Research and Scholarship

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2017-2018 Design, Build, Fly: A Regional and Business Aircraft
(2018-05-08) Monroe, Robert; Lee, Seong-Jin; Rosiczkowski, Joseph; Ghotbi, Ehsan
This honors thesis covers the design and construction of the aircraft built by Alfred University's Gold Team for the Design, Build, Fly competition hosted by the American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics (AIAA).
3-D Graphical Area Mapping Bilinear Interactive Technology [3-D GAMBIT]
(Alfred University. Inamori School of Engineering., 2017-09) Itzhakov, Ariel A.; Lee, Seong-Jin; Rosiczkowski, Joseph; Leigh, Wallace
The main goal for this thesis project is to develop a 3-D image scanner that will be used as part of a larger effort in robotics and obstacle detection and avoidance. The scanner developed will be added to another robotics project being done by Dr. Seong-Jin Lee, Wanrui He, and Andres Garcia at Alfred University. Known as the Bubblebot, this robot is currently being designed to expand and contract to maneuver through different size spaces. The Bubblebot will use the scanner designed and built during this thesis project to map the area and determine the optimal size it needs to be to navigate through its environment. When researching previous 3-D mapping methods, i.e. RGB-D and Simultaneous Localization and Mapping (SLAM), three main flaws in many of the current techniques were determined and corrected. First was the inability to determine the distances of the objects in the scanner's range. Second was the size of the equipment needed for the 3-D scanner. Finally, the third was the large processing power needed to run the 3-D image generator program. To correct these problems as best as possible, simple parts and programs were used including a web cam and bilinear line laser along with the Arduino and Processing programs. During the testing stage, the 3-D scanner was completed and mounted onto a sample robot for testing. With the use of a Raspberry Pi model 3B the robot was programmed to map its environment, identify any obstacles in its path, and avoid them during navigation without the need of any human interaction. Overall the result of this project looked positive and when tested successfully worked. The final step for this 3-D scanner will be integrating it to the Bubblebot upon its completion.
3C [Combinatorics, Cybernetics, Crystallography]
(2017-05) Haleta, Michael; Lattanzi, Barbara; Scheer, Joseph; McCarthy, Lydia
In 1953 the term “3C” which stood for “Compulsory”, “Capacity”, and “Conflict” was given to one of the original minicomputer companies by the name of Computer Control Company, Inc. I have switched the 3 “C’s” to represent “cybernetics”, “combinatorics” and “crystallography” to link my current work to the processing and control systems found in early computers. Combinatorics is a branch of mathematics that deals with observing combinations of set elements and the mathematical relationships which characterize their properties. Crystallography is the study of the arrangements of repeating patterns of ions, molecules, matter and atoms within crystals. Cybernetics is the scientific study of any system which deals with but not limited to parameters of control, communication and the examination of all possibilities of connectivity. The purpose of this thesis research is to demonstrate and model how the analyzation of combinatorics, cybernetics and crystallography can lead to the generation of new emergent forms and growth processes in patterning systems, color organization and group performance. All three “C’s” have emphasized a shift in my artwork through the examination and documentation of growth, interaction, connectivity, flow, mutation and sequencing within both human (social) and digital structures. The results of these experiments will be revealed, and the conclusion will return to the idea that improvisation within structural sets generates new emergent behaviours. This idea will provide solid ground for a speculative conception of improvisation and its significance beyond the discourses of either art or science.
3D Motion Analysis from 2D Monochromatic Images of a Solar Prominence
(2013-05) Gai, Anthony David
Solar prominences are the massive formations of ionized gas collecting above the Sun's surface. Even after more than half a century of research, there is not a full understanding of the processes involved in the formation, support, and features of solar prominences. Solar prominences are often associated with flares and coronal mass ejections, both of which can be harmful to the earth. A deeper understanding of these solar phenomena will protect us from dangerous solar storms. In this report I present 3D motion analysis, via Doppler measurements (H-_, H-_, and Na-D), extracted from 2D monochromatic images of a prominence observed on 10 October 2012 from the Richard B. Dunn Solar Vacuum Tower, Sacramento Peak, NM. Magnetograms from THEMIS, Tiede Observatory, Tenerife, Canary Islands, Spain describe the magnetic field. Monochromatic images from Hinode's Solar Optical Telescope provide high resolution views (Ca II and H-_).
