Senior Seminar MiniSymposium 1996

An index of what this document contains:

Schedule

Alphabetic List of Student Presenters

Each name listed below is linked to that student's abstract. Some of the abstracts are set up with the Author's Name being a link to send mail to that student.

Arndt, Sarah Elizabeth
Bailey, Jill
Bluhm, J. Michael
Boehnemann, Robin
Boomgaart, Paul
Brisky, Phil
Brown, Ina L.
Chau, Khanh
Chen, Liang-Chieh
Chien, Ming Chen
Cortez, Pablo
Cue, Edvardo
DeLeon, Adolfo
Dimas, Juan
Dreher, Eric
Erales, Felix
Farris, Adam
Flores, Angel
Gonzales, Jesus
Gonzales, Juan Diego
Gutierrez, Mario
Hatheway, Rick
Hernandez, Osvaldo
Hiser, Sidney
Jensen, Ken
Jorgensen, Jesse
Juarez, Elizabeth
Kimmons, Russell
Ko, Chiu-Wei
Lang, Chris
Lealos, Lynn
Martinez, Patricia
Martinez, Stanford
McDonald, Shannon
Meek, Laurie
Mummey, Lori
Neville, Kim
Nokes, Rita
Nwokeji, Esmond
Ouellette, Amos
Phillips, Alfie
Pogorzelski, Stephanie
Ramirez, Elena
Rios, Oscar
Rosipal, Chuck
Sandbach, Emily
Sanders, Geremy
Schuster, David
Sebesta, Sean
Sepulveda, Magdalena
Smith, Mark
Spates, Chris
Vahdani, Kourosh
Vardavas, Nicos
Waterfield, Gwyn
Westbrook, Lucy
Young, Cory

