{"id":6219,"date":"2018-05-18T12:12:47","date_gmt":"2018-05-18T16:12:47","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.monmouth.edu\/school-of-science\/summer-research-mentors-and-projects\/"},"modified":"2026-03-12T14:44:12","modified_gmt":"2026-03-12T18:44:12","slug":"projects","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/www.monmouth.edu\/school-of-science\/srp\/projects\/","title":{"rendered":"Faculty Research Mentors and Projects"},"content":{"rendered":"\n
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Apply to the 2026 Research Program<\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n

Summer Research Program 2026<\/h2>\n\n\n

Biology<\/a> || Chemistry<\/a> || Computer Science and Software Engineering<\/a> || Mathematics<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Biology<\/h2>\n\n

Project: eDNA Biodiversity in Marine Environments<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n

Faculty Mentor: Jason E. Adolf, Ph.D.<\/a><\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n

Biodiversity is an important ecological measurement used to assess marine communities. Traditionally this is done by catching, identifying and counting organisms, whether \u2018micro\u2019 or \u2018macro\u2019. While capture surveys are still important, genomics-based technologies are being developed that allow biodiversity of a wide range of organisms to be determined by sequencing DNA left behind in the environment where they live, so called environmental DNA or \u2018eDNA\u2019. Projects this summer will focus on using eDNA to determine fish, invertebrate and prokaryotic biodiversity in regional waters. Projects will involve a combination of field sampling, laboratory analyses, as well as bioinformatic and ecological analyses on the computer, and preparation of results for professional presentation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Project: Climate Change Impacts on Maritime Forests<\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/h3>\n\n

Faculty Mentor:<\/strong> Pedram Daneshgar, Ph.D.<\/a><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n

Maritime forests are rare and threatened ecosystems that occur in close proximity to the ocean where they are constantly exposed to salt. Because of their location they are often threatened by development, but also by climate change impacts such a rising sea level. The Daneshgar lab will be exploring the impacts of sea level rise and salt marsh encroachment on juvenile maritime forest species through greenhouse experiments. Students will also participate in outreach efforts to educate communities about climate impacts on maritime forests.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Project: Sustainable Agriculture and Health<\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/h3>\n\n

Faculty Mentor:<\/strong> Pedram Daneshgar, Ph.D.<\/a><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n

The productivity and health benefits of many of our important agricultural crops are dependent on environment and sustainable practices.\u00a0Through field and greenhouse experiments, the Daneshgar lab will explore how environmental stress and agricultural practice may impact the productivity of two major crops: coffee and blueberries. To follow, through lab work, the group examine how environment shapes the health benefits offered by these crops.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Project: Stress Signaling in Normal and Cancerous Cells<\/h3>\n\n

Faculty Mentors:<\/strong> Dottie Lobo, Ph.D.<\/a>, and James Mack, Ed.D<\/a><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n

One project to be addressed is the influence of specific essential oils on cell signaling pathways and the stress response of normal and cancerous cells grown in culture. With the rise of antibiotic resistance, there has been increased emphasis on alternative, natural products that may be used in medicine. Previous research in this laboratory has indicated that cypress essential oil treatment leads to decreased proliferation and apoptosis in a variety of human cell lines. This summer, we would like to continue to study the effects of cypress essential oils on the control of proliferation and apoptosis in cancer cell lines, and to compare all results to normal cell lines. This project should be nearing completion, and work on additional essential oils may be initiated. A second project may be done to evaluate the role of hypoxia in stress signaling. Additionally, there has been work performed to characterize the anti-bacterial role of essential oils at Monmouth, We will also address the effects of specific essential oils on the growth of multidrug resistant bacteria including: Acinobacter baumanni, Enterobacter cloacae<\/em>, and Klebsiella pneumonia<\/em>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Project: Genetic and Physiological Regulation of Aggression Using Drosophila Melanogaster<\/em> as a Model<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n

Faculty Mentor:<\/strong> Saheli Sengupta, Ph.D.<\/a><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n

Aggression is a complex and evolutionarily conserved behavior shaped by genetic, neural, and physiological states. Dysregulation of aggression is associated with multiple neurological and neurodegenerative disorders, yet the mechanisms by which molecular perturbations and internal states influence aggressive behavior remain poorly understood. This project uses Drosophila melanogaster<\/em> as a genetically tractable model to investigate how defined genetic insults and metabolic states regulate aggression and related behaviors.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Data generated from these two projects will contribute to peer-reviewed publications and support future external grant submissions.<\/p>\n\n\n

Project <\/strong>1<\/h4>\n\n\n

Project 1 focuses on characterizing the behavioral consequences of expressing full-length human Ataxin-2 (ATXN2) containing an expanded polyglutamine tract (117Q), a protein associated with neurodegenerative disease. Using the UAS\/GAL4 system, ATXN2-117Q has been expressed in select neuronal populations in the fly brain, including the mushroom bodies, which play key roles in learning and memory. Students will assess whether expression of this protein is toxic to specific neuronal populations by systematically quantifying changes in aggression, courtship, and locomotion. Behavioral analyses will be paired with anatomical and neurochemical characterization of affected neurons. Identification of the neurochemical identity of vulnerable neuronal populations will be conducted in collaboration with McLean Hospital, Harvard Medical School. These experiments will enable students to link neuronal vulnerability to specific behavioral outcomes and identify candidate neuronal populations and molecular pathways for future targeted genetic and functional studies.<\/p>\n\n\n

Project 2<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n

Project 2 examines the relationship between hunger and aggression. Students will establish a starvation paradigm that restricts food while preventing dehydration and assess how different durations of starvation (24, 48, and 72 hours) alter aggressive behavior in both male and female flies. To uncover molecular mechanisms underlying hunger-induced changes in aggression, bulk RNA sequencing will be performed on fly brains across starvation conditions. Differential gene expression analysis will be used to identify pathways and candidate genes associated with altered aggressive states, providing a foundation for follow-up functional experiments.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Project: Songbird and Drone Ecology in Suburbia<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n

Faculty Mentor:<\/strong> Sean Sterrett, Ph.D.<\/a><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n

