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Homepage > Academics > Special Academic Programs > McNair Scholars > Abstracts > Cohort 6
COHORT 6 ~ 2000-2001
Cloning the Human Transfer RNA m1A Methyltransferase
Joshua Andersland, Biochemistry
Paul Stein, Ph.D., Department of Chemistry
The College of St. Scholastica
James Anderson, Ph.D., Department of Biology
University of Marquette, Michigan
ABSTRACT
Transfer ribonucleic acid (tRNA) interprets the genetic information found in messenger RNA (mRNA) during protein synthesis. Many of the nucleotides in tRNA are post-transcriptionally modified, and these modifications play roles in tRNA structure and function. Thus far, at least 80 different modified nucleosides have been identified with unique enzymes catalyzing most of these. One such modification enzyme, the 1-methyladenosine (m1A) methyltransferase (Mtase), catalyzes the formation of m1A at position 58 of several tRNAs. The m1A Mtase from Saccharomyces cerevisiae (yeast) is novel among tRNA modification enzymes in that it is composed of two-subunits, Gcd10p and Gcd14p, and each protein is essential for cell viability.
BLAST (Basic Local Alignment Search Tool) database searches using the Gcd10p and Gcd14p amino acid sequences have revealed the presence of homologues in a variety of eukaryotes, suggesting that the two-subunit structure of this enzyme has been maintained throughout evolution. Notably, the m1A modification has been demonstrated to be an important determinant in the replication of HIV. Therefore, cloning and studying the human m1A Mtase is potentially relevant for drug development in the fight against HIV infection.
Previously, Dr. Anderson cloned the human homologue of the yeast GCD10 gene, HuGCD10, into a plasmid for expression in yeast. To complement those studies, the human homologue of the yeast GCD14 gene, HuGCD14, was to be cloned but was unsuccessful. Several expressed sequence tags (ESTs) from human fetal lung containing HuGCD14 sequences were found during database searches, which led us to believe that fetal lung mRNA would provide an excellent source for the successful cloning of HuGCD14. To expedite the cloning of the HuGCD14 gene, we conducted reverse transcription (RT) using mRNA from human fetal lung. In addition, we used human kidney cell mRNA as another test in our RT experiments when we encountered difficulties using the fetal lung mRNA. After making the first strand cDNA using RT, we attempted to amplify the RT products using polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and oligonucleotides specific for HuGCD14.
In addition to cloning HuGCD14, HuGCD10 was cloned into a bacterial vector for expression studies involving the co-expression of HuGcd10p and HuGcd14p. To accomplish this goal, HuGCD10 was obtained by PCR amplification from a plasmid known to contain the gene and inserted into the bacterial expression vector. Further tests were done to determine the inducibility and solubility of the recombinant HuGcd10p.
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Streptavidin Displacement from a Biotin-labeled Cross-linked DNA Duplex
by the Hexameric gp41 Helicase.
Joshua Andersland, Biochemistry
Kevin D. Raney, Ph.D., Department of Biochemistry
University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences
ABSTRACT
Helicases are a ubiquitous enzyme responsible for unwinding double-stranded (ds) DNA in various processes such as replication, recombination and transcription. The protein gp41 is the replicative helicase found in the model organism E. coli T4 bacteriophage. Understanding the function of the gp41 will increase understanding of helicases in general, as well as diseases associated with faulty helicases such as xeroderma pigmentosum, Bloom’s and Werner’s syndrome. Evidence suggests that both strands of dsDNA might pass through the central channel of the hexameric helicase gp41. To test whether this is possible, this study attempted to cross-link a biotinylated duplex and conduct a streptavidin displacement assay on the substrate. However, the cross-linking reaction was not successful.
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Isolation, Characterization, and Quaternary Structure of
Chitin-Binding American Mistletoe Lectin
Rachel Balder, Biochemistry
Paul Stein, Ph.D., Department of Chemistry
The College of St. Scholastica
ABSTRACT
Research was done on chitin-binding American Mistletoe Lectin (cbAML) to compare its properties with commonly studied European Mistletoe lectin (cbML). The molecular weight was observed to be around 46 kDa. This proved immediately that it was not the same protein as found in European mistletoe. Protein cbAML may possibly be the first of a new class of chitin-binding proteins. The lectin’s quaternary structure was determined by pH effects on fluorescence and gel filtration columns. The quaternary structure of cbAML is dependant on the pH of its environment. Through Periodic Acid Schiff staining, cbAML was also found to be a glycoprotein. Deglycosylation was attempted but the exact fraction of carbohydrates contained in cbAML was not determined.
