Office of Research & Sponsored Programs
GRANTS EXPO & RESEARCH WEEK PROGRAM
&
ABSTRACT
April 19 to April 23, 2021
BOOK
Table of Contents Meet the Team!.......................................................................................3
Monday, April 19 Agenda.........................................................................4
Tuesday, April 20 Agenda.......................................................................6
Wednesday, April 21 Agenda...................................................................8
Thursday, April 22 Agenda.....................................................................13
Friday, April 23 Agenda..........................................................................18
Presenters' Bios.....................................................................................20
Abstracts...............................................................................................27 Computer Science, Business and Human Services Research Abstracts...............................................29
Natural Sciences Research Abstracts.............................................35
Semester-based Undergraduate Research Institute (SURI) Abstracts................................................................46
Meet the Team! Office of Research and Sponsored Programs & Office of Undergraduate Research
Dr. Anika Bissahoyo Assistant Vice President for Research
Dr. Artelia Covington Pre-Award Services Manager
Mrs. Pamela Moses Research Compliance Manager
Ms. Sonya Osei Administrative Assistant
Ms. Ayobami Awe Program Management Specialist
Ms. Julian Olanbiwonnu Program Coordinator
Ms. Dominique Lawrence Technical Student Assistant
Ms. Aniah Watkins Technical Student Assistant
Mr. Eddie Crosby Grants & Contracts Manager
Mrs. Jhovita Williams Program Management Specialist
Mr. Denis Yokam Technical Graduate Assistant
Faculty & Staff Planning Committee Members
Dr. Jesse Bemley Professor Department of Technology & Security
Dr. Euwanna Heard Assistant Professor Department of Nursing
Dr. Latanya Brown-Robertson Professor Department of of Accounting, Finance & Economics
Dr. Jacqueline Smith Ms. Annette Wedderburn Assistant Professor University Events Department Natural Coordinator Sciences
Program Agenda Monday, April 19, 2021
The 5 W's of Undergraduate Research 3:00 PM to 4:00 PM The Office of Undergraduate Research Ambassadors discuss the 5 W's of obtaining undergraduate research opportunities off-campus and on-campus with the Course-based Undergraduate Research Experiences (CURE) Program, the Ronald E. McNair Postbaccalaureate Achievement Program, and the Summer & Semesterbased Undergraduate Research Institute (SURI).
Kirk Williams II is a graduating
Maame Ackon is a rising
senior majoring in Business
senior, majoring in Biology. Her
Information Systems. His
favorite part of undergraduate
favorite aspect of
research is seeing all the
undergraduate research is the
different studies and research
ability to branch off into any
that occur at symposiums. Her
field of study. Mr. William's goal
goals after graduation are to
is to utilize the skills and
pursue medical school and
knowledge learned in
become a physician in
undergraduate research and
Anesthesiology.
apply it to the sports industry.
Program Agenda Monday, April 19, 2021
The 5 W's of Undergraduate Research 3:00 PM to 4:00 PM (Continued)
Dr. Chimdimnma Esimai is the
Mr. Matthias Seisay is the
Course-based Undergraduate
Assistant Director of Bowie
Research Experience (CURE)
State University Ronald E.
Coordinator at Bowie State
McNair Scholars Program. He
University. Dr. Esimai has
has provided many first
participated in multiple
generation and low-income
biological and multi-disciplinary
TRIO participants with
research activities. Dr. Esimai is
academic and post-
dedicated to building
baccalaureate opportunities
sustainable STEM communities
during his nearly 15-year
of scholarship and excellence
career.
and with helping students soar within and outside the classroom, helping them chart their trajectory for future success.
Tuesday, April 20, 2021 NSF Funding Opportunities and Strategies 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM Dr. Claudia Rankins of PRISSEM Academic Services, LLC presents: " NSF Funding Opportunities and Strategies" for Faculty and staff. Session Moderators: Dr. Artelia Covington-
Pre-Award Services Manager
Dr. Claudia Rankins is a senior research associate for PRISSEM Academic Services, LLC, where she conducts faculty development and research development consulting activities, specifically aimed towards faculty at Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) pursuing National Science Foundation (NSF) funding in STEM and STEM education fields.
Dr. Rankins recently retired from the National Science Foundation where she served as a Program Director in the Directorate for Education and Human Resources. She directed the Historically Black Colleges and Universities Undergraduate Program and the HBCU Excellence in Research program. Prior to this post, Dr. Rankins served at Hampton University for 22 years in a number of capacities, including endowed university professor, chair of the department of physics, assistant dean for research, and dean of the School of Science. She is also a proud HBCU graduate, having obtained masters and PhD degrees in Physics from Hampton University.
Dr. Rankins is an advocate for STEM education and research at HBCUs. Her current research interests center around the history of STEM at these institutions. Her research in theoretical particle physics focused on the development of a model to describe distribution amplitudes and form factors of pseudoscalar mesons. Dr. Rankins is the co-founder of the Society of STEM Women of Color, Inc.
Tuesday, April 20, 2021 Computer Science, Business and Human Services Research Presentations 12:00 PM to 1:30 PM Session Moderators: Dr. Jesse Bemley- Department of Technology and Security Mr. Kirk Williams II- Department of Management
Session Evaluators:
Information Systems Dr. Daryl Stone- Department of Technology and Security Dr. Chimdimnma Esimai- Department of Natural Sciences
12:00 PM
Welcome & Introductions Dr. Anika Bissahoyo- Assistant Vice President for Research Ms. Ayobami Awe- Program Management Specialist
12:05 PM
Scholar: Mr. James Harris & Ms. Iyana Downie Mentor: Dr. Marja Humphrey Project Title: School Counselors' Perceptions of Leadership in Elementary Students
12:17 PM
Scholar: Ayodeji Ogundiran Mentor: Dr. Jie Yan Project Title: Blockchain in IoT: A decentralized Smart contract Architecture among Devices in a Smart Home
12:30 PM
12:42 PM
Scholar: Eman Allogmani Mentor: Dr. Darsana Josyula Project Title: Learning with noisy inconsistent data Faculty: Dr. Tibebe Assefa, Dr. Sunando Sungupta, & Dr. Satina Williams
Project Title: Stock Price Reactions to Announcements of Mergers and Acquisitions
12:54 PM
Faculty: Dr. Thaddee Badibanga Project Title: Capital Markets’ Development: Are African Countries Lagging?
1:06 PM
Closing
Wednesday, April 21, 2021 Seeking Funding Opportunities 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM ASCU Grants Resource Center presents: "Services offered to Faculty and Staff in Seeking Funding Opportunities" Session Moderators: Dr. Artelia Covington- Pre-Award Services Manager
Erika Thompson is the Director of
Richard Wellons is Program
the Grants Resource Center
Manager for the Grants Resource
(GRC), a premium service of the
Center (GRC) at the American
American Association of State
Association of State Colleges and
Colleges and Universities. Erika’s
Universities (AASCU). As program
tenure at GRC began in 2003 as a
manager, Richard tracks and
staff associate and she moved up
assembles federal and private
the ranks over the years. Erika’s
funding opportunities for member
vast knowledge of GRC services
institutions and their faculties,
and its members aids her in
visits member institutions to
developing GRC’s continued
conduct grants workshops, trains
success with helping sponsored
new staff, and manages the
researchers stay competitive in an
workflow of services to GRC’s
ever-changing grants landscape.
