University of Nevada, Reno/McNair Scholars Alumni!
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Scholar: Karl
Francois Serafico Agcaoili
Major: Accounting
Faculty Mentor: Dr. Robert Metts
Research Topic: “Feasibility of a 'Tax Shift'
in the United States: An Environmental Tax Reform”
Abstract: (Not Available)
Graduated With Baccalaureate Degree: Spring 2007
Masters or Doctoral Program Update: Graduated from George Washington University with a Master's of Public Administration in the spring of 2009.
Scholar: Henry Aguilar
Major: History / Honors Program
Faculty Mentor: Dr.Elizabeth Raymond
Research Topic: "Silas W. Mitchell’s rest cure: Malpractice or Physician Obliviousness, Yellow Wallpaper Poisoning "
Abstract: In 1887, Charlotte Perkins Gilman underwent treatment for neurasthenia (nervous exhaustion) by a prominent medical physician, Silas Weir Mitchell. According to personal sources Gilman did not benefit from treatment; her nervous symptoms continued. This incident sparked Gilman to write “The Yellow Wallpaper,” which has become a glorified piece of historic, fictional literature based on non-fictional events. This study examines the physical symptoms Charlotte Gilman states in “The Yellow Wallpaper” by contemporary nutrition/medical theory. Silas Weir Mitchell’s medical text: “Fat and Blood: an Essay on the Treatment of Certain Forms of Neurasthenia and Hysteria” is also respectively examined.
Graduated With Baccalaureate Degree: Spring 2009
Scholar: Chandler
Allen
Major: Medicine
Faculty Mentor: Dr. Brian Perrino
Research Topic:
"Determination of the G-protien Couples Pathway Involved in PGEZ Medicated
Relaxation of Murine Proximal Color Circular Smooth Muscle"
Abstract: Prostaglandin, PGE2, relaxes circular smooth muscle cells of the colon. The relaxation of vascular smooth muscle by PGE2 has been shown to be mediated by a G-protein, Gsa, and adenylate cyclase activation. This relaxation mediated by PGE2 has not yet been shown directly to be mediated by adenylate cyclase activation. The main question to be addressed is to determine whether PGE2 relaxes colonic smooth muscles by activating adenylate cyclase. The adenylate cyclase inhibitor SQ22536 will be used to determine whether adenylate cyclase activation is involved in PGE2 mediated relaxation of proximal colon circular smooth muscle contractile activity. CD-1 and CF-1 adult mice will be euthanized according to University of Nevada, Reno protocol, and proximal colon tissue will be surgically removed. After the mucosa and submucosa layers are removed, the tissue will be rolled to isolate the circular smooth muscle contractions. The tissues will be hung in a Krebs solution on a Fort 10 isometric strain gauge. The tissues will equilibrate and then be exposed to various solutions. The tissue contractions will be recorded and analyzed throughout the various cycles.
Graduated With Baccalaureate Degree: Fall
2006
Scholar: Carol
Bishop
Major: Conservation Biology
Faculty Mentor: Dr. Christopher J. Lortie
Research Topic: “Using Spatial Pattern Analyses
to Test for Shrub-Shrub Interactions within Atriplex Confertifolia”
Abstract: Atriplex confertifolia or shadscale is an
important shrub in salt desert areas of the Great Basin. There is recent evidence
of extensive die-off, and many possible causes have been investigated. Previous
research has not investigated whether there are shrub-shrub interactions that
are further modifying its abundance and limiting its recruitment. By studying
shadscale’s spatial relationships using size specific analyses, we will
be able to infer if these relationships are influencing its life cycle. Both
grid and transect measurements were taken in four study sites: two in unburnt
areas and two in burnt areas. All size classes of shrubs were significantly
clumped under both fire histories. Hence, there is no evidence of negative
shrub-shrub interactions detected using spatial analyses tested at multiple
scales. Interestingly, the strong spatial aggregation of shadscale detected
at all scales suggests positive interactions may be occurring and this may
be particularly important in burnt areas.
Graduated With Baccalaureate Degree: Spring 2006
Masters or Doctoral Program Update: Earned a Master's Degree in Research & Applied Economics at the University of Nevada, Reno in summer 2008.
Scholar: Abdulrahman Busse
Major: Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Faculty Mentor: Dr. John Cushman
Research Topic: “Mechanisms Of The Evolutionary Origins Of Crassulacean Acid Metabolism In Tropical Orchids”
Abstract: TBA
New Scholar: Spring 2008
Graduating With Baccalaureate Degree: May 2010
Scholar: Amy
Carl
Major: Wildlife Ecology & Conservation
Faculty Mentor: Dr. Sudeep Chandra & Chris
Jannusch
Research Topic: "Characterizing
Temporal and Spatial Variability In Water Chemistry and Invertebrate Community
Assemblage Within And Among Three Great Basin Sub-montane Streams"
Abstract: Benthic macroinvertebrate (BMI) communities
and water chemistry data were collected at sites above and below two beaver
impoundments in Big Creek, in the Toiyabe Mountain Range of central Nevada. The
purpose of this research was to characterize the impact of geomorphologic disturbances
created by beaver impoundments on stream health. Stream health was assessed
by estimating the level of organic pollutants in reaches of Big Creek above
and below beaver impoundments using Hilsenhoff’s Family Biotic Index (FBI).
Using this index family level invertebrate taxa are assigned tolerance values
from 0 to 10 (intolerant to tolerant). Healthy streams are generally comprised
of intolerant assemblages of invertebrates. FBI data revealed slightly impaired
stream condition downstream of beaver impoundments (at α =0.10). In addition
site specific diversity, dominance values, and distribution of functional feeding
groups suggests slightly impaired stream health downstream of beaver impoundments.