Wildlife populations are constantly under pressure from local, national and global declines due to human activity. Urbanization and suburbanization are types of development that create challenging stressors for animals to persist (i.e., habitat loss, increasing levels of disease, collection for pet trade). These two projects aim to focus on wildlife populations in suburban environments, but from contrasting viewpoints; using drones to study turtle populations and evaluating the impacts of sound pollution on a highly vocal and diverse songbirds across New Jersey.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

There is growing evidence that drones have the potential to improve sampling for aquatic and terrestrial wildlife. However, there remains a need to evaluate the efficacy of these novel methods relative to traditional sampling protocols. As part of an external grant on developing drone-based protocols for sampling Diamond-backed terrapin (DT) populations, we will take the opportunity to collect drone images of DT populations and compare these to more traditional approaches for sampling DT populations (i.e., head count surveys).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Human-mediated impacts to forested ecosystems are clearly on the rise and these threats are often increased in suburban areas. Songbirds (suborder Passeri) are a highly diverse taxon in New Jersey with its proximity to the Atlantic Flyway, a major bird migration route. As a result of significant human development, the landscape of sound in New Jersey forests has changed (i.e., increased, chronic). Songbirds seasonally communicate vocally to attract mates, defend territories and warn of predators. Due to the change in landscape, we want to evaluate how songbird communities are influenced by sound pollution. We will approach this objective by determining representative areas with common songbird communities that have varying levels of ambient anthropogenic sound using Wildlife Acoustics Song Meter SM4 Acoustic Recorders and develop a sampling design for testing the hypothesis related to community metrics.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Project: Genetic Analysis of a Novel Chromatin Assembly Mutant in Drosophila<\/strong><\/strong><\/h3>\n\n

Faculty Mentor:<\/strong> Jennifer Urban, Ph.D.<\/a><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n

My lab is interested in how DNA replication-coupled chromatin assembly influences cell fate decisions during asymmetric cell division (ACD) in the Drosophila germline. ACD contributes to cellular diversity by producing two genetically identical daughter cells that adopt different cell fates. Disruption of this process can lead to infertility, tissue degeneration, and cancer. Histone chaperone proteins are known to regulation chromatin reassembly during DNA replication, however how these factors influence cell fate specification in a multicellular organism remains poorly understood.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

To address this question, we will use Drosophila<\/em> genetics to characterize a novel mutant allele I generated in a gene known to function in replication-coupled chromatin assembly. Preliminary observations revealed difficulty recovering adult males carrying the mutation, suggesting potential defects in viability or germline development. Two summer students will first determine whether mutant animals survive at expected Mendelian ratios, testing for developmental lethality. We will then assess reproductive fitness by measuring male and female fertility. Together these approaches will determine whether the mutation disrupts viability, germline development, or fertility. This work will provide foundational insight into how DNA replication machinery contributes to stem cell maintenance in vivo<\/em>. In addition to generating critical preliminary data for future mechanistic studies, the project will offer students hands-on training in classical genetics, experimental design, and data analysis.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Chemistry<\/h2>\n\n

Project: Exploring Local Structures in DNA Conformational Transitions with Fluorescent Base Analogs<\/strong><\/strong><\/h3>\n\n

Faculty Mentor: Davis Jose, Ph.D.<\/a><\/h4>\n\n\n

Investigate how local base-stacking and hydrogen-bonding rearrangements facilitate the interconversion between various DNA conformations, and examine how small-molecule ligands influence these transitions at specific nucleotide sites.<\/p>\n\n\n

Background and Significance<\/strong><\/h5>\n\n\n

DNA, the carrier of genetic information in living organisms, is highly adaptable and exhibits conformational polymorphism. Besides the well-known Watson-Crick B-form double helix, it can also assume structures like A-form, Z-form, G-quadruplexes (GQ), and i-motif. This polymorphism is essential for many key biological functions. For example, A-form DNA facilitates DNA packaging, while G-quadruplex structures in guanine-rich regions of DNA and RNA are important in cancer and aging. DNA\u2019s dynamic nature allows it to switch between conformations easily, which has diverse applications.  However, the exact mechanisms of DNA conformational interconversion remain experimentally unexplored. Gaining this understanding is crucial for unlocking DNA’s potential in biotechnology.<\/p>\n\n\n

Methods and Approaches<\/strong><\/h5>\n\n\n

Optical spectroscopy methods with fluorescent and CD-active base analogues, site-specifically placed into nucleic acid frameworks, will monitor global and local conformational changes. This unique approach tracks individual base-pair changes at specific locations, without interference from canonical bases, revealing base-pair orientation, stacking perturbations, and backbone fluctuations at single-base-pair resolution during transitions. Synthetic small organic molecules will be introduced to dissect their contributions. Results from multiple techniques will be integrated to map basic mechanisms and pathways.<\/p>\n\n\n

Expected Outcomes<\/strong><\/h5>\n\n\n

This research aims to clarify how the local DNA conformation changes during various transitions, thereby improving understanding of processes such as gene regulation, telomere maintenance, cancer, and aging. These insights will guide drug development, such as GQ stabilizers to prevent tumor growth, or the identification of disease origins, such as GQ unwinding defects in premature aging syndromes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Project: Substituted Quinoline Complexes of the Group 6 Transition Metals<\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/h3>\n\n

Faculty Mentor: Gregory Moehring, Ph.D.<\/a><\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n

Quinoline-8-carbaldehyde (Q8C, Figure 1) is a substance of considerable interest.  Q8C serves as a substrate for several catalytic transformations.  Q8C, or its derivative quinoline-8-acyl (Q8acyl) also serves as a ligand (a supporting portion) for molecular substances built around later transition metals such as rhodium, iridium, platinum, and palladium.  Our research group recently expanded the chemistry of Q8C and its derivatives by binding Q8C and its Q8acyl derivative to rhenium, a mid-transition metal.  We are interested in reactions of Q8C with rhenium-containing complexes for two reasons:  1) Q8C provided an excellent candidate substrate for the exploration of a new rhenium-based C-H bond activation and 2) Q8C and its derivatives, when bound to rhenium, can provide a potential scaffold on which to build new rhenium-centered cytotoxins (potential chemotherapeutics) or cell imaging agents (substances that are useful in examining mechanisms of cytotoxicity).  Our group has an interest in rhenium-based cytotoxins. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Figure 1.<\/strong> The structure of quinoline-8-carbaldehyde (Q8C).<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

