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Variation in the Structure of Scrub Oaks and its Effect on Thermal Microclimates in the Albany Pine Bush

“ … Alyssa B. Silbey and Steven K. Rice Union College, Schenectady, NY Research … ”

Abstract

Thermal microclimates are vital within ecosystems because they contribute to forming appropriate niche space for many species. Variation in microclimates may impact animal thermoregulation and be especially important in the face of climate change. The goal of this study is to determine how the size and structure of Quercus ilicifolia (Scrub Oak) individuals influences temperature gradients in their vicinity. We hypothesized that differences in leaf density and leaf area index (LAI) would cause variation in the thermal regimes within and around shrubs (temperature gradients), and that shrubs with higher LAI would form steeper temperature gradients. Five Q. ilicifolia shrubs that differed in size (1-3 m tall) were selected within the Albany Pine Bush Preserve (Albany, NY). At each shrub, five temperature logging devices (iButtons) were placed 8 cm above the ground surface in a transect from the shrub center to the surrounding vegetation. At each point, hemispherical canopy photos were obtained to estimate canopy cover, and leaf area was measured by collecting leaves from each shrub; leaf area index (LAI) was calculated by dividing leaf area by ground area. Additionally, terrestrial laser scanning was performed by scanning shrubs to obtain a 3D reconstruction and to calculate shrub ground area and volume. Characteristics of shrub structure (height, canopy cover, LAI, canopy volume) were compared to each other and to measurements of thermal regime (average, maximum and minimum daily temperatures). Leaf area and shrub volume were positively correlated (r2 =0.96) and LAI ranged between 1.0-1.9 (m2/m2), but was not associated with canopy cover. Daily maximum temperatures formed a gradient from shrub edges to the openings, whose magnitude was independent of shrub size or leaf area. Likewise, temperature environments within shrubs were fairly constant, but there was a linear gradient from the shrub edge to the surrounding vegetation. On average, shrubs caused a 5.2°C temperature depression in the daily maximum temperatures. These results suggest that temperature gradients form independently of shrub size and structure, but are nonetheless present underneath and directly adjacent to shrubs. Overall, we have shown that TLS is a useful way to support field measurements of shrub structure.

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Avian Community Organization Changes Along a Gradient of Scrub-Oak Structure in the Albany Pine Bush Preserve

“ … Advisor: Steven Rice, PhD Figure 2. Total shrubland bird species … ”

Abstract

The shrublands within the Albany Pine Bush Preserve are subject to restoration strategies that result in habitats that differ in shrub density and height. We investigated how these differences affect shrubland bird communities and whether terrestrial laser scanning (TLS) is useful for characterizing shrub structure. Avian point count surveys for shrubland birds were conducted at five sites in the Albany Pine Bush, each site was surveyed seven times from May 31st to July 11th. Sites varied in height and density of the dominant scrub oaks (Quercus prinoides and Q.ilicifolia ). Shrub structure was evaluated using field transects and TLS. The most prevalent bird species were Setophaga discolor (Prairie Warbler), Spizella pusilla (Field Sparrow), and Pipilo erythrophthalmus (Eastern Towhee), which were recorded at almost every visitation to three sites in the middle of the shrub height gradient. In the site with the tallest shrubs, only the Eastern Towhee was recorded. Bird visitation data showed that shrubland indicator bird species prefer sites with roughly 50% scrub-oak coverage and a mean scrub-oak height of 1.5m. We propose that the high counts for these three species is linked to their adaptability to high-disturbance sites and their characteristic shrub-nesting and gleaning behaviors. Overall, TLS was useful in determining average and maximum vegetation heights per site, but more thorough field work would be required to learn shrub species composition or information about growth or productivity.

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Bridging the Gap with Music: The Fusion of Chinese and American Culture in Mando-Pop

