Collegiate Division 1999.

Biological Science Section

Buencamino, R., A.J. Sutton and A. Eisenstark. Division of Biological Sciences and Department of Biochemistry, University of Missouri-Columbia and Cancer Research Center. GENETIC BASIS OF SURVIVAL OF BACTERIA DURING DORMANCY: ROLE OF RPOS REGULATORY GENE. The rpoS sigma factor regulates an array of genes controlling many essential protective functions in response to environmental stress and DNA damage. RpoS regulates several genes important in fundamental cellular processes that prepare the cell for entrance into stationary phase and for survival during dormancy. Mutations of rpoS (katF and nur) have been found to have severe or lethal effects on these cellular functions. Variants of RpoS protein may selectively initiate transcription on some (but not all) promoters in response to different adverse environmental conditions or stage of growth of cells. Morphological and protein analysis of several Salmonella typhimurium cultures from 40 year old agar stabs have isolated a few strains exhibiting characteristic s associated with rpoS mutations. We examined aged Salmonella typhimurium strains for rpoS sequence variability using Base Excision Sequence Scanning (BESS). Through T-Scan and G-Tracker technologies (Epicentre) of both the sense and anti-sense strands we are able to detect the location and identity of 100% of all mutations within the examined sequence. Preliminary data using only the BESS-T Scan has identified three rpoS mutants out of a population of 27 samples. This high mutation rate suggests that rpoS plays a key role in surviving the effects of long-term starvation.

Gasper, Bryan R., Sabrina Schwery, Jeff Koppelman and Todd Eckdahl. Biology Department, Missouri Western State College and Missouri Department of Conservation. MOLECULAR PHYLOGENETIC ANALYSIS OF MISSOURI SCULPINS. Molecular phylogenetic analysis is a beneficial technique for studying ecological questions, such as species distributions. The genus Cottus includes fish commonly called sculpins, which are morphologically similar leading to difficulties in species determination. The two species of sculpins (C. hypselurus and C. bairdi) used in this study have disputed distributions in Missouri. This study is a molecular phylogenetic analysis of Missouri populations of sculpins using the Polymerase Chain Reaction and Randomly Amplified Polymorphic DNA (RAPD) primers. The data allow comparisons within and between populations and suggest a reclassification of sculpins in Missouri at the species level.

Hernandez, Jerome and John Rushin. Department of Biology, Missouri Western State College. EFFECT OF TWO DIFFERENT BURN TREATMENTS ON THE VEGETATION OF SUCCESSIONAL PRAIRIE SITE AFTER SIX YEARS. Based on pretreatment comparisons of species overlap and index of commonness values, the three vegetation sampling transects used in this study were considered similar. Treatments consisted of a fall bum followed by a spring bum on one vegetation transact; two spring bums on another transect, and a control transect that remained unburned. Although index of commonness values show Andropogon scoparius to be the major species in all three transects before and after treatments, commonness results also show that the study area was undergoing natural succession with Helianthus tube rous and Solidago graminifolia increasing in all transects. Various other minor perturbations in commonness values were observed in some other species over the six-year study period. In addition, the native talls grass Sorghastrum nutans showed d ramatic increases in both burn treatments over the control. Lespedeza cuneata showed dramatic increases in spring/spring burn treatment over the control, however, no dramatic difference in Lespedeza cuneata was observed for the fall/spring burn treatment over the control. Support from the Missouri Department of Conservation

Jung, D.F., J.D. Mayfield, M.L. Jaynes, D.A. Starrett. Biology Department, Southeast Missouri State University. BIOCHEMISTRY OF AVOCADO FRUIT RIPENING. Avocados are an economically important agricultural commodity in many Southeastern and Southwestern states in the U.S. Avocado fruit have a limited shelf-life with roughly 50% of the fruit being lost before reaching the consumer due to uncontrolled softening and spoilage. The major shelf-life limiting factor is premature softening. Ripening is characterized by numerous changes in the fruit quality with softening being the key quality to the consumer. Thus, an understanding of the softening process may lead to better control of ripening and increased shelf-life. Softening is characterized by changes in cell wall structure in fruit. Numerous hydrolytic enzymes have been implicated in the process, though none appear to be the key players. We hypothesize that two carbohydrate degrading enzymes may play an important role in avocado trait softening. Avocado [alpha]- galactosidase and [beta]-galactosidase have previously been shown to solubilize pectin, an important structural component of primary cell walls in fruit tissue. The mechanism by which these enzymes may act and evidence for their role in pectin solubilization is described here. The cloning of genes for these enzymes is presented in an accompanying paper. This work was supported by a USDA-NRICGP Strengthening Award.