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Abstracts of Biology Papers

 Author: Michael J. Bluhm
Title: The Comparison of Antibiotic Therapy, Hyperbaric Therapy, and Surgery in the Treatment of gas Gangrene of the Foot in the Diabetic Patient
Abstract: The tendency for diabetics to develop gangrene of the foot is high. Circulatory problems, which decrease circulation in the small blood vessels of the leg, render the feet more susceptible to injury and tissue breakdown. As a result of this breakdown, anaerobic microorganisms can thrive and cause a condition called GAS GANGRENE or Clostridial myonecrosis. The Clostridium species, perfringens, which is found as a single spore-forming bacilli, produce a necrotizing infection of the skeletal muscle. Prevention of this infection will be mentioned, and three current methods of treatment, antibiotic therapy, hyperbaric oxygenation therapy, and surgery will be investigated and compared. The best method of treatment will be determined after evaluation of the data collected.
Author: Ina L. Brown
Title: EARLY INFANTILE AUTISM--An Emphasis on the Possible Relationship Between Frontal Lobe and Lymbic System Dysfunctions and Social Deficits
Abstract: There are a number of mental disorders which can generally be labelled as schizophrenia--disorders characterized by severe distortions in thought, perception, emotion, and behavior--and one such disorder of particular interest to researchers for the past few decades has been autism. The obvious difference between the two, however, is the age of onset. Schizophrenia usually takes its toll on subjects of adolescent age or older, while the characteristics of autism begin to appear in subjects as early as two years of age. Autism is loosely defined as absorption in fantasy to the extent that reality becomes obscure; however, its features are quite severe. It is a lifelong disorder which impairs one's ability to interact socially and to communicate verbally, nonverbally, or in imaginative activity. Furthermore, autistic behavior is associated with a limited repertoire of activities and interests. Autism is of particular interest because, like the other disorders which fall under the category of schizophrenia, it is not well understood or explained. Research has been done to try to link social deficits in autism with possible frontal lobe and limbic system dysfunctions. Since autism is a lifelong disorder, this discussion will focus on the latest research examining autism in subjects of varied ages, as well as its significance.
Author: Adolfo DeLeon
Title: Cross-linking in Collagen
Abstract: Collagen stiffening is known to increase as an animal or human age increase. This stiffening is caused by the cross-linking in the bone matrix. There is much controversy about what causes these cross-linkings and how can it be repaired. Some scientist say that tissue dependent changes in lysyl oxidase mediate cross-linking. Other scientists say that lysyl oxidase is not solely the cause for collagen stiffening: Dietary restriction also contribute to some increase of cross-linkages in the matrix. The goals is to compare experimental evidence in both sides and make an educated conclusion on the research.
Author: Juan Dimas
Title: Determination of antibiotic resistance exchange between Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Escherichia coli with antibibiotics Neomycin and Tetracycline
Abstract: An increase in antibiotic resistance has greatly occurred since 1960 at an undetermined rate among pathogenic bacteria (Jonsson 1973). This has caused attention to shift to ananlyze and attempt to understand the problem of antibiotic resistance. It is known that bacteria may become resistant to antibiotic action to protect themselves. This experiment will look at two different species of bacteria which are resistant to different antibiotics. Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Escherichia coli will be the two bacteria used for this experiment. Ps. aeruginosa is resistant to the antibiotic Neomycin while E. coli is sensitive to it, and Ps. aeruginosa is resistant to Tetracycline while E. coli is sensitive. The bacteria will be in a stable and suitable nutritive growing environment and both species will be grown together. The Kirby-Bauer Method will be used for determining and analyzing antibiotic susceptibility, and data will be collected to see if change in sensitivity have occurred in the two species. This would be an indication of genetic exchange between E. coli and Ps. aeruginosa .
Author: Mario Gutierrez
Title: DETERMINATION OF THE EFFECTIVENESS OF NEW DRUG TREATMENTS FOR AIDS
Abstract: AIDS IS A DISEASE WHOSE CAUSE IS LINKED TO THE HIV VIRUS. IT EVENTUALLY RESULTS IN THE DESTRUCTION OF THE IMMUNE SYSTEM LEAVING THE BODY UNABLE TO FIGHT DISEASES. CURRENTLY, THERE IS NO CURE ONLY LIMITED TREATMENT FROM DRUGS LIKE AZT. THIS SEMINAR WILL ADDRESS AND COMPARE THE PHYSIOLOGICAL ASPECTS AND EFFECTIVENESS OF AZT WITH NEW ALTERNATIVE TREATMENTS LIKE DDC, DDI, AND PROTEASE INHIBITORS.
Author: Osvaldo Hernandez
Title: Efficiency Determination of Sampling Method For Two Commonly Used Rapid Bioassessment Protocols
Abstract: Rapid Bioassessment Protocols (RBPs) using benthic macroinvertebrates have been developed for the purpose of monitoring water quality. The protocols were developed as a cost-effective means of supplementing physical and chemical assessments of lotic systems with a biological component. The two common protocols used are 1) United States Environmental Protection AgencyÕs RBPII which calls for a 100 organism sample, and 2) the three surber sampler method used in the Texas least disturbed streams assessment by Jack Davis. In an effort to test the efficacy of the protocols for Central Texas lotic systems, a minimum of ten surber samples were collected from Barton Creek at three sites; Lost Creek, Gill Ranch, and Shield Ranch. This data will be used to derive species curves that will be used to determine the percentage of total taxa collected with each of the protocols.
Author: Jesse Jorgensen
Title: Analysis of an isolated genomic clone from the cellular slime mold Dictyostelium discoidium
Abstract: Dictyostelium discoidium is a cellular slime mold that exists in its vegetative phase as a free-living amoeba in forest litter and the surface layer of soil, feeding on bacteria such as Escherichia coli and Aerobacter aerogenes. Upon starvation, growth is terminated and D. discoidium amobae collect to form a multicellular aggregate via chemotaxis. The expression of many new genes results in multicellular differentiation, during which time the aggregate develops into a fruiting body consisting of a sorocarp of spore cells resting on a column of stalk cells. A clone isolated from a D. discoidium genomic library with a cDNA probe was analyzed. The construction of a reporter gene was chosen as the means to examine the developmental and spatial expression of the genomic clone.
Author: Elizabeth Juarez
Title: Effect of Phenol on the Growth of Nitrosomonas europeae ATCC25978
Abstract: Ammonia is one of the main pollutants found in the waste water of petroleum refineries and petrochemical plants . In order to rid the ammonia from waste water, the process of nitrification must occur. Nitrification of ammonia requires 2 steps which are done by Nitrosomonas and Nitrobacter. NH3 _________ N02_________N03 Ammonia is oxidized to nitrite by Nitrosomonas and nitrite is oxidized to nitrate by Nitrobacter. Nitrosomonas is an autotrophic gram negative bacterium found in soil and fresh water; it is used by industries to oxidized ammonia to nitrite. However, the presence of phenol in the waste water has shown to inhibit nitrification by Nitrosomonas. In this study, the effects of phenol on the growth of Nitrosomonas europeae (strain ATCC25978) using Polymerase Chain Reaction(PCR), NH and N0 tests, and dilution and plating are shown. Different phenol concentrations were administered to the bacteria and the results recorded. These results showed the concentrations of 50-400 ppm of phenol inhibited the growth of the bacteria. As a result, industries have to deal with the problem of ammonia in the waste waters or run the risk of administering it to the receiving water body.
Author: Russell Kimmons
Title:
Abstract:
Author: Chris Lange
Title: Affects of Water Temperature on the Respiration Rates of Aquatic Insects
Abstract: Abstract: The affects of water temperature on the respiration rates of aquatic insects was studied using dragonfly larvae as specimens. Specimens were collected from a pond at Breckenridge Field Laboratory and kept in aquariums at St. Edwards university for observation. Respiration rates were measured at three temperatures with the hypothesis that the rates would be the highest at the warmest temperature and lowest at the lowest temperature. Three levels of treatment (temperature) were used with ten trials per treatment. The resulting data (respiration rates) were then compared statistically using a one-way ANOVA.
Author: Shannon McDonald
Title:
Abstract: Melatonin is a naturally occurring hormone in humans and is produced in the pineal gland. It is present in high levels before the onset of sleep and slowly decreases until the time of awakening and remains at a low level throughout the daylight hours. For this reason, it is suspected that melatonin has a role in regulating the body's circadium rhythm. Many experiments have been conducted to conclude whether or not melatonin can be used in treating human sleep disorders such as delayed sleep disorders. This research will be analyzed to determine melatonin's medical use.
Author: Laurie Meek
Title: Relationships Between Helicobacter pylori and Gastric Diseases
Abstract: Recent research has shown the bacterium Helicobacter pylori to be associated with numerous gastrointestinal problems and ultimately gastric disease. This paper will discuss the various tests used to detect the presence of Helicobacter pylori, transmission of the bacterial infection, and the manifestations of an infection. Further discussion will cover the possible link of Helicobacter pylori to gastric cancer and heart disease. Options for treatment vary among the medical profession. These options and their effectiveness will conclude the paper.
Author: Lori Mummey
Title: Can the application of amylase, polygalacturonase, or a combination of both, disrupt the glycocalyx layer present in the biofilm of Pseudomonas aeruginosa, which allows it to withstand traditional washings?