Abstract

Chinese pop music, known as Mando-pop, has become popular in not only China and other Asian countries but has also made headway in the Western hemisphere as well. Jackson Wang and Zhang Yixing (also known as LAY) are examples of Chinese artists who have not only honored their heritage with their music but have also managed to become successful in other countries in both the East and the West as well. By combining different musical styles like rap, hip-hop, pop, R&B with traditional Chinese instruments such as the zither, gourd flute, and traditional percussion, these artists have merged the East and the West together. The artists have not only used auditory elements but also visual representations of Chinese culture through their music videos. The goal of this discussion is to explore the emergence of Chinese artists and the genre of Mando-pop in the U.S. as mainstream music, as well as how artists such as Jackson Wang and Zhang Yixing came to this success. This discussion will also identify the elements of Chinese culture present in their music and music videos, culminating in the final production of my own Mando-pop song implementing their musical styles. 中国流行音乐，被称为Mando-pop，不但在中国和其他亚洲国家，而且在西半球也流行。王嘉尔和张艺兴（也被称为 LAY）是中国艺术家的例子，他们不但用他们的音乐来尊重他们的文化传统，而且在其他东国家和西国家也取得了成功。通过使用不同的音乐风格，比如说说唱、嘻哈、流行、R&B、跟中国传统乐器，比如古筝、葫芦笛、传统打击乐器，这个中国艺术家将东西方融合在一起。这艺术家不但用听觉的元素而且用中国文化的看觉的表现在音乐电影。这讨论的目标是学习中国艺术家的出现和Mando-pop genre在美国成为主流音乐，也学习怎么艺术家，比如说王嘉尔和张艺兴，找到了他们的成功。这讨论会在他们的音乐和音乐电影识别中国文化元素，结果是我自己的 Mando-pop 歌的最终制作，会体现了他们的音乐风格。

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Experimental and Theoretical Analysis of Large Amplitude Motion in a Series of Aromatic Heterocycles

Abstract

A series of aromatic heterocyclic ethers were studied computationally, using DFT and experimentally, using chirped pulse Fourier transform microwave spectroscopy (CP-FTMW). 2-Methoxyfuran, 2-Methoxythiophene, 2-, 3-, and 4-Methoxypyridine were all studied computationally. Potential surface scans of the methoxy and methyl dihedral angles were used to characterize the internal barriers to rotation. Non covalent interaction plots were then constructed using the DFT generated wavefunctions to identify the important intramolecular interactions. CP-FTMW spectra were fit for both 2-Methoxyfuran and 2-Methoxythiophene, including several quartic centrifugal distrotion constants. Absence of observable splitting in the spectrum supports the hgh barriers to internal rotation calculated for the species. Additionally, the fitted rotational constants were compared to the DFT calculated values, which was used to verify the accuracy of the computational methods.

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Selma to Shelby: Voter Suppression and Its Damage to Democracy

“ … . Roberts, Steven V. “VOTING RIGHTS ACT RENEWED IN SENATE BY MARGIN OF … . 165 Keyssar., p. 265. 166 Roberts, Steven V. “VOTING RIGHTS ACT RENEWED IN … is simply not true. … ”

Abstract

The Declaration of Independence states that the government’s power is derived “from the consent of the governed.” Despite this grand sentiment, however, it has been up for debate for over two hundred years as to who should be permitted to participate in American democracy. The Fifteenth Amendment’s passage in 1870, while technically banning racial discrimination at the ballot box, was circumvented as the era of Jim Crow was ushered in. Literacy tests, character attestations, violent intimidation, and other obstacles disenfranchised most Black southerners until the Voting Rights Act of 1965 (VRA) was passed. Section 5 of the Act, which required states with histories of voter discrimination to seek federal approval before implementing changes to election administration, served as the first line of defense against suppression efforts for decades. This changed dramatically with the Supreme Court’s 2013 decision in Shelby County v. Holder, which rendered Section 5 unenforceable. This thesis investigates the impact of Shelby across the country, studying the rise in various tactics used to limit access to the ballot box for minorities. It posits that every American should have the right to vote easily and without significant burdens. The VRA proved that federal oversight is the most effective way to protect this right. For this reason, it is imperative that Congress passes the For the People Act (H.R. 1) and the John Lewis Voting Rights Advancement Act, as both pieces of legislation will protect Americans against recent and ongoing attacks on voting access.