This summer, we look to prepare and characterize Q8C-supported complexes of chromium, molybdenum, and tungsten (the Group 6 metals of the Periodic Table).  The proposed research continues our search for inorganic-based cytotoxins as potential chemotherapeutics.  Certain molybdenum-containing complexes with two or more supporting carbonyl groups are cytotoxic.  Furthermore, our work with rhenium has shown a remarkably low energy barrier for the substitution of bidentate Q8C ligands by monodentate ligands such as acetonitrile or dimethyl sulfoxide.  We plan to use the series of M(CO)4<\/sub>(Q8C) (M = Cr, Mo, or W) target substances to further explore the substitution of transition metal-bound bidentate Q8C ligands by monodentate ligands.  Specifically, we want to determine if the formally zero oxidation state target substances, M(CO)4<\/sub>(Q8C), make the Q8C ligand even more readily substituted than in the comparable rhenium(I)-based ReBr(CO)3<\/sub>(Q8C) complex.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Project: Structure\/Function of Nucleic Acids: Aptamer, Riboswitch and DNA Enzyme<\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/h3>\n\n

Faculty Mentor: Jonathan Ouellet, Ph.D.<\/a><\/strong><\/h4>\n\n
Research Question or Problem<\/h5>\n\n\n

The lab is interested in synthetic biology, where the nucleic acids can specifically bind a small molecule to relate an action. This summer\u2019s projects further the overall lab goals. Among the projects, one is to test the efficiency of a fluorescence RNA aptamer by adding new chemical compounds that can interfere with the RNA G-Quadruplex structure. Another project is to perform fluorescence kinetics of a DNA enzyme that cuts DNA in presence of Zn++<\/sup>.<\/p>\n\n\n

Background and Significance<\/h5>\n\n\n

Several RNA G-Quadruplexes have been found in viruses and some mammalian genes. In viruses, the G-Quadruplex seems to be involved in the reproduction live cycle of the virus. Interfering with that timing was shown to lower virus titers. Since the fluorescence of the RNA aptamer is directly linked to the structure of the G-Quadruplex, it is used as a signal to indicate the stability of the G-Quadruplex in presence of new compounds.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The existence of a DNA enzyme cutting DNA is extremely rare. Very little is known about hat DNA enzyme. The first step in understanding its cleavage mechanism for optimization is to understand its kinetics. Using a DNA substrate containing 2-aminopurine, the kinetic can be measured using fluorescence spectroscopy.<\/p>\n\n\n

Methods and Approaches<\/h5>\n\n\n

The students will perform PCR and in vitro transcription to produce RNA. After acrylamide gel purification, the RNA is used with fluorescence spectroscopy by performing fluorescence melting curves. The extracted Tm (melting temperature) is an indication of the G-Quadruplex stability. The melting curves are then measured again, but in the presence of the various new chemical compounds.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The DNA Enzyme and fluorescent Substrate are incubated in their buffer solution in a thermoregulated cuvette into the fluorescence spectrometer. Last year, we purchased a special spectrophotometer lid that accepts a needle to inject sample into the cuvette through a small hole. Here, Zn++<\/sup> will be injected to initiate the cleavage catalysis. The real-time monitoring of fluorescence will allow to calculate the observed rate of cleavage of the reaction.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Project: Separation of Anions Using Metal Organic Frameworks<\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/h3>\n\n

Faculty Mentor: Debmalya Ray, Ph.D.<\/a><\/strong><\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n

Developing energy-efficient separations can save the US petrochemical sectors 100 million tons in CO2<\/sub> emission and US $4 billion in energy costs annually. Most commonly used separation process (i.e., distillation) accounts for 10\u201315% of the world\u2019s energy consumption. Thus, development of inexpensive and energy-efficient separations techniques based on chemical properties or size are the need of the century. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) are a class of highly crystalline, porous, stable, and extremely tunable materials with limitless designing space. This makes MOFs ideal candidate for separation applications. Thus, in this research direction, I plan to study separation of anions (NO3<\/sub>–<\/sup>, TcO4<\/sub>–<\/sup>, ReO4<\/sub>–<\/sup>, HMoO4<\/sub>–<\/sup>, SO4<\/sub>2-<\/sup>, BiO3<\/sub>–<\/sup>). Separation of ions like TcO4<\/sub>– <\/sup>from other anions is important for nuclear waste management purpose as the high mobility and volatility of TcO4<\/sub>–<\/sup> ion is one of the major safety challenges, relevant to the nuclear industry. Thus, in this project we will design metal organic frameworks which can effectively separate TcO4<\/sub>– <\/sup>from other anions mentioned above. We will use density functional theory and ab-initio molecular dynamics-based approach to study such chemical separation processes. We expect to publish our result in American Chemical Society journals and present them in national and local conferences.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Project: Surface Aging and Mineral Coating of Microplastics in Marine Environments: Implications for Contaminant Mobility<\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/h3>\n\n

Faculty Mentor: Tsanangurayi Tongesayi, Ph.D.<\/a><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n

Microplastics (MPs) in marine environments undergo physical, chemical, and biological aging that alters their surfaces and affects how they interact with contaminants. This interdisciplinary project investigates how MPs\u2014of various polymer types collected from coastal waters\u2014change through exposure to minerals, natural organic matter, sunlight, and environmental conditions. The work integrates analytical chemistry, marine sampling, environmental science, and materials characterization to understand how these transformations influence contaminant mobility.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Preliminary data from my research lab provides a foundation for this work.<\/strong> Laboratory experiments using polyethylene terephthalate microplastics (PET\u2011MP) show that minerals such as goethite (GT) and kaolin (KL) attach to MP surfaces through both physical and chemical mechanisms. FT\u2011IR analysis reveals shifts in O\u2013H stretching vibrations, decreases in PET ester functional group intensities, and spectral broadening, indicating hydrogen bonding and van der Waals interactions for KL, and hydrogen bonding plus electrostatic interactions for GT. XRF confirms substantial GT adsorption (Fe \u2248 9190 \u00b1 50 ppm), while XPS shows shifts in C1s and O1s binding energies, demonstrating changes in surface functional groups and mineral attachment. GT forms localized reactive patches, whereas KL produces broader coatings.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Students will compare these laboratory\u2011aged MPs with marine\u2011aged MPs collected from local waters. Because environmental MPs experience much longer and more variable aging times, comparisons will explicitly account for differences in exposure duration, environmental conditions, and polymer type. Students will identify and characterize marine MPs before comparing their surface chemistry to laboratory\u2011aged samples.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The project will address three interdisciplinary questions:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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  1. How do these changes affect contaminant mobility, microplastic sedimentation, and biogeochemical cycling?<\/li>\n\n\n\n
  2. How do marine and laboratory aging processes modify MP surface chemistry and structure?<\/li>\n\n\n\n
  3. How do mineral and organic coatings influence adsorption of metals and metalloids?<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n
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    Computer Science and Software Engineering<\/h2>\n\n

