Power Foods Cookbook...By Kimberly Parker

​For my senior capstone, I created a cookbook that demonstrated the use of healthy foods people do not get enough of. The purpose of this book is to inform people of the health benefits "power foods" can give us, versus "powerless" foods which do nothing for our bodies. On the second page, I wrote a note to the reader that said the following:

Dear Reader,

This cookbook was made to inform you about the power of food and how it affects our body. Every food out there has a power. These powers affect our bodies in positive or negative ways. I call fruits and vegetables power foods because they fuel our bodies the right way and provide the balance we need. I call unhealthy foods powerless foods because they take power away from us (our health) and they give no health benefits. A balanced diet is very important because our diet is what fuels the body. If the body is not balanced, health problems come about like diabetes, obesity, high blood pressure etc, and we get sick. The cure is in our food. If we eat right and feed our bodies what they need to function, we can be powerful people.


I hope this cookbook can make some people more aware of what they should eat and I hope it informs people about how crucial it is to have a balanced diet. 

Process Paper

For my senior capstone, I created a health food cookbook. This is not just a regular old cookbook, it is an instructional resource that I would like people to refer back to in order to remind themselves that a healthy diet is a key component to a hardy life. I chose to do this project because I found myself eating unhealthy and I see so many people eat unhealthy everyday. These people have no idea what some of these foods are doing to their bodies, and up until I did my research, I had no idea how foods effected my body. I wanted to make a cookbook to inform people that healthy foods didn’t all have to be nasty or bland. Eating healthy is not only beneficial for the body, it’s tasty and it makes the body run better, you can feel the difference. I put a note to the reader on the second page of my book, explaining to them why this book is so important for people to read if they are interested in learning the truth about food. Most food that people eat is out of bags, cans, boxes, and it is all processed and empty foods for the body, I like to call it powerless foods. I am well aware of the fact that people enjoy eating food, and that’s why they eat so much fattening food, to satisfy their cravings. But, over time, cravings can cause the body to become over weight and unhealthy. That’s why I have come up with healthy alternatives people can eat to sanctify their cravings, while eating healthy and fueling up the body with the right ingredients. 

I had to make sure that my capstone addressed all five of the SLA core values, inquiry, research, collaboration, presentation, and reflection. My project began with inquiry. I knew I wanted to do something with spreading awareness about healthy eating. I just didn’t know how I wanted to present my work. I asked myself a lot of questions about what I wanted to show in my capstone and how I wanted to show it. That’s where my research came in. I research different ways people have published their knowledge about healthy eating. I figured out that I wanted to construct and informative cookbook. I already had many of my own personal favorite recipes, but I also researched some more. I also had to research why certain foods are good or bad for the body. I collaborated with both of my mentors and kept them updated with everything I was doing. I especially collaborated with my grandmother a lot because we made all of the recipes together. I also collaborated with all of the people who were willing to try my recipes. My final collaboration with people with this capstone would be anyone who was to use and read my cookbook. I chose to present all of my work in book form. I have it as a PDF and as an actual hard copy document. I also have a few of my recipes on my health food blog I created on google. I can reflect on this project because I can take what I learned during this experience for the rest of my life. I now have more knowledge about food than I ever have before. This is very useful because I can now educate other people like my family and friends. 

There were many steps I took to complete this capstone. I first had to come up with the idea of a cookbook. Then I had to gather up all of my recipes and find more to make them my own by tweaking them. Then the fun part came in, I got to cook, make and eat all of these foods. I did extensive research about all of the power foods that were in each recipe. This is where all of my learning took place. Once I was done cooking and researching, I put all of my pictures, recipes, and information together to make my cookbook. 

I didn’t really bump into any major obstacles to complete my capstone. Whatever dishes I wanted to make, my grandmother and I made them, then I wrote about them. I used many resources to complete my capstone. I used some internet resources to learn about health benefits of the power foods. I used many healthy food resources to make my recipes. I also looked at some books and cookbooks to see what other people have done with it in the past. I am most proud of my information in my cookbook in this capstone. I spent many hours conducting intensive research in order to get all of my facts straight. I feel like if people actually take the time to read this book, it would be able to help many people, that is why I am so proud. I personally have learned so much from this process and I am so eager to share it with the public. I learned that the food that we eat has everything to do with how our body shapes, adapts, and functions. If I could do this whole capstone all over again, I would honestly do nothing differently. I am throughly satisfied with the way my cookbook turned out. SLA is a better place because I was a student here because I feel like as a student, I have a lot of useful information available to share with SLA. I showed this through the cookbook because unhealthy eating is a huge problem, even within the SLA community. If students and faculty took some time out to read this book, they would not only get awesome recipes, but wise advice about eating. They will also find out a lot about what they didn’t know about foods they probably eat everyday. 

Cookbook

Malik Tlili Capstone

Malik Tlili
Mentor: Ms. Rami

ABSTRACT
For my capstone I decided to think outside of the box. The beginning of the 2nd quarter a guest speaker from the “Women’s way” organization inspired me to help make a change in the world starting with my community. My goal is to enlighten my community about sex trafficking in the US and heavily emphasize awareness of sex trafficking in Philadelphia. Before doing so I researched the topic and discovered a lot of newfound information. Sex Trafficking targets a specific group of individuals while creating an environment that surrounds the victim that makes it difficult for the victim to make their own decisions. I have decided to specifically enlighten the underclassmen with all of the new research I have found. On December 24, 2012 House Bill 235 mandated the advertisement of the Nation Human Trafficking Resource Center Hotline. Since then I have printed out hundreds of flyers and distributed them to my community as well as informing them about the hotline and it's benefits. My senior capstone is to document how well a community can come together in order to achieve a goal of creating a safe environment for victims of sex trafficking.


Annotated Bibliography

Blancarte, Jody. "Anti-Trafficking Program." SafeHorizon (2013): n.pag. Safe Horizon. Web. 31 Jan 2013.

<http://www.safehorizon.org/index/what-we-do-2/anti-trafficking-program-13.html?gclid=CMiSwOvpkrUCFVCd4AodSF8A9g>.

 Safe Horizon is an organization that provides alarming facts on sex trafficking in the U.S. It also provides a thorough description of what exactly sex trafficking is. This source is what framed the type of organization we would like to collaborate with.

 Vejar, Ellis. "Sex Trafficking In America." For the Sake of One (2012): n.pag. FSO. Web. 31 Jan 2013. <http://www.FortheSakeofOne.org/>.

This source has interactive features that make you view sex trafficking in obscure ways. This source provided me with more personal stories and information on sex trafficking in America. I used these stories in the awareness presentation my partner and I are creating.

Padmore , Theda. "Human Trafficking is an international problem." Active Activism with Global Impact (2013): n.pag. The Defender Foundation. Web. 31 Jan 2013. <http://thedefenderfoundation.org/>.

