The Association for Biology Laboratory Education
21st Annual Conference
June 1 – 5, 1999
The University of Nebraska-Lincoln
Lincoln, Nebraska
The 21st annual conference of the Association of Biology Laboratory Education (ABLE) was held in Lincoln, Nebraska, June 1-5, 1999, at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln (UNL). The conference is being sponsored by the School of Biological Sciences and the College of Arts and Sciences as part of an initiative to promote improvement of Math
and Science Education.
- Conference Highlights
- Membership in ABLE
- Transportation, Accommodations,
Food Service, Campus Recreation
Facility - Conference Registration, Refund
Policy - Laboratory Workshops
- Mini Workshops
- Special Events, Pre-Conference
Field Trips, Post Conference Field Trips,
ABLE T-Shirt - The City of Lincoln, University
of Nebraska-Lincoln, Lincoln Weather,
Visit Nebraska
Monday, May 31
- ABLE Board Meeting: 3:30 pm – 5:00 pm; 6:30 pm – 9:30 pm
- Conference Registration: 7:00 pm – 9:00 pm – Pound Residence Hall
Tuesday, June 1
- Conference Registration: 7:30 am – 10:00 am – Pound Residence Hall
- Field Trip 1: Agricultural Research and Development Center (8:15 am – 5:00 pm)
- Field Trip 2: Exploring the Platte River (8:00 am – 5:00 pm)
- Field Trip 3: Planes, Fish, and Wildlife (8:30 am – 5:00 pm)
- Conference Registration: 3:00 pm – 5:30 pm – Pound Residence Hall
- Welcome Reception: UN State Museum (6:30 pm – 8:30 pm)
Wednesday, June 2
- Conference Registration:7:00 am – 8:00 am – Pound Residence Hall
- Major Workshops: 8:00 am – 11:00 am
- Special Lecture and Box Lunch : 11:30 am – 12:30 pm
- Mini-Workshops: 12:45 pm – 1:45 pm
- Major Workshops: 2:15 pm – 5:15 pm
- Special Event: Pow Wow – 6:00 pm – 9:00 pm
Thursday, June 3
- Major Workshops: 8:00 am – 11:00 am
- Conference Photograph and Box Lunch 11:15 am – 12:15 pm
- Mini Workshops: 12:15 pm – 2:15 pm
- Major Workshops: 2:30 pm – 5:30 pm
- ABLE Business Meeting 5:45 pm – 7:00 pm
Friday, June 4
- Major Workshops: 8:00 am – 11:00 am
- Box Lunch: 11:15 am – 12:00 noon
- Mini Workshops 12:00 noon – 1:00 pm
- Major Workshops: 1:30 pm – 4:30 pm
- Conference Dinner – Lied Jungle: 5:15 pm – 9:30 pm
Saturday, June 5
- Field Trip 4: AshFall Fossil Beds (7:45 am – 9:30 pm)
- Field Trip 5: Konza Prairie (8:00 am – 9:00 pm)
- Field Trip 6: Indian Cave State Park/Squaw Creek Wildlife Refuge (8:15 am – 9:00 pm)
Conference Information Contacts
Registration Information:
Tom Graf, Program Coordinator
Academic Conferences and Professional Programs
University of Nebraska-Lincoln, Room 156 NCCE
33rd & Holdredge Streets, Lincoln, NE 68583-9600
Phone (402) 472-2844, Fax: (402)472-9688
Email: tgraf@unlinfo.unl.edu
Conference Program Information
Dr. Bill Glider, ABLE Conference Host
School of Biological Sciences
University of Nebraska-Lincoln, Lincoln, NE 68588-0118.
Phone: (402) 472-6242, Fax: (402) 472-2083
Email: bglider@unlinfo.unl.edu
(Emergency phone numbers for use during the conference will be listed in the registration confirmation letter.)
Lincoln, Nebraska’s capital city, is located in the southeastern part of
the state. In the 1850s, the salt flats west of the city attracted
the first settlers to what would become Lancaster County. It was
hoped mining of the valuable salt deposits would create major industry
in the area. By 1867, Nebraska had become a state and the village
of Lancaster, renamed Lincoln in honor of the U.S. president, had
been designated as its capital. The village grew quickly with the
chartering of the University in 1869 and the arrival of the Burlington
& Missouri Railroad in 1870. Now with a population of more than
200,000, Lincoln has become the seat of the only one-house legislature
(the Unicameral) in the nation. The city provides a wide variety
of urban arts and entertainment and prides itself on a quality lifestyle
that includes safe streets and a clean environment. The downtown
retailing area and central business district is within easy walking
distance of the University’s City Campus. For more information about
Lincoln and the many offerings located in the “Star City”, please
visit the Lincoln Convention and Visitors Bureau web site.
Legislature in 1869 as the state’s public university and land grant
institution It is the largest of four campuses with an enrollment
of about 24,000 undergraduate and graduate students. Instruction
at UNL is organized within individual colleges and schools located
on two campuses, City and East.
The Colleges of Arts and Sciences, Engineering, Teachers, Fine Arts,
and Business Administration are located on City Campus and the College
of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources is located on
East Campus, about 3 miles from City Campus. The School of Biological
Sciences, within the College of Arts and Sciences, is divided into
two Sections: Ecology, Evolution & Behavioral Biology and Genetics,
Cellular & Molecular Biology. The main facilities of the School
are located in Manter Hall of Life Sciences and
the Beadle Center for Genetics and Biomaterials Research.
