Sample Research Topics
Seaver College is set apart from its peer institutions by the emphasis we place on undergraduate research. From mechanical engineering to the life sciences, the work of Seaver students has earned distinction at conferences, competitions and in journals. Below are several examples of projects our students have performed with the guidance of the faculty.
 |
|
The Dependence of Hydrocarbon Concentrations on Sampling Protocol |
Sampling protocol was found to have a significant influence on hydrocarbon concentrations in ambient air samples. Samples were collected in Los Angeles on eight different sampling days throughout 2007-2008 following the varying protocols of four different, well-cited, U.S. urban hydrocarbon studies. Samples were collected in 2-liter stainless steel canisters and analyzed using GC-FID (gas chromatography with flame ionization detectors).
Continue Reading
|
|
 |
|
Photosensitized Oxidation of G-Quadruplex Conformations of Guanine Derivatives |
Our genetic information is protected by single-stranded, Guanine-rich DNA called telomeres. These telomeres shorten with each cell division until a critical length is reached, whereby cells enter senescence and die. Telomeres naturally fold into G-quadruplex structures in vivo and are believed to be a main target of oxidative stress. This oxidative degradation of telomeres caused by reactive oxygen species (ROS) is purported to play a major role in telomere shortening. Understanding the mechanisms by which telomeres are degraded will shed insight into cell and organismal senscence.
Continue Reading
|
|
 |
|
Investigating New Variables in Exercise and Strength Training (I.N.V.E.S.T.) |
Elastic bands added to traditional free weight techniques have become a part of suggested training routines focusing on improvements in muscular strength and power production in recent years. Because of the variable loading patterns of elastic bands (i.e. greater stretch produces greater resistance) it has become necessary to quantify the exact loading patterns of bands. This information could then be used to properly prescribe intensity, work, and volume incurred by individuals of varying limb lengths performing squats (SQ) and bench presses (BP).
Continue Reading
|
|
 |
|
Fingerprinting Space Storms Using Dynamic Wave Power Spectra
|
As we increasingly depend on satellite technology in our everyday lives, understanding space weather is of critical importance to our national interests. Magnetic storms in the Earth’s space environment often occur following periods of intense solar activity. Some, but not all, of these storms are accompanied by a rapid enhancement in the population of very energetic electrons that travel at near-relativistic speeds.
Continue Reading
|
|
 |
|
Shell Eco-marathon Competition Vehicle Design Project |
A team of mechanical engineering students designed and manufactured a vehicle that was entered into the 2008 Shell Eco-marathon Competition. The goal of the competition is to design and build a vehicle that gets the highest fuel efficiency. The 2008 LMU team placed 15th out of 29 entries with a fuel efficiency of 313.4mpg.
Continue Reading
|
|
|
|
|
|
|