Knust, R. and N. Babrakai. Department of Biology, Central Missouri State University. GENOTOXICITY OF CELERY ROOT (Apium graveolens) ON ONION (Allium cepa) ROOT TIP MERISTEMS. A cytogenetic study of growing onion root tip cells (green and pearl), incubated in various dilutions (2.5%, 5%, 10%) of fleshly prepared aqueous extract of celery root, over controls was undertaken to explore its mutagenic effects. The results are summarized as follows; I. High concentrations of celery root extract lowered the mitotic index significantly over controls. II. A broad range of chromosomal mutations was observed, namely C-metaphases, anaphase bridges, sticky chromosomes, chromosome fragments, micronuclei, telophase arrests, and double nuclei, etc. Some tentative conclusions of this study are; I. Celery extract apparently interferes with microtubule assembly. II. The normal operating mechanisms during DNA replication and coiling into chromosomes are disrupted. III. It also causes DNA breakage and a collapse of the mitotic process.

Kudrna, C.L. and D.C. Ashley. Department of Biology, Missouri Western State College. A COMPARISON OF AERIAL INSECTS IN MARSH AND NATIVE GRASSLAND AT SQUAW CREEK NATIONAL WILDLIFE REFUGE. Squaw Creek National Wildlife Refuge consists of 7700 acres of unique habitat in northwest Missouri. Two major habitats on the refuge are marsh and native grassland. This project investigates the overlap in the invertebrate abundance and diversity within those two habitats. We are evaluating the biodiversity of the two habitats by malaise traps. These traps are modified flight-intercept traps and select for insects that fly through the habitat being sampled. We anticipate finding distinct assemblage of insects in each habitat, but because of their proximity, we also expect to see some overlap in diversity. The use of malaise traps to sample flying fauna over aquatic habitat is a novel approach to the study of invertebrate biodiversity. Our samples have all been collected and we are currently counting and identifying specimens . Two significant habitats at Squaw Creek National Wildlife Refuge are marsh and native grassland. With the two habitat in close proximity to one another the ecotone has a potential for species to be found in both areas. Sampling the fauna demonstrates not only the hatches but also visitors to these regions. Trapping with malaise traps is a new approach allowing common and incidental species to both be captured.

The flight pattern of invertebrates over these two habitats will tell the orders that are present and their abundance. The variation that are found in samples determine the habitat type of each species. This can then be applied to the ecological niche that each fills.

Kudrna, C.L. and C.D. Chevalier. Department of Biology, Missouri Western State College. PRELIMINARY BAT SURVEY OF OZARK CAVERNS, LAKE OF THE OZARKS STATE PARK, CAMDEN COUNTY. Bats and the caves they inhabit are part of a complex ecosystem. Bats roost in different areas geographically and within a given cave depending upon season and disturbance. Ozark Caverns is classified as a commercial cave and is operated by the Missouri Department of Natural Resources primarily for educational tours. Bats are mammals that display many unique characteristics such as powered flight and highly-developed sonar for navigation and hunting. Bats are important predators that control populations of many insect species. Missouri bats are nocturnal and are vulnerable to disruption during the day. Caves are natural roosting locations that offer protection from the outside environment. The roosting habits of bats vary: some bats roost in colonies, others are solitary roosters. We inventoried the bats that roost in Ozark Caverns: to determine number of species diversity, and roost site locations. The number of bats and species varied throughout the field season. Visitors to the cavern do not seem to disturb roosting bats or force them into closed sections of the cavern. Four bat species were documented to be in the cavern during this period: Eastern Pipistrelle (Pipistrellus subflavus), Big Brown Bat (Eptesicus fuscus), Little Brown Bat (Myotis lucifugus), and Gray Bat (Myotis grisescens).

The most abundant species was Eastern Pipistrelle (n=29; 34.5%), followed by little brown bat (n=20; 24%), big brown bat (n=15; 18%), and gray bat (n=8; 9.5%). We were unable to positively identify 12 bats (14%). The eastern pipistrelle, big brown bat and little brown bats are all common nationwide, but the gray bat is federally-listed as an Endangered Species. We believe that due to the location of the bats and management practices of the Missouri Department of Natural Resources, visitors to this cavern have negligible impact on the bats roosting within.

Linhart, Jessica, M. Struemph, J.L. Cooper, and M.F. Haskins. Biology Department, Rockhurst University. THE EFFECTIVENESS OF BACTERICIDAL AGENTS IN PURIFYING WATER. Several bactericidal agents were tested for their effectiveness in treating Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginose, Staphylococcus aureus, and Salmonella typhimurium. Vinyl paper clips were coated with bacteria by overnight incubation in nutrient broth. The paper clips were then dried, and exposed to one of the bactericidal agents for 1, 5, or 10 minute time period. Following neutralization in sterile water the paper clips were incubated overnight in nutrient broth, and examined for bacterial growth using turbidimetry determination (wavelength 600 run).

