower frequencies. In fact it would get louder because of how much easier it is to change the pitch of the blades at lower frequencies. Once we create the assembly the bulk of the research would be focused on blade geometry and how it would affect the quality of the sound produced. The hypothesis is that a lower axial angular moment of inertia will increase the effective frequency range, while inversely a wider blade would create a louder sound. We wanted to explore our parameter space until we found a blade geometry that maximized both volume and pitch. 

The production of infrasound has not been well documented and its usages are seemingly untapped. We know, for example, that elephants communicate large distances with infrasound because of its low attenuation in the earth's atmosphere. Using infrasound and its attenuation through the atmosphere could be useful for cloud imaging and meteorology. 

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Presenters: Nova Austin

Project Adviser: Sylke Boyd (Physics)

Title: Data Categorization: How to train an AI  

Type of Presentation: Poster or Visual Display, Oyate Hall 5:30-7:00pm

Abstract:

Presenter: John Barber

Project Adviser: Lucas Granholm (Theatre)

Title: The Preservation of Ralph Rapson's Humanities Fine Arts Architectural Model  

Type of Presentation:  John Q. Imholte Hall, Room #114,  4:45p.m.

Abstract:

Renowned modernist architect Ralph Rapson, left an indelible mark on the University of Minnesota Morris campus through his design of the Humanities Fine Arts Building (HFA). The focus of this project is the restoration of an architectural model depicting the HFA as conceived by Rapson and associates in 1970.The goal is to refurbish the model, create a compelling exhibit, and ensure its long-term preservation.  The exhibit will feature the restored model alongside archival materials and contributions from the UMM Humanities faculty. The restoration process will involve replacing the damaged enclosure and digitizing relevant documents.

Rapson's vision for the HFA sought to integrate the building into the campus landscape while creating a dynamic and functional space By observing student's desire paths, Rapson conceived of the HFA as an 'interior street,' a long, narrow chain of buildings along an interior spine. By prioritizing the integration of the HFA with its surroundings and emphasizing functionality and accessibility, Rapson demonstrated a forward-thinking approach to campus life. 

The exhibit offers a unique opportunity to explore Rapson's innovative vision for the HFA and its broader implications for architectural practice and campus planning. By examining the development of the HFA and emphasizing the differences between Rapson’s initial vision and the final structure, the exhibit demonstrates the process that influenced the building's design. Furthermore, the exhibit cultivates an appreciation for architectural history and invites audiences to engage with Rapson’s innovative vision that left a lasting impact on the campus environment.

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Presenters: Noah Bastin and Olivia Diver

 Project Adviser: Steve Burks, Jon Anderson and Bibhu Panda (Economics)

 Title: Commercial Driver Medical Examinations and Sleep Apnea Tests: A Descriptive Exploration 

 Type of Presentation: Poster Presentation, Oyate Hall 5:30-7:00p.m.

 Abstract:

Context and Objective.  Most commercial vehicle operators must be certified medically fit to drive on public highways at least every 2 years. A 2020 Truckers & Turnover Project paper by Morris faculty and students compared commercial drivers’ medical examination (CDME) records and obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) diagnostic test results for the same drivers during the period 2005-2010 to analyze the effectiveness of the CDME in screening for OSA. Sensitivity of the CDME was 21% for drivers with moderate or worse OSA. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) required training and registration for medical examiners to improve CDME effectiveness starting in 2015. Our goal is creation of a similar dataset for the years 2018-2020 to measure the degree of improvement in screening effectiveness of the CDME for OSA that resulted.

Methods: CDME data is matched with OSA diagnostic test results data from 2018 to 2021 on 1,452 drivers. A descriptive analysis of the subjects in the data will be created, similar to Table 1 of the paper cited.

Potential Results: Descriptions of the patterns of demographics and statistics of diagnoses in the subject pool. If different from 2020 data, comparisons will be made.

Significance: The FMCSA sought to improve the accuracy of the commercial driver’s medical examination with changes in 2015. Our data is derived from the period following this change, and our analysis is a step in the process of measuring the extent of improvements in the effectiveness of the CDME in screening for OSA. 

Presenter: Bethanie Belisle

Project Adviser: Jimmy Schryver (Art History)

Title: Damnatio Memoriae: The Impact of Art Destruction on Cultural Memory in Ancient Rome 

Type of Presentation:  John Q. Imholte Hall, Room #109, 2:15 p.m.

Abstract:

Damnatio memoriae, a practice of erasing individuals from public memory in Ancient Rome, involved deliberate efforts to remove all traces of condemned figures from public view. This research project explores the impact of damnatio memoriae on preserving cultural memory in Ancient Rome through the lens of the destruction of public statues and monuments. My research delves into the complex interplay between power, politics, and artistic expression in Roman society. Through an interdisciplinary analysis of archaeological evidence, artistic representations, and historical accounts, my research sheds light on the lasting consequences of damnatio memoriae on the collective remembrance of critical figures and events in Roman history. Ultimately, this project contributes to a deeper understanding of how acts of erasure shape cultural narratives and identities. 

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Presenter: Bethanie Belisle

Project Adviser: Tim Lindberg (Political Science)

Title: Creating or Erasing History: The Causes and Mapping of Controversial Statue Removal 

Type of Presentation:  John Q. Imholte Hall, Room #109, 3:45 p.m.

Abstract:

During the global protests that followed the killing of George Floyd by Minneapolis police on May 25th, 2020, protesters vandalized and tore down statues and monuments across the world. Local governments and private organizations removed nearly a hundred Confederate Statues in 2020. Yet there were still over 700 Confederate statues and monuments in the old Confederate areas of the US at the end of 2021. With many Confederate statues still erected in public, one can wonder why some Confederate statues get torn down by protesters and governments while others remain. Through creating a comprehensive dataset from 2000 to 2023, this research maps out removed controversial statues and information surrounding these removals. In a set of case studies comparing twelve Confederate statutes, this research also explores whether high levels of conservative ideology led to statue retention and whether public prominence led to statue removal. The study of six removals and six retentions shows that removing a Confederate statue depends on the level of support for the democratic party and high public awareness of the figure represented in the statue. Retained statues are regarded as local heroes without public prominence and are located in highly conservative counties. This research emphasizes the significance of understanding the causes of controversial statue removal for comprehending systemic injustices and informing future policy discussions on controversial art and historical representation. 

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Presenter: Kianna Big Crow 

Project Adviser:  Bibhudutta Panda (Native American and Indigenous Studies)

Title: Returns to Education for Indigenous Population in the US: How Women Compared to Men?  

Type of Presentation: John Q. Imholte Hall, Room #101, 4:15 p.m.

Abstract:

Previous research finds large gaps in the labor market outcomes for the Indigenous population. Despite recent improvements, indigenous workers lag other racial groups in terms of educational attainment and earnings. This study will use the 5-year American Community Survey Data (2017-2021) to estimate earning gains (returns to education) associated with college education for Indigenous workers and examine how Indigenous workers fare compared to workers from other racial groups. The study will further examine how returns to education for Indigenous women compare to Indigenous men and other racial groups in the US. Research finds that return to education is higher for women compared to men as education not only improves skills and productivity, it also potentially reduces earning differentials attributed to other factors like gender discrimination. It will be important to examine if this observation holds for Indigenous men as well. The results of this research could be used to formulate policies to improve existing gaps in earnings and educational attainment for Indigenous populations. 

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Presenters: Kianna Big Crow

 Project Adviser: Bibhudutta Panda (Native American and Indigenous Studies)

 Title: Indigenous Educational Attainment in the US  

 Type of Presentation: Poster Presentation, Oyate Hall 5:30-7:00p.m.

 Abstract:

Despite many initiatives and educational reforms, there exists a significant gap in the educational attainment of the Indigenous population in the US. More importantly, the research examining educational attainment in the Indigenous tribal and homeland areas have been scarce due to the lack of data. This research examines the magnitude of schooling disparity for the indigenous population (25 years+) in the tribal and homeland areas using the 5-year American Community Survey Data (2017-2021). The research finds that only 17% of the indigenous population have earned a bachelor’s degree or higher in the US in contrast to 37% for White Americans. This number is even lower at 13% when we focus on 621 tribal/homeland areas. The median income in tribal/homeland areas for college educated population is $51,008 which is significantly lower when we compare it with median income in the US for the same educational group ($61,073). This project aims to empirically illuminate the educational and earning disparity that I witnessed first hand, while also providing policy implications from an Indigenous perspective. The research argues that educational reform in the form of teacher training programs on Indigenous history and cultural appropriation, incorporations of indigenous cultures, languages and traditions in schools with higher indigenous population, and creation of greater and accessible funding opportunities are essential to begin bridging this gap. 

Presenters: Nevaeh Bridge

Project Adviser: Zamzam Dini (Psychology)

Title: The loss of traditional gender roles in Native American communities: A colonial trauma 

Type of Presentation: Poster or Visual Display DIGITAL 5:30-7:00p.m.