Weather
be cold and rainy or hot and humid. Daytime temperatures average
around 76 oF (24 oC) and nighttime temperatures 52 oF (11 oC). In addition, June is
often one of the wettest months in southeast Nebraska. Therefore, we recommend
that you pack an umbrella or light, waterproof rain jacket.
Airlines
The Lincoln Municipal Airport is served by United
(via Denver and Chicago), TWA
(via St. Louis), Northwest
(via Minneapolis) and USAir
(via Kansas City). Participants may wish to consider flying into
Omaha’s Eppley Airfield (50 miles east of Lincoln) which is served by
a greater variety of airlines. For information regarding Omaha’s
Eppley Airfield, call (402) 422-6817 or visit their web site. United
Airlines is the official carrier for the ABLE Conference and is
offering a discount rate for travel. For information call AAA
Business Travel at (800) 456-3002 or any authorized United Airlines
ticket vendor. Be sure to indicate that you are attending the ABLE
Conference (code: 527MH) in order to obtain the discounted fare.
The taxi fare from the Lincoln Municipal Airport to downtown Lincoln
is about $15.
Ground Travel
Car rentals from most major companies are available at both Lincoln
Municipal Airport and Eppley Airfield. Advanced booking is advised. Additionally, shuttle
service between the Omaha and Lincoln airports is provided by Eppley
Express. Call (800) 888-9793 for details. Note that the
Eppley Express does not make stops in downtown Lincoln or at UNL.
Taxicab service is available through Husker Cabs at (402) 477-4111and StarTran,
Lincoln’s public transportation system, operates buses between the
hours of 7:00 a.m.- 6:00 p.m., Mondays-Saturdays. For more information
about StarTran schedules, call (402) 476-1234.
Parking
ABLE participants staying in the Pound Residence Hall will be
issued a permit to park their vehicle in a nearby lot when they
check in. ABLE participants who are staying off campus have several
options for parking. The Stadium
Drive Parking Garage is located at 625 Stadium Drive (on the
west side of Memorial Stadium) and is less than a five minute walk from
Manter Hall, home to the School of Biological Sciences. Rates for this
facility are reasonably priced. Additionally, visitors can secure
parking permits from UNL Parking Services, located in the Stadium
Drive Parking Garage.
Accommodations
Participants electing to stay on campus during the ABLE conference
will be housed in Pound Residence Hall, located at 513 North 17th.
Pound Hall is within walking distance of all conference sites. Each
air-conditioned room features two single beds and all linens are
provided. The rooms are served by communal restroom facilities.
A single-occupancy room costs $31.00 per day and a double occupancy
room costs $17.50 per day. These rates include a full breakfast
following each night’s stay. Registration forms for on-campus housing
are enclosed in this booklet.
Additional Lodging
A block of rooms has been reserved for ABLE conference participants
at the Holiday Inn Downtown located at 141 North 9th Street. The
Holiday Inn is several blocks southwest of the UNL City
Campus and within walking distance of conference activities. Rooms
include either a king sized bed or two double size beds. The Holiday
Inn features an indoor pool, restaurant, and lounge. Rooms can be
secured for $79.00 if reserved by Monday, May 3, 1999 (does not
include 9% room tax). Call (402) 475-4011 or (800) 432-0002 for
reservations. A number of budget motels are located near the Lincoln
Municipal Airport, which is about 10 miles from campus. Information
concerning these motels can be obtained from the City of Lincoln web site.
Camping
There are a number of campgrounds within driving distance from
the UNL campus. A description of these facilities can be found in
the Visitor Information/Lodging section on the Lincoln web site.
Food Service
Pound Residence Hall will be provided full breakfast through their
dormitory accommodation.
Lunch: Box lunches will be provided during the
conference and on field trips as a part of the registration fee.
Dinner: Dinners are not provided through conference
registration, although several special event dinners can be paid
for along with the registration fees (see section on Special Events).
A listing of recommended restaurants in Lincoln will be included
with the conference packet at check-in.
During the conference, ABLE participants who wish to maintain
their regular exercise routines while away from home will have access
to Campus Recreation exercise facilities. Located one half block
north of 14th & Vine St., the Sapp Recreation facility features
both an indoor and outdoor track, a swimming pool, weight room,
basketball and raquetball courts. The Sapp Recreation Center is
open from 6:30 am – 10:00 pm daily. Participants may sign up for
one week access for $6.00 by presenting their residence hall meal
tags.
- can be requested from: Academic Conferences and Professional
Programs, University of Nebraska-Lincoln, (402) 472-2844,
Fax: (402)472-9688, Email: tgraf@unlinfo.unl.edu - can be printed online from a PDF file
Payment must accompany each registration form in order
for it to be processed. Please submit separate conference and housing registration forms for each participant.
Blank registration forms may be photocopied. Payment must be made by check or money order to the University of Nebraska in U.S. funds or by VISA, MasterCard, or American Express credit card. Early registration (deadline May 3) costs $180. This registration fee includes the Welcome Reception, a box lunch (June 1-June 5), workshops, workshop
documents, and refreshments.
The conference is limited to 150 participants. Space will be assigned in the order that registration forms are received; priority will be given to ABLE members whose dues are paid by May 3. Registration fee for attendees who are not members of ABLE is $200. There is an additional $25 late registration fee for both members and nonmembers
after May 3. Accompanying persons may register for $45. and are invited to attend the Welcome Reception, lunches, and refreshment breaks.
Pre- and post-conference field trips, the Conference Dinner, and the Pow Wow are not included with the registration fee and must be purchased before the conference.