Abstract: Biofilms are colonies of microorganisms enclosed in a glycocalyx matrix. Many biofilm bacteria are more resistant to washings than are their planktonic counterparts. This causes a problem in many settings, most notably hospitals. Because of the biofilms resistant nature, it has become one of the leading causes of hospital infections. This study will be conducted in an attempt to find a solution of enzymes capable of disrupting the glycocalyx matrix present in the biofilm of Pseudomonas aeruginosa, thereby promoting the ability to wash the biofilm from surfaces. Biofilms will be generated by inoculation of polycarbonate membranes with planktonic cultures and cultured on agar plates. The two enzymes, amylase and polygalacturonase, will be applied to biofilm, separately and in combination. Standard plate counts will be conducted on both the pre-treated biofilm and on the enzyme treated biofilm. A simple analysis of variance will be used to determine if the enzyme solutions caused a significant reduction in the number of viable cells in the biofilm.
Author: Rita Nokes
Title: A correlation between algal occurrence and water quality upstream and downstream from a waste water treatment plant on Cummings Creek.
Abstract: Water samples were collected from two sites on Cummings Creek, one upstream and one downstream from a waste water treatment plant that discharges effluent into the creek. The samples were analyzed to determine chemical composition and the species of algae that were present. This study will attempt to see if there is a correlation between the presence of certain indicator algal species and the levels of various nutrients (e.g., nitrates and phosphates) in the water.
Author: Esmond Nwokeji
Title: Role of Calcium in Insulin secretion
Abstract: Glucose is an essential nutrient in many organisms pathway's. In normal mamallian cells high glucose levels stimulate the release of many hormones. One hormone in particular is insulin which is secreted Beta- cells. Insulin triggers the removal of glucose out of the blood to be stored in the liver as glycogen (until it is needed later). When insufficient amounts of insulin are secreted by the cell a condition known as Diabetes mellitus occurs. Diabetes is a genetic disease which can spontaneously arise within an individual or be passed by parents onto progeny. Studies to date suggest a link between a calcium binding protein, Cal Modulin, and the hyposecretion of Insulin from Beta- cells. We are currently studying the relationship of Cal Modulin and Insulin secretion in Transgenic mice (whose Beta cells have similar characteristics to humans). Two types of mice are involved in the study. The first type of mouse is the control designated as 'normal mice' . Normal mice are healthy and show no signs of Insulin hyposecretion or any diabetic related illness. The second type of mice used are Transgenic mice. Transgenic mice are healthy mice that are injected with a plasmid vector carrying a mutated pancreatic Beta- cell gene. The mutated gene would cause Beta- cells to hyposecrete Insulin. The link between diabetes and Beta- cells in mice and is allowing more significant information to be analyzed into finding the root cause of this disorder. Researchers have explored areas (constituents) of the TCA cycle, glycolytic cycle, cytoplasmic ion concentration, and protein involvement in plasma membrane potential. Through further study of Transgenic mice and meticulous observations of the data acquired we are able to test the correlations (hypothesis) of Cal Modulins role in Insulin secretion.
Author: Amos Ouellette
Title: Determining the Abundance and Frequency of Thysanura in Fire Ant Mounds
Abstract: An experimental study that determined the abundance and frequency of thysanura (silverfish)and other myrmacophiles in fire ant mounds was done. This study will report on population abundance and frequency of thysanura withing fire ant mounds, providing information on this relationship. Methods include digging through a random sample of fire ant mounds and recording the insects that live within. The research then answered the research question: What is the frequency and abundance of thysanura in fire ant mounds?
Author: Stephanie Pogorzelski
Title: Title: Does long term memory acquisition in Drosophila melanogaster require protein synthesis?
Abstract: Memory is defined as the ability to reproduce what has been learned and retained (Boyton 1990). There are two types of memory, short-term memory (STM) and long-term memory (LTM). STM is memory that reaches its maximum immediately after training and decays within an hour (Boyton 1990). In contrast, LTM is memory that reaches its maximum 1-2 hours after training and is retainable at least seven hours after that training (Boyton 1990). It is not entirely clear form the current literature whether or not induction of LTM requires protein synthesis. In the fruit fly, Drosophila melanogaster, the traditional view is that the acquisition of LTM requires protein synthesis through the cAMP cascade (Tully 1985, Dezazzo 1995). However, recent studies suggest that LTM can be acquired in the absence of protein synthesis (Boyton 1990, Yin 1995). The present study will examine and analyze the available literature with the goal of clarifying whether or not LTM requires protein synthesis. By elucidating the experimental differences between significant studies with contradictory conclusions, I hope to discover whether or not protein synthesis is required for LTM acquisition. This may lead to new insight into the cellular mechanisms for learning and memory for Drosophila melanogaster, as well as other organisms.
Author: Oscar Rios
Title: Identification of Microbiota in Baker's Crossing (Devil's River) located in Val Verde County, Texas.
Abstract: This research will take place on Baker's Crossing, which is part of Devil's River located in Texas state county of Val Verde. For this experiment I will use Protocol II in the Environmental Protection Agency Rapid Bioassessment Protocols for Use in Streams and Rivers. I will take 15 samples of the aquatic microbiota to determine the abundance and diversity in Baker's Crossing. This will be done by taking kick samples which is a method in which one puts an aquatic net in such a manner that as one "kicks" or disturbs the riffle area, the organisms will flow into the net for collection. As each sample it taken, the first 100 organisms picked will be used for identification; the rest will be discarded. The organisms will be identified down to family and a species curve will be administered accordingly. This data will be compared with that already collected for the part of Devil's River that passes through the Nature Conservancy Agency. The results and conclusion will be announced during a symposium on March 22, 1996.
Author: Chuck Rosipal
Title: Trout food preference versus aquatic entomological food availability
Abstract: Results of a study of the gut contents of the rainbow trout are presented, and correlated with the known arthropod abundance and diversity of the stream. The research also investigates, via the gut analysis, the food preference of the trout versus the availability of aquatic insect or arthropod species present in the stream. Data collected in the study focuses on only one season of the year in order to eliminate seasonal changes in arthropod diversity and abundancy.
Author: Emily Sandbach
Title: Kin Recognition of Sisters by Male Social Wasps (Polistes, Hymenoptera: Vepidae)
Abstract: I investigated male kin recognition in the paper wasp, Polistes exclamins, using triplets composed of one male and two females. One female in each triplet was related to the male, the other female was not. Each of ten triplets was placed in a plastic observation box and after an initial 30min. acclimatization period, observed for 1hr. Mating preference by the male for sister or non-sister wasps was recorded and measured by two behavioral categories: chasing and mounting. The underlying assumption was that a preference for either a sister or non-sister would be considered a kin recognition or discrimination behavior by the male.
Author: Geremy L. Sanders
Title: Does the USDA approved recombinant Bovine Growth Hormone (rBGH) designed to stimulate the production of beef/dairy products account for increased levels of IGF-1 levels in humans and cows?
Abstract: On November 5, 1993, the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved the use of a commercial growth hormone (rBGH) to be administered to cows to stimulate the production of milk and beef. This is a genetically engineered synthetic hormone. After ten years of research and field tests, the US and British Governments concluded that rBGH will not have any harmful effects on injected cows or humans ingesting rBGH injected beef/dairy products. However, farmers and independent researchers disagree. They believe this synthetic growth hormone affects both the cow and beef /dairy products derived from injected cows. Both sides dispute whether or not rBGH causes an increase in IGF-1 levels in cows and humans. IGF-1 is a growth factor linked to both breast and colon cancer. I will compare the research and results from both sides and determine if this synthetic growth hormone is responsible for increased levels of IGF-1 in both humans and cows. I will use an analysis of variance to determine if there is a relationship and present my findings in a symposium on March 22, 1996.
Author: Magdalena Sepulveda
Title:
Abstract: The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that in 1990 there were more than 7.5 million cases of tuberculosis (TB) and 3 million deaths worldwide of which 450,00 deaths were children. In a typical adult TB case, the adult is first exposed, and once exposed begins to show the classic signs and symptoms of TB, i.e. cough that lasts more than two weeks. After a reactive Manatoux Tuberculosis Skin Test(TST), other current diagnostic tests such as chest radiograph or a sputum sample will usually clearly diagnose a patient as being positive for TB. Unlike adults, children may have a reactive TST, but show no signs and symptoms, no abnormalities in their chest radiograph, and often Mycobacterium tuberculosis cannot be found in the sputum sample. Because of this, it is often difficult to assess the stage of tuberculosis, i.e. exposure, infection, or disease. Without clear diagnosis, the correct treatment may not be given to the child because it relies on the stage of TB. Therefore, additional diagnostic tests with more specificity and sensitivity need to be established for pediatric TB. Two possible solutions are the Polymerase Chain Reaction(PCR) and Enzyme-Immunosorbant Assay (ELISA). By comparing current research, it may be determined which one of these two tests would be most useful.
Author: Christopher R. Spates
Title: The role of the protein Agrin in the formation of de nono synaptic connections.
Abstract: During fetal development, and throughout adult life, correct functioning of the nervous and muscular systems depends on the formation and functioning of synapses. A synapse is a specialized connection between nerve cells, or between a nerve and a muscle cell. These cells communicatevia the synapse. During development, fetal neurons must seek out appropriate targets and develop mature synaptic connections. Later in life, synapses are also formed during repair events as well as during processes such as learning.