Abstract: 

The literature review provided investigates gender roles in traditional Native American societies, the disruption by colonization, and the lasting trauma effects that have come from it. A scoping review was conducted from multiple scholarly journals to provide an understanding of Native American societies and colonization. A major finding within these journal articles was that during colonization men were put into positions of power and women were devalued (Barker, 2008). Because men were made to be seen as more powerful they started to believe it themselves and strayed away from their traditional beliefs that women were sacred, which led them to be more violent toward them and allow domestic or sexual abuse. It was also discovered that colonizers believed that the Native American belief of balance between genders portrayed their savagery so they implemented policies to enforce their own beliefs onto these societies (Jacobs, 2022). Their primary goal was to strip Native Americans of their traditions and disrupt their culture. Native Americans have since suffered from the long-lasting effects of colonization. Health disparities are common among Native American individuals and the impact of colonization plays a large role in this (Simoni & Walters, 2002). Evidence was provided to prove that ultimately colonization forced harshly gendered roles that disrupted Native American societies and negatively impacted them. Reconnecting with one's traditional culture helps restore Native American societies and serves as a protective factor against harm to their health. This is a broad understanding and further research should be conducted to determine specific impacts on specific communities.

Presenters: Hayley Brunette, Abby Doyle and Ilsa Hoaglund

Project Adviser: Danielle Bolland (Biology) 

Title: Isolation and Analysis of R130D MDH

Type of Presentation: Poster Presentation, Oyate Hall 5:30-7:00p.m.

Abstract:

Malate Dehydrogenase (MDH) is the enzyme that catalyzes the ninth step of the citric acid cycle, a regenerative step in the metabolism of glucose in which malate is converted to oxaloacetate. Conformational changes in the active loop region of MDH along with the coenzyme NAD+ drive catalysis. Previous studies suggested that mutating positively charged amino acids to negatively charged amino acids at residue 130 decreased the enzymatic activity of MDH. We hypothesized that if we change arginine 130 (positively charged amino acid) to aspartate (negatively charged amino acid), then the enzymatic activity of MDH would significantly decrease. In e. Coli cells, site-directed mutagenesis was performed to create the mutation (R130D). The mutated protein was purified using nickel affinity chromatography and confirmed by Bradford assay and SDS-PAGE gel of the protein purity. The kinetics of the mutated protein were measured and compared to the wild-type to examine the effects of the mutation. We found R130D has a lower Vmax and higher Km than wild-type MDH, suggesting that the mutant MDH protein catalyzes the reaction at a much slower rate, and the substrate oxaloacetate had a reduced binding affinity to the enzyme. Learning more about which amino acid sequences of MDH are important in its metabolic function has important implications regarding the regulation of carbohydrate metabolism, specifically the citric acid cycle. 

Presenter: Dongting Cai 

Project Adviser: Dr. Nadezhda Sotirova (Communication, Media and Rhetoric)

Title: Emojis Across Cultures: Identifying Misunderstandings in Digital Communication   

Type of Presentation:  John Q. Imholte Hall, Room #112,  4:15p.m.

Abstract:

In the digital age, emojis have transcended their original purpose to become pivotal in facilitating nuanced communication across diverse platforms. Originating in Japan in 1999, these digital icons now pervade various forms of computer-mediated interactions, often imbuing messages with non-verbal cues akin to face-to-face conversations. This study delves into the cross-cultural implications of emoji use, exploring how differences in interpretation and usage can lead to miscommunication. By focusing on emojis whose meanings significantly deviate across cultures and those whose interpretations stray from their original Unicode Consortium definitions, this research examines common instances of miscommunication. Through an online survey and using frequency (emoji classification) and semantic/text analyses, the study has gathered data on emoji usage habits and interpretations among different cultural groups, particularly between participants from the US and China. This approach not only sheds light on the nuanced role emojis play in digital communication but also seeks to enhance our understanding of the potential for miscommunication in a professional setting. Through this exploration, the project contributes to the broader discourse on digital communication, offering insights that are accessible to both experts and the general public alike.  

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Presenter: Matilyn Carl

Project Adviser:  Julie Eckerle (English)

Title: A Demon with a Halo: An Analysis of Epic War Hero Cúchulainn as a Fomoir in The Táin    

Type of Presentation: John Q. Imholte Hall, Room #112, 2:45 p.m.

Abstract:

The Táin is an Irish Epic that follows a war between two kingdoms by means of a cattle raid. In Thomas Kinsella’s translation of The Táin, readers are introduced to the epic war hero, Cúchulainn, who exhibits qualities that exceed the abilities of any other character in the epic. An example of his abilities can be seen when Cúchulainn enters a state known as a “Warp Spasm.” I make an analysis of Cúchulainn as an Irish mythological demon known as a Fomoir given his behaviors and appearance while in this state. In addition, there are also parallels between the battles fought by Cúchulainn and those fought by the Fomoiri and their overall motivations of chaos and evil that are well known in Irish mythology. After analyzing Cúchulainn as a Fomoir, an important question is raised: What is the significance of having a demon as an epic hero in Irish mythology? Colonizers used Irish culture and mythology to demonize Irish people and justify their efforts to colonize the land. Rather than viewing Cúchulainn as a support for these efforts, I go on to argue that this interpretation can be used to show that modern ideas of what a hero can be is vastly different from what a hero could be in early texts. Therefore, it is important that modern audiences make careful efforts to not impose their interpretation onto these early texts. In addition, I go on to make an argument that this interpretation was specifically omitted from The Táin due to acculturation and the psychology of group hatred. 

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Presenters: Daniel Dahmen

Project Adviser: Ted Pappenfus (Chemistry) 

Title: Engineered molecules for teaching electrochemistry in the organic chemistry curriculum

Type of Presentation: Poster Presentation, Oyate Hall 5:30-7:00p.m.

Abstract:

Although electrochemistry is important in many chemical, biochemical, and engineering-related fields, the topic is generally not taught well at the undergraduate level.  As part of a project funded by the Department of Engineering (DOE), this investigation seeks to address this issue by creating an experiment that can be replicated in organic chemistry curriculum in the future. Specifically, experiments are being designed to determine the electrochemical properties of a particular type of organic materials called indophenines, which consist of two thiophene molecules fused between two isatins. Recent studies have shown indophenines can be used in devices such as organic semiconductors and organic solar cells. With our procedure, which consists of an n-hexyl-6-bromoisatin molecule being reacted at ambient conditions with dimethoxythiophene, using sulfuric acid as a catalyst and toluene as the solvent, the reaction yields are comparable to those that are seen in the literature. The indophenines in this project are prepared using the principles of molecular engineering where molecules are designed to adopt specific orientations and/or functions. This presentation will highlight synthetic and analytical methods with an emphasis on electrochemical methods. 

Presenter: Robert Dally-Steele

Project Adviser: Barbara Burke (Communication, Media and Rhetoric)

Title: Charade and North by Northwest: growing past the auteur    

Type of Presentation:  John Q. Imholte Hall, Room #114,  4:45p.m.

Abstract:

The study of film presents a fascinating evolution of rhetorical and literary analysis, a fully articulated and unique artifact, locked within a specific time and cultural landscape. Film study then can also show the progress and development of not only the style but of a social conscience for general audiences. In comparing Alfred Hitchcock's North by Northwest (1959) and Stanley Donen’s Charade(1963), we see how an auteur's style endures while leaving room for a more feminist narrative. One characteristic that is impossible to ignore about Hitchcock's presence on set was his obsessive attitude towards his female leads, leading to their roles being more as objects and set dressing rather than fully formed characters. North by Northwest, while often characterized as one of Hitchcock's best, unmistakably carries on this trend with a rather nasty narrative of slut shaming punctuating a lighter spy thriller. Charade, on the other hand, is held as “The best Hitchcock movie Hitchcock never made”, an assertion primarily based on its aesthetic similarity to North By Northwest with overlapping casting, sound design, and tone.  While it is unmistakable the influence Hitchcock had on the film, it's also important to note its strong female protagonist and her question of whether or not to trust the mysterious man she barely knows. It approaches the same thematic question of who and when to trust in rather ridiculous scenarios, but it doesn’t resolve to be mean like North by Northwest. It is, in short, a beautiful and charming step forward. 

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Presenters: Gillian Deirdre

Project Adviser: Miriam Gieske (Biology)

Title: Effects of charcoal on Streptomyces antibiotic production in the rhizosphere of corn plants

Type of Presentation: Poster Presentation, Oyate Hall 5:30-7:00p.m.

Abstract:

Biochar has recently gained popularity in commercial horticulture to improve soil drainage and structure. Research suggests biochar-amended soil may have greater soil microbial diversity and abundance. Microbes in the soil clinging to plant roots (the rhizosphere) often form a mutually-beneficial relationship with the plant. Some common soil bacteria like the genus Streptomyces can produce antibiotics that inhibit growth of disease-causing bacteria. I investigated whether adding biochar to the soil of corn plants would affect the number of Streptomyces in the rhizosphere or the proportion of them that are inhibitory to other bacteria. I expected biochar to increase the number of Streptomyces. However, biochar can bind and inactivate chemicals such as antibiotics, so I also expected it to decrease the proportion of inhibitory Streptomyces. These results may question the use of biochar in horticulture, as this antibiotic production is key for plant health.  I grew corn seeds in either biochar-amended soil or unamended soil. I collected rhizosphere soil and cultured Streptomyces on media plates. After counting the number of Streptomyces, I overlaid the plates with media and two target bacterial isolates. I identified inhibitory Streptomyces by the presence of inhibition zones where they had prevented target growth. I found that biochar had no significant effect on the number or proportion of inhibitory Streptomyces in the rhizosphere. 

Presenters: Noah Bastin and Olivia Diver

 Project Adviser: Steve Burks, Jon Anderson and Bibhu Panda (Economics)

 Title: Commercial Driver Medical Examinations and Sleep Apnea Tests: A Descriptive Exploration 

 Type of Presentation: Poster Presentation, Oyate Hall 5:30-7:00p.m.