The findings of this research appear to be due to the greater abundance of pollution
intolerant species at upstream sites compared to downstream sites rather than
the presence of pollution tolerant species downstream of impoundments.
Graduated With Baccalaureate Degree: Fall 2007
Scholar: Mary
Czerwinsky
Major: Education
Faculty Mentor: Dr. Margaret Ferrara
Research Topic: “Resiliency in Native Americans:
A Case Study”
Abstract:
Native Americans have the highest dropout rate of any ethnic or racial
group in the United States, twice that of the national average. This
is a case study on a Native American college students and a closer look at
educational resiliency in the Native American community. The case told through
the eyes of a Native American college student investigated the following question:
1. What made this student more resilient than his counter parts?
2. Is resiliency promoted in Native Americans the same way that it is promoted
in all students? 3. What can instructors do to better support Native Americans
on their educational path? The study will conclude with a comparison to data
that are currently available on Native American resiliency and higher education.
Graduated With Baccalaureate Degree: Spring 2005
Masters or Doctoral Program
Update: Accepted into a Master's Program in Literacy Studies at the
University of Nevada, Reno in the spring of 2008.
Scholar: Tomiya
Eastlin
Major: Psychology
Faculty Mentor: Dr. Christopher Mark Wessinger
Research Topic: "Priming in Advertising: Understanding
How Multiple Presentations of Vendor Icons Influence Our Decisions"
Abstract: Using a priming paradigm and select Food (FF) and Clothing-Apparel (CA) vendor icons (from internet) we are investigating how multiple presentations of these images influence our decisions. People were slower to identify an icon as a fast-food (or sports-apparel) vendor if the vendors were the same, and faster if the vendors were different. This is counter-intuitive and may be a result of the choice of the vendors, the icons, or the presentation rate, or it may be a result of increased cognitive or perceptual load resulting from over-activation of the icons.
Graduated With Baccalaureate Degree: Spring 2008
Scholar: Julisa Edwards
Major: Anthropology & English
Faculty Mentor: Dr. G. Richard Scott
Research Topic: "An odontometric analysis of living Southwest Indian populations"
Abstract: The American Southwest is characterized by a diverse array of Native American populations who fall within several different language families (Uto-Aztecan, Hokan, Na-Dene, Zuni, Keresan, and Tanoan). This survey of Southwest Native American tooth size will determine whether tooth size covaries with language groups. One subsidiary problem is to determine if there is a difference in tooth size between Na-Dene (Apache, Navajo) and Amerind (Uto-Aztecan) groups that has been indicated by other lines of biological evidence. Following a survey of the literature on dental anthropology and Southwest Indian biology, culture, and prehistory, research will focus on measuring dental cast samples from three groups in the Southwest (Hopi, Pima, Navajo). Statistical analyses will determine if there are significant tooth size differences among the selected Southwest groups and evaluate the pattern of intergroup relationships based on odontometric data.
New Scholar: Fall 2007
Graduated With Baccalaureate Degree: Spring 2009
Masters or Doctoral Program Update: Accepted into a PhD Program at Berkeley for fall 2009.
Scholar: Consuelo Fajardo-Mendoza
Major: Psychology
Faculty Mentor: Dr. Alan
Fruzzetti
Research Topic:“College
Adjustment in First-Year
Students Based on Parental Education and Perceived
Parental Support”
Abstract: (Not Available)
Graduated With Baccalaureate Degree: Fall 2005
Scholar: Alex
Farkas
Major: Electrical Engineering
Faculty Mentor: Dr. Timothy Darling
Research Topic: "The
Influence of Electrical Charge on the Mechanical Properties of Metals "
Abstract: This experiment will attempt to investigate the effect of free charging a spherical conductor through changes in its natural vibration frequencies. In pulsed power experiments at the Nevada Terawatt Facility, wires achieve a state of high charge over the course of a few nanoseconds. In this timeframe, it is unclear what state transitions the wires undergo, if any. This experiment may shed light on this process. The measurement technique employed in this experiment will be resonant ultrasound spectroscopy (RUS). RUS is capable of detecting minute changes in resonant frequency, which are a function of elastic constants, and influenced by the distance and restorative force between adjacent atoms. As the conductor is charged, its atomic structure will undergo an expansive effect, due to electrostatic forces. This expansion will change the resonant frequencies. Because charges reside at the surface of the conductor, it is expected that Rayleigh waves will be affected more dramatically than normal vibrational modes. The results of this experiment suggest that charging the conductor has an effect on the third order elastic constants of the system. Additionally, distinct differences between the response of the conductor at high frequencies and low frequencies were observed.
Graduated With Baccalaureate Degree: Spring 2008
Masters or Doctoral Program Update: Accepted into a Master's Program in Electrical Engineering at the University of California, San Diego in the fall of 2008.
Scholar: LaKesha Farmer
Major: Biology
Faculty Mentor: Dr. Svetlana Todorova
Research Topic: “Release Of Soluble Nucleotidases By The Sympathetic Nerves Of The Rabbit Vas Deferens: Modulation By Sodium Orthovanadate”
Abstract: The purpose of this study was to determine whether sodium orthovanadate interferes with the activity or the release of soluble ATPases from the sympathetically innervated rabbit vas deferens. Isolated rabbit vas deferens was maintained under superfusion and the release of soluble enzyme was evoked by the application of electrical field stimulation (EFS). ATPase activity of the collected enzyme samples was tested using etheno-ATP as substrate and the metabolic products of the reaction were quantified by HPLC with fluorescent detection. Our data demonstrate that EFS increases the release of soluble enzyme by five fold. ATP and ADP were metabolized, while AMP was not. Sodium orthovanadate (SOV) at 1mM inhibited the ATPase activity by 14.7+3.7% and the ADPase activity by 8.4+2.7%. On the other hand, when applied to the solution superfusing the rabbit vas deferens SOV (1mM) significantly increased (p<0.0001, ANOVA) the activity of the collected samples suggesting that the release of enzyme was increased. In conclusion, SOV could facilitate the release of soluble ATPases by the sympathetic nerves of the rabbit vas deferens, while slightly inhibiting their enzymatic activity.