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Knowledge of the Female Athlete Triad at
NCAA Member Institution Athletic Departments
Michelle L. Fischer, Exercise Physiology
William F. Simpson, Ph.D., Department of Exercise Physiology
The College of St. Scholastica
ABSTRACT
The female athlete triad is defined as the inter-relationship of disordered eating, amenorrhea, and osteoporosis in female athletes. Previous investigations have suggested a high prevalence of disordered eating patterns and amenorrhea in collegiate athletes. However, little is known as to what extent and how universities and college athletic departments are equipped to assist female athletes who may be suffering from disordered eating, disturbance of menstrual function, and even early signs of osteoporosis. Ideally, a multidisciplinary team comprised of physicians, athletic trainers, psychologists, registered dieticians, coaches, athletic administrators and exercise physiologists should be involved in the recovery and treatment processes. The purpose of this study was twofold: to assess both the knowledge of the female athlete triad, and the treatment and intervention mechanisms in place at the administrative level of 366 NCAA division I, II, and III schools.
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Child Emotional Abuse and Neglect: A Qualitative Study
Darla Hall, Social Work
Teresa Aldach, M.S.W., L.I.C.S.W., Department of Social Work
The College of St. Scholastica
ABSTRACT
This research explored the effects of child emotional abuse and neglect. The purpose was to gain new insight from the experience of child welfare professionals in order to make recommendations for improved strategies. Interviews were conducted with ten child welfare professionals including: Initial Intervention Social Worker, Mental Health Social Worker, Day Care Center Social Worker, Pediatrician, Pediatric Psychiatrist, Pediatric Psychologist, Police Sergeant, Public Health Nurse, Non-Profit Community Advocate and a Parent Educator. Insights gained include: knowledge of the working definition of child emotional abuse and neglect utilized by child welfare professionals; information regarding the symptoms, diagnosis, behaviors and long term effects exhibited by victims of child abuse and neglect; and increased understanding of the current nature of professional intervention. The research revealed that the professionals were fairly consistent in their reports about the impact emotional abuse and neglect had on children. Themes were identified within the definitions of emotional abuse and neglect. Sufficient information was found to make recommendations for the following areas of child welfare intervention strategies: community involvement, services for parents, community education and needed continuing education for child welfare professionals regarding governing laws and regulations.
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This study arose from the desire to determine how physicians perceive Group C and G symptomatic exudative pharyngitis infections. Group A, C and G culture results were obtained from the St. Mary’s Duluth Clinic Health System. Seventy-eight physicians in the Duluth, MN area were surveyed to ascertain their opinions of Group C and G streptococci. Of the responding physicians, 84% believe that Group C and G streptococci cause symptomatic exudative pharyngitis. These physicians also believe that Group C and G streptococci can cause complications like a peritonsillar abscess or endocarditis. Research has indicated that both Groups C and G may be responsible for endemic and epidemic pharyngitis. Research has also shown that other complications including scarlet fever and reactive arthritis may follow infection.
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Health Care Professionals' Attitudes Toward Young Single Parents
Jill Lorge, Nursing
Gloria Pearson, M.A., R.N., Department of Nursing
The College of St. Scholastica
ABSTRACT
Young single parents are patients in the health care system who are often underserved; yet they are also in need of the most care and education. One barrier young single parents face in health care is how the health care profession receives them. This study investigates the attitudes of health care professionals toward young single parents. The subjects involved included 116 health care professionals in northeastern Minnesota and northwestern Wisconsin currently working in family practice, obstetrics/gynecology, pediatrics, public health, and various other areas. The quantitative results were as follows: 1) health care professionals feel that young single parents lack certain maternal skills observed in older married mothers, 2) health care professionals respect their young single parents, and 3) health care professionals are friendly toward their pregnant patients whether they are married or not. The qualitative data suggests that members of the health care profession find young single parents to be irresponsible and immature. Their decreased financial support and social support were also emphasized. The most promising result indicates that most health care professionals spend more time caring for and educating young single parents compared to traditional two-parent families.
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Changing Occupations: An Evaluation of Life Satisfaction in Retirement
Katie L. Michalski, Occupational Therapy
Rondell Berkeland, Ed.D., O.T.R./L., Department of Occupational Therapy
The College of St. Scholastica
ABSTRACT
Activities that result in a sense of being valued and contributing to society are positively related to life satisfaction in retirement. The purpose of this study is to test the hypothesis that there is a positive relationship between engaging in various roles and activities (occupational behavior) and overall life satisfaction in retirement. The participants include 44 older adults, 31 women and 13 men, ages 65 years and over who are retired individuals and who live independently in apartments. A questionnaire adapted from two existing assessment tools was developed to gather data on the activities in which they engage and the level of satisfaction in retirement. A Spearman’s Correlation Coefficient was used to analyze the relationship between engaging in meaningful activity and life satisfaction among retirees. The results demonstrate that engaging in meaningful activity plays a positive, significant role in influencing life satisfaction among retirees. These results illustrate the importance of engaging in meaningful occupations to ensure successful adaptation and optimal life satisfaction in retirement.
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Differentiation In Health Screening Behaviors:
Women with Mental Illness Vs. Unafflicted Women In a 16 County Region
Phuong T. Nguyen, Biology
Timothy W. Van Wave, P.H., Department of Family Medicine
University of Minnesota - Duluth
ABSTRACT
The Bridge to Health Survey 2000 was designed to provide a reliable, local, accurate picture of a 16-county region’s health status. This study utilizes the results of that survey to describe the prevalence of mental health issues among women residing in northeastern Minnesota and northwestern Wisconsin as well as to explore relationships between mental health issues and health screening behaviors. The relationships are then compared to the women’s locales, be they rural or urban communities. The Chi square test of independence was used to analyze the Bridge to Health 2000 data. No association was found between women with mental illnesses and prevalence of health screening behaviors. No association was found between mental illness/screening behaviors and measures of rurality.
