[Bmegradstudents-list] [Bmeroundtable-list] Weekly Roundtable - December 4, 2023

[cid:image001.jpg@01DA2759.7651DCE0] BME WEEKLY ROUNDTABLE WEEK OF December 4, 2023 INTERIM HEAD’S NOTE Good luck on the quiet week. This is a friendly reminder on following the university policies during the Quiet Period: Quiet Period (New beginning Fall 2022) The “Quiet Period” occurs during the last Monday through Saturday (during the fall and spring terms), or the last three days (for 8-week terms), or the 1 day (in 3–4-week terms) of the instruction period preceding the final examination period. If you have an assessment(s) during the final examination period (e.g., final exams, projects, etc.), you cannot administer assessments during the Quiet Period that are worth any point value (grades) in the course. This rule does not apply to your course if there are no assessments during the final examination period. An assessment is defined as activities relating to the course’s learning objectives, which students submit for class credit that the course instructor intends to use to judge whether students have met the associated learning objectives. For a detailed outline of the quiet period, please see the Calendar section of the Academic Regulations<https://catalog.purdue.edu/content.php?catoid=15&navoid=18634#academic-year-and-calendar> for the academic year. For more information on the Quiet Period or to review the University Senate Document on this educational policy, click here<https://www.purdue.edu/senate/documents/meetings/Senate-Document-20-59-revised.pdf>. https://www.purdue.edu/innovativelearning/teaching/module/policies/ I want to congratulate the faculty who received external recognitions in 2023. As you know, external recognitions are critical to our school for moving up the ranking and our overall excellence. I attended part of the External Recognitions and New Faculty Welcome event last Friday. I saw a few dear colleagues there. I list them in the following in alphabetical order and include those with courtesy appointments in our school: External recognitions awarded: Charles Bouman, Brad Duerstock, Craig Goergen, Hector Gomez, Krishna Jayant, Tamara Kinzer-Ursem, Nan Kong, Jacqueline Linnes, Julie Liu, Kinam Park, J. Paul Robinson, Shreyas Sen, Vladimir Shalaev, Pavlos Vlachos, and Xiaoqian Joy Wang Most Impactful Inventors: 1. New CoE Faculty Member Startups based on Purdue IP Ramses Martinez, Chi Hwan Lee 1. Companies based on CoE Faculty IP that secured $500+ in External Funding. Mohit Verma, Hugh lee, Shreyas Sen 1. New License Signed with an Existing Company for CoE Faculty IP Young Kim, Hugh Lee, Chi Hwan Lee, Jackie Linnes 1. Issued US and non-US Patents from the CoE with a Corporate Partner Jackie Linnes Dear Colleagues, Congratulations! I apologize if I miss everyone in the above listings. UPCOMING IMPORTANT DATES Week of December 4 Mon., Dec. 4: BME PhD Defense Announcement for Conner C. Earl (C. Goergen, advisor). Everyone is invited to the public presentation beginning at 10:00am in MJIS 2001 or via Zoom. (10:00-11:00 am open portion, 11 am-12 pm closed portion)Title: Advanced Characterization of Cardiac Pathology Using 4D Medical Imaging. Wed., Dec. 6: BME Seminar Series, 9:30 a.m., MJIS 1001 or via Zoom. Diane Wagner, PhD, Department of Mechanical Engineering, IUPUI will present “Cartilage Injury Mechanotransduction and New Treatments to Prevent Post-Traumatic Osteorthritis.” Wed., Dec. 6: BME-IBSC PhD Preliminary Exam Announcement for Brock Beauclair (R. Shi, advisor). Everyone is invited to attend the public presentation beginning at 2:00PM in Morgan (MRGN) 129. Research Title: Establishing an in vitro Model of Blast Induced Traumatic Brain Injury Thurs., Dec. 7: BME PhD Preliminary Exam Announcement for Sang Hoon Um (L. Green, advisor). Everyone is invited to attend the public presentation beginning at 2:30PM in MJIS 2001. Title: Retooling the membrane channel with DNA nanostructure for simultaneous and precise voltage recording. Wed., Dec. 6: Advancing Discovery in Antimicrobial Resistance Seminar, 12:00 p.m., Purdue DRUG, Lobby Conference Room. Dr. Jean Chmielewski, Alice Watson Kramer Distinguished Professor of Chemistry and Professor of Biomedical Engineering will present “Stalking Elusive Pathogenic Bacteria: How to Dive into Cells to Treat Infections.” Thurs., Dec. 7: Seminars in Hearing Research, 12:00 noon, Nelson Hall, Room 1215. Alexander V. Galazyuk, Professor of Anatomy and Neurobiology, Northeast Ohio Medical University will present "Residual inhibition: From the mechanism to tinnitus treatment." MJIS ALERT As of Mon., Nov. 27: The Club Room on the 1st floor of MJIS will be CLOSED indefinitely. A recent inspection by REM revealed numerous sanitation issues (food debris, uncleaned appliances, evidence of mice, etc.). As this is a recurring problem, they have shut the room down until it can be deep cleaned with an assurance that it will be maintained to university standards in the future. Stay tuned. Any questions can be submitted to Susan Hardy (hardy13@purdue.edu) ACADEMIC PROGRAMS ALERT We are now more than halfway through the Fall term so here are some reminders as we round the corner to final grading: * This is the perfect time to ensure that your web certifications are current so you don’t get stuck during a deadline. FERPA, GLBA, Protecting SSNs, and Data Handling all must be current at the time of grade entry to prevent any roadblocks. * Final grading window https://www.purdue.edu/registrar/faculty/grading/index.html Full Term (16 Weeks) and Second Eight-Week Session (meeting between October 18 and December 16) Grade entry begins at 8 a.m. December 1 and ends at 5 p.m. December 19. Virtual Workshop Series on Mastering Grant Writing Tommy Sors, Director of Scientific Strategy and Relations, invites you to elevate your research potential by registering to be part of our exclusive workshop series, meticulously designed to guide you through the competitive landscape of NIH funding and the art of grant writing. Each session builds on the next, so you want to make sure to catch all sessions because they offer the knowledge and tools to craft winning proposals. Sessions will run on Thursdays from 2:00-3:00 p.m. November 30 – December 14 and Tuesdays 10:00-11:00 a.m. January 9-Feb. 13. Register at https://purdue.ca1.qualtrics.com/ife/form/SV_01WMuhATStggQOW<https://nam04.