    Project: Quantum Computing for Cybersecurity Applications<\/strong><\/strong><\/h3>\n\n

    Faculty Mentor: Brian Callahan, Ph.D.<\/a><\/strong><\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n

    Quantum computing is a new computing paradigm that is beginning to show promise in a wide variety of fields such as drug discovery and finance. Able to mine through high-dimensionality data in ways that will be forever impossible to classical computers, now is the perfect time to start exploiting quantum\u2019s power in other fields with data of similar shapes. Cybersecurity is such a field, and one where quantum computing is thought of as a negative due to quantum\u2019s potential for disruption in cracking cryptography, and, therefore, stealing secrets.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

    This project seeks to continue already published work by the faculty sponsor (Cotrupi and Callahan 2025<\/a>), grant-funded research by current MU students (Ramirez Velandia, Cotrupi, and Callahan forthcoming), and other work by Monmouth University Cybersecurity Research Center students (Carducci forthcoming). This research lays the groundwork to build a commercial-off-the-shelf product for cybersecurity professionals that harnesses the power of quantum computing to accelerate the discovery of Indicators of Compromise, including malicious network traffic, phishing emails, and anomalous user behavior. We aim to revolutionize how organizations protect themselves against modern cyber threats by providing them with a platform that will deliver speed and accuracy that can never be matched by classical machines.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

    This project will engage in cutting-edge quantum algorithm and quantum machine learning technique development, incorporating current state-of-the-art techniques such as QSVM and quantum kernels, and developing optimizations for these techniques on a real-world quantum computer, an IBM Quantum System One<\/a>. We may potentially develop new quantum algorithms and quantum machine learning techniques. Programming will be done using IBM\u2019s Qiskit IDE, eventually being made accessible through a web application.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

    Immediate expected outcomes are journal articles and conference presentations. Long-term expected outcomes are patents and potentially a commercial entity to sell and support our quantum cybersecurity platform to companies worldwide.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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    Project: Implementing GArel: Bidirectional Type Checking for Relational Array Analysis<\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/h3>\n\n

    Faculty Mentor: Weihao Qu, Ph.D.<\/a><\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n

    This research focuses on the practical implementation of GArel<\/strong>, a relational type and effect system designed to verify quantitative properties in programs that manipulate mutable arrays. While theoretical frameworks for relational cost analysis exist, their implementation often suffers from high complexity and low automation. To address these challenges, this project focuses on developing a high-performance type checker utilizing bidirectional type checking<\/strong> techniques.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

    Bidirectional typing is a powerful algorithmic strategy that splits type checking into two modes\u2014inference and checking\u2014greatly reducing the need for manual type annotations and improving error reporting. By applying this technique to GArel, we can more efficiently track customizable relations within array information and manage the system’s parameterizable grading mechanism. This implementation is critical for scaling GArel to handle complex, real-world functional programs that rely on mutable state. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

    The student researcher will work on translating GArel\u2019s theoretical rules into an algorithmic formulation suitable for bidirectional checking. This involves integrating the checker with advanced SMT solvers<\/strong> to automate the verification of quantitative relational properties, such as relative execution cost or memory usage. The resulting tool will serve as a practical platform for reasoning about program behavior, directly contributing to the state of the art in formal program analysis. This work is part of a larger research initiative supported by an NSF CRII grant<\/strong> (#2451348) focused on formal verification.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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    Mathematics<\/h2>\n\n

    Project: A Mathematical Model of Misinformation<\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/h3>\n\n

    Faculty Mentor: Torrey Gallagher, Ph.D.<\/a><\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n

    This project will study how the opinions of individuals in groups evolve over time, and the ways in which individuals can strategically influence the dynamics of a group.  This problem has classical roots in the mathematical economics fields of Decision Theory and Social Choice Theory and was first studied by Morris DeGroot who proposed a model in which trust between individuals remained constant throughout time, and opinion updates occurred in discrete time intervals.  This model has many interesting features and leads to useful and quantifiable long-term dynamics (such as the group reaching a consensus versus forming multiple subgroups with differing opinions versus periodic cycling of opinions).  However, it has some significantly unrealistic assumptions; most notably, the assumption that trust between individuals remains fixed throughout time. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

    In this project, we will consider reasonable criteria that should govern trust updates and study the resulting long-term dynamics.  Of particular interest will be classifying the initial opinions which lead to consensus versus polarization, and the effect of agents supplying misinformation on the long-term group dynamics.  The problem sits naturally at the intersection of graph theory, matrix analysis (linear algebra), and numerical analysis.  As such, a mixture of pen-and-paper analysis and coding experiments will be required.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