Graduated With Baccalaureate Degree: spring 2009
Scholar: Nalleli
Herrera
Major: Civil Engineering
Faculty Mentor: Dr. Zong Tian
Research Topic: “Safety Implications and Driver’s
Understanding of Special Time-of-Day Protected/Permitted Left-Turn
Signal Display in Las Vegas”
Abstract:
A comprehensive assessment of the special time-of-day protected/permitted
left-turn control display being used in Las Vegas was performed considering
drivers’ understanding and safety implications. Driver understanding
was assessed through an in class survey and safety implications that may be
presented by the display were assessed through the collection of onsite traffic
data and crash data. The study results indicate that the time-of-day
display being used in Las Vegas is well understood by drivers.
Also, there was inconclusive data to indicate that the safety implications
presented by the Las Vegas display are cause for concerns.
Graduated With Baccalaureate Degree: Fall 2007
Masters or Doctoral Program Update: Earned a Master's Degree in Civil Engineering at UNR in the spring of 2009.
Scholar: Gretchen Hill
Major: Geography
Faculty Mentor: Dr. Paul Starrs & Dr. Sandra Ott
Research Topic: "Basques’ Attachment to Place in Nevada and the Basque Country"
Abstract: Research in the French Basque country reveals that rural people have a strong sense of attachment to place which figures prominently in the process of self-identification (Ott 2008). I propose to explore “attachment to place” within the context of rural Basque Americans in Nevada and wish to find out whether rural Basques who have a strong sense of ethnic pride and an interest in their Basque heritage have a sense of attachment to place that includes both Nevadan and Old World spaces.
Graduated With Baccalaureate Degree: Spring 2009
Masters or Doctoral Program Update: Accepted into a Master’s Program in Geography at the University of Oregon in fall 2009.
Scholar: David Hillis
Major: Civil
Engineering/Honors Program
Faculty Mentor: Dr. Saiid Saiidi, Professor
Research Topic: "Seismic Modeling of Bridge Components
with Conventional and Innovative Design"
Abstract: Shape Memory Alloy’s (SMA’s) form a group of metals that display two distinguishing characteristics, pseudo-elasticity and shape memory effect. There are many applications of these metals ranging from eyeglass frames that will return to their original shape after being bent to orthodontic wires. However, consider utilizing this material in a bridge column located in an earthquake prone region of the country. The result would be a bridge that could withstand large deformations and could potentially return to near its original position. The focus of this research was to explore the results of SMA being placed in the plastic hinge region of a reinforced concrete column to reduce the residual displacement due to seismic loading. Shake table tests have already shown that SMA bars reduce permanent column displacements. Computer modeling is being used to simulate a seismic test on a single column bent with and without SMA in the plastic hinge region to determine if the SMA bars can also reduce the permanent displacement when the earthquake load is impulsive, a feature of earthquakes in the vicinity of faults. Performance will be evaluated based on the position of the top of the column after various seismic ground motions. The same near-fault ground motion has been used in all simulations, increasing in magnification for eleven consecutive runs. The computer modeling is conducted using the Open System for Earthquake Engineering Simulation (OpenSees). OpenSees was chosen for its advanced modeling of nonlinear systems. The poster will present a summary of the study and the results obtained thus far.
Graduated With Baccalaureate Degree: Fall 2007
Masters or Doctoral Program Update: Accepted into a Doctoral Program in Civil Engineering at the University of Nevada, Reno in the spring of 2008.
Scholar: Marti
Howell
Major: Journalism
Faculty Mentor: Dr. Doncia Mensing
Research Topic: “Letters to the Editor: Serial
Killers and Their Correspondence to Newspaper Editors and Staff”
Abstract:
As journalists are attracted to stories of serial murder, so are
some serial killers compelled to communicate with the media. This study will
examine cases of newspapers in receipt of materials from alleged serial murderers.
Using a qualitative approach to individual case studies, this paper will include
cases spanning four decades. This paper will provide background information
on standard editorial policy and will note ethics theory pertaining to the
receipt of materials sent to editors of American newspapers. This paper will
look at publication decisions in each of the case studies and attempt to illustrate
factors that dictate those decisions.
Graduated With Baccalaureate Degree: Fall 2004
Masters or Doctoral Program Update: Graduated with at Master's Degree in Journalism from the University of Nevada, Reno in Spring 2007. Accepted into Syracuse University for a Doctoral Program in Journalism in the fall of 2007.
Scholar: Ching-Chu Huang
Major: Business
Faculty Mentor: Dr. Judy Strauss
Research Topic: “The Beliefs, Practices, and
Perceived Solutions Concerning Academic Dishonesty Among Business Students
at a Middle Sized University”
Abstract: While academic dishonesty is a widespread
problem, past research has indicated that the problem is more severe in business
schools and may cause an adverse impact on the future of business. This study
will focus on a comprehensive study of academic dishonesty among business
students concentrating on their beliefs, reasons, practices, and perceived
solutions. To obtain special insights on issues concerning academic dishonesty
among business students, ten in-depth interviews were conducted, and a questionnaire
drawn from the interviews and the literature was administrated to 223 students
in 11 undergraduate business classes at a middle sized university. Results
were analyzed by using SPSS application to show business students’ views
toward academic misconduct along with their rating, their level of practice
in such misconduct, and their reason for it. In addition to quantitative questions,
the survey include three qualitative questions asking what instructors, administrators,
and students can do to minimize academic dishonesty.
