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Julie Kluss's Project Page |
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Teacher Intern: Julie Kluss
Mentor: Krystyna Brzezinska
Department: MRL |
2003 Research Project: Synthesis of Polypeptides Using Difunctional Initiators
Scientists in the Deming research group synthesize polypeptides having a wide
range of material applications (fibers, membranes, and coatings) and potential
biomedical uses, such as tissue engineering and drug delivery. To develop
polypeptides with predetermined properties, polymerization must be carefully
controlled to ensure that the resulting polymer is pure and of a desired
molecular weight. Controlled polymerization is activated by an “initiator”
molecule which reacts with a monomer unit to begin the reaction. The reaction
between the initiator and monomer creates an “activated center” which is passed
to each successive monomer joining the chain during polymerization. Researchers
in the Polymer Characterization Lab identify initiators which are effective in
activating polymerization, and then characterize the polypeptides produced.
The purpose of my research was to test the effectiveness of three initiator
molecules in polymerizing a monomer called Glu-NCA. Under Dr. Brzezinska’s
guidance, I prepared the series of reactions by mixing Glu-NCA, initiator, and
solvent together in a “drybox” - an enclosed nitrogenous chamber which is oxygen
and water-free. The resulting polypeptides were analyzed using a GPC
(Gel Permeation Chromotography) light scattering detector, which calculates the
average number of molecules in the polymer and how they are distributed. My
results showed that the initiators were effective in activating polymerization
in Glu-NCA. Next step: to find out if the initiators we used are “difunctional”
– can polymerize in two directions at once!
Download Research Project as a pdf file
2004 Curriculum Project: Incorporating Procedures to Improve Student Learning
Classroom management and monitoring strategies are essential for creating a
productive learning environment and maximizing student achievement. A quiet,
orderly, and efficient working environment increases on-task time and improves
motivation, concept mastery, and performance. General classroom routines and
rules should be the first skills implemented in every classroom. In addition,
procedures for group work must be established BEFORE students begin interactive
activities. This project focuses on procedures, routines, and rules/consequences
important to an efficiently run classroom. Typical life science activities are
presented along with suggested procedures, grouping management tips, and
monitoring techniques important for effective learning.
The activities presented in this project focus on 7th grade level; however, the
management techniques may be used at any grade level. Most activities take
between 1-3 days. (All are part of larger units, however.) The science content
standards covered include Cell Biology (1a, 1b, 1c, 1d, 1e);
Genetics (2, 2b, 2c, 2d, 2e); Earth and Life History (4, 4c, 4d, 4f);
Investigation (7, 7a, 7b, 7c, 7d, 7e).
Download Curriculum Project
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