2025 SE&T Symposium

B01.  Long-Term Patterns in native and stocked populations of Lake Trout Weight and Abundance in Lake Superior 

Abby Medler^*, Hannah Fazekas, Emma Wright

Faculty Advisor: Dr. Hannah Fazekas

Lake trout (Salvelinus namaycush) are a key species in the Great Lakes with both stocked and native populations contributing to the ecosystems. This project investigates how weight and abundance have changed over time between stocked Lake trout and Native lake trout in Lake Superior. Our objective is to better understand lake trout development and the ecological patterns influencing their growth. Data was obtained from research vessel operations conducted by the US Geological Survey and the Great Lakes Science Center. We used the statistical software R to examine temporal trends across life stages. Initial observations show that Lake trout yearlings are significantly heavier than Native lake trout yearlings (p < 0.001), while adult weights do not differ significantly (p = 0.62). Additionally, Native lake trout were sampled more frequently overall (p < 0.001), especially at the yearling stage (p = 0.002). These differences may reflect ecological or environmental factors that influence growth and survival. Understanding these patterns can help inform fisheries management decisions and contribute to long-term ecological stability in the Great Lakes.

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B02.  Changes in Lake Superior Food Web Dynamics Over Time

Emma C. Wright^*, Abigail K. Medler, Hannah M. Fazekas

Faculty Advisor: Dr. Hannah Fazekas

The Great Lakes have experienced several changes throughout the Anthropocene. Lake Superior, the largest of the Great Lakes, has undergone significant ecological changes driven by invasive species, climate change, and management interventions. It is suggested that issues such as the invasion of sea lamprey in Lake Superior during the 1940s, rising temperatures that have become more pronounced since the 1980s, and delayed regulations on the environmental health of the Great Lakes during the U.S. environmental movement in the 1970s have collectively led to the changes observed between the mid 1900s and early 2000s. This study analyzed how food web dynamics have varied every spanning 1960-2010, focusing on shifts in populations and trophic interactions. The data for this project was retrieved from the research vessel operations by the US Geological Survey and the Great Lakes Science Center. The one hundred twenty-seven fish species were classified into five distinct trophic levels. We present data on the relative abundance of each trophic level within Lake Superior during each decade mark. Notable shifts in the trophic level relative abundance may indicate ecological disturbances in Lake Superior within the previous decade. Understanding these trends is essential for predicting future ecological trajectories and developing adaptive conservation strategies for Lake Superior.

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B03.  Revitalization and Digitization of the Steve Taber Insect Collection for Knowledge and Science (STICKS) at SVSU

Mars Gregory^*, Zoe Farrand^*, Cal Borden, Jorge R. Paredes-Montero

Faculty Advisors: Dr. Cal Borden, Dr. Jorge Paredes-Montero

The STICKS collection at Saginaw Valley State University houses thousands of insect specimens collected from mid-Michigan and other Midwestern states, dating back to the early 1970s. Among these specimens are new species and their holotypes, which are not found anywhere else in the world, identified for the first time by Dr. Steve Taber († ), former SVSU professor. This collection is a valuable resource for understanding regional biodiversity and supports both research and education. However, like many biological collections worldwide, curation [sorting, identification, labelling, databasing] and proper care for specimens are increasingly difficult due to limited funding and challenges associated with uncontrolled environments of storage facilities. This project aims to digitize the STICKs collection, creating an online archive that will make it accessible to students, external researchers, and the public.

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B04.  An environmental DNA (eDNA) study of pollinator biodiversity along an urban-to-rural gradient

Olivia Konsdorf

Faculty Advisor: Dr. Jorge R. Paredes-Montero

(Located in Curtiss Hall)

This research will investigate the influence of urbanization on pollinator biodiversity within the Saginaw Bay region. Environmental DNA (eDNA) analysis will be employed to assess four collection sites, representing varying urbanization levels along an Urban-to-Rural gradient (Natural, Rural, Urban-Rural, Suburban, and Urban environments), with an additional collection site in an undisturbed natural habitat. The top four flowering plant species will be identified at each site. A total of 120 samples will be collected. DNA will be from these samples using the CTAB lysis buffer and the chloroform-phenol separation method. Specific molecular markers will be used to validate and categorize pollinator communities. The significance of this research lies in understanding the potential ecological impact of urbanization on pollinator communities, considering their fundamental role in ecosystem health and food production. The project's results will contribute to informed conservation strategies and biodiversity management in the face of urban expansion.

 

B05.  Non-native cheatgrass (Bromus tectorum) is a better competitor than native western wheatgrass (Pascopyrum smithii) in a greenhouse experiment

Anthony Oswald^*, Wyatt Sac^*, Brian Maricle

Faculty Advisor: Dr. Brian Maricle

Understanding competition dynamics between plants is crucial to understanding potential community level changes within any environment. This is especially important when considering possible interactions between species during an invasion. This experiment set out to understand the competitive interactions between non-native grass species cheatgrass (Bromus tectorum) and native species western wheatgrass (Pascopyrum smithii). Biomass of each species, numbers of plants, and leaf chlorophyll were measured in a replacement series, with varying seed proportions, in low and high nitrogen conditions. The non-native cheatgrass outcompeted the native western wheatgrass. This competitive ability was particularly notable under high nitrogen conditions, as evidenced by biomass in mixed pots and by nitrogen uptake. Increasing numbers of cheatgrass individuals had a larger impact on competitive interactions than numbers of western wheatgrass individuals. Leaf chlorophyll concentrations (a proxy for nitrogen status) were not influenced by changing seed proportions in low nitrogen conditions. But under high nitrogen, leaf chlorophyll concentrations were decreased in native western wheatgrass with increasing proportion of non-native cheatgrass. These results indicate a superior ability of non-native cheatgrass to acquire resources and occupy space in pots, especially under conditions of increased soil nitrogen. These conditions could favor the establishment of non-native cheatgrass in environments affected by nitrogen runoff.

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B06.  Experimental study of uptake and spread of microplastics in green onions

Alex Sullivan

Faculty Advisor: Dr. Brian Maricle

Plastic pollution has caught public attention for its possible human health impacts. Plastics have limited chemical degradation, instead they primarily degrade physically. This means that they get smaller and smaller but remain as plastic polymers. Microplastics are plastic particles that are less than 5 millimeters in size. These primarily arise from larger pieces of plastic and work their way into water streams, soil, and other parts of the environment. Once they enter the environment, it is not fully understood what happens to them. This research is looking at a mechanistic way microplastics could get into the plants that become food. This experiment looks to find what physiological, biological, and biochemical changes occur when green onions are subject to microplastic contamination. In this experiment, plants have been suspended in bowls with specified microplastic concentrations and were given time to grow hydroponically. Dissections of roots and bulbs were performed, and this showed microplastics were visible in roots under the microscope. Microplastics can get in the roots, but farther than that has not yet been demonstrated. The effects of microplastics on leaf length, leaf count, number of new roots, and the amount of water transpired are being studied. Data are being collected, and these findings will be validated by further testing with more trials. These tests will run through the next academic year. With the prevalence and abundance of disposable plastics in our world, it is crucial to understand the effects of microplastics on plants and their broader impacts.

 

B07.  Longitudinal Measurement of Coliform Levels in Campus Bodies of Water

Viola Cole 

Faculty Advisor: Dr. Jonathan Lecureux

Contamination of waters by coliform bacteria can indicate fecal contamination. In order to measure the levels of coliforms in bodies of water on campus, undergraduate students in BIOL237 took water samples and used Rapid E.coli Petrifilm tests to measure coliform loads. This data was collected over several semesters and compiled and analyzed by a student researcher. These results represent a longitudinal assessment of coliforms on campus, and are the first steps of a larger study to observe antibiotic resistance in bacteria on campus.

 

B08.  Temperature Requirements for Pigmented Bacteria Used in Local Outreach

Marcello Gonzalez

Faculty Advisor: Dr. Jonathan Lecureux

We utilize pigmented bacteria for local outreach with nearby elementary schools. However, a consistent problem has been the growth conditions of these bacteria in order to grow them consistently prior to their use in outreach. In order to identify the optimal growth conditions for these bacteria we conducted a series of growth experiments. We were able to identify the best overall growth temperature to prepare our bacteria for use in outreach. This also sets up future work to isolate and test the pigments of these bacteria.

