Barbara Yasson Research Award

Permanent link for this collectionhttps://hdl.handle.net/2022/33413

This award recognizes outstanding undergraduate research completed in courses which are part of the ASURE Program. Winning projects will incorporate a substantial research component with multiple, high-quality sources of information from both IU Libraries and open scholarship collections. This award, which started in 2024, is the result of a generous gift from Barbara Yasson.

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Now showing 1 - 13 of 13

Formal Logic and Model Checking Framework for Automated Security Verification in Distributed Systems
(2026-04-14) S. S., Karthikhesvaran
Contemporary cloud services, Internet of Things (IoT) platforms, and critical infrastructure are based on distributed systems, where security must be ensured first. Because of concurrency, partial failures, and asynchronous communication, ensuring security properties is insufficient and prone to error due to manual analysis or testing. The methods of security verification are not rigorous, scalable, or automatable in complex distributed environments. Simulation-based and informal reasoning cannot be relied on to be exhaustive in capturing less obvious attack vectors. It includes race-condition exploits, privilege escalation, and protocol inconsistencies across distributed nodes. The paper will introduce a new verification architecture, LAVAS (Logic-Aware Verification for Adaptive Security), that combines formal logic specifications and automated model checking for overcoming all concerns. Temporal-epistemic logic is used to articulate security requirements that reflect the system's evolution and the distribution of knowledge among system agents. LAVAS builds an abstract system model based on state-transition graphs and employs optimized symbolic model checking, pruning the state during verification of confidentiality, structural, and availability properties under adversarial conditions. An experimental analysis of representative distributed protocols has shown that the LAVAS verification architecture achieved 0.94 verification accuracy and 0.91 attack detection rate. It scaled to 0.88 and reduced the state space by 62%. The average verification time was 38.6 seconds, the false-positive rate was 0.08, the pruning efficiency was 0.54, and the overall efficiency was 0.89. Then the traditional verification technique, with up to 28% higher efficiency. The proposed model is a scalable, automated, and rigorous security-checking mechanism for distributed systems that eliminates prior vulnerabilities in designs.
Investigating the Relationship Between Gender Identity, Race, and Attitude Towards Whether or Not the Death Penalty Brings Victims’ Families Closure
(2026-03-09) Hwang, Savannah
This study explores individuals’ attitudes towards whether or not the death penalty brings victims’ families closure based on gender identity and race. The death penalty has long been a controversial topic in both America and internationally. When considering arguments for and against practicing capital punishment, the intent behind the punishment of the death penalty comes into question. One such intent that supporters of the death penalty provide is that the death penalty brings victims’ families a sense of closure; however, those in opposition to the death penalty often argue that this is not necessarily true. Thus, gauging people’s opinion on this topic based on gender identity and race can provide lawmakers with guidance on how to approach this facet of the death penalty. In this study, my peers and I set about exploring these attitudes by developing a questionnaire about the death penalty that included a question in which people selected a response ranging from “Strongly disagree” to “Strongly agree” that best aligns with their stance on the statement, “The death penalty brings CLOSURE to victims’ families.” The survey was then shared via a QR code linked to the document, which was put up around Indiana University Bloomington’s campus. The survey was also shared via link on social media (Instagram) and text message. The results of the questionnaire found no significant difference among attitudes towards the statement based on race, but when categorized by gender identity, there were statistically significant differences in responses across different gender identity categories. A majority of respondents of all races tended to agree that the death penalty brings closure to victims’ families. Similarly, a majority of females tended to agree with the statement, but males and individuals of other gender identities were more varied among their responses. This paper will provide further exploration of the background of research on attitudes towards the death penalty, methodology for this study, and analysis of this study’s results.
Synthesis and Analysis of Novel Sulfonamide Inhibitors in Vibrio campbellii
(2026-02-26) Schmuck, Rylee; Demou, Scarlett; Kasanowsky, Olivia; Bultman, Macy; Uwase, Fides; Visuthduangdusd, Techin; Alcock, Sabina; Aloys, Karim; Malka, Danielle; van Kessel, Dr. Julia; Brown, Dr. Laura
The growing issue of antibiotic resistance presents an urgent need for additional therapeutic measures that can serve as a complement to antibiotics when treating bacterial infections. A notable strategy is to disrupt bacteria’s ability to communicate with one another and express phenotypic group behaviors, which is a process known as quorum sensing. By regulating the virulence and pathogenicity of many bacterial species, including Vibrio campbellii, bacterial infections can be fought effectively without furthering the body’s resistance to antibiotics. This study aimed to identify inhibitors of the master-regulator of quorum sensing, known as LuxR. A vast library of compounds was carefully assayed to determine their efficacy at inhibiting LuxR. IC50 values were calculated to assess inhibitory potency, and seven compounds, including 32C and 32M, produced favorable inhibitory results with low IC50 values. In silico docking studies using Webina and ChimeraX confirmed that the many effective inhibitors bound within the LuxR ligand-binding pocket with favorable, negative binding affinities. Many successful compounds had similar structures, including methyl groups and sulfonyl chloride groups. This indicates these structures are critical for LuxR binding. Our findings support the potential of LuxR-targeted quorum sensing inhibitors as complementary agents to traditional antibiotics, offering a promising future toward reducing bacterial virulence and combatting antibiotic resistance.