 Abstract:

Context and Objective.  Most commercial vehicle operators must be certified medically fit to drive on public highways at least every 2 years. A 2020 Truckers & Turnover Project paper by Morris faculty and students compared commercial drivers’ medical examination (CDME) records and obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) diagnostic test results for the same drivers during the period 2005-2010 to analyze the effectiveness of the CDME in screening for OSA. Sensitivity of the CDME was 21% for drivers with moderate or worse OSA. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) required training and registration for medical examiners to improve CDME effectiveness starting in 2015. Our goal is creation of a similar dataset for the years 2018-2020 to measure the degree of improvement in screening effectiveness of the CDME for OSA that resulted.

Methods: CDME data is matched with OSA diagnostic test results data from 2018 to 2021 on 1,452 drivers. A descriptive analysis of the subjects in the data will be created, similar to Table 1 of the paper cited.

Potential Results: Descriptions of the patterns of demographics and statistics of diagnoses in the subject pool. If different from 2020 data, comparisons will be made.

Significance: The FMCSA sought to improve the accuracy of the commercial driver’s medical examination with changes in 2015. Our data is derived from the period following this change, and our analysis is a step in the process of measuring the extent of improvements in the effectiveness of the CDME in screening for OSA. 

Presenter:  Tasha Douville

Project Adviser:  Josh Johnson (English)

Title:  Writing Psychological Disorder in Fiction

Type of Presentation: John Q. Imholte Hall, Room #114, 3:45 p.m.

Abstract:

Writing Psychological Disorder in Fiction” is an interdisciplinary project combining research in clinical psychology with English literature and creative writing. Psychological disorder, or mental illness, appears in a variety of media, but this project focuses on analyzing depictions of mental illness in fictional novellas and novels. From One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest to The Perks of Being a Wallflower, disorder in fiction takes many forms: some realistic or hopeful, some stigmatizing. In the latter instance, mental illness becomes the entirety of a character’s personality, preventing any meaningful connection between the character and the reader. This project expands upon what positive depictions of characters with mental illness can look like in stories by writing a novella featuring a character coping with Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD), characterized as a pattern of instability with interpersonal relationships and self-image. The project aims to prevent BPD from being the crux of a character, requiring conscious sensitivity to avoid contributing to an existing stigma of disorder. Engaging with creative writing (rather than a traditional academic research paper) creates a hands-on example of existing research. Rather than simply arguing how the connection between clinical psychology and creative fiction writing can be expanded upon, this project actively proves the complexity of writing psychological disorder into fiction through the writing process. 

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Presenters: Hayley Brunette, Abby Doyle and Ilsa Hoaglund

Project Adviser: Danielle Bolland (Biology) 

Title: Isolation and Analysis of R130D MDH

Type of Presentation: Poster Presentation, Oyate Hall 5:30-7:00p.m.

Abstract:

Malate Dehydrogenase (MDH) is the enzyme that catalyzes the ninth step of the citric acid cycle, a regenerative step in the metabolism of glucose in which malate is converted to oxaloacetate. Conformational changes in the active loop region of MDH along with the coenzyme NAD+ drive catalysis. Previous studies suggested that mutating positively charged amino acids to negatively charged amino acids at residue 130 decreased the enzymatic activity of MDH. We hypothesized that if we change arginine 130 (positively charged amino acid) to aspartate (negatively charged amino acid), then the enzymatic activity of MDH would significantly decrease. In e. Coli cells, site-directed mutagenesis was performed to create the mutation (R130D). The mutated protein was purified using nickel affinity chromatography and confirmed by Bradford assay and SDS-PAGE gel of the protein purity. The kinetics of the mutated protein were measured and compared to the wild-type to examine the effects of the mutation. We found R130D has a lower Vmax and higher Km than wild-type MDH, suggesting that the mutant MDH protein catalyzes the reaction at a much slower rate, and the substrate oxaloacetate had a reduced binding affinity to the enzyme. Learning more about which amino acid sequences of MDH are important in its metabolic function has important implications regarding the regulation of carbohydrate metabolism, specifically the citric acid cycle. 

Presenter: Mason Eischens

Project Adviser:  Lisa Bevevino (French)

Title: Anime and Manga, are they French?   

Type of Presentation: John Q. Imholte Hall, Room #112, 2:15 p.m.

Abstract:

For my senior seminar in French, I’m writing a cultural-literary analysis responding to the recent uproar amongst right-wing French politicians against the massive popularity of manga and anime, media they have labeled as not “truly cultural”, among young people. First, starting from a historical perspective, I will argue that there was a significant French influence on the creation and development of anime and manga. Next, I will compare the work of French philosopher Jean-Paul Sartre to the 90s Japanese television show Neon Genesis Evangelion and unearth the universal themes of existentialism, loneliness, and despair. Finally, I will reflect on the anime’s reception in France and what it means for the future of French culture.

                 Although there has been some academic writing on the topic of existentialist themes in Neon Genesis Evangelion, such as Gabriel Tsang in 2016 or Stephanie Thomas in 2015, no one has yet written on their implications for a French audience. I hope to expand the discussion beyond analysis and reckon with the ways in which different cultures decide what constitutes art.

                 As a thesis, I propose the following: not only are Neon Genesis and other visual narratives presented in anime and manga form “truly cultural”, but they belong to the cultural patrimony of France itself.

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Presenter: T Flesner

Project Adviser: Lucas Granholm (Theatre)

Title: Dehumanizing Individuals: Disability's Represented in Theatre   

Type of Presentation:  John Q. Imholte Hall, Room #114,  3:15p.m.

Abstract:

In the summer of 2023, research was conducted on how disabilities are portrayed in theater. This research is specified in the literature part, for example: how the character is written, how people treat them, how the disability is portrayed, and the overall emotion towards the disability/disabled character. Within this conduction, fourteen plays were used. Out of these plays: Forty-three percent (43%) beastify the disabled character. Fifty percent (50%) infantilize the disabled character. Twenty-nine percent (29%) objectify the disabled character. Fifty percent (50%) of the plays were overall negative in regards to the character with a disability. Fifty percent (50%) of the plays resulted in the disabled characters' death. Seventy-one percent (71%) used slurs and derogatory names against the character with a disability. In conclusion, disabilities are portrayed in a negative manner. This typically results in some form of discrimination, violence, and or death. The reason why this research is important is to bring light on this situation, the situation being that the theater world has a tendency to depict those with disabilities in a negative way and very little story’s show disabilities being a positive thing. This can be impressionable to audiences as they only typically see disabilities being portrayed in a negative light rather than a positive one. If left unchecked it could allow people to feel as though disabilities are only these negative things that cause problems and nothing else. Not only damaging those who have disabilities, but also potentially subjecting them to unfair biases. 

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 Presenters: Makenna Gerold, Kim Peters, & Ayla Wicklow 

 Project Adviser: Rachel Johnson (Biology)

 Title: The Influence of Monarda fistulosa Extract on Macrophage Functions

 Type of Presentation: Poster Presentation, Oyate Hall 5:30-7:00p.m.

 Abstract:

Monarda fistulosa (wild bergamot) has a history of being used in Native American cultures for its antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties. M. fistulosa contains rosmarinic acid and caffeic acid as some of its major components, which have both been shown to be effective anti-inflammatory agents (Rocha et al., 2015; Spagnol et al., 2019). This is an important area of study due to the concerning side effects of modern synthetic anti-inflammatory drugs, which can lead to stomach ulcers. The goal of this study was to determine if M. fistulosa has significant anti-inflammatory properties. RAW 246 mouse macrophage cells were cultured and used as model cells. Macrophage cells were chosen for this study because they are known to produce cytokines which can contribute to inflammation. A co-culture was performed to assess cell viability using an MTT assay to determine the proliferation of mouse macrophage cells under different concentrations of plant extract. The results of this assay demonstrated that the cells survived after exposure to the M. fistulosa extract. Multiple ELISAs were performed to determine how M. fistulosa affects production of IL-6 and TNFɑ cytokines in mouse macrophage cells. These findings help support the overall hypothesis that M. fistulosa has anti-inflammatory properties and verifies the validity of the usage of wild bergamot in native medicines. 

Presenters: Benjamin Giese

Project Adviser: Stuart Winikoff (Chemistry) 

Title: Mechanistic Study of the Magnesium Catalyzed Evans anti-Aldol Reaction

Type of Presentation: Poster Presentation, Oyate Hall 5:30-7:00p.m.

Abstract:

Aldol reactions are commonly used in pharmaceutical practices as they allow the stereoselective generation of new carbon-carbon bonds. This project is interested in Evans aldol reactions, which make use of oxazolidinone ketones and can generate two different products (syn- and anti-). The mechanisms of catalysis that produce the syn-aldols have been extensively studied and the reactions widely used in pharmaceutical practices. In contrast, the Evans anti-aldol reaction has been shown to work in the presence of magnesium based Lewis Acid catalysts, but has been poorly studied and little used due to its temperamental nature. This project focuses on the determination of the reaction mechanism of the anti-Evans aldol reaction with magnesium chloride catalysts of varying coordination around the magnesium cation and the impact of the presence of chloride counterions in THF solvent. The mechanism and product distribution was analyzed through DFT calculations. The pathway involving dimerization around a bare magnesium ion was used as a benchmark comparison. Our research shows that the effectiveness of this catalyst is dictated by maintaining a single chloride ion in the coordination sphere, explaining the experimental difficulty in utilizing this catalyst on the industrial scale. 