    Summer Research Program Faculty Research Mentors –>\u00a0 FACULTY MEMBER: Dr. Richard Bastian Lecturer DEPARTMENT: Mathematics E-MAIL: rbastian@monmouth.edu RESEARCH PROJECT TITLE & Descriptions 1. Differences Between Several Methods of Taking Blood Pressure in Dogs. Consulting project in conjunction with Garden State Veterinary Hospital. Statistical analysis and interpretation of data. 2. Comparing Infection Rates in 3 Surgical Methods for Repairing Torn ACL’s of Dogs. Consulting project in conjunction with Garden State Veterinary Hospital. Statistical analysis and interpretation of data. 3. Predicting the Yield of NJ Vineyard Grapes (Collaboration with Pedram Daneshgar in Biology). Statistical design, data collection & analysis (types of tests, sample sizes, power, effect sizes, etc) needed to answer research questions about the new MU vineyard and its use by the NJ wine industry. 4. Training Regimens in Lacrosse (Collaboration with Bernadette Dunphy in Biology). Consulting project in conjunction with trainers and physical therapists on the efficacy of new training regimens for lacrosse players. 5. Comparing Toxins in Several Species of Fish in NJ Coastal Waters. Consulting project in conjunction with Sandy Hook NOAA Lab. PLEASE NOTE: This faculty member is not accepting high school students. FACULTY MEMBER: Dr. Micah Chrisman Assistant Professor DEPARTMENT: Mathematics E-MAIL: mchrisma@monmouth.edu RESEARCH PROJECT TITLE & DESCRIPTION Loop Counting of Knot Families with Applications to the HOMFLY-PT Polynomial Many knot and virtual knot invariants can be computed by loop counting. By smoothing some subset of the crossings in a certain way, the coefficients of the polynomial can be computed (Chmutov-Khoury-Rossi, Chmutov-Polyak, Brandenbursky-Polyak). We will investigate the combinatorics of the HOMFLY-PT polynomial when it is evaluated on infinite parametrized families of knots. This can be done systematically by using a modification of Zulli’s loop counting principle and a modification of spectral graph theory (Chrisman). Some families to consider would be twist lattices, closed braids, and torus knots. PLEASE NOTE: This faculty member is not accepting high school students. FACULTY MEMBER: Dr. Joseph Coyle Associate Professor and Director of Financial Mathematics DEPARTMENT: Mathematics E-MAIL: jcoyle@monmouth.edu RESEARCH PROJECT TITLE & DESCRIPTION Preconditioning Techniques for Nonsymmetric Matrices The first phase of the project will consist of a numerical and analytical investigation into well-known preconditioning techniques for Krylov subspace methods using symmetric matrices. The second phase will be an attempt to develop a stable and efficient method for nonsymmetric matrices based on the observations from the first phase. PLEASE NOTE: This faculty member is not accepting high school students. \u00a0 FACULTY MEMBER: Dr. Pedram Daneshgar Assistant Professor DEPARTMENT: Biology E-MAIL: pdaneshg@monmouth.edu RESEARCH PROJECT TITLE & DESCRIPTION Restoration Ecology of Coastal Dunes \u00a0 Following the disastrous effects of Superstorm Sandy on our coastal ecosystems, the need for dune restoration is greater than ever. We will explore restoration methodologies by participating in dune restoration projects. We will also explore impacts of large storms on our coastal ecosystems. FACULTY MEMBER Bernadette Dunphy Specialist Professor DEPARTMENT: Biology E-MAIL: bdunphy@monmouth.edu RESEARCH PROJECT TITLE & Descriptions 1. The effect of reduced visual stimulus during catching and throwing a lacrosse ball \u00a0 Sports performance and the training necessary to improve an athlete’s skills has become an essential component in all athletic endeavors. Strength, power, endurance, speed and agility are important components of every successful athlete’s training program. Recently there has been heightened interest in the effect visual stimulus has on athletic performance. Nike has introduced the Nike Sparq Strobe eyewear, which allows the athlete to train with a reduction of visual stimulus. The amount of visual feedback can be varied at 8 different levels and for both eyes or each eye individually. The use of reduced visual stimulus during the catching and throwing of a lacrosse ball is a method of improving the reaction time, peripheral vision and overall focus necessary to improve a player’s stick skills. The purpose of this poster is to determine if the strobe eyewear can improve an athlete’s ability to catch and throw with more precise and consistency. 2. The effect of reduced concurrent visual feedback on exercise performance Concurrent visual feedback is utilized to enhance the effects of exercise. This poster will utilize the Right Weigh Exercise Guidance System and the Nike Sparq strobe eyewear. The purpose of this study is to determine if providing reduced visual feedback will affect exercise performance as compared to constant feedback. The Right Weigh Exercise Guidance System (RWEGS) provides visual feedback to the individual as to the speed, range of motion and accuracy of each repetition. This has been shown to increase the number of muscle fibers recruited during the concentric and eccentric phases of each repetition. The Nike Sparq Stobe eyewear allows the user to control the amount of visual feedback to the individual exerciser. This amount of visual stimulus reduction can be adjusted on eight levels. This reduction of visual stimulus can also be adjusted for both eyes or individually. 3. The utilization of rope undulation as an alternative to traditional shoulder strengthening techniques in young athletes \u00a0 Shoulder strength is an important factor in maintaining shoulder stability. Because the shoulder joint is capable of movement in all planes, shoulder stability is more dependent on muscular force couples and soft tissue constraints then other joints. Traditional strength training of the shoulder musculature has focused on individual muscles and even individual aspects of each muscle. This requires long periods of training time and perfect technique. One can easily observe that in a local gym that the principles of shoulder force couples and ideal joint kinematics are not practiced. This is true while utilizing weight machines, dumbbells or other free weight exercises. To attain proper form many years of practice to avoid shoulder injuries during training, in an effort to increase shoulder muscle mass. This is very important in young athletes who lack the experience in the weight room and become more subject to training injuries. Young athletes appear more interested in the “quantity vs. quality” of each exercise for a multitude of reasons. There has been a reemergence of specific “strongman” exercises into the athletic population. An example of this is the use of rope undulation, whereby; various diameter and length of ropes are utilized to increase strength. There is an unlimited variety of exercises that can be performed due to the portability of the ropes and the ease of creating movement in all three planes of motion. The purpose of this study is to determine if