2021 STEM - Moraine Valley Community College

AWARDS CEREMONY Friday, April 23, 1 p.m.

STEM

Participating Colleges College of Lake County Elgin Community College McHenry County College Moraine Valley Community CollegeMorton College Oakton Community College Prairie State College Waubonsee Community College

2021

POSTER COMPETITION

2 | Illinois Skyway Collegiate Conference

Welcome ..............................................................Dr. Sylvia M. Jenkins college president, Moraine Valley Community College

Welcome and Introduction of Judges ..... Dr. Lisa S. Kelsay co-curricular director, Moraine Valley Community College

Introduction of Keynote Speaker .................Dr. Kimberly Golk academic advisor, Moraine Valley Community College

Keynote Speaker ................................................................ Kelsey Golk Moraine Valley Community College alumna

Panel Presentation .....................................................................Dr. Golk

Recognition of Participating Teams ................. Dr. Kelsay and Dr. Ryen Nagle Dean of Science, Business and Computer Technology

Announcement of Award Recipients .............. Dr. Kelsay and Dr. Nagle

AGENDA

2021 STEM Poster Competition | 3

Kelsey Golk enrolled at Moraine Valley in 2015, earning her associate degree in just 12 months. During this time, she worked for the Admissions Office and was vice president of scholarship for the Phi Theta Kappa (PTK) Honor Society. Golk and her fellow PTK officers launched the Student Success Conference that same year, earning the college’s 2016 Innovation of the Year award. She competed in the 2016 Skyway STEM competition, earning second place with her teammate for their project designing a thermoelectric beverage heater and cooler. In May 2016, Golk graduated with an Associate in General Studies degree, summa cum laude, and transferred to the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign (UIUC).

AGENDAKEYNOTE SPEAKER

Kelsey GolkLaboratory engineer, LG Electronics linkedin.com/in/kelsey-golk

http://linkedin.com/in/kelsey-golk/


During her first year at UIUC, Golk interned as a research assistant at a bioengineering laboratory in Carle Hospital, working on the synthesis of carbon nanoparticles in tunable sizes. She spent two years at a startup in Research Park called Starfire, where she fabricated vacuum tubes and power systems for small form-factor linear particle accelerators. Golk was a member of the Phi Sigma Roe sorority, serving as director of public relations and vice president of new member education, and competed in the combat robotics tournament during the 2018 Engineering Open House. In May 2019, she graduated with a bachelor’s degree in materials science and engineering, with a degree focus on biomaterials and metallurgy.

Golk is a laboratory engineer for LG Electronics, working in the home appliances research and development division. She works with kitchen appliances and emerging business categories in the development of new technology to address current market needs. In her free time, Golk tends to her growing collection of houseplants and continues her pursuit of the perfect cup of coffee.


Salam MulhemMoraine Valley Community College, Engineering Pathways Associate in General Studies, 2019

University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Aerospace Engineering, 2021

linkedin.com/in/salammulhem

Juleah PingHua Richardson Waubonsee Community College, Associate in Science, 2020

Aurora University, Computer Science with a minor in Math, 2022

linkedin.com/in/juleah-richardson-635068165

Jonathon RojasMorton College, Associate in Science, 2019

University of Illinois at Chicago, Chemistry, 2021

linkedin.com/in/jonathan-rojas-a5422b209/

PANEL MEMBERS

http://www.linkedin.com/in/salammulhem

http://linkedin.com/in/juleah-richardson-635068165

http://linkedin.com/in/jonathan-rojas-a5422b209/


Determination of Effects of Commonly Applied Products on Skin FloraTeri Ruiz-ArroyoCollege of Lake County

Abstract: A recent study identified a strain of Staphylococcus epidermis, a type of bacteria found on skin, that protects against skin cancer (Nakatsuji, et. al, 2018). This discovery reinforces the importance of skin flora in human health. A variety of products are applied to skin and have the potential to affect skin flora. The goal of this study was to determine the effect of some common products on skin flora. Isolates were obtained from donors with and without skin pathologies. If affected by products commonly applied to the skin, normal skin flora might be negatively impacted, thereby compromising the overall health of the individual.

POSTER ABSTRACTS

BIOLOGICAL & HEALTH SCIENCES


Determination of Health Benefits of the Traditional Mexican Remedy RattlesnakeElizabeth CamachoCollege of Lake County

Abstract: Crotalus basiliscus (rattlesnake) venom and rattlesnake meat is a traditional medicine in Mexico and is used to treat a wide spectrum of conditions and diseases. The goal of this research was to examine the effect of rattlesnake meat and rattlesnake venom on living organisms. Dugesia tigrina (brown planaria) were used as a model organism in this study due to their easily observable regenerative properties. I hypothesize that if rattlesnake meat and venom provide health benefits, positive differences will be observed between severed planaria allowed to regenerate in the presence of rattlesnake meat and rattlesnake venom compared to untreated planaria.

