Honors Grant Recipients 2008

Mikilyn D’Angelo

PNUTS RNAi-Induced Apoptosis Dependent upon the Cleavage State of the Rb Tumor Suppressor

Faculty Mentor: Dr. Nancy Krucher
 

Abstract: Specific alterations in molecules that control cell proliferation can lead to cancer.  In  previous studies we have shown that by inhibiting Phosphate Nuclear Targeting Subunit (PNUTS) we alter the phosphorylation state of the well-studied tumor suppressor protein, Retinoblastoma (RB).  This alteration led to an increase in programmed cell death (apoptosis).  There is also evidence supporting the theory that the cleavage of the DEAD-G amino acid site on the c-terminus of the RB protein plays a significant role in apoptosis.  We believe that the inhibition of PNUTS leads to RB cleavage, which then causes cell death. The purpose of this study was to elucidate exactly how this process occurs.  In order to test this, we used Mouse Embryonic Fibroblasts (MEF) that contain normal, wild type RB (WT) and a cell line that has been genetically modified (MEF-MI) so that Rb is resistant to cleavage at the c-terminus.  When PNUTS was knocked out in the wild type cells, we found a substantial amount of apoptosis.  In contrast, there was an absence of apoptosis in the MEF-MI cell line.  This result suggest that PNUTS inhibition directly affects the cleavage of RB, apoptosis, and potentially plays an important role in a pathway leading to cancer.  Additional studies were performed to determine whether this event is important in MCF7 cells, which were originally isolated from a breast cancer patient.

Victoria DellaBadia

Bold Maid Marian: An Anti-Authoritative Analysis of Maid Marian in the Robin Hood Legend

Faculty Mentor: Dr. Bette Kirschstein
 

 Abstract: This literary analysis examines the characteristics of Maid Marian in various versions of the Robin Hood Legend. Originally intended as a love interest to Robin Hood, Maid Marian’s addition to the legend brought a strong-willed and independent-thinking woman into a story dominated by men. As a woman of the Middle Ages who stands up to authority, Maid Marian enhances the anti-authoritative nature of the legend. The representative retellings to be discussed are the following: “Robin Hood and Maid Marian” Ballad (16th century); “The Downfall of Robert, Earle of Huntington” and “The Death of Robert, Earle of Huntington” by Anthony Munday (1601); Maid Marian by Thomas Love Peacock (1822); “The Adventures of Robin Hood” by Roger Lancelyn Green (1956); The Forestwife by Theresa Tomlinson (1993); and Maid Marian by Elsa Watson (2004).

Michael DeRario

Advanced Cinematography: Steadicam and Jib

Faculty Mentor: Prof. Robert Klaeger
 

Abstract: An in-depth hands-on study of the operation of specialized equipment used in filmmaking, was undertaken, including an analysis of the various uses of the Steadicam and camera jib in feature films and television.  Instruction on Steadicam operation was received at the Lake Arrowhead Steadicam Classic Workshop during a 7-day intensive course taught by the top Steadicam operators in the world including Garrett Brown, the inventor of the Steadicam, and operator Jerry Holway.  The training covered the physics behind the Steadicam, basic and advanced operation techniques, an analysis of the moving camera, vehicle mounts, environmental obstacles, and creating an operator’s business plan. The camera jib is a boom device that allows for fluid camera movement both vertically and horizontally and is helpful in capturing high shots and long vertical shots.  The training included exercises using the camera jib that simulate common shots performed using the device. The culmination of the study was the development of a reel consisting of shots that demonstrates the versatility of Steadicam and Jib operation skills acquired during the Independent Study.

KrystinaGroce

Literacy in Urban South Africa

Faculty Mentor: Dr. Alma Wattley
 

Abstract: This research project examines the literacy of ESL students in urban South Africa.  South Africa has eleven official languages, which makes most of its young students secondary learners to English.  Volunteer programs and core curricula in grade schools aim to assist these children in their reading skills and introduce English to students.  Efforts such as these make the language available, but there is still great difficulty in reading comprehension.  The field research in this presentation is derived from a month-long stay at Prestwich Primary School, located in Cape Town, and will demonstrate the tremendous difficulties urban South Africa is having with literacy advancement.  Moreover, although the children of Cape Town face many adversities and are not reading on their age level, they were all very eager to participate and anxious to learn.  Throughout the month, the children’s daily tutoring sessions improved their reading skills. Updates from their Vice Principal report that the children have been studying their material and performing better on tests.

Korena Johnson

Iraqi Refugee Perspectives in Egypt

Faculty Mentor: Professor Joan Katen and Dr. Meghana Nayak
 

Abstract: This study was done via filmed interviews with Iraqi refugees living in Egypt during June and July 2008. The intent was to provide a glimpse of the trials people on the other side of the war face. Currently, there are about 70,000 Iraqis taking refuge in Egypt, many of whom are unable to work, afford medical care, send their children to public school, or legally own property. Because of this, many face extreme poverty and are quickly running out of time. Questions during interviews revolved around individual stories, feelings toward Americans, and experiences that caused entire families to leave everything in Iraq.