Stratigraphic and Mineralogical Characteristics of Cu-Zn-Co-Mn Mantos at Minera Boleo, Santa Rosalía, BCS, Mexico

This poster documents a REU research project investigating the stratigraphic emplacement of ore minerals in a mining district in Baja California Sur, Mexico.

Structural Determination of the Olfactory Epithelium in Terrestrial Adult Rough-Skinned Newts (Taricha granulosa)

Taricha granulosa (rough-skinned newt) uses olfaction for feeding, migration, and mate choice. In this study, we are examining the olfactory epithelium with scanning and transmission electron microscopy to determine whether variation in cellular morphology exists amongst seasonally terrestrial adults and aquatic larvae.

Studies of Bio-Sustainable Materials by Scanning Electron Microscopy

Priscilla Gamez, Chemistry Undergraduate Student

Biomaterials derived from plants can provide stocks for biofuels and additives for sustainable bioplastic composites. Here, scanning electron microscopy (SEM) was used to image cellulase enzyme-exposed samples vs. controlled samples, which indicated cellulose degradation. SEM examination of PLA-quinoa composites indicated successful incorporation of quinoa chaff into these biodegradable plastics. This study of cellulase contributes to understanding its role in enhancing biofuel feedstock production. Moreover, our PLA-quinoa composites show promise as biodegradable and biorenewable materials. Future studies will analyze cellulase-treated PLA-quinoa composites.

Study of Hornblende Reaction Rims in Regard to Magma Rate Through the Conduit in California's Mt. Lassen's 1915 Eruption

Interpretation of hornblende reaction rims through the use of a scanning electron microscope to establish accent rate and path of magma through Mt. Lassen's volcanic conduit in the 1915 eruption.

Studying the Connection Between X-Ray and UV Absorption in AGN Outflows

Active Galactic Nuclei are still somewhat of an enigma; young, bright galaxies with a large range of redshifts. Our current research is focused on gas outflows from the active galactic nucleus (AGN). These outflows are identified by broad absorption lines in the spectra of AGN. Current multi-epoch observations of many active galactic nuclei (AGN) have resulted in broad absorption lines that appear and disappear over time. Current observations show that these outflows have speeds up to 0.2c. Our team’s ultimate goal is to understand the mechanism that drives quasar outflows and characterize the broad spectral absorption lines, as well as why the outflows are variable

Stylohyoid-tympanic articulation in shrews and its possible implications for echolocation

Silvia Pavan, Biological Sciences Faculty

Echolocation has evolved in several mammals, including shrews. In bats, echolocation may occur through the larynx via the stylohyoid-tympanic articulation (ST-A). Using CT scans, we studied the morphology of the inner ear to determine if the ST-A is present in echolocating shrews. Of the nine sampled genera, three have behavioral data suggesting echolocation. Six species presented ST-A, including four species not known to echolocate. Given the limited behavioral data and the small data set, a few interpretations are possible, all of which highlight the need for additional research in this understudied mammalian group in order to reveal the role of the ST-A in shrew echolocation.

Stylohyoid-tympanic articulation in shrews and its possible implications for echolocation

Silvia Pavan, Biological Sciences Faculty

Echolocation has evolved in several mammals, including shrews. In bats, echolocation may occur through the larynx via the stylohyoid-tympanic articulation (ST-A). Using CT scans, we studied the morphology of the inner ear to determine if the ST-A is present in echolocating shrews. Of the nine sampled genera, three have behavioral data suggesting echolocation. Six species presented ST-A, including four species not known to echolocate. Given the limited behavioral data and the small data set, a few interpretations are possible, all of which highlight the need for additional research in this understudied mammalian group in order to reveal the role of the ST-A in shrew echolocation.

Surface Ocean Distribution of Trace Metals in the California Current System During a Year of Anomalously Low Upwelling

Upwelling in the California Current System (CCS) brings nutrient rich water to the continental shelf. Included with these nutrients are some trace metals. Trace iron (Fe) has been shown to be a control on primary productivity in the CCS. 2014 marked a year of low upwelling along the CA coast. This anomaly provides an opportunity to assess annual variability in processes affecting micronutrient distributions here. In 2014, the IRNBRU research cruise measured surface macronutrient and trace metal distributions in the CCS. Their results show lower nutrient concentrations than found in previous studies, and suggest an unusual uptake ratio of macronutrients by microorganisms in the area.

Survey and Map English Ivy Distribution at the Patrick’s Point State Park, California

Patrick’s Point State Park has experienced a tremendous growth of English Ivy that has causing a damage to park resources. The goal of this study was to accurately map English Ivy habitats, estimate coverage, and survey English Ivy colonization effects on tree trunks. The results showed that the English Ivy growth has decreased from 8.0 acres to 6.5 acres between 2015 and 2016 respectively due to park restoration activity supported by volunteer organizations. The English Ivy growth on tree trunks was significant for Western Hemlock and Sitka Spruce. With this project the park will be able to locate the most English Ivy spots that require attention, and monitor their growth rate.

Survey of Extremely High Velocity Outflows in Quasars from the Sloan Digital Sky Survey's Ninth Data Release

We present the first survey of extremely high velocity outflows (EHVO) in quasars from the Sloan Digital Sky Survey data release nine quasar catalog (SDSS DR9Q). Our survey draws from the 87,822 spectral targets in DR9Q. EHVO candidates were identified by measurement of one of the transitions due to absorption in carbon ion (C-IV), which appear in the spectrum as broad absorption features. Spectrum analysis was carried out by python codes developed by our group with results confirmed by visual inspection. The presented survey is composed of 45 quasars EHVO ranging in velocity from ~50,000 to 30,000 km/s. Our survey will be made available online as a publicly accessible database.