 

B09.  Endosymbiont Metacommunities and Ecological Resilience in Native and Invasive Bemisia tabaci

Ella Randolph*, Maria A. Ibarra-Matamoros, Rebecca D. Fredenburg, Olivia Konsdorf, Jorge R. Paredes-Montero

Faculty Advisor: Dr. Jorge Paredes-Montero

(Located in Curtiss Hall)

Bemisia tabaci is a major agricultural pest and plant virus vector. The introduction of invasive “superbug” types B and Q into the Americas has led to widespread displacement of native B. tabaci through competitive exclusion and asymmetric mating. Yet in some regions, endemic populations persist and even thrive, suggesting underlying ecological or physiological resilience. Endosymbiotic bacteria may contribute to this resilience by enhancing host fitness and adaptation. This study investigates the diversity of endosymbiont communities in B. tabaci, with a focus on altitudinal gradients in Ecuador as a model system. Findings may help explain how microbial associations influence whitefly persistence and adaptation under invasion pressure—insights relevant to broader agroecosystems worldwide.

 

B10.  Comparative Analysis of Aquaponic Cultivation of Cucumis sativus

Elisabeth Bragg*, Jenna Glazier*, Caroline Townley

Faculty Advisor: Dr. Holly Little

With approximately 757 million facing chronic hunger (World Food Programme, 2025), food insecurity continues to be a humanitarian crisis. This problem is expected to persist as a result of increasing global population and limited land availability for food production. The implementation of sustainable alternatives to conventional agriculture is necessary for progress towards global food security. Soilless agriculture techniques, such as aquaponics, are methods of food production that can reduce water use, synthetic inputs, and land usage. The primary focus of research in the SVSU greenhouse is to better understand the potential of aquaponics to increase food security in a sustainable way. In aquaponics, nutrient-rich waste produced by aquatic organisms, including goldfish, koi, pleco, turtles, crayfish, and snails promotes the growth of plants. Recent trials have evaluated commercially available gynoecious parthenocarpic varieties of Cucumis sativus (cucumber), including Diva, Excelsior, Katrina, and Picolino. These strains only produce female flowers and can produce fruit without pollination, so are well suited to year-round greenhouse production. Yield data and growth parameters were collected throughout each growth cycle. Comparative analysis shows significant differences in fruit production between cultivars, with Picolino and Katrina giving higher yields in this aquaponic environment. Results of these comparative studies will be presented.

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B12.  Understanding the Mechanism of the Lipid A Component of Lipopolysaccharide (LPS)

Jordan Nowicki, Brendin Broeders, Ian Schetter, Elizabeth Bennett, Ember Poole, Ashwin Mudaliyar

Faculty Advisor: Dr. James McEvoy

Lipopolysaccharides (LPS), also known as endotoxin, are components of the outer membrane of Gram-negative bacteria. LPS consists of three domains: Lipid A, an oligosaccharide core, and the O antigen. Lipid A is the toxic center of LPS and is responsible for its endotoxic effects. The two phosphate groups and two acyloxyacyl moieties on the Lipid A are needed to trigger the endotoxin response in human cells (Raetz, et. al.). This proposed research aims to confirm that the Lipid A domain directly contributes to LPS-induced damage to human erythrocytes by compromising membrane integrity. It is hypothesized that erythrocytes incubated with LPS will exhibit significant cell loss over 24 hours compared to controls without LPS exposure. These findings could provide critical insights into the mechanisms of endotoxin-induced hemolysis and its broader implications for human health.

 

B13.  Enumerating and Quantifying Hepatitis C in Wastewater using RNA Extraction 

Michael Kennelly, Andrea Herdman, Brendin Broeders, Ember Poole

Faculty Advisor: Dr. Ken Luzynski (BIOL 442)

Hepatitis C virus (HCV) is a bloodborne, positive-stranded RNA virus from the Flaviviridae family, primarily transmitted through infected blood. While numerous studies have examined Hepatitis A and E in wastewater, limited research exists on detecting HCV in wastewater due to its primary transmission route and disposal protocols. This study aimed to analyze seasonal trends of HCV in wastewater samples collected from a mid-sized community in lower Michigan. Our null hypothesis stated that the month of wastewater collection does not affect the viral load per sample. Wastewater samples were collected seasonally (March, June, September, and December) and processed using the TRIzol RNA extraction method. Reverse transcription was performed to convert extracted RNA into complementary DNA (cDNA). Quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) was conducted using primers targeting the POLY gene, which encodes a conserved RNA-dependent RNA polymerase (RdRp). Phi-6 was used as a reference gene for relative quantification. The viral load was determined using the 2^(-ΔCt) method, where ΔCt was calculated by subtracting the Ct value of HCV from that of Phi-6, followed by multiplication by 100 to express results in copies/µL. Statistical analysis included the Shapiro-Wilk test for normality and the Kruskal-Wallis test for homogeneity. If assumptions were met, a one-way ANOVA was conducted, followed by post hoc tests if significance was observed. If assumptions were violated, a Mann-Whitney U test was performed. This study provides insights into seasonal variations in HCV prevalence in wastewater, contributing to public health surveillance efforts.

 

B14.  Variability of Norovirus Viral Load in Wastewater Samples

Rachel Rustad, Gracie Blust, Carson Hersch, Rileigh Garbarz

Faculty Advisor: Dr. Ken Luzynski (BIOL 442)

Our research aims to describe the effects of seasons on the presence of Norovirus in wastewater from a mid-sized community in lower Michigan. To find the viral load of different months of the year (March, June, September, and December) we found primers that target the Southampton virus-type processing peptidase gene, which is found in ORF1. After the wastewater sample was collected and primers were determined, a TRIzol extraction protocol was used to obtain the viral RNA present in the sample. Then, using quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR), the quantification of the Norovirus gene copies present in a sample of wastewater was determined. Understanding the seasonal trends of Norovirus in wastewater can assist public health officials in improving early warning systems for outbreaks and developing reduction strategies in lower Michigan communities. 

 

B15.  Detecting West Nile Virus RNA in Wastewater: A Novel Approach for Early Surveillance

Alyssa Benit, Ellie Browne, Ian Liebler, Isaiah Martinez 

Faculty Advisor: Dr. Ken Luzynski (BIOL 442)

West Nile Virus (WNV), a member of the Flaviviridae family, can cause severe neurological conditions such as encephalitis and meningitis. While primarily transmitted through mosquito bites, WNV has also been detected in human waste. This study investigates the seasonal prevalence of WNV in wastewater in a mid-sized community in lower Michigan. Wastewater samples were collected during March, June, September, and December as representatives for the four seasons. RNA was extracted using the TRIzol method, quantified via Nanodrop, and reverse transcribed to cDNA. Quantitative PCR (qPCR) was performed targeting the POLY gene of WNV, with Phi-6 as an internal control. qPCR data, including Ct, ∆Ct, and 2^-∆Ct values, were analyzed to determine viral load in each sample. Potential statistical analyses tests, include Shapiro-Wilk and Levene tests, which examine for data normality and homogeneity. Depending on the data distribution, additional testing may be performed including a one-way ANOVA or nonparametric Kruskal-Wallis tests to assess seasonal variations in WNV prevalence. This project provides novel insights into the seasonal trends of WNV in wastewater. Understanding these patterns can inform public health strategies aimed at mitigating viral transmission.

 

B16.  Seasonal analysis of eastern equine encephalitis virus in wastewater

Jenna Picard, Brook Rousseau, Landon Boensch, Sarah Veale

Faculty Advisor: Dr. Ken Luzynski (BIOL 442)

Eastern equine encephalitis (EEE) is an RNA virus that can be transmitted to humans through mosquitos. It can cause damage to the neurological system and eventually death. This experiment studied the presence and viral load between different months of EEEV in wastewater samples collected throughout counties near Saginaw, Michigan. In order to test how viral load changes throughout different months, samples from the months of March, June, September, and December were obtained. Reverse transcription quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) was performed to quantify and detect the existence of EEEV. Statistical analyses were performed to determine the difference in viral load between the different months of wastewater samples. This data can be essential in public health efforts to monitor and mitigate harmful viral infections in the area.

 

B17.  Seasonal Detection of Human Rhinovirus A. in Wastewater Samples

Abigale Wisenbach, Simona Stefanovska, Dawson White, Cassidy Peake

Faculty Advisor: Dr. Ken Luzynski (BIOL 442)

Human Rhinovirus (HRV) is a leading cause of respiratory infections, yet its seasonal prevalence remains poorly understood. Wastewater-based experiments are a growing method for tracking viral spread and understanding transmission patterns within communities. This study investigates HRV presence in wastewater from a midsized community in lower Michigan to explore potential seasonal transmission patterns.
Wastewater samples were collected over several months (March, June, September, and December), and viral RNA was extracted using TRIzol reagent. Primer sets were selected and matched using the UCSC Genome Browser, and the target region codes for multiple functional proteins, including those essential for viral replication and infection. Reverse transcription-quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) was performed to measure HRV gene copies. To analyze if there were significant differences in HRV presence among the different samples, SPSS Statistics was utilized to perform numerous quantitative evaluations. By analyzing HRV concentrations in wastewater from different months, this study seeks to determine whether seasonal fluctuations correlate with HRV transmission. Using a non-invasive and cost-efficient approach, the findings could contribute to a better understanding of HRV and aid public health monitoring efforts.