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fpurdue.ca1.qualtrics.com%2Fife%2Fform%2FSV_01WMuhATStggQOW&data=05%7C01%7Cbmeroundtable-list%40ecn.purdue.edu%7Cb3cdbbc595e1441f633308dbf59a8291%7C4130bd397c53419cb1e58758d6d63f21%7C0%7C0%7C638373816202007036%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&sdata=dJ80X%2BUGar0pjReZxTQtKzmGJba8N6QtBFqBF32qUpY%3D&reserved=0> GRADUATE PROGRAM UPDATE Three Minute Thesis Competition Nominate a graduate student to represent your academic unit! The Graduate School’s annual Three Minute Thesis competition is scheduled for April 9th! To increase academic representation in our 3MT® competition, we are asking that West Lafayette graduate faculty members nominate talented graduate student(s) to represent their academic units. Nominees must be current Purdue graduate students in the final stages of their research. Each nominee will be contacted by Graduate School staff and encouraged to register for the competition. Nominations are not required for students to submit a draft video; they are simply intended to help the Graduate School identify and encouraged talented students to participate. I have shared the link to the nomination form below, as well as some additional information about the Graduate School’s 3MT® competition. Please email me, Allison Loy (Loy2@purdue.edu<mailto:Loy2@purdue.edu>), with any questions! 3MT® 2024 Nomination Form<https://nam04.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fpurdue.ca1.qualtrics.com%2Fjfe%2Fform%2FSV_0HW7iBUEZyaGOCa%3F_ga%3D2.197924843.551982344.1700081267-654682909.1700081267&data=05%7C01%7Cbmeroundtable-list%40ecn.purdue.edu%7Cb3cdbbc595e1441f633308dbf59a8291%7C4130bd397c53419cb1e58758d6d63f21%7C0%7C0%7C638373816202007036%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&sdata=VjuHop9ZKUGy%2FRkpDDzVkwG%2BjklbX6rlapJ14jwWmNQ%3D&reserved=0>: * Nomination Deadline: January 15, 2024 What is 3MT®? Three Minute Thesis (3MT®) is a research communication competition that helps graduate students develop academic, presentation, and research communication skills so that they can effectively explain their research to a non-specialist audience. During each competition, graduate students will have three minutes to present a compelling discussion on their research topic, including its significance and relevance, to the public. This is a fast-paced competition where the top 10 finalists compete by summarizing their two to three-plus years of research in only three minutes with only one slide. The cash awards for this year’s competition are $5,000 for first place, $3,000 for second place, and $2,000 for the People’s Choice Award winner. The first-place winner will also be invited to compete in the Midwestern Association of Graduate School’s (MAGS) annual 3MT® competition. 3MT® Timeline * Friday, February 9: Draft Video Submission Deadline – Learn more about making a draft video!<https://www.purdue.edu/gradschool/professional-development/documents/Virtual_3MT_Competitors_Guide.pdf> * Friday, February 16: Semifinalists Announced * Friday, February 23: Semifinals – in person * Monday, February 26: Finalists Announced * Tuesday, April 9: Competition – in person Learn more about the Purdue University Graduate School’s 3MT® competition at the following URL: https://www.purdue.edu/gradschool/professional-development/competitions/3mt/... Thank you, Allison Loy (s/h) Loy2@purdue.edu Professional Development Events Coordinator Office of Graduate Professional Development The Graduate School Upcoming important deadlines and information Mon., Dec. 11: BME PhD Preliminary Exam Announcement for Grigorii Rudakov (T. Kinzer-Ursem and L. Green, co-advisors), 10:00 a.m., MJIS 1001. Title: “DNA Tetrahedron Design Optimization for Efficient Drug Delivery Through the Blood-Brain Barrier.” Tues., Dec. 12: BME PhD Preliminary Exam Announcement for YunWen (Darren) Chu (S. Pluta and K. Jayant, co-advisors) Everyone is invited to attend the public presentation beginning at 10:00am in MJIS 2001. Title: The neural representation of stimulus priority in the superior colliculus Tues., Dec. 12: BME PhD Preliminary Exam Announcement for Hayagreev Vadhiraj Sarma Keri (S. Pluta and K. Jayant, co-advisors). Everyone is invited to attend the public presentation beginning at 2:00 PM in MJIS 2001. TITLE: Cortical circuit mechanisms underlying the goal-directed flow of bilateral cues. Wed., Dec. 13: REGISTRATION NOW OPEN for Westwood Lecture, 4:30 p.m. Preeti Sivasankar, professor and head of the Department of Speech, Language, and Hearing Sciences, Professor of Biomedical Engineering, and assistant vice president for strategic health research in the Office of Research, will discuss “Can You Protect Your Voice? Physiological Investigations From Rats to Humans” at 4:30 p.m. on Dec. 13. Space is limited to the first 50 faculty who register online.