Following is a list of the LaSpace Undergraduate Research Assistantship participants. Projects are grouped according to the award year. The Pilot year was the 2000-2001 academic year. The faculty-student research teams are required to submit a final technical report at the completion of the project. These reports are on file in the LaSPACE office. The student research experience can also lead to student contributions to journal publications as listed in this bibliography. Each of the funded projects in the following list has a symbol that designates its related NASA Strategic Enterprise. These NASA Strategic Enterprises symbols are as detailed in the following key.

(1) Faculty Mentor: J. Jim Zhu, Division of Engineering Research, Louisiana State University and D. E. Nikitopoulos, Mechanical Engineering Department, Louisiana State University. Dr. Zhu left the university and Dr. Nikitopoulos assumed the project. Research Title: Feasibility Study of Low Aspect Ratio Lifting Body Airframe Student(s): David Cusimano, Mechanical Engineering Department, Louisiana State University and Cameron May, Mechanical Engineering Department, Louisiana State University, graduated before the PI change was completed and were replaced by Joseph Rials and Matthew Dowden. Abstract:   This project supports NASA's Aerospace Enterprise goals with a vision on a future personal transportation vehicle - - flying automobile or roadable aircraft, collectively called aeromobile. To accommodate both driving and flying modes, it is highly desirable for the aeromobile to employ low-aspect-ratio (LAR) wings, or even wingless lifting body airframes. However, LAR and lifting body airframes are known to be aerodynamically inefficient. The goal of this research is to study the feasibility of LAR and lifting body airframe for the particular vehicle configuration of an aeromobile, and to examine existing or innovative techniques that would enable the desired aeromobile airframes. Basic approach include literature search, CFD analysis and wind tunnel tests of techniques for improving lift-to-drag ratio, reducing induced drag and angle-of-attack of LAR and lifting body airframes. The student investigators will assist the PI in literature search, data collection, computer drafting, CFD analysis and preparation of technical reports. The results will be presented at the student investigators' senior engineering design project presentation, and at the student paper competition of the annual regional AIAA conference. these results will form a basis for future proposals on the aeromobile R & D.   (2) Faculty Mentor: Mark H. Slovak, Physics and Astronomy, Louisiana State University Research Title: Rotation Curves of Normal and Barred Spiral Galaxies Student(s): Candice Giovingo, Physics and Astronomy, Louisiana State University. This student left school and dropped out of the program. She was replaced by Nichole Staab. Abstract:   The rotation curves of high inclination luminous spiral galaxies will be derived and used to model the mass distribution in these galaxies. Archival coude spectra of a sample of spiral galaxies (normal and barred) will be reanalyzed to derive their rotation velocity curves (radial velocity as a function of galactocentric distance). (Depending on the availability of instrumentation, the HRPO 0.5cm telescope will be used to obtain spatially resolved spectra of Saturn's rings and one bright high inclination spiral galaxy. These spectra will be used to derive the rotation curves of Saturn's rings and the galaxy.)   (3) Faculty Mentor: Paul L. Fisher, Physics Department, University of Louisiana at Monroe Research Title: Solar Radio Observations Student(s): Gregory J. Williams, Physics Department, University of Louisiana at Monroe Abstract:   New facilities at ULM will provide opportunities for students to measure radio emission from the Sun. Analyzing the spectrum, intensity, and variation of this emission over time will allow students to model the emission mechanism and determine physical conditions in the solar atmosphere. Such observations are a key to the NASA space science strategic enterprise of understanding the flare mechanism in the Sun and other stars.   (4) Faculty Mentor: Natalia Zotov, Mathematics and Statistics, Louisiana Tech University Research Title: Optical Monitoring of Selected BL Lacs and Low-Mass X-Ray Binary Systems Student(s): Amanda Carpenter, Physics Department, Louisiana Tech University and Bond Hutchinson, Physics Department, Louisiana Tech University Abstract:   This is a proposal for undergraduate students to use the National Undergraduate Research Observatory at Flagstaff, Arizona. They will observe BL Lacs and low-mass X-ray binaries, which are two of the classes suggested by AAVSO. In preparation, they will need a reading course in astrophysics, learn to use IRAF, and prepare the charts for an observing run. Afterwards, they will analyze the data, and prepare and present reports.

