2024

APS March Meeting 2024

Poster Presentations

LIBSPenny2024

Integrated machine learning and laser spectral analysis of penny composition across the 20th century

Authors: Francisco Gomez Rivas-Vazquez, Carlos Horcasitas, Dieter Manstein, Mia Campbell, P. Diwakar, C. Ochatt, H. Marshall, K. Stump, and E. Grace

Abstract: Using Laser-Induced Breakdown Spectroscopy (LIBS) as an analytical tool coupled with a Nd:YAG 1064 laser, the presence of metals in circulated (1934-1951, 1953, 1956-2008, 2010-2023) and uncirculated mint-condition pennies (1959-2009) can be determined. When analyzing metal composition, excited metal atoms and ions (e.g. Cu) in LIBS spectra can be identified. Using Machine Learning (ML) algorithms, a set of atomic emission peaks were compiled to identify specific metals in sample pennies. Discrepancies between the metal content in empirical data and the theoretical values reported by the US Mint may indicate socioeconomic conditions of various historical eras. Integrating LIBS and ML, this research project recruits high school students for hands-on learning at the intersection of physics, chemistry, data science, history, and socioeconomics.

OpticalTweezers2024

Biophysics Comes to Highschool: Developing a Low-Cost Method for Measuring the Force of a Laser Tweezer Trap

Authors: Paloma Lopes, Sofia Rakhimi, Michael Mederos, Mario Antonaccio, Kristine Stump, Heather Marshall, and Emily Grace

Abstract: Optical tweezers are a Nobel Prize winning technology with interdisciplinary applications including studies in the structure of DNA and molecular biology. We are developing a low-cost optical tweezing apparatus in order to study biomolecules, including the forces required to break damaged and undamaged DNA. Our long term goal is to utilize optical tweezing in order to trap large biomolecules for spectral analysis using Laser-Induced wn Spectroscopy (LIBS). This project is a part of the PLAIDX collaboration, a group focused on giving high school students and underserved undergraduate students access to original biophysics research. By successfully implementing a cost-effective and reliable Quadrant Photodiode (QPD) in a HeNe optical tweezing system, we establish an innovative approach for high school-level biophysics research. This hands-on experience introduces students to advanced scientific concepts and the process of scientific collaboration. Leveraging a Quadrant Photodiode (QPD) paired with a Helium-Neon (HeNe) laser, we optimize an Optical Tweezing System for high school lab settings. This initiative engages high school students at the crossroads of biophysics, engineering, and educational outreach. In our QPD selection, we focus on metrics like sensitivity, signal-to-noise ratio, and cost-effectiveness. Leveraging optical tweezing, we aim to conduct analyses of Brownian motion and molecules like proteins and DNA for anomalies. This project is a part of the PLAIDX collaboration, a group focused on giving high school students and underserved undergraduate students access to original biophysics research. By successfully implementing a cost-effective and reliable QPD in a HeNe optical tweezing system, we establish a new benchmark for high school-level biophysics research. This hands-on experience not only introduces students to advanced scientific concepts but also empowers them to make meaningful contributions, thereby setting new standards for high school biophysics research.

Talks

HighSchoolCure2024

CURE-ing in High School: Incorporating Original Research into a High School Physics Classroom

Author: Emily Grace

Abstract: Course-embedded Undergraduate Research Experiences (CUREs) have become popular methods of engaging students in research across smaller colleges in the USA. There is extensive scholarly literature on the benefits of research engagement within the college classroom. There is less literature on the implementation of this style of instruction in a high school setting. This talk will discuss how a CURE on the construction of a low cost optical tweezing system was adapted from an upper level college biophysics course for a high school Physics 2 class. Through this CURE, students worked to design and build a HeNe optical tweezer and custom inverted microscope with potential application in tweezing biomolecules, red blood cells, and observing Brownian motion. The students developed skills in grant writing, experimental design, and lasers. This is part of a larger initiative to give students access to a hands-on research experience through the Young Researcher’s Program (YREP).