Category A group of smaller
Erika directs a small staff and
institutions. Richard is the editor of
oversees strategic initiatives,
GRC’s GrantWeek, a weekly news
coordination of member support,
publication, and a contributor to
and management of office
GRC’s Bulletin and Deadlines
workflow. Additionally, Erika
publications. He has conducted
represents GRC at professional
faculty workshops and webinars on
meetings and planning activities.
federal funding, foundation
Prior to joining GRC, Erika worked
funding, proposal development,
for various non-profit
and proposal review. He also
organizations that focus on
manages GRC social media
education and as a high school
content.
English teacher in Prince George's County, Maryland.
Wednesday, April 21, 2021
Natural Sciences Research Presentations 12: 00 PM to 1:45 PM Session Moderators: Dr. Jacqueline Smith- Department of Natural Sciences Session Evaluators:
Ms. Joan Sobo- Department of Natural Sciences Dr. Daryl Stone- Department of Technology and Security Dr. Chimdimnma Esimai- Department of Natural Sciences
12:00 PM
Welcome & Introductions Dr. Anika Bissahoyo- Assistant Vice President for Research Ms. Pamela Moses- Research Compliance Manager
12:05 PM
Scholar: Christian Elcorrobarrutia Mentor: Dr. Anne Osano Project Title: Development of High-Performance ThinLayer Chromatography (HPTLC) methods for characterizing Neem - derived botanicals.
12:15 PM
Scholar: Benvindo Chicha Mentor: Dr. Jacqueline Smith Project Title: BITI-VCP Docking Simulations and Dynamics analysis
12:25 PM
Scholar: Jazmyne Scott Mentor: Dr. Jacqueline Smith Project Title: Synthesis of Novel Meta- and Para-aldehyde Analogs of 5-Aminoimidazole using Microwave Protocols
12:35 PM
Scholar: John Adeleye, Dennis Monderas, & Michelle Ananym
Mentor: Dr. Eric Bonsu Project Title: A Facile Total Synthesis of Toyocamycin
12:45 PM
Scholar: Victor Amadu, Kaishea White, & Maame Ackon Mentor: Dr. Kari Debbink Project Title: Identification of the CYVaV Encapsidation Sequence
Wednesday, April 21, 2021 Natural Sciences Research Presentations (Continued) 12:55 PM
1:05 PM
Scholar: Mayowa Osunsanya Mentor: Dr. Jacqueline Smith Project Title: Chromatography Demo Scholar: Nayanna Hemphill Mentor: Dr. Devyn Gillette Project Title: Investigating the Effect of Time on the Growth of HeLa Cells
1:15 PM
Scholar: David Miller &Nyiah Jordan Mentor: Dr. George Ude Project Title: Longitudinal Study of Seasonal Effects on Soil Microbial Communities at Bowie State University Campus Using A Metagenomic Approach
1:25 PM
Scholar: Camelia Youayou Mentor: Dr. Devyn Gillette Project Title: Investigating Ibuprofen: Understanding the Effect on Growth of HeLa Cells
1:35 PM
Scholar: Alvine Momo Azobou Mentor: Dr. Anne Osano Project Title: Metabolomic Approaches for the Analysis of Phytochemicals of Indigenous Leafy Vegetables of Kenya, Africa
1:45 PM
Closing
Wednesday, April 21, 2021 Introduction to Kuali Research 3:00 PM to 4:00 PM Victor Kizer of Kuali Research presents: "Introduction to Kuali Research" open to Faculty and staff. Session Moderators: Mr. Eddie Crosby- Grants & Contracts Manager Mr. Denis Yokam- Technical Graduate Assistant
Victor Kizer has over a decade of experience working in higher education supporting both sponsored programs and compliance businesses. He started his work in Research Administration at Indiana University and transitioned to supporting Research Administration and Compliance systems before moving to Kuali as a Customer Success Manager. He has worked on over 30 successful research administration and compliance implementations. When not building out smart forms he is a passionate home cook and dog lover.
Wednesday, April 21, 2021 Student Opportunities & Employer Engagement in a Virtual Environment 3:00 PM to 4:00 PM Red River presents: "Opportunities for students and tips on engaging employers in a Virtual Environment" Session Moderators: Dr. Anika Bissahoyo- Assistant Vice President for Research
Richard Ackerman Business leader
Tariq Abdullah Starting at a young
with over 25 years of industry
age I knew I wanted to go against
experience – ownership and delivery
the grain of being a product of the
of P&Ls for IT, Professional Services,
environment around me and not
Project Management & Managed
being expected to do much. Growing
Services practices. Currently
up as a gamer I became very
operating Red River’s Workforce
interested in technology and I was
Development Strategy. Red River
always open to learning new things. I
serves customers in the commercial,
obtained experience in basic
civilian, defense, intelligence,
Information Technology related
healthcare, and SLED markets.
courses such as Cisco and Windows Server. Through this education I obtained an internship where I got to see some real world experience at Prince George's Community College. This propelled me to attend Bowie State University through transfer scholarships where I obtained my Bachelor's in Business Administration Concentrating in Information Systems while accruing no debt for my education. Currently I am pursuing development of my understanding of the Information Technology world with Red River Technologies and understand better my placement in the Information Technology world and develop personally and professionally.
Thursday, April 22, 2021 Innovation and Tech Transfer: What is in it for me? 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM The Commercializer, LLC presents: "Innovation and Tech Transfer"
Session Moderators: Dr. Anika Bissahoyo- Assistant Vice President for Research Ms. Johnetta Hardy- Executive Director, Entrepreneurship Academy
Janeya Griffin, The Commercializer™ -
Nona Cheeks, MBA is founder/CEO
a strategy consultant, serial and social
of Innovatyr, LLC an applied science
entrepreneur, advocate for Intellectual
and technology consulting firm and
property, ownership, inclusive
former Chief of the Strategic
innovation, social justice, and
Partnerships Office at
generational wealth, specifically within
NASA/Goddard Space Flight Center.
underserved communities. A HBCU
In this role she directed the
STEM graduate, member of Delta
Technology Transfer, Small Business
Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated,
Innovation Research/Small Business
and the daughter of two formerly
Technology Transfer Research, and
incarcerated individuals; at the young
Global Partnerships initiatives. Nona
age of 16 she and her younger brother
has been an invited speaker to many
of 6 were introduced into the world of
domestic and international
what it meant to experience hardship.
conferences on the topic of
Not knowing it would be a catalyst in
technology commercialization. Nona
helping her to fulfill her purpose.
is a graduate of the University of
In addition, she is Co-founder and the
Maryland and Loyola University of
Chief Strategy Officer of a creative
Maryland. She also studied and
agency called ConCreates, focused on
earned certificates in leadership and
serving the men, women, and children
management at the University of
both behind and beyond bars, including
Chicago’s School of Business and
changing the narrative and stigma
Simmons College. Nona enjoys
behind how society views people with
working with youth and young adults
criminal histories and how people with
in exploring technology
criminal histories view themselves.
commercialization and entrepreneurship opportunities.
Thursday, April 22, 2021 Innovation and Tech Transfer: What is in it for me? (Continued)
Dr. Michael L. Curry currently
Donald H. White, Ph.D., is a
serves as an Associate Professor in
chemist from Richmond, Ca. and a
the Department of Chemistry and
graduate of John F. Kennedy High
Adjunct Associate Professor in the
School located on Richmond’s
Department of Materials Science
Southside in the heart of the San
and Engineering at Tuskegee
Francisco Bay Area.