Presenter: Marshall O'Meara and Jack Golla

Project Adviser: Barbara Burke (Communications Media and Rhetoric)

Title: Feature Filmmaking: Synthium      

Type of Presentation:  John Q. Imholte Hall, Room #109,  4:15 p.m.

Abstract:

Filmmaking is the consummate form of art, the summit and summation of all previous modes of expression, per the works of Eisenstein. Our creative, scholarly project is an original feature-length film, with a working title Synthium. Synthium was made in response to the European spiritual journey films of the 1970s, specifically Andrei Tarkovsky’s Stalker and Werner Herzog’s Aguirre, Der Zorn Gottes. Stalker is a specific reference for the film, as it is a science-fiction film which focuses on the psychology and morality of its characters; Synthium also focuses on the nature of memory and identity. Many audiovisual cues in the film are directly inspired by Stalker, as is the use of editing techniques from the Soviet film tradition to create intellectual montage for the audience. Furthermore, as we find, film is the best medium for this system of inquiry, for it can be argued that memory is primarily visual. As a student project, the production of a feature-length film is very involved, with the creation of an original script, set, props, costumes, and visual effects, along with the management of actors’ time and the budgeting of resources all needing to be delegated to volunteer students who help us realize our artistic vision. The completed film will be around 90 minutes in length, and given the 10-to-1 rule of filmmaking, which states that for each minute of film in the finished project, ten minutes of film must be shot, this requires 900 minutes of recorded footage, requiring editing, audio mixing and effects; along with other aspects of the project. This collaborative project involves students working hundreds of hours (cumulatively) to bring you a finished film, which asks you to ponder deeper questions about memory and reality. 

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Presenters: Raven Sevilleja and Kennedy Hill

Project Adviser: Kerry Michael (Psychology) 

Title: Effect of varying types of background music on memory recall 

Type of Presentation: Poster Presentation, Oyate Hall 5:30-7:00p.m.

Abstract:

Music is used as background noise while completing many tasks, such as studying. It is important to know whether or not having music in the background has an effect on the quality of memory recall. Bell et al. (2023) found that instrumental music inhibited participants' ability to perform a working memory task. This idea was supported by research findings that stated vocal and instrumental music disrupted short-term memory, with vocal music being more disruptive (Salamé & Baddeley, 1989). These conclusions found regarding the effects of vocal and instrumental music provide the basis for our own hypothesis and study design. Our study is a between-subjects design with the independent variable being three levels of music and the dependent variable as the number of words accurately recalled from a list of 15 words. Participants will be randomly assigned to one of the three levels of music: vocal music, instrumental music, and silence (control). We expect that the vocal music group will recall significantly fewer words than the instrumental music group. The control group will recall the greatest number of words in comparison to both the vocal and instrumental music groups.  Understanding the effect of vocal and instrumental music, as well as silence, on recall may provide insight on how to make study sessions more effective, possibly leading to an improved learning mindset and academic performance.  

Presenters: Hayley Brunette, Abby Doyle and Ilsa Hoaglund

Project Adviser: Danielle Bolland (Biology) 

Title: Isolation and Analysis of R130D MDH

Type of Presentation: Poster Presentation, Oyate Hall 5:30-7:00p.m.

Abstract:

Malate Dehydrogenase (MDH) is the enzyme that catalyzes the ninth step of the citric acid cycle, a regenerative step in the metabolism of glucose in which malate is converted to oxaloacetate. Conformational changes in the active loop region of MDH along with the coenzyme NAD+ drive catalysis. Previous studies suggested that mutating positively charged amino acids to negatively charged amino acids at residue 130 decreased the enzymatic activity of MDH. We hypothesized that if we change arginine 130 (positively charged amino acid) to aspartate (negatively charged amino acid), then the enzymatic activity of MDH would significantly decrease. In e. Coli cells, site-directed mutagenesis was performed to create the mutation (R130D). The mutated protein was purified using nickel affinity chromatography and confirmed by Bradford assay and SDS-PAGE gel of the protein purity. The kinetics of the mutated protein were measured and compared to the wild-type to examine the effects of the mutation. We found R130D has a lower Vmax and higher Km than wild-type MDH, suggesting that the mutant MDH protein catalyzes the reaction at a much slower rate, and the substrate oxaloacetate had a reduced binding affinity to the enzyme. Learning more about which amino acid sequences of MDH are important in its metabolic function has important implications regarding the regulation of carbohydrate metabolism, specifically the citric acid cycle. 

Presenters: Yuechu Hu

Project Adviser: Engin Sungur (Mathematics) 

Title: The relationship between fatalities in police violence and their identifying characteristics: age, gender, race, and region

Type of Presentation: Poster Presentation, Oyate Hall 5:30-7:00p.m.

 Abstract:

Police violence has always been a topic of concern. The George Floyd encounter in 2020 led to a renewed level of concern about police violence across the United States, with more and more people focusing on police violence and perceived racism in police law enforcement (AP News, 2022). According to the Police Brutality Center (2023), the United States has more deaths during police law enforcement than other high-income democracies, and they also found that Black Americans were more likely to be killed by police than whites. Therefore, we intend to analyze Fatal Encounters data, which documents non-police deaths that occur in the presence of the police in the United States. By exploring these data, we hope to examine whether U.S. police were killing people with specific identifying characteristics (e.g., gender, age, race, and region) during violent law enforcement, as well as to test for associations that exist between the identifying characteristics of fatalities and their cause of death. First, we will utilize descriptive statistics to determine the distribution pattern by showing the distribution of variables through bar graphs, box plots, and tables. Then, we will apply various statistical methods, such as Classification and Regression Trees and ARIMA, and construct the multinomial logistic regression model. We found that victims in police violence cases have a higher risk of being killed by Gunshot/Other/Vehicle than asphyxiated/restrained. The older the victims, the more likely they are to die during police violence enforcement. We need further analysis to explore the relationship between the cause of death and race.  

Presenter: Michelle Johnson

Project Adviser: Cristina Ortiz (Sociology)

Title: "THIS IS HOW THE WEST ENDS”: A content analysis of conservative YouTubers notions of Western Excellence

Type of Presentation:  John Q. Imholte Hall, Room #112, 3:15 p.m.

Abstract:

In 2023, YouTube was one of the most used social media platforms in the United States alone. While existing scholarship (Finlayson 2022) has observed linkages between right-wing social media and distrust in institutions of government, family, and others, I seek to understand how conservatives use YouTube as a means by which to teach their audience racialized, gendered, and nationalistic ideas about the Western hegemonic order. To examine this issue, I conducted an in-depth qualitative content analysis of three key conservative content creators: Ben Shapiro, Matt Walsh, and Michael Knowles. Two videos were chosen within each creator's profile using keyword searches such as “Anti White” and “DEI”. Preference was given to videos published within the last 6 months and for videos more than 5 minutes and less than 60 minutes. Total watch time amounted to 139 minutes. I found that these creators most commonly suggest that whiteness, masculinity, and Western society as we know it are under attack. The culprit of these attacks in their point of view are efforts that promote diversity, equity, and inclusion in the workplace, schools, and other institutions. By utilizing a “draw your own conclusions” framework, conservative creators can both distance themselves from their ideological teaching and create a community with which followers of this content can connect with. Ben Shapiro, Matt Walsh, and Michael Knowles have gained, maintained, and grown their following on the basis of this shared sense of community that promotes extremely violent, racialized, gendered, and nationalistic ideas. 

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Presenters: Adrienne Kanihan

Project Adviser: Jennifer Goodnough (Chemistry) 

Title: NMR Analysis of the Effects of Salts on Hydrogen Bonding in Small Molecules

Type of Presentation: Poster Presentation, Oyate Hall 5:30-7:00p.m.

Abstract:

This research aims to study the effects of sodium and calcium salts on hydrogen bonding in water, methanol, and acetic acid by characterizing the solutions with Nuclear Magnetic Resonance Spectroscopy (NMR). The structures of liquids are difficult to obtain compared to solids and gases, so using NMR for this research is relatively novel. NMR data can be useful in clarifying theoretical calculations of properties like molecular relaxation times and bond strength. Hydrogen bonding is a crucial part of larger molecules that interact with salts, like DNA, and substances like water and DNA rarely exist in their pure form. A better understanding of the behavior and mobility of hydrogen-bonds is useful to understand biological systems. Findings from this study show that different types and concentrations of salts, as well as different temperatures of the solutions, have an effect on the structure of the hydrogen bonds observed via changes in shielding of the proton or sodium ion. In all cases, the proton NMR showed changes in the OH peak chemical shift relative to a sodium trimethylsilylpropanesulfonate (DSS) standard indicating changes in the hydrogen bonding with changes in salt identity and salt concentration.  Increases in salt concentration and temperature led to a decrease in hydrogen bond strength overall. To continue this research, low temperatures should be tested, as well as different types of salts, like strontium or beryllium based ones, to investigate how different ion properties affect hydrogen bond strength. This research is relevant because it allows for advancements in the fields of biochemistry and physical chemistry, where a nuanced understanding of movement and structure is needed. 