Maus, T.M., M. Amspoker. Department of Biology, Westminster College. AN ANALYSIS OF THE BENTHIC FRESHWATER DIATOM ASSEMBLAGES OF THE SIBUN RIVER, BELIZE, CENTRAL AMERICA. Representing the first analysis of freshwater diatoms from Belize, this research serves to study benthic freshwater diatoms, which are frequently used as a tool to assess conditions of inland waters. Collections of diatom assemblages were made from three subtrates (rock, sand, and macrophytes) in May 1998 at four locations along the Sibun River. Permanent slides were prepared and diatom species were identified and tabulated. 3600 diatoms were identified from 24 samples and separated into 42 taxa. Comparisons of the community composition were determined by the Information measure, redundancy index, and measures of similarity between different assemblages. The analyses suggest that all samples were characterized by a high species diversity, a high species richness and a high degree of evenness. There was no significant variation between the di atom assemblages on the different substrates at each sampling site. However, the headwater diatom flora differed significantly from the other three locations. Water chemistry analyses suggest that the headwaters are more oligotropic than downstream sites and may contribute to the unique characteristics. The high species diversity, high species richness and high degree of evenness suggest that the Sibun River is a healthy river.

Mayfield, J.D., D.F. Jung, J.L. Jaynes, D.A. Starrett. Biology Department, Southeast Missouri State University. UPDATE ON CLONING OF a-GALACTOSIDASE AND B-GALACTOSIDASE FROM RIPENING AVOCADO FRUIT. Premature softening is a significant factor in the short shelf-life of avocado fruit. In an accompanying paper, a detailed description of potential mechanisms of softening have been presented. Here we present results on our work to clone and antisense two cell wall hydrolase enzymes that may play a role in avocado fruit softening. [alpha]-and [beta]-galactosidase were cloned from avocado cDNA by PCR. Both clones are slightly more than 800 nucleotides in length and represent roughly 1/3 of the predicted full length coding sequences of the two clones. These clones were labeled and used to screen an avocado cDNA library. 500 more nucleotides of the [beta]-galactosidase gene have been cloned giving us sequence for roughly half the predicted length of the clone. Repeated screening of the library failed to yield any mor e sequence for the [alpha]-galactosidase gene. In a different approach to obtaining full length clones, PCR is being used to isolate clones directly from the cDNA library. PCR fragments have been isolated and are being cloned for sequencing. In a parallel project, both clones are being used to create antisense constructs which will be used in collaboration with another lab to transform and regenerate avocado. The hope is that softening will be inhibited or delayed in transgenic fruit derived from these plants. This work was supported by a USDA-NRICGP Strengthening Award.

Rodemann, J., S. Dunlap, M.E. Rodriquez and G. O'Connor, Biology Department, Rockhurst College. Bioassays of plant extracts and synthetic compounds have been conducted in previous year to determine their potential as feeding deterrents for insects that normally feed on stored grain products or live plants. The current research was a cooperative effort between students in the departments of Biology and Chemistry. Bioassays were also conducted using larvae of Tenebrio molitor in both choice tests and weight change tests. Bioassays were also conducted on Manduca sexta using weight change tests. The choice test consisted of the mealworms (40 per group) being given a choice between treated and untreated bran meal. Measures of feeding preferences were made. The weight tests consisted of individual hornworm larvae being offered hornworm food treated with extracts from live plants. Feeding was measured by the difference in initial food weight and food weight after exposure to the hornworm. Results suggested that low concentrations of some substances deterred feeding.

Rodriguez, M,, J. Buchanan and M.F. Haskins. Biology Department, Rockhurst University. DETERMINING THE MINIMUM NUMBER OF SEGMENTS REQUIRED TO MAINTAIN FICTIVE SWIMMING. The lamprey has been used as a modal system for vertebrate locomotion in many spiral cord studies. The lamprey was chosen because its spinal cord is simple in comparison to higher vertebrates. Previous research indicated rhythmic activity occurred with a minimum of four segments (Cohen, 1987). Our experiments, using an excitatory amino acid, quantified the regularity of rhythmic activity in order to establish a direct correlation between the bursting pattern and the number of segments. The study provided evidence that rhythmic activity does not occur in one segment of spinal cord but could be found in two segments.