This organization is the second largest enterprise in the Nation. It targets the most vulnerable victims (ranging from 4 – 19) and provides shelters and other essentials that these girls are deprived of. This source is incorporated into my final project to provide the sense of variety for change. This is one of many organizations that are conveniently available.

Brooke , Axtwell. "Selling American Girls: The Truth About Domestic Minor Sex-Trafficking." Forbes (2013): n.pag. She Negotiates. Web. 31 Jan 2013. <http://www.forbes.com/sites/shenegotiates/2012/12/03/selling-american-girls-the-truth-about-domestic-minor-sex-trafficking/>.

This article is written on how women are “sold” all around the nation. It calculates how much on average these people make and how human trafficking has become so large in the black market. It provides statistics on how these women are taken out of society and given a price. This is just extra information for our presentation.

Glenn , Booker. "Advocacy and Public Policy." Message Agency (2013): n.pag. Women's Way. Web. 31 Jan 2013. <http://womensway.org/advocacy>.

Women’s Way is the organization we are going to partner with. It provides an advocacy program that overall empowers women. Women’s way also works with domestic violence (sex trafficking), which is what our capstone is heavily focused on. They provide clothing and other essential items that the victims of domestic violence (sex trafficking) lack.

Renata , Nicoulin. "The Victims." Polaris Project (2013): n.pag. A World Without Slavery. Web. 31 Jan 2013. <http://www.polarisproject.org/human-trafficking/overview/the-victims?

This source provides inside stories from victims of sex trafficking. It includes how someone is targeted to the struggles of overcoming their obstacles. The stories from the Polaris Project acquire inspiration in the final presentation.

ALEX, WIGGLESWORTH. "Officials discuss why Phill'ys 'poised to become major hub of human trafficking'." Club Metro (2012): n.pag. Metro U.S.. Web. 31 Jan 2013. <http://www.metro.us/philadelphia/local/article/1157934--officials-discuss-why-philly-s-poised-to-become-major-hub-of-human-trafficking>.

This article discusses how Philadelphia must respond to the corrupt actions around us. Statistics show that law enforcements are not the first to respond to cases of sex trafficking. Sex trafficking is popular in most common areas like restaurants, gas stations, and super markets. Philadelphia residents should be more aware and reporting what they see to the authorities.

Organ, Hugh, and Carl Hill. "Philadelphia Anti-Trafficking Coalition." PATCOALTION (2013): n.pag. Modern Day Slavery. Database. 31 Jan 2013. <http://www.patcoalition.org/index.html>.

The Philadelphia Anti-Trafficking Coalition provides services to victims around the city of Philadelphia. The Philadelphia Anti-Trafficking Coalition describes the misconception of sex trafficking and how it is modern day slavery. This organization is in partnership with Women’s Way where they create foundations to help victims in the city.

Dunn, Mike. "Philadelphia Officials Probing Problem Of Human Trafficking Here." PHILADELPHIA(CBS) (2012): CBS PHILLY. Database. 31 Jan 2013. <http://philadelphia.cbslocal.com/2012/12/11/philadelphia-officials-probing-problem-of-human-trafficking-here/>.

This article is of the Philadelphia Official’s response to the rise of sex trafficking around the city. Many people around the city misunderstand the circumstances that women undergo. Also Philadelphia officials describe how to identify victims of sex trafficking and this incorporated into the final presentation.

Machuga, Laurence. "Man charged with human trafficking in Philadelphia." Local/State (2012): ABC Action News. Database. 31 Jan 2013. <http://abclocal.go.com/wpvi/story? section=news/local&id=8860941>.

This article is of a local in Philadelphia who was convicted of allegedly raping and forcing an underage teen into sex trafficking. This article provides the story of the young girl and how high the rates of sex trafficking in Philadelphia. This will be used in our presentation to help reach to students to be aware.

D. Kristof, Nicholas, and Sheryl WuDunn. Half the Sky. New York: Little, Brown Book Group, 2010. Print.

Nicholas D. Kristof and his wife Sheryl WuDunn have first handedly experienced and viewed the issues/circumstances women in Asia and Africa go through. The Novel discusses the revolutionary actions taking place around the world such as Micro-credit. This Novel is what inspired the capstone as a whole.

Murtha, Tara. "For Americans in the Sex Trade, Still Little Hope Read more: http://www.philadelphiaweekly.com/news-and-opinion/For-Americans-in-the-Sex-Trade-Still-Little-Hope.html?page=3&comments=1&showAll=.

This article discusses the journey of 20 year old Mimi living in New York. She has struggled through the sex-trafficking enterprise in New York and she enlightens the property on the inside look of the victims in sex trafficking. This article was used to research the prospective of sex trafficking.

Edel, Lionel. "Sex trafficking, prostitution & backpage ads." WHYY (2012): n.pag. RadioTimes. Web. 31 Jan 2013. <http://whyy.org/cms/radiotimes/2012/03/16/sex-trafficking-prostitution-and-backpage-ads/>.

This source discusses sex trafficking not only in Philadelphia, but across the nation as a whole. The article discusses statistics of the amount of victims both boys and girls. It also provides alarming information of advertisements that promote sex trafficking. This source was use in order to get more information on sex trafficking in the U.S.

Ki-moon, Ban. "Human Trafficking - Modern Day Slavery." NOVA (2008): n.pag. Network of Victim Assistance. Web. 31 Jan 2013. <http://www.novabucks.org/humantrafficking.html>.

The NOVA organization provides a safe line for victims to call when in distress or in need of emergency. This network is a nationwide organization that provides hotlines and shelters for women and men to use. This source is used in the conclusion of our presentation where we will provide “options” for students to use.

Attorney Office, U.S. "Philadelphia Man Charged with Child Sex Trafficking ." Federal Bureau of Investigation (2012): n.pag. Philadelphia Devision. Web. 31 Jan 2013. <http://www.fbi.gov/philadelphia/press-releases/2012/philadelphia-man-charged-with-child-sex-trafficking>.

The Philadelphia Division recently convicted Rashaad McIntyre for childe pornography and sex trafficking. This bust was very recent, occurring on December 14, 2012. This raises the awareness that this is happening in our own city with great stealth. This source is used to disprove the belief of sex trafficking occurring in areas around local families.