Presenters: Emily Kolstoe and Maddie Schneider

Project Adviser: Kerry Michael (Psychology)

Title: Exploring Fandom: Examining the Psychological Impact of Listening to Music 

Type of Presentation: Poster or Visual Display, Oyate Hall 5:30-7:00pm

Abstract:

Our study investigates the psychological impacts of music on moods. Specifically, focusing on how mood changes when listening to songs by the same artist with differing emotional tones. Music has been studied as a tool for mood regulation. This phenomenon has been studied in multiple areas, including psychological and physiological impacts, neuroscience, and musicology. Additionally, the role of fandom membership (the act of being a fan of something or someone) is explored, analyzing how mood variations contrast between individuals within and outside the artist’s fandom. This project focuses on Taylor Swift and her fans. Participants listened to two songs back to back, one up-tempo and the other slow-tempo, focusing on the lyrics. Their mood was measured through self-report surveys using the Oxford Happiness Scale before and after each song. Heart rate was measured at the same time during the listening session. Following the listening session, participants

completed a survey with 6 questions pertaining to their involvement with Swift measuring if they are a fan. We hypothesized that members of the Taylor Swift fandom would experience larger shifts on the happiness scale reports and heart rate changes compared to those who are not. The results of our experiment indicate that the larger shifts did occur. Our research contributes to the understanding that fandom can be essential in addition to music for regulating mood. Therefore, highlighting the significance of music, fandom, and emotional encounters demonstrates the potential for music to serve as a potent tool for regulating mood. 

Presenters: Madelyn Schoenberger and Kira McCallum

Project Adviser: Miriam Gieske (Biology)

Title: Short-term nitrogen fertilizer application and pH modification do not affect Streptomyces antibiotic production in oat rhizosphere

Type of Presentation: Poster or Visual Display, Oyate Hall 5:30-7:00p.m.

Abstract:

Soil bacteria in the genus Streptomyces live symbiotically with plant roots and can produce antibiotics that protect plants from disease-causing soil bacteria and fungi. Investigating the conditions for optimal Streptomyces antibiotic production in plant root zone soil supports development of organic pest control methods for sustainable agriculture.  Long-term nitrogen fertilizer application acidifies soil and reduces Streptomyces antibiotic production. To investigate whether Streptomyces are affected by short-term nitrogen fertilization and soil acidification, we applied eight different nitrogen fertilizer and pH treatments to oat seedlings grown in the lab. After six weeks’ growth, we collected soil from all eight treatments. Besides fertilizer and pH effects, previous studies suggest antibiotic production in other bacteria is greater in root zone (rhizosphere) soil than non-root zone (bulk) soil. To investigate whether a similar effect exists for Streptomyces, we collected rhizosphere and bulk soil from the oat pots and from a corn field. We isolated Streptomyces from all soil samples and measured Streptomyces abundance and antibiotic production. In pots, we found no difference in Streptomyces abundance or antibiotic production between fertilizer and pH treatments or between rhizosphere and bulk soil. Field samples showed no difference in Streptomyces antibiotic production between rhizosphere and bulk soil, though Streptomyces abundance was higher in rhizosphere soil. Our findings suggest that while long-term nitrogen fertilizer application and soil acidification impact Streptomyces activity, short-term effects are negligible. While we found no rhizosphere effect on Streptomyces antibiotic production, more samples are needed to confirm this finding.

Presenter: Gabrielle Meyers 

Project Adviser: Jon Anderson (Statistics)

Title: The Path to Justice: An Analysis of Court Case Duration in Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault Cases in Three Minnesota Counties  

Type of Presentation:  John Q. Imholte Hall, Room #101, 2:15 p.m.

Abstract:

Slow court case processing is a significant concern, particularly in regard to their adverse implications for survivors of serious crimes such as domestic abuse and sexual assault. This study investigates a number of factors that may influence the duration of court case proceedings using court records from three Minnesota counties. Focusing on cases of domestic violence, sexual assault, kidnapping, harassment, stalking, and various other sex crimes, we employ survival analysis methods to explore the effects of various factors on the duration of court case processing. Our analysis considers the effects of factors such as type of crime, form of legal representation, judge, and various defendant characteristics. Our goal is to identify major factors that contribute to delays in court proceedings, providing helpful insight for advocacy groups and crime victims about what they can expect during trial. We find significant differences in completion durations between counties and between crimes charged. However, when we adjust for differences between judges such as the number and complexity of cases assigned to them, there is no evidence of county differences. 

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Presenter: Thomas Nali

Project Adviser: Nathan Froebe (Music)

Title: Four Left Feet

Type of Presentation:  John Q. Imholte Hall, Room #109, 4:45 p.m.

Abstract:

A reimagined soundtrack for a vintage appliance advertisement, Thomas D. Nali III’s Four Left Feet for flute, oboe, and percussion, exemplifies an exploration of scoring new music for live performance to a pre-existing video advertisement. The black-and-white video features a couple dancing around a variety of kitchen appliances. The music mirrors the advertisement’s off-kilter choreography, strained interaction, and awkward comic delivery. It was composed without reference to the video’s original audio in order to occlude its influence. Double motives, ornamentation, contrasting dynamics, and multi-metric rhythmic elements are explored. Figures in the flute and oboe are synchronized with the dancers, and the percussion highlights scene changes, expressions, and comic effects. Musical phrasing is cleverly used in multiple ways, including subverted resolutions. The finality of the ending swiftly and skillfully restores the imbalance temporarily implied by the penultimate phrase. Meticulous “beats per minute” calculations created synchronization when combining the live performance with the video. Four Left Feet embraces experimentation, exploring post-production trends of manipulation, appropriation, parody, or reimagining of ready-made source material, while providing new/alternate discourses. 

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Presenter: Shai Olson

Project Adviser:  Amanda Alexander (English)

Title: Transphobia in the Mentally Ill Slasher  

Type of Presentation: John Q. Imholte Hall, Room #114, 2:45 p.m.

Abstract:

My research analyzes transgender misrepresentation in horror movie serial killers, the harmful characterization of queer struggle, and the dehumanization of transgender people as a whole through the “mentally ill slasher.” I examine two horror films, Silence of the Lambs (1991) and Psycho (1960), and deconstruct their antagonists. I provide a nuanced look at the films, re-contextualize their messaging and ideology surrounding trans people, and break down the intense, but not necessarily obvious, transphobia of these media pieces. I connect my findings to other queer scholarly works to draw new conclusions. I argue that these films reinforce transphobic ideas through their lack of portrayal of non-murderous trans individuals, and because of the symbolic motivations of the killers present.

Furthermore, my paper compares the respective films and their unique attempts at representation and serration of trans identity with modern-day political movements. Rhetoric seen in these films is reused in the current age by far-right activists who wish to delegitimize transgender individuals. Analyzing the rhetoric of these films, and a deconstruction of this rhetoric allows readers to not only have a better grasp on the original films and their messaging, but contemporary political strategies around queer and trans civil rights. This presentation reflects part of an in-progress larger research project covering more in-depth historical information on the respective films and a more detailed analysis of the figures and ideas that led to their creation. 

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Presenter: Marshall O'Meara and Jack Golla

Project Adviser: Barbara Burke (Communications Media and Rhetoric)

Title: Feature Filmmaking: Synthium      

Type of Presentation:  John Q. Imholte Hall, Room #109,  4:15 p.m.

Abstract:

Filmmaking is the consummate form of art, the summit and summation of all previous modes of expression, per the works of Eisenstein. Our creative, scholarly project is an original feature-length film, with a working title Synthium. Synthium was made in response to the European spiritual journey films of the 1970s, specifically Andrei Tarkovsky’s Stalker and Werner Herzog’s Aguirre, Der Zorn Gottes. Stalker is a specific reference for the film, as it is a science-fiction film which focuses on the psychology and morality of its characters; Synthium also focuses on the nature of memory and identity. Many audiovisual cues in the film are directly inspired by Stalker, as is the use of editing techniques from the Soviet film tradition to create intellectual montage for the audience. Furthermore, as we find, film is the best medium for this system of inquiry, for it can be argued that memory is primarily visual. As a student project, the production of a feature-length film is very involved, with the creation of an original script, set, props, costumes, and visual effects, along with the management of actors’ time and the budgeting of resources all needing to be delegated to volunteer students who help us realize our artistic vision. The completed film will be around 90 minutes in length, and given the 10-to-1 rule of filmmaking, which states that for each minute of film in the finished project, ten minutes of film must be shot, this requires 900 minutes of recorded footage, requiring editing, audio mixing and effects; along with other aspects of the project. This collaborative project involves students working hundreds of hours (cumulatively) to bring you a finished film, which asks you to ponder deeper questions about memory and reality. 

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Presenter: Chenfei Peng  

Project Adviser: Nicholas McPhee (Computer Science)

Title: Enhancing Evolutionary Computation: Optimizing Phylogeny-Informed Fitness Estimation Through Strategic Modifications   

Type of Presentation:  John Q. Imholte Hall, Room #109, 2:45 p.m.

Abstract:

In evolutionary computation, programs are developed using evolution's basic principles, such as selection, mutation, and recombination, to iteratively improve problem solutions towards optimal outcomes in a reasonable amount of time. To save time and be more efficient, we are currently exploring a modified version of phylogeny-informed fitness estimation. The original version evaluates each individual program on a subset of the training cases and estimates the performance everywhere else according to its parent’s performance. Our approach involves comprehensive evaluation of promising programs across all training cases, increasing computational investment where the sub-sampled results indicated potential gains. This method led to our modified algorithms finding solutions in fewer generations, but at the cost of increased computation time. One question is how to determine whether a solution is promising enough to warrant this additional evaluation. To address this, we used a threshold-k, requiring that a child should be better than its parent in at least k training cases. Analysis of 30 trials on a simple test problem showed threshold-3 enhanced time efficiency, while threshold-1 minimized the number of generations needed for success. A further 100-run analysis with much lower generation limits revealed that threshold-1 secured the highest success rates. To sum up, we did a lot of interesting experiments using a modified version of phylogeny-informed fitness estimation, including comparisons between modified version and original one, 30 runs and 100 runs, complex regression problem and fuel-cost problem. 

