Winston Allen, Environmental Studies
Nathaniel Brandt, Environmental Studies
Leif Ronnander, Environmental Studies
Jerilyn Jourdain, Environmental Studies

Abstract: Nano-and meso-size aggregates made of either bentonite and
starch or kaolin and starch can be, because of their large surface area per
unit mass and high sorption capacities, used as absorbents in the removal of
unwanted chemicals from aqueous environments. In this project magnetized
clay-starch aggregates will be prepared at different: i) Fe3+/Fe2+ ratios, and
ii) clay-starch ratios. Magnetite coated aggregates will be separated from
suspensions using a low power magnet. Magnetic separation has a potential
of being more efficient and selective in elimination of water and wastewater
pollution pollution than pollution elimination technologies that are currently
employed.

Abstract: Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans is one of the major
recognized oral pathogens and is known to be a causative agent of chronic
and aggressive periodontitis. Periodontal disease is especially related
to the consumption of sugars. This research examines the genetics of
Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans as it relates to biofilm adhesion. It
is hypothesized that this experimental process will find whether or not the
addition of various sugars enhances specific genes for biofilm adhesion. A.
actinomycetemcomitans was cultured in a liquid media of modified Tryptic
Soy Broth with additional sugars added. This culture is placed in a 5% CO2
atmosphere at an incubation temperature of 37˚C. Results are generated
using spectrophotometric readings, as well as Polymerase Chain Reaction
techniques. Results will indicate the possible effects of various sugars on the
development of A. actinomycetemcomitans biofilms.

Abstract:Aggregates containing clays and humic substances are found
nearly everywhere on the Earth. The aggregates are important in soil
and water chemistry because of their ability to both adsorb and transport
chemicals through the environment. The aggregates can be coated with
magnetite and then used as an inexpensive sorbent to eliminate polluting
materials from water. The aggregates will be prepared on different weight
ratios of humic substances and either bentonite or kaolin. The aggregates
will then be coated with magnetite. The goal of this project is optimize
magnetite coating of the aggregates and to find optimal humic acids – clay
ratio for magnetite formation. A low intensity magnet will be used to isolates
magnetite coated aggregates.