exercises utilizing rope undulation can be as effective as traditional shoulder strengthening exercises 4. The efficacy of utilizing proprioception techniques in the early stages of Grade I ankle sprains Ankle sprains are a very common injury in running sports. Sports like soccer, basketball, field hockey and lacrosse have a higher than average incidence of ankle injuries. It is important to have athletes return to play as soon as possible but equally as important to avoid further injury. Returning to the playing field could lead to a chronic ankle injury, which becomes more difficult to treat. Grade 1 ankle sprains are characterized by minimal to moderate swelling of the lateral ankle with minimal or no ecchymosis. Most commonly the fibers of the anterior talofibular ligament are “stretched” and the area is tender to palpating. There may be fibers of the calcaneofibular involved as well or isolated involvement. Immediate treatment has involved rest, elevation, compression, ice and sometimes the use of prophylactic bracing. The purpose of this poster is to utilize early mobility, balance and proprioception techniques to decrease the loss of muscle strength and joint mechanoreceptors. This would allow the athlete to return to the playing field sooner and safer. This approach would address the issue of recurrent ankle sprains. FACULTY MEMBER: Dr. Catherine N. Duckett Associate Dean, School of Science DEPARTMENT: Biology E-MAIL: cduckett@monmouth.edu RESEARCH PROJECT TITLE & DESCRIPTION Insect Diversity in Monmouth County: The insect diversity of Monmouth County is poorly documented in comparison with other counties in New Jersey. The research involves the collection, mounting, and identification of insects. A full sampling of the county parks is planned. Students with interests in a particular taxon like bees or dragonflies will be encouraged to develop a collection emphasizing the group of interest. Day trips to insect collections in New Brunswick or New York. Because insects are often most active early or late in the day students who can arrive on campus early may be given preference. Students with an interest in Chrysomelidae (Leaf Beetles) could become involved in additional projects involving molecular data. Biology Education students with interests in developing teaching projects involving insects are encouraged to apply. \u00a0 PLEASE NOTE: This faculty member is not accepting high school students. FACULTY MEMBER: Dr. Ursula A. Howson Assistant Professor DEPARTMENT: Biology E-MAIL: uhowson@monmouth.edu RESEARCH PROJECT TITLE & DESCRIPTION Barnegat Bay Zooplankton and Ichthyoplankton Research We will be taking biweekly boat trips to Barnegat Bay to conduct water quality tests and zooplankton tows as part of a larger study examining the overall health of the bay. Students will participate in the field sampling trips as well as zooplankton sorting, identification, and enumeration in the laboratory. We anticipate some interaction with NOAA partners. Occasional night sampling trips may be required. Students will also have the opportunity to learn fisheries stock assessment techniques used in larval fish ecology research. Students will extract otoliths (ear bones) from larval fish collected in the zooplankton tows, then use a polarized microscope and image analysis system to evaluate the age of the larvae. FACULTY MEMBER: Dr. Dmytro Kosenkov Assistant Professor DEPARTMENT: Chemistry, Medical Technology, and Physics E-MAIL: Dmytro Kosenkov RESEARCH PROJECT TITLE & DESCRIPTION Designing Next Generation Solar Cells: Modeling Energy Transfer in Biological Chromophores \u00a0 Mechanisms of energy transfer in biological molecules will be investigated to find new efficient ways of solar energy conversion into electricity and environmentally friendly fuels. Molecular modeling software based on novel quantum-mechanical methods will be used to obtain detailed molecular-level knowledge of the key mechanisms of light capture by biological and organic molecules\u2014chromophores. High performance\/supercomputing systems will be employed to carry out the simulations. PLEASE NOTE: This faculty member is not accepting high school students. FACULTY MEMBER: Dr. Dorothy Lobo Associate Professor DEPARTMENT: Biology E-MAIL: dlobo@monmouth.edu RESEARCH PROJECT TITLE & DESCRIPTION Oxidative Stress, Cellular Migration, and Regulation of Cellular Proliferation When grown in vitro in culture, normal human fibroblast cells will stop growing when the culture dish is saturated with a layer of cells, termed “contact inhibition”. Cells that are contact inhibited appear to be protected from oxidative stress. Our lab is examining the role of upstream regulators of MAP kinase proteins, MKKs, and a second class of proteins called cadherins in this process. There is some evidence that activation of cadherins may be altered in contact inhibited cells, and that this altered activation may regulate MAPK activity. Alterations in this pathway may regulate both stress survival and migration. PLEASE NOTE: This faculty member is not accepting high school students. FACULTY MEMBER Dr. Jia Luo Lecturer DEPARTMENT: Chemistry, Medical Technology, and Physics E-MAIL: jluo@monmouth.edu RESEARCH PROJECT TITLE & DESCRIPTION Development of Ratiometric Fluorescence Nanosensors to Detect Bisphenol A in Natural Water Protection of human health and ecosystem requires rapid, precise sensors capable of detecting pollutants at the molecular level. Currently, gas chromatography (GC), gas chromatography\/mass spectrometry (GC\/MS), high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC), and inductively coupled plasma mass spectroscopy (ICPMS) are among the methods widely used in environmental analysis. However, these methods are usually complicated, time-consuming, and costly. Nanotechnology offers the possibility of sensors enabled to selectively detect multiple analytes and to monitor their presence in real time. The aim of the research project is to develop a composite nanostructure incorporating an analyte-independent fluorescent core and an analyte-dependent room-temperature phosphorescent shell, which can be utilized as a photoluminescence sensor for bisphenol A (BPA), an endocrine disruptor. The students will gain hands-on experiences in nanomaterials synthesis and characterization, and learn the operation of a Hitachi F-7000 spectrofluorometer at the Chemistry Department. They will also develop better understanding of the photophysics behind luminescence when they try to tune the fluorescence spectra by processing the nanoparticles differently during the synthesis. FACULTY MEMBER: Dr. James Mack Professor DEPARTMENT: Biology E-MAIL: mack@monmouth.edu RESEARCH PROJECT TITLE & DESCRIPTION Study of the efficacy of plant essential oils and methylglyoxal in treating infections caused by multidrug resistant gram negative and gram positive bacteria. Plant essential oils such as, cinnamon oil, wintergreen oil, lemongrass oil and the aldehyde methylglyoxal will be tested for their efficacy in inhibiting the growth of several multidrug drug resistant bacteria