<https://click.communicate.purdue.edu/?qs=18a52c9448786472ce2236858bb10d7a64f39f826757c6011c4c42f39c40d31df591de2be4669e229e732cd3cdbd84f058acab93367eea75e3e5e93384ea2299> Thurs., Dec. 14: SAVE THE DATE: 2023 Senior Design Projects Expo and Awards Ceremony, 3:30-5:30 p.m., MJIS. Please mark your calendars and plan to join us to celebrate the achievements of our 2023 senior design teams. The expo will highlight 30 innovative engineering solutions, followed by a live awards ceremony. Wed., Dec. 20: BME PhD Preliminary Exam Announcement for Eugene S. Kim (T. Kinzer-Ursem, advisor). Everyone is invited to attend the public presentation beginning at 10:00 AM in MJIS 2001. Title: The Role of CaMKIIβ-DrebrinA Binding in F-actin Stabilization in Dendritic Spines. Fri., Dec. 22 – Mon., Jan. 1: Purdue University Winter Recess. All university offices and buildings will be CLOSED. We will reopen for “business as usual” on Tuesday, January 2nd. Wed., Jan. 10: BME Distinguished Seminar Series, 9:30 a.m., MRGN 121 (NOTE LOCATION CHANGE) or via zoom. Jason W. Allen, MD, PhD, FACR, Eugene C. Klatte Professor and Chair of Department of Radiology and Imaging Sciences, Indiana University School of Medicine will present “Cryptogenic Strokes Unveiled by Biomedical Engineering Approaches.” Mon., Jan. 15: Nomination Deadline for Three Minute Thesis Competition. See full article for details. The actual competition will occur on Tuesday, April 9th. Tues., Jan. 23: Purdue Engineering Distinguished Lecture Series. Yannis C. Yortsos, Dean of Biterbi School of Engineering, Zohrab Kaprielian Dean’s Chair in Engineering, University of Southern California will present “The Intertwining of Engineering with Social Phenomena.” This seminar is hosted by the College of Engineering, and Davidson School of Chemical Engineering. Register at bit.ly/pedls-yortsos Wed., Feb. 21: Purdue Engineering Distinguished Lecture Series. Russell Allgor, Vice President and Chief Scientist, Worlwide Operations at Amazon.com will present “Logistics and Fulfillment Systems for E-Commerce.” This seminar is hosted by the College of Engineering, and School of Industrial Engineering. Register at bit.ly/pedls-allgor Fri., March 1: Indiana Human-Centered Design for Health Seminar Series, 12:00 p.m. via Zoom. Lean about research and best practices in HCD and health, promote the diverse HCD expertise in Indiana, and build a community of HCD researchers and practitioners focused on health, in Indiana and beyond. The speaker will be Andrew Miller, Associate Professor and Chair, Department of Hunan-Centered Computing, IUPUI. Register and learn about upcoming seminars at healthtechquitylab.org/hcd-seminar Wed., March 6: Purdue Engineering Distinguished Lecture Series. Karen Willcox, Director, Oden Institute for Computational Engineering and Sciences, Associate Vice President for Research, and Professor of Aerospace Engineering and Engineering Mechanics, The University of Texas at Austin will present “From Reduced-Order Modeling to Scientific Machine Learning: How Computational Science is Enabling the Design of Next-Generation Engineering Systems.” This seminar is hosted by the College of Engineering, and School of Mechanical Engineering. Register at bit.ly/pedls-willcox Wed., April 10: Purdue Engineering Distinguished Lecture Series. Jeffrey Dean, Google Senior Fellow and SVP of Google Research and Google Health, Google Research will present “Machine Learning, AI and Applications of AI.” This seminar is hosted by the College of Engineering, and Elmore Family School of Electrical and Computer Engineering. Register at bit.ly/pedls-dean Fri., June 7: Indiana Human-Centered Design for Health Seminar Series, 12:00 p.m. via Zoom. Lean about research and best practices in HCD and health, promote the diverse HCD expertise in Indiana, and build a community of HCD researchers and practitioners focused on health, in Indiana and beyond. The speaker will be Youngbok Hon, Professor, Herron School of Art and Design, IUPUI. Register and learn about upcoming seminars at healthtechquitylab.org/hcd-seminar Resources and further information Mon., Dec. 4: BME PhD Defense Announcement for Conner C. Earl (C. Goergen, advisor). Everyone is invited to the public presentation beginning at 10:00am in MJIS 2001 or via Zoom. (10:00-11:00 am open portion, 11 am-12 pm closed portion)Title: Advanced Characterization of Cardiac Pathology Using 4D Medical Imaging. Thesis committee: Dr. Craig J. Goergen (Chair), Dr. Guang Lin, Dr. Vitaliy L. Rayz, Dr. Larry W. Markham, Dr. Jonathan H. Soslow Abstract: Cardiovascular disease remains the leading cause of death worldwide, highlighting the importance of improving cardiac imaging for early disease detection and treatment. While 3D and 4D imaging methods offer enhanced precision, their complexity necessitates accessible applications in research and clinical settings. This thesis introduces an advanced 4D kinematic analysis to evaluate Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) cardiomyopathy, a progressive neuromuscular disorder with no cure, affecting approximately 1 in 5000 boys. Despite varied progression, the lack of standard imaging biomarkers impedes early detection or rapid-progressing DMD cardiomyopathy. Our novel 4D cardiac magnetic resonance imaging (CMR) analysis paradigm aims to comprehensively map left-ventricular kinematics, introducing innovative imaging biomarkers and computational methods for earlier and more accurate diagnosis of DMD. Our focus on myocardial strain biomarkers provides insights into early disease onset and progression, paving the way for multi-center studies to enhance treatment outcomes. Zoom link: https://purdue-edu.zoom.us/j/91371610129<https://nam04.