Determination of Turtle Placement on the Tree of LifeJesus SalazarCollege of Lake County

Abstract: The lineage of turtles and their exact placement on the tree of life has been the subject of various scientific research in the last few decades. One study suggests modern turtles might be the only living true diapsids (Schoch, et al., 2016) while another study, using DNA sequence data, indicates crocodilians are the closest living modern relatives (Mannen, et. al., 1999). The goal of this study is to use DNA sequence data to determine turtle’s relationships with different living reptiles and birds. Understanding the phylogeny of turtles can also help us understand how they might adapt to our changing world.


Effect of Myrica Cerifera on the Heart Rate of Daphnia Magna Exposed to the Chemical Stressor AcetaminophenAnne AhernCollege of Lake County

Abstract: Myrica Pensylvanica (Northern Bayberry) is a medicinal plant once used in Southeastern Canada by the Mi’kmaq indigenous people. Bayberry root has a wide range of purported healing properties including: soothing inflammation, easing stomach aches and treating mouth infections. The goal of this study was to determine the medicinal properties of this plant. Inflammation was induced in the model organism Daphnia magna by treatment with acetaminophen and monitored by changes in heart rate (Kim, et al., 2012). If Myrica Pensylvanica has anti-inflammatory properties, this will be evident in heart rate changes in the stressed Daphnia heart.

Effects of Dietary Supplements, Acidity and Alkalinity on BoneAshley AndersonPrairie State College

Abstract: The human body maintains an acid-base balance, which results in a physiologic pH between 7.35 and 7.45. Those who suffer from chronic acid-base imbalances have often been shown to suffer from bone disease as well. Diabetic ketoacidosis, a dangerous complication of type 1 diabetes, is one type of acid-base imbalance caused by the buildup of ketones in the blood. This study set out to observe specific changes bones undergo when incubated in solutions of differing pH — HCl, CH3COOH, NaOH, H2O and acetone — as well as what effects, if any, the addition of dietary supplements vitamin D3 and L-theanine have on the bone-solution systems. The working hypothesis is that vitamin D3 will have no effect while the L-theanine — an amino acid — will interact with the bone.


Seizure Risk Associated with Propylene Glycol Containing Vape SolutionMariia DenichenkoCollege of Lake County

Abstract: Vape is a popular e-cigarette that requires the inhalation of aerosol. Propylene glycol is a common ingredient in vape solutions. Propylene glycol is also used in the food and pharmaceutical industries. Despite its wide use, there are few studies examining the effects on living organisms. There have been recent concerns regarding the safety of vape with respect to potential seizure activity and allergic reactions in humans (Ereifej, E., et.al, 2017). The purpose of this study is to determine if a link exists between propylene glycol and seizure activity. Drosophila melanogaster was used as the model organism for this study. If propylene glycol induces seizures, then seizure activity will be observed in the Drosophila.


Aurora: File and Schedule Sharing AppEmily Stachowicz Amanda HoeksemaMagdalena SarnaMoraine Valley Community College

Abstract: A central challenge presented to students is maintaining balance with their schedules and keeping equilibrium between their classwork and social lives. This project intends to streamline students’ social lives by providing a shared, private space for a group to post their class and work schedules. An app or website of such design can reduce conflict in planning within a group by having their available and unavailable dates shown with easy access.

Clearer Mirror and Safer DrivingWilliam KaropulosOscar Zarco-DelgadoMatthew CryanMatthew StraczekMoraine Valley Community College

Abstract: Adverse winter conditions can make driving difficult, especially when ice and snow block the view in your side mirrors. Heated side mirrors are a feature in many luxury vehicles but have not been mainstreamed to all vehicles, leaving many drivers without this feature. The scope of this project aims to design and implement a heated side mirror that can be easily retrofitted to any car. Making this product more widely available will help keep drivers safe in non-optimal driving conditions.

ENGINEERING, MATHEMATICS and TECHNOLOGY


Comparing Learning Styles of Science and Non-Science MajorsMariam ItaniJulia JimenezMoraine Valley Community College

Abstract: While studying with peers in our science major and non-major classes, we observed that students learn the same concepts differently. This made us question: ‘Do students who are science majors have different learning styles than students who are non-science majors?’ Students may have visual, auditory, kinesthetic and reading/writing learning styles. Our hypothesis is that students majoring in science are likely to be visual learners compared to non-science majors because they are more often given diagrams, pictures or tables to study. To test our hypothesis, we will distribute surveys to students, including a learning style assessment, collect and analyze data.