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 Presenters: Makenna Gerold, Kim Peters, & Ayla Wicklow 

 Project Adviser: Rachel Johnson (Biology)

 Title: The Influence of Monarda fistulosa Extract on Macrophage Functions

 Type of Presentation: Poster Presentation, Oyate Hall 5:30-7:00p.m.

 Abstract:

Monarda fistulosa (wild bergamot) has a history of being used in Native American cultures for its antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties. M. fistulosa contains rosmarinic acid and caffeic acid as some of its major components, which have both been shown to be effective anti-inflammatory agents (Rocha et al., 2015; Spagnol et al., 2019). This is an important area of study due to the concerning side effects of modern synthetic anti-inflammatory drugs, which can lead to stomach ulcers. The goal of this study was to determine if M. fistulosa has significant anti-inflammatory properties. RAW 246 mouse macrophage cells were cultured and used as model cells. Macrophage cells were chosen for this study because they are known to produce cytokines which can contribute to inflammation. A co-culture was performed to assess cell viability using an MTT assay to determine the proliferation of mouse macrophage cells under different concentrations of plant extract. The results of this assay demonstrated that the cells survived after exposure to the M. fistulosa extract. Multiple ELISAs were performed to determine how M. fistulosa affects production of IL-6 and TNFɑ cytokines in mouse macrophage cells. These findings help support the overall hypothesis that M. fistulosa has anti-inflammatory properties and verifies the validity of the usage of wild bergamot in native medicines. 

Presenters: Sierra Pickett

Project Adviser: Danielle Bolland (Biology) 

Title: Investigating the Role of DEK Palmitoylation in Ovarian Cancer

Type of Presentation: Poster Presentation, Oyate Hall 5:30-7:00p.m.

Abstract:

Ovarian cancer is a deadly disease that affects women. Although ovarian cancer responds to initial chemotherapy, the majority of patients develop recurrent disease that becomes resistant to treatment. Thus, new treatment strategies are necessary to improve outcomes for ovarian cancer patients. In addition, this disease is often associated with mutated DNA repair proteins, including the protein DEK. DEK is a DNA repair protein that is important for repairing double stranded breaks in DNA. It has been shown to be overexpressed in ovarian cancer resulting in increased survival and cell growth. DEK is predicted to be modified by the addition of a lipid. This is known as palmitoylation. It is unknown how palmitoylation regulates DNA repair proteins. Therefore, our lab is investigating the role of palmitoylation of DEK in ovarian cancer. To study the role of palmitoylation we used the ovarian cancer cell line OVCAR8. Cells were treated with 2-bromopalmitate (2BP), a chemical inhibitor of palmitoylation and assessed for cell viability, protein expression of DEK and colony formation of cancer cells.Treatment with 2BP significantly decreased cell viability and colony formation. Inhibition of palmitoylation also decreased DEK expression, suggesting palmitoylation plays a role in DEK protein stability. In addition, increased DNA damage was only observed with the co-treatment of 2BP and the chemotherapy cisplatin, suggesting inhibition of palmitoylation tricks cancer cells into dying more effectively. Together these results suggest palmitoylation plays a role in ovarian cancer cell viability and growth and may be an effective protein to target for cancer treatment. 

Presenter: Nova Austin and Ashlen Plasek

Project Adviser: Sylke Boyd (Physics)

Title: Rotary Subwoofer: An infrasound generator    

Type of Presentation:  John Q. Imholte Hall, Room #114,  4:15p.m.

Abstract:

The primary goal of this project was to design and create a novel form of an infrasound transducer and study how various design constraints affected the sound produced. This transducer is a creative form of speaker called a Rotary Subwoofer. The main idea of a rotary subwoofer is to create infrasound (low frequency sound) by basically turning a helicopter’s rotor head into a fan mount. We would then alter the pitch on all the fan blades simultaneously to make it alternate pulling air into the fan and pushing it out. Thus creating a series of wavefronts that we call soundwaves. Unlike traditional speakers the volume of the sound produced wouldn’t peter out as we made it produce lower frequencies. In fact it would get louder because of how much easier it is to change the pitch of the blades at lower frequencies. Once we create the assembly the bulk of the research would be focused on blade geometry and how it would affect the quality of the sound produced. The hypothesis is that a lower axial angular moment of inertia will increase the effective frequency range, while inversely a wider blade would create a louder sound. We wanted to explore our parameter space until we found a blade geometry that maximized both volume and pitch. 

The production of infrasound has not been well documented and its usages are seemingly untapped. We know, for example, that elephants communicate large distances with infrasound because of its low attenuation in the earth's atmosphere. Using infrasound and its attenuation through the atmosphere could be useful for cloud imaging and meteorology. 

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Presenters: Liam Poitra

Project Adviser: Miriam Gieske (Biology) 

Title: Spring burns and its effect on Vernal Forbs

Type of Presentation: Poster Presentation, Oyate Hall 5:30-7:00p.m.

Abstract:

Historically, The prairie region was a fire-adapted ecosystem, shaped both by natural factors like lightning and human intervention, particularly by Native Americans. Current fire management strategies primarily use spring burns to promote warm-season native grasses and stop cool-season invasive grasses like reed canary grass and smooth brome. This burn timing is very different from indigenous and lightning-triggered fires which would be most common in the mid-summer. My research investigates the impact of spring burns on early spring plants, especially their flowering periods, focusing on flowering patterns and community composition which remain understudied. I will test 3 hypotheses: 1 Regular spring burning would coincide with early-season native plants’ flowering period, reducing their population numbers; 2 Regular spring burning would favor spring flowering species that tolerate a disrupted bloom season better; 3 Regular spring burning would select for later blooming individuals of a population, adjusting the flowering schedule of the population. The research plan is to collect transects of data throughout several managed prairies near Hoffman, MN with differing burn histories before the burn season. Data will be taken on both the number of individuals of several spring flowering species as well as flowering stage in order to test the hypotheses. The broader impact of this study will be to provide better data to conservation groups concerned with preserving America's least protected ecosystem, the prairie, and all of its biodiversity.

Presenter: Abbie Rehbein 

Project Adviser: Rebecca Simmons (Biology)

Title: Sharing is Caring: Pollinating Flies Contain Similar Gut Microbiota as Bees in the Northern Plains   

Type of Presentation:  John Q. Imholte Hall, Room #109,  3:15p.m.

Abstract:

The Northern Plains of the United States is an agriculturally rich region containing a favorable environment for pollinators. Among the orders of insects, Diptera (flies) and Hymenoptera (bees, wasps, and ants) contain families of pollinators essential for maintaining native plant species and crops. Syrphidae is one such family of flies that are exceptional pollinators. Unlike their hymenopteran look-alikes, Syrphidae have not been extensively researched in terms of their gut microbial communities. With dipterans possessing effective pollinating capabilities and because they overlap with native and non-native hymenopteran pollinator species, understanding their gut bacterial composition is essential in protecting the health of native pollinator communities. In this study, syrphids and hymenopterans were collected, and their guts were dissected to allow for DNA extraction. Bacterial symbionts were identified through Illumina sequencing. We found that hymenopteran and syrphid pollinators often shared strains of bacterial species, indicating that these pollinators overlapped in the natural environment. Flies also had higher levels of alpha diversity in their microbial communities compared with bee pollinators. Pinpointing symbionts will aid in further determining a baseline bacterial community within Syrphidae, while serving as a comparison to other pollinator gut microbiomes. Moreover, understanding model gut bacterial communities is essential to monitor the health of hoverfly populations in rapidly changing environments.

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Presenters: Emily Kolstoe and Maddie Schneider

Project Adviser: Kerry Michael (Psychology)

Title: Exploring Fandom: Examining the Psychological Impact of Listening to Music 

Type of Presentation: Poster or Visual Display, Oyate Hall 5:30-7:00pm

Abstract:

Our study investigates the psychological impacts of music on moods. Specifically, focusing on how mood changes when listening to songs by the same artist with differing emotional tones. Music has been studied as a tool for mood regulation. This phenomenon has been studied in multiple areas, including psychological and physiological impacts, neuroscience, and musicology. Additionally, the role of fandom membership (the act of being a fan of something or someone) is explored, analyzing how mood variations contrast between individuals within and outside the artist’s fandom. This project focuses on Taylor Swift and her fans. Participants listened to two songs back to back, one up-tempo and the other slow-tempo, focusing on the lyrics. Their mood was measured through self-report surveys using the Oxford Happiness Scale before and after each song. Heart rate was measured at the same time during the listening session. Following the listening session, participants

completed a survey with 6 questions pertaining to their involvement with Swift measuring if they are a fan. We hypothesized that members of the Taylor Swift fandom would experience larger shifts on the happiness scale reports and heart rate changes compared to those who are not. The results of our experiment indicate that the larger shifts did occur. Our research contributes to the understanding that fandom can be essential in addition to music for regulating mood. Therefore, highlighting the significance of music, fandom, and emotional encounters demonstrates the potential for music to serve as a potent tool for regulating mood. 