Formation of a synapse requires the assembly of specialized pre-synaptic and post-synaptic machinery at the synaptic junction. Until the past decade the mechanisms by which the synapse is assembled and organized were poorly understood. Recent studies have elucidated these mechanisms. Studies by Rupp (1992), McMahan (1992), and Fallon and Gelfman (1989) suggest that the protein agrin plays a vital role in synaptic formation. Agrin is associated with the assembly of pre-synaptic vesicles and clustering of post-synaptic receptors. However, there is some debate in the literature as to the source of the agrin protein, pre-synaptic or post-synaptic. The present study examines the latest literature to explore both sides of this debate.

Author: Nicos Vardavas
Title: Is homosexuality biologically influenced?
Abstract: For more than two decades, researchers have presented evidence for biological mechanisms underlying male homosexuality. Research has been done in two major fields: One states that the third cell group (INAH 3) of the interstitial nuclei of the anterior hypothalamus is different in heterosexual men than in homosexual. The other has focused on the role of genetics in male sexual orientation, and suggest a sex-linked transmission (gene Xq28) in a portion of the population. Finally, there is a group of scientists that disagree with the above two assumptions. All above proposals are taken under consideration in an attempt to re-evaluate the question.
Author: Cory Young
Title: SITE COMPARISON OF WESTERN AND EASTERN CROSS TIMBERS.
Abstract: A baseline comparison of the Western Cross Timbers Research Area, Wise Co., with that of Lick Creek Park, Brazos Co., based upon species and number of herbaceous, middlestory, and overstory populations, basal densities, and belt transects of open areas, woodlands, and wooded creek bottoms.