Graduated With Baccalaureate Degree: Spring 2005
Masters or Doctoral Program Update: Graduated with a Master's of Business Administration from the University of Nevada, Reno in the Spring of 2007. Continuing on at the University of Nevada, Reno in the Spring of 2008 to obtain a Master's of Science in Finance.
Scholar: Conrad Kiyoshi
Major: Biology
Faculty Mentor: Dr. Patricia Berninsone
Research Topic: "The Role of the Protein Calnexin in the Secretory Pathway of Caenorhabditis elegans: an RNAi Approach"
Abstract: This study will attempt to discern the functional necessity of the protein chaperone calnexin in Caenorhabditis elegans, in relation to the secretory pathway. In C.elegans, mutations of calnexin, and its homologue calreticulin, do not seem essential as the organisms and their progeny are viable in unstressed conditions. The study will introduce cell stress, such as removing the p24 gene which is involved in protein trafficking, by RNAi feeding to determine if there is some redundancy in function between the two chaperones, or if calnexin has a novel function in protein selection and trafficking.
Graduated With Baccalaureate Degree: Spring 2008
Masters or Doctoral Program Update: Accepted into a Master’s Program in Biology at the University of Nevada, Reno in fall 2008.
Scholar: Steven La Fleur
Major: Mathematics
Faculty Mentor: Dr. Brendon Nagle
Research Topic: “Introduction to the Probabilistic
Method in Discrete Mathematics”
Abstract:
Combinatorics, Graph Theory and Number Theory are littered with examples
of problems that cannot be solved using ordinary analysis techniques. In these
situations, probabilistic methods can be used to prove these elusive theorems.
This study will investigate random arguments of several mathematical theorems
including Ramsey Theory and prime number counting. To study these arguments,
discrete expectation and variance will be examined. Expectation determines
what should happen in a given random environment. We use variance with certain
inequalities such as the accordance with the expectation in general. The Cherinov
Inequality will also be discussed; however, its use is limited due to the
binomial distribution constraint.
Graduated With Baccalaureate Degree: Spring 2006
Masters or Doctoral Program Update: Graduated with a Master's Degree in Mathematics at the University of Nevada, Reno in the spring of 2008. Accepted into a Doctoral Program in Mathematics at Emory University in the fall of 2008.
Scholar: Mark Lemos
Major: Biotechnology
Faculty Mentor: Dr. John Cushman
Research Topic: "Survey of Halophytic Micoalgae as Potential Feedstocks for Biofuel Production"
Abstract: Alternative, nonfood oil feedstocks are needed to supply the exponential growth of the U.S. biodiesel industry, which has grown more than 900% in the last decade to produce an estimated 450 million gallons in 2007. Current biodiesel facility production is at 0.2% of estimated production capacity. Halophytic microalgae hold potential to break the link between traditional biodiesel produced from terrestrial crops like soybeans, for various reasons. Halophytic microalgae are theoretically more productive than terrestrial oil seed crop feedstock, can be grown on marginal lands with brackish or saline water unsuitable for traditional agriculture, can leverage geothermal and solar resources, and can provide widespread potential for sequestration of CO2 from biomass, coal, and gas-fired power plants. The goal of this research is to survey strains of halophytic microalgae as possible feedstocks for biofuel
New Scholar: Fall 2007
Graduated With Baccalaureate Degree: Spring 2009
Scholar: Marvice Marcus
Major: Psychology
Faculty Mentor: Dr. William O'Donohue
Research Topic: Quality Improvement of Therapeutic Sessions for Victims of Sexual Assault
Abstract (1/5/09): Human interaction is an activity that fosters well-being in one’s life. This is a factor that can be generalized across the board; human-to-human interaction is essential for individuals to thrive. The ability to understand human-to-human interaction is key to how people form relationships. More importantly, the way in which interpersonal relationships enhance or detract from one’s life is the dimension that needs to be examined. Taking into consideration the importance of relationships, it is necessary to examine the way some individuals engage in deviant behavior, crossing the lines of what is “acceptable” and/or “normal” behavior. Social relationships possess the ability to have either a positive or negative impact on a person’s life. Therefore, a good question to ask is how do people overcome the negative impact a bad relationship can have on their lives? In the life changing case of sexual assault, a victim must make the difficult decision to seek treatment for their symptoms, a period in which he/she may feel as if they have little choice concerning the treatment delivery. The standard of psychotherapy delivery is a weekly, individual one-hour session, though little research has indicated that this is the best treatment modality for all clients. Similarly, few studies have examined what form of treatment clients would most prefer, if a choice was available to them (i.e., self-help books, group therapy, couples therapy, etc.). Currently, clients seen at the Victims of Crime Treatment Center, located on the University of Nevada, Reno’s campus, typically receive weekly, individual therapy. A questionnaire was developed to assess victims’ satisfaction level and preferences regarding their individual treatment. As a result of this study, the Victims of Crime Treatment Center will be able to make imperative improvements to the services provided to victims. Overall, as a result of this study, therapists will gain some insight on how exactly mental health professionals and researchers can provide optimal services to victims of sexual assault.
New Scholar: Fall 2007
Graduated With Baccalaureate Degree: Spring 2009
Scholar: Adriana
Marin-Herrera
Major: Biology
Faculty Mentor: Dr. Peter Brussard
Research Topic: “Diurnal Butterfly Inventory
at Monte Alto Natural Reserve, Costa Rica”
Abstract:
This research study involves traveling to Monte Alto Natural Reserve
in Costa Rica to do an inventory of diurnal butterflies within a
period of 16 days. This reserve did an inventory during the dry season of
2002 and found 91 species of butterflies. The objective of this research study
was to see how many of those species were still there and if any new species
would be found. Butterflies were captured using a net and/or by taking digital
pictures. Thirty-nine species were found, including twenty-one new species
that had not been previously recorded. This study will help the Monte Alto
Natural Reserve shape its future conservation plans.