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Avian Community Organization Changes Along a Gradient of Scrub-Oak Structure in the Albany Pine Bush Preserve

“ … none of this would have been possible without Professor Steven Rice for his support, knowledge, humor, and … Structure in the Albany Pine Bush Preserve ADVISOR: Steven K. Rice The Albany Pine Bush (APB) is a fire-dependent … Bush Preserve By: Sean Rigney *************** Advisor: Steven K. Rice Union College June 2020 … ”

Abstract

The shrublands within the Albany Pine Bush Preserve are subject to restoration strategies that result in habitats that differ in shrub density and height. We investigated how these differences affect shrubland bird communities and whether terrestrial laser scanning (TLS) is useful for characterizing shrub structure. Avian point count surveys for shrubland birds were conducted at five sites in the Albany Pine Bush, each site was surveyed seven times from May 31st to July 11th. Sites varied in height and density of the dominant scrub oaks (Quercus prinoides and Q.ilicifolia ). Shrub structure was evaluated using field transects and TLS. The most prevalent bird species were Setophaga discolor (Prairie Warbler), Spizella pusilla (Field Sparrow), and Pipilo erythrophthalmus (Eastern Towhee), which were recorded at almost every visitation to three sites in the middle of the shrub height gradient. In the site with the tallest shrubs,, only the Eastern Towhee was recorded. Bird visitation data showed that shrubland indicator bird species prefer sites with roughly 50% scrub-oak coverage and a mean scrub-oak height of 1.5m. We propose that the high counts for these three species is linked to their adaptability to high-disturbance sites and their characteristic shrub-nesting and gleaning behaviors. Overall, TLS was useful in determining average and maximum vegetation heights per site, but more thorough field work would be required to learn shrub species composition or information about growth or productivity.

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Water Holding Capacity in Sphagnum: Micro CT Scanning Reveals Differences in Pore Structure

“ … in pore structure Department of Biology ADVISOR: Steven K. Rice Species in the wetland plant genus Sphagnum … Rice … 4 ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS I would like to thank Professor Steven Rice for his dedication and passion for Sphagnum and … ”

Abstract

Species in the wetland plant genus Sphagnum engineer ecosystems by altering nutrient and water cycling and storage. Sphagnum plants hold water both internally and externally, with up to 80% held within capillary spaces among leaves and branches. Water retention and movement depend on hydraulic properties, which can be modeled within capillary spaces. These properties can help explain the water holding capacity in Sphagnum and how these differ across species. I used a comparative approach to understand variance in pore structure based on morphological characteristics using computer modeling and to estimate water holding capacity across species. To better understand external water holding among Sphagnum species, we used micro CT scanning to characterize the structure of pore water spaces within leaves and branches. Three species of Sphagnum were collected in the field, S. subsecundum, S. palustre, and S. pulchrum. These differ greatly in terms of cellular characteristics and represent distinct ecological groups in Sphagnum. Three mature branches from each type of Sphagnum were stained in Pb(NO3)2, imaged using a micro CT scanner and reconstructed to generate 3D model for comparison. Scans were unable to fully resolve cellular detail, but could reconstruct leaf morphology. We used a shrinkwrap technique to simulate the external water holding spaces within branches at different radii of curvature, which correspond to water held at particular water potentials (-1.07, -0.54, -0.36, -0.27, and -0.21 MPa). The ratios of water volume to leaf volume were calculated and were compared using ANOVA. For S. subsecundum, the mean ratio was 1.44 (n=3) and this was significantly lower (p=0.02) than S. palustre (2.22). Based on the Micro CT results for intra-plant pores, S. palustre holds more water across varying water potentials. S. palustre has a more compact structure leaf structure than S. subsecundum and S. pulchrum. The 3D concave dimensionality of S. palustre aids in pore water holding to avoid dessication. Understanding the mechanism that leads to differences in water holding capacity is helpful to understand the functional role of Sphagnum in ecosystems.

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Blue lupine growing conditions affect leaf nutritional quality for an endangered butterfly

“ … endangered butterfly. The Department of Biology. ADVISOR Steven K. Rice In this era of accelerated habitat loss and … in conducting this research. I would also like to thank Steven Fuller and Neil Gifford for collaborating with and … ”

Abstract

In this era of accelerated habitat loss and fragmentation, species with specific requirements for growth tend to suffer the most. One such species is the endangered Karner Blue Butterfly (Lycaeides melissa samuelis), which relies solely on the leaves of the Blue Lupine (Lupinus perennis) for larval fodder. Several experiments have suggested that Blue Lupine growing conditions may affect their suitability for Karner Blues, but results have remained inconclusive. Growth conditions may affect plant suitability through leaf properties—specifically, leaf nutritional quality. We have analyzed leaf tissue properties from Blue Lupine grown under different conditions in the field to (1) determine which treatments (if any) are most effective at increasing host plant suitability, and (2) better define the mechanism by which treatments aid Karner Blue growth and reproduction. Mature Blue Lupine plants were subjected to burning, deadheading, and mowing treatments at different points over a growing season. Leaves from these plants were then fed to captive Karner Blue Butterfly larvae and analyzed for leaf mass area (LMA), nitrogen, carbon, and glucose. We found that only nitrogen and nitrogen:glucose ratios varied differently over time with respect to treatment. Leaves from Blue Lupine that were burned on May 1st and harvested May 23rd through June 5th showed significantly higher nitrogen contents than all other leaves harvested at those times. This extra nitrogen may be responsible for observed increases in oviposition rates and the presence of a third brood in Karner Blues fed leaves from Blue Lupine that had been subjected to burning treatments. Thus, burning, especially early in the growing season, may be an important aspect of Karner Blue management.