University. He received his Bachelor
Dr. White earned his bachelor’s and
of Science degree in Chemistry
Master’s in Chemistry and his PhD in
with a minor in Mathematics from
Material Science & Engineering
the University of West Alabama and
from the illustrious Tuskegee
earned his PhD in Analytical
University. As a Tri-Alumnus, his
Chemistry from The University of
research includes the synthesis,
Alabama. As a university professor
derivation, and incorporation of
and researcher focused on building
nanocellulose into synthetic
a more sustainable future, Dr. Curry,
polymers. As a graduate student at
President, founder and CEO of
Tuskegee he was a part of one of
Eco-friendly Plastic Materials and
the largest multidisciplinary
The Color of STEM Foundation,
consortia funded by The National
dedicates his lifework to creating
Science Foundation: The Center for
the next wave of minority
Sustainable Nanotechnology (CSN).
innovators. His goal is to increase
Dr. White’s passion in research has
the number of highly trained
led him into his mission of STEM
minority professionals within the
education under the trade name Da
STEM and entrepreneurship
Chemist he goes into the public-
pipelines, strategically move the
school system to teach kids in
needle forward on minority-inspired
middle and high school the
innovation, and powerfully influence
importance of chemistry. This has
the movement of STEM diversity.
led Dr. White to author a children’s chemistry book which teaches basic laboratory skills and chemical concepts.
Thursday, April 22, 2021 Semester-based Undergraduate Research Institute (SURI) Research Presentations 12: 00 PM to 1:30 PM Session Moderators: Ms. Ayobami Awe- Office of Undergraduate Research Ms. Maame Ackon- Department of Natural Sciences
12:00 PM
Welcome & Introductions Dr. Guy-Alain Amoussou- Associate Provost Julian Olanbiwonnu- Program Coordinator
12:10 PM
Scholar: Sayeeda Jordan Mentor: Dr. Sheneese Thompson Project Title: Black Women’s Representations in the U.S. Media Industry
12:20 PM
12:30 PM
Scholar: Michelle Ananym & Vincent Osekwe Mentor: Dr. Jacqueline Smith Project Title: Tryptophan analog synthesis & fluorescence Scholar: Leia Wedge, Shakira Miles, & Sudan Smith Mentor: Dr. Uchenna Onuzulike Project Title: College Students and Body Image: An Analysis of Self-Presentation and Comments Left by Instagram Followers
12:40 PM
Scholar: Dainese Smothers, Mical Lindsay, Rahmat Husain Mentor: Dr. Supriyo Ray Project Title: Elucidate functions of uncharacterized proteins from Staphylococcus aureus
12:50 PM
Scholar: Danae Stewart Mentor: Dr. Ella Carter Project Title: Black Student Experiences in Majority vs. Minority Institutions
Thursday, April 22, 2021 Semester-based Undergraduate Research Institute (SURI) Research Presentations (continued) 1:00 PM
Scholar: Tiffany Cunningham Mentor: Dr. Kim Barnett and Dr. Ruth Leslie Project Title: Advancing the Demarginalization of Students of Color
1:10 PM
Scholar: Anwar Rochee & Clarissa Smith Mentor: Dr. Emory Perkins & Dr. Sharon Wilks Project Title: HIV/AIDS and Risk-taking Behaviors with the HIV Positive and Negative Status of African-American Women
1:20 PM
Closing Remarks
Thursday, April 22, 2021
Resume Writing for Federal Jobs and Internships 3:00 PM to 4:00 PM Linda Gray presents: "Resume Writing for Federal Jobs and Internships" Session Moderators: Ms. Sonya Osei- Administrative Assistant Ms. Pamela Moses- Research Compliance Manager
Ms. Linda Gray is a Native Washingtonian with an extensive 29-year career in Human Resources in the federal government. She has served in various leadership roles in seven federal agencies to include the Federal Aviation Administration; Transportation Security Administration; U.S. Customs and Border Protection; the Internal Revenue Service, the Department of Defense, and the Small Business Administration. She is currently a senior executive at the Environmental Protection Agency where she serves as a human resources consultant as the Workforce Development Executive in the Office of Land Emergency Management (OLEM). Her human resources experience includes strategic leadership of all policy, planning, and oversight activities associated with human resources programs and policies, to include: recruitment and staffing; training and development; diversity and inclusion; labor and employee relations; workforce planning; retirement and benefits, policy and accountability; and worklife programs. Some of her human resources highlights include: transforming and streamlining the frontline hiring process; instituting process improvements in all area of human resources through technology; and standing up a benefits operations center. Ms. Gray recently had the opportunity to serve on a detail at Bowie State University where she mentored and led the next generation of federal employees and leaders. She taught various sessions on leveraging strengths and aligning majors to federal employment.
Friday, April 23, 2021
Program Agenda Recognizing Innovation and Scholarly Activities through Research, Training, and Technology Development. 11:30 AM to 1:00 PM Welcome & Introductions........................................Dr. Anika Bissahoyo Assistant Vice President for Research
Opening Remarks......................................................Dr. Aminta H. Breaux President
Presentation of Millionaire's Club Awards.................................................................Dr. Aminta H. Breaux Introduction of Dr. Claudia Rankins...............................Dr. Devyn Gillette Assistant Professor, Dept. Natural Sciences
Remarks..........................................................................Dr. Claudia Rankins Senior Research Associate for PRISSEM Academic Services, LLC
Introduction of Dr. Carl B. Goodman...........................Dr. Anika Bissahoyo Remarks..................................................................... ..Dr. Carl B. Goodman Provost & Vice President for Academic Affairs
Faculty Awards..............................................................Dr. Anika Bissahoyo Introduction of Dr. Grant Warner..................................Ms. Johnetta Hardy Executive Director, Entrepreneurship Academy
Remarks..............................................................................Dr. Grant Warner Director of Innovation for the College of Engineering & Architecture at Howard University
Remarks by students.................................................................................... Research Participant Awards...............................Dr. Guy-Alain Amoussou Semester-based Undergraduate Research Institute
Associate Provost
Grants Expo & Research Week Participants
Closing Remarks............................................................Dr. Anika Bissahoyo
Friday, April 23, 2021 Recognizing Innovation & Scholarship Recognizing Innovation and Scholarly Activities through Research, Training, and Technology Development. (continued) Guest Speakers:
Dr. Grant M. Warner is the
Dr. Claudia Rankins is a senior
Director of Innovation for the
research associate for PRISSEM
College of Engineering &
Academic Services, LLC, where she
Architecture on Howard University’s
conducts faculty development and
campus. Dr. Warner serves as an
research development consulting
instructor in the nation’s largest
activities, specifically aimed
deep technology accelerator, the
towards faculty at Historically Black
National Science Foundation (NSF)
Colleges and Universities (HBCUs)
I-Corps program, which focuses on
pursuing National Science
lab-to-market innovations across
Foundation (NSF) funding in STEM
NSF’s portfolio. He directs the
and STEM education fields.
Howard University – Hampton
Dr. Rankins recently retired from the
University I-Corps Site that focuses
National Science Foundation where
on commercializing university
she served as a Program Director in
research from HBCUs, in particular.
the Directorate for Education and
Dr. Warner has also had the
Human Resources. She directed the
opportunity to support Lab-to-
Historically Black Colleges and
Market activities in Africa via the
Universities Undergraduate Program
Innovate Egypt and GIST-Senegal
and the HBCU Excellence in
programs. Bowie State University
Research program. Dr. Rankins is
was awarded an I-Corps
an advocate for STEM education
supplement from NSF through the
and research at HBCUs. Her current
Accelerate George Washington
research interests center around the
University I-Corps program in
history of STEM at these institutions.
partnership with Howard University
Her research in theoretical particle
and Dr. Warner trained four BSU
physics focused on the development
faculty members and an industry
of a model to describe distribution
partner in an intense “Train the
amplitudes and form factors of
Trainer” program. He is the co-
pseudoscalar mesons. Dr. Rankins is
founder of ConnectYard, a social
the co-founder of the Society of
analytics platform integrated into
STEM Women of Color, Inc.
leading learning management systems and e-learning platforms.
