RSCA Presenter Directory
Actor-Critic Based Solutions for Scheduling Astronomical Observations
Session P1: Poster Session 1
Time: 10:00
Location: Ursa Major P1-15
Authors: Hasti Abbasi Kenarsari
Faculty Mentor(s): John Korah
Abstract:Efficiently scheduling the observation of celestial bodies is a critical optimization problem given the sheer number of astronomical observations available at a moment in time. This scenario can be cast as a variant of the Traveling Salesman Problem in combinatorial optimization (ASTRO-TSP), considering additional nuances such as specific observation windows, variable observation lengths, prioritization of distinct observations, and the numerous intricacies of telescope movement. Given the confounding effects of these additional complexities, there is a need to reconstruct existing TSP frameworks to consider unaccounted challenges. We propose an Actor-Critic based Reinforcement Learning approach dedicated to optimizing the scheduling of astronomical observations from the Palomar Observatory at the NASA Jet Propulsion Laboratory. The generalization of agent strategies, long-term reward maximization, and analyzation of initial state sequences make reinforcement learning an optimal framework given the dynamic characteristic of the problem environment. Actor-only methods utilize parameterized policies to estimate the gradient of performance according to actor parameters. New gradients are estimated as the policy changes to adhere to performance improvement. Given that they are curated independently of past estimates, the method lacks learning from previously consolidated information. Critic-only methods work towards an approximate solution to the Bellman equation by solely utilizing value function approximation. They lack parameters to optimize over a continuous policy space, making them unreliable in generating near-optimal resulting policies. The Actor-Critic framework combines these two categories of reinforcement learning, ultimately resulting in variance reduction, faster convergence, and versatility across diverse action spaces.
BANSHEE UAV
Session P2: Poster Session 2
Time: 1:00
Location: Ursa Major P2-51
Authors: Kai Arellano, Kyle Sakuda, Kaitlyn Cady, Juan Bosque, Sabah Abdelhameid
Faculty Mentor(s): Steven Dobbs
, Zhen Yu
Abstract:Battery As Integrated Structural High Endurance Experimental Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (BANSHEE UAV) is an undergraduate research project that focuses on giving students an opportunity to apply classroom learning to hands-on engineering processes. The project is interdisciplinary with students working on many different sub-disciplines such as aerodynamics, communications, manufacturing, flight testing, robotics, and more. BANSHEE UAV aims to give students additional skills outside of their regular course curriculum by offering workshops, seminars with guest speakers from industry and academia, and training to students. These workshops cover common engineering software or practices like computer aided design (CAD) software, soldering, computational fluid dynamic (CFD) programs, circuit construction, PCB design, and Arduino. They also cover more niche subjects like automated drone waypoint planning, mesh design, and remote control electronics. In addition, the project simulates industry practices and procedures. Students work together to accomplish the technical goal of increasing UAV flight endurance times using sustainable methods. Modern electric UAV technology falls far short for long range missions. Students having the chance to tackle a real world problem such as this are better prepared for applied engineering after graduation. The technical research includes in-flight solar recharging, robotic battery swapping, and aerodynamically efficient design. The project also offers opportunities to high school students with a strong interest in engineering. This is in the form of a summer robotics internship with ROBOTIS Inc. as well as participation during the school year alongside undergraduate students. Other industry partners, like Lockheed Martin and General Atomics, facilitate mentorship between professionals and students. This gives students insight into professional methods, design philosophies and expectations. BANSHEE UAV plans to improve the quality of its workshops and project experience by getting assistance from more industry partners, providing food during meetings, increasing advertising efforts, and by using student feedback to make future improvements.