Graduated With Baccalaureate Degree: Fall 2005
Masters or Doctoral Program Update: Earned a Master's Degree in Secondary Education at the University of Nevada, Reno in the fall of 2009. She was accepted into the Enviromental Sciences PhD Program at the University of Nevada, Reno for spring 2010.
Scholar: Melissa
McGovern
Major: Education
Faculty Mentor: Dr. Stephen Rock
Research Topic: "Perceptions of Special Education
Teachers"
Abstract: (Not Available)
Graduated With Baccalaureate Degree: Spring 2006
Masters or Doctoral Program Update: Accepted into a Master's Program in Human Development & Family Studies at the University of Nevada, Reno in the fall of 2006.
Scholar: Mebrat
Mebrahtu
Major: Biology
Faculty Mentor: Dr. Grant Mastick
Research Topic: “Netrin
Regulates Longitudinal Axon Guidance”
Abstract: The growth of axons to their target is believed to be guided by the diffusible chemotropic factors produced by target cells. There are two types of axonal growth, longitudinal and commissural. Commissural axons grow towards the midline and cross the midline to connecting the two sides of the Central Nervous System (CNS). Commissural axons have been studied extensively and these studies have led to the discovery of numerous essential guidance cues, and to the understandings of their mechanism at a cellular and molecular level. On the other hand, the second type of axon is the longitudinal axons that grows longitudinally towards the anterior brain or posterior spinal cord, eventually connects areas within the CNS. The majority of long axons projections in the CNS are forms of longitudinal axons. However, when it comes to the guidance mechanism, much less is known about longitudinal axon pathways. One of the most known cues or protein in the field of axon guidance is Netrin. Previous studies revealed Netrin-1 and Netrin-2 have out growth-promoting activity for commissural axons. To investigate the role of Netrin in longitudinal axon guidance we performed chick embryo electroporation and antibody labeling. Our study shows that Netrin is involved in the guidance of the first longitudinal tracts of the brain.
Graduated With Baccalaureate Degree: Spring 2007
Masters or Doctoral Program Update: Accepted into a Pharmacology Program at Oregon State University in the fall of 2007.
Scholar: Olga Mesina
Major: Psychology
Faculty Mentor: Dr. Alan Fruzzetti
Research Topic: “Effects of Acculturation and
Time on Family Bonding in Mexican-American
Families”
Abstract:
This study intends to add to the current body of knowledge on Mexican-Americans,
regarding the most recent immigrants and second-generation immigrants, in
the Reno-Sparks area. This study addresses three major questions dealing with
the family’s cohesion, length of time in the United States, and finally,
parenting style. The first hypothesis is how do recent immigrant Mexican-American
families differ from second-generation families on family structure and cohesion?
The second hypothesis of this study postulates that families with more recent
immigration to the United States from Mexico will report a higher cohesion
than second-generation families. Lastly, the study hypothesizes that recent
immigrant families may report a greater authoritarian family structure than
in second-generation families.
Graduated With Baccalaureate Degree: Fall
2005
Masters or Doctoral Program
Update: Graduated with a Master's Degree in Counseling
and Educational Psychology from the
University of Nevada, Reno in the spring of 2008.
Scholar: Aaron
Modica
Major: Sociology
Faculty Mentor: Dr. Johnson W. Makoba
Research Topic: “Deindustrialization and the Outsourcing
of American Jobs”
Abstract:
While U.S. blue-collar manufacturing jobs continue to be sent overseas,
the outsourcing of white-collar jobs has begun to draw concerns from professionals
and politicians alike. This paper argues that the recent outsourcing trend
of U.S. service sector jobs in fields such as telecommunications and data
processing, while qualitatively different from deindustrialization and the
export of manufacturing jobs, is fundamentally similar in that it is a consequence
of the search for cheaper labor and a more favorable investment climate overseas.
This paper provides a brief discussion of the different approaches to understanding
and explaining outsourcing and its relation to deindustrialization, a historical
background of deindustrialization and the export of jobs, a discussion of
current outsourcing of service jobs, and finally looks at the role of the
state in protecting outsourcing practices by large U.S. Transnational Corporations.
Graduated With Baccalaureate Degree: Summer 2004
Masters or Doctoral Program Update: Graduated with a Master's Degree in Sociology from the University of Nevada, Reno in the spring of 2007.
Scholar: Amanda
Morrissey
Major: Speech Pathology
Faculty Mentor: Dr. Ann Tyler
Research Topic: “Speech and Language Goal Attack
Strategies Follow-Up Study”
Abstract:
The purpose of the Speech and Language Goal Attack Strategies Follow-Up
Study is to perform follow-up assessment of speech, language, and literacy
skills in children who participated in an early intervention study as preschoolers
with speech and language delays. This will allow determination of present
levels of performance, as well as preschool levels of performance that predict
later language and literacy performance. With respect to clinical usefulness,
this study should help to identify early predictors of later performance in
children who have both speech and language learning difficulties.
Graduated With Baccalaureate Degree: Spring 2006
Masters or Doctoral Program Update: Graduated with a Master's Degree in Speech Pathology from the University of Nevada, Reno in the spring of 2008.
