Relative Binding Affinity of Non-occupied and Single-ion-occupied Acetylcholinesterase with Acetylcholine

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Scott Hollingshaus and Dr. James P. Lewis, Physics and Astronomy Trans-membrane channels are the highway mechanisms of biological cells. Through these channels, cells transfer information in the form of ions and other molecules. These transferred materials are called permeating ions. It is well known that most channels work on the principles of size, shape, and […]

Catalytic Reactions for the Production of Biomarkers from the Biological Warfare Agent Anthrax (Dr.)

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Jason E. Hawkes and Dr. Milton L. Lee, Chemistry and Biochemsitry Bacillus anthracis, more commonly known as anthrax, poses a serious threat to the national security of the United States of America. In its weaponized form, anthrax spores are easily aerosolized, demonstrate long residence times in the atmosphere (typically variable for several days), and can […]

Optimization of Kidney Cancer Cell Assay Conditions

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Bryce Harbertson and Dr. Heidi Vollmer-Snarr, Chemistry and Biochemistry Photodynamic therapy involves the use of light-sensitive compounds that, upon irradiation, become lethal to cells. These light-sensitive compounds are referred to as photosensitizers. A class of compounds known as pyridinium bis-retinoids are being investigated as potential photosensitizers, and therefore, chemotherapeutic drugs (Figure 1). One of the […]

X-ray Photoelectron Spectroscopy to Examine Molecular Composition

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Amy Baker and Dr. Steve Turley Abstract The extreme ultraviolet (EUV) spectrum is becoming increasingly important. Its most promising applications include lithography for integrated circuits, space-based astronomy, and medical microscopes. Unfortunately, the optical constants of materials, particularly heavy metals, in this range are not well known. This work examines the molecular composition and oxidation rate […]

Photocycloaddition of Silyl-tethered Alkenes for Cyclobutanes

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David Feller and Dr. Steven A. Fleming, department of Chemistry and Biochemistry Cyclobutane rings occur in many natural products that show important medicinal properties (including sedatives, antiviral, and anti-tumor agents). The intrinsic physiological activities that cyclobutane rings display, draw the attention of synthetic chemists to elucidate total syntheses.1 Many natural products that incorporate chiral cyclobutane […]

Operation Export A Study of Small- to Mid-size Export Manufacturing Businesses in the Philippines

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Anthony J. Familia and Dr. Paul J. Fields, Statistics Market globalization gives developing countries a better opportunity to start successful export manufacturing operations than ever before. However, because virtually no research exists on export manufacturing companies in developing countries, many micro-entrepreneurs are unable to tap into these vast international markets. Consequently, potential export manufacturers typically […]

DETERMINING OPTICAL CONSTANTS FOR ThO2 THIN FILMS SPUTTERED UNDER DIFFERENT BIAS VOLTAGES FROM 1.2 TO 6.5 eV BY SPECTROSCOPIC ELLIPSOMETRY

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William Ray Evans and Dr. David Allred, Department of Physics and Astronomy The Extreme Ultraviolet (EUV), that portion of the spectrum with photon energies of ~30 to ~300 eV is a scientifically interesting part of the spectrum for many reasons. First of all, there are many applications for EUV optics. The desire to continue “Moore’s […]

High Temperature Vapor Cell for Calcium Absorption Spectroscopy

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Christopher Erickson and Dr. Dallin Durfee, Physics & Astronomy Department We have designed, built, and troubleshot a unique calcium vapor cell for use in the development of a dual-species optical frequency standard with stability on the order of one part in 10-16. This vapor cell’s unique design and high temperature allow for the creation of […]

A Study of Collisional Energy Transfer as a Function of Vibrational Frequency Using Isotopically Substituted Benzene Molecules

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Andrew Duffin and Dr. Eric Sevy, Chemistry and Biochemistry Gas phase atoms and molecules constantly exchange energy in collisions. These energy transfer events are the rate limiting processes in reactions that are important for understanding atmospheric and combustion chemistry. While a great deal is known about collisional energy transfer, there is no good theory for […]

Synthesizing Racemic and Optical Active 6-Methylsulfinylhexyl Isothiocyanate

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Bo Duan and Dr. Merritt Andrus, Chemistry and Biochemistry 6–methylsulfinylhexyl isothiocyanate (MS-ITC) is the active component of wasabi, Japanese horseradish. Wasabi plant (Wasabia Japonica), a member of the Cruciferae family, is native to Japan and is traditionally found growing in or by cold mountain streams. The root and stem of this plant has a fiery […]