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fpurdue-edu.zoom.us%2Fj%2F91371610129&data=05%7C01%7Cbmeroundtable-list%40ecn.purdue.edu%7Cb3cdbbc595e1441f633308dbf59a8291%7C4130bd397c53419cb1e58758d6d63f21%7C0%7C0%7C638373816202007036%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&sdata=B8inUn%2B0XHCSKSrUH5DeVag2lwYh3MZ9pJK0VFsHpV0%3D&reserved=0> Wed., Dec. 6: BME Seminar Series, 9:30 a.m., MJIS 1001 or via Zoom. Diane Wagner, PhD, Department of Mechanical Engineering, IUPUI will present “Cartilage Injury Mechanotransduction and New Treatments to Prevent Post-Traumatic Osteorthritis.” Abstract: High-energy trauma to an articular joint delivers a mechanical overload to cartilage tissue and increases the risk of osteoarthritis as much as 10-fold. The mechanosensitive signaling pathways that mediate the damaging response of chondrocytes to mechanical overloads are not well understood. Filling these gaps in knowledge may provide new therapeutic targets following joint injury that prevent or delay the development of post-traumatic osteoarthritis. To this end, our lab identified Sirtuin 1 (SIRT1) as a newly discovered mechanosensitive signaling molecule in chondrocytes’ response to injurious overload. As SIRT1 sits at the nexus of several pathways, our group’s investigation into its mechanical deactivation could provide a more complete picture of damaging mechanotransduction signaling in chondrocytes. Furthermore, we are leveraging our findings to develop new methods to treat cartilage injury and inhibit progression of post-traumatic osteoarthritis. Novel treatment strategies are first tested in explants followed by a rabbit model of cartilage overload. Our early results indicated that treatment of the acute injury response prevents or delays the impact-induced markers of chondrocyte injury, the degradation of cartilage material properties, and the progression of post-traumatic osteoarthritis. Because cartilage is avascular and has limited intrinsic repair capabilities, there is an unmet clinical need for new methods to treat cartilage injury and inhibit progression of post-traumatic osteoarthritis.. Biography: Dr. Diane Wagner obtained her B.S. in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Michigan and worked as a mechanical engineer in industry before pursuing her graduate degree. She obtained her Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering from the University of California at Berkeley in 2002, where her graduate research focused on constitutive modeling of orthopaedic tissues. In her postdoctoral research at Stanford University she investigated the effects of mechanics on adult mesenchymal stem cells. She held a faculty position at University of Notre Dame before transitioning to her current position as an Associate Professor in the department of Mechanical Engineering at IUPUI. Her current research efforts are in the areas of chondrocyte mechanobiology, post-traumatic osteoarthritis, and cartilage wear and tissue mechanics. ~ BME Host: Deva Chan ~ NOTE: Students registered for the seminar are expected to attend in-person. Zoom Link: https://purdue-edu.zoom.us/j/95124789878?pwd=S0x0VW5Vd3VaMVc1LytlL0NJU1FYUT09<https://nam04.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fpurdue-edu.zoom.us%2Fj%2F95124789878%3Fpwd%3DS0x0VW5Vd3VaMVc1LytlL0NJU1FYUT09&data=05%7C01%7Cbmeroundtable-list%40ecn.purdue.edu%7Cb3cdbbc595e1441f633308dbf59a8291%7C4130bd397c53419cb1e58758d6d63f21%7C0%7C0%7C638373816202007036%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&sdata=UstJfiV1i%2B57XG1q5XkBqJzsU9ahEUbYjAoWdae8JP8%3D&reserved=0> Wed., Dec. 6: BME-IBSC PhD Preliminary Exam Announcement for Brock Beauclair (R. Shi, advisor). Everyone is invited to attend the public presentation beginning at 2:00PM in Morgan (MRGN) 129. Research Title: Establishing an in vitro Model of Blast Induced Traumatic Brain Injury. Committee Members: Dr. Riyi Shi, major professor/committee chair, Dr. Scott Pluta, Dr. Edward Bartlett, Dr. Yunjie Tong Abstract: Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is a worldwide health issue. Increasing prevalence of blast-induced TBI (bTBI), a predominantly combat-related injury, is an alarming trend necessitating a better understanding of the associated pathogenesis to develop treatments. Further, most TBI/bTBI injuries are mild and undiagnosed, permitting secondary biochemical injuries to propagate beyond possible intervention. While a link between TBI/bTBI and chronic neurodegenerative diseases, such as Alzheimer’s disease (AD), has been established, the mechanisms are not yet understood. Animal model studies have identified key pathologies, however their spatial and temporal resolution limits detailed investigations into cellular and molecular mechanisms underlying these complex injuries. Additional investigative tools are urgently needed to elucidate the mechanisms behind this immediate and long-term damage. While most in vitro methodologies offer the resolution required, few can visualize bTBI-induced cellular damage during injury, and subsequent biochemical injury. Therefore, we introduce “bTBI-on-a-Chip,” an in vitro blast injury model, capable of simultaneous morphological, biochemical, and bioelectrical assessments during and after injury, with a series of targeted experiments to address this unmet need. We hypothesize that primary blast injury and secondary biochemical injury can be recapitulated in vitro for mechanistic studies into trauma-induced neurodegeneration. Further, we hypothesize that synaptic loss following bTBI can be demonstrated in our system and mitigated by pharmacological intervention, further linking bTBI and AD, and providing key insights into possible prevention strategies. Our goal is to facilitate translational discoveries by studying the mechanisms of bTBI to not only establish early diagnosis criteria, but suggest possible treatments to curtail post-trauma neurodegeneration. Wed., Dec. 6: Advancing Discovery in Antimicrobial Resistance Seminar, 12:00 p.m., Purdue DRUG, Lobby Conference Room. Dr. Jean Chmielewski, Alice