Session ON12: Engineering and Computer Science
Time: 2:45
Location: Orion A
Authors: Johnny Acuna, Raymond Palacio, Brandon Siu, Brian Garcia
Faculty Mentor(s): Mohamed Aly
Abstract:The system proposed in this paper is a technology capable of matching a human face from a digital image or a video frame against a collection of known faces to find a match. The technology behind this is Facial Recognition, which is a contemporary security solution which automatically monitors, authenticates and identifies an individual’s identity from these digital elements. This project will evaluate the performance between an x86 laptop with AMD Ryzen 7 5800H processor, a desktop with an Intel i7 13700k with a RTX 3080, and a ARM based architecture, the Raspberry Pi 4 a single-board computer. Both of these architectures will use software written programs in Python language and Software Development Kit integration. This project’s program is then executed in each architecture respectively while python scripts and software are used to record the time it takes to verify within a video frame. This implementation is made possible with Computer Vision techniques using OpenCV Library version 4.10.0.84 with the Raspberry Pi 4 and interfacing with various tools such as a laptop webcam, database local storage device (SSD), standardized digital image formats such as JPEG or PNG for image storage, and use case verification confirming an individual's identity such as their name. This project’s evaluation of metrics will rely on active surveillance video and compare a database containing digital images to verify a person’s identity. This project has met all objectives derived with optimized system performance and accuracy for the specific use case and environment. This project is considered successful and ready to be launched in the real system implementation.
Mathematical Deception: Exploring Sophisms in Convergence
Session P2: Poster Session 2
Time: 1:00
Location: Ursa Major P2-36
Authors: Luis Aguilar Chachagua, Ben Le, Ariana Escalante, Fabricio Quinteros
Faculty Mentor(s): Fernando Lopez-Garcia
Abstract:This poster explores the concepts of pointwise and uniform convergence in mathematical analysis through the lens of sophisms, or logical fallacies. It is the result of a collaborative course between California State Polytechnic University, Pomona, and Universidad Nacional de General Sarmiento in Argentina, where students from both institutions engaged in discussions covering various aspects of mathematical analysis. We illustrate how misconceptions in mathematical reasoning can emerge, particularly in the interchangeability of limits and integrals. One specific sophism we examined explores how a square with side lengths of one can seemingly have an area different from one. This work highlights the value of combining mathematical problem solving with cultural exchange, including perspectives from different academic backgrounds while reinforcing foundational mathematical principles.
Government interventions of MPOX and implications of higher institutions
Session P2: Poster Session 2
Time: 1:00
Location: Ursa Major P2-54
Authors: Isaac Aguirre
Faculty Mentor(s): Ever Barraza
Abstract:
Revolutionizing Telehealth: The Transformative Impact of AI-Powered Medical Chatbots on Patient Care
Session P2: Poster Session 2
Time: 1:00
Location: Ursa Major P2-16
Authors: Lisa Luiten, Yu-hsi Chou, Chenwei Kao, Rishabh Aji, Yuan Jr Yang, Md Mahmoudul Hasan, Rose Roldan
Faculty Mentor(s): Mehrdad Koohikamali
Abstract:The need to get medical advice and attention has been rising since the availability of the Internet. During the Covid-19 pandemic, telehealth utilization has exponentially raised at 38 times higher than it was before the pandemic. To aid this growing demand, chatbots have become a common method used in telemedicine. The availability of textual information in patient communications and their health records provides a unique opportunity to improve healthcare quality. Artificial Intelligence (AI) in telehealth enhances remote patient-doctor interaction by improving accessibility, diagnostic accuracy, and automated medical summaries. The main objective of this study is to investigate medical chatbots and identify the main patterns in remote medical communications and medical chatbot responses by using large language models (LLMs). Our research involves analyzing real conversations produced by patients with responses from real doctors, a medical chat GPT, and a chatbot. This study utilizes advanced natural language processing (NLP) techniques, such as large language models, to analyze effective and contextually appropriate communication between patients, doctors, and chatbots during remote consultations. There are multiple analytical objectives being researched, some of which include: identifying challenges in communication, identifying diagnostic markers, investigating and summarizing unstructured text, and pairing symptom descriptions to diagnosis. The findings of this study can be used to help healthcare companies improve their AI-driven telehealth solutions and thus offer reliable telehealth solutions, enhancing the quality of healthcare services. Our study further explores how AI-driven chatbots can mitigate communication gaps, streamline clinical workflows, foster trust, and reduce diagnostic delays in telehealth ecosystems.