Consumer Environmental ToolDiego ChavezMuhana RabgieMoraine Valley Community College

Abstract: Cars release CO2, which is the largest source of greenhouse gas emissions. Driving more light-footedly could decrease greenhouse gas emissions by allowing drivers to get better mileage. The aim of this project is to allow consumers to do that, and to be more conscious of their driving habits as well as their greenhouse gas emissions by using a monitor that displays the vitals of their vehicle. The operation of this device will be as simple as plugging it into an OBDII port and watching the display. This device will allow consumers to potentially cut down on their carbon footprint.


Keeping the Cold Out: Building a More Economical Heat TentChristina FaulknerChristiana Guthrie Tyler Gee Alex JohnstonCorwin BeckWaubonsee Community College

Abstract: Many regions around our world experience freezing temperatures that, when access to the necessary resources is restricted, can be and has proven to be detrimental to human health. In order to limit such detriments, especially amongst those who donate and have the financial means or were not prepared to handle cold temperatures, testing on various, economical materials will and has been completed in order to find a solution and lessen the impact of cold on the body. A tent-like structure composed of the best-suited, most-economically sound material could be a solution to being better prepared for cold temperatures.

Prosthetic HandJaunzel MullinsCollege of Lake County

Abstract: Prosthetics are getting too expensive for the majority of its customer base to access. Thus, to construct an efficient 3D prosthetic hand with a total value that does not exceed $150 was the objective. Notable variables at play when constructing the prosthetic hand is range of motion and grip strength. The average grip strength being comparable to that of a human male at 120 N. Range of motion of the hand being controlled by dental elastic bands varying between radii of 1/4 to 3/8 of an inch, increasing band diameter to decrease motion resistance and increasing maximum grip strength.


Unconventional Monetary Policy and Its Effect on Inflation, Unemployment and Asset PricesJay BushnellMoraine Valley Community College

Abstract: In consideration of ongoing economic instability, inflation remains below its 2% target, a weak labor market prevails, and asset prices abide in what seems to be an unsustainable speculative bubble. Through a regression analysis, we examine the relationship between the dependent variables of inflation, civilian unemployment, and asset prices as a function of quantitative easing. We expect to see positive linear associations between quantitative easing and the dependent variables of inflation and asset prices and a negative linear association between quantitative easing and civilian unemployment.

Unusual Applications of Newton’s Method: Harmonic Series Divergence ProofJennifer SirkinWaubonsee Community College

Abstract: Newton’s method is used to approximate the roots of a function; however, it has its limitations. One limitation is the possibility of achieving false solutions that are not necessarily close to a root even though they are arbitrarily close to each other. With this limitation in mind, we applied Newton’s method to a certain pathological function in order to prove the harmonic series diverges. While other articles describe pathological functions that exhibit false convergence, we introduce our novel proof of the divergence of the harmonic series. We will also explore other properties of our function in its application to Newton’s method.


A New Ocean Microplastic Detection and Removal Method that also Reduces Environmental ImpactMadison Maka Carrie BykowskiMelissa CarrollJessica O’Connor Moraine Valley Community College

Abstract: Plastics contaminating ecosystems has become a prominent environmental issue worldwide. In the remote location of the Glovers Reef Atoll, Belize, large quantities of shoreline plastic have been observed, but the presence of dissolved microplastics has not been recorded. Hypothetically, numerous amounts of non-biodegradable microplastics will be discovered through the creation of a simplified identification method that significantly reduces the amount of damaging yet necessary heavy metal catalyst in comparison to published methods. This new methodology hopes to detect and reduce microplastic pollution, reduce biomagnification and support a more efficient, less toxic microplastic extraction.

ENVIRONMENTAL BIOLOGY


Are You Drinking Plastic?Asia McNairYvette VenegasMorton College

Abstract: Excessive use and improper disposal of plastic by the human population has polluted our water systems. Statistics show as of 2020, 5.25 trillion macro- and micro-plastics pollute our oceans. That equates to 46,000 pieces per square mile, weighing approximately 260,000 tonnes. This experiment aims to identify microplastic levels in local water sources including Lake Michigan and various faucet water collections. The method for analysis is wet sieving and wet peroxide oxidation. By investigating microplastic levels in water, we aim to gain a greater understanding of its impacts on the body, aquatic creatures and the ecosystem.