 

Matthew Ginnetti Capstone

For my capstone I decided to educate the underclassmen in the STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Math) field of astronomy. I have been apart of the Franklin’s Project S.P.A.C.E. (Scholastic Program for Astronomy and Celestial Events) team for about one year now and this project was sole centered around my involvement in the program. This was a joint capstone with students Allen Yang, and Winston Wright. Within Project S.P.A.C.E. each of us held a specific role with specific responsibilities where each of us specialized in a specific field of astronomy which we taught under class men about. Within Project S.P.A.C.E. we led mini courses where over the course of six weeks each of us instructed two different classes for about ninety minutes each. Derrick Pitts, the Cheif astronomer of the Franklin, along with other Joel L. Bloom observatory staff at the franklin mentored this project. The lack of astronomy interest and education within the United States education system is primarily why I chose to this project. Increasing the interest of astronomy to high school and middle school is one of the sole purposes of Project SPACE. Along with teaching a mini course, I also spent the year creating a prototype application for the the Franklin which educated users about the International Space Station. Below both the lesson plan and the prototype app are attached along with some photos of the class.


Click here to see application
Click here to see process paper
The Mini-course 

Screen Shot 2013-05-31 at 9.04.45 AM
Screen Shot 2013-05-31 at 9.04.45 AM
Bibliography

--Kennedy, John. "Moon Speech." Rice University, 12 September 1962. Speech.

John F. Kennedy's moon speech at Rice College clearly shows his indepth persuasive attitude as he pushes for travel to the moon and for the development of the F-1 engines. The speech dynamically explains the benefits of NASA and what they are doing. I connect this to how the government hid NASA’s actual reason of creation. In his speech, JFK talks about the job creation and about how mankind wishes to stretch itself. NASA’s actual mission was to create a rocket powerful enough to carry the United States’ nuclear weapons.


--Dryden, Hugh. United States. Special committee on Space Technology. Special Committee on Space Technology Report. 1958. Print.

Dryden explains NASA’s actual intentions of the space race. He goes on to speak about how rockets were beneficial to both the military and scientists and how scientific instruments could be replaced with weapons.


--Kennedy, John. "Moon Speech." Rice University, 12 September 1962. Speech.

John F. Kennedy's moon speech at Rice College clearly shows his indepth persuasive attitude as he pushes for travel to the moon and for the development of the F-1 engines. The speech dynamically explains the benefits of NASA and what they are doing. I connect this to how the government hid NASA’s actual reason of creation. In his speech, JFK talks about the job creation and about how mankind wishes to stretch itself. NASA’s actual mission was to create a rocket powerful enough to carry the United States’ nuclear weapons.


--Benwl, , prod. JFK - We choose to go to the Moon. Youtube, 2008. Filmstrip. <https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ouRbkBAOGEw>.

This primary resource video was used to show the viewer and help them visualize what the narrator was talking about. This specific footage was taken of John F. Kennedys famous “We choose the moon” speech at Rice University.

--CEVOrion , , prod. Saturn V - S-1C Stage Testing. Youtube, 2007. Filmstrip. <https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=f3sVuFjJlp4>.

This primary resource video was used to show the viewer and help them visualize what the narrator was talking about. This specific clip showed the static testing of the F-1 liquid fuel Engine.



--Howard, Ron, dir. Apollo 13. Universal Pictures, 1995. Film. <http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kgHYGw9OL7c>.


The footage I used consisted of the launch sequence of the saturn V rocket. The footage is completely computer generated but I feel it gives the most realistic experience to what the launch was like in High definition. In the Documentary I morphed together apollo 13 footage with actual footage of the launch, giving the viewers an interesting experience.

Exoplanets: Teaching kids about Space! - Winston Wright Capstone

          All three of us have an interest in some branch of engineering, more specifically aerospace engineering which is very important in interstellar space science. We aim to gain a better/more in depth understanding of the engineering behind space science (i,e. an in depth look at the lunar landing module). A focus on astronomy gave us a well rounded introduction to the different areas of student we want to pursue after high school. In addition to astronomy we did a lesson oriented completely on Astrobiology which offers an extremely wide variety of sciences to be learned. We most focused on exoplanets (planets that exist outside of our solar system) and what type of technology it would take us to get there. We also focused on the actual term astrobiology, which is a the study of the evolution/future of life in the universe. While helping others who might have interest in some of the lessons we  taught, we also cultivated our own interest in the related sciences.          
           The mini-courses were comprised of both lectures and power-point presentations, with open discussion being the majority of the presentation. Each quarter we turned in a lesson plan to our advisor to show our topic for a certain week. Inquiry and research stem from us looking at real data from missions of the Apollo program, for example or us tracking the status of yet to be determined exoplanets by the Hubble or Kepler telescopes. Collaboration came directly from our interaction with each other and how we choose to present/teach each mini-course lesson. We also took suggestions on what topics want to be discussed the most. Presentation and reflection will both be prevalent in our  end of the year presentation via keynote or powerpoint.


Annotated Bibliography

1)

http://i.space.com/images/i/000/000/467/original/earth-like-planet-100929-02.jpg?1290541923 (image)

Cook, Lynette. earth-like-planet. 2012. space.com, Ca . Web. 30 Jan 2013. <http://i.space.com/images/i/000/000/467/original/earth-like-planet-100929-02.jpg?1290541923 >.

This image helps depict the concept of exoplanets in other solar systems. In the Gliese 581 solar system there are planets that have the potential of being habitable planets. This helps explain the significance of exoplanets and how they can shape our future. Another important fact is that it illustrates the similarities between the artist depicted Gliese 581 planet and Earth. A blue ocean with green land masses. Most people think of Earth from an outside view as a blue sphere with green spots on them. Not all habitable planets have to/will look like Earth, but it would be easier for humans to adjust if the planet was Earthlike.


2)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BNLfNe12BKE  

Barlowe, Wayne, writ. Alien Planet. 2005. Web. 30 Jan 2013. <http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BNLfNe12BKE >.

Alien Planet is a documentary that brilliantly explains the science behind an exoplanet. It actually is pretty futuristic especially with the artificial probes that explore a planet called Darwin IV. It really displays the biological sciences behind a different planetary system. In contrast it also helps paint a picture of how an entire solar system would have to be in order to become another Earth.


3)

http://herschel.cf.ac.uk/results/gliese-581

Gliese 581. 2011. Herschel Space Observatory, Cardiff. Web. 30 Jan 2013. <http://herschel.cf.ac.uk/results/gliese-581>.

This is an image of compiled data that has been used to make graphic of what Gliese 581 would actually look like as a solar system. It is used in my presentation to compare with the Alpha Centauri system. Gliese 581 is much different from Alpha Centauri and our own solar system because of the large amount of dust that orbits the star. These will be the two star systems that will be used for my part of the minicourse.



4)

http://www.space.com/18089-earth-size-alien-planet-alpha-centauri.html

Calçada, . Discovery! Earth-Size Alien Planet at Alpha Centauri is Closest Ever Seen. 2012. space.com, Lisbon. Web. 30 Jan 2013. <http://i.space.com/images/i/000/000/467/original/earth-like-planet-100929-02.jpg?1290541923 >.  