The ABCs of Cinematic Beauty
(2022-05) Torthe, Talulla; Kuplen, Mojca; Schlegel, Nicholas; Schultz, Pamela
Some films have a special allure, a spark that evokes a deep feeling of pleasure in the viewer. It is my objective, through The ABCs of Cinematic Beauty, to put into writing what gives some films that spark—what make these films, in my opinion, undeniably beautiful.
Abject Architect Landscape Survey 1
(2017-05) Griggs, Lea; Kelleher, Matt; Gill, John; Gill, Andrea; McConnel, Walter; Sikora, Linda; Sormin, Linda
This exhibition, Landscape Survey 1, provides various types of creative techniques to investigate, identify, analyze, record and interpret the aesthetic landscape. Interpretation is essential in providing the knowledge and understanding required for making effective decisions.
Abstracting Femininity
(2021-05) Aldrich, Kayleah; Wahl, Colleen; McMahon, Stephanie; Riesing, Katarina
My project reflects on my experiences that relate to movement, the body, and being a girl/woman in a world that favors the power of men. I describe pivotal moments and highly influential environments in my life, as well as my experience in learning and applying newfound knowledge of feminist theory, art history, and movement studies. Beginning by defining what feminism, bodies, and dance means to me, I outline these terms and ideas from my own perspective. I then reflect on these propositions through my more conscious lens onto past moments throughout my life that exemplify certain societal values based on bodies and gender. From there, I present how these narratives apply through theory on the body, and how these elements inspire and influence my artistic practice as I in a sense, abstract femininity.
Academic Exploration: A Look at Decision-Making in College
(2015) Johnson, Vienna
Many college students today are plagued with questions and uncertainties. They are struggling to discover what values they hold most dear and other such indicators of who they are as people. Emerging adulthood is a time of change, discovery, and decision. Decisions made at this time will follow young adults for the rest of their lives. Making choices about what career to pursue and what kind of person to be can be extremely challenging. Many college students are haunted by their inability to make satisfying decisions regarding their careers and are searching for answers as to why that is. This thesis undertook a critical literature review in order to better understand the choice-overload phenomenon as it relates to college uncertainty. The author sought to address three main ideas to explain decision-making problems that commonly affect college students: indecision, choice overload, and identity theory.
Academic Supports and College Success for Students with a Learning Disability
(2015) Rodriguez, Lauren Pilar
This study examined students with learning disabilities' use of academic consultation, a specific academic support, during the first year of college and the relation it had to completing the undergraduate degree. Forty-one participants were recruited via e-mail, telephone, and social media in order to request their consent to have the researcher access their academic and support services records. Results indicate that the number of academic consultant meetings attended during the first year of college did not have a significant impact on overall GPA or GPA at the end of the third semester. Those who used test accommodations during their first year were more likely to graduate in four years than those students who did not use their test accommodations during the first year. The findings suggest incoming first year students with learning disabilities should be aware of the importance of seeking out and registering with the disability office on campus in order to arrange for their test accommodations.