 

B18.  Seasonal Surveillance of Influenza A in Municipal Wastewater

Josh Anderson, Ian Schetter, Chloe Bruner, Ashley Spencer

Faculty Advisor: Dr. Ken Luzynski (BIOL 442)

This study evaluated seasonal Influenza A Virus (IAV) trends by collecting wastewater samples quarterly from a treatment plant serving over 20,000 people. Viral RNA was extracted from samples and quantified using quantitative PCR (qPCR), targeting the PB2 gene of Influenza A. Statistical analyses were conducted to determine if significant seasonal differences in Flu A RNA concentrations correlated with seasonality. Understanding these seasonal patterns may help communities better anticipate influenza outbreaks and enhance public health preparedness. So really, how much flu is in our poo?

 

B19.  Sewage Signals; Monitoring RSV Outbreaks Through Wastewater

Brenna Janisse, Luke Hanson, James Bodrie, Darrien Downing 

Faculty Advisor: Dr. Ken Luzynski (BIOL 442)

The goal of this project is to look at the presence of Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) during different seasons of the year in wastewater. The presence of RSV during March, June, September, and December was observed. This was done by using RNA extraction techniques and quantifying by RT-qPCR. By quantifying RSV RNA in wastewater samples, we aim to assess temporal patterns of RSV circulation and evaluate the utility of wastewater based RT-qPCR for respiratory virus monitoring. These findings may support public health preparedness by informing early warning systems and optimizing medical resource allocation during RSV-heavy seasons. 

 

B20.  Reconstructing the Meiotic Exit Pathway in Parthenogenetic Marbled Crayfish (Procambarus virginalis): A Comparative Transcriptomic Approach

Zachary D. Stevens

Faculty Advisor: Dr. Jorge Paredes-Montero (BIOL 443)

Marbled crayfish (Procambarus virginalis) reproduce through obligate parthenogenesis, bypassing fertilization yet maintaining successful embryonic development. This study explores how the absence of fertilization impacts regulation of the meiotic exit pathway, which is typically triggered by sperm entry in sexually reproducing species. Using a comparative transcriptomic approach, we analyzed the expression of key fertilization-dependent genes in P. virginalis relative to its sexual counterpart, Procambarus clarkii.

 

B21.  Comparative Microbiome Profiling Across Body Sites and Populations in Breast Cancer Patients and Healthy Controls

Delaney Randall, Selma Brockhaus, Lauren Cleckner

Faculty Advisor: Dr. Jorge Paredes-Montero (BIOL 443)

This study investigates microbiome composition across multiple body sites in breast cancer patients and healthy individuals. Publicly available paired-end 16S rRNA amplicon sequences were retrieved from the Sequence Read Archive (SRA), including stool, nasopharyngeal, and tumor tissue samples from individuals across diverse geographic regions. We compared microbial community structure and diversity between breast cancer patients and healthy controls to identify site-specific and disease-associated microbial profiles.

 

B22.  Structure and Function Prediction of Uncharacterized Transcripts Using Bioinformatic Tools

Nathaniel James, James Bodrie, Abigale Wisenbach

Faculty Advisor: Dr. Jorge Paredes-Montero (BIOL 443)

This project explores the structural and functional potential of uncharacterized transcripts identified from RNA-seq data. Transcriptomes from two conditions will be annotated, and a subset of novel or unknown sequences will be selected based on uniqueness or shared expression patterns. Predicted protein structures and possible functions will be generated using AlphaFold2, offering insights into their biological relevance.

 

B23.  Identification and Phylogenetic Analysis of Antibiotic Resistance Genes in Klebsiella pneumoniae Strains

Ian Liebler, Isaiah Martinez, Josh Anderson

Faculty Advisor: Dr. Jorge Paredes-Montero (BIOL 443)

This project investigates the diversity and evolution of antibiotic resistance genes in Klebsiella pneumoniae using publicly available genome data from GenBank. Resistance genes will be identified across multiple strains, and their presence, distribution, and genetic contexts will be examined. Phylogenetic analyses will be conducted to explore evolutionary relationships among strains and potential patterns of gene acquisition.

 

B24.  Identifying Beta-Lactamase Genes in Healthcare-Associated Infection Pathogens Using Public Genomic Data

Gracie Blust, Noelle Robertson, Autumn Wenglikowski

Faculty Advisor: Jorge Paredes-Montero (BIOL 443)

This undergraduate research project explores the presence of beta-lactamase genes, key markers of antibiotic resistance, in bacterial strains linked to healthcare-associated infections (HAIs). Genome sequences were retrieved from public databases and screened for resistance genes using BLAST against curated reference sets.

 

B25.  GC Content Analysis as a Tool to Detect Horizontal Gene Transfer and Virulence in Escherichia coli

Cassidy Peake, Jenn Picard, Rileigh Garbarz

Faculty Advisor: Jorge Paredes-Montero (BIOL 443)

This project aims to identify regions of horizontal gene transfer (HGT) in Escherichia coli genomes by analyzing variation in GC content and exploring potential links to virulence. DNA acquired through HGT often exhibits GC composition that differs from the host genome, making GC content a useful indicator of foreign gene acquisition. By comparing the GC profiles of pathogenic and non-pathogenic strains, we detected anomalous regions that may reflect horizontally transferred DNA. This approach provides insight into the genomic signatures of HGT and its contribution to the evolution of virulence in E. coli.

 

B26.  Orca Ecotype Evolution & Genetic Drivers of Behavior

Emma Wright, Abby Meddler, Logan Green

Faculty Advisor: Jorge Paredes-Montero (BIOL 443)

This project explores the genetic basis of behavioral diversity among orca (Orcinus orca) ecotypes by identifying genes under positive selection. Orca ecotypes exhibit distinct social behaviors and hunting strategies across geographic regions, suggesting local adaptation shaped by ecological pressures. We hypothesize that genes under positive selection are linked to these behavioral traits and that ecotypes with similar lifestyles may share common genetic adaptations.

 

B27.  Phylogenetic Analysis of Antifungal Resistance Genes in Candida auris

Will Muron, Landon Boensch, Malachi Mitchell

Faculty Advisor: Jorge Paredes-Montero (BIOL 443)

This project analyzes antifungal resistance genes in Candida auris using phylogenetic methods. Genome assemblies were retrieved from NCBI, and resistance genes such as ERG11 and FKS1 were identified using BLAST. Sequences were aligned with MAFFT, and phylogenetic trees were generated using RAxML to compare allele variation across strains. The goal is to detect sequence divergence and potential patterns of gene evolution related to antifungal resistance.

 

B28.  Gene Expression Changes Associated with Alzheimer’s Disease in Humans

Chloe Bruner, Kalie Murphy, Alexanna Taylor

Faculty Advisor: Jorge Paredes-Montero (BIOL 443)

This project investigates mRNA expression patterns associated with Alzheimer’s disease using publicly available RNA-seq data. The dataset includes human brain tissue samples representing different disease states. Differential expression analysis will be used to identify genes with altered expression in Alzheimer’s disease, followed by functional annotation to explore their potential roles in neurodegenerative processes.

 

B29.  Environmental DNA-Based Detection of Lake Sturgeon in Michigan Lakes

Mars Gregory, Paige Peterman, Olivia Konsdorf

Faculty Advisor: Jorge Paredes-Montero (BIOL 443)

This project uses publicly available environmental DNA (eDNA) sequencing data to detect the presence of Lake Sturgeon (Acipenser fulvescens) in Michigan lakes. We analyzed 12S rRNA amplicon datasets to identify occurrences of sturgeon DNA. This approach demonstrates how existing eDNA data can be used to study species distribution patterns across freshwater ecosystems.

 

B30.  Temporal and Geographic Phylogenetic Analysis of the SARS-CoV-2 Spike Protein

Mary McCormack, Brook Rousseau, Emily Hanson

Faculty Advisor: Jorge Paredes-Montero (BIOL 443)

The SARS-CoV-2 spike (S) protein is central to viral infectivity and immune recognition. In this study, we examine the global evolution of the spike protein by constructing a phylogeny using publicly available sequences sampled across different regions and time points. Spike gene sequences were aligned and analyzed to assess lineage divergence and regional clustering. By integrating sequence data with sampling dates and locations, we explore the temporal and geographic patterns of spike protein evolution. This analysis offers insight into the global spread and diversification of SARS-CoV-2 variants, contributing to our understanding of viral adaptation.