SCIX: 2024

Caplow et al_2025_Shark Blood

Application of LIBS to the Analysis of Heavy Metals in Shark Blood

Authors: Audrey Caplow, Heather Marshall, Kristine Stump, Samuel Kessigner, Jake Jerome, Emily Grace, and Prasoon Dikwar

Recent research on heavy metal contamination in marine environments has revealed elevated levels of several potential toxins in sharks. To what degree the presence of these metals is due to natural bioaccumulation, features of shark metabolism, or anthropogenic sources remains uncertain. In addition, an accurate, low-cost, and potentially field-deployable means of testing for heavy metals in shark blood has been elusive due to the large size and cost of laser or mass spectroscopy systems. We analyzed shark blood samples from Biscayne Bay, FL using two small, inexpensive, handheld systems: Laser-Induced Breakdown Spectroscopy (LIBS) (SciApps) and X-ray fluorescence (XRF) (Olympus Vanta). Both can be easily used in fieldwork with basic sample preparation and require minimal training. Blood samples drawn from 10 total individuals from 10 different species (Carcharhinus acronotus, C. leucas, C. limbatus, C. plumbeus, Ginglymostoma cirratum, Galeocerdo cuvier, Negaprion brevirostris, Rhizoprionodon terraenovea, Sphyrna mokarran, and S. tiburo) were collected between 2021 and 2023. Samples were mounted and dried on slides before laser testing. XRF was found to successfully quantify As, Rb, Se, and Sc in all samples with concentrations varying from being almost undetectable at a +/- < 8 to making up anywhere from 2-10% of the sample’s light elements, depending on the species. All samples contained Pb and Zn in quasi-constant concentrations. Cu, Cd, and Ni were detected in a majority of samples at concentrations close to or below the detection limit (circa 1ppm) of the instrument. Hg was not detected with the present apparatus in the XRF testing. LIBS was easily able to detect lighter elements (Na, Mg, H, K) as well as heavier elements (AS, Pb, Sc). To our knowledge, this is the first application of portable handheld LIBS and XRF technology in the quantification of heavy metals in shark blood. Reliable field-deployable data collection would increase understanding of the sources and impacts of heavy metals in shark populations, with additional implications in human medicine, due to the apparent resistance of sharks to neuro-toxins and degenerative diseases. These topics, as well as a comparison of these analytical techniques, will be further discussed.

RE Climate Change Symposium 2024

Posters

CSP_1_2024

Optical Tweezer Design and Research

Authors: James Brown-Urmeneta, Mia Campbell, Ian Fox, Antonio Macedo, Fiona Mateo, Skye McPhillips, Ronja Stargala, Maximillian Wolfensberger, and Emily Grace

Abstract: At Ransom Everglades, we are pioneering the integration of original research, focusing on integrating optical tweezer technology into high school research to expand the boundaries of educational science programs. Optical tweezers use highly focused laser beams to exert radiation pressure on microscopic particles, enabling precise manipulation and control. This sophisticated tool has rarely been brought to the high school classroom usually because of capital barrier, but through our project, it is now becoming an accessible and formative part of the high school scientific discovery process. This project is based on a Course Embedded Undergraduate Research Experience (CURE) style of teaching lab, aimed at providing hands-on research opportunities that enhance learning outcomes and foster scientific inquiry for young researchers. Our team, consisting of dedicated students as well as our faculty mentor, Dr. Emily Grace, is currently engaged in designing a helium neon laser, coordinating optical tweezing set-up, and aligning the laser pathway integral all of which will optimize the future functionality of the optical tweezers. This initiative is set to expand our understanding of microscopic phenomena and open new avenues for innovative student-led research. After our initial design, we researched cost effective parts and submitted a comprehensive grant proposal to secure funding from our school’s STEM department. Through diligent research, effective resource management, and a successful grant acquisition, we have not only demonstrated that high school students are fully capable of conducting advanced-level research, but we have also laid a solid groundwork for the future expansion of innovative, student-driven projects within our STEM curriculum.