Watson Kramer Distinguished Professor of Chemistry and Professor of Biomedical Engineering will present “Stalking Elusive Pathogenic Bacteria: How to Dive into Cells to Treat Infections.” Abstract: This talk will focus on the significant challenges posed by bacterial pathogens that have evolved to inhabit mammalian cells, such as phagocytic macrophages. Within these intracellular safe haven’s bacteria, such as Mycobacterium, form a repository and are able to evade the host immune response as well as a number of antibiotic drugs. We have developed a class of molecules, cationic amphiphilic polyproline helices (CAPHs), that have a dual mode of action: non-lytic antibacterial activity with the ability to localize within mammalian cells. These agents efficiently target and kill pathogenic intracellular bacteria, including Salmonella and Brucella, within human macrophages. This seminar is sponsored by the College of Veterinary Medicine, Department of Basic Medical Sciences and Institute for Drug Discovery. Thurs., Dec. 7: BME PhD Preliminary Exam Announcement for Sang Hoon Um (L. Green, advisor). Everyone is invited to attend the public presentation beginning at 2:30PM in MJIS 2001. Title: Retooling the membrane channel with DNA nanostructure for simultaneous and precise voltage recording. Committee members: Prof. Leopold Green (Chair), Prof. Fang Huang, Prof. Krishna Jayant, Prof. Chengde Mao (Chemistry) Abstract: Neuronal recording technologies have propelled neuroscience forward, facilitating the unraveling of neural functions across various spatiotemporal scales. Characterizing the membrane potential is crucial to understanding the brain's electrical activities and relationship with the structure and function of neural networks. However, scaling these recordings to measure across single neurons and nervous tissue simultaneously and integrating the measurements across various spatiotemporal scales are critical limitations. The recording limitations primarily result from the physical stress placed on delicate cell structures, preventing repeated membrane disturbance. Then, these limitations lead to the inherent incompatibility among various recording methods concerning their spatiotemporal scales. To address these challenges, we propose a novel application of DNA nanostructure as a versatile platform capable of simultaneously gathering and processing data from two representative recording techniques: patch-clamp electrophysiology and voltage-sensitive dye imaging. The engineered DNA nanodevice can be precisely inserted into live cell membranes using a patch pipette. Once inserted, the DNA nanopores create a synthetic ion channel for facilitating the acquisition of ground truth voltage measurements from individual neurons. Also, the incorporation of single Quantum Dots (QDs) within the DNA nanopore, allows for the recording of voltage signals from large populations of neurons. My research objectives are to (1) develop a reusable DNA nanopore to minimize membrane damage during successive recordings and (2) enhance signal detection by embedding QDs within the DNA nanopore, amplifying the Quantum-confined Stark Effect (QCSE). Achieving these aims will introduce an innovative method to harmonizing data acquisition from individual neurons through patch-clamp electrophysiology, which provides a reliable ground truth for voltage measurement in synthetic nanopores. Simultaneously, it will enable the concurrent recording of multiple neurons using QDs, ushering in an unprecedented era of multifaceted neuronal data acquisition. The expected outcomes of this work will enhance our comprehension of neuronal signaling processes, minimize disruptions to the cell membrane integrity for accurate interpretation of synaptic potential, and introduce an innovative approach to simultaneous and precise recording of neuronal signals across diverse spatiotemporal scales. Thurs., Dec. 7: Seminars in Hearing Research, 12:00 noon, Nelson Hall, Room 1215. Alexander V. Galazyuk, Professor of Anatomy and Neurobiology, Northeast Ohio Medical University will present "Residual inhibition: From the mechanism to tinnitus treatment." Abstract: Neurons in various sensory systems show some level of spontaneous firing in the absence of sensory stimuli. In the auditory system spontaneous firing has been shown at all levels of the auditory pathway from spiral ganglion neurons in the cochlea to neurons of the auditory cortex. This internal "noise" is normal for the system, and it does not interfere with our ability to perceive silence or analyze sounds. However, this internal noise can be elevated under pathological conditions. After cochlear insult the input to the central auditory system becomes markedly reduced. To compensate for this loss, the central gain enhancement (or neural amplification) increases neuronal sensitivity which gives rise to hyperactivity. Such hyperactivity has been hypothesized to cause phantom sound perception or tinnitus. This implies that suppression of this hyperactivity should reduce/eliminate tinnitus. Research from our laboratory has been devoted to identifying the mechanism underlying residual inhibition of tinnitus, a brief suppression of tinnitus following a sound stimulus. We found that during this suppression spontaneous firing of auditory neurons is greatly reduced and it is mediated by metabotropic glutamate receptors (mGluRs). The key mechanisms that govern neural suppression in animals closely resemble clinical psychoacoustic findings of residual inhibition observed in tinnitus patients. We also demonstrated that drugs targeting mGluRs suppress spontaneous activity in auditory neurons and reduce/eliminate behavioral signs of tinnitus in mice for several hours. Thus, these drugs are therapeutically relevant for tinnitus suppression in humans. This year’s SHRP schedule is available here: https://purdue.edu/TPAN/hearing/shrp_schedule<https://nam04.