Biographical Sketches
Dr. Jesse Bemley- Professor Department of Technology & Security
Bio: Dr Bemley, a professor in the
Dr. Latanya Brown-RobertsonProfessor Department of of Accounting, Finance & Economics
Department of Technology and
Bio: Dr. Brown-Robertson is a full
Security, has a long history of
professor of Economics at Bowie
working with precollege and
State University. Her research and
undergraduate in STEM disciplines,
fields include Data
primarily in computing and
Science and Analytics, Urban
mathematics. He takes pride in
Economics, Housing Economics,
preparing his students for making
and Stratification Economics. She
presentations within the local
holds publications in
community as well as at national
various peer-reviewed journals,
and international conferences and
including the American Economic
professional meetings. The young
Review, Eastern Economic
men and women are encouraged
Association Journal, Review
to participate in student-initiated
of the Black Political Economy,
projects for which they learn to
and Journal of the Community
undertake research and complete
Development Society. Dr. Brown-
in a timely fashion. As a project is
Robertson has worked on
in progress, the next step is
funded grants through the
learning to present it before an
Carnegie and Ford Foundations to
audience. For many of his students,
address issues facing underserved
Dr. Bemley represents a surrogate
communities in the United
father. He can convince any
States. Dr Brown currently serves
student over time to accept
as Principal Investigator for two
challenges and strive to do well. All
Data Science and Analytics
of the young people grow as a
Grants and leads the Data
result of being trained and
Science Analytics Initiative at
coached by him.
Bowie State University.
Dr. Euwanna Heard -Assistant Professor Department of Technology & Security
Bio: Dr. Euwanna A. Heard is an Assistant Professor and the Graduate Program Coordinator in the College of Professional Studies, Department of Nursing (DON), Graduate Nursing program at Bowie State University since February 2019. Dr. Heard has a long history at Bowie State University (BSU). She served as adjunct faculty in the DON at BSU for fourteen years before joining the rank of Assistant Professor. She is also a Bowie Alumna, receiving her Bachelor of Science in Nursing and her Master of Science in Nursing, Family Nurse Practitioner at BSU. Dr. Heard was employed as a family nurse practitioner in the Henry Wise Wellness Center for eight years and continues to serve on the Wellness Committee. She received her Associate in Applied Science, Nursing (AAS, Nursing) Degree from the University of the District of Columbia. She earned her Doctorate of Education in Higher Education and Adult Learning from Walden University.
Dr. Jacqueline Smith-
Assistant
Professor Department of Natural Sciences
Bio: Dr. Jacqueline Smith is an Assistant Professor of Chemistry in the Department of Natural Sciences. At Bowie, Jacqueline is developing a research program focused on small molecule therapeutics to target resistant breast cancer. She is also using organic synthesis to develop bioanalytical tools that will ultimately be used for drug delivery. Since arriving at Bowie in 2016, Dr. Smith has mentored over 30 undergraduate students in her lab. Several of Dr. Smith's students continue to pursue research in graduate school or post baccalaureate programs while many others enter professional school. Dr. Smith has a passion for outreach and works with local schools to enhance K-12 exposure to STEM. Dr. Smith’s research is supported by NSF.
Dr. Jie Yan- Professor
Dr. Marja Humphrey
Department of Computer
Department of Counseling
Sciences
Presentation ID: 15
Presentation ID: 4
Bio: Dr. Jie Yan, is a professor in
Bio: Dr. Marja Humphrey, an
the Department of Computer
assistant professor in the School
Science and the Director of
Counseling program, prepares
Machine Perception & Animation
graduate students to work
lab and Cybersecurity Application
professionally with students,
Lab at Bowie State University. Her
families and individuals in urban
areas of expertise include
communities. Her research interests
Computer Graphics, Computer
include Counselor preparation,
Vision, Machine Learning, and
Leadership, Wellness, and Online
Cybersecurity Education. She has
Learning. She has taught, advised
published about 50 peer-
and counseled K-12 students,
reviewed papers in international
college students with disabilities,
journals and conference
and adults with depression, anxiety
proceedings and held two US
and substance use disorders. A
patents. Before joining BSU, she
coauthor of Elements of Culture in
was a researcher at Microsoft
Counseling, a multicultural
Research Asia and University of
counseling text, and several
Colorado at Boulder. Since joining
published articles, Dr. Humphrey
BSU, she was successfully
has also presented at state,
awarded over $1M from NSF.
regional and national conferences.
Currently Dr. Yan is conducting
She is currently serving as the co-
two major NSF projects: 1) LUCID:
chair for the Emerging Leaders
A Spectator Targeted
program with the Maryland
Visualization System to Broaden
Counseling Association and
Participation at Cyber Defense
represents Bowie State University
Competitions (Award ID: 1303424,
with the Maryland Consortium for
893K) 2) Targeted Infusion Project:
Adjunct Faculty Professional
Developing a Cloud-based
Development.
Cryptographic Simulator for Enhancing Undergraduates' Learning Experience in Cybersecurity Education (Award ID: 1714261, 399K).
Mr. James Harris
Ms. Iyana Downie
Department of Counseling
Department of Counseling
Presentation ID: 4
Presentation ID: 4
Bio: Hello. My name is James
Bio: Hello. My name is Iyana
Harris. I am currently a
Downie. I am a graduate student at
professional school counselor in
Bowie State University in the
Maryland. I am a recent graduate
School Counseling program.
of Bowie State University.
Leadership is an important topic for
Leadership is an important topic
me because I believe everyone
for me as we prepare students for
should have an opportunity for their
success. This article was
voice to be heard no matter their
important to participate in as an
age or size. When we place
upcoming school counselor to
ourselves in leadership positions,
know what tools to use for my
the opportunities, and positive
students to develop them into
experiences one gains and offers
leaders.
to others is limitless. This article was important to participate in as an upcoming school counselor because being a school counselor and a leader go hand and hand. It gave me insight on the various programs and opportunities that are already available in elementary schools. The article inspired me in more ways than one and further strengthened my passion for school counseling.
Dennis Monderas-
Benvindo Chicha-
Undergraduate
Undergraduate
Department of Natural Sciences
Department of Natural Sciences
Presentation ID: 8
Presentation ID: 6
Bio: I am a student pursuing a
Bio: I am Ben Chicha, a junior
career in medical field and
Bioinformatics major from
planning to apply for MD/PhD
Brockton, MA. I absolutely love
program. I was also a member
research and science. It's been my
of the SURI program (Semester
dream since I was little to be a
Undergraduate Research
genetic engineer.
Institute) during the Spring of 2020 as a research assistant in University. During my first year in Bowie State, I was part of student leadership program which help students perform a leadership role.
David Miller- Undergraduate
Camelia Youayou-
Department of Natural Sciences
Undergraduate
Presentation ID: 13 Bio: David Miller is a Graduating
Department of Natural Sciences
Presentation ID: 14
Senior at Bowie State University.