CCS_2_2024

Optical Tweezer Innovation: Leveraging 3D Printing for Precision Component Design

Authors: Stephanie Wallen, Jaral Arroyo-Jefferson, Milo Gorey, Felix Rodriguez, Lucas Romero, and Emily Grace

Abstract: In this project, we delve into the principles of optical trapping by designing and assembling an optical tweezer system, incorporating 3D printed components. Optical tweezers, invented by Arthur Ashkin, utilize focused laser beams to trap and manipulate microscale particles. Our motivation stems from the desire to build upon previous research in optical manipulation techniques and to develop a cost effective set up using 3D printed parts. 3D printing, also known as additive manufacturing, is a process of fabricating three-dimensional objects layer by layer from digital models. Our group tackled the challenge of modeling, designing, and ultimately 3D printing various components for the optical tweezer setup. Our aim is to enhance the efficiency and affordability of our system by utilizing the capabilities of 3D printing technology. The benefits of using 3D printing for our project include customization tailored to our project’s needs, rapid prototyping for quick revisions, and potentially reduced production costs compared to traditional manufacturing methods. Additionally, 3D printing enables us to iterate quickly on our designs, optimizing the performance and functionality of our optical tweezer setup. We successfully designed and 3D printed key components for assembling an optical tweezer, including a mirror stand, a 3-axis stage, and a slide holder. These custom parts are essential to enhance the tweezer’s precision and stability, enabling more accurate manipulation and observation of microscopic particles. We hope that these components will significantly contribute to the overall functionality of the optical tweezer system. By building upon previous research and incorporating 3D printing techniques, our project not only furthers our understanding of light-matter interaction at the microscale but also underscores the role of additive manufacturing in advancing experimental physics research.

CCS_3_2024

Development of an Optical Tweezing System and Applications of Optical Tweezers

Authors: Esmeralda Swietelsky, George Wood-Leness, Daniel Figueroa, Matias de Cardenas, Jackson Langer, and Emily Grace

Abstract: As part of our Advanced Physics: Electromagnetism, Optics, and Modern Physics course, we have undertaken research using optical trapping systems. Optical tweezers allow for the precise manipulation of microscopic particles using a tightly focused laser beam. The system design includes components such as a HeNe laser, beam expansion system, steering mechanisms, and an adjustable platform for sample observation, culminating in an optical trap. There are several applications for optical tweezing. The first application we will work towards is measuring Brownian motion with a HeNe laser setup, demonstrating proof of concept. This fundamental experiment will validate the operational capability of our optical tweezers and serve as an introductory platform for students to explore particle dynamics and the principles of statistical mechanics. Some basic applications of optical tweezers are to trap and manipulate small particles such as atoms, ions, and nanomaterials. Our plans include upgrading to a 1064 nm laser for improved sensitivity in handling delicate biomolecules. Collaborating with RE faculty molecular biologists, we aim to explore novel areas such as shark DNA and non-processive myosins, utilizing optical tweezers for manipulation and analysis. We are also working on implementing a quadruple-trap system to study DNA-DNA interactions. This collaborative approach provides Ransom Everglades students with a unique opportunity to contribute to real-world interdisciplinary research and potentially pioneer studies on shark biology using laser technology. Our project will lay the groundwork for future student research, preparing them for scientific challenges and innovations in higher education and beyond.

Note: Student authors are denoted in Bold Font.

APS stands for American Physical Society.
Note on 2024 Presentations: In YREP’s first year, the alphabetical authorship policy had not yet been adopted, so poster authors are listed in their original order. Additionally, students enrolled in the EMO course were not automatically part of YREP. As a result, some presenters at the RE Climate Change Symposium are not listed on YREP project pages and appear only in the symposium section.

Page updated

Report abuse