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fogww.mj.am%2Flnk%2FAU8AAEukm7AAAchk2HAAALFJlZgAAYCsFQMAnDnUAATD7ABh_T90ybQipdUVQZ20y9CAzjYFPgAEkSo%2F5%2FVzPUtXKo0Dowllp_TK_BrQ%2FaHR0cHM6Ly9wdXJkdWUuZWR1L1RQQU4vaGVhcmluZy9zaHJwX3NjaGVkdWxl&data=05%7C01%7Cbmeroundtable-list%40ecn.purdue.edu%7Cb3cdbbc595e1441f633308dbf59a8291%7C4130bd397c53419cb1e58758d6d63f21%7C0%7C0%7C638373816202007036%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&sdata=zSqCvps%2B0dOjbnarxmj%2FZrRjPyP%2F2CrIk%2FV0nKV9E4g%3D&reserved=0> Titles and abstracts of all SHRP talks are here: https://purdue.edu/TPAN/hearing/shrp_abstracts<https://nam04.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fogww.mj.am%2Flnk%2FAU8AAEukm7AAAchk2HAAALFJlZgAAYCsFQMAnDnUAATD7ABh_T90ybQipdUVQZ20y9CAzjYFPgAEkSo%2F6%2Fa2vUEcd_J6SQbZdR8Ley5Q%2FaHR0cHM6Ly9wdXJkdWUuZWR1L1RQQU4vaGVhcmluZy9zaHJwX2Fic3RyYWN0cw&data=05%7C01%7Cbmeroundtable-list%40ecn.purdue.edu%7Cb3cdbbc595e1441f633308dbf59a8291%7C4130bd397c53419cb1e58758d6d63f21%7C0%7C0%7C638373816202007036%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&sdata=kLQ50De00aQhky6JmQoBuAyUczfYZ82UQS06JkFtBQ0%3D&reserved=0> The seminar is hosted by the Department of Speech, Language and Hearing Sciences. Mon., Dec. 11: BME PhD Preliminary Exam Announcement for Grigorii Rudakov (T. Kinzer-Ursem and L. Green, co-advisors), 10:00 a.m., MJIS 1001. Title: “DNA Tetrahedron Design Optimization for Efficient Drug Delivery Through the Blood-Brain Barrier.” This previously postponed preliminary exam has been re-scheduled for December 11. Advisory Committee: Leopold N. Green, Co-Chair; Tamara L. Kinzer-Ursem, Co-Chair; Chengde Mao; Gregory T. Knipp Abstract: Studying, treating, and mitigating the symptoms of Alzheimer’s Disease and other Neurodegenerative Disorders is a big challenge due to the low Blood-Brain Barrier (BBB) permeability, which is highly selective on what can pass into the brain. In the proposed study, I aim to address the lack of a safe, efficient, and reliable brain drug delivery vehicle by optimizing the design of Tetrahedral DNA Nanomaterials (TDNs) to effectively deliver drugs through the BBB. Starting with two classical TDNs structures, I alter the design by changing the size, structure (one or two double-stranded DNA helices on the edges), and attached DNA aptamers for the receptor-medicated endocytosis pathway. I will study the influence of these factors on cellular uptake, stability of TDNs, toxicity, and potential delivery efficiency. I plan on testing the materials in vitro using primary mice cortical cells and human astrocytes Isogenic-induced Pluripotent Stem Cells, as well as in the human BBB in vitro model. To study the biodistribution and tissue toxicity, I will perform in vivo tests of the most promising TDNs designs in the C57BL/6 wild-type mouse model, harvest the tissues, and run histology analysis with Hematoxylin and Eosin Y stains. The TDNs concentration will be measured by using incorporated into the DNA strands cyanine 3 and 5 dyes fluorescence and the stability will be estimated by Fluorescence Resonance Energy Transfer measurements. After this work, I will have developed an effective, exceptionally biocompatible, and stable nanomaterial with great potential applications in drug delivery through BBB, brain imaging, and gene therapy. Tues., Dec. 12: BME PhD Preliminary Exam Announcement for YunWen (Darren) Chu (S. Pluta and K. Jayant, co-advisors) Everyone is invited to attend the public presentation beginning at 10:00am in MJIS 2001. Title: The neural representation of stimulus priority in the superior colliculus Advisory Committee: Scott R. Pluta, Co-Chair; Krishna Jayant, Co-Chair; Maria C. Dadarlat Makin; Michael G. Heinz Abstract: Decision making relies heavily on the ability to distinguish a highly valued stimulus from less valued objects in the environment, such as sensing food amongst rocks. Along the process of perceiving and interpreting the sensory information, a value is assigned to each perceived stimulus such that this newly learned information can assist future goal-directed tasks. How value-modulated sensory processing evolves across cortical and subcortical regions remains poorly understood. Moreover, it is unknown how the neural representations of stimulus value changes with engagement. To answer these questions, we investigate the mouse primary somatosensory cortex (S1) and the superior colliculus (SC) while the animal is performing an active spatial discrimination task. The mice are trained to actively touch and associate a whisker-dependent stimulus with reward (GO whisker) while ignoring tactile input to the adjacent whisker (NoGo whisker). Extracellular neuronal spikes were recorded with high density extracellular silicon probes, and whisker dynamics were recorded with a high-speed camera. Periodically, task engagement was modified by temporarily removing the reward lickport so that the animal lost motivation to respond. We hypothesize that sensory information in the S1 neocortex is encoded in the form of physical features such as location, which is then converted into a map of stimulus value in the SC. We found that both S1 and SC neurons accurately discriminated between adjacent whisker stimuli with the SC displaying a much stronger preference than S1 for the higher-valued stimulus. Unique to SC, many neurons displayed a bidirectional response profile, where spike rate increased during reward-whisker touch, yet it decreased during NoGo whisker touch. Moreover, pre-stimulus baseline activity of SC neurons was strongly modulated by task engagement and in some cases was