(1) Faculty Mentor: Michael J. McShane, Biomedical Engineering, Louisiana Tech University Research Title: Nanofabricated Optical Sensors for Biochemical Monitoring in Microgravitated Cell Cultures Student(s): Kyle Guice, Biomedical Engineering Department, Louisiana Tech University Abstract:   Cell and tissue growth in microgravitational environments provides an important area for space research and potential space commerce. Effects of microgravity on cells in a cultured environment include changes in organization and membrane structure of the cells. Future study of these effects is limited by the repeatability of the experiments, and this will depend upon the size and stability of devices used to monitor and control environmental variables such as nutrient concentration, PH, etc. Novel technologies need to be developed to monitor the environment for cell growth and various effects on cell and tissue structure. specialized fluorescent sensors, in the form of nanoparticles or films embedded in the culture scaffolds, may allow specific biochemical changes to be monitored within cell structures. The development of these micro/nanoscale sensors would enable further study of cell growth in space. The team will investigate optical micro/nanosensors to be used in monitoring of cell growth in cultured microgravitational environments. Specifically, the sensors will be layered microstructures capable of monitoring oxygen, glucose and lactate. During this year-long project, sensors for each of these analytes will be designed and fabricated using self-assembly and photopatterning processes. Sensor operation will be validated in vitro to determine measurement accuracy, precision, and sensor specificity as well as biocompatibility. Future work will focus on adaptation of the sensors and associated instrumentation for use with typical culture vessels. Results of the work will be presented at Biomedical Engineering research seminars, a bio-micro-sensors workshop, and a professional society meeting.   (2) Faculty Mentor: Michael J. McShane, Biomedical Engineering, Louisiana Tech University, Charles F. Cicciarella, Health and Physical Education Department, Louisiana Tech University, and Louis E. Roemer, Electrical Engineering Department, Louisiana Tech University Research Title: Automatic Health Monitoring of Humans in Hot/Humid Environments Student(s): Rebekah D. Cobb, Biology Department, Louisiana Tech University and Jennifer J. Canada, Computer Science Department, Louisiana Tech University Abstract:   Specialized medical monitoring devices utilize microsensors, many of which contain integrated electronics. Astronauts utilize many such devices to monitor body functions, to evaluate stress, and to protect health. They young research associates will be introduced to microcomputer programming, good practice in electrode and sensor use, and responsibilities in working with animals and humans. A problem, related to health monitoring of astronauts, occurs for earth science investigators exploring lava tubes and caves. High humidity and temperatures reduce the ability of investigators to function well in cave environments. Cooling gel-suits allow limited time in this restrictive environment. Available monitoring devices to not provide the portability, reprogrammability, lifetime and environmental ruggedness needed by those who study lava caves. The team will investigate, design, and program body sensors to be used in cave exploration. The devices will monitor body parameters such as temperature and heart rate, presenting alarms when save ranges are exceeded.   (3) Faculty Mentor: Connie Walton, Science and Technology College, Grambling State University Research Title: Synthesis and characterization of Polymides that exhibit Nonlinear Optic Behavior Student(s): Janae Andrese Wills, Science and Technology College, Grambling State University Abstract:   This project focuses on the synthesis of a NLO polyimide that has low alignment decay and good thermal stability. A NLO active fluorene monomer has previously been synthesized on the campus of Grambling State University. The structure of this monomer will be modified in an effort to influence the magnitude of the nonlinearity. This will be done by increasing the donating capability of the amino group found in the structure of the monomer. The thermal stability of the monomers will be compared. Polyimides will be made by reacting dianhydrides with the fluorene monomers. The properties of all compounds made will be characterized using standard organic techniques.   (4) Faculty Mentor: Guoqiang Li, Mechanical Engineering Department, Louisiana State University and Su-Seng Pang, Mechanical Engineering Department, Louisiana State University Research Title: Development of Innovative Joining Technique for Advanced Composite Truss Structures Student(s): Dishili S. Davis, Civil Engineering Department, Louisiana State University and Carlos C. Stewart, Chemical Engineering Department, Louisiana State University Abstract:   The 21st century mandates the research focus of NASA's Strategic Enterprise Goal for a new generation of safe, reliable, lightweight, and less expensive composite truss structures, which are vital to future OSS, OES, and HEDS missions and experiments. The last decade has witnessed a growth in research of advanced composite truss structures in launch vehicles and spacecraft components. The preliminary demonstrative studies conducted by NASA and various research institutions have shown that advanced composite truss structures are very effective in enhancing the buckling resistance. However, this advantage cannot be achieved without innovative joining techniques. The scientific objective of this proposed one-year project is to develop a hybrid joining technique to form high buckling strength composite truss structures; The human resource objective is to increase, in quantity and quality, Louisiana's production of aerospace related engineering graduates. To this end, a hybrid joining technique using heat-activated coupling and tapered joining will be investigated. The techniques will be validated through coupon and truss structure tests. Finite element analysis will be conducted to investigate the structural behavior under various loading. The initial outcomes of this project will add further impetus towards advancement of composite science & technology in aerospace industries and greatly benefit the NASA missions and experiments. Two Africa-American undergraduate students (one female) will directly participate in the research activities. They will prepare raw materials, fabricate specimens, run experiments, conduct finite element analysis, and present research results in technical conferences. This will serve to educate future minority scientists and engineers related to aerospace industries.   (5) Faculty Mentor: Dimitris E. Nikitopoulos, Mechanical Engineering Department, Louisiana State University Research Title: Feasibility Study of Low Aspect Ratio, Lifting Body Airframe for Roadable Aircraft Student(s): Matthew Dowden, Mechanical Engineering Department, Louisiana State University and Joseph Rials, Mechanical Engineering Department, Louisiana State University Abstract:   The project supports NASA's Aerospace Enterprise goals with a vision on a future personal transportation vehicle - flying automobile or roadable aircraft, collectively called aerokiniton. To accommodate both driving and flying modes, it is highly desirable for the aerokiniton to employ low-aspect-ratio (LAR) wings, or even wingless lifting body airframes. However, LAR and lifting body airframes are known to be aerodynamically inefficient. The goal of this research is to study the feasibility of LAR and lifting body airframe for the particular vehicle configuration of an aerokiniton, and to examine existing or innovative techniques that would enable the desired aerokiniton airframes. The basic approach includes a literature search, CFD analysis and wind tunnel tests of techniques for improving lifting-to-drag ratio, reducing induced drag and angle-of-attack or LAR and lifting body airframes. The student investigators will work with the PI with the literature search, data collection, computer drafting, CFD analysis and preparation of technical reports. The results will be presented during one of the AIAA regional student conferences. These results will form the basis for the design and construction of a pilot scale aerokiniton model, which will be accomplished by a team of undergraduate students through the Mechanical Engineering Senior Mechanical Design two-semester course sequence (ME4232).   (6) Faculty Mentor: Arthur Sterling, Chemical Engineering Department, Louisiana State University Research Title: Material Balance Closure in a Pilot-Scale Oxidizer Student(s): Jay W. Stephenson, Chemical Engineering Department, Louisiana State University and Ryan Kimmett, Chemical Engineering Department, Louisiana State University Abstract:   In the near future, we intend to use an existing pilot-scale oxidizer to produce gas and solid samples of combustion products for health-effect studies. This will require the ability to reproduce and document the oxidizing conditions used for sample production. An important component will be the ability to document material balance closure over the oxidizing system. The pilot-scale oxidizer contains extensive instrumentation for the collection of data on temperature, pressure, flow, and chemical composition. At the present time, however, we are unable to demonstrate material balance closure on the process. It is proposed to systematically test and calibrate each of the primary sensors, to verify each of the data processing steps, and to critically review each of the assumptions underlying the material balance procedure. The goal is to obtain overall and component material balance closures within 2 percent. This project will give the student research assistants pilot-scale system experience rarely available to undergraduate students. They will be involved with various types of thermal sensors, flow meters, pressure transmitters, continuous gas analyzers, and data acquisition and analysis programs. The objective to achieve material balance closure will present them the challenge to deal with a complex, transient system and to understand fully how each of its components function individually and as part of the complete system. The project will also give the student research assistants experience in attacking problems from a tech approach, an increasingly important component of undergraduate engineering education.   (7) Faculty Mentor: Donald T. Haynie, Biomedical Engineering and Physics Departments, Louisiana Tech University and Yuri M. Lvov, Institute for Micromanufacturing, Louisiana Tech University Research Title: Nanofabrication of Artificial Red Blood Cells Student(s): Anne Hannibal, Biomedical Engineering Department, Louisiana Tech University and Joshua R. Erskin, Biomedical Engineering Department, Louisiana Tech University Abstract:   This student research project complements a highly-interdisciplinary initiative on the development of artificial red blood cells for use in a blood substitute for humans. The principal investigators have appointments in Biomedical Engineering, Physics, and the Institute for Micromanufacturing (IfM) at Louisiana Tech University. The research has both basic and applied aspects and is being carried out in laboratories in the IfM, a well-equipped and ultra-modern facility at Tech. Blood substitutes are of interest to blood banks, hospitals, emergency medical services, the military, NASA, developing nations, and industrialists1. Substitutes will be useful not only for transfusion during surgery or in military situations, but possibly also in the treatment of cancer. There is little doubt that the availability of efficacious and non-toxic substitutes will promote human habitation of space. The current level of development of substitutes, however, is well below what researchers believe is possible in principle and what consumers hope for. This augers well for further commercialization of technological developments. Indeed, blood substitutes are currently worth an estimated $10 billion per year. The student researchers will work closely with existing graduate students to develop and apply cutting-edge capabilities in protein engineering and encapsulation of functional biopolymers in nano-organized microcapsules. These have a diameter of 0.15 mm - slightly smaller than human red blood cells - and can be "loaded" with different types of polymer, notably enzymes or specific transport proteins like hemoglobin. The structure, charge properties, and pH-sensitivity of the capsule surface can be altered with practically limitless variety by protein engineering. 1Winslow, R. M., Vandegriff, K. D., and Intaglietta, M. eds. Advances in Blood Substitutes: Industrial Opportunities and Medical Challenges (Boston: Birkhäuser, 1997).   (8) Faculty Mentor: Danny Hubbard, Chemistry Department, Grambling State University Research Title: Preparation and Properties of Aromatic Polyamides from 2, 2' -Bis (p-aminophenoxy) biphenyl and Aromatic Diester/Diacids Student(s): Jerrel G. Gibson, Chemistry Department, Grambling State University Abstract:   This research investigation focuses on the preparation and properties of polyamides. Reaction of dianhydrides (e.g. 3,3', 4,4' - benzophenone tetracarboxylic dianhydride and Bicyclo [2.2.2] oct-7-ene-2,3,5,6-tetracarboxylic dianhydride) with diamine based monomer produces polyamide macromolecular compounds that have high glass transition temperatures. These polyamides compounds are also expected to be useful in high temperature applications (e.g., including matrix composite components and resin transfer mold processing). The polyamides of interest in this study are proposed to exhibit significant advantages in the area of lowered energy requirements during the mold process of these polymers. In addition, thermal characterization studies should show the properties of these polymers to be significantly improved in the area of overall weight loss and increased thermal oxidative stability in comparison to similar chemical systems.   (9) Faculty Mentor: H. Lee Sawyer, Physics Department, Louisiana Tech University Research Title: Monitoring of Low Mass X-ray Binary Systems and Gamma-ray Loud BL Lacs Student(s): Kiernan Bond Hutchinson, Mathematics / Physics Department, Louisiana Tech University and Mark B. Shaw, Physics Department, Louisiana Tech University Abstract:   LURA Participants Assistantships would provide continued support for two students, with the opportunity to use the National Undergraduate Research Observatory at Flagstaff, Arizona, to observe two classes of objects of current research interest: low-mass x-ray binaries and gamma-ray loud BL Lacs. Both classes of objects are highly but erratically variable, and so are very suitable for an undergraduate monitoring program. The students would also analyze their data, using the package IRAF developed for professional astronomers, present their results at professional meetings, and participate in the preparation of the next student generation to continue their work. They would conclude their research experience by assisting in the preparation of the final report.   (10) Faculty Mentor: Geoffrey Clayton, Physics and Astronomy Department, Louisiana State University Research Title: The Ever Changing Shell of UW Cen Student(s): Yara J. Beshara, Physics and Astronomy Department, Louisiana State University Abstract:   We propose to analyze a large number of images of the unique reflection nebula surrounding the R Coronae Borealis Star, UW Cen. This nebula changes its appearance significantly on timescales of a year or less as different parts are illuminated by light from the central star modulated by shifting thick dust clouds near its surface. These dust clouds form and dissipate at irregular intervals causing the well-known declines in the R Coronae Borealis star lightcurve. In this way, the central star acts like a lighthouse shining through holes in the dust clouds and lighting up different portions of the nebula. Our analysis of the images will enable us to: 1) use the light echo to calculate an accurate distance to UW Cen, 2) investigate the morphology of the nebula in detail to study whether this object is related to planetary nebulae and the final helium shell flash stars and 3) use the illumination of the nebula to discern the pattern of new circumstellar dust clouds. Understanding the RCB stars is a key test for any theory which aims to explain hydrogen deficiency in post-Asymptotic Giant Branch stars.   (11) Faculty Mentor: Edward Graham, Chemistry and Physics Department, Northwestern State University of Louisiana Research Title: Energy Transfer Studies Using Opto-Acoustic Spectroscopy Student(s): Russell E. Greenlee, Chemistry and Physics Department, Northwestern State University of Louisiana Abstract:   In optoacoustic spectroscopy, the pressure of an absorbing gas is measured while exposing the gas to intensity-modulated radiation. A change in pressure occurs as some of the energy of the absorbing molecule relaxes into the translational degrees of freedom. By measurement of the time lag between the periodic pressure signal and the pulsed radiation, the rate of this relaxation can be determined. Alternatively, the amplitude of the pressure signal as a function of the pulsation rate for the incoming radiation can be used to determine the relaxation rate. Intermediates having lifetimes longer than the period of the radiation pulses can be detected since the energy stored in these intermediates is temporarily lost to the translational degrees of freedom. Photo-induced exothermic reactions cause an amplification of the signal since more energy is made available for translation. Thus, optoacoustic spectroscopy provides information about a relaxation channel which is not usually measured in photochemical experiments. The reactions to be studied include the relaxation of the first excited singlet state of benzene, the reaction of excited nitrogen dioxide, and the photo-induced reactions of hexafluorobenzene, glyoxal, and cycloheptatriene.

(1) Faculty Mentor: Michael McShane Research Title: Nanofabricated Biochemical Sensors for Monitoring in Microgravitated Cultures: Stability of Immobilized/Encapsulated Enzymes and Indicators Student(s): Kyle Guice, Cathy Stanecki, Department of Biomedical Engineering/Institute for Micromanufacturing, Louisiana Tech University Abstract:   Cell and tissue growth in microgravitational environments provides an important area for space research and potential space commerce. Effects of microgravity on cells in a cultured environment include changes in organization and membrane structure of the cells. Future study of these effects is limited by repeatability of experiments, and this will depend upon the stability of devices used to monitor and control the environment. Novel technologies need to be developed to monitor the environment for cell growth and various effects on cell and tissue structure. Specialized fluorescent sensors, in the form of nanoparticles or films embedded in culture scaffolds, will allow specific biochemical changes to be monitored. The development of these micro/nanoscale sensors would enable further study of cell growth in space. We have been working on such systems for one year, and have made significant progress toward realizing micro/nanoscale systems that function as sensors (ions, oxygen, glucose, and lactate). For this project, the team will investigate properties of biosensors critical to long-term use. It is essential to achieve sensors that retain sufficient sensitivity over the required time period, and behave in a predictable manner. The students/PI team will study the stability of the systems with respect to time, and determine methods to achieve adequate longevity: two months of continuous function will be targeted. Both mechanical and chemical stability will be determined and optimized. Results of the work will be presented at Biomedical Engineering research seminars, a bio-micro-sensors workshop, and a professional society meeting.   (2) Faculty Mentor: Louis Roemer Research Title: Automatic Health Monitoring of Humans in Hot/Humid Environments Implementing Wireless Technologies Student(s): Jeremiah Hill, Kalisha Hill, Department of Electrical Engineering, Louisiana Tech University Abstract:   Specialized medical monitoring devices utilize micro sensors, many of which contain integrated electronics. Astronauts utilize many such devices to monitor body functions, to evaluate stress, and to protect health. A problem, related to health monitoring of astronauts, occurs for earth science investigators exploring certain lava tubes and caves. High humidity and temperatures reduce the ability of investigators to function well in cave environments. Cooling gel-suits allow limited time in this restrictive environment. Available monitoring devices do not provide the portability, reprogramability, lifetime, and environmental ruggedness needed by those who study lava caves. The young research associates will be introduced to microcomputer programming, good practice in electrode and sensor use, wireless data links, miniaturization and optimization of electronic devices, portable power sources, cost effective packaging, and responsibilities in working with animals and humans. The team will investigate and design more efficient body sensors to be used in cave exploration. The devices will monitor body parameters such as temperature and heart rate, presenting alarms to both the user and a remote base when safe ranges are exceeded.   (3) Faculty Mentor: Yuri M. Lvov Research Title: Enzyme Delivery Technology Based on Nanoengineered Shells Student(s): Jennifer Culpepper, Department of Engineering, Institute of Micromanufacturing, Louisiana Tech University Abstract:   Dr. Lvov is co-principal investigator of NASA project #NAS2-02059 "Nanoparticle Technology for DNA-Repair Enzyme Delivery." This project aims to develop useful nanoscale polymer materials to advance current knowledge and capabilities for production of medically-relevant technologies. The project includes 1) demonstration of methods for fabrication of nano colloidal structures with unique chemical, optical, mechanical, and biological properties; and 2) use of these concepts in the development of novel devices for biomedical applications, specifically for enzyme delivery systems. Jennifer Culpepper already works in Dr. Lvov's group. She was trained on "Zeta Plus Surface Potential and Nanoparticle Size Meter" (Brookhaven Instruments). Her work on LURA project will be very helpful for large NASA-project mentioned above. In her work, J. Culpepper will first establish protocol for layer-by-layer assembly of 40 nm thick polymer shells on 500-5000 nm diameter latex particles. Then she will elaborate a protocol to dissolve these microtemplates in order to get empty microcapsules. Second, she will load enzyme, glucose oxidase, in these microcapsules and will analyze its biocatalytic activity. At the final step, she will introduce in the shells magnetic nanoparticle and will demonstrate possibility to focus these binanoreactors by external magnetic field.   (4) Faculty Mentor: Michael McShane Research Title: Blood Pressure Monitoring Using Integrated Sensors Student(s): Rebekah Cobb, Department of Biomedical Engineering, Louisiana Tech University Abstract:   Newly developed commercial low pressure sensors will be used in blood pressure monitoring instrument design. The instrument design will utilize microprocessor control and display of relevant data.

(1) Faculty Mentor: Haifeng Ji Research Title: Detection of Hydrogen Peroxide Using Ultrasensitive Microcantilever Sensors Student(s): Kalisha Hill, Mevan Siriwardance, Institute for Micromanufacturing, Louisiana Tech University Abstract:   NASA is currently facing a problem concerning hydrogen peroxide leakage in the air from satellite thrusters. Although various methods have been reported for the detection of hydrogen peroxide, none to date are practical for detecting hydrogen peroxide in the air. Nevertheless, H2O2 concentration levels can be detected with great selectivity and sensitivity in either liquid or air mediums using Micro-Electro-Mechanical Systems (MEMs) technology such as microcantilever sensors. Some advantages of microcantilever systems include fast response time, miniature size, sensitivity, low-power consumption, and low cost. The microcantilever sensing is based upon changes in the deflection properties induced by environmental factors in the medium in which a microcantilever is immersed. The deflection can be monitored by the resistance changes of piezoresistive microcantilever. Microcantilever sensors have shown the capability of detecting analytes within the parts-per-billion to parts-per-trillion range. The selectivity and specificity can be regulated by coating the surface of microcantilevers with molecular recognition agents, which are used to attract analytes such as hydrogen peroxide. When the analytes selectively bind to these specific coatings on the surface, the cantilever bends due to added mass and stress. Various methods for immobilizing specific molecular binding reagents into polymer coatings for hydrogen peroxide detection will be considered throughout the project. The ultimate goal of this research is to develop a microcantilever based sensor for the detection of hydrogen peroxide vapor at NASA.   (2) Faculty Mentor: Roy W. Schubert Research Title: Microbubble-Microbubble Interaction - A Step toward a practical blood oxygenation device for Space Exploration Emergencies and Medical treatment of ARDS, SARS, and chemical/bio-chemical exposure Student(s): Dany Kitisian, Department of Biomedical Engineering, Louisiana Tech University Abstract:   Enabling exploration through research to enable safe and productive human habitation of space is one of NASA's Office of Biological & Physical Research goals. In order to make anything safe, unexpected outcomes should always be evaluated. Unfortunately one of those unexpected outcomes could be a life threatening one, in which immediate medical attention and care are necessary. The proposed research is a step along the path to develop a micro/nano device that delivers oxygen micro bubbles to the blood stream directly and safely, supplying the body with it's required oxygen. A concluded Systems Analysis suggest a multi-channel device the size of an ordinary pencil will meet adult oxygen needs and can be easily inserted (and removed!) through a leg vein. Currently the team has produced a stream of 10-13 microns bubbles using a single-channel device. These bubbles will dissolve in saline in less than 10-15 seconds. Bubbles above 40 microns expand. This LURA Grant Application is directed at observation of micro bubble to micro bubble interaction and development of a transport model of that behavior in saline and in various blood fractions up to, possibly, whole blood using the current single-channel device. Taking all this into perspective, we will then be able to commence design of a multi-channel device capable of supplying a human's total oxygen needs. Ultimately this research will provide an optimal, small device for oxygenating the body when the lungs are compromised by an accident, a disease (ARDS) or toxic gas release from such sources as space craft, war or terrorist attack.   (3) Faculty Mentor: Michael A. Land Research Title: FIPS - Fluorescent In-vitro/vivo Pathogen Studies Student(s): Joey Adam Guillory, Amanda Bray, Department of Biology, Northwestern State University Abstract:   Despite advances in food science, outbreaks of food borne based infections and intoxications continue. Food based pathogens strike in first and third world countries alike, and the possibility of an outbreak in space is conceivable. Pathogens need only opportunity to cause loss of productivity or life. The following pathogens are easily grown and spread in the food chain: Escherichia coli O157:H7, Salmonella enteritidis., Shigella dysentery and Staphylococcus aures. Interactions between man, environmental factors and food are somewhat obvious as each has a visible role. The microbial inter-linkings of the three are often difficult to observe directly. Microbial interactions can be visualized, utilizing fluorescently labeled antibodies attached to bacterial surfaces. While effective, a constant supply of antibodies and fluroescent labels must be produced or purchased. Antibody covered microbes may interfere with the pathogens' ability to interact in a normal fashion with the target substrate or cells. A novel method of finding and observing bacterial interaction is available. Pathogens can be bio-engineered by inserting plasmids to produce fluorescent proteins in the cytoplasm. These plasmids code for a protein that is nontoxic, non-interfering in cell machinery and can be visualized with an ultra-violet microscope. This glowing protein marker, once introduced into a pathogen, can allow the bacteria's actions to be followed and evaluated under a number of conditions such as: 1) physical and biochemical comparisons of modified and unmodified bacteria, 2) biofilm formation on food surfaces and subsequent processing, and 3) biofilm formation on/in living tissues and pathogen/host interactions.   (4) Faculty Mentor: Michael J. McShane Research Title: Intracellular Deployment of Nanofabricated Biochemical Sensors for Monitoring in Microgravitated Cultures: Delivery and Toxicity Studies Student(s): Kyle Guice, Mary Caldorera, Department of Biomedical Engineering, Institute for Micromanufacturing, Louisiana Tech University Abstract:   Cell and tissue growth in microgravitational environments provides an important area for space research and potential space commerce. Effects of microgravity on cells in a cultured environment include changes in organization and membrane structure of the cells. Future study of these effects is limited by repeatability of experiments, and this will depend upon the availability of devices used to analyze cell function in chronic