Research and Creative Projects Take Flight with UGRCE Awards

From harnessing the power of wetlands to purify wastewater to testing new methods for collecting excess pharmaceuticals, Northeastern undergraduates will investigate consequential, complex problems this fall with support from the Undergraduate Research and Creative Endeavors (UGRCE) Awards. These awards will provide financial and academic support to 16 student-initiated projects under the supervision of Northeastern University faculty members; supported projects span a multitude of disciplines and professional fields across Northeastern University’s various colleges.

The UGRCE Awards offer Northeastern students the opportunity to propose original research and creative projects across a wide range of disciplines and conduct them over the course of an academic term. The Awards, funded by the Office of Undergraduate Research and Fellowships, provide support for both early and advanced projects and allow students to develop themselves both academically and professionally as young scholars contributing to the knowledge base of their field of study. The goal of the awards is to allow students to gain discipline-specific knowledge through rigorous research and learn to disseminate their work to individuals from disciplines other than their own with the intention of fostering cross-disciplinary understanding.

All UGRCE awardees participate in a Peer Talk series where they both present their projects’ progress, challenges, and successes, and offer feedback to other UGRCE Award recipients. We invite everyone to be part of the Peer Talk series to serve both as audience and reviewers for these outstanding scholars.

Join us in congratulating all Northeastern students who are recipients of the UGRCE Awards for Fall 2018:

Quantitative Investigation of Biological Cross-talk Between Osteoartheritic Joint Tissues
STUDENT(S): Sumayyah Akhtar COS‘21
MENTOR: Professor Ambika Bajpayee, Bioengineering
Osteoarthritis (OA) is a debilitating condition of the joints in which cartilage tissue progressively deteriorates causing pain and inflammation leading to loss of joint functionality. By utilizing a more holistic approach in studying OA, biological cross-talk, or interactions between the tissues can be accounted for. The goal of my project is to quantitatively investigate the source of biological cross-talk using proteomics which will allow for the investigation of which proteins are more or less abundant in osteoarthritic joints.

Developing a strategy to cryopreserve cellularized cryogel-based scaffolds for biomedical applications
STUDENT(S): Liyutha Qaswar Said Al Ismaili COE ‘20
MENTOR: Professor Sidi Bencherif, Chemical Engineering
My project aims to optimize cryogels to allow cryopreservation of cells to overcome current methods limitations. Success in my project will not only dramatically improve the scope of utilization of the cryogel-based platforms developed in our lab, but also allow both the conservation of complex cryogel-based tissue constructs or cryogel-based tumor cell vaccines, making one step further towards translational research.

Mind Over Matter 2.0: Connecting Cognitive Constructs
STUDENT(S): Kaila Atkins COS’19
MENTOR: Professor John Coley, Psychology
Research has linked essentialist beliefs with an individual’s tendency to make over-generalizations and endorse stereotypes. Fixed mindsets have been linked with low self-confidence, and the belief that ability and intelligence cannot improve with effort or practice. Having already found a significant positive relationship between fixed mindset and essentialist thinking, we now aim to determine if this relationship exists in a younger demographic, and to explore this relation before and after an intervention. The overarching goal of this intervention is to help participants become aware of what mindset is, and to challenge them to recognize their potentially fixed perspectives. Successfully implementing an intervention that improves growth mindset could potentially help people of all ages to decrease their essentialist thinking.

Simultaneous Silencing of iNOS and PD-L1 in Ovarian Cancer
STUDENT(S): Youngwoo Cho Bouvé‘19
MENTOR: Professor Mansoor M. Amiji, Pharmaceutical Science
Ovarian cancer (OC) is one of the most common and lethal neoplasm known in gynecologic malignancies that only shows a modest response to current immunotherapy. Studies indicate that the underlying mechanism in such resistance is from OC’s immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment. Our study will approach this problem by simultaneously silencing both PD-L1 and iNOS gene in OC cells, and by subsequently investigating  the gene-therapy-induced-interplay among genetically engineered tumor cells, MDSCs and cytotoxic T cells. Through our study, we hope to show the therapeutic potential of iNOS inhibition in improving the efficacy of OC immunotherapy.