able to predict upcoming trial performance, suggesting a direct role in initiating goal-directed action. On completion, this study will expand on the model of how value-modulated sensory information is encoded across cortical and subcortical depths, improving our understanding of goal-directed behavior. Tues., Dec. 12: BME PhD Preliminary Exam Announcement for Hayagreev Vadhiraj Sarma Keri (S. Pluta and K. Jayant, co-advisors). Everyone is invited to attend the public presentation beginning at 2:00 PM in MJIS 2001. TITLE: Cortical circuit mechanisms underlying the goal-directed flow of bilateral cues. COMMITTEE MEMBERS: Dr. Scott Pluta (Primary advisor), Dr. Krishna Jayant (Co-advisor), Dr. Maria Dadarlat, Dr. Edward Bartlett ABSTRACT: Animal behavior displays inherent bilateral coordination between the left and right sides of the body. However, the neural mechanisms governing the integration of information across hemispheres to generate a unified perceptual experience remains poorly understood. In this proposal, we address this question by recording activity from the cerebral cortices during goal-directed behavior. Due to lack of ipsilateral touch responses in the primary somatosensory cortex(S1), naïve models assume bilateral integration to happen primarily in higher cortical areas. However, since tactile behaviors necessitate high temporal resolution, we propose that S1, fortified by robust callosal projections from the contralateral hemisphere, likely plays a crucial role in bilateral integration and in tuning stimulus information in downstream regions. To tackle this question, we developed a novel Go/No-go bilateral discrimination task where mice discriminate between bilateral stimuli categories, compelling them to share tactile information across hemispheres. We observed that mice enhance the bilateral whisker movement symmetry during 'Go' stimulus presentation. Examination of neural activity revealed strong temporal coupling between the S1s along with enhanced ipsilateral facilitation modulated by behavioral context. Our findings challenge existing models and propose a novel framework suggesting that behavioral context governs bilateral integration in the sensory cortex. Additionally, neurons in the whisker motor cortex (wMC) were also found to accurately decode sensory and motor variables during the bilateral task. By innovative optogenetic axon silencing of specific feedforward projection neurons, we aim to dissect the circuits underlying this brain-wide computation. Completing this proposal will provide insights on the circuits and cell-types underlying bilateral sensation and movement. Wed., Dec. 20: BME PhD Preliminary Exam Announcement for Eugene S. Kim (T. Kinzer-Ursem, advisor). Everyone is invited to attend the public presentation beginning at 10:00 AM in MJIS 2001. Title: The Role of CaMKIIβ-DrebrinA Binding in F-actin Stabilization in Dendritic Spines. Thesis Committee members: Dr. Tamara L. Kinzer-Ursem (Chair) | Dr. Janice P. Evans | Dr. Fang Huang | Dr. Krishna Jayant Abstract: Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is a neurodegenerative disease often observed in elderly patients (≥65y/o). Symptoms of AD include, but are not limited to, loss of learning and memory function and epileptic seizures. Symptoms of AD are rooted in dysfunctional synapses between neurons, leading to impaired synaptic plasticity. Several genes are associated with AD. For example, mutations in the gene encoding drebrin (DBN) are strongly implicated in AD. Drebrin1A (DBN1A) is an actin-stabilizing protein prominently expressed in dendritic spines and helps maintain the cytoskeletal structure. The role of DBN1A in structure-based synaptic plasticity has not been described. Dendritic spines are protrusions on the postsynaptic neuron and are composed of a spine head and spine neck. Although spine head enlargement is commonly seen in synaptic plasticity, an understanding of how the regions between the spine neck, head-neck interface, and spine head are regulated and its relation to synaptic plasticity is lacking. A recent discovery of DBN1A and CaMKIIβ interactions near this interface has been reported. However, it is still unclear how CaMKIIβ-DBN1A increases F-actin bundling in dendritic spines. Based on the literature, we suspect that CaMKIIβ-DBN1A binding plays a significant role in structure-based synaptic plasticity. We hypothesize that during synaptic plasticity, structural remodeling of dendritic spines requires CaMKIIβ-DBN1A to stabilize the F-actin pool at the head-neck interface. To test this hypothesis, we propose to use super-resolution microscopy (SRM) and molecular dynamic (MD) simulations to provide comprehensive evidence that CaMKIIβ-DBN1A complex is critical F-actin bundling during synaptic plasticity in dendritic spines. Wed., Jan. 10: BME Distinguished Seminar Series, 9:30 a.m., MRGN 121 (NOTE LOCATION CHANGE) or via zoom. Jason W. Allen, MD, PhD, FACR, Eugene C. Klatte Professor and Chair of Department of Radiology and Imaging Sciences, Indiana University School of Medicine will present “Cryptogenic Strokes Unveiled by Biomedical Engineering Approaches.” Abstract: Internal carotid artery webs (CaW) are a relatively common, but frequently overlooked etiology of cryptogenic strokes, particularly in younger patients. CaW are not related to atherosclerosis, and instead demonstrate atypical fibromuscular dysplasia on histopathology. These lesions appear as shelf-like or pyramidal-shaped projections and occur exclusively in the bulbar segment of the internal carotid artery. Despite generally producing <50% stenosis of the lumen, CaW are thrombogenic and are resistant to standard antiplatelet monotherapy, unlike atherosclerotic plaques associated with a similar