This Image that shows an artists depiction and an enhanced image of the star Alpha Centauri. However, this doesn’t show the fact that Alpha Centauri is a binary star system. I will elaborate on this during my mini course week because the students will be split between two groups Gliese 581 and Alpha Centauri. They will have to research facts on the two star systems and which one would be better to send our first probe to. This image helps compare some of the physical differences between Alpha Centauri and Gliese 581.

5)

http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/3/33/ESO_-_The_Radial_Velocity_Method_%28by%29.jpg

The Radial Velocity Method . 2007. ESO , La Silla, Chile . Web. 1 Feb 2013. <http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/3/33/ESO_-_The_Radial_Velocity_Method_(by).jpg>.

This image helps explain the radial velocity method that is used to detect exoplanets by astronomers. The image shows the normal light that is given off by a distant star and then the light given off by a star if it was being orbited by a planet. The orbit of the planet tugs at the star making the velocity of the star dip. Astronomers can tell that the velocity is changing periodically because the light of the star will appear blue when the orbit of the planet causes the star to go further and red when the pull of the planet causes the star to shift backwards. The image pretty much shows the doppler effect in contrast to stars and their orbiting planets.

6)

http://www.nasa.gov/multimedia/imagegallery/image_feature_793.html

Berry , Dana. White Dwarf Star Spiral . 2008. NASAWeb. 1 Feb 2013. <http://www.nasa.gov/multimedia/imagegallery/image_feature_793.html>.

This is a more common example of a white dwarf binary star system. I’m using this image in order to explain specifically what a binary star system is and how it is important for the study of exoplanets. White dwarf binary star systems are really no use to astronomers and space explorers because they have no relevance to colonizing planets.

7)

http://www.astrobiologia.pl/eana/esaexo.html

"EANA: ESA Exobiology." EANA: ESA Exobiology. European Astrobiology Network Association, n.d. Web. 31 Jan. 2013. <http://www.astrobiologia.pl/eana/esaexo.html>.The ESA (Europe Space Agency) gives an introduction into what Exobiology does and what required knowledge there is to know about exobiology, beyond the word "biology". Utilizing many different ways to backtrack or unveil possible extinct life forms from other planets.

8)    

http://www.nasa.gov/externalflash/human_space/

Hanger , Scott. "The Future of American Spaceflight." Tulsa : 2012. <http://www.nasa.gov/externalflash/human_space/>.

This source depicts the evolution of spaceflight technology and how it will be in the future. It was created in 2009 and was last updated in 2012.

9)

https://astrobiology.nasa.gov/articles/2012/10/19/the-color-of-an-exoplanet/

Scalice, Daniella . "Life in The Universe." NASA (2012): n.pag. NASA Astrobiology. Web. 1 Feb 2013. <https://astrobiology.nasa.gov/articles/2012/10/19/the-color-of-an-exoplanet/>.

This shows how the different color of exoplanets can lead to scientist discovering facts about the material content of the planets atmosphere.

10)

http://en.wikiversity.org/wiki/Topic:Exobiology

"Topic:Exobiology." - Wikiversity. Wikipedia, 30 June 2012. Web. 31 Jan. 2013. <http://en.wikiversity.org/wiki/Topic:Exobiology>.Astrobiology is an idea that's currently in the process. Scientist around the world believe that life is or was present in millions of other planets, however through all of the extensive searching, there's only been few evidence of extra-terrestrial life out there. It's more probable to find remnants of them here on earth still awaiting to be discovered.

11)

http://cmex.ihmc.us/sitecat/sitecat2/exobiolo.htm

"Exobiology: The Search for Life on Mars." Exobiology: The Search of Life on Mars. N.p., n.d. Web. 31 Jan. 2013. <http://cmex.ihmc.us/sitecat/sitecat2/exobiolo.htm>.Exobiologist looking for answers on how life came to be on Earth. With the belief that it all started with chemical compound on our planet at its infancy that led to self replication. However that being 4.5 billion years in the making, most of the evidence has been wiped away by erosion, therefore looking into Mars for possible evidence, a planet with a thin atmosphere and has suffered less extreme deformation to its surface.
Exoplanets
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Sergey Kuznetsov Capstone

Development of a Comprehensive Mutational Pannel as an Effective Tool for Personalized Diagnostic of Medullary Thyroid Carcinomas

 

Medullary Thyroid Carcinoma (MTC) originates from mutations in calcitonin-producing parafollicular C cells of the thyroid, is a rare malignancy, accounting for 3-4% of all thyroid carcinomas. It occurs in a hereditary form (HMTC, 25%) or in a sporadic form (SMTC, 75%). The prognosis for patients with MTC is poor, as the tumor metastasizes at early stages; and the only curative therapeutic option so far is radical surgery. Genetic analysis helps identify inherited cases at a stage where prophylactic surgery can be offered to carriers of such mutations to prevent the disease. This approach may also be used to determine better treatment options for patients who are already diagnosed with MTC.

The goal of this project was to develop a comprehensive mutational panel for the detection of clinically relevant mutations in MTC samples. A total of 143 mutations (nucleic acid variations) in 8 human genes were selected from numerous papers and public databases and included into the MTC mutational panel. The selection criteria were based on the coding mutations (mutations that occur in the coding area of the genes) that were reported to occur in MTC patients and considered functionally relevant. Some of the mutations included into the MTC mutational panel (such as BRAF gene V600E mutation) were also described in other types of thyroid cancer, but most of the mutations were unique to MTC (such as all RET gene mutations). The entire assay design was carried out using Sequenom's online design tools (ProxSNP and PreXTEND (https://www.mysequenom.com/Tools) and Assay Design software (v. 3.1)).

The final file comprised from 115 assays corresponding to all 143 mutations included into the MTC panel. This file will be further processed using the SEQUENOM® Mass-ARRAY iPLEX® platform for DNA genotyping of clinical samples by the cancer research scientists at the Abramson Cancer Center of the University of Pennsylvania.

 




References:

1. Millis, M. (2011, Summer). Medium-Throughput SNP Genotyping Using Mass Spectrometry: Multiplex SNP Genotyping Using the iPLEX® Gold Assay. Springer Protocols, 700. Retrieved August 20, 2012, from http://link.springer.com/protocol/10.1007%2F978-1-61737-954-3_5

This paper discusses and explains the basics of genotyping with the using MALDI-TOF Mass Spectrometry. This was the first paper that I have read right after being given the project. After fully interpreting this paper, I realized that I am going to be able to finish the project on my own. This paper served as a guide to me throughout the process of doing this project, as well as while writing the entire research report. In addition, this paper was used to make sure that I am not saying something that is factually incorrect.

 

2. Gabriel, S., Ziaugra, L., & Tabbaa, D. (2009, January 1). UNIT 2.12 SNP Genotyping Using the Sequenom MassARRAY iPLEX Platform. Current Protocols in Human Genetics.