Presenters: Madelyn Schoenberger

Project Adviser: Miriam Gieske (Biology)

Title: Commercial mycorrhizal inoculation of non-sterile field soil does not enhance root colonization or reduce nitrate leaching 

Type of Presentation: Poster or Visual Display, Oyate Hall 5:30-7:00p.m.

Abstract:

Crops require nitrogen to grow. However, nitrate, a form of plant-available nitrogen, can easily be washed out of soil by rainwater and can pollute freshwater. This nitrate leaching also necessitates additional nitrogen fertilization of agricultural fields to support crop growth, which wastes money and resources. Mycorrhizal fungi form a mutually beneficial symbiosis with most terrestrial plants in which the fungus helps plants take up nutrients from the soil and receives plant sugars in return. This symbiosis may also help prevent nitrogen pollution.

To test whether commercial mycorrhizal inoculation of field soil reduces nitrate leaching, corn plants were grown in pots of non-sterilized field soil mixed with sand. Half of the pots were inoculated with a commercial mycorrhizal inoculant while the other half received no inoculation. After seven weeks’ growth, each pot was fertilized with urea, a commonly-used nitrogen fertilizer which is converted to nitrate by soil microbes. Two weeks after fertilization, corn plants were harvested, dried, and weighed. Nitrate remaining in the soil was leached out by flooding with water, and leachate from the soil was collected. Leachate samples were sent to Agvise Laboratories in Benson, MN for water nitrate analysis. Roots were collected and analyzed for mycorrhizal colonization. 

Mycorrhizal inoculation did not affect nitrate leaching, biomass, or root colonization. These results suggest that commercial inoculation likely is not necessary in well-managed field soils which are already colonized by mycorrhizal fungi, though it may be useful where soil has been historically mismanaged. 

Presenters: Madelyn Schoenberger and Kira McCallum

Project Adviser: Miriam Gieske (Biology)

Title: Short-term nitrogen fertilizer application and pH modification do not affect Streptomyces antibiotic production in oat rhizosphere

Type of Presentation: Poster or Visual Display, Oyate Hall 5:30-7:00p.m.

Abstract:

Soil bacteria in the genus Streptomyces live symbiotically with plant roots and can produce antibiotics that protect plants from disease-causing soil bacteria and fungi. Investigating the conditions for optimal Streptomyces antibiotic production in plant root zone soil supports development of organic pest control methods for sustainable agriculture.  Long-term nitrogen fertilizer application acidifies soil and reduces Streptomyces antibiotic production. To investigate whether Streptomyces are affected by short-term nitrogen fertilization and soil acidification, we applied eight different nitrogen fertilizer and pH treatments to oat seedlings grown in the lab. After six weeks’ growth, we collected soil from all eight treatments. Besides fertilizer and pH effects, previous studies suggest antibiotic production in other bacteria is greater in root zone (rhizosphere) soil than non-root zone (bulk) soil. To investigate whether a similar effect exists for Streptomyces, we collected rhizosphere and bulk soil from the oat pots and from a corn field. We isolated Streptomyces from all soil samples and measured Streptomyces abundance and antibiotic production. In pots, we found no difference in Streptomyces abundance or antibiotic production between fertilizer and pH treatments or between rhizosphere and bulk soil. Field samples showed no difference in Streptomyces antibiotic production between rhizosphere and bulk soil, though Streptomyces abundance was higher in rhizosphere soil. Our findings suggest that while long-term nitrogen fertilizer application and soil acidification impact Streptomyces activity, short-term effects are negligible. While we found no rhizosphere effect on Streptomyces antibiotic production, more samples are needed to confirm this finding.  

Presenters: Raven Sevilleja and Kennedy Hill

Project Adviser: Kerry Michael (Psychology) 

Title: Effect of varying types of background music on memory recall 

Type of Presentation: Poster Presentation, Oyate Hall 5:30-7:00p.m.

Abstract:

Music is used as background noise while completing many tasks, such as studying. It is important to know whether or not having music in the background has an effect on the quality of memory recall. Bell et al. (2023) found that instrumental music inhibited participants' ability to perform a working memory task. This idea was supported by research findings that stated vocal and instrumental music disrupted short-term memory, with vocal music being more disruptive (Salamé & Baddeley, 1989). These conclusions found regarding the effects of vocal and instrumental music provide the basis for our own hypothesis and study design. Our study is a between-subjects design with the independent variable being three levels of music and the dependent variable as the number of words accurately recalled from a list of 15 words. Participants will be randomly assigned to one of the three levels of music: vocal music, instrumental music, and silence (control). We expect that the vocal music group will recall significantly fewer words than the instrumental music group. The control group will recall the greatest number of words in comparison to both the vocal and instrumental music groups.  Understanding the effect of vocal and instrumental music, as well as silence, on recall may provide insight on how to make study sessions more effective, possibly leading to an improved learning mindset and academic performance.  

Presenter: Bella Sieling

Project Adviser: Stan Molchanov (Political Science)

Title: Exploring Resiliency Through Restorative Justice: An Interdisciplinary Study 

Type of Presentation:  John Q. Imholte Hall, Room #101, 2:45 p.m.

Abstract:

This research examines the intersection of restorative justice and resiliency through the lens of positive childhood experiences, shedding light on the potential to address systemic flaws within the current criminal justice system, such as racial disparities and mass incarceration. By emphasizing the cultivation of resiliency, I argue  for a transformative approach that can enhance post-prison quality of life and reduce recidivism rates. The analysis delves into the foundational role of positive childhood experiences in building resiliency and advocating for their integration into the criminal justice system. Drawing attention to the unnoticed alignment between restorative justice practices and the values of positive childhood experiences, my research underscores the untapped potential for connection between these domains. Despite the evident connections in fostering relationships and community, this study reveals a significant research gap concerning the overlap between restorative justice and positive childhood experiences, providing a foundation for future exploration and policy considerations. 

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Presenters: Trevor Swan

Project Adviser: Miriam Gieske (Biology) 

Title: Effect of assay medium pH on inhibitory ability of Streptomyces

Type of Presentation: Poster Presentation, Oyate Hall 5:30-7:00p.m.

Abstract:

Streptomyces bacteria from soil often produce antibiotics which inhibit growth of other microbes.  When comparing Streptomyces’ inhibitory ability between different soils, it may be important to match the pH of the medium used in assays to the pH of the soil they came from.  We assayed Streptomyces isolates collected from a long-term agricultural experiment with nitrogen-fertilized and non-fertilized treatments to determine their ability to inhibit the growth of other bacteria by producing antibiotics.  The average soil pH was 6.8 in fertilized soil and 7.2 in non-fertilized soil.  We dotted isolates on a glucose-asparagine agar medium adjusted to different pH values and overlaid them with a non-pathogenic Streptomyces standard to measure their inhibitory ability.  Some isolates produced different inhibition zone sizes depending on medium pH.  However, the response to assay medium pH did not differ significantly among isolates from soils of different pH.  More tests are needed to determine whether it is necessary to match the medium pH to the pH of the soil the isolates came from when comparing the prevalence of antibiotic production among Streptomyces from different soils. 

Presenters: Lizzy Symons

Project Adviser: Jimmy Schryver (Art History)

Title: Women in Roman Britain   

Type of Presentation:  John Q. Imholte Hall, Room #101, 4:45 p.m.

Abstract:

In Roman Britain (c. 43 BCE - 410 CE) women’s lives have historically been presented as monolithic due to the lack of sources as well as some deficient interpretations of women’s burial monuments and material culture. While there has been significant progress made in the fields of archaeology, art history, and history to explore the lives of ancient women, the scholarship lacks the necessary nuance that male histories often have the privilege of receiving. Roman Britain was a long period that was made up of various cultural groups, most notably the numerous Celtic tribes and Roman settlements. Despite this ethnic diversity, as well as that of class distinctions, the scholarship fails to explore how women fit into these various cultures and what cultures were unique to them. Through an interdisciplinary reevaluation of previous scholarship and the use of recent feminist scholarship, this project exposes methodological issues with how ancient women’s lives have previously been studied. This reevaluation and critique of previous evidence also reveals overlooked or misinterpreted information about women’s lives and culture in Roman Britain. My analysis of funerary monuments, archaeological remains, and textual evidence reveals the cultural diversity of women in Roman Britain as well as the ways in which the methodology of studying women in the ancient world should be adapted to ensure more accurate historical narratives. 

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Presenters: Brooke Christensen and Evelyn Thell

Project Adviser: Kerry Michael (Psychology) 

Title: Investigating the Effect of Glucose on Selective Attention in Young Adults with ADHD 

Type of Presentation: Poster Presentation, Oyate Hall 5:30-7:00p.m.

Abstract:

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a prevalent neurodevelopmental disorder affecting millions of individuals in the United States. ADHD consists of a range of symptoms including cognitive deficits that can significantly impact daily life, leading many individuals to seek treatment. Recently, glucose has been used to increase cognitive performance in children and adults; however, there is little information available on the cognitive effects of glucose in individuals diagnosed with ADHD. This research examines the impact of glucose on cognitive performance, specifically selective attention, in young adults with and without ADHD. Three key aims guide this study: assessing differences in selective attention between ADHD and non-ADHD groups, examining whether glucose consumption influences selective attention in individuals with ADHD, and investigating differences in selective attention between glucose and non-glucose groups. To achieve these aims, participants underwent a single-blind experiment testing their ability to complete the Stroop test.