 

C01.  Investigating GC-MS Strategies for Quantifying Acidic and Thermolabile Pesticides of Concern

Mikayla Lietzke*, Andrew Paulson

Faculty Advisor: Dr. Andrew Paulson

Systematic monitoring of pesticides in the Saginaw Bay watershed would support a more comprehensive understanding of the watershed and guide management practices to maximize benefits and minimize costs for all stakeholders. Through a literature survey, we identified twelve pesticides of potential biological concern that are particularly relevant to the Saginaw Bay watershed. Most of these pesticides are amenable to gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS), a chemical analysis technique. Our current work evaluates strategies for analyzing four pesticides (2,4 D, triclopyr, bentazon, and diuron) with poor amenability to GC-MS. Our progress includes comparing three derivatization agents that improve analyte volatility and/or thermal stability during GC-MS analysis. One derivatization strategy, methylation by trimethylsilyl diazomethane, proved to have the greatest analyte coverage, providing observable derivatives of three of the four analytes (2,4-D, triclopyr, bentazon). Additionally, a thermal degradant of the fourth pesticide (diuron) was identified and shows promise for the quantitation of diuron in the original samples. These findings will guide future method development as we work toward a comprehensive spatial and temporal monitoring of pesticides in the Saginaw Bay watershed.

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C02.  Synthesis of Gold Nanostructures and Evaluation of Enhanced Raman Scattering Characteristics

Grant Hollingsworth^*, Emma DeYoung, Andrew E. Paulson

Faculty Advisor: Dr. Andrew Paulson

The objective of this project is to develop an adhesive analysis substrate with multifunctional capabilities, including surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) and surface-assisted laser desorption/ionization–mass spectrometry (SALDI-MS). Although many applications exist, such a substrate could be utilized in forensic fingermark analysis, where lifting and subsequent analysis by two confirmatory analytical techniques can be performed with minimal sample preparation and minimal evidence destruction. The proposed substrates are based on citrate-capped gold nanostructures. Our current progress involves the synthesis and characterization of gold nanospheres and gold nanocorals. Visual inspection and UV-vis extinction spectra suggest reproducibility issues across nanostructure synthesis batches. However, Raman scattering measurements of rhodamine 6G, a common Raman standard, show enhanced Raman scattering for some of the synthesis batches. Our preliminary findings demonstrate SERS enhancement for both the nanospheres and nanocorals, prompting a need for further investigation and comparison. Immediate directions forward include further characterization of the nanoparticles with electron microscopy techniques, improvement of synthesis reproducibility, optimization of Raman enhancement, and evaluation of the nanostructure performance when applied to adhesive substrates.

 

C03.  Aryl-C-Glycosides: A Potential Treatment for Diabetes Type II

Jersey Schram^*, Ashton Papajesk^*, Jennifer Chaytor

Faculty Advisor: Dr. Jennifer Chaytor

(Poster located in Curtiss Hall)

Type II diabetes is a relatively common disease that affects over 11% of Americans [1]. The root cause is increased insulin resistance in cells, and results in an increased risk of stroke, kidney disease, nerve damage, and heart disease. Although nutrition and exercise may help manage diabetes, other forms of treatment can include insulin and other medications. Alternative medications seek to inhibit the Alpha-glucosidase (AG) enzyme and/or the sodium-glucose co-transporter 2 (SGLT-2) to regulate glucose levels. Another hypothesized medication is an aryl-C-glycoside, which may have the potential to demonstrate characteristics of AG and SGLT-2 inhibitors due to structural similarities. The current synthetic pathway our lab is pursuing utilizes a silyl enol ether intermediate that is coupled to a glycoside, which is then converted to an aryl-C-glycoside. Previous attempts to replicate a product in a silyl enol ether reaction, which is a key product in the whole synthesis, were either unsuccessful or produced limited quantities. However, modifications we made to the existing procedure proved successful in the creation of that key product. Purification of the product is through column chromatography, with identification using nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy (NMR). This presentation will walk through the modifications made and how they contributed to a successful synthesis.

[1] CDC. (2024, May 15). National diabetes statistics report. CDC. https://www.cdc.gov/diabetes/php/data-research/index.html, Accessed Mar. 11 2025

* denotes presenter

 

C04.  Optimization of Iron Oxide Nanoparticles for Magnetic and Electrical Characterization

Ashley Hoffman*, Kavi Senanayake, Matthew Vannette

Faculty Advisor: Dr. Kavi Senanayake, Dr. Matthew Vannette

(Poster located in Curtiss Hall)

Iron oxide nanoparticles (IONPs) are valuable due to their superparamagnetic and dielectric properties, making them suitable for applications in magnetic separation, targeted drug delivery, cancer hyperthermia, and memory storage devices. This project aims to optimize the synthesis of IONPs for studying their physical properties, such as magnetic susceptibility, determined by frequency shifts in electrical components like inductors. The goal is to create stable, superparamagnetic nanoparticles with consistent sizes, crucial for accurate measurement of how these materials respond to magnetic fields and how their properties change at different frequencies. The synthesized nanoparticles will be introduced to a Cole-Pitts oscillator to study these frequency shifts. To achieve this, the proposed research will focus on developing better synthesis methods beyond such as the hydrothermal method, which allows better control of the size and stability of IONPs, which is crucial for enhancing their functionality. Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) was used for imaging and analysis to assess nanoparticle morphology, size distribution, and uniformity. This approach aims to enhance the functionality of IONPs, broadening their applications in technologies.

* denotes presenter

 

C05.  Comparative Analysis of Chloro and Methoxy Benzene Substituents on Antimicrobial Efficacy: A Cross Domain Study with Implications for Antimicrobial Design

Ella Yantz

Faculty Advisor: Dr. Michael Coote

This research investigates the differential antimicrobial efficacy of benzene derivatives with chloro versus methoxy substituents. Building on synthetic work from Oakland University's Chemistry Department, we systematically evaluated these compounds against organisms from bacterial, fungal, and eukaryotic domains using CLSI disk diffusion protocols. Results demonstrate that chloro-substituted compounds consistently exhibit superior antimicrobial activity across all tested domains with a clear dose-dependent relationship, while methoxy-substituted analogs show no antimicrobial effects. These findings suggest the electron-withdrawing properties of the chloro group are crucial for antimicrobial activity. Our cross-domain approach reveals important structure-activity relationships that can guide the rational design of new antimicrobial agents, addressing the urgent global challenge of antimicrobial resistance. This work bridges synthetic organic chemistry with applied biochemical research, offering promising directions for antimicrobial development.

 

C06.  Synthesizing Antibiotics with Essential Oils and Testing Activity

Jaden McLaury, Marin Stevens, Hannah Stearns

Faculty Advisor: Dr. Stephanie Brouet

Antibiotics are an important synthetic target, due to increasing bacterial resistance and a lack of candidates in the pipeline of pharmaceutical companies to offer new solutions to the growing problem. Modification of existing antibiotics can be a viable route to identifying new compounds, but it is challenging as sensitive moieties are often present. In working towards the synthesis of antibiotic derivatives, inadvertently, the beta-lactam ring of a commercially available antibiotic was cleaved while attempting to modify remote portions of the molecule. This describes a strategy to modify the synthesis to avoid cleavage. Additionally, spectroscopic techniques are used to identify the derivatives, as well as testing activity against gram-negative and gram-positive bacteria.

 

C07.  Effect of estradiol on various plants growth and chloryphyll-A levels

Luke Burns, Michael Carter, Alex Sullivan

Faculty Advisor: Dr. Tami Sivy (CHEM 420)

The proposed project will look at the effects of estrogen on growth and photosynthetic effects on plants. The rationale behind performing the experiment is that there is a surplus of estrogen in the environment; the effect this has on plants could be important for current-day agriculture. We predict that exposure to estradiol will significantly increase the total mass growth and chlorophyll A levels among all plants. To explore this idea, plants were grown from seeds and injected weekly with estradiol. The estradiol was dissolved into a solution of ethanol. The plants were injected at various points for the selected time course. There were three groups of plants: a control, a high concentration, and a low concentration of estradiol per plant. The plants tested were mustard, soy, and Wisconsin fast plants. These were chosen because mustard is a cousin of Arabidopsis, a common model organism. The soy was selected because it's known to have estrogenic properties. The Wisconsin fast plant was chosen because they have a very short lifespan which was ideal for our time frame. We plan to take readings of chlorophyll A levels, and a dry mass weight at the end of the growing cycle. We predict that exposure to estradiol will significantly increase the growth and chlorophyll A levels among all plants.