Session ON11: Engineering and Computer Science
Time: 1:45
Location: England Evans
Authors: Dawson Graf, Antonuos Kerollos, Jared Alanis, Jaziel Viera
Faculty Mentor(s): Mohamed El-Hadedy
Abstract:This project presents a lightweight and secure bi-directional communication framework designed for constrained environments, with a focus on establishing reliable communication between a Raspberry Pi server and a PC client. The framework ensures end-to-end security by leveraging modern cryptographic techniques, including X25519 for key exchange, Ed25519 for digital signatures, and Ascon AEAD for symmetric encryption. These protocols provide message confidentiality, integrity, authentication, and forward secrecy while maintaining high performance in low-power systems. Implemented in Rust, the solution benefits from memory safety without the overhead of a garbage collector, enabling efficient and secure real-time messaging. Key use cases include secure IoT communications, privacy-focused messaging systems, and lightweight embedded applications. Potential enhancements such as mutual authentication and session key rotation are also explored to strengthen the system's robustness. This work highlights the practical application of modern cryptographic standards to address the growing need for secure and efficient communication in resource-constrained environments.
Understanding the Genetic and Molecular Changes in Carpels Pre- and Post-Pollination in Aquilegia
Session P2: Poster Session 2
Time: 1:00
Location: Ursa Major P2-38
Authors: Ana Alcaraz Echeveste, Rene Romo, Marianellie Bravo, Christian Suarez
Faculty Mentor(s): Bharti Sharma
Abstract:Carpels bear the female reproductive organs of plants. Matured and fertilized carpels form fruit, and ovules develop into seeds. For the continuity of a plant species, timely pollination and fertilization are essential to ensure a successful seed set. Fruit development is a key process and has an immense economic impact on agricultural and horticultural crops. Despite carpels being the most crucial organs in plants that produce seeds, studies in horticultural crops that determine the genetic control of ovary, ovule, and seed development are rare. In the proposed study, we seek to unravel the genetic and molecular bases of carpel development using Aquilgea coerulea as a model system. Aquilegia, commonly known as columbine, is a popular horticultural plant and a native of California. We have deployed developmental, molecular, and transcriptomic approaches to understand the genetic networks underlying seed formation. This study has identified crucial candidate genes that influence carpel and ovule development using RNA sequencing and differential gene expression analysis conducted on carpels from three developmental stages. The outcome of this research provides valuable data to better understand the genetic changes that undergo carpels pre- and post-fertilization.
Understanding the development and genetic underpinnings of complex flowers of Delphinium
Session ON7: Biological and Agricultural Sciences
Time: 10:45
Location: Centarus
Authors: Ana Alcaraz Echeveste, Christian Suarez
Faculty Mentor(s): Bharti Sharma
Abstract:Most information on the genetic networks underlying floral organ identity establishment is from studies conducted on species within the core eudicots or in grasses, primarily on model systems such as Arabidopsis thaliana and Oryza sativa. While this provides a great foundation to understand the genetic pathways broadly, it is imperative to dig deeper and sample across angiosperm phylogeny to understand the genetic underpinnings of specialized and complex floral organs. To this end, we use Delphinium X "Bellamosum," a basal eudicot, a member of the Ranunculaceae family, as our model system. The zygomorphic flowers of Delphinium are composed of two distinct types of sepals and two types of petals. Sepals and petals with spurs and without spurs. The intricacies of these flowers are further exhibited by the paired dorsal petal spurs, which collectively grow into the outer sepal spur's pocket. The unique floral architecture of Delphinium makes it an interesting model system for evolutionary, genetic, and developmental studies. The aims of our study are 1) To understand the development, cell type, and expansion of perianth organs using light and Scanning Electron Micrography. 2) Use RNA-sequencing to understand the gene expression dynamics of sepals and petals. The comprehensive developmental analysis results for aim one show strikingly distinct cell types in the perianth organs. The evolution of such a complexity might be associated with pollination syndrome. For aim two, the extraction of RNA from sampled floral organs was standardized, and RNA libraries for 6-9 biological replicates were sequenced. A reference transcriptome was generated. The differential gene analysis is being conducted on floral organs to identify the potential candidate genes underlying the complex floral organ identity of Delphinium.