Shugart, H.J. Department of Biological Sciences, Westminster College. ARACHNIDS IN A NOVEL, SULFERRICH CAVE: A CENSUS STUDY IN CUEVA DE VILLA LUZ, TABASCO, MEXICO. A study of arachnids in a novel, sulfurrich environment determined their taxonomy, morphology and behavior. Eleven generic groups of arachnids were identified from six families of spiders and two orders of non-spider arachnids. It was hypothesized that fewer arachnids would be found within the most toxic areas of the cave (defined as areas with high concentrations of [H.sub.2]S in the air, deposits of elemental sulfur or other acidic substrates and the presence of the highly acidic microbial colonies termed "snottites"). From a census of the arachnids, pH results of substrates and correlation of locations with gas concentrations it was determined that a larger number of arachnids from more families inhabited the more hospitable areas while fewer arachnids inhabited the toxic areas. Arachnids of the order Amblypygi and specifically family Theridiid ae were observed on or suspended within close proximity to every type of acidic substrate throughout every part of the cave. Members of the families Tetragnathidae, Amaurabiidae, Salticidae and Pisauridae and of the order Opiliones were observed almost exclusively in areas of the cave with low gas concentrations and on substrates with a measured pH of nearly neutral and thus inhabited a more limited spatial range within the cave.

Sutton, S.Y.V., M.M. Giffin, L.A. Bichler. Department of Natural Sciences, Stephens College. THE EFFECT OF ADDITIONAL PROCESSING OF WHOLE FRYERS ON THE LEVELS OF ENTEROBACTERIACIA IN THE GROCERY PRODUCT. This study examined the effect of further plant processing on the level of Enterobacteriaciae on marketed poultry products. Twenty-five whole fryers and 25 further processed (cut-up) fryers from two major poultry processors were purchased at a reputable Columbia, Missouri grocer. Samples were collected over a five-day, non-consecutive period. The prevalence of Enterobacteriaciae, with special emphasis on E. coli and Samonellae, was used to evaluate bacterial contamination. The whole carcass rinse method used to collect a bacterial culture from each sample. Total aerobic counts were acquired using peptone Tergitol glucuronide agar, which also allowed for the rapid identification of E. coli. The presence of Salmonellaie contamination was determined using biochemical tests. Results were analyzed using ANOVA and the significant effects will be presented.

Geography Section

Chilcutt, S.A., G.J. Cwick. Department of Geosciences, and Al Robertson, Department of Health and Leisure (retired), Southeast Missouri State University. COMPARISON OF THE 1982 AND 1997 EL NINO EVENTS AND THEIR EFFECTS ON RAINFALL IN CALIFORNIA. El Nino events (ENE) causes oceanic surface water temperature to rise, leading to an increase in precipitation in the Western Hemisphere. This study compares the ENE of 1997 and 1982 in terms of precipitation patterns in five localities in California. Four of the five cities are located on the coast, and one of the cites is located within the interior of the state. These cities range from 41[degrees]5N, 124[degrees]W to 32.5[degrees]N, 117[degrees]W. Preliminary results indicate that the 1982 ENE produced significantly greater monthly mean precipitation in some months than the 1997 ENE.

Chemistry/Geology Section

Anderson, A.L. and D.J. Wronkiewicz. Department of Geology/Geophysics, University of Missouri-Rolla. SOIL REMEDIATION THROUGH APATITE PHASE CRYSTALLIZATION. The mineral phase apatite possesses a number of favorable characteristics for use as an immobilizing medium for toxic and radioactive contaminants, making in-situ crystallization a possible suitable remediation technique. Apatite phase processing may serve as a suitable technique in environments that produce alkaline soils or in soils that have developed over a carbonate bedrock. The intent of this investigation is to examine the potential for converting labile species of soil contaminants into insoluble apatite crystalline phases. This study centers on a laboratory investigation into the environmental conditions applicable for immobilizing phosphate crystal precipitation. Batch tests will be processed at ambient room temperature with continuous agitation in a wrist-shaker. The reaction conditions include Pb, As, and Cd in the presence of Ca[CO.sub.2], [Ca.sub.2][P.sub.2][O.sub.7]Ca[F.sub.2] and apatite seed crystals. Solid phase characterization techniques include scanning electron microscopy and x-ray diffraction analysis. Leachate analysis will be conducted by atomic absorption of 0.45 [micro]m filtered solutions.

Cozort, E.A., R.D. Hagni. Department of Geology and Geophysics, University of Missouri-Rolla. FLUID INCLUSIONS, TEMPERATURES AND SALINITES OF FLUORITE FROM MATO PRETO, BRAZIL. The Mato Preto fluorite deposit, one of three major fluorspar producing deposits in the world, is located 70 miles North of Curitiba, Brazil. Other producing deposits are located in Okorusu, Nambia, and Amba Dongar, India. The Mato Preto is the most productive the three deposits, and it has produced as much as 100,000 tons of fluorspar concentrate per year. Three generations of fluorite at Mato Preto were distinguished based upon their colors. 1) early replacement zone, 2) later zone of crudely banded, vug-filling, mostly purple and green, and 3) youngest zone of vug-filling mostly clear fluorite. Fluid inclusions are two-phase inclusions and their sizes increase outward with time of deposition. Filling temperature measurements for inclusions range 114-166[degrees]C and salinites for the same inclusions range about 8-15%wt. NaCl. These results confirm earlier measurements by Santo (1988) and they are interpreted to indicate that the ore depositing fluid were derived from the alkaline igneous-carbonatite complex, with an admixture groundwater.