 

C08.  Membrane Lipid Composition as a Bacterial Identifier: A GC-MS Approach

Brady Gould, Luke Miller

Faculty Advisor: Dr. Tami Sivy (CHEM 420)

Bacterial membrane composition differs significantly between Gram-positive and Gram-negative species, particularly in their fatty acid profiles. This study aims to determine whether gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) can be used to distinguish these groups based on lipid analysis. We will extract membrane lipids from Bacillus (Gram-positive) and E. coli (Gram-negative), derivatize them for GC-MS analysis, and compare their fatty acid compositions. Differences in chain length, saturation, and branching patterns are expected to serve as distinguishing markers. Once characteristic profiles are established, an unknown bacterial sample will be analyzed to assess whether its membrane lipid composition can be used for classification. By identifying specific fatty acid signatures associated with Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria, we aim to explore the reliability in lipid profiling via GC-MS for bacterial identification.

 

C09.  Effect of Artificial Food Dyes on Phosphofructokinase-1 Enzyme in Non-Oxidative Metabolism of E. Coli

Ashton Papajesk, Anthony Roehrl

Faculty Advisor: Dr. Tami Sivy (CHEM 420)

Artificial food dyes are of particular interest in both the scientific and political communities. Legislation has been proposed to limit food dyes in food and beverages due to long-term health concerns. However, current research is mainly focused on the potential carcinogenic effects of food dyes, rather than the effects it could potentially have on biological functions like metabolism. Some research has indicated that food dye may lead to oxidative stress [1], causing an increase in the presence of reactive oxygen species in the body. Other papers have also noted that oxidative stress leads to decreased activity of key glycolysis enzymes like phosphofructokinase-1. [2] Therefore, we propose that by dosing nutrient agar with various artificial food dyes and performing an assay on the activity of phosophofructokinase-1 in E.Coli, a decrease in the levels of activity will be expected - thus proving a lower rate of glycolysis.

 

C10.  The Investigation of Yeast Fermentation Rate in Monosaccharides and Disaccharides

Cong K Tu, Lewisky Zacharia

Faculty Advisor: Dr. Tami Sivy (CHEM 420)

The experiment employed the process of anaerobic respiration to examine the reaction rate of yeast fermentation in different types of sugars. The sugars acquired were glucose, fructose, sucrose and lactose for which they will be mixed with yeast LB broth containing the yeast extract and dry active yeast to monitor the production of carbon dioxide. Our hypothesis is that monosaccharide sugars such as glucose and fructose will yield a higher rate of fermentation compared to disaccharides (sucrose and lactose). In order to conduct the experiment, we collected gas ( CO2) produced from the reaction by water displacement apparatus. The volume of displaced water was recorded every 5 minutes for a total of 50 minutes to quantify the volume of carbon dioxide produced. The volume of CO2 by time corresponds to the rate of yeast fermentation for each sugar. Our result found that the fermentation rate of glucose and fructose was recorded to be relatively higher compared to sucrose and lactose. Lactose had the lowest rate of reaction whereby no carbon dioxide was produced for 40 minutes after which only 1.2 mL of carbon dioxide was produced in the first trial. Through the course of the experiment, the hypothesis was proven to be true given that fructose and glucose showed a higher rate of fermentation compared to lactose and sucrose.

 

EE01.  An experimental study of partial energy harvesting by solar cages for sustainability

Zachary Franzel^*, Gabe Gransden, Brian Maricle, Matthew Vannette, M. Ashraf Khan

Faculty Advisor: Dr. M. Ashraf Khan

(Poster located in Curtiss Hall)

The demand for energy is ever-increasing around the world whereas the sources are limited.   The study focuses on renewable energy harvesting partially and the remaining energy in terms of illuminations intensity available for nature or food production. To this end, miniature solar cages have been modelled and built for the study. A solar cage has solar panels of a specific area with a carrying structure for measurement; the panels are made of a series of photovoltaic, PV, cells soldered by a specific solder. The initial study includes a custom made 3-panel solar cage where the geometric parameter of the structure was constant. In the next stage, a custom made 5-panel solar cage has been built where the structure is flexible in terms of height adjustment. The power generation by the cage and illumination intensity available inside the cage have been measured for wide weather variation and over several days. The quantitative outcomes show a large variation of illumination intensity inside the cages over a day. The remaining energy inside can be used as an indicator of sustainability of a biological system to thrive.

* denotes presenter

 

ES01.  An update on the Saginaw Bay Monitoring Consortium: Tributary monitoring by SVSU's undergraduate student team

Brook Husted^*, Arianna Kile^*, Kailey Mize^*, Brooke Pockrandt^*, Katie Steinhaus^*, Jeneva Tomaszewski^*, Rebecca Bowen, David Karpovich

Faculty Advisor: Dr. David Karpovich

The Saginaw Bay Monitoring Consortium (SBMC) has established a tributary and open water monitoring framework for the Saginaw Bay Watershed. This comprehensive, multi-year monitoring effort is unprecedented in the Saginaw Bay Watershed, and it will provide access to significant data for use by resource managers, scientists, and decision-makers to assist in evaluating and restoring this very important ecosystem. Weekly monitoring for nutrient and sediment transport began in the summer of 2023 at 18 tributary sites by an undergraduate student team with the Saginaw Bay Environmental Science Institute at Saginaw Valley State University (SVSU). Tributary monitoring locations were selected to represent coastal sub-watersheds of Saginaw Bay and major sub-watersheds of the Saginaw River, and each is co-located with a USGS gaging station. Complementary data are also being collected at 10 open water sites on Saginaw Bay by NOAA GLERL. This poster will provide an update on tributary monitoring activities, report highlights from second-year results and describe how the SVSU undergraduate student team is coordinating the tributary sampling and meeting data quality requirements for this important initiative.

* denotes presenter

 

ME01.  DOE Analysis of 3D Printer Variables and Their Effect on Material Properties

Anthony Hagarty

Faculty Advisor: Dr. John Herman

3D printers and their respective software packages have many ways to create a part. The project aims to test several printer variables through a DOE analysis, measure their effect on part performance through a three-point bend test, and consider the variable's effect on the total time required to print a part while providing a solid mechanics approach to analyze results. The variables explored in this project were layer orientation, printer head speed, and layer height. Layer orientation was chosen to either be along the width or length of the test part. Print speed was tested at 80mm/s and 150mm/s. Lastly, layer height was tested at 0.28mm and 0.12mm. It was found that, on average, lengthwise, printed parts had a 311N higher peak load than widthwise. Layer height and print speed had less significant effects on part performance. Lengthwise printed parts supported similar loads. The similarity was supported by a solid mechanics explanation, which established that the area moment of inertias between layer height options only changed by 0.288x10-12m4, suggesting that parts would experience nearly identical stresses.

 

ME02.  The Effects of Biochar Substitution on the Flexural Strength of Concrete (Honors Thesis)

Mitchell Neumann

Faculty Advisor: Dr. Peggy Jones

The cement industry contributes around 6% to global CO2 emissions. The development of cities, expanding neighborhoods, and the maintenance of transportation networks has driven the demand for cement worldwide, with 30 billion tons being produced yearly. To meet demands while reducing CO2 emissions, the cement industry must consider improving efficiency, carbon storage, and adopting alternate materials. Biochar is recycled biomass made by decomposing the source material at high temperatures in a low-oxygen environment. Prior research shows that biochar additions to concrete improves the material properties such as fracture energy and flexural strength. In this study, biochar additions of 3% and 7.5% by weight cement were considered and incorporated into concrete samples which were tested for flexural strength via three-point bending. Results found low statistical significance between biochar additions and improving flexural strength but revealed that grain size and distribution as well as sample geometry may strongly effect the data collected.

 

 

ECE senior design posters will be located in Groening Commons inside Curtiss Hall.

 

SD-EE01.  Title

Students

Faculty Advisor: Dr. Rajani Muraleedharan

Collaborator: 

Sponsored by: 

Abstract.

 

SD-EE02.  Title

Students

Faculty Advisor: Dr. Rajani Muraleedharan

Sponsored by: 

Abstract.

 

SD-EE03.  Title

Students

Faculty Advisor: Dr. Rajani Muraleedharan

Collaborator: 

Sponsored by: 

Abstract.

 

 

SD-ME01.  Nexteer Prototype Center Ball Screw Backdrive Test Cell

Zachary Dollman, Evan Miller, Noble Singer

Faculty Advisor: Dr. Brooks Byam

Nexteer Automotive is a global leading motion control technology company that specializes in electric (EPS) and hydraulic (HPS) power steering systems, and Steer-By-Wire systems (SBW). Nexteer solves motion control challenges for over 60 customers including BMW, Ford, GM, and Stellantis. The only U.S. based technology center is in Saginaw, MI, including offices, manufacturing plants, and a prototype center. The prototype center contains multiple validation test stands, one of which is the backdrive bench, that measures the backdrive, which is a friction, within the steering gear.