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Abstracts of Chemistry Papers

 Author: Felix Erales
Title: A study of the activity and behavior of the enzyme subtilisin compared with the enzyme chymotrypsin.
Abstract: Subtilisin is a serine protease that occurs in many bacteria. Chymotrypsin is also a serine protease but occurs only in higher mammals. Both enzymes efficiently cleaves c-terminal amino acids from peptide bonds using similar catalytic mechanisms. Although the two enzymes share the same catalytic triad, they do not share any other sequence homologies and their tertiary structures are completely different. Their functional similarity may be the result of convergent evolution. A comparison of their activity and behavior has not been done.
Author: Adam Farris
Title: Raman Studies of Deuterated Alcohols in Nonpolar Solvents
Abstract: There have been numerous infrared studies of the hydroxyl stretching bands and corresponding minimum energy conformations of alcohols in nonpolar solvents, including recent cyclohexane studies at St. EdwardÕs University. The purpose of this research is to investigate the feasibility of using FT-Raman spectoscopy to conduct similiar studies of deuterated alcohols. The initial results from this research show different relative hydroxyl stretching band intensities in the Raman than in the IR. Raman spectra show a less intense polymer band and a more intense monomer band than IR spectra. Also, it was discovered that the best solvents for IR studies are not satisfactory solvents in Raman Studies.
Author: Sean Sebesta
Title: The Determination of the Quantum Yield () for Mn3+ Production in Aqueous Acidic Solutions of Mn2+
To determine the molar absorptivity, , for Mn 2+, molar solutions of Mn 2+ were prepared and their absorption was measured with a Varian Cary spectrophotometer. The Beer-Lambert law, A=Bc, was applied to the plot of the absorbance points, where is the slope. For 401 and 528 nm the was .026 and .019, respectively. The path lengths used were 1 cm and 5 cm; the results were in agreement. Mn3+ was produced by using high concentrations of MnO4- and Mn2+ in the balanced equation:
MnO4- + 4Mn2+ + 8H+ ÑÑ> 5Mn3+ + 4H2O (E¡ =0.0)
The for 248 and 305 nm were 1.3 X 106 and 6.6 X 105, respectively. Chemical actinometry, using triiodide production via photolysis by a low-pressure mercury lamp, was used to determine the intensity of the lamp. Mn2+ was then photolyzed. The production of Mn3+ from photolysis and the intensity measurement were used to determine the quantum yield of Mn3+. The quantum yield was approximately 2.56 X 10-4 at five minutes of photolysis.

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Abstracts of Computer Science Papers

 Author: Paul Boomgaart Or you can check out the Web page on my research.
Title:
Abstract: The IBM AIX machines in FH110A are not performing as expected. It is suspected that the lack of performance is due to the little amount of RAM memory that the machines have to work with. Currently there is a maximum of 2 users allowed on each machine not counting the multiple sessions generated by X11. Each RS6000 workstation has recently received a memory upgrade of 16 Mb which brings the total up to 32 Mb. In my research I hope the find optimal memory configurations, expressed in terms of RAM and virtual memory that will allow the RISC lab to maximize the performance of the RS6000 - 220 workstations without incurring unnecessary future upgrade cost.
Author: Phil Brisky
Title: What 100Mbps Twisted Pair Technology Will Best Replace 10BaseT in a Microsoft NT Environment?
Abstract: The 10Mbps twisted pair Ethernet has been the network solution of computerized businesses up to recent years. New technologies and protocols have brought forth faster transfer rates and bandwidth required for the greater transfers of data. These new technologies include 100TX, 100VG, FDDI and ATM as the front runners of faster networking. This research will focus on the viability of 100TX and 100VG as replacements of existing 10BaseT in a network based on Microsoft NT Server and workstations. Which of the two technologies will best replace 10BaseT in an existing environment?
Author: Khanh Chau
Title: Network License Software Management System
Abstract: Software publishers have moved away from nodelocking licensing methods and site licensing methods toward concurrent licenses, an arrangement that is popular with corporate end-users because they buy only as many licenses as they are likely to use at one time. However, it is often difficult to tell how many people are actually using the package at any time across several networks. The concept of Network License Software Management System can be used to resolve the failure of nodelocking methods in multiprocessor microcomputer, the failure of site licensing in pricing software fairly. It will also help to improve the current concurrent licensing methods with the mechanism to track licenses used across networks. In other words, Network License Software Management System will manage software licenses so that end-users across networks can know the number of tokens (or licenses) available at a particular time. If all tokens are being used, an end-user can be queued for the next available license.
Author: Angel Flores
Title: Applying fuzzy logic to a simple control problem
Abstract: Fuzzy logic is a intuitive approach to the solution of real world problems. A simple control problem will be solved using fuzzy logic. A simple control circuit will be built and interfaced to an IBM computer. Simulation software will be used to illustrate basic fuzzy logic concepts.
Author: Rick Hatheway
Title: Performance vs. Utilization in an Ethernet Network
Abstract: CSMA/CD is the most popular data link protocol used in Ethernet local area networks. CSMA/CD stands for carrier sense multiple access with collision detection. Performance of this protocol on an Ethernet network is of great concern because of its wide installation base. The purpose of this paper is to explore utilization of an Ethernet network using CSMA/CD.