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A 3-dimensional model of bryophyte canopy light interaction

“ … of Biological Sciences and Computer Science. ADVISORS: Steven K. Rice and Kristina Striegnitz While seemingly small … plant ecosystems. Communications of the ACM. 43: 84 – 93. Rice, Steven K. 2009 … ”

Abstract

While seemingly small and insignificant, bryophytes dominate a wide range of ecosystems such as boreal forests, rainforests, streams, wetlands, and bogs. Although rates of photosynthesis have been evaluated for a number of bryophyte species, there has been no evaluation of how variation in the three-dimensional structure of the canopy influences its function. To investigate this, I developed a 3D computer model of bryophyte canopy structure and modeled the light dynamics within the canopy. The liverwort species Bazzania trilobata was modeled due to both its ecological significance as well as its relatively simple branching structure. The model parameters were informed by measurements taken from actual B. trilobata specimens. Using the L-systems modeling approach, the model simulated a community of individual plants in order to create a holistic canopy structure. By altering structural features of individuals in the canopy, the relationship between canopy structure and function was explored. A nested radiosity algorithm previously implemented by third party open source software modeled the interactions of light within the canopy by simulating the scattering and transmission of light vertically within the canopy. The results from the model were validated against measured results of light attenuation in the canopies of living specimens of B. trilobata. The modeled canopy was found to have a much higher rate of light extinction in the canopy than the actual specimens. The source of this difference appears to be a faulty transmission function in the modeling software. However, despite a significant difference between the results from the model and the actual living specimens, the model was useful in exploring the unexpected intricacies of B. trilobata structure as well as highlighting the importance of transmission in the canopy. In the future, updates to the light modeling software may lead to a properly functioning canopy model, and eventually, the results of this research may lead to a canopy photosynthesis model to explore the connections between light intensity distribution and photosynthetic output.

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Does the removal of invasive nitrogen-fixing black locust in a pine-oak community ensure a successful return to pre-invasion…

“ … me to always … :213-216. Malcolm, G.M., Bush, D.S., Rice, S.K. 2008. Soil nitrogen conditions approach … … /woodland communities. Natural Area Journal 19:121-131. Rice, S.K., B., Westerman, and R. Federicic. 2004. Impacts of … ”

Abstract

The black locust (Robinia pseudoacacia) is a highly invasive, nitrogen-fixing plant. Black locust trees increase soil nitrogen concentrations, supplement soil nutrient pools, and enhances the rates of nitrogen transformations, all of which favor the growth of other non-native plant species and contributes to lower plant species diversity. In the Albany Pine Bush Preserve, black locust has invaded the globally rare pitch pine—scrub oak barrens community. Restoration has been initiated to remove black locust stands throughout the preserve in hopes of protecting the rare plant and animal species that reside there. The purpose of this study is to determine if the restoration of black locust stands ensures a successful return to preinvasion soil characteristics. Initially soils were collected from three different plots: pine-oak, black locust, and restored. Soils were then assessed for nutrient content, nitrogen availability, and soil fertility. To gauge soil fertility, plant growth experiments were conducted in the Union College greenhouse using three native perennial grasses. Plant growth results showed that there was a significant difference between pine-oak soils and both black locust and restored soils. Plants grown in the pine-oak soil treatments had the greatest amount of biomass with restored and black locust trailing behind. There was no significant difference between black locust and restored soils. Nutrient content and nitrogen availability results showed that black locust soils have the greatest nutrient content and nitrogen availability, restored soils have intermediate values, while pine-oak soils have the lowest values. Restoration efforts in the Albany Pine Bush Preserve appear to have been successful as restored plots display soil characteristics prior to the invasion of the black locust.