 

SD-ME02.  Nexteer Prototype Center Rack Straightener

Hunter Dungey, Anthony Hagarty, Mark Merrill

Faculty Advisor: Dr. Brooks Byam

This project aims to straighten racks better than the identified spec of 200um of runout. The present manual procedure is also expected to be improved by decreasing the time it takes to manually straighten racks . This will be achieved by creating a math model to simulate the current bending of the rack so a calculated decision can be made to correct the present runout in the racks. The math model will be created by simulating the FEA of the racks in question and performing testing to understand the actual behavior of the racks.

 

SD-ME03.  Increasing the Cornering Speed of an FSAE Race Car Using the Aerodynamic Downforce of a Rear Wing

Matteo Capotosti, Tobias Pfeiffer, Ethan Schroeder

Faculty Advisor: Dr. Thomas Mahank

The design, manufacturing, assembly, and testing of the Formula SAE race car’s two-element rear wing are described. The aerodynamic design consisted of selecting the airfoil geometries for the wing and flap, defining the shape of the rear wing’s endplates, and determining the optimal positioning of the wing and flap. Aerodynamic interaction between the wing and flap was studied using computational fluid dynamics (CFD) software. Ansys Fluent was utilized for meshing the fluid domain, while the governing equations were solved with the open source CFD software OpenFOAM.   The structural design consisted of designing the supporting rods and beams holding the rear wing in place. The rear wing was manufactured using a custom CNC hot wire cutter and a three-axis CNC mill. Testing and validation of the design were conducted with a series of tests including downforce and drag measurements with strain gauges, tuft testing, average vehicle cornering speed measurements, and driver feedback sessions.

 

SD-ME04.  Savant Group Noack Cup Chiller

Abraham Cerda, Adam Thomas, Kyle Uren, Aidan Watson

Faculty Advisor: Dr. Brooks Byam

The Savant Group, based in Midland, Michigan, specializes in lubrication testing and the manufacturing of related equipment. One of their subgroups, Tannas Co., designs lab equipment to evaluate the properties of engine oils, including the Quantum Pro Oxidation (QPO) Tester and Noack S2 device. These devices, essential for testing engine lubricants, both operate at high temperatures and require significant cooldown time between tests. Currently, an ice bath is used to cool the testing chambers to 25°C ±4°C, taking approximately 30 minutes. The proposed project aims to develop an innovative accessory to cool these chambers in under five minutes, reducing the turnaround time for tests and improving operational efficiency. This system will replace the original cooling method, which consists of inserting a beaker full of ice into the test chamber, ultimately shortening the testing cycle and addressing time inefficiencies.

 

SD-ME05.  TEAMTECH Head and Neck Restraint

David Appold, Fisher Rose, Nick Stewart, Nate Tomalia

Faculty Advisor: Dr. Brooks Byam

There is a need for a low-cost head and neck support device. Motorsports required head and neck restraints at all levels since the death of Dale Earnhardt on February 18th, 2001. Affordability is an issue at the local levels of racing. Currently, an affordable head and neck restraint costs around $500. TEAMTECH is targeting a $250 price point to allow local racers to enjoy motorsports with capable safety equipment.

 

SD-ME06.  DuPont Automated Syringe Inspection System

Brenden Fleming, Dezirae Hayes, Allison Walz

Faculty Advisor: Dr. Brooks Byam

The project accomplishes designing a system that removes a production process bottleneck established within the packaging line. This will be done by designing and implementing an automated syringe inspection system to inspect filled syringes for abnormalities. This was accomplished by integrating the following components into the design: Gantry Movement System, Keyence Inspection System, HMI and PLC controller, and syringe holder and rejection system.

 

SD-ME07.  Hemlock Semiconductor S430 Crushed Material Sorting Improvement

Kyle Harner, Andrew Herzog, Sydney Peake, Richard Sylvia

Faculty Advisor: Dr. John Herman

Hemlock Semiconductor (HSC) uses a sorting system in building S-430 to sort their material into different product sizes. The system uses a set of tiered stairs with high frequency vibrations to sort the material. As the material falls through the stairs, the abnormally shaped pieces of polysilicon get stuck in the gap between each stair. Their current solution is a tool called a Shepherds hook that is used to pull the lodged pieces out from being stuck. The project presented by HSC was to create an alternative tool to the Shepherds hook that is automated. The outcome of the project should minimize operator intervention while attempting to improve their current system. As a solution, a new sorting system was developed with rollers instead of the stairs. The rollers alternate widths to create spaces that will sort the polysilicon to the product specs provided by HSC. This new assembly will improve the efficiency of the sorting process in S-430 and eliminate majority of the lodged poly.

 

SD-ME08.  Kremin Indexing Part Catcher for Swiss Lathe Conveyors

Andrew Loest, Landon Schenk, Ben Schulte, Megan Thiravong

Faculty Advisor: Dr. Brooks Byam

Kremin Incorporated is a leading machining manufacturer that focuses on high-volume, precision parts fabrication using machinery such as the Swiss lathe. Due to increased interest in production batch tracking, parts quality control, and floorspace limitations, Kremin has requested our Senior Design team to construct an indexing part catcher device. The catcher will collect parts from Swiss lathe output conveyors, organize parts into indexed batches, and drain excess machine oil while operating within a 32” x 16” x 24” space. The catcher features portable part bins, chain-driven carriages, ball caster conveyors, and a hybrid Human-Machine Interface + Programable Logic Controller system. The catcher’s oil drainage system consists of perforated part bins, a central collection funnel, and an oil recycling tube directed back to the lathe. Our design aims to allow for 1-hour batch indexing intervals, 20-second bin-to-bin transition times, 8-hour operation time without emptying, resistance to degradation by machine oil, and recycling of greater than 80% of lathe oil output. All the above functions will improve operator ergonomics, machine shop cleanliness, production quality control, and part tracking efficiency.

 

SD-ME09.  Nexteer Steering Gear Bushing Dynamics Fixtures

Nick Bozarth, Brooklynn Harris, Raegan Lanczak, and Emily Sawatzki

Faculty Advisor: Dr. Brooks Byam

The scope of this project is to create five fixtures that will be mounted to a REPS gear to measure the unknown linear displacement of the rubber bushings during testing. The displacement will be measured at two positions. Position 1 will measure the displacement of the gear housing relative to the vehicle frame. Position 2 will measure the displacement of the inner tie rod relative to the gear housing. For position 1, a measurement device will be mounted to the vehicle frame and an arm will be connected from the device to the gear housing. For position 2, the measurement device will be attached to the gear housing and the arm will be connected from the device to the inner tie rod. The fixtures were designed according to the measurable objectives and to be specific to the gear housing, measurement device, and vehicle frame. The group worked as a team and found the best way to accomplish the goals, while staying within budget.

 

SD-ME10.  Shaw Contracting Conveyor Removal Jig

Andrew Drake, Frank Koscica, Chase Vollmer, Dylan Wesenick

Faculty Advisor: Dr. Brooks Byam

This capstone project focuses on the design and development of a novel jig to improve the removal and installation process of the first-stage conveyor on Roadtec RX-Series cold planers. The project aims to reduce labor requirements, enhance safety, and streamline the overall process compared to existing methods. Through an iterative process of concept generation, benchmarking, and analysis against defined system objectives, a viable solution was identified. The selected design consists of a front and rear lift and integrates caster wheels, fork pockets, and leverage points to simplify maneuvering and positioning under the machine. Key safety features, such as lock-out pins and OSHA-compliant components, ensure a safer work environment, addressing risks inherent in the current method. The system is designed to meet stringent size, cost, and performance requirements, with a target budget of $5,000 or less and the ability to lift and secure the conveyor with fewer technicians. By incorporating commonly available, weatherproof parts and prioritizing ease of use, the solution offers both operational efficiency and long-term durability. The outcome of this project is a functional prototype that provides a safer, more efficient means of conveyor removal, reducing both downtime and the potential for workplace injury during maintenance activities.

 

SD-ME11.  Vantage Plastics Liquid Cooled Thermoforming Clamps

Zachary Leslie, Hunter Patrick, Mark Niedecken, Shelbee Simanskey

Faculty Advisor: Dr. Aneesha Gogineni

The need for thermoforming cooling clamps stems from inadequacies of the typical thermoforming clamp design for equipment at Vantage Plastics in Bay City, MI. During the thermoforming process, the thermoforming clamps reach temperatures greater than 250°F. Traditional thermoforming clamps are effective when the cycle time of the thermoforming machine is extended to allow for adequate cooling time. However, as the cycle time of the machine decreases, the temperature of the clamps rises rapidly, causing excess heat along the clamping edge of the clamps. The increase in temperature along the clamping edge causes the plastics sheets to melt at the clamping point and fall into the thermoforming machine. This causes excess scrap and safety hazards through both the plastic sheets and damaged clamps. The proposed design for the liquid cooled thermoforming clamps serves to maintain a clamping edge temperature at or below 140°F. This will be completed using radiator cooled propylene glycol transferred via a closed loop system driven by a centrifugal pump.