Utilization is defined as the ratio of total throughput of the network to its capacity. Simple performance models have been used to determine that an Ethernet network should be able to reach peaks of approximately 95% utilization. To what degree does performance suffer when the utilization level increases to higher levels. COMNET III, a performance analysis tool for communication networks, will be used to investigate performance when utilization rises above 50%. Performance will be measured using response delay which will quantify the real cost of utilization.

Author: Stanford Martinez
Title: Data access technology; is it keeping pace.
Abstract: Imagine this scenario. You work in the computing center of a company that has, letÕs say fifty workstations. Every day users complain about performance. At times they would type a character and have to wait one, two and up to three seconds before the character appears on the screen. One day your manager calls you into his office and gives you the project of your life. Now, this project could give you the much needed visibility for that promotion you asked for. After a couple of weeks of compiling network data load, monitoring machines CPU and memory, you suggest going for a sure shot, letÕs upgrade everything. Your manager follows your lead and bites the bullet, he spent $100k upgrading the network, machine CPU and memory. After everything is installed they only saw a minor increase in performance. So, you looked at the data again and noticed that there is a lot of disk I/O during the slowdown; suddenly the infamous light turned on, Òthe problem is the outdated disksÓ. Guess what was the first thing that came up during your next review.

One of the major task of a computer is to manipulate data. This data, in general, is usually located on a disk. So, the speed in which the computer retrieve and put data back on disk is very important for fast and effective data manipulation.

Three major players in the manipulation of data are the microprocessor, network and the disk or disk I/O. We frequently hear how microprocessors and networking technologies have evolved to incredible speeds. However we do not hear much about breakthroughs in disk I/O with as much a celebration.

This proposal will look at what is being done technology wise to increase the disk I/O. Some of the things I will be talking about are:

Author: Alfie Phillips
Title:
Abstract: Current UNIX scheduling algorithms typically favors interactive, input/output (I/O) intensive tasks. This gives interactive users priority when scheduling tasks for the CPU and may give the user a false sense of security in believing that they are the only one utilizing the computer. In reality, the CPU is executing multiple tasks; the user's request is suspended while the CPU is performing those tasks. Whenever the number of tasks the CPU is requested to perform increases, and its users are not anticipating this increase, a noticeable decrease in CPU performance is observed.

The purpose of this paper is to experiment with different scheduling algorithms and monitor the performance of the CPU to find one with improved performance for the mix of tasks under consideration.

To aid in monitoring the performance of the scheduling algorithms a model will be built which will facilitate experimentation and data collection. The data collected will help in identifying possible alternative algorithms that could improve system performance for the mix of tasks under consideration.

Author: David Schuster
Title: Using a Simple Genetic Algorithm to Solve 2-Dimensional Puzzles
Abstract: Standard methods of solving 2-dimension and 3-dimensional puzzles, such as the game of polyominoes or the RubikÕs cube, involve the methodical search of the solution space. The drawback of this method is that these puzzles produce an NP-complete problem domain, thus requiring exponentially increasing processing time as the puzzle size doubles. For large puzzles it becomes impractical to search the entire solution space, which may result in missed alternate solutions. This study examines the performance of using a Simple Genetic Algorithm, as described by Goldberg, to solve 2-dimensional puzzle problems.
Author: Mark Smith
Title: Unix SVR3 gettyd: An asynchronous device multiplexor for the Unix SVR3 operating system. Abstract: On Unix SVR3 systems using hard-wired terminals, each terminal is associated with a process known as a 'getty'. Each of these gettys spend their entire existence waiting on input to begin the logging-in sequence for a user. This is wasteful in terms of kernel process table entries and, since these processes simply sleep waiting on a device interrupt, they increase the size of the kernel's sleep queue. Using the select() system call designed at the University of California, Berkeley, the gettyd (getty daemon) is a true background daemon which listens on multiple terminal ports for inputs. By forking a getty only when keyboard input is present, the gettyd lowers the number of active processes in the process table and reduces the size of the kernel's sleep queue during periods of low use. An examination and comparison of the process table will be performed. In addition, the "glance" system performance monitor for Hewlett Packard systems will be used to determine any performance benefit.
Author: Kourosh Vahdani
Title:Virtual Printer Logging
Abstract: In semiconductor manufacturing environment, the aim is to reduce the number of airborne particles. However, most of the legacy equipment located in the wafer fabrication areas (fab), use a printer to output data needed by the users. As with any mechanical device, these printers due to moving parts (belts, gears, motors, ...) generate a great number of particulate. An Obvious method to reduce the number of airborne particles in the fab, is to remove the printers. The problem is that the output data from the printers is needed by the operators to run the equipment. In order to resolve this problem, a system is needed, so it can electronically display the data and handle data from different types of equipment. This paper will describe the sofware engineering methodology used to develop and implement such a system. The Virtual Printer Logging, referred to as VPL, allows the collection of status information from semiconductor factory based process equipment. The purpose is to provide an asynchronous RS-232 connection to this equipment, capture the status information, display this data real-time, log this information to a ASCII text file, and provide distribution file management services for the logged data. Also key to this application, is the configuration of asynchronous port information and file destination capabilities.