Structural Characterization of Ras in complex with a Raf kinase construct containing the Cysteine Rich Domain
STUDENT(S): Trinity Cookis COE‘20
MENTOR: Professor Carla Mattos, Chemistry & Chemical Biology
Ras and Raf are two proteins involved in the mitogen-activated protein kinase pathway (MAPK) and are infamous for their roles in various cancers. The mechanism for the activation of Raf by Ras in this signalling cascade remains unclear due to the missing details linking the interaction between the two proteins at the membrane with the activation of the Raf catalytic kinase domain. Raf associates with Ras via its Ras binding domain (RBD) and cysteine rich domain (CRD). The Raf RBD interaction with Ras is well understood, however, little is known for the Ras-Raf CRD association. This study proposes to use varying KRas and BRaf constructs in order to maximize crystallization efforts for this complex.

Reproductive Consequences of Pathogenic in a Social Insect: Paternal Effects
STUDENT(S): Michael Dello Russo COS ‘21
MENTOR: Professor Rebeca Rosengaus, Marine & Environment Sciences
The goal of this study is to test how pathogenic stress will affect the reproductive ability of Zootermopsis angusticollis kings. I predict that if exposure to live Serratia adversely affects the health of the kings, then it will also cause organs from their reproductive tract to have smaller size, mass, and lower protein count. Kings play an important role in their colonies and it is worth looking into how bacterial exposure affects this role.

Automated Personality Assessment Using Smartphone Data
STUDENT(S): Jack Demaree COS‘21
MENTOR: Professor Randy Colvin, Psychology
This project seeks to validate the use of data collected from smartphone sensors with the previous “best standards” of psychological assessment. This could create a new “gold standard” for psychological assessment, allowing researchers to avoid the pitfalls of in-lab assessments (such as lack of objectivity and bias). To conduct this research, 100 students will participate in an in-lab assessment of personality and will then download an app that continuously collects various sensor data from their phone (such as location and app usage) for thirty days. The phone-gathered data will then be correlated to the personality constructs of the individuals to seek correlations between behaviors in a naturalistic setting and the personality types observed in lab.

Mediation of Serotonin Production by the Gut Microbiota
STUDENT(S): Beth DiBiase COE‘20
MENTOR: Professor Abigail Koppes, Chemical Engineering
Bidirectional communication between the gut microbiota and the central nervous system occurs at an intersection called the gut-brain axis. Information is conveyed across this axis through neurotransmitters secreted by enteroendocrine cells, which are a part of the intestinal epithelium. The dysregulation of serotonin, one of the primary neurotransmitters mediating the gut-brain-axis’ crosstalk, is a significant factor in the development of both mental and physical disorders, including anxiety, depression, irritable bowel syndrome, and cardiovascular disease. However, despite this system’s significant impact on the human body, little is known about the gut-brain axis’ serotonergic pathways and their relation to the byproducts of the gut microbiota. In order to better understand and treat diseases related to serotonin deficiencies, we propose investigating the relationship between metabolites of the gut microbiota, the expression of tryptophan hydroxylase 1 (TPH1; a serotonin synthesis enzyme), and the production of serotonin.

Computer Vision Augmented EEG/EMG Prosthetic Arm
STUDENT(S): Amaresh Emani COE‘18
Michael Rossi Santomauro COE ‘19
Alexander Embry COE ‘19
Anthony Montuoro COE ‘19
MENTOR: Professor Deniz Erdogmus, Electrical and Comp Engineering
Our goal is to create a cheap (~$2000) above-the-elbow prosthetic arm that leverages Computer Vision and Machine Learning technology in conjunction with a hybrid EEG/EMG system that is more versatile and easier to use than similar commercially available products. As this is our capstone project, we plan on presenting first to the capstone committee and then at EMBC 2019 after writing a paper for submission.

Investigation of Selenium Nanoparticles and their Potential Use in Anticancer Therapies
STUDENT(S): Jakob Farnham COE‘20
MENTOR: Professor Thomas Webster, Chemical Engineering
The purpose of this research is to test multiple methods of forming selenium nanoparticles (SeNPs), comparing their cost and time effectiveness. Following this, we will explore the efficacy of various concentrations of these SeNPs against Glioblastoma Multiforme, an aggressive form of Brain Cancer. We have seen proof that SeNPs can be used in treating cancerous cells, but we do not fully understand how, and will see if the mechanism that impacts these cells would also impact healthy Astrocytes. If it proves to have similar effects, we will look into introducing a new mechanism to increase selectivity or accuracy in targeting cancer cells.