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The economics of disease ecology : a study of Lyme disease, habitat management, and cost-benefit analysis in the Albany Pine…

“ … Rural Landscape. Ecological Applications 5:353–361 (1995). Rice, Steven ; Westerman, Bryant; Federici, Robert. Impacts of the … ”

Abstract

The Albany Pine Bush Preserve is an ecosystem featuring sandy soils and forest fires. These soils create microclimates ideal for the survival of Ixodes scapularis, the tick vector responsible for transmission of Lyme disease. In response to invasive species, the Albany Pine Bush Commission uses taxpayer money for habitat maintenance to preserve biodiversity. Therefore, I examined the costs and benefits of habitat management in this habitat. Unlike most studies, this analysis values both biodiversity and Lyme disease abatement. Environmental literature suggests that habitat management can reduce the density of I. scapularis, and thus the risk of Lyme disease infection. Accordingly, this study measures the value of habitat management from a perspective previously unexplored in the literature. This hypothesis was tested by sampling I. scapularis population density throughout the Albany Pine Bush Preserve. Density sampling revealed that tick density was reduced by over 99% in areas where black locust removal occurred, indicating that habitat management can reduce Lyme disease risk in the Albany Pine Bush preserve. Values for biodiversity and Lyme disease abatement were derived from a contingent valuation survey distributed to individuals living adjacent to the preserve. These values were then compared through a cost-benefit analysis. Responses were used to develop upper and lower bound per annum willingness to pay values to create a range of benefits for the remediation. Costs were provided by the Albany Pine Bush Commission. A Net Present Value (NPV) technique was then used to evaluate the costs and benefits of habitat management in the Albany Pine Bush Preserve across a variety of cost-benefit scenarios. These techniques revealed that habitat management is a cost effective means of both preserving biodiversity and reducing Lyme disease risk across a wide range of habitat management scenarios, with all calculations proving cost effective. Net present values ranged from a high of over $537,000,000 to a low of over $7,000,000, with an average net present value across all scenarios of approximately $165,000,000.

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13C Composition in Bryophyte Primary Sugars as an Indicator of Water Availability

“ … Availability Department of Biology ADVISOR: Steven K. Rice Bryophytes (mosses and their … AKNOWLEDEGMENTS I would like to thank Professor Steven Rice for advising me through this project and … ”

Abstract

Bryophytes (mosses and their relatives) are a major carbon sink, and their productivity, is expected to be affected by climate change. Changes in plant productivity caused by changes in the climate can be tracked through stable carbon isotopes. This research aims to find a connection between stable carbon isotope signatures and water availability in bryophytes by examining the composition of 13C in soluble sugars and bulk tissue. Similar to trees, which leave rings of growth every year, mosses build up peat deposits, which can be used to gain information about the weather and water availability of a region. Information on weather can be determined by the stable carbon isotope composition of bryophytes. Atmospheric carbon exists in two isotopic forms: 12C (approximately 99% of the total CO2 in the atmosphere) and 13C (1%) and rubisco (the enzyme responsible for carbon fixation in photosynthesis) prefers the lighter isotope. Carbon dioxide diffuses 10,000 times slower in water than in air; consequently, when a water film forms on a plant leaf (particularly on moss leaves, which lack stomata) the plant will assimilate more 13C, as rubisco becomes less selective when CO2 becomes limiting. Differences in ?13C in plant tissues are caused by such discrimination processes. Studies have shown a link between carbon isotope signatures in bulk tissues and moisture over time periods of several weeks, but there is little correlation on shorter time scales. Soluble sugars are primarily the result of new photosynthesis and sugars that have yet to be 3 integrated into the bulk tissue of the bryophyte. The goal of this experiment is to explore the timing of carbon isotope discrimination in bryophytes and determine if a short--?term link can be made between carbon isotope composition and moisture levels by examining ?13C at soluble sugars. Samples of Sphagnum papillosum were maintained in growth champers under two water conditions (dry and moist) over a time period of four weeks. Each week, a sample of plants (n=5) was collected and soluble sugars were extracted from their tissues. The carbon isotope composition of their bulk tissues was determined and a significant effect of both treatment and week was found. Over time, wet plants were less discriminating against 13C where drier plants maintained the same carbon isotope composition throughout the experiment. In addition, a control experiment was preformed to find the carbon isotope composition of the soluble sugars.