Additive Manufacturing of YSZ and Lithium Silicate Electroceramics for Energy Generation and Storage
(New York State College of Ceramics at Alfred University. Inamori School of Engineering., 2021-04) Zaengle, John T. H. C.; Sundaram, S.K.; Keenan, Timothy; Ding, Junjun
Additive manufacturing (AM) of electroceramics is of interest because electroceramics are an excellent fit for solid oxide electrolytes. Faster material testing through the use of rapid prototyping made available through advances in additive manufacturing is now available. This investigation summarizes work on two materials of interest for energy generation and storage applications, fully stabilized 8 mol% yttria-stabilized zirconia (YSZ) and lithium silicate powders printed with a Lithoz CeraFab 8500 lithography-based ceramic slurry printer. This thesis focuses on variations in base powder, binder system, solids loading, heating profile, layer thickness, and layer orientation. Final part density, porosity, grain size, resistance, conductivity, activation energy, and crystal structure were measured to determine both the viability of 3D-printing and the effects the layers might have on microstructure. Tosoh TZ-8YS powders mixed with Lithoz MS13B binder at a solid loading of 46.5 vol % sintered at 1450°C resulted in highly dense uniform parts with no noticeable variations in bulk resistance, conductivity, or activation energy due to layering. Lithium silicate powders mixed with Lithoz MS13B binder at a solid loading of 51 vol % sintered at 800°C resulted in dense parts with surface abnormalities and no noticeable variations in bulk resistance, conductivity, or activation because of layering. The results show that base powder, binder system, solids loading, and layer thickness are important for 3D-printing. Slurry viscosity with a solid loading between 40 and 50 % is controlled by powder, solids loading, and binder. Microstructure and successful densification of samples depend on powder quality, heating profile, layer orientation, and binder system. In addition, the layering does not have a direct impact on the electrical properties of 3D-printed parts.
Additive manufacturing of yttria stabilized zirconia and lithium silicate electroceramics for energy applications
(American Ceramic Society, 2022-09) Sundaram, S.K.; Zaengle, John; Allan, Shawn
Addressing Toxocara in humans and companion animals as a public health issue
(2018-04-16) Naclerio, Allison; Cardinale, Jean A.; Myers, Robert; Zimbler-DeLorenzo, Heather
Toxocara canis and Toxocara cati are zoonotic parasites that primarily infect dogs and cats. Toxocara is especially relevant to human health because humans frequently live in close contact with companion animals. Young animals are at risk for complications while adult dogs and cats rarely experience severe illness due to Toxocara infection. Infected humans can develop toxocariasis, which can be very dangerous. Both humans and animals can become infected by accidently ingesting Toxocara eggs. Because Toxocara eggs can persist in the environment under harsh conditions and for very long periods of time, infection is significant health concern. The issue of Toxocara is not currently being addressed properly. In order to comprehensively and effectively address Toxocara infection, public health initiatives targeting human health, animal health, and Toxocara in the environment must be implemented to decrease incidence and prevalence of Toxocara infection.
Addressing you & I Addressing we
(2018-05) Gause, Sydni; Cox, Diane; Powers, Angus
My work acts like the proud quilted banners pinned to the walls of a Southern Baptist church that read "King of Kings" and "Lord of Lords." I begin by investigating the role of material and the psychological undertones that follow, as objects like these are situated in specific sociopolitical contexts. Similar to the iconic chrome decal of a sexualized woman that has been stuck to the back of a pick-up truck, I find these religious textual devices to allude to a particular type of identity, one that is commonly seen in the South where sexist oppression of women is an active reality. My sculptural work manifests similar physical properties to the items above, yet negates the original intention, often times speaking directly to the viewer and their conditioned gender constructs. My aim here is to challenge this form of conditioning, especially between text and iconography. It is within this critical way of manipulating recognizable objects that I ask my work to be active and vocal while reaching an empathetic conclusion.