Guffey, C.J., I.W. El-Hussain, C.L. Sneed, P.N. Statler. Southeast Missouri State University. USING GEOPHYSICAL METHODS FOR LOCATING BURIED METALLIC OBJECTS IN SHALLOW SUBSURFACE. Magnetic survey and ground penetrating radar (GPR) are reliable method to detect anomalies in the shallow subsurface. Magnetic and GPR spatial detection resolution for highly conductive metallic objects were determined in this study with 2.54mm diameter piped buried at a depth of 15.24mm and separation of 60.96mm in two trenches in an area of fill material consisting of clay, cobble, and gravels containing iron oxides. The first trench contained a single 2.54mm diameter pipe l.83m in length and the second trench contained three 2.54mm pipes of l.83m foot lengths. One survey was conducted using a Bison model MMP-203 magnetometer. Four surveys conducted using a model 3102A SIR GPR system, with a frequency of 500 megahertz and a pulse width of 2 nanoseconds. Results obtained with GPR consisted of 2 strong reflection signatures that co rresponded with the pipe location. Results with the magnetometer consisted of a single strong magnetic signature corresponding with pipe location.

Kaps, S.E., D.J. Wronkiewicz. Department of Geology and Geophysics, University of Missouri-Rolla. MICROSCOPIC EXAMINATIONS OF GLASS-BONDED ZEOLITE SAMPLES FOR THE INCORPORATION OF RADIOACTIVE WASTE. A synthetic mineral (zeolite A) is currently under investigation for the contaminant and disposal of radioactive waste. Zeolite A is being utilized because it has a large open structure and the ability to incorporate a large amount of radioactive waste, including salt wastes with high chlorine contents. Samples were doped with surrogate radionuclide elements (e.g., [Ce.sub.4+] for [Pu.sub.4+]) and stable isotope equivalents of radionuclides commonly found in radioactive waste streams. The zeolite A was then bonded with glass by hot isostatic pressing to form glass-bonded zeolite samples. Investigations of these samples were conducted for determining microstructural aspects that may affect their durability. Microstructures were revealed using transmitted light, scanning electron microscopy, and cathode luminescenc e to identify phase compositions, their interrelationship, and stability. Some compositional and structural aspects of the glass-bonded zeolite samples were found to be altered during hot isostatic pressing. Deformation of the samples was noted in the form of altered phases, migration of elements in the waste form, and microfractures. The zeolite A phase was found to be converted into a feldapathoid due to temperature increases during hot isostatic pressing. Following this conversion, the surrogate radionuclide elements accumulated into a band between larger glass and feldapathoid phases. Small microfractures were present within the samples, possibly due to the release of pressure following hot isostatic pressing. By examining microscopic features, waste containment products can be investigated with respect to what further problems may exist when dealing with contaminant of radioactive waste streams. Supported by Argonne National Laboratory.

Kirkwood, S.Y., J.M. Holbrook. Department of Geosciences, Southeast Missouri State University and W.J. Autin. SUNY College at Brockport. SIGNIFICANCE OF SOIL STRATIGRAPHY ON LIQUEFACTION POTENTIAL. This project tests the correlation between soil stratigraphy and sand blow distribution of Pemiscot County, Missouri. Various lithologies exhibiting sand blows were sampled. Sites corresponding to the same lithologies exhibiting no sand blows were also sampled for comparison. A single core was taken at each site and sampled at 10 cm intervals using the Dutch auger method. Over 25 cores averaging 2 m depths were studied throughout the county. A TM Band 4 image delineating sandy areas was combined with the Pemiscot County Soil Survey and field data to create a sand blow distribution map. The sand blow distribution map compares favorably to unpublished Mississippi River meander and flood plain maps that have been verified by auger data. Locations of buried sand bars and mud veneer thickness are considered major factor s controlling sand blow distribution in this area and are significant considerations for liquefaction potential maps.

Morris, E.J. and F. Oboh-Ikuenobe. Department of Geology and Geophysics, University of Missouri-Rolla. SEDIMENTOLOGY PALYNOLOGY, AND SEA LEVEL CHANGES FLUCTUATIONS RECORDED BY TWO PENNSYLVANIAN CORES FROM NORTHWESTERN MISSOURI. Two cores from Buchanan and Andrew Counties in the Forest City Basin, northwestern Missouri contain approximately 1200 feet of sedimentary rocks deposited during the Pennsylvanian, a period characterized by many rapid fluctuations in sea level. The cores were logged from the Excello formation in the Upper Desmoinesia Series to the Iatan formation at the top of the Missourian Series. Lithofacies were identified from rock composition, grain size, color, thickness, sedimentary structures, and fossils. Petrographic thin sections were taken from various rock types and the results were used to complement the visual descriptions. Limestones are the dominant lithofacies, but silciclasic rocks and coal beds are also present. The preliminary paynological investigation of dispersed organic matter (palynodebris), spores and pollen from organic rich lithofacies provided additional information on the depositional environments. The two cores were correlated on the basis of the sedimentologic and palynologic results. Several formations are characterized by facies changes. This study also examined the possible influences of sea level fluctuations on the sedimentary rocks, and it appears that coal beds are correlative with eustatic sea level falls. Supported by University of Missouri-Rolla Opportunities for Undergraduate Research Experience.

