Sample Abstracts
(The following abstract sample is titled: "Understanding Zebrafish Pigment Formation Through Functional Genomics")
As part of the effort to increase the genomics screening capacity of the University of Wisconsin-Stout’s Zebrafish Lab, we are investigating morpholino phosphorodiamidate oligonucleotide (MO) “knockdown” of pigment-related genes. A functional genomics tool complementary with other genomics tools, MOs allow rapid evaluation of gene expression knockdown in targeted pathways and are valuable in the advancement of understanding human disease and vertebrate development. To maximize embryo production for these experiments using our limited supply of breeding zebrafish (Danio rerio) on a primarily flake food diet, a breeding system consisting of alternating weeks of male/female separation has been investigated that yields about 1000 embryos per week (two collections). In order to establish and test MO knockdown of pigment-related genes, MOs will be injected into embryos at the one- to two-cell stage. Embryo manipulation and injection technique will be evaluated via injections of a tracking dye or a MO against tyrosinase, the rate-limiting enzyme of melanin production. Injection efficiency greater than 90% as assayed by the percent dye-stained embryos or percent pigment inhibited embryos will be used to assess injection success, prior to investigation of MO knockdown of other pigment-related genes. Ultimately, these pigment MOs will increase our understanding of pigment pathways.
(The following abstract sample is titled: "Capturing the Moment after Meditation on a Beach")
Meditation is an activity which builds a relationship among myself, art, and nature. Weekly meditation on a beach influences my artwork. The nature changes dramatically depending on seasons. Creating a series of monthly meditation drawings helps to keep track of my emotional and physical responses to the nature. Thus, my goal is to portray a juxtaposition of meditation on the beach, the seasons, and myself. In order to achieve the goal, I use mixed media. This method allows me to create multiple layers. The entire canvas is painted with acrylic, sands from the beach are glued on top of the canvas, wax is brushed on the canvas, and a combination of oil pastels, baby oil, and golden powder are used. Abstract, yet organic forms in the artwork capture the moment in autumn. The cracked surface creates imagery of colorful dead leaves falling down to the earth. Thus, I successfully captured the sense of autumn through the usage of mixed materials, colors, and texture. All my five senses, especially auditory, tactile, and odor, become keen while closing the eyes. Applying experiences of meditation along with techniques of visual arts accomplish the metaphoric capturing of nature.