Presenters: John Walbran

Project Adviser: Elena Machkasova (Computer Science)

Title: Providing Beginners with Interactive Exploration of Error Messages in Clojure  

Type of Presentation: Poster Presentation, Oyate Hall 5:30-7:00p.m.

 Abstract:

Programmers are imperfect, and will often make mistakes when programming and create a program error, for example, attempting to divide by zero. When a computer tries to run a program with an error, the program will halt and present the details of the error to the user in the form of an error message. These error messages are often very jargon-heavy, and are not designed to be palatable to a novice programmer. This creates significant friction for new programmers trying to learn programming languages. My work is a part of an ongoing project (called Babel) led by Elena Machkasova in an attempt to ease this friction in the Clojure programming language. Currently, Babel software is able to replace standard error messages with ones that are more helpful for a beginner audience. My contribution to this project is an exploration of potential tools to effectively display information about errors in an interactive and intuitive manner. The most promising of these tools up to this point has been Morse, created by the company Datomic. As I am continuing to explore the possibilities of Morse and how it can integrate with the existing Babel system, I am putting together potential setups that novice programmers can use to effectively understand and explore the causes of the errors they come across. I will present the setups that I have developed and discuss their benefits and tradeoffs in helping novice programmers understand error messages. 

Presenter: Samara Walker

Project Adviser: Barbara Burke (Communication, Media and Rhetoric)

Title: The Social Impacts Parasocial Relationships have on Social Interactions     

Type of Presentation:  John Q. Imholte Hall, Room #114,  2:15p.m.

Abstract:

Parasocial relationships (PSR) are one-sided relationships that people can form with content creators, mass media figures, and even fictional characters.  Over time, media audience PSRs have been studied for radio soap opera characters, movie stars, and TV personalities, in both domestic and international situations.  In my research, employing a detailed, descriptive case study, I explore examples of public postings/communication to test the assertion that many fans of BTS, a famous K-pop boy band, have created PSRs with the group.  By applying content analysis upon 292 TikTok comments, posted between July 7, 2020 and December 30, 2023, following the hashtag BTS, as well as 290 YouTube comments, from the series RunBTS! posted between October 2022 and December 2023, I find that fans use their communication skills to establish and maintain strong ties to their BTS “friends”. They use the comments to state their dependability as real fans, and to express their “thirstiness” related to particular performers, in literal and creative ways, including using several emojis strategically.   By applying the uses and gratifications theory (UGT), these comments show ways people use comments to realize interpersonal connection, enhance their social interactions, and experience companionship.  This research may apply to understanding reasons why people use the comment section of media as an interactive and creative space. 

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Presenter: Nate Weglewski

Project Adviser: Mark Collier (Philosophy)

Title: AI and Knowledge Transmission    

Type of Presentation:  John Q. Imholte Hall, Room #112,  3:45p.m.

Abstract:

Suppose you ask an artificial intelligence (AI) about the weather tomorrow, and the AI informs you that it will rain. You trust the AI, and lo and behold, the next day there is a storm. It seems reasonable to say that you knew it would rain, but how you obtained that knowledge is less obvious than it appears. While it may seem like the AI has transferred the knowledge to you, the AI you asked—lacking a mind and awareness—is incapable of belief: a mental state which many philosophers hold to be a necessary condition for knowledge; you must believe it’s going to rain tomorrow in order to know it’s going to rain tomorrow. Under this framework, we are left with the question: If the AI did not possess knowledge, how could it have transferred knowledge to you? One view is simply that it didn’t. Rather, in a process similar to generating knowledge about a rock by observing it, you generated knowledge about the weather by observing the AI. In this view, the AI is just an instrument used to obtain information, as opposed to an epistemic agent which creates and shares knowledge. I contend that this “instrumental” view is false, and that on the grounds that one’s belief (or lack thereof) in a proposition is not relevantly distinct from a truth value assigned to a proposition by an AI, even if an AI can’t “believe”, its capability to make determinations about the truth and falsity of propositions is functionally identical to belief. Thus, propositions generated by AI, which are true, and which the AI recognizes or purports as being true, may be classified as knowledge—the AI has transferred knowledge to you after all. 

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 Presenters: Makenna Gerold, Kim Peters, & Ayla Wicklow 

 Project Adviser: Rachel Johnson (Biology)

 Title: The Influence of Monarda fistulosa Extract on Macrophage Functions

 Type of Presentation: Poster Presentation, Oyate Hall 5:30-7:00p.m.

 Abstract:

Monarda fistulosa (wild bergamot) has a history of being used in Native American cultures for its antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties. M. fistulosa contains rosmarinic acid and caffeic acid as some of its major components, which have both been shown to be effective anti-inflammatory agents (Rocha et al., 2015; Spagnol et al., 2019). This is an important area of study due to the concerning side effects of modern synthetic anti-inflammatory drugs, which can lead to stomach ulcers. The goal of this study was to determine if M. fistulosa has significant anti-inflammatory properties. RAW 246 mouse macrophage cells were cultured and used as model cells. Macrophage cells were chosen for this study because they are known to produce cytokines which can contribute to inflammation. A co-culture was performed to assess cell viability using an MTT assay to determine the proliferation of mouse macrophage cells under different concentrations of plant extract. The results of this assay demonstrated that the cells survived after exposure to the M. fistulosa extract. Multiple ELISAs were performed to determine how M. fistulosa affects production of IL-6 and TNFɑ cytokines in mouse macrophage cells. These findings help support the overall hypothesis that M. fistulosa has anti-inflammatory properties and verifies the validity of the usage of wild bergamot in native medicines. 

Presenters: Kayelynn Younkin and Joeli Carlson

Project Adviser: Kerry Michael (Psychology) 

Title: Exploring Native Peoples’ Attitudes Toward Native Food Sovereignty Within Their Home Communities.

Type of Presentation: Poster Presentation, Oyate Hall 5:30-7:00p.m.

Abstract:

A community’s food sovereignty, or their ability to sustain themselves with healthy and culturally appropriate food, is an important factor to consider when looking at the high levels of food insecurity and negative diet-related health outcomes in Native communities. Most research that has been done previously on this subject comes from numerical data and statistics. With our research, we are exploring Native peoples’ perspectives and attitudes on food sovereignty in their home communities and bringing their voices forward. Our research consists of two parts: a survey and a focus group. Participants will fill out a self-reported survey on their basic demographics and the three scales of personal and family diet-related health outcomes, food sovereignty in their home community, and their attitudes towards their home community’s food sovereignty. We expect to find a positive correlation between positive attitudes toward Native food sovereignty and less negative diet-related health outcomes. To give context to the numbers, survey respondents may also choose to participate in focus groups held through Zoom, where they will be guided in their conversations on their personal perspectives of food sovereignty in their home communities. For the focus group, we will conduct a thematic analysis to explore the participants’ attitudes toward food sovereignty. We will compare and contrast their thoughts on food sovereignty with the reported diet-related health outcomes and food accessibility. 

Presenter: Gavin Zempel

Project Adviser: Kevin Whalen (Native American and Indigenous Studies)

Title: Dakod Etkiya: Dakota Perspectives of Boarding School Through a Familial and Tribal Lens 

Feature Presentation:  Edson Auditorium,  7:15p.m.

Abstract:

Pipestone Indian Training School was established in 1891 through illegal land theft from the Ihaŋktuŋwaŋ Dakota, and until its closure in 1953, the institution had the expressed mission of assimilating Dakota children from nearby Dakota communities, as well as children from many other tribes in the local interstate area, into Christian, Anglo-American society. The federal boarding school system, which Pipestone was part of, was a genocidal system of assimilation and land theft that began after outright massacre of Indigenous tribes became unacceptable to the American public following the events of Wounded Knee. Though Pipestone Indian School's purpose was to destroy Native identities and communities, the school instead became a hub of the local Dakota community in Pipestone, MN, as well as a space where students formed and strengthened tribal and intertribal identities and kinship networks despite the active and simultaneous persecution of these identities. Students endured harsh conditions, cultural assimilation, religious indoctrination, corporal punishment, and abuse of every form, while holding onto their own identities and forming new kinship ties with students from other nations. I will use an Indigenous research paradigm, articulated by Shawn Wilson, with reciprocity, relationality, Dakota ways of knowing, the Dakota language and values, and respect at the center of my research to ensure that it is done ethically and with the intent to benefit the families and community being studied. To use a familial lens, communal and familial knowledge and histories will be utilized to show how these institutions affected individuals, families, and Indigenous communities at a more intimate, familial scale. These institutions continue to affect the communities and families of survivors to this day through historically on-going trauma within the bodies of its’ survivors. By looking through a Dakota lens, or through the approach of using traditional Dakota ways of knowing and understanding, the Dakota language oral histories, and Dakota philosophy, I will illustrate how my tribe and families’ experiences surviving Pipestone Training Indian School continues to affect my family and community to this day as it has been ingrained into our DNA as intergenerational trauma, and compounded with already existing, historically on-going trauma. The effects of this trauma have been extreme, resulting poverty, loss of identity, loss of culture, loss of language, mental illness, low educational attainment, short life spans, spiking diabetes rates, as has the resilience Dakota students displayed in surviving their schools’ experiences, maintaining a tribal identity, and creating new kinship bonds with other students from different tribal communities.

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