This paper describes in details the SNP genotyping method based on the Sequenom MassARRAY platform. It includes two step protocol (initial locus-specific PCR reaction, followed by single base extension using mass-modified dideoxynucleotide terminators) an assay structure and how using MALDI-TOF mass spectrometry identify the SNP allele. The paper is mentioned in the corresponded section of the Introduction.

 

 

3.      Ricarte-Filho, J., Ryder, M., Ghossein, R., Fagin, J., Chitale, D., Rivera, M., et al. (2009, June 1). Mutational Profile of Advanced Primary and Metastatic Radioactive Iodine-Refractory Thyroid Cancers Reveals Distinct Pathogenetic Roles for BRAF, PIK3CA, and AKT1. CANCER RESEARCH. Retrieved July 1, 2012, from

http://cancerres.aacrjournals.org/content/69

The paper describes profiling of 111 mutations in RET, BRAF, NRAS, HRAS, KRAS, PIK3CA, AKT1 genes in clinical poorly differentiated, anaplastic and radioactive iodine-refractory differentiated thyroid cancers. The genotyping method is based on the Sequenom MassARRAY platform. It was shown that RAS mutations were prevalent in primary PDTC, whereas BRAF was more common in metastatic PDTC and ATC. PIK3CA or AKT1 mutations were rare. The paper is mentioned in the corresponded section of the Introduction.

 

4. MEN2 Database. (n.d.). AURP Scientific Resource for Research and Education.. Retrieved July 12, 2012, from http://arup.utah.edu/database/MEN2/MEN2_display.php

This database was only used for its mutations list during the collection phase of the project.

 

5. Human BLAT Search. (n.d.). UCSC Genome Browser. Retrieved August 17, 2012, from http://genome.ucsc.edu/cgi-bin/hgBlat

The Human BLAT database was used for alignment of nucleic sequences. The sequences retrieved from COSMIC were inputted in the BLAT Database to be aligned with the rest of the nucleic sequence, as only a small part of it could be gathered from COSMIC.

 

6. Catalogue of Somatic Mutations in Cancer - COSMIC. (n.d.). Wellcome Trust Sanger Institute. Retrieved July 10, 2012, from http://www.sanger.ac.uk/genetics/CGP/cosmic/

This database was used to retrieve the nucleic sequences that were used as the base to be inputted in the BLAT database. As it is impossible to use BLAT database with only knowing the position of the mutation, COSMIC was used to retrieve the minimal part of the sequence required to find the full nucleic sequence for any particular gene.

 

7. Genetics of Endocrine and Neuroendocrine Neoplasias (PDQ®). (n.d.). National Cancer Institute. Retrieved July 12, 2012, from http://www.cancer.gov/cancertopics/pdq/genetics/medullarythyroid/HealthProfessional/Table4

This database was only used for its mutations list during the collection phase of the project.

 

8. OMIM Entry - # 171400 - MULTIPLE ENDOCRINE NEOPLASIA, TYPE IIA; MEN2A . (n.d.). OMIM - Online Mendelian Inheritance in Man . Retrieved July 19, 2012, from http://omim.org/entry/171400

This entry was used as the basis of understanding of the MEN 2A syndrome. It talks about the relationship between MTC and diseases such as pheochromocytoma, and about the basics of what MEN 2A syndrome actually is. In addition, it talks about what mutations are associated with the syndrome. It was specifically used for comparison with the MEN 2B and FMTC.

 

9. Jimenez, C., Hu, M. I., & Gagel, R. (2008, Spring). Management of Medullary Thyroid Carcinoma. Elsevier Saunders, ?, 15.

This MTC review was the first of many that I have read in the duration of this project. This review provided me with the basic information about MTC without which any attempt at actually finishing this project would have been obsolete. Many parts of the introduction are referred to this paper, as it was very influential. Similarly to many other sources, mutations were taken from this publication during the first phase of the project.

 

10. MacConaill, L Profiling Critical Cancer Gene Mutations in Clinical Tumor Samples. PLoS ONE (2009). http://www.plosone.org/article/info:doi/10.1371/journal.pone.0007887

This publication was one of many that were used only for its mutations. No part, except for the abstract, which contributed to the overall idea of the research report, has been read.

 

11. Ehsan Alvandi, Seyed Mohammad Akrami, Mohsen Chiani, Mehdi Hedayati, Babak Noori Nayer, Mohammad Reza Mohajeri Tehrani,et al. (2011, April 5). Molecular Analysis of the RET Proto-Oncogene Key Exons in Patients with Medullary Thyroid Carcinoma: A Comprehensive Study of the Iranian Population. Thyroid, 1. Retrieved September 1, 2012, from http://online.liebertpub.com/doi/abs/10.10

This publication was one of many that were used only for its mutations, and or one small piece of information. No part, except for the abstract, which contributed to the overall idea of the research report, has been read.

 

12. Moura, M., Cavaco, B., Pinto, A., & Leite, V. (2011, February 16). High Prevalence of RAS Mutations in RET-Negative Sporadic Medullary Thyroid Carcinomas. JCEM ONLINE, 95, 6.

This paper has shown a study where 64% of the patients that had Sporadic MTC were found to have a BRAF mutation in position 600. This is very unusual as this mutation is considered to be PTC specific. In addition, this publication has given additional context to this research report. Similarly to many other sources, mutations were taken from this publication during the first phase of the project.

 

13. OMIM Entry - # 162300 - MULTIPLE ENDOCRINE NEOPLASIA, TYPE IIB; MEN2B . (n.d.). OMIM - Online Mendelian Inheritance in Man . Retrieved June 19, 2012, from http://omim.org/entry/162300 

This entry was used as the basis of understanding of the MEN 2B syndrome. It talks about the relationship between MTC and diseases such as pheochromocytoma, and about the basics of what MEN 2B syndrome actually is. In addition, this entry talks about what mutations are associated with the syndrome. It was specifically used for comparison with the MEN 2A and FMTC.

 

14. hybridization, f. i., & (1989), I. e. (n.d.). OMIM Entry - + 164761 - REARRANGED DURING TRANSFECTION PROTOONCOGENE; RET . OMIM - Online Mendelian Inheritance in Man . Retrieved July 19, 2012, from http://omim.org/entry/164761

This entry was used as the basis of understanding MTC, and why the mutations RET gene are found in so many cases of MTC. Unfortunately, as with many other publications, no definitive answer was given. This entry was also used as a guide, to make sure that what I say about mutations in RET gene is factually correct.