 

 

Biology

 

1:00 PM	The effects of light availability on photosynthesis, growth, and establishment of the invasive shrub European buckthorn (Rhamnus cathartica) on the Saginaw Valley State University campus	Pioneer 242
	Jeneva Tomaszewski
	Faculty Advisor: Dr. Brian Maricle
	A prominent invasive species in Michigan forests is European Buckthorn (Rhamnus cathartica), which occupies space in the understory and is especially successful along edges or other locations with good lighting. The goal of this experiment was to measure the physiological effects of light availability on R. cathartica and characterize its distribution in the Saginaw Valley State University Ecological Research Area, which is in the process of an invasion. Lighting and canopy cover were related to plant distribution and performance. There were trends for  number of R. cathartica individuals per plot to increase with greater light availability. Well-lit plots had up to 4.7 individuals m-2, whereas heavily-shaded plots typically only had 1.8 individuals m-2. Photosynthetic light response curves were measured, indicating photosynthesis rates up to 77 percent higher and stomatal conductance up to 33 percent higher in R. cathartica plants in well-lit plots compared to heavily-shaded plots. Photosynthesis rates decreased during the transition to autumn, even with increased light availability as the canopy opened. It is important to understand the conditions under which invasive species thrive in order to determine and predict the vulnerability of local ecosystems to the spread of invasives. Since lighting is of clear importance for the establishment of R. cathartica during an invasion, understanding the role of light and how it is used by R. cathartica might help in better understanding forest invasions in this and other systems.
1:30 PM	An environmental DNA (eDNA) study of pollinator biodiversity along an urban-to-rural gradient	Pioneer 242
	Olivia Konsdorf
	Faculty Advisor: Dr. Jorge R. Paredes-Montero
	This research will investigate the influence of urbanization on pollinator biodiversity within the Saginaw Bay region. Environmental DNA (eDNA) analysis will be employed to assess four collection sites, representing varying urbanization levels along an Urban-to-Rural gradient (Natural, Rural, Urban-Rural, Suburban, and Urban environments), with an additional collection site in an undisturbed natural habitat. The top four flowering plant species will be identified at each site. A total of 120 samples will be collected. DNA will be from these samples using the CTAB lysis buffer and the chloroform-phenol separation method. Specific molecular markers will be used to validate and categorize pollinator communities. The significance of this research lies in understanding the potential ecological impact of urbanization on pollinator communities, considering their fundamental role in ecosystem health and food production. The project's results will contribute to informed conservation strategies and biodiversity management in the face of urban expansion.
2:00 PM	Methods for Detecting Eastern Equine Encephalitis Virus in Municipal Wastewater	Pioneer 242
	Brook Rousseau*, Landon Boensch, Jenna Picard, Sarah Veale
	Faculty Advisor: Dr. Ken Luzynski
	The goal of this research was to develop a method for detecting Eastern Equine Encephalitis Virus (also known as 'Triple E' or EEEV) in wastewater. EEEV is transmitted by mosquito bites and can affect the nervous system of mammals that become infected. Although transmission between infected mammals is unlikely, it may be possible to shed viral particles into wastewater during infection. A method for detecting the presence of EEEV in wastewater may help communities become aware of nearby mosquitos possibly transmitting the dangerous disease. Here, we describe our method for detecting EEEV using RNA extraction and reverse transcription with qPCR. We analyzed wastewater of a large city collected at different times of the 2024 year. Wastewater in June and September were positive for EEEV, but not March and December. Also, June was found to have minor levels, suggesting this result might be due to trace levels or issues with qPCR amplification. * denotes presenter
2:20 PM	Developing a Protocol for DNA Barcoding Mosquito Bloodmeals	Pioneer 242
	Josh Anderson*, Ken Luzynski
	Faculty Advisor: Dr. Ken Luzynski
	This study compared the efficacy of multiple DNA extraction methods (Qiagen, Chelex with addition wash steps, and Chelex without wash steps) and mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) barcoding markers (cytochrome b [cytB] and cytochrome oxidase I [COI]) for species identification in mosquito bloodmeals. DNA yield, purity, and amplification success were assessed across methods. Additionally, the performance of cytB and COI markers was evaluated for species resolution and sequencing accuracy. Results provide insights into extraction techniques and marker selection optimal for inexpensive yet reliable species barcoding. These findings contribute to improving molecular identification protocols in biodiversity and public health research. * denotes presenter
2:40 PM	Vertebrate Biodiversity of Saginaw County Measured Through Mosquito Bloodmeals	Pioneer 242
	Lexi Moore*, Seth Seehafer*, Sarah Veale, Josh Anderson, Ken Luzynski
	Faculty Advisor: Dr. Ken Luzynski
	This study assessed vertebrate biodiversity in Saginaw County by analyzing mosquito bloodmeals using mitochondrial cytochrome oxidase I (COI) gene sequencing. Mosquitoes serve as effective bioindicators of local wildlife presence, offering an indirect yet comprehensive snapshot of vertebrate diversity. Following DNA extraction and amplification of the COI gene, sanger sequencing and BLAST was employed to identify vertebrate species. Species composition and relative abundance were analyzed to evaluate biodiversity across different zones within Saginaw County. This non-invasive approach provides valuable ecological insights and complements traditional survey methods. The results contribute to understanding local wildlife distribution, informing conservation efforts, and assessing ecosystem and public health. Additionally, this methodology demonstrates the utility of mosquito bloodmeal analysis as a cost-effective tool for biodiversity monitoring. * denotes presenter
3:00 PM	Analyzing Mosquito Bloodmeals Across Varied Habitats in Midland County, MI	Pioneer 242
	Abby Medler*, Ken Luzynski, Doug Allen
	Faculty Advisor: Dr. Ken Luzynski
	Mosquitoes act as vectors for diseases and string a connection between humans, domestic animals, and wildlife. Understanding mosquito feeding behavior, geographical patterns, and diversity can put us a step ahead with predicting future patterns and disease transmissions across varied landscape types. This study analyzed mosquito blood meals across varied habitats in Midland County, MI to understand how land type and mosquito species influence host selection. Mosquitoes were collected using five different trapping methods at 22 sites (10 rural, 12 urban). Mosquitoes were identified morphologically and blood meal DNA was analyzed using CO1 sequencing and BLAST. Of 115 blood-fed samples, 81 were successfully sequenced. We found that humans represent the majority of the host species (n=46), with white-tailed deer coming in second (n=16), followed by smaller numbers of domestic animals and birds. We found that Aedes species and Anopheles were more generalist feeders, while Culex were more specialized feeders. Despite differences in capture method, mosquito and host diversity did not differ significantly between urban and rural sites. These results highlight the complexity between mosquito-host interactions and preferences, and the importance of understanding feeding behavior for public health and may inform control strategies. * denotes presenter

 

Mechanical Engineering Senior Design I

Presentations are 30 minutes each in Pioneer 245.

 