In Situ Ruminal Degradation of Earmuffs
Session P1: Poster Session 1
Time: 10:00
Location: Ursa Major P1-2
Authors: Chloe Alchin, Hailey Malinovsky
Faculty Mentor(s): Hyungchul Han
Abstract:Due to cold temperatures in Montana, calves born in early spring often lose their pinnae due to frostbite. This results in reduced animal performance and economic damage, as calves cannot receive ear identification tags. To prevent this issue, producers often use ear coverings. However, cows typically remove and ingest these coverings. This project evaluates the degradation of different yarn materials, including cotton, acrylic, hemp, and wool in the rumen to minimize digestive harm for cows ingesting these coverings. For each of three experimental trials, two squares of each material, one knit and one crochet, were inserted via mesh bags into the rumen of a fistulated cow for 12, 24, 48, and 72 hours. A control trial of 0 hours was also conducted. After this period, the samples were rinsed and dried before degradation was evaluated with the use of a tensile tension machine. Each square was unraveled and braids consisting of 6 strands were constructed. Testing showed a negative relationship between amount of time the material spent in the rumen and break load. Upon graphing, cotton and hemp were shown to degrade the fastest in the rumen over 72 hours. For all materials, the crochet break load was lower than knit. As knitted hemp had the lowest break load after 72 hours, 36.85 lbf compared to cotton's 59.65 lbf, this study suggests that knitted hemp is the safest material to construct calf ear coverings, as it degrades quickly, thus causing minimal digestive problems.
Application of Wood Biochar as a Sustainable Cementitious Replacement in Concrete Masonry Units
Session OC4: Engineering and Computer Science
Time: 9:15
Location: England Evans
Authors: Lukas Pohl, Alberto Laureano-Rumbo, Dominick Schlosser, Sebastian Alidio, Mason Bamberger, Jocelynn Gomez, Danyan Guan, Bianca Maranan
Faculty Mentor(s): Giuseppe Lomiento
, Nicole Elias
Abstract:Now responsible for 7% of global CO2 emissions, cement production has raised the need for research to explore sustainable alternatives that can control and mitigate the carbon dioxide generated by this industry. The partial replacement of Portland cement in concrete mixes with supplementary cementitious materials (SCMs) is one of the key approaches that can mitigate carbon dioxide emissions. This study explores the potential use of biochar, a carbon-rich material produced through pyrolysis of organic biomass, as an SCM capable of carbon sequestration. Previous research has highlighted some of the biochar effect on the relative mechanical and functional properties of concrete. This study presents an experimental and correlational analysis on concrete mix designs suitable for concrete masonry units (CMUs) incorporating pinewood biochar in partial replacements to cement from 4% to 20%. Laboratory testing on compressive and tensile strength, dry shrinkage, and absorption were performed to investigate the effects of the biochar on the mechanical and durability features of concrete. The results indicate that the increased replacement of cement by pinewood biochar reduced the concrete compressive strength and density while increased its drying shrinkage, suggesting that lower replacement dosages of biochar are preferred for improved performance. Despite the declining trend of such properties, results demonstrate accelerated curing rates in biochar mixes while also meeting and exceeding industry standards for density and strength ratings in industrial CMUs, supporting the prospect of having low-carbon infrastructure backed by a practical use of pinewood biochar as a building material.