 

15. RT-PCR., & (2003), M. e. (n.d.). OMIM Entry - # 155240 - THYROID CARCINOMA, FAMILIAL MEDULLARY; MTC . OMIM - Online Mendelian Inheritance in Man. Retrieved July 19, 2012, from http://omim.org/entry/155240

This entry was used as the basis of understanding of the FMTC syndrome. It talks about the relationship between MTC and diseases such as pheochromocytoma, and about the basics of what FMTC syndrome actually is. In addition, this entry talks about what mutations are associated with the syndrome. It was specifically used for comparison with the MEN 2B and MEN 2A.

 

16. Hazard, J., Hawk, W., & Crile, G. (1959, January 1). MEDULLARY (SOLID) CARCINOMA OF THE THYROID—A CLINICOPATHOLOGIC ENTITY. JCEM, 19. Retrieved June 26, 2012, from http://jcem.endojournals.org/content/19/1/152

This publication was the first time MTC was classified. The paper itself was not read by this applicant, however, due to its historic relevance, it was referred to in the first paragraph of the introduction.

 

 

17. Cakir, M., & Grossman, A. (2009, May 25). Medullary Thyroid Cancer: Molecular Biology and Novel Molecular Therapies. Neuro Endocrinology, 25.

This publication, alongside many MTC reviews, was used as the guideline for this research report. Many facts, such as information about Sporadic and Hereditary MTC were confirmed by this publication. Similarly to many other sources, mutations were taken from this publication during the first phase of the project.

Final1

Quinn Platzer Capstone

I’ve been drawing my whole life, and I’m always seeking to improve my art. For years, I’d wanted to draw a long running comic, but I always got distracted and rarely made it past the first couple of pages. I figured that if I drew a comic for my project, I would be more motivated to finish it. Drawing characters in new poses and environments and even clothing would expand my range as an artist. I looked up tips by popular webcomic artists, and observed the over time changes I saw in their artwork. Even in just a little over 30 pages, I have started to see a difference mine. On top of that, I feel a small sense of pride when I get ahead of schedule, which acts as a motivator for me. This ongoing project will continue to be a part of my life after SLA, and I hope to present a compelling story with great art to whomever reads my comic

Smackjeeves site
Teal Reef (accessible on school network)

  1. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Neuschwanstein_Castle

. "Neuschwanstein Castle." Wikipedia. Wikipedia, 19 1 2013. Web. 31 Jan 2013. <http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Neuschwanstein_Castle>.

Because I’m not very good at designing architecture, my School of Magic required a reference for the exterior view. I looked at several different castles, and this was the one I settled on. Of course the interior is entirely my own, but the exterior is heavily referenced from the images of the Castle. I chose this castle, not only because I thought it looked pretty, but also because I could envision a fictional interior for it. It was similar to Hogwarts in a sense that there was a great dining hall/auditorium. Unlike Hogwarts, I could imagine the rest of the rooms being built around that one large, all-purpose room.


  1. http://smackjeeves.com/

I love using this website. It’s a simple, easy to use webcomic host site, that enables me to have a set time that my comic will update. If I leave for a trip, I can upload multiple comics that will post themselves on time without fail. It also lets me track how many other users have added my comic to their favorites, as well as how many views my comic gets each day. It also allows for colorful, animated banners to be used, which helps attract readers like bees to honey. Whenever I update, people will see that banner on the section called “Most Recent” and will look into it.


  1. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mangrove_Monitor

. "Varanus indicus." Wikipedia. Wikipedia, 16 1 2013. Web. 31 Jan 2013. <http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mangrove_Monitor>.

In designing characters of less common creatures, I often browse the internet for animals that I like the appearance of. When researching the “best friend” character for my comic, I decided I wanted him to be a reptile of some kind. I’m fond of monitor lizards, and I settled on a Mangrove Monitor lizard because I liked their physical appearance. I later regretted choosing an animal with so many spots. Despite that one issue, I really like drawing him. The monitor lizard’s ability to pick up smells with their tongues makes for funny expressions, which helps amuse readers. That habit makes him appear rather adorable.


  1. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Spotted_hyena

. "Spotted Hyena." Wikipedia. Wikipedia, 27 1 2013. Web. 31 Jan 2013. <http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Spotted_hyena>.

In many of the anthropomorphic comics I read, the main characters are often cats of some sort, or a wolf. In order to avoid this cliché, I selected a hyena. I haven’t regretted my choice, but I occasionally need to reference the markings. One of the other decisions I had to make when choosing a species for my main character, Aldwin, was his personality. I wanted him to be a generally nice guy, but no clique leader. When someone has an idea, he listens. Considering that my “hero team” will have multiple females, this trait suits a hyena, since hyena packs have a matriarch, not a patriarch.


  1. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gray_Goral

. "Himalayan goral." Wikipedia. Wikipedia, 10 1 2013. Web. 31 Jan 2013. <http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gray_Goral>.

For my sidekick, I wanted to choose a very unusual animal. For that, I chose the Himalayan “Grey” Goral, which is related to mountain goats. It suits her headstrong nature and thrill-seeking personality. I also need to frequently research images, since I am still a little unfamiliar with drawing cleft-hoofed animals. I chose the Himalayan Goral specifically because I fell in love with the markings, which translate beautifully. Also because a goat face becomes funny when being expressive. Ulyssa is tough, and quick to anger, and often butts heads with people who want to do things a different way, traits that many associate with goats.


  1. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Northern_Mockingbird

. "Northern Mockingbird." Wikipedia. Wikipedia, 16 1 2013. Web. 31 Jan 2013. <http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Northern_Mockingbird>.

While contemplating a more complex character who toes the line between right and wrong, I decided that I don’t see enough anthropomorphic birds in important roles. Even then, most of these characters would be birds of prey. In order to make someone who’s a little more unique, I chose a Northern Mockingbird. There is symbolism in my choice as well. My character starts out being a bad guy, pretending to be a good guy. Mockingbirds are able to mimic the songs of other birds. I still need a lot of reference for drawing her, even though she has yet to make an appearance.


  1. http://www.britishmuseum.org/explore/highlights/highlight_objects/aes/g/giant_sculpture_of_a_scarab.aspx

"Giant sculpture of a scarab beetle." British Museum n.pag.British Museum. Web. 31 Jan 2013. <http://www.britishmuseum.org/explore/highlights/highlight_objects/aes/g/giant_sculpture_of_a_scarab.asp&xgt;.

This is one of the most important components I’ve researched for my comic. I needed a plot, a storyline, and a quest. In fact, the item which the entire comic is built around is based on this statue. The beetle relic with the potential to make the world destroy itself. In fact, I even named the comic “Ye Old Doom Relic” after it. Beetles symbolize creation, and transformation. I take this to new extremes, since that is what my statue was meant to do, allow anyone to shape-shift at will, though its powers became perverted and it uses those abilities to destroy.


  1. http://www.wikihow.com/Make-a-Webcomic

"How to Make a Webcomic." WikiHow. n. page. Web. 31 Jan. 2013. <http://www.wikihow.com/Make-a-Webcomic>.