Scholar: Stephanie Orozco
Major: International Affairs & Spanish
Faculty Mentors: Dr. Daniel Perez & Dr. Emma Sepulveda Pulvirenti
Research Topic: "Language, Politics, and the Women of Juárez"
Abstract: The term femicide refers to the idea of women who are killed because they are women. For almost two decades, the Mexican town of Ciudad Juárez, in Chihuahua, Mexico, has been known for its increasing number of missing women. Their bodies have later been found mutilated, raped, stabbed and murdered. A variety of theories that pertain to this subject claim to have found the reason for these acts of femicide. These theories include the theory of machismo and the patriarchic home, drug trafficking, women trafficking, organ trafficking, etc. Within the pages and dialogue of films, articles, websites, books, etc, there are terms that are used to identify femicide. These terms politically define, in the global sphere, how each nation-state identifies femicide. Some of these terms include muertas/dead, asesinadas/assassinate, and desaparecidas/disappeared. Each of these words is different in meaning and in definition both in Spanish and in English. In this study I will compare and analyze the use of the term “femicide” and other words, as mentioned above, to demonstrate the role that language plays in framing identity politics – with respect to the women of Juarez. The cultural texts used are, The Daughters of Juárez written by Teresa Rodriguez, a Think film, Bordertown, directed and written by Gregory Nava, and Desert Blood-The Juárez Murders written by Alicia Gaspar de Alba. It is difficult to determine the causes of femicide; however, these women are found dead/muertas and are brutally murdered. They have not died because of natural causes, disease or accidental death. They do not disappear without a trace; they are not assassinated, simply murdered.
New Scholar: Spring 2008
Graduated With Baccalaureate Degree: Spring 2009
Masters or Doctoral Program Update: Accepted into the Master’s Program at the University of Nevada, Reno in the fall of 2009.
Scholar: David M. Pena-Guzman
Major: Women's Studies
Faculty Mentors: Rosemary Dixon, M.Phil.
Research Topic: “Remembering the Soldaderas: Subalternity and Feminism in the Mexican Revolution”
Abstract: The historiography of the Mexican Revolution has been characterized by a blatant disregard for the ways in which women soldiers (soldaderas) influenced the course of the movement and the success of the revolution. This paper uses post-colonial philosophy (especially theories of the subaltern) and feminist critiques of history to provide an account of the highly political space that soldaderas occupied in the Mexican public sphere from 1910 to 1917. Viewing soldaderas as a subaltern community exposes their complex consciousness and rebellious identities while challenging modern nationalist representations of women soldiers as embodied symbols of the national. Such an exercise is essential not only to analyze how women’s participation in the revolution was conditioned by their positionality as female peasants, but also to expose the ways in which women who were active in the creation of the nation-state were subsequently excluded from political representation by the male-dominated government that emerged after the revolution.
New Scholar: Fall 2008
Graduated With Baccalaureate Degree: Spring 2009
Masters or Doctoral Program Update: Accepted into a Master’s Program at Emory University in Georgia for fall 2009.
Scholar: Patricia Piedad Segura
Major: Chemistry
Faculty Mentor: Dr. Leonard Weinberg & Dr. Thomas Bell
Research Topic: "The Political Implication when Chemical Warfare is Used or Threatened to be Used for Nonwarfare Purposes"
Abstract: This thesis proposes the analyses of the political implications when chemicals are used as conventional weapons (cW) and as weapons of mass destruction (WMD). (It will not study biological or nuclear weapons). This thesis has two main components of study. The first component is the analysis of instances in which Chemical Weapons (CW) were used or threatened to be used and the analysis of instances in which countries have used chemicals as countermeasure of defense. The second component is the study of the chemicals that are used as weapons. It will cover design and synthesis of these chemicals and a careful study of the realistic conditions to spread these chemicals.
Graduated With Baccalaureate Degree: Spring 2009
Scholar: Diego
Pulido
Major: Psychology
Faculty Mentor: Dr.
Michael Webster
Research Topic: “Anxiety
and the Perception of Facial Expressions ”
Abstract: Previous research involving face perception indicates that there are special mechanisms for coding faces in our brain. This research project examined the level of trait anxiety of the participants and their classification of anger and fearful facial expressions. It is predicted that when confronted with an ambiguous face composed of two emotions (angry/happy or fear/happy) the more anxious the participant is, the more that he/she will judge an ambiguous face differently to a low-anxiety participant.
Graduated With Baccalaureate Degree: Spring 2005
Masters or Doctoral Program
Update: Accepted into a Master's Program in Human Computer
Interaction at Indiana University- Purdue University Indianapolis in the fall
of 2006.
Scholar: Mark
Rincon
Major: Geography
Faculty Mentor: Dr. Kate Berry
Research Topic: "The History of Irrigating the
Kings River Valley, Nevada using Geographic Information Systems (GIS)"
Abstract: The goal of this research project is to evaluate the history and geography of water usage and water rights in the Kings River Valley during the 20th century. The Kings River Valley is located northwest of Winnemucca, Nevada and is primarily in Humboldt County. Before the 1950’s, the Kings River Valley was mainly a sheep and cattle ranching area, though this has changed. More specifically since 1956 ranchers have developed irrigated croplands within the valley. In this project Geographic Information Systems (GIS) is developed to analyze change over time in water usage and water rights. This paper will describe how the GIS is developed through usage of different layers on digital terrain, springs, rivers, wells, water rights and patterns of water use. This paper will conclude with a discussion about approaches using GIS for water management and more specifically suggest further avenues for research within the Kings River Valley.
Graduated With Baccalaureate Degree: Fall 2007
Masters or Doctoral Program Update: Accepted into a Master's Program in Geography and Planning at California State University, Chico for the fall of 2008.