Bio: I am Camelia Youayou, a
Since Transfering in Spring 2020
junior Biology major at Bowie
David has shown a love of the
State University. I'm very excited
Natural Science Department
to be working alongside Dr.
and Bowie State. He has
Gillette and to be presenting my
become a TA and is an active
hard work to you all. I am
member of Army ROTC. In the
originally from Newark, Delaware
future, David Plans to
and I aspire to one day work
commission in the United States
within the pharmaceutical science
Army as a 2nd Luitenant. He
field. Making a difference in my
then go to medical school where
community and others alike
he will obtain his MD/MPH. His
around the world. Once again, I
career goal is to become an
am very excited to take part in
OB/GYN to drastically reduce
this opportunity and to share my
the mortality rate of black
findings!
mothers during delivery and increase the fertility rate of black mothers.
Jazmyne Scott- Undergraduate
Eman Allogmani
Department of Natural Sciences
Department of Computer
Presentation ID: 7 Bio: Hello All, My name is
Sciences
Presentation ID: 16
Jazmyne Scott and I am a senior
Bio: Eman Allogmani is a doctoral
chemistry major. I enjoy creating
candidate in the computer
compounds and completing
science department at Bowie
research as I have experience
State University. She is a faculty
working in the lab under Dr.
member in the department of
Jacqueline Smith. I am also a
computer science at Majmaah
student-athlete, playing for
University, Saudi Arabia.
Bowie State’s women’s
Allogmani's research interest lies
basketball team. When I
in the fields of machine learning,
graduate, I intended on
Data Science, and Natural
becoming a pharmaceutical
Language Processing.
scientist – studying cures for cancers and diseases.
Ayodeji Ogundiran Department of Computer Sciences
Presentation ID: 15 Bio: Ayodeji Ogundiran is a Doctoral Candidate in the department of Computer Science. His research areas include Biometrics, Internet-ofThings, and Blockchain Technology. He is currently working on his dissertation in developing a decentralized architecture for decision making among smart devices in a smart home environment. He also worked on the Targeted Infusion project, developing a Cryptographic Simulator for Enhancing Undergraduates’ Learning Experience in Cybersecurity Education.
ABSTRACTS
Presentation Sessions 1. Computer Science, Business and Human Services Research Presentations 2. Arts & Sciences Research Presentation 3. Semester-based Undergraduate Research Institute (SURI) Research Presentation
Session 1: Computer Science, Business and Human Services Research Presentations Tuesday, April 20, 2021 12:00 PM- 1:30 PM
Dr. Marja Humphrey Department of Counseling
James Harris Department of Counseling
Iyana Downie Department of Counseling
Presentation ID: 4 Project Title: School Counselors' Perceptions of Leadership in Elementary Students
Abstract School counselors implement the American School Counselor Association (ASCA) National Model in their daily work with students. The ASCA Mindsets & Behaviors (learning strategies, self-management skills, and social skills) build the foundation for students’ leadership. Yet, there is a gap in the literature; many elementary schools lack an intentional leadership development program. In this study, seven elementary school counselors shared their perceptions of developing elementary student leaders. Results indicate that while school counselors are already cultivating students’ leadership characteristics through social-emotional lessons, they desire more targeted leadership language and tools to develop leadership traits in all elementary students.
Keywords: leadership, elementary students, SEL learning
Ayodeji Ogundiran Department of Computer Sciences
Dr. Jie Yan- Professor Department of Computer Sciences
Presentation ID: 15 Project Title: Blockchain in IoT: A decentralized Smart contract Architecture among Devices in a Smart Home
Abstract In the consumer market, Internet of Things (IoT) technology is most synonymous with products pertaining to the concept of the "smart home", covering smart devices and appliances that support one or more common ecosystems, and can be controlled via devices associated with that ecosystem. One of the technical challenges of having such a smart ecosystem is the ability to manage the devices that are part of these ecosystems. Even though access management technologies exist in IoT, they are usually based on centralized architecture which introduce varieties of technical limitations to manage them globally. In this paper, we propose a new aspect oriented designed architecture for arbitrating connectivity in an IoT ecosystem. The architecture is a fully distributed system based on blockchain technology and smart contracts. The results show that blockchain technology can be used as a technology in specific scalable IoT scenarios.
Keywords: Internet of Things, Smart Contracts
Eman Allogmani Department of Computer Sciences
Dr. Darsana Josyula- PROFESSOR Department of Computer Sciences
Presentation ID: 16 Project Title: Learning with noisy inconsistent data Abstract Most Deep Learning algorithms are more beneficial when learning from large amounts of data. The quality of the data plays an important role in the performance of classifiers. Mislabeled data instances exist in the training data and often degenerate the performance of the classification models. Identifying and eliminating mislabeled training instances can noticeably improve the trained classifiers. We introduce a new approach to detect such noise and eliminating them based on analysis of the loss function throughout the variance of k-fold cross-validation.
Keywords: Machine learning Noise reduction
Dr. Tibebe Assefa Department of Accounting, Finance, and Economics
Dr. Sunando Sungupta Department of Accounting, Finance, and Economics
Dr. Satina Williams Department of Accounting, Finance, and Economics
Presentation ID: 18 Project Title: Stock Price Reactions to Announcements of Mergers and Acquisitions
Abstract This paper investigates whether abnormal returns exist around the announcements for Mergers and Acquisitions (M&A) that occurred from 2000 to 2019. We analyze the impact of the M&A announcements on the stock price of acquiring and acquired firms. Earlier research has shown that M&A events related to stock-generated investor reactions tend to affect the stock price of the companies involved in the M&A transactions, usually on a very short basis. When a company acquires another company, the stock price of the target company typically will rise, and the stock price of the acquiring company declines, in the short term. It is predicted, in prior research, that the target company’s stock will rise because the acquiring company pays a premium for the acquisition. Amazon, Facebook, General Electric, Google and Cisco are examples of well-known companies that have participated in M&As. Our sample consists of 200 pairs of firms that announced M&As over twenty-years period from 2000-2019. We first identify the announcement or event dates and then utilize Event-Study methodology Eventus, from the Wharton Research Database (WRDS), to test for the presence of abnormal returns around the event dates. Our results show significant positive 11. 10 percent Cumulative Abnormal Returns (CAR) for the acquired firms one day before the announcement date up to the announcement date for acquired firms. On the contrary, the results show significant negative CAR of 1.63 percent for the acquiring firms from 1 days before the announcement date, which could be due to the premium paid to acquire.
Keywords: Abnormal Returns, Mergers and Acquisition
Dr. Thaddee Badibanga Department of Accounting, Finance, and Economics
Presentation ID: 19 Project Title: Capital Markets’ Development: Are African Countries Lagging?
Abstract African countries have been known until recently as the least developed and poorest countries on earth. In the 1990s, the African economy grew annually on average at a rate of about 1.2 percent while its population annual growth rate was 3 percent on average, contributing to increasing the poverty rate to 56 percent. However, that poor growth performance was reversed in early 2000s. Indeed, the African economy grew annually on average between 2003 and 2007 at a rate of 5 percent. Such growth rate was not only greater than the annual average population growth rate for the first time in decades but also, it was greater than the world annual growth rate. This strong but short growth performance was ended by the 2007-2009 financial crisis, revealing thus the vulnerability of the African economy to external shocks and raising at the same time the needs for developing internal mechanisms of fund raising in order to finance investments. In this paper, we investigate the performance of the capital markets in African countries. African countries have made some progress but their bond markets are either underdeveloped or are in their infant stage. The stock markets are a little bit developed in a few African countries. However, they are still experiencing serious issue including low capitalization, low liquidity, and a short list of participating companies on the stock exchange. More realistic policies have the potential of speeding the development of capital markets. The most urgent ones are those that emphasize the reinforcement of institutional capacity to enforce contracts and commercial regulations, the creation of electronic registry systems of property ownership, the reinforcement of monetary policy, the diversification of financial portfolio options, and the creation of secondary markets.