I needed to to a lot of research before posting my comic. I already knew what site I wanted to use, but I wanted to be ready for anything. The biggest problem I had was picking a plot/story. I didn’t know what I wanted it to be about. I searched all over the web, but I never found any help in that area. I did find some helpful tips though! One of the most common tips I found was to get my comic “out there”, and advertise. This I was able to do without too much trouble, but I’m not exactly reaching my target audience.


  1. http://www.between-worlds.com/tutorials/comic_webcomic_basics.shtml

Fagin, Joel. "Webcomic Basics." Joel Fagin's Tutorial. Between Worlds, n. d. Web. Web. 31 Jan. 2013. <http://www.between-worlds.com/tutorials/comic_webcomic_basics.shtml>.

I’m including this site as a reference because of the in-depth instructions they provide. They include tips about how to set your comic apart from others, such as tips on how to lay out the comic, or how to avoid clichés. The author collects a bunch of tips that he found off of webcomic forums that are meant to aid comic artists that are stuck and need a bit of help. He also brings up a point that I always try to emphasize. If you’re frustrated with other artists always being better, then keep drawing until you get there.


  1. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Elder_Futhark

. "Elder Furthark." Wikipedia. Wikipedia, 27 1 2013. Web. 31 Jan 2013. <http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Elder_Futhark>.

Every fantasy comic about magic needs some way to cast spells. Often this includes a fancy magic language. Some people think of some sort of Elven, or latin. I think of runes. Runes are special in their own way, people generally don’t know how to pronounce them. This gives the words a mysterious vibe, and leaves the spells open to interpretation. I also like the shape of the letters. Only after I had used this set of runes in my comic, I discovered that the set of Elven letters that author J.R.R. Tolkien had used in his books was also available.


  1. http://resources.teachnet.ie/mmorrin/norman/town.htm

. "Life in a Medieval Town." Teachnet.ie. N.p.. Web. 1 Feb 2013. <http://resources.teachnet.ie/mmorrin/norman/town.htm>.

A simple description of the sort of things you would find if you jumped into medieval England. It also includes an old painting of a town’s general layout. This includes the position of the castle, how the shops and houses are placed, and even the sort of people you might find there. This is useful for my comic because of how many towns will need to design. One of the most important things I found in this site would be the detailed descriptions of what one of these buildings would look like, as well as what my characters would experience in the process of entering a city.


  1. http://www.facebook.com

On Facebook, I have a decent number of people I know friended. People that I knew from school, family, or friends of family. Social networking sites are useful resources for people like me, even though most of the people I know there are not very into my things. However, sometime people will share my advertisements with their friends, who will potentially be more likely to read my comics than my own friends would. I can post when I update, and I can even share little images and panels from my comic. Though it’s not as effective then an ad on a popular comic’s page, it’s a handy feature.


  1. http://www.tumblr.com

Much like Facebook, Tumblr is a social networking site. Out of the 250+ followers, I only know a couple. Tumblr allows me to share my little clips and panels from my webcomic, but it allows gifs, so my animated banner will continue to cycle on Tumblr when all you see on Facebook is a still from the gif. Tumblr also allows for easy sharing of my comic, since it’s much easier for followers to spread the word then on Facebook. One of my friends, both online and off, had followers that are very into comics and art, and he’s willing to help me promote my comic.


  1. http://www.deviantart.com

When it comes to comic advertising, one of the best places, other than other webcomics, would be an art community website. Deviantart is a place where thousands of users upload tens of thousands of pieces of art all the time. With the amount of activity, it’s not hard to promote your comic. I myself follow, or “watch” users who post comics on Deviantart. It’s a good way to promote your art. I use it to store my character color reference sheets, so that while coloring the comic, I can easily find what I need. I can also find stock and reference images to help me when I need it.


Pauline Garcia Capstone

My name is Pauline Garcia and I am a senior in Science Leadership Academy. For my capstone, I decided to work on the human brain. Knowing that the brain is the control center of our body, I wanted to go through the basic function of how our brain works. Learning the complexity of the human brain, I used my time every Wednesday to learn its functions. The reason why I picked this subject for my capstone is because I wanted to pursue a career in Neurology. I figured out that since I would love to be a neurologist in the future or in medical field, I might as well start early and learn about the basic functions of the human brain. Throughout the whole year of learning, I gathered twenty pages of information about the functions of the brain. It has been a rollercoaster ride trying to understand and learn the complexity of our brain but it was all worth it.

Snippet of the whole research paper

Bibliography

Freudenrich, Craig, and Robynne Boyd. "How Your Brain Works." HowStuffWorks. How Stuff Works?, n.d. Web. 31 Jan. 2013. <http://science.howstuffworks.com/life/inside-the-mind/human-brain/brain3.htm>.

This site helped me understand and review how each parts of the brain functions. The articles have 10 pages worth of information from the four main parts of the brain to the brain stem and why they are water in the brain. It only doesn’t focus on one part of the brain but also link the information with the smaller parts. This website is really helpful to me because I feel like I should just format my project like this. Make a website and let all the information live in there for the sake of other people who are also interested with the human brain. 
_____


"Human Brain Structure." Human Brain Structure. News Medical, n.d. Web. 31 Jan. 2013. <http://www.news-medical.net/health/Human-Brain-Structure.aspx>.
I actually like this site because it have so much more articles that I can choose from about the brain.  It talks about the structure, diseases, cures, and the little parts of the brain. It’s a great website to gather basic information about the brain. They’re not as detailed like my first source was but it still do the job because I can still add more simple explanation about the brain which is going to be awesome because everyone can understand it.
_____

"Neurological Control." Brain Explorer. Lundbeck Institute, n.d. Web. 31 Jan. 2013. <http://www.brainexplorer.org/neurological_control/Neurological_Neurotransmitters.shtml>.
This is more about the neurotransmitters and which are the excitatory and inhibitory. This information helps me to explain further information about the brain and how it works. I can’t talk about the nerves of the brain if i’m not going to talk about the neurotransmitters. Neurotransmitters are the signals and the ones that keeps up hyper or calm so I wanted to add these information in my project.
____

"What Can You Do Without a Brain?" YouTube. YouTube, 24 Oct. 2012. Web. 31 Jan. 2013. <http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3teflb1QNN4>.
Another video but this is not really a primary resource. Anyway, this video is pretty cool because it talks about what would happen if we do not have a brain. It also gives examples about animals and insects who lived even then it doesn’t have any heads. In addition, he  also explained why it worked and how it will not work.
_____

"Brain Diseases."
WebMD. WebMD, n.d. Web. 01 Feb. 2013. <http://www.webmd.com/brain/brain-diseases?page=2>.