Scholar: Carina Rivera
Major: Psychology
Faculty Mentor: Dr. Alan Fruzzetti
Research Topic: "Identifying Family Factors Associated with Social-Emotional Skills"
Abstract: Many factors affect social-emotional development. This study will measure the correlation between family factors and children’s social-emotional skills. The predicting factors of social-emotional skills are family demographics, parental distress, parental marital satisfaction, and marital status. One parent and a teacher of 30 to 40 three to six year old children recruited from local preschools will participate in questionnaires to assess this.
Graduated With Baccalaureate Degree: Spring 2008
Masters or Doctoral Program Update: Accepted as a “grad special” at the University of Nevada, Reno in fall 2009.
Scholar: Ashley
Rolfe
Major: Wildlife Ecology & Conservation
Faculty Mentor: Dr. Stephen Jenkins
Research Topic: "The Influence of Olfactory Cues
on the Seed-Harvesting Behavior of Merriam's Kangaroo Rats (Dipodomys merriami)"
Abstract: Due to low resource availability and variable
weather conditions in desert ecosystems, many organisms alter their foraging
behavior to compensate for the decrease in resource abundance. Desert rodents
participate in reciprocal pilfering behavior of caches which affects the food
availability for and survival of certain individuals. This study investigated
the pilfering behavior of Merriam’s kangaroo rats (Dipodomys merriami)
as a function of olfactory cues on seeds. Six scenting and six harvesting
individuals were paired resulting in 36 replications to test the preference
of scented versus unscented seeds when foraging. There was significant evidence
of seed preference for eating unscented over scented seeds by D. merriami.
However there was no strong evidence of preference by D. merriami when
re-caching seeds; even though there was some individual variation in seed
preference in response to the scent of different caching individuals.
Graduated With Baccalaureate Degree with high distinction: Summer 2008
Masters or Doctoral Program Update: Accepted into a Master's Program in Biology at Eastern Michigan University for fall of 2008.
Scholar: Leticia
Rodriguez
Major: Biochemistry
Faculty Mentor: Dr. John Cushman
Research Topic: “Mechanisms Of The Evolutionary
Origins Of Crassulacean Acid Metabolism In Tropical Orchids”
Abstract: Neotropical orchids have adjusted to the environment in order to prevent water loss by evolving a photosynthetic pathway to help cope with the carbon uptake and water loss. This photosynthetic pathway is termed crassulacean acid metabolism (CAM). The metabolic reactions required for CAM in plants are well understood, but the evolution of this pathway remains uncharacterized. This research focuses on the understanding of the evolutionary mechanisms of CAM within neotropical orchids by developing molecular markers for tracing CAM evolution. I focused on the phosphoenolpyruvate carboxylase (PEPC) gene family because it is widely conserved in plants, and specific members of the family are differentially expressed in plants performing CAM. PEPC was used to trace the evolutionary progression from C3, weak CAM, to strong CAM. Based on stable carbon isotope, night titratable acidity, and leaf thickness measurements, orchid species were identified as either CAM, weak CAM, or C3. Sequence analysis of DNA obtained from CAM species Oncidium ampliatum, Oncidium nanum, Oncidium carthagenense, and Rossioglossum insleyi indicated that three different PEPC isoforms were present in each species. Based upon sequence alignments and relative frequency of sampled cDNA clones, isoforms with the highest relative frequencies appeared to be related to other known CAM specific PEPC isoforms present in the National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI) database. The other isoforms present in each orchid species were found to have high homology to C3 PEPC isoforms. A phylogenetic tree of nucleotide sequences resulted in the grouping of two distinct groups one of Ppc1, the CAM specific isoform, and the other Ppc2 and Ppc3. Understanding the molecular mechanism responsible for CAM expression will be important to our understanding of species survival in the face of current global climate change and of arid land area expansion worldwide.
Graduated With Baccalaureate Degree: Spring 2008
Masters or Doctoral Program Update: Accepted into the Doctoral Program in Pharmaceutics at Oregon State University for fall of 2008.
Scholar: Anna Scarpa
Major: Biology
Faculty Mentor: Dr. Dale Johnson
Research Topic: "Effects of Climate Variability and River Management on the Growth of Invasive Tamarisk Shrubs: A Tree-Ring Study"
Abstract: Tamarix is a non-native, invasive species that has negative effects on riparian environments. This study will explore the relationships between variability, hydrologic processes, and Tamarix growth. Research will be conducted using samples previously collected from the Grand _. Regression analysis will be used to develop predictive models for Tamariz diameter growth. Results of this study will help us to understand _ involved in how this species is able to successfully invade riparian plant communities.
New Scholar: Spring 2008
Graduated With Baccalaureate Degree: Spring 2009
Masters or Doctoral Program Update: Accepted into a master’s program at the University of Nevada, Reno for fall 2009.
Scholar: Leslie Anne Serra
Major: Health Ecology
Faculty Mentor: Dr. Patricia Miltenberger
Research Topic: An Exploration of the Experiences of UNR Students who are Mentors for the Dean’s Future Scholars program
Abstract: The Dean’s Future Scholar’s is a college preparation program for first generation, underrepresented students designed to address Nevada’s low college going rate and attract underrepresented individuals to teaching. It is a cooperative effort between the University of Nevada, Reno College of Education and Washoe County School District. Fifty 6th grade students are recruited annually from local Title I elementary schools. DFS scholars are provided with services such as mentoring, tutoring, summer academic enrichment and other academic support. Each cohort is followed through their high school graduation into college. One of the unique aspects of DFS is the emphasis on weekly mentoring provided by university students. Mentoring has been shown to have a positive impact on youth, particularly when provided by mentors of similar demographic backgrounds. Ryan and Olasov (2000) indicate that students who are mentored display a decreased use in drugs and alcohol, decrease in school truancy, improvement in grades, fewer unplanned pregnancies, and an improvement in relationships with adults and peers. Further, mentoring programs can provide students with the individual attention they need (Education Commission, 1989). While numerous studies have documented the impact of mentoring on the mentee, what is less understood is the effect on the mentors. The purpose of this research is to explore how the DFS mentoring relationship has affected the college students who have served as mentors for 2 years or longer. The study is a descriptive, qualitative case study. The theoretical construct is sensemaking as described by Weick (1995, 2001). In June 2009 eleven current and previous mentors were interviewed individually using a protocol approved by the university Institutional Review Board. Interviews were transcribed verbatim for analysis. Transcription analysis is being aided by use of NVivo software. A team of two faculty, a graduate student, and the McNair scholar are currently analyzing the data for themes. A preliminary finding that is being explored reflects developmental assets as described by Peter Scales and Nancy Leffert (1999).