Keywords: Capital Markets Development
Session 2: Natural Sciences Research Presentations Wednesday, April 21, 2021 12:00 PM- 1:45 PM
Christian Elcorrobarrutia- Undergraduate Department of Natural Sciences
Anne Osano- Professor Department of Natural Sciences
Presentation ID: 3 Project Title: Development of High-Performance Thin-Layer Chromatography (HPTLC) methods for characterizing Neem - derived botanicals.
Abstract Azadirachta indica A Juss, commonly known as Neem (Neemtree), is a world-renowned plant famous for its use in non-pesticidal pest control. Also, in Indian and South East Asian traditional medicines Neem is widely used for treating a variety of ailments. While azadirachtin and salannin are associated with insecticidal properties, the constituents responsible for the medicinal properties are still under study. For use as a herbal drug or as raw material for the production of herbal medicines, it is important to characterize the chemical profile of the plant material and assure adherence of certain quality parameters.
HPTLC is a suitable technique for identification and quality control of herbal materials. Several accessions of Neem leaf, root, and bark from Kenya were used for developing an HPTLC method that allows the investigation of natural variability of a broad range of constituents including flavonoids, plant acids and limonoids in the different plant drugs. The method is also suitable for discriminating related plant drugs derived from Melia azedarach L. (Chinaberry tree) which is a common adulterant. Because the proposed method can also quantitatively assess several markers, it is a suitable starting point for establishing quality criteria for raw materials and extracts.
Keywords: HPTLC Neem Medicinal Plants
Benvindo Chicha- Undergraduate Department of Natural Sciences
Dr. Jacqueline Smith Department of Natural Sciences
Presentation ID: 6 Project Title: BITI-VCP Docking Simulations and Dynamics analysis Abstract Valosin-containing protein (VCP) is an integral enzyme essential to cell growth and development, retained in nearly all organisms. The enzyme consists of 6 identical subunits each containing an N terminal cofactor binding region and D1 and D2 ATPase domains. Studies revealing some of the many and varied functions of the enzyme have suggested it may be a good target for anti-cancer drugs. Later studies confirmed this with the discovery of allosteric inhibitors that reduce cancer cell viability. One such inhibitor is UPCDC30245 which binds to each subunit in the linker region between the D1 and D2 domains. This prevents a very minute but critical conformational change which prevents the transition to active state. Despite its usefulness in decoding some of the mechanisms of the enzyme, UPCDC30245 has not proven to be a suitable drug. This study aims to assess the validity of novel compounds as specific allosteric inhibitors of VCP using docking calculations and molecular dynamics simulations. These novel compounds are imidazoles known at BITIs. Each of which is predicted to be bound to VCP in different states using docking programs such as PyRx and LigPlot. Finally, molecular dynamics simulations will be used to evaluate binding in life-like conditions.
Keywords: Docking, Bioinformatics, Cancer
Jazmyne Scott- Undergraduate Department of Natural Sciences
Jacqueline Smith Department of Natural Sciences
Presentation ID: 7 Project Title: Synthesis of Novel Meta- and Para-aldehyde Analogs of 5-Aminoimidazole using Microwave Protocols
Abstract Synthesis of Novel Meta- and Para-aldehyde Analogs of 5Aminoimidazole using Microwave Protocols The Valosin containing protein, or VCP, enables protein homeostasis in cells. Cancer cells use the ubiquitin-proteasome pathway as an alternative means for homeostasis and growth.Therefore, inhibiting VCP would result in accumulation of misfolded proteins or toxic protein aggregation in the cell. This research aims to synthesize compounds that can bind to an allosteric site of VCP, in order to inhibit the protein. The structural requirements of the compound informed the synthetic goals, as 5 membered rings are more selective than 6 membered rings. The first step is the synthesis of Schiff bases, the method used is a multicomponent reaction that involves a nucleophilic addition and dehydration to form the imine. This is in contrast to other 5 membered ring inhibitors which require up to 7 steps for synthesis. Due to the nature of the first step, we predict that the yields will be greater for the m- and p- constituents with electron donating groups. Synthesis of the aldehyde analogs involved a reaction setup utilizing the microwave to increase the temperature to 220 degrees Celsius, with an overall reaction time of 10 minutes. Fourteen compounds were synthesized overall. Future work will involve the reduction of the nitrogen double bond at the 5-C position of the imidazoles to enable more flexibility increasing the chances of attaching to the allosteric site.
Keywords: Chemistry
John Adeleye- Undergraduate Department of Natural Sciences
Eric Bonsu- Professor Department of Natural Sciences
Dennis Monderas- Undergraduate Department of Natural Sciences
Michelle Ananym- Undergraduate Department of Natural Sciences
Presentation ID: 8 Project Title: A Facile Total Synthesis of Toyocamycin Abstract The purpose of our project is to develop a simple method to synthesize an anti-cancer, antiviral compound named Toyocamycin. Toyocamycin and its analogues have shown potential for being anti-tumor, antiviral and antimicrobial agents. This compound is a potent inhibitor of RNA self-cleavage in mammalian cells. Even though toyocamycin and some of its analogues have shown to be potent anti-tumor compounds, they show high cytotoxicity to normal human cells, thus, making them clinically worthless. We have designed an approach for toyocamycin synthesis where modifications are made on the sugar and base to increase efficacy and reduce cytotoxicity. In addition, this trial, we have increased the efficiency of this experiment. Originally, it took us over a month to produce our desired product. We were able to greatly reduce the time required for this experiment by altering the procedure such as when we increased the temperature of the oil bath we used to combine our reactants. This project is very important because this will contribute to scientific knowledge about a potent anticancer compound and investigate easier ways of synthesizing it, perhaps in gram scale. The success of this project would allow us to run a scaled-up reaction to produce a greater amount of toyocamycin in less time. Once gram scale quantities of toyocamycin are acquired, the next phase/project will be several sugar and base modifications to obtain more efficacious analogues for cancer chemotherapy.
Keywords: Medicinal Chemistry, Synthesis, Health, Cancer
Victor Amadu- Undergraduate Department of Natural Sciences
Kari Debbink- Assistant Professor Department of Natural Sciences
Maame Ackon- Undergraduate Department of Natural Sciences
Kaishea White- Undergraduate Department of Natural Sciences
Presentation ID: 9 Project Title: Identification of the CYVaV Encapsidation Sequence Abstract Huanglongbing (HLB) is an aphid-transmitted bacterial disease that prevents the ripening of citrus fruits and has devastated the citrus industry in Florida. Many approaches such as antibiotics, heat treatments, and aphid control have been used to combat this disease, but none of the current approaches is effective. Citrus yellow-vein associated virus (CYVaV) is a recently identified virus-like RNA that infects citrus, but is non-pathogenic. CYVaV has the potential to be used as a vector to deliver anti-HLB substances to citrus plants. One drawback to using an infectious particle for disease control is ensuring that CYVaV cannot be transmitted to other plants since its effects on non-citrus plants are unknown. By itself, CYVaV cannot be transmitted by an aphid vector because it does not contain a protective coat protein. However, CYVaV can be encapsidated by the coat protein of another virus, citrus vein enation virus (CVEV), giving it the potential to be transmitted from plant-to-plant by insect vectors. Our work aims to identify and ablate the CYVaV encapsidation sequence so that distribution of the therapeutic vector can be controlled. To do this, we made predictions about the location of the encapsidation sequence and are creating deletion mutants in different parts of CYVaV. We will then use agroinfiltration of N. benthamiana plants to determine which CYVaV mutants fail to be encapsidated by CVEV coat protein. Overall, this work will determine the specific nucleic acid sequence responsible for encapsidation, so that the CYVaV-CVEV coat protein interaction can be ablated, allowing CYVaV to be safely used as a delivery system for anti-HLB substances.