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Abstracts of Computer Information Science Papers

 Author: S. Elizabeth Arndt
Title: St. EdwardÕs Resident LifeÕs Summer Dorm Room Reservation System
Abstract: This seminar will discuss the development of the room reservation system for the Resident Life Office at St. EdwardÕs University. The system is a database that was developed using MicrosoftÕs FoxPro 2.6 for the Macintosh. The data base uses three tables, a customer data table, a reservation data table, and a dorm room table, to organize the data. A small program has been written to allow the system to handle the reservation of rooms for summer nightly rentals. In addition report formas have been created for the user to run. The system incorporates user friendly menus and buttons.
Author: Liang-Chieh Chen
Title: Title: The Purple Pages on Web (PPW)
The Higher Education Provider Consortium (HEPC) is creating many higher educational programs for Austin area business and industry. HEPC had sent out much information to Austin area business and industry. The information, The Capital Area Purple Pages, was sent by mail and it is not practicable for HEPC, business, and industry. PPW is putting the information on Web, so business and industry can have the information right away when they need it. Also, this project includes an E-mail application so business and industry can contact HEPC when they have questions. This survey form is created for HEPC to update their information to know what the business and industry need. The answer will be sent by E-mail to HEPC after the form is filled out.
Author: Eric Dreher
Title: Genesis Management Reporting Tool
Abstract: The Tandem Non-Stop Support Center management was in need of a tool to query an existing support database and produce eye-pleasing, meaningful reports. The database contains information on Tandem's customer sites, equipment and maintainence history as well as internal support information. Previous solutions were slow, difficult to use and required expensive equipment. A reporting tool has been written as an interface to the database through a World Wide Web server. The interface used via a World Wide Web browser allows users to access the database quickly, from a variety of platforms. Reports are produced in a minimum amount of time with a click of the mouse. Results are in a tabular format that can be saved to disk, emailed, or printed in multiple formats. SQL queries can be added as often as necessary to allow a greater flexibility. The tool resides on a local system yet is accessable to the entire Tandem internal wide area network.
Author: Jesus Gonzales
Title: Home Page Creation Program
Abstract: This program will allow students at St. Edward's University to create their own home page on the internet with out the knowledge of HTML. This program will prompt students with different questions and options through the use of buttons. The program will then create an html file and ask the user if they would like to save the file. If the file is saved, then it will be saved either on the hard drive or on a disk, then the html file can be installed on the internet.
Author: Sidney Hiser
Title: Faith Home Contacts Database
Abstract: Faith Home is a privately-owned, nonprofit, residential treatment facility for infants and children with HIV and AIDS, run by a husband and wife in their home. As there are seven children under the age of seven living at Faith Home, this couple relies heavily on donations of both time and money from the community. To help them accurately and easily track their contacts, this senior project provides a database that stores names and addresses of volunteers, donors, and community contacts; background information, preferred activities and work schedules, and hours worked for each volunteer; background information, and donations received for each donor; and a wide variety of formats for displaying the contact information, including mailing labels, and both summary and detailed reports. The Faith Home Contacts Database was created with Lotus¨ Approach(R), an inexpensive relational database package for Windows(TM).
Author: Ken Jensen
Title: Client Tracking Management System
Abstract: Blakeslee, Lewis & Company is a CPA firm in Pflugerville which provides tax preparation services, bookkeeping services, and audit services. The company had a need for an automated system that would track client information. In addition there was a need for report and query capabilities in the system. The company used a strictly manual system. In order to automate the necessary functions for the company a database management system was designed using File Maker Pro 2.0 for Windows. The system allows for the use of the existent Novell networked PCs in the office to run an user-friendly program that tracks tax returns, reduces storage costs, retains all past client information, and queries on-line. The system interface was designed to use pop-up menus to reduce the data-entry errors associated with keyboard input. Close consideration was given to future maintenance, and low software and hardware costs.
Author: Lynn Lealos
Title: MAIL/FAX DATABASE SYSTEM
Abstract: The Center for Public Policy has a need for a database system that maintains complete information about their subscribers. The often changing clerical personnel need to be trained rapidly with little fear of putting the system in jeopardy. The program must be easily updated with a low learning curve. There is a need for input screens with error checking on all fields that require direct input. As many fields as possible should be setup for logical input using the point and click method. There will be menus allowing the personnel to sort by fields for reports and mailing labels. The database will be relational due to the immense amount of information needed on the subscribers in order to limit the amount of data on the input screens. The present database is limited in its uses and is updated by a single user. The new system would automate the procedures and allow the Office Director to use their time on more deserving projects.
Author: PATRICIA MARTINEZ
Title: St. Edward's College Assistance Migrant Program Student Survey
Abstract: The St. EdwardÕs College Assistance Migrant Program surveys students at the end of their freshman semesters. This survey asks questions about the program. The survey was previously taken by the students on paper and then the secretary would manually compile the results. This was a slow and repetitive process that no one wanted to deal with. The CAMP Student Survey program has automated this process. Students can take the survey on a computer by using a number of screens and a point and click method with room for comments. This program has a screen with options to create different reports. These reports include graphs, comments, and numerical results from student answers.
Author: Kim Neville
Title: The Jazzercise Class Planner
Abstract: The Jazzercise Class Planner is an automated database/exercise class planner used by Jazzercise fitness instructors. It allows an instructor to plan a class, add a new song to the database, delete a song, and view or print a list of songs. When planning a class, the instructor is prompted to choose songs from a list for each class segment. The class planner keeps track of the lengths of each song and produces totals for the aerobic segment and for the whole class. After planning a class, there is an option to save the class and to print the class. Alternately, when planning a class, the instructor can choose from a list of already saved classes, make updates, delete songs, and save the class under a different name. When adding a new song to the database, there is a simple input screen prompting the user for information such as name of song, length of song, and type of movement. When printing a list of songs, there is a choice to print the entire list, or just a subset by a certain category. This program was developed in Microsoft Access.
Author: Elena Ramirez
Title: Tape Inventory System
Abstract: A problem that exists at large computer sites is the managing of the multitude of magnetic tape cartridges on which valuable data is stored for onsite backups, offsite archives, offsite microfiche processing, and other offsite data requirements. While some sites have the monetary and system resources to acquire and support a fully automated tape library system which may include robotic access of the tapes and inventory reporting capabilities, many sites do not. Therefore, a Tape Inventory System was developed in-house to provide online access, including query, update, add, and delete of an individual tape or range of tapes by system identification code or run identification code. The system facilitates inventory reporting of tapes by system identification code or numerical tape number order; reporting capabilities of microfiche tapes and offsite tapes, and tape usage/error counts. This system manages around 5000 magnetic tapes and utilizes about five mb of cached disk storage on a UNISYS 2200/400 mainframe.
Author: Lucille R. Westbrook
Title: A Travel Expense Accounting System Using FOCUS , a Fourth Generation Programming Language and Database Management System
Abstract: A Travel Expense Accounting System to record and then report estimated and actual travel expenses for employees at the Applied Research Laboratory. The proposed Travel Expense Accounting system needed to be designed and implemented using FOCUS on a VAX/VMS system so that it could be compatible with other existing administrative and accounting systems at the Laboratory. The system features include a menu driven user interface to Modify three FOCUS databases, a selection of reports, archival capabilities, download capabilities, e-Mail, and an on-line Browse/Help facility containing previews of various report format structures for users. The system is scheduled to be migrated to a SUN/UNIX and then on to a SUN/Solaris 2.0 system in April 1996.

