Cedar Trails Exploration Center - CAPS

For those 13-19 years-old, who might be interested in authentic research projects, this could be the challenge you've been looking for. It's the Heartland Bio-innovation Challenge at the KU Edwards campas!!! https://lnkd.in/eNzUjnx9

In support of Project Based Learning, Walmart chose a few programs in the district, including CTEC CAPs Bioscience program, as a recipient of monetary support! Thanks to Walmart for their support!

Biotechnical Engineering Kidney Filtration project update: Here are a few photos of the progress students are making in removing sand, soil, sugar, salt, and bacteria out of the slurry. The solution also has to be neutralized before submitting their product for analysis. Some methods are working well.

Biomedical Science students conducted a recombinant DNA lab to transform bacteria. To confirm that transformation occurred, bacteria were grown on agar containing IPTG, a compound that induces the expression of green fluorescent protein (GFP). The transformed bacteria were then observed under a light box, which caused the GFP to fluoresce. We expected gene expression on the first plate. The question up for discussion is, Why were there a few transformed bacterial colonies expressing the GFP gene on plate #2? Any thoughts? Plates Top to bottom 1. LB Agar, Ampicillin, IPTG, transformed bacteria 2. LB Agar, Ampicillin, transformed bacteria 3. LB Agar, Ampicillin, bacteria not transformed 4. LB Agar, bacteria not transformed

Biotechnical Engineering Students Explore Cutting-Edge Research at KU Edwards Campus On Thursday, Biotechnical Engineering students attended Biotech Day at the KU Edwards Campus, where they had the opportunity to engage with experts in the field and explore emerging research. Dr. Ashley Urban, Program Manager for the Intelligence Community Center for Academic Excellence (ICCAE), provided insights into the ICCAE program and the certificates available to KU students, highlighting opportunities for academic and professional growth. Dr. Ian Gut, Biosecurity Lead Strategist, discussed his groundbreaking research on the antibiotic Nisin and its potential application in combating Anthrax. An interesting fact—Nisin is also an ingredient in Kraft sliced cheese! Additionally, KU senior capstone students showcased their research through thought-provoking presentations. Topics included: ? The effects of PFAS, a “forever chemical” found in cookware and dental floss, on C. elegans ? The impact of BHB on inflammation in pets ? The influence of heavy metals on plant health This event provided students with valuable exposure to real-world applications of biotechnology, reinforcing the critical role of research in solving global challenges.

Bioscience Update: Biotechnical Engineering students are learning about chromatography and how to use columns to separate the protein hemoglobin and vitamin B12 from a sample of blood based on polarity differences. After completing research on kidney anatomy, physiology and the process of dialysis, they will design and engineer an apparatus that will filter out waste from a slurry of substances. Updates to follow.

Congratulations to Bioscience students, Parker Aucoin, Nahashon Njenga, and Ana Rios, for being selected to participate in this year’s CAPS Network Student Community Health Agency internship program. As a participant, students develop and execute unique projects designed to improve community health while receiving valuable information from professionals as they learn about the 5 pillars of Community Healthcare. The 5 pillars focus on Epidemiology, Biostatistics, Environmental Health, and Social and Behavior Health. Check back over second semester to learn about their progress.

Biomedical Workplace students completed their last rotation experience at Advent Health this week. During rotations, a student would follow a department lead for 2 hours to see what their daily responsibilities were. By the end of the semester all students complete all 12 rotations. The department rotations included Facilities, Imaging, Nuclear Medicine, Biotechnical Engineering, Nursing, ER, Surgery, Pharmacy, Physical and Occupational Therapy and Labs. Second semester, this same group of students will be completing internships at various locations around the KC area.

This month, CTEC is hosting 8th grade students from each of the district's middle schools. Bioscience students are teaching those students how to use a micropipette to complete the activity "What Color is Your Name".