The Smartphone Project
Session ON14: Physical, Mathematical Sciences, and Engineering
Time: 1:30
Location: Centarus
Authors: Russell Chung, Sunny Nguyen, Boi Hoanh Lam, Danny Tran, Izaiah Ortiz, Viren Kumar, Max Gross, Andy Zhang, Nathan Alquicira, Angelo Duenas
Faculty Mentor(s): Mohamed El-Hadedy
Abstract:a
Examining Differences in Race/Ethnicity and College Readiness: A Review of the Literature
Session P2: Poster Session 2
Time: 1:00
Location: Ursa Major P2-27
Authors: Iselle Alvarado
Faculty Mentor(s): Rachel Baumsteiger
Abstract:Conley (2007) defines college readiness as the level of preparation needed to enroll and succeed in credit-bearing general education courses at a baccalaureate-granting institution. Research indicates that only one-third of high school graduates nationwide are deemed "college-ready," with significantly lower rates for Black and Hispanic students (Moore et al., 2010). This literature review explores how race-related factors influence college preparedness, focusing on four key dimensions: definitions and measurements of readiness, disparities affecting marginalized populations, institutional contexts, and the effectiveness of interventions aimed at closing these gaps. Traditional measures of readiness, such as GPA, SAT/ACT scores, and placement tests, often fail to account for systemic inequities, such as socioeconomic status (SES) and access to rigorous coursework. Studies reveal that underrepresented minority (URM) students are disproportionately excluded from advanced academic opportunities, such as AP and IB programs, which serve as predictors of college success (Ketter & Hurst, 2017). Additionally, institutional environments significantly shape readiness outcomes. Minority-Serving Institutions (MSIs) foster URM success through tailored support systems, while Predominantly White Institutions (PWIs) may present challenges such as cultural isolation and lack of representation (Keels, 2013). This review highlights the need to redefine college readiness to incorporate social and contextual dimensions. It also underscores the importance of equitable access to resources and institutional support systems. Future research should examine the intersection of first-generation status and cultural support systems to develop more inclusive strategies for fostering college preparedness among URMs.
VR in the classroom: Opportunities for equity enhancement
Session P2: Poster Session 2
Time: 1:00
Location: Ursa Major P2-41
Authors: Aidan Jaekel, Iselle Alvarado, Paula Solorio, Millie Banegas, Mathieu Banh, Joanna Segura, Felipe Sanchez
Faculty Mentor(s): Juliana Fuqua
Abstract:Virtual Reality (VR) is a form of technology that offers benefits to educational and training environments. This study examined the incorporation of VR into an engineering laboratory course with the goal of investigating its impact on the educational process for students. During the spring semester of 2024, a mixed-method study (quantitative and qualitative) was conducted in an engineering thermal-fluids lab that introduced VR, at a four-year university. Two instructors each taught two sections (VR and control) of the same lab, with 16 students enrolled per section, totaling 64 students. Surveys were distributed and student focus groups were run by student research assistants to determine the advantages and challenges of using VR. Behavioral observation was also conducted during the VR lab. The results indicated that the implementation of VR provided students with a more equitable learning experience that allowed all students (not just a few) to run the lab, which could replicate a costly, or even hazardous real-world lab in a safe, affordable way. However, there was feedback from the participants that issues needed to be resolved with the VR lab, including technical issues, the time needed to learn the new technology, and a lack of collaborative skill-building. Some of these drawbacks can be mitigated with current technology, such as implementation of a lab that implements online learning tools and that can host multiple users to allow for collaboration. The feedback from participants provided possible improvements that could lead to more effective implementation of VR technology in the future.
Session ON11: Engineering and Computer Science
Time: 2:30
Location: England Evans
Authors: Michael Rosales, Aidan Ancheta, Logan Zimmerman
Faculty Mentor(s): Mohamed Aly
Abstract:This project explores the benchmarking of lightweight cryptographic algorithms, focusing on Ascon, TinyJAMBU, and Xoodyak, on a MicroBlaze softcore processor programmed on a Nexys Artix7-100T FPGA board. Lightweight cryptography is increasingly vital for IoT and embedded systems due to their constraints on resources and power consumption. The study evaluates the algorithms' performance using key metrics such as encryption and decryption time, throughput, and estimated power consumption, with optimization and without (-os). Each lightweight cryptographic algorithm was tested with five cases: edge test, functional, performance 1KB, 1MB. Results highlight Ascon’s efficiency for larger inputs, TinyJAMBU’s advantages for constrained environments, and Xoodyak’s balanced performance across scenarios. Challenges faced, including hardware implementation errors and suboptimal algorithm behaviors, are discussed, along with recommendations for further testing and optimizations to enhance the reliability of lightweight cryptographic systems in embedded environments.