Adhesion Studies with Ultra-Thin Glass
(New York State College of Ceramics at Alfred University. Inamori School of Engineering., 2022-02) Fekety, Curtis; LaCourse, William; Sundaram, S.K.; Clare, Alexis
A phenomenon was observed during work producing "ultra-thin glass" (<150μ thickness) where samples folded onto themselves displayed strong adhesion and served as a simple method to analyze contaminants in the process and packaging of resulting ware. Subsequent Contact Angle, Wedge Test, and T-Peel studies were performed to understand the baseline of Surface Free Energy (SFE) for this direct bonding and attempts were made to refresh aged and packaged samples through various cleaning steps to produce a similar effect. When results showed SFE change was minimal between aged, cleaned, and fresh glass and no treatments enabled similar direct bonding to fresh samples, 90° and 180° Peel Test with adhesive tapes and films were used as a surrogate to rank the effectiveness of attempted cleaning procedures. Such tests yielded widely ranging values inherent to known issues with peel testing, but provided useful data to calculate true adhesion values of just 2 - 2.5 N/m, which were 1 to 3 orders of magnitude less than the experimental values due to work absorbed by elastic/plastic effects when peeling the polymer adherend. Highly flexible glass samples do not experience plastic deformation, so studying direct bonded ultra-thin glass provides a unique perspective on adhesion studies by excluding plastic effects. It was also demonstrated that although the direct bonded samples had even lower peel strengths after initial separation, the bond strength was higher than strong tapes and even epoxy prior to edge-crack formation, showing the usefulness of direct bonding in optical materials and potential for future development.
Adolescent Body Image: Examining the Relationship Between Adolescent Dancers and Their Teachers
(2017-11) Ostrum, Erin; Atlas, Jana
This study examined the relationship between the perceived verbal and nonverbal messages given by dance teachers and the body image of their adolescent dancers. Variables such as level of dance (i.e., competitive or purely recreational) and amount of time spent practicing dance were also examined. Seventy-eight female adolescents, who were enrolled in dance classes in studios in Western New York, participated in this study. This is a sample that is younger than has typically been studied. Results indicated that more negative messages perceived by the dancer from their teacher related to a more negative body image in the dancer. Additionally, a significant relationship with the dancers’ body image was not demonstrated when considering competitive level and amount of time practicing dance. Thus, regardless of level of dance or amount of time spent practicing dance, a strong relationship existed between verbal and nonverbal messages perceived by the dancer from the teacher and a dancer’s body image. Given the limited amount of current research that exists for this group of adolescent recreational dancers, the significant findings of the current study may begin to shape the future interactions between dance teachers and their students. Specifically, dance teachers should be aware of the connection between the messages they give and their dancer’s body image. This awareness might prompt them to take more care with the messages they offer or even seek training in this area.
The Aesthetics of Forgetting
(2016) Torrence, Virginia Rose
There are certain symbols, types of touch, and a personal aesthetic that emerge from this process of searching. Some reoccurring symbols within my work are hair, fabric, holes, eyes, impressions, fruit, jewelry, and flesh. All of these objects reference the body, but they are devoid of the presence which once employed them, so now point to an absence. I portray the presence of absence. The objects I use act as a metaphor for an intense desire for something lost. The way in which the imagery is rendered, from intangible abstraction, to carefully sculpted elements, to a piece that is a cast of an object itself, mirrors the way in which a memory recedes into darkness and ambiguity or how it may come into a tight and stunning focus. The process of remembering and forgetting is always in flux. Even when a presence does come close, it will skirt around the perimeter of clarity within the mind’s eye. I objectify the obscurity of fleeting memory images, creating a monument to unattainable desire for the past.