Inquiries regarding conference registration should be directed to:
Tom Graf, Program Coordinator, Academic Conferences and
Professional Programs, University of Nebraska-Lincoln, Room 156
NCCE, 33rd & Holdredge Streets, Lincoln, NE 68583-9600.
Phone (402) 472-2844, Fax: (402)472-9688, Email: tgraf@unlinfo.unl.edu
Inquiries regarding the conference program should be directed to:
Dr. Bill Glider, ABLE Conference Host, School of Biological
Sciences, University of Nebraska-Lincoln, Lincoln, NE 68588-0118.
Phone: (402) 472-6242, Fax: (402) 472-2083, Email: bglider@unlinfo.unl.edu
If conference registration must be canceled, fees already paid
will be refunded upon receipt of a written request (fax is acceptable)
to the Department of Academic Conferences and Professional Programs
on or before May 3. No refunds will be issued after May 3.
ABLE Membership
You may join ABLE or renew your membership as part of your registration fees or by contacting:
Nancy Rosenbaum
ABLE Membership Chairperson
Biology Department, Box 208104, Yale University, New Haven, CT 06520-9104
Phone: (203) 432-3864
Fax: (203) 432-3854
E-mail: nancy.rosenbaum@yale.edu
The official ABLE 1999 conference t-shirt will feature the conference logo as displayed at the top of this document.
The logo is an original drawing of a Burrowing Owl by Dr. Paul Johnsgard, a world renowned ornithologist and Regents Professor of Biological Sciences at UNL. Burrowing Owls are commonly found nesting in old prairie dog burrows in Nebraska grasslands. T-shirts cost $12.00, paid in advance with your registration.
Laboratory Workshops
Wednesday, June 2
All workshops presented 8:00 am – 11:00 am and 2:15 pm – 5:15 pm unless noted otherwise
1. Case It! Case Study Learning
Mark Bergland and Karen Klyczek (University of Wisconsin –
River Falls)
Case It! is an NSF-sponsored BioQUEST project to promote collaborative
case-based learning in biology education worldwide. Students use
open-ended molecular biology computer simulations to analyze case
studies in a variety of fields including human genetics, forensics,
and ecology, then discuss results with their peers at other institutions
via web-based “poster sessions”. Workshop participants will use
software modules to gather background information and analyze DNA
sequences, then create web-page posters and discuss them via a conferencing
system at the Case It! web site. Integration of the simulations
into wet labs involving DNA digestion and PCR amplification will
also be discussed.
2. Seafood Forensics
Kathy Frame (National Association of Biology Teachers)
Students perform protein analysis of crab tissue to determine
if species substitution has occurred. Samples are analyzed using
horizontal agarose gel electrophoresis. This hands-on, investigative,
“cutting-edge” activity is one of 17 in the publication Shoestring
Biotechnology. The publication emphasizes biotechnology’s role
in the environment, medicine, plant and animal preservation, and
agriculture, as well as how to teach biotech cost-effectively (NSF/ATE/DUE
#9553720).
3. Paleoecology as a Classroom Tool to Address Global
Climate Change
Mark E. Lyford and Jane M. Beiswenger (University of Wyoming)
We have designed an activity to illustrate paleoecological techniques
with a focus on the Pleistocene period. We provide students with
background information and ask them to count pollen on slides representing
six different time periods from a site in Idaho. Based on the class
data, we ask the students to interpret how the vegetation has changed
at the site. The students then infer how the climate would have
changed given the ecological characteristics of the species examined.
We conclude with a discussion of how interpreting past vegetation
changes may help predict future vegetation patterns in response
to climate change.
4. Electromyography: Recording Electrical Signals from
Human Muscle
Charlie Drewes (Iowa State University)
You will use surface recording electrodes, a small battery-powered
pre-amplifier, and a small battery-powered audio-monitor (for purposes
of biofeedback) to analyze electromyogram (EMG) activity from the
gastrocnemius muscle in a freely moving, untethered human. Also,
you will (1) learn principles of EMG recording, (2) study electrical
activity patterns from single motor units, (3) examine patterns
of motor unit recruitment during voluntary movement, (4) study the
graded nature of involuntary stretch reflex responses, (5) measure
stretch reflex latency with an oscilloscope, and (6) calculate average
sensori-motor conduction velocity in human leg nerve.
5. Population Genetics and Evolution
Christine K. Barton (Centre College)
The Hardy-Weinberg law represents the cornerstone of the modern
theory of evolution. In an infinitely large population with completely
random mating, this law establishes a mathematical model that allows
us to accurately predict both gene and genotype frequencies. Biologists
use the predictions of the Hardy-Weinberg law as a standard against
which microevolutionary change can be measured. In this lab exercise,
students are presented with a hands-on simulation that allows them
to become acquainted with an equilibrium population and the subsequent
effect that gene flow, natural selection, and genetic drift could
have on the original gene pool. The hands-on simulation is supplemented
with a computer exercise using the EVOLVE software program.
6. Plant Vascular Systems
Laura K. Thompson (Furman University)
One of the most important developments shown by plants which make
them suited to life on dry land is a vascular system which distributes
water, nutrients and sugars throughout the plant from their disparate
sources (leaves, roots, atmosphere, soil, etc.). This freshman level
laboratory exercise introduces students to plant diversity by using
an investigative approach in studying various aspects of the plant
vascular system. Students study the anatomy of the xylem system
in a dicot stem, measure the xylem flow rate, and study the effect
of microenvironmental conditions that control stomatal opening.