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A Native Journey: Walking In Two Worlds
Wendy Quade, Ojibwe Language and Culture Education
Kim Granberg, Ph.D., Department of Education
The College of St. Scholastica
ABSTRACT
This phenomenological research explores the essence of lived experience of people of mixed Native American heritage. The central research question for which greater understanding is sought in this interpretive research is: “What has been your experience as a person with mixed Native American heritage?” This question will explore purposeful sample data from four people who are of mixed native heritage and who identify themselves in varying degrees as Native American. Two of the participants are enrolled in a federally recognized tribe. One is a non-enrollee, who is unsure of blood quantum percentages in her family, and the fourth participant meets criteria for enrollment, but is a non-enrollee by choice. The criteria used to determine the participants are: (a) participants identify on some level as a Native American, be of mixed Native American heritage, and (b) participants are able to pass as a person of non-color in dominant US society.
Considering the sparse amount of research available in a phenomenological format regarding people of mixed-native heritage, this study will fill a gap in scholarly research. Also, there is a need for native people to research other native phenomena, in order for research to be presented from a native perspective. The research is designed to share insights of native people rather than to exploit.
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Relationships Between the Big Five Personality Factors,
Resiliency Attitudes, and Life Satisfaction in Divorced Parents
Melissa Scanlan, Psychology
Debra Schroeder, Ph.D., Department of Psychology
The College of St. Scholastica
ABSTRACT
This study investigated the connections between the Big Five Personality Factors, resiliency attitudes, and life satisfaction in divorced single parents. It was predicted that resiliency and life satisfaction would correlate positively with the personality characteristic of extraversion and negatively with the personality characteristic of neuroticism. Thirty-seven participants from two divorce support groups, a college in a midwestern state, and a group of interested divorced individuals were administered the following instruments: the Resiliency Attitude Scale (RAS) which produces seven subscale scores, the NEO-FFI which measures personality and produces five subscale scores, and the Satisfaction With Life Scale (SWLS). Pearson correlations were calculated between the subscale scores of the NEO-FFI, RAS, and SWLS. No significant relationships were found between the NEO-FFI and the RAS subscale scores or the total RAS score, nor between the NEO-FFI and the SWLS. However, there were two correlations between the NEO-FFI and items from the subscales of the RAS. Specifically, more neurotic individuals tended to find new ways of looking at things; less extraverted individuals tended to avoid repeating unhealthy relationships. A discussion will follow regarding reasons for the lack of relationships, directions for future research, and the limitations of this study.
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The Evolution of Henry David Thoreau's Perspective
Toward the American Indian in his Journal
Deanne Schaefbauer, English/Indian Studies
Kim Granberg, Ph.D., Department of Education
The College of St. Scholastica
ABSTRACT
This project explores Henry David Thoreau's attitude toward the American Indian as presented in his Journal. The challenge of this proposal is to show how Henry David Thoreau evolved, changed, and altered his opinion as he familiarized himself with the American Indian. Furthermore, it is the intention of this project to apply nineteenth century white imagery, the concept of savagism, and ethnocentrism (that permeated society) while analyzing his Journal entries; thereby assessing how these factors may have influenced Henry David Thoreau's initial bias.
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The Role of Female Identity and Relationships in Brian Friel’s Plays
Carrie Taylor, English
William Hodapp, Ph.D., Department of English
The College of St. Scholastica
Abstract
This paper explores the role of women in Irish literature, supported by the texts of three plays by contemporary Irish playwright Brian Friel. The traditional roles of the woman are examined, and it is concluded that although Friel acknowledges traditional roles by the female, his interpretation takes an untraditional spin on the roles of nurturer, lover/companion, and educator. The presentation of these roles is imperative to the analysis of the key male characters of each play. It would be impossible to disassociate the relationship between the ability to fulfill these roles, however successfully or unsuccessfully, and the influence of the male characters with whom these women interact in the plays.
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Psychological Barrier Adults Face in Smoking Cessation
Linda Tougas, Social Work
Monica Roth Day, M.S.W., Department of Social Work
The College of St. Scholastica
ABSTRACT
Individuals who wish to end their smoking habit face significant barriers. Psychological factors play a key role. This qualitative study utilizes the systems perspective in investigating psychological factors that lead to successful cessation. Using non-probability sampling methods, eight participants who have successfully abstained from smoking for one year or longer were interviewed with the use of a structured questionnaire. The findings indicate that once smokers commit to ending their smoking habit, they can quit successfully on their own and overcome psychological barriers. The most widely used method for the participants for achieving success was the use of prayer and meditation, as well as mental diversions of thought. Family and friends do not play a significant role.
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