Keywords: virology, citrus
Mayowa Osunsanya- Undergraduate Department of Natural Sciences
JacquelineSmith Department of Natural Sciences
Presentation ID: 11 Project Title: Chromatography Demo Abstract Column chromatography is a purification technique that relies on the difference in the speed of a compound through a medium based on it’s polarity. There are usually two mobile phases and a stationary phase, based on the polar properties of the compound being purified. Traditional flash purification tends to be labour intensive and timeconsuming, with the process lasting hours and an increased possibility of making errors. With the use of the Biotage Selekt automated column, the run-time is reduced drastically, from hours to minutes. There are also improved results, as the usual sources of errors in manual columns are instead automated.
Keywords: Chromatography, Column, Polarity
Nayanna Hemphill- Undergraduate Department of Natural Sciences
Devyn Gillette- Assistant Professor Department of Natural Sciences
Presentation ID: 12 Project Title: Investigating the Effect of Time on the Growth of HeLa Cells
Abstract Maintaining proper cell conditions of cell lines is an imperative part of the cell culture process. In particular, understanding the density of cells in a culture environment is critical to ensure they can achieve proper polarity, morphology, and maintain healthy characteristics. In this project, we strive to understand how HeLa cells grow over time. HeLa cells, derived from Ms. Henrietta Lacks, are the world’s first human cell line. These cervical adenocarcinoma epithelial cells have laid the groundwork for many scientific achievements over the years. In this project, we seeded various densities of HeLa cells and observed their growth conditions over a 24-hour period. We were able to identify various confluency values during this time period and this work builds a framework for how to correctly seed cells to prepare for future experimentation.
Keywords: Hela, Confluency, Cell Culture,
David Miller- Undergraduate Department of Natural Sciences
George Ude- Department Chair Department of Natural Sciences
Nyiah Jordan Department of Natural Sciences
Presentation ID: 13 Project Title: Longitudinal Study of Seasonal Effects on Soil Microbial Communities at Bowie State University Campus Using A Metagenomic Approach
Abstract Metagenomics is the application of modern genomic techniques to the study of communities of microbial organisms directly in their natural environments, which bypasses the need for isolation and lab cultivation of individual species. Using the metagenomic approach, soil microbial communities from three locations (Henry Circle Fountain, Loop Road Lake, and Loop Road Stream) on Bowie State University’s (BSU) campus were analyzed across all seasons (Fall 2019, Spring 2020, Summer 2020, and Winter 2021). Soil microbiome is one of the world’s largest collection of biodiversity; its microorganisms play critical roles in the regulation of soil fertility, carbon cycle, nitrogen fixation, etc., yet a vast majority of soil microorganisms are still unknown. The aim of this research was to determine the impact of seasonal change on the diversity of BSU’s soil microbiome and to identify its microbial diversity by season and location. DNA extraction was performed, followed by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) using 16SrDNA index primers, and gel electrophoresis to determine successful amplification of PCR samples. Samples were sequenced and analyzed using DNA Subway’s Purple line for metabarcoding used to identify microbial taxa and genetic variations within BSU's soil microbial community. Results determined Proteobacteria as the most abundant phyla across all seasons and locations. Other abundant phyla identified were Bacteroidetes, Chloroflexi, Acidobacteria, Verrucomicrobia, Cyanobacteria, Bacteroidetes and Chloroflexi.
Keywords: Metagenomics, Metabarcoding, Soil diversity
Camelia Youayou- Undergraduate Department of Natural Sciences
Devyn Gillette- Assistant Professor Department of Natural Sciences
Presentation ID: 14 Project Title: Investigating Ibuprofen: Understanding the Effect on Growth of HeLa Cells
Abstract Ibuprofen is a commonly used drug to treat pain, inflammation, and fever. Many medical recommendations can be related to pain associated with uterine pains that accompany menstruation, a common system that many women face. In this project, we strive to understand how HeLa cells respond to the presence of Ibuprofen. HeLa cells, derived from Ms. Henrietta Lacks, are the world’s first human cell line.These cervical adenocarcinoma epithelial cells have laid the groundwork for many scientific achievements over the years. As a cell derived from the cervix, the opening of the uterus, we found it to be a model cell to complete these studies in. Here, we seeded HeLa cells and exposed them to various concentrations of Ibuprofen at a 48-hour time point. We were able to the effects of ibuprofen on cell health and this work builds a framework on future experiments and how ibuprofen can affect cell viability.
Keywords: Hela, Viability, Ibuprofen, Cell Culture,
Alvine Momo Azobou- Undergraduate Department of Natural Sciences
Anne Osano- PhD Department of Natural Sciences
Presentation ID: 17 Project Title: Metabolomic Approaches for the Analysis of Phytochemicals of Indigenous Leafy Vegatables of Kenya, Africa
Abstract An erosion of indigenous vegetables, traditional foods crops and agricultural production in Africa has dramatically changed the food system and agriculture focused on developing conventional cereal and horticultural crops. As a result, these foods became more popular and replaced many locally produced crops including indigenous vegetables. The once widely used, indigenous vegetables and food crops have been replaced with lower nutrient foods, with an increase in health-related problems. We hypothesize that the plant components of the selected indigenous vegetables are the key drivers of health benefits in traditional food system. In this research, our goal was to use metabolomics approaches to study the phytochemicals profiles of five selected different leafy vegetables from Kenya, Basella alba, Cucumis sativus, Vigna unguiculata, Amaranthus viridis, and Corchorus olitorius. The vegetables were collected from Kenya and air dried. We used the ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography, high resolution mass spectrometry (UHPLCHRMS, Thermo Scientific, Waltham, MA), for data acquisition and MS-DIAL software for data analysis. The separation was carried out on an Agilent Poroshell EC-C18 column with a flow rate of 0.6mL/min. Data collected using Xcalibur 198 4.1 (Themo Scientific, Waltham, MA). Data analysis was done using MS-Dial software. HPTLC, Camag was used to analyze flavonoids and tannins. The results from targeted metabolomics, showed the presence of flavonoids in Basella and Corchorus, tannins in all four vegetables except Vigna. Using untargeted metabolomics, 1269 metabolites were identified and 104 were matched with compound libraries. We here report the presence of a specific type of flavonoid called quercetin-3,4’-o-di-betaglucoside. Flavonoids health benefits are attributed to their anti-oxidative, antiinflammatory, antimutagenic and anti-carcinogenic properties coupled with capacity to modulate key cellular enzyme function. We therefore conclude that flavonoid in these indigenous vegetables that drive their health benefits. Our future work will focus on identification of the remaining compounds from the untargeted metabolomics approach.