using the Kirby-Bauer disk- diffusion method. The bacteria (ATCC) to be tested will include gram negative bacteria Klebsiella pneumoniae, Acinetobacter baumanni and Pseudomonas aeruginosa and the gram positive Clostridium difficile. PLEASE NOTE: This faculty member is not accepting high school students. FACULTY MEMBER: Dr. Susan H. Marshall Associate Professor DEPARTMENT: Mathematics E-MAIL: smarshal@monmouth.edu RESEARCH PROJECT TITLE & DESCRIPTION Investigations of Heronian Tetrahedra A Heronian tetrahedron has integer side lengths, face areas, and volume. The classification of Heronian tetrahedra is incomplete; students will work on completing the system used by Buchholz (1992)and Chisholm-MacDougall (2006). Students will investigate both the number theoretic and geometric properties of these objects, determining whether or not results about Heronian triangles extend to Heronian tetrahedra. \u00a0 PLEASE NOTE: This faculty member is not accepting high school students. FACULTY MEMBER: Dr. Greg Moehring Chair and Associate Professor DEPARTMENT: Chemistry, Medical Technology, and Physics E-MAIL: gmoehrin@monmouth.edu RESEARCH PROJECT TITLE & DESCRIPTION Pseuodorotational-type rearrangement at dodecahedral complexes Pseudorotation is a molecular rearrangement process that results in an object which appears to have only been rotated in space but actually involves changes in the steric relationships of the atoms within the molecule. The two most commonly described examples of pseudorotational rearrangements occur at certain five coordinate centers (the Berry pseudorotation) or for cycloalkanes such as cyclohexane. Below are examples of those commonly described pseudorotations. Pseudorotational-type rearrangements can occur for systems similar to those found below, such as PF4Cl or C6H11Br, although the lower symmetry means that these similar rearrangements are not truly formal pseudorotations because the two forms of the molecule are distinguishable from what would occur by a simple rotation of the molecule. PLEASE NOTE: This faculty member is not accepting high school students FACULTY MEMBER: James A. Nickels Marine Scientist DEPARTMENT: Urban Coast Institute E-MAIL: jnickels@monmouth.edu RESEARCH PROJECT TITLE & DESCRIPTION 1. Baseline study of Zooplankton in Barnegat Bay: Biweekly field sampling by boat in Barnegat Bay for collection and preparation of zooplankton for analysis. Cooperative program with NJDEP and NOAA Sandy Hook as part of NJ’s Barnegat Bay Initiative. 2. Real-time Water Quality Monitoring and Mapping in Coastal New Jersey: Ongoing project involves maintenance and operation of real-time water quality meter network, field collection of data in coastal lakes and Barnegat Bay, continued mapping and survey work in coastal lakes and bays FACULTY MEMBER: Dr. Michael A. Palladino Dean, School of Science Associate Professor of Biology DEPARTMENT: Biology E-MAIL: mpalladi@monmouth.edu Research Website: http:\/\/bluehawk.monmouth.edu\/mpalladi\/Student%20Research.html RESEARCH PROJECT TITLE & DESCRIPTION Cellular and molecular responses to testicular torsion injury. Antimicrobial properties of male reproductive organs. PLEASE NOTE: This faculty member is not accepting high school students. \u00a0 FACULTY MEMBER: Dr. Karen Pesce Biology Lecturer DEPARTMENT: Biology E-MAIL: kpesce@monmouth.edu RESEARCH PROJECT TITLE & DESCRIPTION Microbial Community Analysis and Characterization of Novel Biodegradative Genes from Polluted Environments \u00a0 Microorganisms play a vital role in the biodegradation of numerous environmental pollutants. Our work focuses on isolation and investigation of microbial species that can degrade these compounds. We use traditional microbiology as well as molecular approaches in order to gain insight into microbial diversity in contaminated environments and to elucidate novel biodegradative pathways. Most recently, this has included polyaromatic hydrocarbon degrading species and species that degrade personal care and pharmaceutical products. PLEASE NOTE: This faculty member is not accepting high school students. FACULTY MEMBER: Dr. Ellen Rubinstein Lecturer DEPARTMENT: Chemistry, Medical Technology and Physics E-MAIL: erubinst@monmouth.edu RESEARCH PROJECT TITLE & DESCRIPTION Nutrients and Dissolved Oxygen in Monmouth County Coastal Waters: Sustainability Concerns \u00a0 Previous studies have determined that nitrate levels in several Monmouth County coastal lakes are extremely high. It is probable that local population growth has been a large contributor to the addition of this nutrient, and of phosphates, to runoff. Negative effects of such concentrations include damage to fish populations as well as other deleterious effects on aquatic life. This project will extend our earlier work to study the correlation of dissolved oxygen with current nutrient levels. We will observe conditions at several sites close to the coast, collecting water samples. Dissolved oxygen levels will be measured on-site, with Vernier LabQuest equipment. Nitrate ion concentrations will be measured with an ion-selective electrode, either on site or in the laboratory, in conjunction with a computer program. Using analytical methods in the laboratory, including UV visible spectroscopy, we will also measure the concentration of phosphates in our samples. Our results will contribute to understanding the health of our local lakes, with regard to dissolved oxygen and nutrient concentrations, and may indicate locations for pollution reduction. PLEASE NOTE: This faculty member is not accepting high school students. FACULTY MEMBER: Dr. William Schreiber Lecturer DEPARTMENT: Chemistry, Medical Technology, and Physics E-MAIL: William Schreiber RESEARCH PROJECT TITLE & DESCRIPTION Application of Synthetic Organic Chemistry to Various Problems Short synthetic projects will be undertaken to prepare ligands for inorganic complexes (work to be done in collaboration with Dr. Moehring). Other work may be done to develop new experiments or refine existing ones for the Organic Chemistry laboratory. Analysis of Botanicals using Extraction Procedures followed by Gas Chromatography\/mass Spectrometry Botanicals of interest will be identified based on searching of the chemical literature and consultation with Dr. Daneshgar.