De Novo Synthesis of Phomopsolide E Analogues
STUDENT(S): Seth Freedman COS‘21
MENTOR: Professor George O’Doherty, Chemistry & Chemical Biology
This project aims to improve our ability to control the stereochemistry of synthetic analogues of Phomopsolide E, while maximizing yield and efficiency. The phomopsolides have been shown to be an effective antiboring/antifeeding agent against the elm bark beetle (Scolytid beetle), the carrier of Dutch elm disease–a major threat to the North American tree population.

Iron Transporters in the Gut: Impact of Organic Acids on DMT1, ZIP8, and ZIP14
STUDENT(S): Caroline Ghio COE‘21
MENTOR: Professor Abigail Koppes, Chemical Engineering
“Iron Transporters in the Gut: Impact of Organic Acids on DMT1, ZIP8, and ZIP14” is an investigation into the impact of metabolic intermediates/products of glycolysis on iron homeostasis and the Krebs cycle in intestinal epithelial cells. Previous UGRCE funded research showed the ability of lactic acid, an intermediate of the Krebs cycle, to facilitate iron absorption, but did not determine whether a specific iron importing protein was responsible. Three proteins, DMT1, ZIP8, and ZIP14, will be investigated in this experiment through RNA isolation and various assays.

Understanding the Impacts of Living Learning Machine Configuration on Microbial Populations for the Production of Reuse Water
STUDENT(S): Kestral Johnston COE‘19
MENTOR: Professor Annalisa Onnis-Hayden, Civil & Environmental Engineering
Providing access to clean water and managing the nitrogen cycle are two of the National Academy of Engineering Grand Challenges for the 21st century. A Tidal Flow Constructed Wetland (TFCW) addresses these challenges by treating wastewater on-site for potential reuse. Currently the TFCW can produce effluent meeting Class A water reuse standards set forth by MassDep 314: CMR: Division of Water Pollution Control, however, improvement of this relatively new technology requires a comprehensive understanding of how the system works at a microbial level. The microbial population in the system is analyzed through the use of Fluorescence In-Situ Hybridization (FISH), which allows for the identification and relative quantification of specific bacteria that affect the ability of the TFCW to remove nitrogen from wastewater. This research involves the continuous analysis of nitrogen, phosphorous, solids, and chemical oxygen demand (COD) throughout the system to measure its performance under various loading conditions. Monitoring these parameters will lead to optimization of the system so that it can be applied in real world applications.

Gain Adaptation: The role of M1 in the learning, retention and savings of a visuomotor adaptation
STUDENT(S): Sofia Kirkman COS‘20
Trisha Sheth Bouvé –
Alexandra Ruszczyk Bouvé –
Gladys Flores Romero COS –
MENTOR: Professor Eugene Tunik, Physical Therapy
We will be studying the primary motor cortex (M1) and its role in adaptation. Adaptation involves learning from errors by using sensory input to adjust and improve motor output. Our aim is to see if it is necessary to include the reduction of errors and the increase of M1 excitability in order to retain learned behaviors (savings) and observe them again during a relearning process. This study could contribute to the understanding of neurophysiology in relation to movement and learning. Since this study also involves advanced technologies to investigate M1 (i.e. Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation, electromyography, and virtual programs), it could also serve as a guide for how these technologies can be utilized to study the brain and perhaps other motor pathologies. We predict that the savings and savings related to M1 excitability will be retained if the errors subjects make during their training are minimized.