Keywords: ytochemicals, Antioxidants, Bioactivities, Kenya
Session 3: Semester-based Undergraduate Research Institute (SURI) Research Presentations Thursday, April 22, 2021 12:00 PM- 1:30 PM
Sayeeda Jordan- Undergraduate Department of Language, Literature & Cultural Studies
Dr. SheneeseThompson Department of Language, Literature & Cultural Studies
Presentation ID: 26 Project Title: The Representation of Black Women in the U.S. Media Industry
Abstract This research projects takes a critical approach to exploring mediated representations of Black women in pop culture. It examines the conceptual limits of representations on Black women in US pop culture and media, and more specifically television, film, and music. The study also aims to critically analyze a couple of media artifacts to illustrate issues of representations of Black women in TV, film, and music. In doing so, this project strives not only to raise awareness on the impact of mediated representations of Black women on their perception in everyday life, but also attempts to provide “alternative ways” to promote a politics of self-definition for Black women, which celebrates Black women’s experiences through resilience and transformation.
Keywords: Black, Identity, Representation, Social Media
MichelleAnanym Dzeinse- Undergraduate Department of Natural Sciences
JacquelineSmith- Mentor Department of Natural Sciences
Vincent Osekwe- Undergraduate Department of Natural Sciences
Presentation ID: 25 Project Title: TRYPTOPHAN ANALOG SYNTHESIS & FLUORESCENCE Abstract Targeted drug delivery has the potential to reduce toxicity and improve efficacy. LAT 1 is an amino acid transporter that can be used to transport compounds into cells and even across a blood brain barrier (BBB). Imaging has been widely used to monitor brain activity using methods such as MRI and PET. The goal of this research is to use LAT1 as a target for drug delivery and imaging. Tryptophan is substrate for LAT1 which is also fluorescent. We plan to use tryptophan as a carrier to deliver drugs to LAT1 and enhance its fluorescence by attaching a known fluorophore, coumarin. Coumarin, primarily found in plants, is a poly-phenolic compound that emits strong fluorescence even at low concentrations. We measured the effect of water and DMSO on the fluorescence of tryptophan and its analog. There was a positive correlation between the intensity and the concentration of tryptophancoumarin (try-cou) in DMSO and water. Also try-cou showed a more red-shifted fluorescence than tryptophan in the same solvents. This proves how coumarin derivatives in tryptophan can enhance its fluorescence properties. For further goals, these results can be used by introducing tryptophan-coumarin on biological systems such as cells and ultimately tested on BBB models.
Keywords: Tryptophan, BBB, LAT1, fluorescence
Sudan Smith- Undergraduate Department of Communications
Dr. Uchenna Onuzulike Department of Communications
Leia Wedge- Undergraduate Department of Communications
Shakira Miles- Undergraduate Department of Communications
Presentation ID: 27 Project Title: College Students and Body Image: An Analysis of SelfPresentation and Comments Left by Instagram Followers
Abstract: Purpose: The purpose of this study is to analyze college students' Instagram pictures, the captions of the pictures, and the comments from Instagram followers within the context of body image. Theory: This study employs uses and gratifications in order to understand how the college students and their followers gravitate toward Instagram pictures and body image. The first assumption of the uses and gratifications theory suggests that people knowingly use media for particular purposes. Methods: This qualitative research utilizes textual analysis to uncover the themes and patterns of selected college student Instagram pictures, their captions, and audience comments within the context of body image. In addition, this study is supplemented with frequencies from qualitative analysis to capture words, decipher phrases, and illuminate emojis. Textual analysis is the best method for this study because it will capture comments, pictures, and the captions simultaneously. Hence, the audience comments, the pictures, and the captions will be analyzed within the context of body image. A total of 30 profiles were selected for this study. Then, three pictures were selected from each profile, making a total of 30 pictures. Findings: Preliminary findings indicate that the college students used Instagram for various reasons, including body image, wellness, friendship, and connections. Emojis and likes were used for expression of feelings toward the pictures and their captions. The findings show that the students use Instagram to fulfill their needs of showcasing their image as they gravitate toward positive comments from the followers
Keywords: College students, Instagram, body-image, analysis
Danae Stewart- Undergraduate Department of Management, Marketing, and Public Administration
Dr. Ella Carter- Associate Professor of Marketing Department of Management, Marketing, and Public Administration
Mariah Wade- Undergraduate Trinity Jordan- Undergraduate Presentation ID: 21 Project Title: Black Student Experiences in Minority vs. Minority Institutions
Abstract Understand the experience of black students and the obstacles they face that negatively time to graduation Compare HBCU to PWI
Keywords: black, student, graduation, hbcu, Pwi
Tiffany Cunningham- Undergraduate Department of Behavioral Sciences and Human Services
Kim Barnett- Associate Professor Department of Behavioral Sciences and Human Services
Presentation ID: 22 Project Title: Advancing the Demarginalization for Students of Color Abstract In this chapter, we present theoretical discussions about advancing the de-marginalization of African American students at Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) by bringing in insights from Afrocentric and symbolic-interaction perspectives. Here, we are especially interested to discuss de-marginalization related to certain intra-racial and intersecting class, gender and mental health issues emerging since Covid-19 and online learning. The ideas we present here are equally viable in student face-to-face and virtual learning environments. We begin by discussing what we mean by both marginalization and Afrocentric and symbolic-interaction theories. We then review relevant literature about the history of African American education since the American Civil War, including nineteenth and twentieth century reconstructions, Jim Crow, the rise of historical black colleges and institutions, the black student campus union and black power movements, and other relevant happenings in black American education. We review this history to observe not merely the accomplishments and obstacles that existed in the advance of education for African American students, but to theoretically examine how and why certain intra-racial and intersecting class, gender and mental health issues warrant our attention. Lastly, we present a discussion centered around ways Afrocentric and symbolic-interaction theories provide insight about advancing the education of African American students.
Keywords: Marginalization, demarginalization,
Clarissa Smith- Undergraduate Department of Social Work
Emory Perkins- Assistant Professor Department of Social Work
Anwar Rochee- Undergraduate Department of Communications
Presentation ID: 23 Project Title: A Comparative Investigation of the Risk-taking Behaviors Associated with the HIV Negative and Positive Status of African-American Women
Abstract Now entering its fourth decade, Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS) continues to present a public health crisis to the nation; indeed, to the entire world. The United States Census Bureau maintains that in 2010, Blacks/African-Americans account for 12.6% of the United States population but represent 42% of new HIV diagnoses. Centers for Disease Control (2018) maintains that African-American women have been identified as the fastest-growing segment at increased risk for HIV/AIDS infection, particularly those of childbearing ages. Of the 1.2 million people diagnosed with HIV in the U.S., 482,900 were AfricanAmerican.(CDC, 2018). Between 2014-2018, African-American women accounted for 57% of the total percentage of 19% of women with new HIV diagnosis. (CDC, 2018) This quantitative explanatory study is designed to investigate the risktaking behavior in the form of sexual practices associated with the HIV positive status among African-American women. The subject will include a random sample of 100 African-American women, ages 24 to 44, equally divided into two groups of 50 women. This probability sample of 100 African-American women will be selected through the use of random sampling. Data for this investigation will be obtained using self-assessment scales and questionnaires. Data will beanalyzed using the Window’s version of the Statistical Package for Social Science (27.0). The theoretical underpinning for this study will be cognitive-behavioral and cognitive dissonance theories. Findings from this investigation will contribute new empirical knowledge to the existing social work database; document the experiences of African-American women who engage in risky sexual behaviors
, and
allow service providers, educators, researchers, public health officials, policymakers, and African- American women to know the risk-taking behaviors associated with having an HIV positive or negative status.
Keywords: HIV/AIDS, risk-taking behaviors, African-American women,
Office of Research & Sponsored Programs Bowie State University orsp@bowiestate.edu