Affinity and Structural Analysis of the U1A RNA Recognition Motif with Engineered Methionines to Improve Experimental Phasing
(MDPI, 2021-03) Lippa, Geoffrey; Srivastava, Yoshita; Bonn-Breach, Rachel; Chavali, Sai Shashank; Jenkins, Jermaine; Wedekind, Joseph
RNA plays a central role in all organisms and can fold into complex structures to orchestrate function. Visualization of such structures often requires crystallization, which can be a bottleneck in the structure-determination process. To promote crystallization, an RNA-recognition motif (RRM) of the U1A spliceosomal protein has been co-opted as a crystallization module. Specifically, the U1-snRNA hairpin II (hpII) single-stranded loop recognized by U1A can be transplanted into an RNA target to promote crystal contacts and to attain phase information via molecular replacement or anomalous diffraction methods using selenomethionine. Herein, we produced the F37M/F77M mutant of U1A to augment the phasing capability of this powerful crystallization module. Selenomethionine-substituted U1A(F37M/F77M) retains high affinity for hpII (KD of 59.7 ± 11.4 nM). The 2.20 Å resolution crystal structure reveals that the mutated sidechains make new S-π interactions in the hydrophobic core and are useful for single-wavelength anomalous diffraction. Crystals were also attained of U1A(F37M/F77M) in complex with a bacterial preQ1-II riboswitch. The F34M/F37M/F77M mutant was introduced similarly into a lab-evolved U1A variant (TBP6.9) that recognizes the internal bulged loop of HIV-1 TAR RNA. We envision that this short RNA sequence can be placed into non-essential duplex regions to promote crystallization and phasing of target RNAs. We show that selenomethionine-substituted TBP6.9(F34M/F37M/F77M) binds a TAR variant wherein the apical loop was replaced with a GNRA tetraloop (KD of 69.8 ± 2.9 nM), laying the groundwork for use of TBP6.9(F34M/F37M/F77M) as a crystallization module. These new tools are available to the research communit
Alchemy Juice
(2017-05) Zablocki, Alex M.; McConnel, Walter; Kelleher, Matt; Sikora, Linda; Sormin, Linda; Gill, Andrea; Gill, John
My work is a marathon exercise in the deconstruction and adaptation of vessel aesthetics, form, function, conventions and histories. I remain alchemically adventurous by employing a wide range of materials, processes, chance and humor. Through risk, exploration, and random experimental compositions, I push against categories. Vessels are no longer made to use and sculptures operate within a size similar to pottery. In my work, the intimacy of scale alongside carefully considered surfaces and structures invites the viewer in on a visceral and optical adventure in which I provoke the senses by incorporating a cornucopia of rich and exotic theatrics.
Alexithymia in College-Aged Students
(2017-05-02) Carosa, Catarina L.; Button, Amy; Johnson, Beth; Lowry, Michele
This epidemiological study focused on prevalence of the personality trait, alexithymia–the inability to recognize and describe one’s own emotions–among college-aged students. Levels of normative alexithymia (measured by the NMAS), clinical alexithymia (measured by the TAS), as well as attitudes towards help seeking behavior (measured by the ATSPPH) were assessed. A total of 547 participants were collected from over 48 colleges and universities, primarily in Western New York. Results indicated that 89.5% of college students displayed moderate to high levels of normative alexithymia and 48.7% displayed moderate to high levels of clinical alexithymia. Additionally, there were no significant differences between the scores of men and women on either alexithymia measure. Significant findings indicated that there was a positive relationship between clinical alexithymia scores and attitudes toward help-seeking. These results call into question previous literature, which states that there is no correlation between alexithymia and help-seeking behavior (Berger et al., 2005). The results of this study show a shift in culture as well as a need for more research regarding and focus on alexithymia.
The Alfred Book of Ghastly Tales
(2018-04-25) Woznica, Elizabeth; Grove, Allen; Gray, Juliana; Morehouse, Susan
My main goal with The Alfred Book of Ghastly Tales is to showcase the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences (CLAS) here at Alfred University. Seeing an anthology of student and faculty writing for sale on Amazon and Barnes & Noble is something that would have convinced me to attend Alfred University long before I actually came to Accepted Students Day and met with the friendly and inviting Division of English. Although an English degree is available at nearly all colleges across the country, I think the opportunities offered by the Division of English here are unparalleled. I hope that this book will encourage prospective students to consider attending the small liberal arts college “nestled away ‘mid the Empire State hills” by using our society’s obsession with the paranormal.

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