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Abstracts of Math Papers

 Author: Jill Bailey
Title:
Abstract:
Author: Robin Boehnemann
Title:
Abstract: The definition of the problem of circle packing will be given, along with a brief history. Objects will be brought in to illustrate simple examples. The main concentration will be on packing eight congruent circles into an equilateral triangle, and packing nine congruent circles into a square. Visuals will be used to help explain, and formulas will be given. Finally, other applications will be discussed.
Author: Ming Chen Chien
Title:A Nonlinear Recurrence Yielding Binary Digits
Abstract: Stanley Robinowitz and Peter Gilbert defined a sequence U(n) by the recurrence formula U(n+1)=|_a(U(n) + 1/2)_| and |_b(U(n) + 1/2)_|. The values a and b are the odd and even values of n. Then, U(2n) = |_2^(n-m-1)(2^m+w)_|, U(2n+1) = |_2^(n-m-1)(2^(m+1)+w)_| and the quantity U(2n+1)-2U(2n-1) will always yield binary digits. The purpose of the research is to define U(n+1) in terms of three quantities a, b, and c, depending on whether n is congruent to 0, 1, or 2 (mod 3) and to determine for what values of a, b, and c will U(2n+2)-2U(2n) yield binary digits.
Author: Pablo Cortez
Title: Rational Periodic Points of the Quadratic Function Qc(x) = x2 +c
Abstract: The family of quadratic maps, Qc(x) = x2 + c, plays a fundamental role in the study of one dimensional dynamics. In this research I examine some of the periodic orbits of Qc that can be precisely computed, those which consist of rational numbers. Results have been obtained that describe explicitly which of the Qc have both rational fixed points and rational period two points as well as those which have rational period three orbits. However, do periodic orbits of periods greater than three exist? This question is the basis of my research.
Author: Edvardo Cue
Title:Principles of Number Theory
Abstract: During the presentation I will show the basics of number theory, the use of modulos, and how these can lead to several equations such as the Euclidean algorithm. I will also talk about Fermat's theorem and the different ways it can be solved using the Chinese remainder theorem. In the presentation I will also include some of the applications of the number theory such as coding, its application in computers and how physicists apply it.
Author: Juan Diego Gonzales
Title:Nonlinear Recurrence Formulas Yielding Binary Digits
Abstract: Stanley Robinowitz and Peter Gilbert defined a sequence U(n) by the recurrence
U(1)=1
U(n+1)=|_a(U(n) + 1/2)_| if n is odd or |_b(U(n) + 1/2)_| if n is even
such that U(n+2) -2U(n) is the (n=1)st digit of the binary expansion of w. I chose to persue a simpler problem stated by the two authors in the article. They define a sequence U(n) by the recurrence
U(1) = L2 + wl
U(n+1) = |_a(U(n)+1/2)_| if n is odd or |_b(U(n)+1/2)_| if n is even
such that U(2n+2) -2U(2n) is the nth digit to the right of the radix point in the binary expansion of w.
Author: CHIU-WEI KO
Title: Differential Equations on Heat Conduction
Abstract: There are four main topics on differential equations on heat conduction, which are heat conduction on one, two and three dimensions as well as perodic heat conduction. Under each topic, we are going to show the procress of getting the formula for different situations and several examples will be given in order to help students apply the formulas with the problems.
Author: Gwyn Waterfield
Title: The Chaotic Mapping Xn+1 =(1+ë)Xn mod1 and Its Probability Distribution
Abstract: There is a connection between chaotic mappings and probability distributions. From the specific mapping Xn+1 =(1+ë)Xn mod1 a histogram can represent the x values in the sequence and can then be replaced by a probability density function. The graphs of the probability density functions show different behaviors depending on the value of ë. The mapping will be shown to be chaotic and some of the graphs of the probability density functions will be examined.

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This page last updated March 22, 1996.

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