7. An Evaluation of Host-Parasite Interaction
Sara V. Brant and Ben Hanelt (University of Nebraska-Lincoln)
Parasitism is the prevailing life-style and host-parasite associations
provide outstanding models in studies of species interactions. This
exercise demonstrates some basic principles in parasitology using
a simple and easily obtainable systems such as rat/tapeworms, frogs/various
parasites or beetles/protozoans. The following will be presented:
(1) an introduction to parasite relationships with its host (2)
an overview to the methods used in experimental studies (3) extrapolation
of impacts on the host and other individual parasites from quantitative
measures. Through experimentation, the students will understand
what is a parasite, details of a complex life cycle, and how parasites
interact with their environment.
8. Effective Methods of Training Biology Laboratory Teaching
Assistants
Maggie Haag (University of Alberta), Kimberley Christopher
(University of Alberta), Jean Dickey (Clemson University) and William
V. Glider (University of Nebraska-Lincoln)
One of the most important factors in the success of undergraduate
biology laboratories rests with the instructors that teach them.
Often, especially in large multi-section courses, this responsibility
is left in the hands of graduate or undergraduate teaching assistants
(TAs). In recent years, many universities and colleges have begun
to put an effort into TA training, focusing on effective and often
varied means of instruction, clear and concise methods of communication,
and consistent and fair marking. This workshop will present a number
of examples of programs used for the training of TAs teaching biology
as well as some methodologies that have proven successful. Most
important to the success of this workshop will be a forum for the
sharing of ideas, methods, programs, etc. that various participants
have experienced. Participants are encouraged to bring appropriate
TA training materials to the workshop for discussion and distribution
This workshop will only be presented 2:15 – 5:15 pm
Thursday, June 3
All workshops presented 8:00 – 11:00 am and 2:30 – 5:30 pm
9. Creating Interactive Biology Tutorials for the World
Wide Web Using a Simple Java Editor
William Udell (University of Nebraska-Lincoln)
This hands-on workshop will provide participants the opportunity
to work with Jamba®, an easy to use and inexpensive Java editor
from Interleaf Software. This program can be used to create interactive
tutorials for the internet including: drag and drop, animation,
fill in the blank and multiple-choice questions, and interactive
slide shows. Workshop participants will first learn how to construct
a basic drag and drop concept map and then how to create an interactive
animation dealing with water balance in living cells. This tutorial
uses a mastery based learning strategy in which the student is allowed
to move on to the next question only after having successfully answered
the previous question. The Jamba® software is currently available
for Windows 95 and Windows NT platforms only. However, tutorials
created with this software will run on Windows 95, Windows NT, Unix,
and Macintosh platforms. Participants in this workshop should
have experience with PC computers, and some knowledge of the web.
Knowledge of HTML and Java programing is not necessary. Information
about Jamba® can be found on the Jamba®
web site.
10. Introducing Students to Conservation Genetics Using
Sturgeon Caviar
Kathleen Nolan (St. Francis College/NY), Phaedra Doukakis,
Vadim Birstein, and Rob DeSalle (American Museum of Natural History)
In this laboratory exercise students will learn how to (a) Isolate
DNA from individual sturgeon eggs (available at any local deli that
sells caviar) using a rapid DNAzol protocol, (b) Set up a PCR reaction
using primers that have been developed for DNA from sturgeon species
and (c) employ electrophoresis and methylene blue and/or ethidium
bromide staining to visualize the PCR products. This laboratory
exercise would allow students to contribute to a growing DNA data
base on endangered species.
11. Induction of Nitrate Reductase in Plant Shoots
Barry McCashin (University of Alberta)
The induction of enzyme activity by a substrate is usually examined
in prokaryotes but in this lab, we will investigate the phenomenon
in a higher plant. Using a simple colorimetric assay, we will study
the induction of nitrate reductase in the shoots of corn seedlings
after applying a solution containing nitrate to the roots. We will
look at the effect of nitrate concentration as well as the time
course of enzyme induction and may also assess the role of light
in the process.
12. Effects of Irradiance Level on photosynthetic CO2
Uptake and Chlorophyll Fluorescence
Stephen Hunt (Qubit Systems Inc.)
This investigation introduces students to the concept of measuring
photosynthesis by open flow gas analysis, using a CO2
analyzer to measure CO2 uptake by a leaf in a leaf chamber.
At the same time chlorophyll fluorescence is also measured. The
photon flux supplied to the leaf is altered and effects on photosynthetic
rate and chlorophyll fluorescence are measured. A photosynthetic
light response curve is generated and from this students can identify
the light saturation point and the light compensation point of the
leaf, as well as estimating photochemical efficiency and dark respiration
rate. On a separate plot, the antiparallel relationship between
photosynthetic rate and chlorophyll fluorescence is shown. This
investigation provides background for numerous other studies into
the effects of environmental perturbations on photosynthetic physiology.
13. Investigating an Immune Response to Bacterial Infection
Jon S. Miller and David W. Stanley (University of Nebraska-Lincoln)
The ability of organisms to defend themselves from parasites and
pathogens is a fundamental aspect of biology. Because of the risk
of infection from blood born pathogens, and the elaborate protocols
required to handle and keep mammals and other vertebrate organisms,
it is becoming more difficult and expensive to conduct laboratory
exercises that illustrate fundamental immune reactions. As a result,
alternative models are needed to teach this important biological
process. In this workshop, we suggest invertebrates, namely insects,
as a solution to this growing dilemma and present activities that
are appropriate for biology teaching laboratories. In this workshop
you will become familiar with the internal structure of the larval
tobacco hornworm, Manduca sexta and assess the nodulation
response of the larvae to an artificially induced bacterial infection.