Determining the Potential Use of Microalgae as a Biopesticide on Brassica Rapa and the Effect of Salinization on Both Plant and MicroalgaeNick PerryCollege of Lake County

Abstract: With an ever-increasing global population, the need for massive crop yields in commercial agriculture is tremendous. A notable hindrance to agricultural production is the presence of natural pests. Synthetic pesticides pose potential health risks to humans, animals and the environment. Biopesticides might provide an alternative to controlling harmful organisms in plants and the soil. Salinization also contributes to environmental stress. The goal of this study is to determine the benefits of microalgae in the development and yield of Brassica Rapa and determine the effect of salinization on both plant and microalgae. If microalgae are unaffected by salinization, they might provide an alternative to chemical control of pests.


Green RecoveryNoe RodriguezCollege of Lake County

Abstract: “Use of drought tolerant plant compounds as a means of recovery in water deprived plants.” Plants and grasses deprived of water, such as in cases of drought, experience significant stress, sometimes leading to death. Recovery from this state can be prolonged or impossible. In the absence of an abundant water supply, an alternative or adjuvant recovery aid would be environmentally beneficial. Therefore, the purpose of this study is to determine the changes in recovery of water deprived plants with compounds found in drought tolerant plants. If drought tolerant plants possess compounds that assist in recovery of drought conditions, addition of these compounds to water deprived plants should assist in their recovery.

Lead in the Chicago Area: Social and Environmental ImpactsKate BullerMarcia Huerta-Pazos Logan FingerleKatera JohnsonPrairie State College

Abstract: The south suburbs of Chicago have in the past been disproportionately affected by environmental issues, particularly the presence of lead in the home, which can lead to neurological issues in children. We hypothesize that this is due to the area’s lower average level of income. We plan to look at the records of past and current levels of lead in the south suburbs and compare them to other areas of Chicago. The purpose of this project is to bring these environmental hazards to the forefront of the minds of those who live in these communities that are affected.


The Effects of Organic and Non-Organic Honey Crisp Apples on Soil Quality and Plant GrowthHeather SeidelCollege of Lake County

Abstract: The focus of this experiment is to determine if organic versus non-organic composted material impacts soil quality. Three types of testing were performed, Microorganism culture growth, a decomposition test, and a plant growth rate with additives from organic and non-organic apples in the soil. A major goal of this study was to determine if the added wax coating on the non-organic composted apples inhibited or encouraged more or less bacteria and fungi thereby affecting soil quality and decomposition rates. If the presence of a waxy coating on the non-organic apples does affect soil quality, then decomposition and soil microbes will be affected.

Vertical Hydroponic GardenAndy AvalosMorton College

Abstract: The hydroponic project aims to fix the issue of growing vegetation in an area with limited space and irrigation. It eliminates excess water waste, weeds, lack of attending personnel and continuous attention. Using PVC pipes as a frame, two Arduino/Genuino Uno, and a Raspberry Pi that acts as the control hub, we can create a green, efficient and automatic method to grow small vegetation such as spices, herbs and vegetables. The garden can hold 160 plants in total, and is user-friendly enough to be put in a classroom for students to grow plants and maintain it.


Kathleen Beilsmith, Ph.D. Data Science and Learning Division, Argonne National LaboratoryPh.D., Ecology and Evolution, 2020, University of ChicagoB.A., Biological Sciences, 2012, University of Chicago

Kathleen Beilsmith studies how plants interact with features of their environments, specifically the microbial organisms living in leaf tissues. Using computational methods, she surveys the DNA signatures that microbes leave in their hosts and simulate the responses of plant metabolism to the introduction of pathogens. The goal of this work is to learn how ecological interactions shape plant health so we can better cultivate or engineer plants to survive even in challenging environments. Beyond research, she enjoys teaching biology and academic writing as well as playing softball.

Kevin A. Brown, Ph.D.Postdoctoral Appointee,Argonne National LaboratoryPh.D., Mathematical and Computing Sciences, 2018, Tokyo Institute of Technology (Japan)

B.S., Computing and Information Technology, 2008, University of Technology, Jamaica

Brown is a postdoctoral appointee at the Argonne National Laboratory, where he investigates new networking technologies and helps design future supercomputers, driving discoveries in all

JUDGES


fields of science and technology. He has worked on topics such as big data, performance analysis and visualization, and network simulation and modelling. Brown previously has worked in industry as a systems administrator and in other national research laboratories in Japan, Spain and the U.S.