Nelson, Lizzie, Sabrina Schwerty, and Todd Eckdahl. Department of Biology, Missouri Western State College. A PHYLOGEOGRAPHIC ANALYSIS OF NATURAL POPULATIONS OF SCULPIN FISHES. In order to estimate phylogenetic relationships between populations of Missouri sculpins (C. bairdi and C. hypselurus), samples of these fish were obtained from five naturally occuring southern Missouri watersheds: Meramec River, Little Black River, Pearson Creek, Niangua River and Clear Creek. DNA was isolated from a total of fifty fish, ten from each site. Mitochondrial DNA sequences were amplified by utilizing the polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Using restriction enzyme digestion, differences between the samples were revealed as restriction fragment length polymorphisms (RFLP). This aims at correctly classifying the fish for proper management of sculpin populations.

Paarlberg, Robin, Shauna Oppert and Nell Anderson. Department of Geology and Geophysics, University of Missouri-Rolla. SHALLOW FAULT LOCATION USING GROUND-PENETRATING RADAR TN SOUTHEAST MISSOURI. The Department of Geology and Geophysics at the University of Missouri-Rolla (UMR) and the Missouri Department of Natural Resources (MODNR) conducted a ground-penetrating radar (GPR) survey near Crowley's Ridge in southeast Missouri during the summer of 1998. The objective of this survey was to determine the usefulness of GPR in locating faulted areas and to identify the conditions that favor effective application of GPR. Several conclusions were made on the applications of GPR and the conditions in which GPR proves to be most useful after data acquisition, processing, and interpretation. GPR can be used to locate shallow, recent faults in southeast Missouri overlain by a thin veneer of soil and debris. GPR profiles can show not only complexly faulted horizons, but also the resultant changes in facies. The limitation s of GPR are the presence of debris or obstacles on the site and the litology, grain size, porosity, and saturation of facies are variables which influence the signature of GPR data.

Peters, C., V. Kurian, R.H. Erickson. Division of Science, Truman State University, Knox College. SYNTHESIS OF AMINOALKOXYCHROMONES. HIGHLY SELECTIVE LIGANDS FOR THE SIGMA RECEPTOR. The sigma receptor has been postulated to be involved in a number of biological events. The receptor has been reported to play a role in schizophrenia, cocaine toxicity, depression and even in certain inflammatory processes. However many of these studies have been done with compounds that are not highly selective for the sigma receptor vs. other receptor sites. Therefore, it is often unclear whether these biological effects are due to interaction with the sigma receptor or some other site. In previous work, we identified a series of aminoalkoxychromones as ligands for the sigma receptor that were found to be highly selective when put through a screen of 35 different receptor systems. The structure-activity relationships developed in the previous study identified structural features that, when modified, should lead to more potent co mpounds. We report here the synthesis of this second generation of sigma receptor ligands.

Plettner, J.R and B.S. Ross. Department of Chemistry Cottey College. ISOLATION AND ANALYSIS OF HOPANE BIOMARKERS. Hopane biomarkers in crude oil deposits result from bacterial degradation of organic material. The presence and modification of specific biomarkers in oil samples are often indicative of the source, and age, of the crude oil reservoir. A common aging process for the hopane biomarker involves microbial demethylation which is thought to proceed through an oxidative pathway. We are currently investigating the chemical oxidation of hopane model systems with chromyl chloride and developing methodology for GC/MS analysis of the oxidized products. As an initial step in our studies, it was necessary to enrich the hopane in the Bonny Light Crude Oil sample. This was achieved through a four step process involving (1) initial treatment with florisil to remove darkly colored material, (2) heating in vacuo to remove volatile constituents, (3) treatment with 5A sieves to remove n-alkanes, and (4) final passage through an alumina column to remove aromatics. Partially supported by NSF/DUE-9851169.