New Scholar: Summer 2008
Graduated With Baccalaureate Degree: Fall 2009
Masters or Doctoral Program Update: Accepted into a Master’s Program in the Department of Educational Leadership at the University of Nevada, for spring 2010.
Scholar: Eric
Shoemaker
Major: History
Faculty Mentor: Dr. Kevin Stevens
Research Topic: "The Causes Of The Second Punic
War: Was Hannibal Responsible?"
Abstract: The Second Punic War begins in 219 B.C. with Hannibal’s
attack on Saguntum and ends with Hannibal’s defeat at Zama against
Scipio in 202 B.C. The Roman historians are unanimous in their belief that
Hannibal was ultimately responsible. Although they cite various reasons for
this, there are few other causes examined by these Roman historians. By
examining the research methods and accounts of Polybius and Livy, and some
Greek historians, this paper seeks to partially absolve Hannibal’s
responsibility.
Graduated With Baccalaureate Degree: Spring 2008
Scholar: Chariell
Smith
Major: Health Ecology Minor: Music
Faculty Mentor: Dr.Louis Niebur
Research Topic: “Introduction: Hip Hop-The Indestructible
Industry"
Abstract: Over 30 years, Hip Hop has shown itself to
be an industry dominated by masculinity. However, artists like Queen
Latifah, Tonya Winley, Sista Soljah, and MC Lyte were female exceptions to
the rule who managed to gain success in Hip Hop during its earlier years. This
project will explore the careers of several female Hip Hop artists and analyze
how they were able to achieve success in a male dominant industry. It
will also look at the apparent theme of female empowerment expressed by Hip
Hop’s early female artist and how it has evolved into a message of present
day exploitation.
Graduated With Baccalaureate Degree: Spring 2007
Scholar: Nhit
Vong
Major: Business
Faculty Mentor: Dr. Mike Reed
Research Topic: “The Inflows of Foreign Direct
Investment in China”
Abstract:
There is a qualitative research analyzing secondary data. The purpose
of this paper is to examine the inflows of foreign direct investment (FDI)
in China and an attempt to answer three questions: Is there a shift in the
inflows of FDI into China? What incentives does China offer to its foreign
direct investors? And who benefits and loses from China’s inflows of
FDI? In the first findings, my research suggested four changes took place
in the inflows of FDI: China’s traditional FDI suppliers have shifted
since 1979. The FDI types have also changed from Equity Joint Venture and
Contractual Joint Venture to Wholly Foreign Owned Enterprises, and that multinational
corporations also began their investments into capital-intensive activities.
The second findings suggested that China provides many incentives to foreign
investors: High GDP growth rate, large pool of skilled labor, large untapped
market, low wages, and undeveloped industries that allow for potential profit.
The last findings indicated that Chinese consumers, workers, and foreign invested
enterprises benefit from the abundant inflows of FDI at the potential expense
of its neighboring countries.
Graduated With Baccalaureate Degree: Spring 2005
Scholar: Gene
Wong
Major: Professional Chemistry
Faculty Mentor: Dr. Brian Frost
Research Topic: “Synthesis And Characterization
Of A Novel Chiral Bidentate Phosphine”
Abstract: The upper rim of 1, 3, 5-triaza-7-phosphaadamatane
(PTA) has been modified for the first time via lithiaton of PTA. The addition
of n-butyl lithium to PTA resulted in deprotonation of an a-phosphorous methylene
and formation of 1, 3, 5-triaza-7-phosphaadamatane-7-phosphaadamantane (PTA-PPh2).
The first upper rim PTA derivative was synthesized by reacting PTA-Li with
C1PPh2 resulting in the chiral phosphine 6-(diphenylphophino) - 1, 3, 5-triaza-7-phosphaadamatane
(PTA-PPh2). PTA-PPh2 has been fully characterized in solution by mass spectroscopy
and multinuclear NMR spectroscopy and multinuclear NMR spectroscopy, and in
the insoluble in aqueous solutions. Two group six metal carbonyl complexes
M(CO)4(PTA-PPh2)(M=W, Mo), were synthesized by addition of M(CO)4(PTA-PPh2)(pip)2
and characterized by NMR spectroscopy, and in the solid state by X-Ray crystallography.
Unlike PTA, the new bidentate phosphine, PTA-PPh2 is insoluble in aqueous
solutions. Two group six metal carbonyl complexes, M(CO)4(PTA-PPh2) (M=W,
Mo)4(pip)2 and characterized by NMR spectroscopy, infrared spectroscopy, and
X-Ray crystallography Also reported are the solid state structures of cis-W(CO)4(PTA)(PPh3)
and W(CO)4DPPM (DPPM= diphenylphosphinomethane)> From these tungsten complexes
PTA-PPh2 appears to be sterically similar to and slightly more electron donating
in comparison to DPPM.
Graduated With Baccalaureate Degree: Spring 2007
Masters or Doctoral Program Update: Accepted into the Chemistry Doctoral Program at the University of Wisconsin- Madison for fall of 2007.