Aashutosh Mistry, Ph.D.Ph.D., Mechanical Engineering, 2019, Purdue University

M.Tech., Mechanical Engineering, 2014, Indian Institute of Technology Kanpur, India

B.Tech., Mechanical Engineering, 2012, National Institute of Technology Surat, India

Mistry is a postdoctoral appointee in the Chemical Sciences and Engineering Division at Argonne

National Laboratory. He has received many awards, including the MRS Graduate Student Award and the ECS Summer Fellowship. His research interest is understanding mechanisms that limit electrochemical systems. He combines physics-based analysis, data-driven predictions, and controlled experiments to probe such mechanisms. He is curious about leveraging such fundamental insights for designing the next-generation energy storage systems.

Shefali Saxena, Ph.D.Beamline Controls Group, X-ray Science Division, Argonne National LaboratoryPh.D., Nuclear Engineering, 2019, North Carolina State University

M.Tech., Nuclear Engineering, 2013, Indian Institute of Technology Kanpur, India

B.Tech, Electronics and Communication Engineering, 2010, Rajasthan Technical University, India

Saxena’s research interests are analog and digital data acquisition systems, radiation detection and measurements, timing and trigger systems, and control systems. She works in designing new tools and


infrastructure supporting the Advance Photon Source’s (APS) beamlines in the X-ray Science Division at Argonne National Laboratory. She develops controls and instrumentation that provide critical tools to run the APS’s beamline experiments. Saxena also works in development of Field-Programmable Gate Array-based radio frequency readout and controls for quantum information systems that can be used as a flexible instrument to control and characterize new qubits and detectors or as a module in a multi-module architecture for a large detector instrument or quantum computer.

Elizabeth Stefanski, Ph.D.Coordinating Technical Writer, Editor, Communications and Public Affairs Division,Argonne National LaboratoryPh.D., Biology, 1974, University of Chicago

M.S., Genetics, 1969, University of Wisconsin-Madison

B.S., Biology, 1968, Brandeis University

After completing a postdoctoral appointment studying the genetics of murine tumor viruses, Stefanski joined Argonne as a technical editor. She later served in policy and planning positions at the Advanced Photon Source and in the Argonne director’s office, and was the technology transfer manager at the Superconducting Super Collider, a particle physics laboratory near Dallas.

JUDGES CONT.


Thank you to the Illinois Skyway Collegiate Conference Representatives:

Board of PresidentsCollege of Lake County ..........................................Dr. Lori Suddick

Elgin Community College ......................................... Dr. David Sam

McHenry County College .....................................Dr. Clint Gabbard

Moraine Valley Community College .................Dr. Sylvia M. Jenkins

Morton College ........................................................ Dr. Stan Fields

Oakton Community College ................................ Dr. Joianne Smith

Prairie State College ........................Dr. Thomas D. Saban (interim)

Waubonsee Community College .......................Dr. Christine Sobek

Board of RepresentativesCollege of Lake County ................................................Gabriel Lara

Elgin Community College ..............................Dr. Gregory Robinson

McHenry County College .............................. Dr. Talia Koronkiewicz

Moraine Valley Community College ........Dr. Normah Salleh-Barone

Morton College ...................................................Marisol Velazquez

Oakton Community College ......................................Juletta Patrick

Prairie State College ....................................... Dr. Michael Anthony

Waubonsee Community College ............................ Dr. Scott Peska


Co-Curricular DirectorsCollege of Lake County ...............................................Jorge Tennin

Elgin Community College ......................................Amybeth Maurer

McHenry County College ....................................... Megan Scanlan

Moraine Valley Community College ......................Dr. Lisa S. Kelsay

Morton College .........................................................Gabriela Mata

Oakton Community College ....................................... Krissie Harris

Prairie State College ................................................. Helen Manley

Waubonsee Community College ............................. Dr. Mary Tosch

STEM Faculty RepresentativesCollege of Lake County .......................................... Cindy Trombino

College of Lake County .......................................... Jeanine E. Seitz

Elgin Community College ............................................. Ted Eltzroth

McHenry County College ...........................................Archna Goyal

Moraine Valley Community College ......................... Dr. Ryen Nagle

Morton College ...........................................................Sara Helmus

Oakton Community College .............................................Gloria Liu

Prairie State College .................................................. Erica Lannan

Prairie State College ............................................Christine Brooms

Waubonsee Community College .............................Dave Voorhees

Waubonsee Community College ...............................Pratima Jindal


• Argonne National Laboratory Judges Dr. Beilsmith, Dr. Brown, Dr. Mistry, Dr. Saxena, and Dr. Stefanski

• Speakers Kelsey Golk, Salam Mulhem, Juleah PingHua Richardson, and Jonathon Rojas

• The many departments at Moraine Valley that assisted in creating this virtual competition, including Information Technology; Liberal Arts; Marketing and Communications; and Science, Business and Computer Technology.

THANK YOU TO:

21-0121A

Documents

2021 STEM - Moraine Valley Community College