\u00a0 Particular attention will be paid to odor and possible psychological effects thereof. PLEASE NOTE: This faculty member is not accepting high school students. FACULTY MEMBER: Professor John Tiedemann Assistant Dean and Director of Marine and Environmental Biology DEPARTMENT: Biology E-MAIL: jtiedema@monmouth.edu RESEARCH PROJECT TITLE & DESCRIPTION Invasive and Nuisance Species of Barnegat Bay The ctenophore Mnemiopsis leidyi is abundant in many mid-Atlantic estuaries during the summer. We have documented that Mnemiopsis is present in upper Barnegat Bay from May to November. Furthermore, Mnemiopsis typically comprises a major component of the summer macrozooplankton community within the upper bay. Continued monitoring of Mnemiopsis in Barnegat Bay, coupled with water quality monitoring, may serve as an indicator of trends taking place within living resources of the bay in relationship to changing environmental conditions. Changes in seasonal patterns of Mnemiopsis abundance or bloom conditions could have an impact on other populations of the bay since Mnemiopsis is a voracious predator that feeds on a diversity of zooplankton including ichthyoplankton and bivalve larvae. In recent years Sea nettles (Chrysaora quinquecirrha) have become increasingly abundant in estuaries of the mid-Atlantic. Sea nettles began appearing in northern Barnegat Bay in 2000, with highest concentrations reported in mid-summer. The appearance of large numbers of Sea nettles in the bay has been attributed to warmer summer water temperatures and increased eutrophication. Since 2011, we have collected C. quinquecirrha in upper Barnegat Bay in June, July, and August. Sea nettle abundance has varied spatially with highest densities occurring in late July each year. Understanding the seasonal patterns of sea nettle distribution and abundance in Barnegat Bay is important as Chrysaora is considered to be a nuisance species. For example, due to their severe sting, sea nettles pose a hazard to recreational users of the bay. During periods of abundance their predation may also exert control over populations of ichthyoplankton, bivalve larvae, and other zooplankton. As a result, large populations of Sea nettles may contribute to declines of commercially valuable fish and shellfish since they are predators on, and competitors for, the same food sources. The Asian shore crab (Hemigrapsus sanguineus) is native to the western Pacific. The occurrence of H. sanguineus along the U.S. Atlantic coast was first reported in 1988 at Townsends Inlet in Cape May, NJ. Since that time, Hemigrapsus has spread rapidly throughout the mid-Atlantic. Favoring mid and upper rocky intertidal habitats, in the Barnegat Bay region of New Jersey, Hemigrapsus has established populations along the inlet jetties of Barnegat Inlet and the Manasquan Inlet. We have collected Hemigrapsus megalopa larvae from three stations in upper Barnegat Bay during July and August 2012. Peak densities occurred at stations close to the mouth of the Point Pleasant Canal, which connects the bay to the Manasquan River Estuary. Our data suggest that larval Hemigrapsus are either being carried with the tides from the Manasquan Inlet area into upper Barnegat Bay through the canal or that Hemigrapsus has expanded into areas of suitable habitat within upper Barnegat Bay. If populations of Hemigrapsus become established in upper Barnegat Bay there is cause for concern. As opportunistic feeders with a broad diet, Asian shore crabs consume juvenile fish and small invertebrates including commercially valuable species such as blue crabs, blue mussels, soft shell clams, and eastern oysters. Along with impacts on populations of native species through predation and competition for food, local fisheries, shellfish restoration efforts, and the aquaculture industry could also be affected. PLEASE NOTE: This faculty member is not accepting high school students. \u00a0 FACULTY MEMBER: Dr. Tsanangurayi Tongesayi Associate Professor DEPARTMENT: Chemistry, Medical Technology and Physics E-MAIL: ttongesa@monmouth.edu RESEARCH PROJECT TITLE & DESCRIPTION 1. Nano-Chemical Separations 2. Nano-Mediated Fenton Catalysis The project involves the preparation and characterization of functionalized nanomaterials for applications in chemical separations and Fenton catalysis. The Fenton’s reaction has potential applications in the following areas: water treatment, dye waste treatment, pulp bleaching waste treatment, agricultural effluent treatment, landfill leachates treatment, industrial wastewater treatment and treatment of gas streams. The application of the Fenton technologies to the cleanup of natural solids still face some challenges because of: 1) interference from soil components, 2) the pH limitation of Fenton reactions, 3) difficulties in effectively dispersing reagents, and 4) the potential of altering the soil environment. In this project nano-mediated Fenton catalysis for the cleanup of natural solids will also be explored. This project will be imitated in the spring of 2013 and will continue through the summer. FACULTY MEMBER: Dr. Jiacun Wang Associate Professor and Department Chair DEPARTMENT: Computer Science and Software Engineering E-MAIL: jwang@monmouth.edu RESEARCH PROJECT TITLE & DESCRIPTION Web based electrical load management tool development for manufacturing plants Load management is actions taken by plants to change their load profile in order to gain from reduced system peak power demand and improved power factor. One widely used action for load management in industry is process rescheduling, which attempts to find optimal operation schedules for all electrical loads in a plant to achieve minimal power consumption and energy cost without sacrifice of plant productivity. In our previous work, we have developed an online system to help plants figure out power consumption and energy cost with a given load profile. The objective of this project is to add a new function to the system that will automatically generate a feasible set of load operation schedules given all loads and their parameters in a plant and let the user select the best one. \u00a0 FACULTY MEMBER: Dr. Cui Yu Associate Professor DEPARTMENT: Computer Science and Software Engineering E-MAIL: cyu@monmouth.edu RESEARCH PROJECT TITLE & DESCRIPTION Innovative Software Applications For Study, Work, and Social Life In today’s world, most people reply a lot on computer technologies and services in study, work, and life. While these technologies and services can save a lot of labor and time to accomplish many tasks such as writing letters, meeting with collaborators, sharing information, and etc, many people feel busier than ever because of more information and more tasks to deal with on regular base. In this research project, students will exploit advanced computer technologies to design and implement selected innovative applications that can make our study and work more efficient and our life much easier. FACULTY MEMBER: Dr. Xudong Yuan Scholar in Residence\/Researcher DEPARTMENT: Chemistry, Medical Technology and Physics E-MAIL: xyuan@monmouth.edu RESEARCH PROJECT TITLE & DESCRIPTION 1. Biodegradable Nanoparticles of Anticancer Drug In this project, an anticancer drug will be incorporated into biodegradable nanoparticles. HPLC method will be developed to analyze the loading efficiency drug release from the prepared nanoparticles. The cytotoxicity of nanoparticles will be evaluated in vitro in cancer cells. 2. Development of Fast Dissolving Drug Delivery System Different polymers will be used to prepare a new fast dissolving dosage form with a model drug. The new formulations will be optimized to achieve faster dissolving and quicker drug release. 3. Gene Delivery by Nanoparticles In this project, nanoparticles will be used as carrier of pDNA and siRNA for gene delivery. 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