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The Effects of Canopy Structure on Photosynthesis in Sphagnum Mosses

“ … . American Journal of Botany 95: 1366-1374. Rice, S.K., Gutman, C., Krouglicof, N. 2005. Laser scanning … bryophyte canopy structure. New Phytologist. 166: 695-704. Rice, S.K., Neal, N., Mango, J., and Black, K. 2011. … tissue … 3 ACKNOWLEDGMENTS I would like to thank Professor Steven Rice for his patience and flexibility throughout this … ”

Abstract

In open habitats, Sphagnum grows with a dense architecture to retain water; mosses adapted to survive in shade persist in looser canopies. It is unknown if there is a physiological advantage of such rough canopies in the shade, but they may have enhanced photosynthesis at low light angles as would occur during spring or fall. It was hypothesized that the rough canopies would have enhanced rates of photosynthesis at lower angles. To test this, a photosynthesis system interfaced with a custom chamber was used to generate light response curves. Preliminary results of the study found no difference in photosynthesis with light normal to the canopy, compared with light at 45° in naturally formed core samples-- a leaf surface would decline with the cosine of the angle. Experimental data using rough and smooth canopies showed no significant difference in photosynthesis between rough and smooth canopies (p=0.09) at all angles tested (90°, 45°, and 22.5°). Among angles, photosynthesis significantly decreased with the angle of incident light, but outperformed predicted declines. Other factors that influence light transmission within the canopy independent of roughness may account for these results.

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The effect of canopy organization on the photosynthesis of Sphagnum

“ … AKNOWLEDGEMENTS I would like to thank Professor Steven Rice for introducing me to the world of … Journal of Botany. 95.11 (2008): 1366-‐1374. Rice, S. K., D. Collins, and A. M. Anderson. … … moss ‘leaves’ to canopies” (2013): Chapter 9 Rice, … Linderbergia. 31. (2006): 42-‐53 Rice, S. … ”

Abstract

With climate change becoming a greater problem the ability of plants to photosynthesize and sequester carbon becomes more important for us to understand. Sphagnum moss stores more than a third of the world's soil carbon. Much is understood about the physiology of Sphagnum, but what is generally not understood is the effect of variation in canopy organization in Sphagnum: why are they both rough and smooth? This study examined whether different canopy structures influenced how the canopy uses different angles of light for photosynthesis. The first step was modeling photosynthesis in two simulated structures (rough and smooth) as the angle of light changes. Following Lambert's cosine law, relative photosynthesis was determined by integrating light absorbance and intensity of light the plant receives. The model showed both structures decrease in relative photosynthesis as the angle of light decreases following the same path. The second part was to test empirically using rough and smooth samples made from Sphagnum fallax. Photosynthesis was measured using the Licor 6400. Five samples, both rough and smooth, were made and each was tested 4 times, first at 90 degrees and then 45 degrees. The samples followed the model with no significant differences in net photosynthesis between the rough and smooth samples at either angle. When compared to the model, the rough, but not the smooth, showed significantly greater rates of photosynthesis at low light angles. Further study is needed to understand if there is a reason for the two canopy structures of Sphagnum in relation to photosynthesis.

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Analyzing Thermal Gradients Using Terrestrial Laser Scanning in Scrub Oak Habitats

Abstract

Thermal microclimates are an important component of natural ecosystems because they provide appropriate niche space for many organisms; however, they are not widely studied because of their small scale. Likewise, variation in these microclimates may significantly impact animal thermoregulation and plant physiological processes and be especially important in the face of climate change. The goal of this study is to determine how the size and structure of Quercus ilicifolia shrubs influences ground temperature gradients. We hypothesized that differences in leaf cover and leaf area index (LAI) would cause temperature under shrubs to cool relative to the ambient temperature, and that higher LAI shrubs will create steeper temperature gradients. The study was conducted using five Quercus ilicifolia (scrub oak) shrubs of varying height and structure in the Albany Pine Bush Preserve. Five temperature logging devices were distributed in a transect from the center of the shrub to twice its radius into the surrounding herbaceous vegetation. Leaf area and leaf area index (LAI) were measured and shrubs were scanned using a terrestrial laser scanner to obtain a 3D point cloud. This was used to calculate shrub canopy volume. The most highly significant thermal gradient present was in the daily maximum temperatures, showing that as one moves closer to the shrub center, the maximum temperature cools continually. However, the remaining temperature data confirmed that differences in shrub structure (leaf area, LAI) do not influence the magnitude of the thermal gradient. While the amount of shade cover did not impact temperature variation among individual shrubs, we found that there was a consistent temperature gradient from the center to 2x the radius outside the shrub. We concluded that temperature gradients shift independently of shrub structure, but are nonetheless present underneath and directly adjacent to shrubs. Using data obtained from laser scanning, we found a significant association (p2) and volume (m3). Overall, we have shown that TLS is a useful way to support field measurements, and scans could be useful in identifying shrubs to scale to a landscape-level microclimate model. This information demonstrates that there are alternative ways to study the impacts of climate change on a small-scale, and may provide the tools to necessary to map optimal habitat space for many species.