Generating Biosensors with Fluorescent Proteins in E. coli
(2025-12-16) Tran, Caila; Landeta, Christina Dr.
The ASURE BIOT-X150 laboratory course works through the process of generating a better redox fluorescent biosensor in Escherichia coli. Biosensors are devices designed to detect specific chemical signals and produce a measurable response. Fluorescent biosensors placed in the periplasm of E. coli can detect redox reactions by emitting fluorescence. The redox environment of the periplasm is linked to bacterial pathogenesis, so these biosensors could aid in the discovery of antibiotics. However, previous biosensors have faced limitations restricting their effectiveness. Our objective is to develop a biosensor that overcomes these limitations. We will incorporate the fluorescent protein mEYFP into a biosensor and introduce it into the periplasm of E. coli. The fluorescence output of each plasmid will then be measured and analyzed to assess the efficiency of the newly engineered biosensor. Hopefully, we will be able to achieve the goals of the objective.
Using Fluorescent Proteins as Biosensors for Escherichia coli
(2025-09-12) Outcalt, Avery; Landeta, Cristina Dr.
During this ASURE research lab, we use biosensors to detect if disulfide bonds are being formed in the periplasm of Escherichia coli. Although red fluorescent proteins have already been proven to have high levels of fluorescence, this study focuses on optimizing mKeima as a biosensor by increasing fluorescence intensity and improving sensitivity in the bacterial periplasm where disulfide bonds are formed.
Investigating Inhibitors Against Quorum Sensing Group Behaviors in V. Vulnificus
(2025-08-26) Armstrong, Elise; Langston, Annalise; Kasanowsky, Olivia; Brown, Laura Dr.; van Kessel, Julia Dr.; McGuire, Maygan
The gradual development of superbugs has led to more and more problems when fighting infections. Finding ways to prevent group behaviors and decrease virulence possibly offers a path for fighting infection without adding to antibiotic resistance. This study found several new inhibitors that prevent activity from the transcription factor SmcR, which is what activates group behaviors caused by quorum sensing in V. vulnificus. These inhibitors 32A, 32C, and 18C are more effective than previously found inhibitors for LuxR homologs. Through these findings, structural patterns between inhibitors emerge. Assay data and docking studies were used for these findings. This information is used to propose new compounds for future testing of their inhibitory effectiveness against SmcR.
Personal, Social, and Historical Applications of the Family Photo Archive
(2025-08-11) Pearce, Emma
Family photographs can aid in memory recall and have personal value, but the historical and social information that can be found in them is just as invaluable.
Fluorescent Proteins As A More Quantifiable Approach Than Chromogenic Redox Biosensors
(2025-08-08) Buchner, Hannah
A biosensor is a tool/device that has the ability to detect for a specific biological or chemical substance. Fluorescent biosensors are harnessed in relation to Escherichia coli bacteria so as to quantify the presence of redox reactions via the expression of fluorescence. Because the redox environment is linked to bacterial pathogenesis, this process will lead to the discovery of novel antibiotics combating bacteria. Existing biosensors in this area of study are associated with limitations that hinder their adaptability when applied to a wide variety of situations. So, the goal moving forward is to generate a biosensor that can overcome this obstacle. In order to execute this ideal, the fluorescent protein, mKate, will be developed as a biosensor and guided toward the periplasm of two variants of E. coli. Fluorescent outputs will be analyzed and employed to improve the newly constructed biosensor through directed evolution.
Applying Directed Evolution to Improve Gamillus Luminescent Biosensors
(2025-08-07) Bognar, Evan
With the ongoing battle against antibiotic resistance, scientists must find a way to develop improved treatments against bacterial infections as bacteria continues to quickly evolve. Many antibiotic and bacterial studies are conducted using bioluminescent proteins that can function as biosensors. These biosensors are crucial to the efficient and accurate detection of certain analytes in a solution. Our research resides in the improvement of these biosensors, specifically the Gamillus fluorescent protein. To improve these biosensors, we will be facilitating directed evolution onto the proteins and selecting for the optimal traits which we observe. With this approach, we will improve the sensitivity and specificity of these fluorescent biosensors.
The Unequal Trinity: The Photographer, The Audience, and The Woman
(2025-08-05) Loveland, Madison
