Sisi Hon - Virtual Presentation

Characterization of Developmental Changes in Central Nervous System Histaminergic Neurons in Drosophila

Abstract
Neurotransmitters have been studied in the central nervous system (CNS) of D. melanogaster, which includes identifying when cells first synthesize the neurotransmitter during nervous system development. Histamine is a neurotransmitter that has not been studied as extensively as other biogenic amines with regard to cell number changes throughout CNS development. Identifying when cells develop the ability to synthesize histamine will enable a better understanding of changes that histaminergic cells undergo during development. An immunofluorescence whole-mount procedure was performed to detect histaminergic cells in intact CNS dissected from flies at 24 hr intervals throughout larval and pupal development. The specimens were examined using confocal microscopy to obtaining a 3-dimensional image of histaminergic cell locations and axonal projections. Results indicate a conservation of cell numbers in the larval stages followed by significant changes occurring during pupal development.

Hailee Cederquist - Virtual Poster

Love it or List it: Enclosure Alterations Affect Behavior of Canada Lynx at John Ball Zoo

Abstract
Environmental variables influence animal behavior, and routines of captive animals often alter when individuals are moved between zoos, their social group changed, or enclosure altered. In 2018, two Canada lynx were introduced to John Ball Zoo, then their exhibit subsequently modified in 2019. We used scan sampling with ZooMonitor to quantify behaviors and enclosure use of individuals every 30 sec in 30 minute bouts of sampling, comparing patterns in 2018 and 2019. Both cats used inconspicuous resting sites extensively, but the specific sites changed from 2018 to 2019. The male’s daily activities changed little, incorporating the same locomotion paths both years. The female was more active in 2019 than 2018, but sought resting sites above visitors both years. Overall, both cats sought sites hidden by vegetation in 2018, but adjusted to its removal in 2019. 

Helen Bahlbi - Virtual Poster

Synthesis and Structure-Activity Relationship Study of Novel Nitrodiphenylurea Antibiotics

Abstract
According to the World Health Organization, tuberculosis (TB) is the leading cause of death by infectious disease. Tuberculosis is caused by the bacteria Mycobacterium tuberculosis and occurs globally. Additionally, in 2017, TB was reported in all 50 states. Due to the scope of TB, strict observation of patients is required to ensure adherence to the current drug regimen. However, most reported cases are in developing countries where proper care is difficult. With the emergence of multidrug-resistant TB exhibiting resistance to current treatments, novel antibiotics are needed. Recently, our lab discovered a family of diphenyl ureas that exhibit antimicrobial activity against several bacterial strains, including Mycobacterium. Based on our lab’s previous results, we have synthesized several diphenyl urea derivatives to examine their structure-activity relationship. Herein, we report the synthesis of the diphenyl ureas with varying nitro positions, chain-lengths, and sites of variation.

• Evidence of Silurian Relative Sea Level Change in the Bisher Formation of Northeast Kentucky Jessalyn Gonzalez (left photo)
   
• Individual Differences in Learning Verbs Through Story Telling in Toddlers – Alexis Hansen (right photo)

• Microsatellite Genotyping of Grey Bats (Myotis grisescens) – Ann Baxter (left photo)
   
• Using ArcMap to Compile a Database of Non-Governmental Organizations in Haiti Working on Water Treatment, Sanitation, and Agricultural Projects. – Thuy-Thuong Nguyen (right photo)