14. An Experimental System to Study Phagocytosis
Donna M. Bozzone and Denise Martin (St. Michael’s College)
In this workshop, we will present a simple technique to observe
and quantitate phagocytosis in the protozoan, Tetrahymena.
The procedure consists of feeding ink or other inert materials to
cells, and counting the number of food vacuoles that form over a
30-minute time period. Because the protocol is straightforward and
the cell behavior is interesting to observe, this system is excellent
both for introducing students to the microscope and for inquiry-based
laboratory exploration. Workshop participants will have the opportunity
to design and implement experiments that examine factors affecting
phagocytosis and vacuole formation. Possible questions to explore
experimentally include: will the previous nutritional state of the
cells influence the rate of phagocytosis?; how will starved cells
behave?; is the cytoskeleton necessary for phagocytosis?; will cells
choose amongst different food items?; is the response temperature
dependent? After experiments have been completed, we will discuss
all results and formulate another set of testable questions.
15. Insect Predation, Prey Defense, and Community Structure
William Wyatt Hoback and Leon G. Higley (University of Nebraska-Lincoln)
Insect predators use one of three general foraging strategies
to capture prey. Evolutionarily, species subjected to strong predation
pressure may respond by developing defenses including poison, or
by producing more offspring. This exercise examines the interplay
between three potential prey species and three insect predator types
played by the students by simulations over 5 to 10 generations.
In response to foraging, one prey type becomes poisonous, one prey
type becomes semi-poisonous, and one prey type remains palatable.
To simulate the cost of defense, prey reproduction rate is dependent
on level of prey defense. Co-evolution and predator specialization
are simulated by allowing one predator type to adapt to the poisonous
prey species.
16. Energetic Strategies of Terrestrial Vertebrates
Kathy Winnett-Murray and Lori H. Hertel (Hope College)
A major objective of this lab is to link organismal biology and
ecology through the exploration of vertebrate metabolic strategies
and their ecological consequences. Two components are completed
in the 3-hour lab. First, students investigate the difference in
metabolic response of representative endotherms (mice) and ectotherms
(green anoles) to temperature changes. Metabolic rate is gauged
via oxygen consumption using an oxygen analyzer. In the second component,
ecological consequences are studied through behavior and preferred
body temperature in a temperature gradient using simple gradient
boxes and electronic thermometers.
Friday, June 4
All workshops presented 8:00 am – 11:00 am and 1:30 pm -4:30 pm
unless noted otherwise
17. What I Could Teach Darwin Using “Darwin 2000”, an
Interactive Web Site for Student Research into the Evolution of
Genes and Proteins
Rick Hershberger (Carlow College)
The “Darwin 2000” web site (www.bioactivesite.com/biocomputing/darwin2000/)
was developed to train undergraduates in the use of online molecular
sequence databases and analysis tools, and to guide their research
into the evolution of genes and proteins. Workshop participants
will (a) locate DNA and protein sequences of their choice within
GenBank, (b) search for homologous genes or proteins, (c) conduct
a multiple sequence alignment to identify conserved regions within
protein families and examine molecular phylogenies, and (d) map
conserved domains on molecular models. All databases, biocomputing
servers, and modeling software used are available free online. Instructional
technology and pedagogical considerations in designing the site
will also be discussed.
18. Introduction to the Molecular Phylogeny of Insects
Theodore Gurney, Robert Elbel, Dhitinut Ratnapradipa (University
of Utah), and Robert Bossard (Washington State University)
Characterization of insect species by PCR will be illustrated
with four lab exercises: (1) Rapid DNA isolation from single insects
such as fleas, ants, fruit flies, or mosquitoes. The procedure can
also be used with many other eukaryotic organisms. Students may
bring their own specimens (preserved in 95% ethanol) or may use
ours. (2) PCR using universal ITS primers. We will supply previously
isolated insect DNA. (3) Electrophoresis of PCR products. We will
supply PCR products. (4) Calculations of PCR product sizes. We will
also provide information for further characterization of insect
DNA by RFLP and by sequencing.
19. Shifts in Microhabitat Use by Snails in Response to
Fish Predators
Timothy W. Stewart and Charlene Waggoner (Bowling Green State
University)
Natural selection promotes evolution of predator detection and
avoidance strategies, especially in species lacking physical defenses.
Using a laboratory experiment, we will illustrate mechanisms of
predator detection and avoidance in thin-shelled pond snails (Physella).
Specifically, we will test hypotheses that snails 1) detect predators
through chemical cues, and 2) alter microhabitat use (i.e., leave
the water or increase use of physical structure) after detecting
predators. A Mann-Whitney test will be used to quantify predator-mediated
changes in snail microhabitat use. Finally, we will introduce a
follow-up experiment that evaluates the efficacy of microhabitat
shifts in reducing fish effects on snail mortality.
20. Courtship Reaction Chains and Signals of Melittobia
Parasitic Wasps
Judith A. Guinan and Robert W. Matthews (University of Georgia-Athens)
Insect courtship is very diverse, with some species exhibiting
complex and highly stereotyped courtship sequences. In this lab,
students will (1) document the sequence of events (referred to as
reaction chains) that comprise the courtship of a common species
of parasitic wasp, Melittobia digitata, and (2) examine
the effect of mating experience on the timing and duration of courtship.
They will then design and perform a simple bioassay experiment to
determine whether pheromones play particular roles in mate attraction.