Photography is commonly seen as the capturing of a moment in time as it occurs, but to truly understand the moment from all parts is to understand the relationship between the photographer, the audience, and the subject as the photograph is being taken. As novelist and art critic John Berger explains in his piece, Understanding A Photograph, “I have said that a photograph bears witness to a human choice being exercised. This choice is not between photographing X and Y, but between photographing X moment at Y moment.” (3) The “moment” he mentions is the dynamic interaction between the photographer and the subject, and what comes from that is the interpretation of the moment by the audience. As monotonous and simple as this process may seem, what is little considered is the intentions behind each part of the photographic trifecta.While the photographer may intend to show a scene in time, the audience might intend to consume the photograph with bias or expectation, all the while the subject may feel either empowered or exploited. With a focus on the subject specifically being a woman, how does the interaction between each part change or differ between the production, consumption, and interpretation of the photograph? Why is it that in the previous quote by Sylvia Plath from her book The Bell Jar, the audience and the photographer answer so confidently about what the subject wants? Through an in depth analysis of the relationship between the photographer, the audience, and the subject as a woman, this essay is meant to propose that the importance of understanding photography lies within the intention of the photographer, the expectation of the audience, and the emotional connection with the female subject.
EFFECTS OF TEMPERATURE AND AN IMMUNE RESPONSE ON THE EGG QUALITY OF TROPICAL HOUSE CRICKETS (GRYLLODES SIGILLATUS)
(2025-08-05) Sigmund, Charlotte; Hastings, Kyla
Climate change is becoming a growing concern as it contributes to temperature fluctuations and increase in pathogen prevalence. Temperature fluctuations can raise an organism’s internal body temperature and alter their physiological responses. For many thermosensitive species, the smallest change in temperature can have great influence on their behavior. Similarly, pathogen exposure can alter an organism’s behavior as they are experiencing an immune response and may have to reallocate energy to increase chances of survival. To explore the relationship between climate change and pathogen exposure, tropical Gryllodes Sigillatus female crickets were exposed to temperature variations (25℃, 31℃) and lipopolysaccharides (LPS) derived from Serratia marcescens (3.5 micrograms/microliter or 5.0 micrograms/microliter). We focused on how temperature fluctuations and pathogen exposure influenced reproductive behavior. Our results revealed that a warmer temperature variation reduced egg production and protein content. While both temperature changes led to reductions in egg production and protein content, only the warmer temperature produced statistically significant decreases in both measures when compared to the control temperature. LPS treatment variations revealed no statistical significance when compared to the frozen control. Our data supports the trade-off hypothesis, showing that female crickets will reallocate resources to increase their survival at the expense of reproductive effort when under stress. This study emphasizes the complex interactions between environmental stressors and reproductive behavior in thermosensitive species and underscores the need for further research on how climate change and pathogen exposure may impact other tropical organisms behavior.
A Mathematician’s Take on Ethnomusicology Modeling of Protest Music Transmission and Cultural Memory using Stochastic Partial Differential Equations and Non-Linear Dynamics
(2025) S. S., Karthikhesvaran
Protest music functions both as artistic expression and as a vehicle for collective identity and memory in social movements. Songs born out of resistance often spread across communities and generations, helping to sustain the movements’ ideals and preserving historical memory of struggles. Understanding how protest songs propagate through space and time, and how they evolve within cultural contexts, calls for a rigorous framework that can capture dynamical and stochastic aspects of this diffusion. In this paper, I develop a theoretical framework using Stochastic Partial Differential Equations (SPDEs) and dynamical systems theory to model the transmission and evolution of protest music. This approach treats the spread of songs akin to a propagating wave or diffusive process on a cultural landscape, subject to nonlinear feedbacks (from social reinforcement) and random perturbations (due to unpredictable social events). I leverage concepts such as attractors, Lyapunov stability, bifurcation theory, stochastic resonance, and symbolic dynamics to analyze the model’s behavior. My goal is to reveal structural insights into how protest music contributes to sociopolitical movements and cultural memory, providing quantitative measures for phenomena that ethnomusicologists have observed qualitatively – e.g. the way songs “have work to do” in coordinating and unifying communities and how they serve as repositories of cultural memory . I begin by formulating a general SPDE model for the spatiotemporal transmission of protest songs. I then introduce relevant dynamical-systems definitions (attractors, stability, etc.) and analytical tools to study this model. Existing results from the literature on cultural and linguistic diffusion are incorporated to ground my approach: for example, prior works have used PDEs to model information or language spread in social systems . I adapt such methods to the domain of music and resistance. Formal propositions are stated to characterize the stability of musical traditions and the conditions for their persistence or extinction. Next, I apply the framework to a detailed case study – the role of contemporary Tamil protest music in preserving the legacy of the Tamil Eelam struggle – demonstrating how the abstract model can illuminate real-world cultural dynamics. Finally, I discuss how this mathematical formalism can advance ethnomusicology by offering predictive insight into music as a dynamic carrier of resistance, identity, and memory.
Youth Revival: The Reunification of Berlin Through the Emergence of Techno
(2025) Broach, Emma

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