1:00 PM	Nexteer Prototype Center Ball Screw Backdrive Test Cell	Pioneer 245
	Zachary Dollman, Evan Miller, Noble Singer
	Faculty Advisor: Dr. Brooks Byam
	Nexteer Automotive is a global leading motion control technology company that specializes in electric (EPS) and hydraulic (HPS) power steering systems, and Steer-By-Wire systems (SBW). Nexteer solves motion control challenges for over 60 customers including BMW, Ford, GM, and Stellantis. The only U.S. based technology center is in Saginaw, MI, including offices, manufacturing plants, and a prototype center. The prototype center contains multiple validation test stands, one of which is the backdrive bench, that measures the backdrive, which is a friction, within the steering gear.
1:30 PM	Nexteer Prototype Center Rack Straightener	Pioneer 245
	Nexteer Prototype Center Rack Straightener
	Faculty Advisor: Dr. Brooks Byam
	This project aims to straighten racks better than the identified spec of 200um of runout. The present manual procedure is also expected to be improved by decreasing the time it takes to manually straighten racks . This will be achieved by creating a math model to simulate the current bending of the rack so a calculated decision can be made to correct the present runout in the racks. The math model will be created by simulating the FEA of the racks in question and performing testing to understand the actual behavior of the racks.
2:00 PM	Increasing the Cornering Speed of an FSAE Race Car Using the Aerodynamic Downforce of a Rear Wing	Pioneer 245
	Matteo Capotosti, Tobias Pfeiffer, Ethan Schroeder
	Faculty Advisor: Dr. Thomas Mahank
	The design, manufacturing, assembly, and testing of the Formula SAE race car’s two-element rear wing are described. The aerodynamic design consisted of selecting the airfoil geometries for the wing and flap, defining the shape of the rear wing’s endplates, and determining the optimal positioning of the wing and flap. Aerodynamic interaction between the wing and flap was studied using computational fluid dynamics (CFD) software. Ansys Fluent was utilized for meshing the fluid domain, while the governing equations were solved with the open source CFD software OpenFOAM.   The structural design consisted of designing the supporting rods and beams holding the rear wing in place. The rear wing was manufactured using a custom CNC hot wire cutter and a three-axis CNC mill. Testing and validation of the design were conducted with a series of tests including downforce and drag measurements with strain gauges, tuft testing, average vehicle cornering speed measurements, and driver feedback sessions.
2:30 PM	Savant Group Noack Cup Chiller	Pioneer 245
	Abraham Cerda, Adam Thomas, Kyle Uren, Aidan Watson
	Faculty Advisor: Dr. Brooks Byam
	The Savant Group, based in Midland, Michigan, specializes in lubrication testing and the manufacturing of related equipment. One of their subgroups, Tannas Co., designs lab equipment to evaluate the properties of engine oils, including the Quantum Pro Oxidation (QPO) Tester and Noack S2 device. These devices, essential for testing engine lubricants, both operate at high temperatures and require significant cooldown time between tests. Currently, an ice bath is used to cool the testing chambers to 25°C ±4°C, taking approximately 30 minutes. The proposed project aims to develop an innovative accessory to cool these chambers in under five minutes, reducing the turnaround time for tests and improving operational efficiency. This system will replace the original cooling method, which consists of inserting a beaker full of ice into the test chamber, ultimately shortening the testing cycle and addressing time inefficiencies.
3:00 PM	TEAMTECH Head and Neck Restraint	Pioneer 245
	David Appold, Fisher Rose, Nick Stewart, Nate Tomalia
	Faculty Advisor: Dr. Brooks Byam
	There is a need for a low-cost head and neck support device. Motorsports required head and neck restraints at all levels since the death of Dale Earnhardt on February 18th, 2001. Affordability is an issue at the local levels of racing. Currently, an affordable head and neck restraint costs around $500. TEAMTECH is targeting a $250 price point to allow local racers to enjoy motorsports with capable safety equipment.

 

Mechanical Engineering Senior Design II

Presentations are 30 minutes each in Pioneer 247.

 

1:00 PM	DuPont Automated Syringe Inspection System	Pioneer 247
	Brenden Fleming, Dezirae Hayes, Allison Walz
	Faculty Advisor: Dr. Brooks Byam
	The project accomplishes designing a system that removes a production process bottleneck established within the packaging line. This will be done by designing and implementing an automated syringe inspection system to inspect filled syringes for abnormalities. This was accomplished by integrating the following components into the design: Gantry Movement System, Keyence Inspection System, HMI and PLC controller, and syringe holder and rejection system.
1:30 PM	Hemlock Semiconductor S430 Crushed Material Sorting Improvement	Pioneer 247
	Kyle Harner, Andrew Herzog, Sydney Peake, Richard Sylvia
	Faculty Advisor: Dr. John Herman
	Hemlock Semiconductor (HSC) uses a sorting system in building S-430 to sort their material into different product sizes. The system uses a set of tiered stairs with high frequency vibrations to sort the material. As the material falls through the stairs, the abnormally shaped pieces of polysilicon get stuck in the gap between each stair. Their current solution is a tool called a Shepherds hook that is used to pull the lodged pieces out from being stuck. The project presented by HSC was to create an alternative tool to the Shepherds hook that is automated. The outcome of the project should minimize operator intervention while attempting to improve their current system. As a solution, a new sorting system was developed with rollers instead of the stairs. The rollers alternate widths to create spaces that will sort the polysilicon to the product specs provided by HSC. This new assembly will improve the efficiency of the sorting process in S-430 and eliminate majority of the lodged poly.
2:00 PM	Kremin Indexing Part Catcher for Swiss Lathe Conveyors	Pioneer 247
	Andrew Loest, Landon Schenk, Ben Schulte, Megan Thiravong
	Faculty Advisor: Dr. Brooks Byam
	Kremin Incorporated is a leading machining manufacturer that focuses on high-volume, precision parts fabrication using machinery such as the Swiss lathe. Due to increased interest in production batch tracking, parts quality control, and floorspace limitations, Kremin has requested our Senior Design team to construct an indexing part catcher device. The catcher will collect parts from Swiss lathe output conveyors, organize parts into indexed batches, and drain excess machine oil while operating within a 32” x 16” x 24” space. The catcher features portable part bins, chain-driven carriages, ball caster conveyors, and a hybrid Human-Machine Interface + Programable Logic Controller system. The catcher’s oil drainage system consists of perforated part bins, a central collection funnel, and an oil recycling tube directed back to the lathe. Our design aims to allow for 1-hour batch indexing intervals, 20-second bin-to-bin transition times, 8-hour operation time without emptying, resistance to degradation by machine oil, and recycling of greater than 80% of lathe oil output. All the above functions will improve operator ergonomics, machine shop cleanliness, production quality control, and part tracking efficiency.
2:30 PM	Nexteer Steering Gear Bushing Dynamics Fixtures	Pioneer 247
	Nick Bozarth, Brooklynn Harris, Raegan Lanczak, and Emily Sawatzki
	Faculty Advisor: Dr. Brooks Byam
	The scope of this project is to create five fixtures that will be mounted to a REPS gear to measure the unknown linear displacement of the rubber bushings during testing. The displacement will be measured at two positions. Position 1 will measure the displacement of the gear housing relative to the vehicle frame. Position 2 will measure the displacement of the inner tie rod relative to the gear housing. For position 1, a measurement device will be mounted to the vehicle frame and an arm will be connected from the device to the gear housing. For position 2, the measurement device will be attached to the gear housing and the arm will be connected from the device to the inner tie rod. The fixtures were designed according to the measurable objectives and to be specific to the gear housing, measurement device, and vehicle frame. The group worked as a team and found the best way to accomplish the goals, while staying within budget.
3:00 PM	Shaw Contracting Conveyor Removal Jig	Pioneer 247
	Andrew Drake, Frank Koscica, Chase Vollmer, Dylan Wesenick
	Faculty Advisor: Dr. Brooks Byam
	This capstone project focuses on the design and development of a novel jig to improve the removal and installation process of the first-stage conveyor on Roadtec RX-Series cold planers. The project aims to reduce labor requirements, enhance safety, and streamline the overall process compared to existing methods. Through an iterative process of concept generation, benchmarking, and analysis against defined system objectives, a viable solution was identified. The selected design consists of a front and rear lift and integrates caster wheels, fork pockets, and leverage points to simplify maneuvering and positioning under the machine. Key safety features, such as lock-out pins and OSHA-compliant components, ensure a safer work environment, addressing risks inherent in the current method. The system is designed to meet stringent size, cost, and performance requirements, with a target budget of $5,000 or less and the ability to lift and secure the conveyor with fewer technicians. By incorporating commonly available, weatherproof parts and prioritizing ease of use, the solution offers both operational efficiency and long-term durability. The outcome of this project is a functional prototype that provides a safer, more efficient means of conveyor removal, reducing both downtime and the potential for workplace injury during maintenance activities.
3:30 PM	Vantage Plastics Liquid Cooled Thermoforming Clamps	Pioneer 247
	Zachary Leslie, Hunter Patrick, Mark Niedecken, Shelbee Simanskey
	Faculty Advisor: Dr. Aneesha Gogineni
	The need for thermoforming cooling clamps stems from inadequacies of the typical thermoforming clamp design for equipment at Vantage Plastics in Bay City, MI. During the thermoforming process, the thermoforming clamps reach temperatures greater than 250°F. Traditional thermoforming clamps are effective when the cycle time of the thermoforming machine is extended to allow for adequate cooling time. However, as the cycle time of the machine decreases, the temperature of the clamps rises rapidly, causing excess heat along the clamping edge of the clamps. The increase in temperature along the clamping edge causes the plastics sheets to melt at the clamping point and fall into the thermoforming machine. This causes excess scrap and safety hazards through both the plastic sheets and damaged clamps. The proposed design for the liquid cooled thermoforming clamps serves to maintain a clamping edge temperature at or below 140°F. This will be completed using radiator cooled propylene glycol transferred via a closed loop system driven by a centrifugal pump.