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Design of a Double-Dose Epinephrine Auto-injector Using 3D-Printing

“ … analysis), Steven Rice PhD. (scaffold removal), Jennifer Currey PhD. … ”

Abstract

This project involved the design and prototyping of an epinephrine auto-injector capable of administering two separate doses. Epinephrine auto-injectors are used in the treatment of patients undergoing anaphylaxis, an allergic reaction causing the restriction of airways and a drop in blood pressure. The timely administration of epinephrine counteracts these symptoms and can be lifesaving. Currently the only devices available to consumers administer one unit dose of epinephrine and are then no longer usable. In 30% of cases where patients undergo these symptoms a second dose of epinephrine is required. My design was based partially off the concept behind currently available auto-injectors featuring a compressed spring being released as a propulsion mechanism. The most challenging design concepts for me were to release and contain the springs, and to cover the needle after the first and second doses. The design process, as well as descriptions of the final design, are included in this report.

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Can an invasive species burn soil carbon? Black locust invasion and soil carbon in the Albany Pine Bush

“ … oak stands ( Rice et al. 2004). We converted g litter … 22 Rice, Steven K., Westerman, Bryant, Federici, Robert (2004). … ”

Abstract

Invasive plant species can have dramatic and pervasive impacts on ecosystems, from species interactions, to resource availability, to biodiversity. One such invasive plant, the nitrogen-fixing black locust tree (Robinia pseudoacacia), has had significant effects on the soil chemistry in the globally rare inland pine barren ecosystem of the Albany Pine Bush. We have documented a loss of soil carbon following invasion by black locust, one that persists long after locusts are removed. We hypothesize that the nitrogen added through fixation by the black locust increases the carbon flux from soil to the atmosphere. Because decomposition rates are dependent on leaf litter quality and carbon:nitrogen ratio, addition of the nitrogen-rich locust leaves may accelerate the release of CO2. To test this, we added exotic locust or native scrub oak leaf litter to barren soil or locust soil in a factorial design and conducted a 16 week lab incubation. The carbon flux of the soil was monitored every 1-2 weeks using a LiCor 6400 portable photosynthesis analyzer. The invasion simulation treatment had a higher soil flux than the native simulation and treatments designed to control for the amount of carbon added and the original amount of carbon in the soil. These results indicate that adding nitrogen to the soil by nitrogen fixation accelerated the rate of decomposition and the release of CO2 from the soil. Future measurements will determine whether there is less stored soil carbon in the soil. If more CO2 is released to the atmosphere and stored soil carbon is lost because of species invasion, this may indicate another mechanism of carbon emissions and may provide more incentive for management of nitrogen fixing invasive species.

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Biological soil crusts in a northeastern pine barren: Composition and ecological effects

“ … Rice, Steven K., Westerman, B., and Federici, R. “Impacts of the … ”