BroncoStride: Single-legged, lower-limb robotic exoskeleton
Session P1: Poster Session 1
Time: 10:00
Location: Ursa Major P1-27
Authors: Erika Nicole Consebido, Andres Hernandez, Zoe Mae Andal, Emily Ruiz, Neelam Mistry, Adrien Chang, Khoa Le
Faculty Mentor(s): Benham Bahr
Abstract:Our project aims to develop a lower-body, single leg, robotic exoskeleton operated by electromyography (EMG) – measuring a muscle’s response through electrical activity. Our motivation for this project is deeply personal; we aim to develop a solution that will allow our groupmate’s father, suffering from diabetic neuropathy, to walk more comfortably. In doing so, our target audience includes those affected by diabetic neuropathy, those with mobility impairments due to injury or neurological disorders, and elderly individuals. Aiming for a more affordable solution than what’s currently on the market, our exoskeleton will be designed with adjustable levels of assistance, easing the pain of walking on some days while being used as additional support on others. We plan to implement machine learning to assist variable leg strength. It’s also important to note that our exoskeleton will not be exclusive to treatments, as is the case with current lower-body exoskeletons. Instead, it is being designed for daily assistance. This project will serve as a pilot study for further research into the design and adaptability of future lower body robotic exoskeletons.
Reporting on the Fidelity of an Equipment-Based Resistance Program for Older Adults: Adherence
Session ON9: Behavioral and Social Science
Time: 1:45
Location: Andromeda C
Authors: Lynn Horiguchi, Cody Antonio
Faculty Mentor(s): Lara Killick
, Zakkoyya Lewis-Trammell
Abstract:Within the US, people are experiencing longer life expectancy, yet these extended lifespans have not necessarily translated into years living in good health. Research shows that regular resistance exercise carries distinct health benefits for older adults. A growing body of literature explores interventions designed to engage older adults in resistance exercise. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the fidelity of an equipment-based resistance training program designed specifically for older adults. Five pillars of fidelity were measured. This presentation reports the findings from one of these, adherence. METHODS: The OYO program was delivered at one site, a local retirement community for 8 weeks, twice a week. Eleven participants registered for the program. Adherence to the OYO Manual was evaluated via session logs and session checklists. Participants signed the session log at the start of each session. Each session was video recorded. Two independent student researchers completed the session checklist remotely using the filmed footage. RESULTS: Descriptive statistics of the session logs and checklists suggests that the OYO Program demonstrated promising levels of adherence. Intercoder reliability levels will be reported. CONCLUSION: These findings indicate that the OYO Program successfully adhered to the OYO Manual at this site. Future research should explore additional sites to further assess the program’s impact.
Tesla Coil Drone
Session OC4: Engineering and Computer Science
Time: 9:45
Location: England Evans
Authors: Bianca Chavez, Crystal Cisneros, Willevaldo Quezada, Luis Antonio-Que, Sebastian Ledesma, Erick Menjivar, David Obah
Faculty Mentor(s): Mohamed El-Hadedy Aly
Abstract:The Trappist-1e project explores the use of Tesla coils to develop a drone-based wireless energy transfer system for NASA’s Artemis Mission. By generating and directing electromagnetic fields (EMF), Tesla coils enable drones to wirelessly transfer power, minimizing reliance on conventional batteries. This innovation supports extended mission durations and enhances flexibility in lunar exploration. Our system integrates advanced Tesla coil technology with autonomous drone capabilities, emphasizing efficient energy distribution. Achievements include designing a Tesla coil system, implementing a relay-based switching circuit to optimize power usage, and developing EMF shielding to protect sensitive electronics. Computer vision systems further enable drones to navigate and recharge autonomously. The project addresses key challenges of sustainable power delivery in extreme environments, targeting applications such as environmental monitoring, communication networks, and low-power robotic systems. By converting wireless EMF into usable power and optimizing its range and directionality, Trappist-1e advances energy solutions for remote operations. This work underscores the potential of wireless energy networks to transform lunar exploration by enabling efficient, scalable, and sustainable power systems, aligned with NASA’s vision for the Artemis Mission and beyond.