Sneed, C.L., J.M. Holbrook, G.J. Cwick. Department of Geosciences, Southeast Missouri State University and W.J. Autin SUNY College at Brockport. LAKE CO. UPLIFT: TECTONICALLY INDUCED MEANDER SHIFTS ON THE MISSISSIPPI RIVER. This study evaluates neotectonic influence on meander patterns in the Lake Co. Uplift (LCU), a 20 km x 30 km rectangular area between New Madrid, MO and Reelfoot Lake, TN. Sediment core and elevation data delineate paleomeander configurations, while age sequences indicate Holocene river migration patterns. Meanders stranded on terraces, extreme meander belt migration, and changes in loop orientation are due to neotectonic uplift. Holocene uplift (approx. 25m) triggered shifts in the meander belt from west of LCU to east through Reelfoot Lake. These progressive uplifts caused the river to detour around the structural apex of the LCU as evidenced by a change in meander orientation from an E-W to an anomalous NS trend concurrently river flow shifted from N-S to E-W. Normal meander trend and flow direction were re-established south of the LCU.

Thompson, J.L. and N.H. Tibbs. Department of Geosciences, Southeast Missouri State University. ASSESSMENT OF THE CAPE GIRARDEAU MUNICIPAL LANDFILL: COMPLIANCE WITH EPA REGULATIONS. The Cape Girardeau Municipal Landfill was studied to determine compliance with EPA 40 CFR Part 258 (regulations for solid waste landfills). The landfill was examined to see if it meets closure criteria and post-closure care requirements. The landfill was also examined for proper final cover material, ground water monitoring system, appropriate leachate collection system, run-on/run-off control systems and methane monitoring and venting. Testing of surface water for common water pollution constituents was also conducted. Geology of the site was studied (type of soil, underlying sediments) for probability of leachate. The site was found to not have a ground water monitoring system, or a leachate collection system. Both had been removed with the approval of the Missouri Department of Natural Resources. Missouri Solid Waste Management Law was compared with requirements for compliance with EPA 40 CFR Part 258 to check for inconsistencies since the Missouri DNR does virtually all monitoring activities for the landfill.

Winterhalter, P.S., D.M. Grey and J.D. Bucksath. Department of Chemistry, Colombia College and Analytical Bio-Chemistry (ABC) Laboratories. LABORATORY ETHICS AND REGULATIONS CONCERNING DOCUMENTATION. This study researches the importance of regulatory compliance and ethics related to documentation of a given study. Reference materials and regulatory commissions were used in clarifying the importance and the details required for efficiency. The Good Laboratory Practice (GLP), the Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP), and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) became the center of the research supporting a strong emphasis on documentation and the drastic effect it can have on a study. Misspelled words, punctuation, and decimal placement are just a few ways studies have been effected. The worst case of documentation is forgetting to write a step in the process, if you don't write it down it just didn't happen.

Social/Behavioral Sciences

Bradley, J., G. Farmer, B. Bohness, H. Droste, P. Adams. Division of Social Science, Truman State University. The purpose of this research is to determine if the weight given to various job characteristics varies as a function of work experience. Surveys were mailed to graduating seniors at Truman State University and to Truman State University Alumni from the classes of 1997, 1996, 1993, 1988 and 1983. Participants were asked to rate the importance, on a scale of 4 to 7, of job characteristics such as salary, security, accommodations to family life, etc. This information will be increasingly valuable to businesses as they compete for a decreasing pool of workers. Preliminary findings will be discussed.

Campione, N.M., N. Heiblum, and C.M. Borduin, University of Missouri-Columbia. DIFFERENCES IN PARENTS' ATTRIBUTIONS TOWARD VIOLENT AND NONVIOLENT ADOLESCNET OFFEDING. Parents' attributions (i.e., external, child-focused dispositional) toward adolescents who have been arrested for violent and nonviolent crimes will be examined. Participants will include 150 juvenile offenders (12-17 years of age), divided into 2 equal-sized groups (i.e., 75 mothers of violent offenders and 75 mothers of nonviolent offenders) and matched on pertinent demographic characteristics, including parent and adolescent age, socio-economic status, and race. Mothers of violent and nonviolent juvenile offenders will complete the Parental Locus of Control Scale (PLOC) and the Parental Attributions Questionnaire (PAQ) in order to assess their external attributions and child-focused dispositional attributions, respectively. A one-way (group: violent offenders vs. nonviolent offenders) multivariate analysis of variance (MANOVA) will be perfor med on the measures of parental external attributions (i.e., PLOC) and parental child-focused dispositional attributions (i.e. PAQ). It is expected that mothers of violent offenders will be more likely to report both external attributions and youth-focused dispositional attributions for their youth's misbehavior than mothers of nonviolent offenders.