degree of luminal narrowing, which are usually asymptomatic. Furthermore, the composition of CaW-associated emboli likely differs from other arterial clots and appears similar to venous clots, suggesting a different mechanism of thrombogenesis. Using a multimodal approach of 4D flow MRI and computational fluid dynamics simulations, we have shown that immediately downstream of CaW, there is increased stagnation with larger areas of the vessel wall exposed to decreased wall shear stress and increased oscillatory index. These persist throughout the cardiac cycle and likely set the stage for thrombosis and subsequent stroke. We have also demonstrated that CaW are amendable to carotid stenting, providing a less invasive treatment option to carotid endarterectomy. As the prevalence of CaW in the general US population is 1-7%, understanding the mechanism of thrombogenesis and the future and recurrent stroke risk in these patients is critical to determining appropriate, patient-centric clinical care. Biography: Jason W. Allen, MD, PhD, FACR is the Eugene C. Klatte Professor and Chair of the Department of Radiology and Imaging Sciences at the Indiana University School of Medicine. Dr. Allen obtained his MD and PhD in Neuroscience from Georgetown University School of Medicine and completed residencies in Neurology and Diagnostic Radiology as well as a two-year Neuroradiology fellowship at New York University School of Medicine. He previously was a partner at TRA Medical Imaging in Washington as well as a prior Professor at Emory University School of Medicine where he served in several roles, including the Neuroradiology Division Director, Medical Director of the Emory Center for Systems Imaging Core (CSIC), and Director of the Laboratory for Imaging Neuroscience at Emory (LINE). His primary research interests are characterizing the alterations in advanced neuroimaging metrics in the setting of neuronal injury, including stroke, traumatic brain injury, and neurodegenerative disorders, as well as the diagnosis and prognosis of cerebrovascular disease, such as subarachnoid hemorrhage, cerebrovascular reserve, and internal carotid webs. His laboratory is funded through several federal, private foundation, and institutional grants. He is also active in national organizations, particularly the American Society of Functional Neuroradiology (ASFNR) and the American Society of Neuroradiology (ASNR). ~ BME Host: Young Kim ~ Zoom link: https://purdue-edu.zoom.us/j/5593290378?pwd=eFBOZFlNTU50ZDA2S2gwcnpyOWIwUT09<https://nam04.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fpurdue-edu.zoom.us%2Fj%2F5593290378%3Fpwd%3DeFBOZFlNTU50ZDA2S2gwcnpyOWIwUT09&data=05%7C01%7Cbmeroundtable-list%40ecn.purdue.edu%7Cb3cdbbc595e1441f633308dbf59a8291%7C4130bd397c53419cb1e58758d6d63f21%7C0%7C0%7C638373816202007036%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&sdata=7Tfje5VF8%2BSynJPRhCNsx8G2GG3uxQ6p09z3Gha5I2E%3D&reserved=0> Note: Students registered for the seminar are expected to attend in-person. [cid:image002.png@01DA2759.7651DCE0] BME Weekly Research Seminars Week # Date Speaker Title Host Website 15 12/6/2023 Diane Wagner Associate Professor of Mechanical and Energy Engineering, IUPUI Deva Chan https://et.iupui.edu/people/wagnerdi Postdoctoral Fellow Opportunity – IUSM Emergency Medicine The laboratory of Dr. Nathan J. Alves, PhD, within the Department of Emergency Medicine at the Indiana University School of Medicine (IUSM), is seeking a highly motivated and independent post-doctoral research fellow. Dr. Alves is a Chemical and Biomolecular Engineer, Associate Professor and the Director of Translational Research for the Department of Emergency Medicine in addition to having an affiliate faculty appointment at Purdue University in Biomedical Engineering. The Alves Lab explores highly interdisciplinary research interests applying engineering and biophysical principles and designs to create translational technologies and treatments in the area of blood coagulation and fibrinolysis. The primary focus of research in the laboratory is to develop targeted clot digesting therapeutic agents to more safely digest clinically relevant blood clots to treat pulmonary embolism (PE, blood clots in the lungs), deep vein thrombosis (DVT), and ischemic stroke. This interdisciplinary research utilizes diverse enzyme assays, chemical synthesis, blood clot formation and digestion assays under shear, and other novel testing/delivery platforms that include multivalent branched molecules and nanoparticle drug delivery systems. Projects Include: (1) Leveraging multivalency to modulate enzyme activity and improve inhibitor selectivity (nanoparticle drug delivery and targeting). (2) Ex-vivo flowing models of clot digestion under shear using in-vivo like fluorescently labeled blood clots from human whole blood. (3) Development of novel fibrinolytic diagnostics tools to assess coagulation state. (4) Mouse models of clot formation/targeting/digestion utilizing intravital microscopy. (5) Study the effects of environmental microplastic exposure on coagulation/fibrinolysis. Projects are funded both externally and internally. For additional information and to apply, go to: https://indiana.peopleadmin.com/postings/19651<https://nam04.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Findiana.peopleadmin.com%2Fpostings%2F19651&data=05%7C01%7Cbmeroundtable-list%40ecn.purdue.edu%7Cb3cdbbc595e1441f633308dbf59a8291%7C4130bd397c53419cb1e58758d6d63f21%7C0%7C0%7C638373816202163272%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&sdata=nEQ1c%2B%2B6c1klKYL%2Bte1qKKGTcVF%2F4jijXhX063yUBHQ%3D&reserved=0> -- Bmeroundtable-list mailing list Bmeroundtable-list@ecn.purdue.edu https://engineering.purdue.edu/ECN/mailman/listinfo/bmeroundtable-list