Compared to Drosophila courtship laboratories, Melittobia
are easily manipulated, require no anesthesia, and the sexes are
clearly distinct.
21. Evolution By Artificial Selection and Unraveling the
Mysteries of Hairy’s Inheritance
Daniel Lauffer (University of Wisconsin- Madison)
Using rapid-cycling Brassica rapa, Wisconsin Fast Plants,
a nine-week exercise has been developed for an introductory biology
course in artificial selection. This tested activity results in
substantial evolution over two consecutive generations for the number
of trichomes present on the petiole of the first true leaf. Selecting
for either an increased or decreased population value, students
compare their experimental results with their predictions for mean
and distribution. Results are used to predict the effects of continued
selection over subsequent generations. The intermating of the two
divergent populations, hairy and hairless, leads to further investigations
into quantitative inheritance.
22. Investigations of Aquatic Food Web Interactions Using
Microcosms
Kyle D. Hoagland and John C. Holz (University of Nebraska-Lincoln)
Plankton assemblages from lakes and reservoirs offer significant
opportunities to investigate both basic and applied ecological principles
at the community level, including fundamental processes such as
competition, herbivory, and predation. This exercise will make use
of microcosms to examine a variety of ecological interactions characteristic
of aquatic food webs by selective additions of phosphorus and/or
fish, thus focusing on trophic cascades and testing top-down versus
bottom-up hypotheses. It incorporates student use of quantitative
skills to enumerate zooplankton and phytoplankton, data collation,
and statistical analysis, as well as the concepts of sound experimental
design, adequate replication, and inference. Indirect interactions
within communities are also evident using this approach.
23. Individualized Laboratory Instruction: Problems and
Solutions in the Project-Based Laboratory
John Tidswell (University of New Brunswick)
Individualized project-based learning allows students to explore
their own interests within a structured context, simulates the real-world
situation, and places educational responsibility on the student.
Through presentation, discussion and planning exercises, participants
will explore the costs and benefits of this instructional method
and investigate problems and practical solutions. This workshop
will be presented only 1:30 – 4:30 pm.
Mini Workshops
a number of half-hour and hour mini workshops will be presented.
Sign-up sheets for these workshops will be available at the registration
desk. A sampling of the titles of the mini workshops to be presented
are listed below:
- Zebrafish Development: A Module for Introductory Biology Laboratories
Combining Direct Observation, Experimental Manipulations, and
WEB-based Resources - Physiological Ecology Lab Exercise: Phenotypic Plasticity in
Sun and Shade Leaves - Labs Don’t Have to be Wet
- Antigen-Antibody Interactions: Application of the Ouchterlony
Test for Determining Evolutionary Relationships - Using Simulation Software to Create Laboratory Experiences
in Lecture Courses - Death by Osmosis
- The Botany Field Site (WWW): A Herbarium Project and A guide
through the Northeastern Deciduous Forest
A welcome reception and buffet, sponsored by the College
of Arts and Sciences and the School of Biological Sciences at
the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, will be held on Tuesday evening,
June 1 from 6:30 – 8:30 pm in Elephant Hall at the University of
Nebraska State Museum. Meet new ABLE members and rekindle old acquaintances
as you walk among the world famous collection of elephant skeletons
and their close fossil relatives. Many of the fossil remains of
mammoths, mastodons, and four tuskers on display in Elephant Hall
were unearthed in Nebraska, including the world’s largest exhibited
elephant skeleton, a 14 foot male “Imperial Mammoth” from the Late
Pleistocene of Lincoln County, Nebraska. A life-sized bronze statue
of this mammoth (nicknamed Archie) was recently installed at the
main entrance to the Museum. During the evening you will have the
opportunity to take a leisure, self-guided tour of the museum exhibits
which interpret the natural, geological and anthropological history
of Nebraska and the Great Plains. The reception is free of charge
to all conference participants.
Date: Wednesday, June 2, 11:30 – 12:30, 115 Burnett Hall
Agricultural Biotechnology – Some lessons from my research on
the study of plant viruses. T. Jack Morris, Director and Distinguished
Professor, School of Biological Sciences, University of Nebraska-Lincoln.
Dr. Morris is a plant pathologist/biologist who studies the molecular
biology of small RNA plant viruses. His lab has pioneered studies
on the molecular biology of small RNA plant viruses of the Tombusvirus
and Carmovirus groups, some of the best characterized of any RNA
viruses infecting eukaryotes. The research is focused on the understanding
fundamental aspects of virus assembly, RNA replication and recombination,
and the molecular basis of virus-host interactions in plant systems
including Arabidopsis and tomato. His virology expertise
has been redirected recently as part of UNL’s team of researchers
focused on the genetic engineering of plants. The group is interested
in exploring novel ways to genetically engineer plants with disease
resistance and to use plants for the production of foreign proteins
such as vaccines directed against human and animal viruses.
Pow Wow
Date: Wednesday evening, June 2
Cost: $20
Dances and the ceremonies with which they are associated have always
been a very important part of the life of all Native Americans,
no matter what their tribe. Dances, or “Pow Wow’s” as they are now
called, are occasions for renewing old acquaintances, making new
friends, and when held on reservations, for reaffirming tribal ties.
The Pow Wow will feature an evening of dancing and singing by members
of several Southern Plains tribes. All tribal dances are preceded
by a feast for which the Great Spirit’s blessing is asked. In keeping
with this tradition, a light meal of Southern Plains Indian food
will be served. Shuttle buses from the Pound Residence Hall will
transport conference participants to the Lincoln Indian Center,
about 3 miles from campus, where the Pow Wow will take place.