Gerber, A.J. and J.R. Crooks. Division of Human Studies, Iowa Wesleyan College. CORRELATES OF GIFTEDNESS IN WOMEN ATTENDING A SMALL LIBERAL ARTS COLLEGE. This study documented risk factors among gifted college women as defined by her receiving of an excellence scholarship in academics, art, or music. Data was obtained from students attending Iowa Wesleyan College, a small private liberal arts college in southeastern Iowa. Substance abuse, driving habits, sexual histories, and psychological profiles were compared between students receiving the scholarships and those not receiving scholarships. Women classified as gifted were more likely to report frequent abuse of alcohol and other substances, numerous driving violations, a history of depressed behavior, and arrest records. These activities were almost exclusively related to the students high school years. Our study indicates the need to identify high risk gifted students during the high school years to prevent an elevated risk of injury, disease, or death re sulting from automobile accidents, substance abuse, and depression.

Kaspar, D.J. and J.R. Crooks. Division of Science. Iowa Wesleyan College. ANALYSIS OF ATTITUDES OF CONTINUING EDUCATION STUDENTS IN RELATION TO THE RESPONSIBLE SOCIAL INVOLVEMENT REQUIREMENT FOR GRADUATION. Responsible Social Involvement is a service learning project all students must complete to graduate at Iowa Wesleyan College, a small private liberal arts college in southeastern Iowa. The project requires 160 hours of service, a written paper reflecting on the experience, an oral presentation to a faculty panel, and the student receives six credit hours. Our study analyzes the effect on recruitment, retention, and degree completion of students of this degree requirement. We analyzed records of individuals who have 120+ credit hours that have not graduated and surveyed individuals in Session # 3 of the night trimester schedule. We have documented a number of individuals who have failed to complete their degree because of this requirement. We have also found a significantly large number of nontraditional s tudents who resent this requirement and believe it more appropriate for traditional age students. Others would find the requirement much more appealing if it could be associated with one's major. The study indicates a lack of appeal to volunteer again in the future, little to no added value to their life, and a negative feeling toward the institution. Our study indicates that making the service learning project related to the major would improve these areas to our nontraditional student body.

Murphy, S.J. and J.R. Crooks. Division of Human Studies, Iowa Wesleyan College. ANALYSIS OF COMPENSATION PACKAGE FOR POLICE OFFICERS AND CIVILIAN EMPLOYEES OF THE MOUNT PLEASANT POLICE DEPARTMENT. The Mount Pleasant Police Department is seeking comparable compensation in form of wages and overtime pay. The proposal is based on surveys regarding overtime pay and longevity plans to cities of similar population, agency size, and proximity to Mount Pleasant. Other information was obtained from the Iowa Uniform Crimes Report and the Iowa Department of Public Safety. The results indicate that the Mount Pleasant Police department has poor incentives for attracting long-term employment with increased probability of turnovers, leading to a loss of trained and experienced officers and civilian employees. Results indicate that the civilian pay and longevity plans were at the very bottom of the survey. All other departments in survey have a Union or Bargaining Unit in place. Our study indicates for the Mount Pleasant Po lice Department to achieve comparable compensation will require a 9.9 per cent increase. Our study also indicates that the Mount Pleasant Police Department should consider a Union or Collective bargaining Unit.

Ringwald, Amy, Angela Keller, Michael Miller, Samantha Wilson, Janine Nall, Mandy Latier. Truman State University. The purpose of our research is to examine sex differences in contrapower sexual harassment of professors by their students. Furthermore, we are gathering data on students' behaviors in an effort to determine if female faculty members are treated with less respect by students than male faculty members. Two states were randomly selected from each of nine geographic regions and from these states, public universities with web sites and professor email directories were selected. A survey was sent out via e-mail to 50 male professors and 50 female professors. Preliminary findings will be presented.

Tadin, D., K.F. Palmer, and T.B. Jaeger. Departments of Physics and Psychology, Westminster College. ANALYSIS OF SUBJECTIVE MATCHING FOR COLOR BRIGHTNESS IN RELATIONSHIP TO THE STANDARD LUMINOSITY CURVE. This study is the first in a series of experiments to analyze the relationship between physical and psychological properties in light display on a CRT. This experiment involved just the light spectrum produced when the electron beam strikes one of the 3 types of phosphors found in a typical "RGB" monitor. Eighteen undergraduates matched the brightness of a test colored rectangle to a standard rectangle on a CRT. The standard rectangle emitted the spectrum produced by the red phosphor at 3 intensity levels; the test rectangle had the spectrum of either the red, green, or blue phosphor whose peak intensities lie at the wavelengths 627, 531, and 453 nm, respectively. Luminosity measurements were obtained by Ocean Optics S2000 fiber optic spectrometer using OOJ.Base 1.0 control and acquisition software. A one-sa mple t-test was used to compare luminosity measurements with the data obtained from participants. The results showed that green, when compared to red, required intensity level significantly smaller (p[less than]0.05) than the intensity of the red in order to appear equal in brightness with the red. The red and blue required the same intensity in order to appear of equal brightness to the participants (p[less than]0.05). The results indicate that the human eye is most sensitive to the green light, with about equal sensitivity to red and blue, agreeing with previous studies.