experiments. Novel technologies need to be developed to monitor the environment for cell growth and various effects on cell and tissue structure. Specialized fluorescent sensors, in the form of nanoparticles or films embedded in culture scaffolds, will allow specific biochemical changes to be monitored. The development of these micro / nanoscale sensors would enable further study of cell growth in space. We have been working on such systems for two years, and have made significant progress toward realizing micro / nanoscale systems that function as sensors (ions, oxygen, glucose, and lactate). For this project, the team will investigate methods for implementation of intracellular biosensors for long-term use. It is essential to devise a means of delivering non-toxic, chemically and optically stable sensors to the cytoplasm in an efficient, predictable, and minimally-disruptive manner. The students/PI team will study the uptake of sensors by various cell types using a variety of transfection agents and physical means, and determine the acute and chronic effect of endocytosed particles on cells: two months of continuous function will be targeted. Results of the work will be presented at Biomedical Engineering research seminars, a local research conference, and a professional society meeting.   (5) Faculty Mentor: Charles J. Robinson Research Title: Postural Response to Constant Velocity Perturbations with and without Bias Student(s): Robert Vanya, Center for Biomedical Engineering and Rehabilitation Science, Louisiana Tech University Abstract:   The human postural control system integrates visual, vestibular, proprioceptive, somatosensory, and kinesthetic senses. Dysfunctioning of this integrated system can lead to vertigo, postural unsteadiness, slips and even injury-producing falls. Our SLIP/FALLS laboratory is one of the few facilities in the world to study the psychophysics of balance - that is, the ability to detect small, subtle postural perturbations whose magnitude lay within that of normal sway length. Using psychophysics to study the mechanisms that control balance and posture allows us to determine the inherent causes of these imbalances, and potentially better identify those likely to suffer a slip or fall. These psychophysical studies can also provide information on the mechanisms involved in movement perception following zero-gravity conditions. With a greater understanding of the effects of postural sensory depravation, we might find ways to facilitate the balance and movement of humans in space, and lessen "space-sickness." The psychophysical and postural response of upright individuals has been shown by our lab to be dependent on variations in peak displacement and in peak acceleration, with an inverse power-law relationship between the two. However, the effects of constant velocity movements (and hence controlled momentum) have not been tested. Our previous studies suggest that imparted energy (mass X acceleration X displacement) affects the threshold at which movement is detected. Constant velocity perturbations will give us a much better metric by which to control imparted energy, and to test this hypothesis. Further, we also study the affect of vestibular biases applied by galvanic stimulation of the mastoids.   (6) Faculty Mentor: Mark Slovak Research Title: Rotation Curves of Normal and Barred Spiral Galaxies Student(s): Sara Masson, Department of Physics and Astronomy, Louisiana State University Abstract:   The rotation curves of high inclination luminous spiral galaxies will be derived and used to model the mass distribution in these galaxies. Archival spectra of a sample of spiral galaxies (normal and barred) will be reanalyzed to derive their rotation velocity curves (radial velocity as a function of galactocentric distance). The HRPO 0.5 cm telescope and SBIG CCD spectrograph will be used to obtain spatially resolved spectra of Saturn's rings and one bright high inclination spiral galaxy. These spectra will be used to derive the rotation curves of Saturn's rings and the galaxy.   (7) Faculty Mentor: Dimitris E. Nikitopoulos Research Title: Proof-of-Concept Experiments of Actively Controlled Transverse Jets for Film Cooling Applications Student(s): Jeremiah Oertling, Ryan Dardar, Department of Mechanical Engineering, Louisiana State University Abstract:   The rotation curves of high inclination luminous spiral galaxies will be derived and used to model the mass distribution in these galaxies. Archival spectra of a sample of spiral galaxies (normal and barred) will be reanalyzed to derive their rotation velocity curves (radial velocity as a function of galactocentric distance). The HRPO 0.5 cm telescope and SBIG CCD spectrograph will be used to obtain spatially resolved spectra of Saturn's rings and one bright high inclination spiral galaxy. These spectra will be used to derive the rotation curves of Saturn's rings and the galaxy.

Scholarships		NASA Academy		KC-135 Flight		LURA Participants
Former Scholars		Academy Awardees				USRP Awardees