Conference Dinner – A Tropical Experience!
Date: Friday evening, June 4
Cost: $35
The conference dinner will be held in the Lied Jungle complex at
the Henry Doorly Zoo in Omaha, Nebraska. The Lied Jungle is the
world’s second largest indoor tropical rainforest. Visitors experience
the sights, sounds and smells of the jungle as they meander through
recreations of Asian, African and South American rain forests. A
path along the jungle floor winds along streams and past waterfalls
which pour 750,000 gallons of water per hour into the jungle. An
elevated walkway takes visitors through treetops and offers a glimpse
of nearly 3000 species of plants and 125 species of animals including
free ranging reptiles, birds and primates as well as other mammals.
Dr. Lee Simmons, Director of the Henry Doorly Zoo, our host for
the evening, will give participants a behind the scenes tour of
the Jungle. This will be followed by a buffet dinner in the Tree
Tops Restaurant which overlooks the Jungle. Buses will leave from
the Pound Residence Hall for the one hour trip to Omaha, which is
located 60 miles east of Lincoln.
Pre-Conference Field Trips (#1 – 3)
Tuesday, June 1
ABLE conference field trips are meant to be educational experiences
for the adult attendees. Individuals age 17 or older who are accompanied
by a conference participant will be allowed to attend field trips
if space is available and will be expected to pay the full field
trip fee. All pre-conference field trips will leave from
the parking lot adjacent to the Pound Residence Hall.
Field Trip 1: University of Nebraska Agricultural
Research & Development Center – $25.
Agriculture is Nebraska’s primary industry. There are more than
56,000 farms and ranches ranging from small-scale vegetable farms
to several-thousand-acre cattle operations. Beef cattle, hogs, corn,
soybeans, wheat, and popcorn are primary to the industry. As a result,
UNL supports a great deal of agriculture related research and development.
On this field trip participants will visit one of the University
of Nebraska’s Agricultural Research and Development Centers (ARDC).
This facility is composed of 20 units including Ag Meteorology,
Conservation and Survey, Cow/Calf, Dairy, Veterinary and Biomedical
Sciences, Sheep, Swine and Horticulture/Turf. The faculty and staff
at the ARDC will give participants a behind-the-scenes tour of the
various units and explain the research being conducted in each unit.
Some highlights will include: a tour of the largest irrigated turf
research facility in the U.S., a tour of the 1200 capacity cattle
feedlot, a demonstration of precision farming technologies using
GIS/GPS, herds of cattle and sheep used in studies of reproductive
physiology and endocrinology, field crop production research including
both irrigated and dryland crops, a livestock waste composting project
which composts about 3 tons of manure annually, and a tour of the
“shower-in-shower out” swine facility. The ARDC staff have promised
participants an all-you-can-eat lunch and an afternoon snack of
ice cream and pop. Wear an old pair of walking shoes which you won’t
mind getting contaminated with a bit of “livestock waste”!
Field Trip 2: Exploring the Natural and
Human History of the Big Bend region of the Platte River – $25.
The Platte River originates near North Platte, Nebraska. where
the North and South Platte rivers join. From there, it flows eastward
along a 310 mile S-shaped course and ultimately empties into the
Missouri River near Omaha. Ecologically it is one of the most important
rivers in the United States. Plant and animal communities from across
the nation meet and co-exist along the Platte River. The Big Bend
region of the Platte in central Nebraska, is a critically important
stretch of the river. Each year, more than 10 million ducks, geese
and shorebirds, three-quarters of the world’s population of sandhill
cranes, and Whopping Cranes use this area to feed and rest during
spring migration. Staff from The Nature Conservancy and the Crane
Trust will lead participants on a field trip to explore the biodiversity
of the river and surrounding floodplain and outline the efforts
being undertaken to protect and manage the river’s resources and
surrounding habitats. After eating a box lunch, we will take a short
tour of the Stuhr Museum of the Prairie Pioneer in Grand Island.
The museum features exhibits which reflect the contrasting cultures
of the plains Indians and the early western settlers who migrated
through the Platte River Valley following he Great Platte River
Road – the combination of the Oregon, Mormon, and California Trails
which carried and estimated 360,000 settlers west in years between
1841 and 1870. The adjacent 40 acre living history Railroad Town
is patterned after those along the Union Pacific right-of-way in
the 1880’s. The field trip cost includes a box lunch and the admission
fee to the museum. Bring sun screen, insect repellent, and wear
a pair of shoes that can get wet.
Field Trip 3: Planes, Fish, and Wildlife – $25.
The first stop on this trip will be the new Strategic
Air Command (SAC) Museum, 30 miles east of Lincoln. The museum
features a world-class collection of aircraft, missiles and other
aerospace artifacts as well as a restoration unit where historic
planes are prepared for display. More than 30 historic aircraft,
including the legendary B-36 “Peacemaker” and the awesome SR71 “Blackbird”
are on display in two immense hangars. The second stop on the field
trip will be the Ak-Sar-Ben
Aquarium Outdoor Education Center. This facility houses 12 aquaria,
the largest holding 1450 gallons of water, which display fish native
to Nebraska or which have been successfully introduced. We will
eat lunch at the park and participants can take a leisurely walk
along the nature trails. The third and last stop on the field trip
will be at the 7000 acre DeSoto
National Wildlife Refuge which is located along the Missouri
River, 25 miles north of Omaha. The refuge hosts a large variety
of waterfowl, shorebirds, song birds, and birds of prey. In addition,
the refuge houses a fascinating archeological exhibit of artifacts
excavated from the sunken remains of the steamboat Bertrand
which sank in 1865, near the present site of the refuge. The field
trip cost includes a box lunch and admission fees. Wear walking
shoes and bring sun screen and insect repellent.