Abstract

Biological soil crusts (BSCs), otherwise known as cryptogamic soil crusts, biocrusts, or cyanobacterial crusts, are soil aggregations hosting diverse biotic communities. They are composed of cyanobacteria and algae, and generally have a covering of moss and/or lichen. BSCs are typically found in arid to semi-arid regions throughout the world, and are integral soil stabilizers, moisture retainers, and nitrogen fixers in these communities. Along with these factors, BSCs are able to impact germination and establishment of plants, either as an accompanying influence, or direct result of those listed above. BSCs have yet to be formally described in the inland northeastern United States, and yet they have been found in a variety of locations, including New York, New Hampshire, and Maine. This paper seeks to investigate the species composition of crusts and their effects on seedling germination in the Albany Pine Bush Preserve, an inland scrub-oak pine barren ecosystem in upstate New York. Crusted and non-crusted soil samples were taken from the Preserve and refrigerated at 4°C until use. Several of the crusted samples were sent off for analysis of their constituents, and the other eighty dishes (forty crust and forty sand) were used in the germination experiment. Three species of plants native to the Pine Bush (little bluestem (Schizachyrium scoparium), bush clover (Lespedeza capitata), and lupine (Lupinus perennis)) were scattered onto the soil conditions, with twenty seeds of one species in each dish. The results of this study supported our hypothesis that BSCs would inhibit the success of seedling germination, with bush clover and lupine germinating three and five times greater, respectively, on bare sand than crusted conditions. The crusts' ability to influence the presence of plant species suggests a larger impact on the whole ecosystem, as those that succeed will affect other present biota. Crusts likely contribute to habitat heterogeneity, given their apparent influence on seeds and the crusts' spatial variation throughout the environment. Further research into the impact of crusts in northeastern systems should be undertaken, as crusts' impacts are significant and may be different than those described in arid and semi-arid systems.

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Mapping Hemlock Stand Distribution and Structure in Otsego County, NY to Develop Site-specific Mitigation of Hemlock Woolly…

“ … have happened. I would also like to thank Professor Steven K. Rice for advising me on this project. And lastly I … ”

Abstract

The invasive hemlock woolly adelgid insect (Adelges tsugae, HWA) threatens eastern hemlock trees (Tsuga canadensis) throughout eastern North America and is an increasing threat in Otsego County, NY. Different management strategies can mitigate the spread and effect of HWA, but landowners need information on the distribution and characteristics of hemlock stands to inform their decision-making process. We used field sampling of stand structure combined with remotely sensed data to a) map eastern hemlock in Otsego County and b) model stand structural characteristics of these stands. This information will be used to develop and disseminate site-specific recommendations on mitigation options to land owners. During the summer of 2022 we used point sampling (n= 5-10 per stand) to measure basal area and density of all tree species from 21 hemlock dominated stands distributed across the county. Stand total basal areas were between 24 and 54 m2/ha with relative basal area of hemlock between 37 to 88 %. The majority of the stands were west to north facing and were at elevations ranging from 362m to 557m. Supervised classification was employed with the Semi-Automatic Classification Plugin in QGIS using Sentinel-2 imagery Level 1C ((09/02/2022) and Level 2A (11/06/2021)) on a training set of 81 plots. This classified the vegetation into categories of Cultivated Field, Hay Field, Deciduous Forest, Pine Stands, Spruce Stands and Eastern Hemlock Stands. We were able to map areas of majority eastern hemlock with 97% accuracy. Stepwise multiple regression results showed that Sentinel-2 bands can be used to estimate percent eastern hemlock, total basal area and total density all with more than 70% accuracy. Together a map of land cover classification and hemlock stand structural characteristics can inform land owner's decisions on mitigation of hemlock woolly adelgid either by cultural, chemical, silviculture and/or biological controls.

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The tradeoff between polyuronic acid content and photosynthesis rates in Sphagnum

“ … of Biological Sciences, June, 2011. ADVISOR: Prof. Steven K. Rice Sphagnum mosses often dominate peatland … climatic warming. Ecological applications, 1(2), 182-195. Rice, S.K., Aclander, L., & Hanson, D.T. (2008). Do bryophyte … ”

Abstract

Sphagnum mosses often dominate peatland ecosystems. Because of the low availability of nutrients in these environments, Sphagnum mosses have developed a cation exchange system within their cell walls to take up nutrients using polyuronic acids (PUA). Increasing amounts of PUA may come at a physiological tradeoff and cause decreasing photosynthetic rates. The objectives of this study were 1) to assess variation in polyuronic acid content and structure by analyzing component monomers from three different Sphagnum species representative of different microhabitats, 2) to investigate how this variation affects the cation exchange capacity of the peat moss species, and 3) to evaluate whether uronic acid concentrations show a negative association with maximum photosynthetic rates. Maximum photosynthetic rates were lowest among species that grew in nutrient poor environments. Cation exchange capacity was measured, with the species that grew in less nutrient poor having the lowest capacity. Cell walls were isolated, hydrolyzed, and an evaluation of monomer concentrations was done. The data from this experiment was inconclusive. While the protocol was shown to be an effective method to quantify the uronic acid content of the species, the analytical techniques may have been too simplistic causing the results to be skewed.

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