Up, Up and Away: Evaluating Patient Knowledge and Utilization of Medication Disposal Programs
STUDENT(S): David Lu Bouvé‘20
MENTOR: Professor Adam Woolley, Pharmacy & Health Systems Sci
I am conducting a survey of the utilization, awareness, and perception of pharmaceutical take back programs (TBP) at Northeastern University and Tai Tung Community Pharmacy and studying the use of USPS prepaid medication disposal envelopes for patients to mail in their unused and excess pharmaceuticals (UEP). I aim to not only address research gaps in perceptions, utilization, and awareness, but also trial a new way for patients to dispose of UEPs. I expect to find that current TBPs are underutilized, underpromoted, and in need of improvements to overcome barriers to access. Through this study, I hope to better understand the ability of TBPs to combat the negative consequences associated with improper medication disposal amid the opioid abuse epidemic. I plan to share the results at various research conventions at Northeastern and at national pharmacist conventions through poster presentations.

Oxidative Stress Accumulation in Parvalbumin Neurons after Early Life Stress
STUDENT(S): Alexa Soares COS‘19
MENTOR: Professor Heather Brenhouse, Psychology
Trauma experienced during childhood can have long-lasting consequences. By simulating early life trauma in rats, this project aims to investigate the effects of childhood stress on the brain. This project will examine brain regions responsible for cognition and memory, the way they are shaped by stress, and what this means for development and functioning later in life. Differences in sex and age will be studied in order to provide nuanced insight into neurodevelopmental dysfunction.

Investigating the Mechanochemistry of Tenascin-C Binding Affinity to Fibronectin Fibrils in Different Conformational States
STUDENT(S): Alexandra Spak COE‘21
MENTOR: Professor Jeff Ruberti, Bioengineering
Fibrosis is the overgrowth and subsequent scarring and hardening of bodily tissues in response to injury. This condition can occur in many vital organs and results in organ complications and failure. On a cellular level, fibrosis is caused by an excessive increase in extracellular matrix. The extracellular matrix serves as structural support for cells and tissues, and consists primarily of proteins and fibers such as fibronectin and collagen. Tenascin-C is another extracellular matrix protein that stimulates fibronectin and collagen accumulation, and therefore causes an increase in extracellular matrix. My research goal is to characterize tenascin-C binding affinity to fibronectin fibers in different conformational states. I hypothesize that the application of tensile mechanical strain, via stretching, to fibronectin fibers will increase tenascin-C binding affinity.

Biomechanical Properties of Cartilage Following Charged Polypeptide Uptake
STUDENT(S): Matthew Warren COE‘22
MENTOR: Professor Ambika Bajpayee, Bioengineering
Currently, there does not exist an efficient, sustained delivery system for disease-modifying osteoarthritis drugs. The Bajpayee lab has done extensive work screening the potential of positively-charged drug carriers, taking advantage of the negatively charged matrix of cartilage tissue. While these solutes have proven to be effective for retention within tissue, the physical effects on the tissue remain unknown. In this project, I use both static and dynamic mechanical testing methods (using a DMA testing apparatus) to characterize the biomechanical properties of cartilage after drug carrier uptake. I hypothesize that the introduction of these charged particles into the cartilage extracellular matrix changes the fixed charge density and osmotic swelling pressure, ultimately affecting tissue elasticity. Thus, the goal of these experiments is to determine the safety and viability of these solutes for in vivo drug delivery based on their effects on tissue stiffness/elasticity.

Ion Diffusive Qualities of Nanoscale Smectite Clay
STUDENT(S): Aydin Wells COS‘21
MENTOR: Professor Nathan Israeloff, Physics
Using finite element modelling, electromagnetic simulations of smectite clay particles under an electrical load can be constructed to better understand conductivity and phase shift observed in the system. A more detailed simulation design and a more rigorous mathematical approach would be done to tackle the intricacies of finding cluster versus individual particle interactions as well as water dynamics and ion diffusivity properties in the clay. Although the tools to the simulate and collect this data are not uncommon, the identification and analysis of these key characteristics in smectite clay have not been done in the nanophysical field.

The Two Sides of Corporate Reputation
STUDENT(S): Lindsey Yonish DMSB‘20
MENTOR: Professor Charn P. McAllister, Management and Organizational Development
Corporations and CEOs have increasingly emerged as advocates for various social and political issues, particularly within the United States. The goal of this research is to investigate how employees’ perceptions of their organization’s reputation affect their behaviors in the workplace. More specifically, this research will consider the impact of reputational alignment, or the congruence between the reputation projected by an organization and employees’ perceptions of an organizations’ reputation.