Saturday, June 5
ABLE conference field trips are meant to be educational experiences
for the adult attendees. Individuals age 17 or older who are accompanied
by a conference participant will be allowed to attend field trips
if space is available and will be expected to pay the full field
trip fee. All post-conference field trips will leave from
the parking lot adjacent to the Pound Residence Hall.
Field Trip 4: Ashfall Fossil Beds State
Historical Park – $40.
The Ashfall
fossil beds are situated on 360 acres of rugged rangeland in
the scenic Verdigre Creek Valley near Royal, Nebraska. Ten million
years ago a massive volcano erupted in the Rocky Mountains, producing
a cloud of volcanic ash that suffocated and buried rhinos, three-toed
horses, and camels around a watering hole. Whole herds of animals
died and were buried so quickly that their carcasses are largely
intact. Some of the best preserved fossil rhinos, horses, camels,
birds, and turtles known anywhere have been, and are being, excavated
in the Ashfall Fossil Beds. The Ashfall site has been featured on
the NBC Nightly News, a PBS special titled “Mysteries in the
Dust”, and in National Geographic magazine and the
National Geographic book, Giants From the Past.
Dr. Mike Voorhies, Curator of Vertebrate Paleontology at the University
of Nebraska State Museum, will be our host at Ashfall. Mike
was responsible for making the first significant discoveries at
the site in 1971 and has been actively working the site since then.
Travel to and from Ashfall will be by motorcoach. We will stop at
the Neligh Mill Historic Site for a casual box lunch along the Elkhorn
River and a brief tour of the Neligh Mill, a circa 1874 flour mill. At the
end of the day, participants will be treated to a meal of down-home Nebraska
cooking at the Green Gables of Pleasant Valley Restaurant. The field
trip cost includes a box lunch, dinner, and admission fees. It is
suggested that you wear walking shoes and bring along sun screen
and a water bottle.
Field Trip 5: Konza Prairie – $40.
The Konza Prairie Research Natural Area, located just outside Manhattan,
Kansas, is the largest remaining tract of tall grass prairie in
North America. The 3487 hectare (8600 acre) tract of tall grass
prairie is managed by Kansas State University. Konza is part of the NSF Long
Term Ecological Research (LTER) program. Major research projects focus on
the affects of fire and grazing on tall grass prairies. A managed herd of 200
bison serve as native grazers in research projects. Data collected
at Konza on the role of bison on the structure of tall grass prairie
was featured in the December 1998 issue of BioScience.
Transportation to and from Konza will be by van. We will make a
rest stop in Marysville, KS for a snack and a short tour of the
Pony Express Station Museum, the only original home station along
the Pony Express Route that still stands in its original location.
Box lunches will be provided on site at the prairie. Before departing
Manhattan we will stop for dinner at the Little
Apple Brewing Company which features typical mid-western cuisine
and fine micro-brewed beer. The field trip cost includes a box lunch,
dinner, and the admission fees. Participants should wear comfortable
walking shoes and bring along sun screen and a water bottle.
Field Trip 6: Indian Cave State Park and
Squaw Creek National Wildlife Refuge – $30.
This field trip will feature the natural history and geology of
the Missouri River bluffs and floodplain in southeast Nebraska and
northwest Missouri. You will travel by van through vast expanses
of crop land to Squaw Creek National Wildlife Refuge near Mound
City, Missouri. This 7,350 acre refuge is home for 31 kinds of mammals,
35 species of reptiles and amphibians, and 301 species of birds.
Migratory birds stop to rest and feed at Squaw Creek Refuge during
their spring and fall migration. The refuge includes areas of loess
bluff hills, an unusual geologic formation caused by wind deposited
soil. Some of the last remnants of the native prairie are found
on these bluffs. Refuge roads and foot trails provide access to
many wildlife observation areas. After a box lunch break at the
refuge visitors center, we will return to Nebraska and spend a leisurely
afternoon exploring Indian Cave State Park which spans a 3052-acre area
along the Missouri River. The park is named for a natural cave created by silt and
fine-grained sand deposits in a Pennsylvanian rock channel. Petroglyphs
or ancient Indian picture writings etched on the walls of the cave
are the only known example of their kind found in Nebraska. This
is a fascinating area with scenic vistas, hundreds of birds and
other wildlife, and many varieties of plants that are unique in
Nebraska. The park also features the reconstructed mid-19th Century
river settlement known as St. Deroin which was originally established
as a settlement for the homeless offspring left behind by traders
and trappers who married Indian women but later served as a trading
and supply post for river traffic. At the end of the day, field
trip participants will be treated to a cookout featuring buffalo
burgers (barbecued tofu for the vegetarians), corn bread, salad,
and beverage. Participants should wear a good pair of walking shoes
or hiking boots and bring along insect repellent and sun screen
Visit Nebraska
to come early and stay late to explore Nebraska’s diverse biological
habitats and historic sites. For example, the Sandhills occupy a
major portion of the western part of the state. These dunes are
the largest grass-stabilized sand dunes in the world and overlie
the Ogallala aquifer which bubbles to the surface forming thousands of small
lakes and wetland areas. For more information about the Sandhills
and other areas of interest to visit while in Nebraska, check out
the following web sites: http://visitnebraska.org/ and http://ngp.ngpc.state.ne.us/