BANSHEE UAV
Session P2: Poster Session 2
Time: 1:00
Location: Ursa Major P2-51
Authors: Kai Arellano, Kyle Sakuda, Kaitlyn Cady, Juan Bosque, Sabah Abdelhameid
Faculty Mentor(s): Steven Dobbs
, Zhen Yu
Abstract:Battery As Integrated Structural High Endurance Experimental Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (BANSHEE UAV) is an undergraduate research project that focuses on giving students an opportunity to apply classroom learning to hands-on engineering processes. The project is interdisciplinary with students working on many different sub-disciplines such as aerodynamics, communications, manufacturing, flight testing, robotics, and more. BANSHEE UAV aims to give students additional skills outside of their regular course curriculum by offering workshops, seminars with guest speakers from industry and academia, and training to students. These workshops cover common engineering software or practices like computer aided design (CAD) software, soldering, computational fluid dynamic (CFD) programs, circuit construction, PCB design, and Arduino. They also cover more niche subjects like automated drone waypoint planning, mesh design, and remote control electronics. In addition, the project simulates industry practices and procedures. Students work together to accomplish the technical goal of increasing UAV flight endurance times using sustainable methods. Modern electric UAV technology falls far short for long range missions. Students having the chance to tackle a real world problem such as this are better prepared for applied engineering after graduation. The technical research includes in-flight solar recharging, robotic battery swapping, and aerodynamically efficient design. The project also offers opportunities to high school students with a strong interest in engineering. This is in the form of a summer robotics internship with ROBOTIS Inc. as well as participation during the school year alongside undergraduate students. Other industry partners, like Lockheed Martin and General Atomics, facilitate mentorship between professionals and students. This gives students insight into professional methods, design philosophies and expectations. BANSHEE UAV plans to improve the quality of its workshops and project experience by getting assistance from more industry partners, providing food during meetings, increasing advertising efforts, and by using student feedback to make future improvements.
Assessing the Effect of Orange and Grape Pomace Polyphenols on the Color Stabilization of Lutein-enriched Multilayer Emulsions
Session P2: Poster Session 2
Time: 1:00
Location: Ursa Major P2-22
Authors: Catrina Jozsa, Jocelyne Argueta
Faculty Mentor(s): Gabriel Davidov-Pardo
Abstract:Lutein is a carotenoid with a yellow-gold pigment that has been shown to prevent age-related macular degeneration, making it ideal for use as a natural colorant in functional foods. However, its poor water solubility and instability hinder its applications. Emulsion-based delivery systems can be used to improve solubility, and multilayer emulsions can enhance stability by coating oil droplets with oppositely charged emulsifiers. Polyphenols, such as resveratrol (RES) and hesperetin (HES), can bind to protein layers to prevent carotenoid oxidation. This study aims to assess the effect of encapsulating lutein in multilayer emulsions made by oppositely charged proteins with bound polyphenols. Polyphenol binding capacity to WPI and LF was assessed via spectrophotometry. Emulsion stability was evaluated through zeta potential, particle size and distribution, antioxidant activity (ABTS method), and color degradation. The ideal pH for multilayer formation was pH 7 with WPI as the primary layer for smaller, stable particles and 1% (w/w) LF as the secondary layer. Emulsions remained stable for three weeks, with a monomodal particle size distribution (339.09 ± 10 nm) and zeta potential (-14.33 ± 3 mV). LF showed 80% binding for HES at a concentration of 25ug/ml and WPI for RES at 100 ug/ml, optimizing these pairings. Both proteins showed enhanced radical scavenging when bound with polyphenols with WPI-RES increasing by 45.1% ± 10 and LF-HES by 8.3% ± 4. This research provides a strategy to enhance lutein stability and solubility, optimizing its application as a natural food colorant in functional foods.