I would like to add brain diseases and how they are triggered or how they are affecting the brain. Adding this to my project will be great because it will show how the brain function when there are something wrong with it. I would also like to point out the different parts of the brain that are affected depending to the diseases.
_____

Vermillion, Franchesca. "A List of Fatal Human Brain Diseases." LIVESTRONG.COM. Dr. Franchesca Vermillion, 13 Mar. 2011. Web. 01 Feb. 2013. <http://www.livestrong.com/article/106901-list-fatal-human-brain-diseases/>.
I wanted to add the most fatal brain diseases and the incurable ones so that people knows what’s going to happen and the further research that the scientists  are doing. I think this will be helpful in my project because I am making people aware of these diseases and maybe letting them know how to prevent these illnesses, at least.
_____

PBS. PBS, n.d. Web. 01 Feb. 2013. <http://www.pbs.org/wnet/brain/3d/>.
I actually like this site because it gives me different views of the brain. The other brain anatomy video that I have is great but I feel like it’s also messy because it’s a real human brain that they’re working with. For this one, its more polished and distinct on the parts. It’s nice to have the best of both worlds so I wanted to add this site to the things that i wanted to use because it is distinct.
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Bailey, Regina. "Anatomy of The Brain." About.com Biology. About.com, n.d. Web. 01 Feb. 2013. <http://biology.about.com/od/humananatomybiology/a/anatomybrain.htm>.
I actually like this site because it have so much more articles that I can choose from about the brain.  It talks about the structure, diseases, cures, and the little parts of the brain. It’s a great website to gather basic information about the brain. They’re not as detailed like my first source was but it still do the job because I can still add more simple explanation about the brain which is going to be awesome because everyone can understand it.
_____

"Â anatomy of the Brain." Brain Anatomy. N.p., n.d. Web. 01 Feb. 2013. <http://www.mayfieldclinic.com/PE-AnatBrain.htm>.
I actually like this site because it gives me different views of the brain. The other brain anatomy video that I have is great but I feel like it’s also messy because it’s a real human brain that they’re working with. For this one, its more polished and distinct on the parts. It’s nice to have the best of both worlds so I wanted to add this site to the things that i wanted to use because it is distinct.
 

Dylan Cordivari - Capstone

Process Paper:

For this project I wanted to test my limits as a director, actor, writer and camera worker. I wanted to emphasize my leadership skills in a way that would not only help myself but help and benefit others and those around me. When this project started I had many visions that would and would not come to pass, but I never let that stop me. During the capstone process I created and designed my own production company with my own notorious crew of misfits making films and learning how to better our skills. We started out sophomore year as some friends with basic knowledge of film and the heart to keep learning. By the time I got to senior year I was looked up to in film by a lot of the under class intro students, so i took it upon myself as part of representing Bad Habbit' to SAT in my spare time for Herman's digital video intro class. I try to teach even the kids that aren't in my ILP that I instruct. With that being addressed I have strained to teach anyone who needs film help despite not having the time or energy to do so. I have been working hard to make films by writing, directing, filming and acting with Jesús, Joseph, Steven and Jenny. Aside from teaching, learning and making films we also wanted to try being more professional and scored ourselves our first film job where we filmed a party event for a company that holds parties and vacations for the mentally disabled. We filmed the whole event and edited a video for them to use and hand out to their customers and future customers. This gave me a lot of confidence in film and was something that made me strive even more for my future film career. 


    In the end I chose this as my capstone because it was a huge part of my life and my life as a student as SLA, without which I would never have started on the path of film. The project just sort of spoke to me, I wanted to teach and learn and make films that I could show people and be proud of. When i set out to do this project all I wanted was recognition for not just myself, but also for my crew. I wanted us to be known as the kids who were good with film and could help teach and train others to do the same. I chose this because it worked and was something I had been working on extremely hard and making it my capstone gave me more room to work on it and make it an even bigger thing that what it was when we started. The goal of this for me was to simply make something out of nothing and create something I was proud of. This project was not easy we ran into fights and other issues along the way, but we all came out of it having worked hard and created something great that we plan to continue to work on both in and out of SLA with and without rough cut through out our time together over the next few years. 


When it comes to the core values of SLA I think my capstone did a good job of covering all of them at once. Inquiry in our ability to strive to continue to learn film throughout the whole process, Research in the loads of reading, watching videos and learning hands on about film and the things i searched for for inspiration, Collaboration is evident from the shared capstone I had with Jesús as well as the students we worked with and taught, Presentation in the fact that we created videos that were presented to the public and shared all over social media and reflection in the fact that after we finished each film we talked about what we could improve or innovate so when we went to film our next work it would be better and would show that we are also getting better. This capstone was for us and also the students of SLA. 


When we set about creating this capstone I had already been working with the ILP and making films for two years so I had a very good idea of what I wanted to do. First was our company workers. I had to recruit a crew and that was going to be simple. I had Joe Tartaglia as my co-director, Jesús as my partner/ co-founder as well as chief editor, Jenny Cruz as my make-up and costume design and Steven Webb as one of my star actors as well as various extras. My next step was research for inspiration and skills. When inspiration struck Jesús and I would sit down and design a story and script after we finished this process we brought it to the crew and got ready to create our film we then went through pre-production and production phases. During post production jesús and I would sit down to edit our footage. Once we had a final product I would upload it to youtube.com Facebook as well as various other social media. This was our process through the year and on the side i would teach small lessons for choreography and film work to the crew so they knew what they were doing as well. This was a process throughout the year.


Throughout this process we encountered a lot of obstacles the ones that really hindered us were the amount of school work we had making a imbalance in time to work on the project. We also had an issue with teenage drama that did make for some very difficult working conditions. We also had a problem with technical issues that put us behind for time. We needed to fix these issue unfortunately we couldn't stop the course load of work so we decided to incorporate our digital video assignments with our company so we could have access to more people and better ideas. When it came down to drama we had to replace certain people or let people leave temporarily until things were better and finally for the technical issue we had to back up our files better and put a better lock down on our software and footage to keep it safe. 


When i was trying to complete my capstone I had to work hard and find lots of different things to help me as I went along. This was hard because I hate working really hard and its not always easy to find the right resources. I had to find something to help me with ideas and motivate me to keep doing what I was doing and although I found a bunch of small stuff along the way it seemed nearly impossible to find it. That s when it finally hit me and I had realized my best resource was right under my nose the whole time. I loved to watch Rooster Teeth Productions' videos and CG work as well as their podcasts and buy their merchandise. They were the perfect example of what I wanted our company to be like. They started as a bunch of video game playing friends that got together and made films using their video games and from there they went on to become famous and sell tons of their stuff as well as please a giant audience of viewers. I researched everything that they did over time so I could stay inspired and continue to aspire. 


The things I am most proud of about this capstone are my fellow students that I watched work super hard and get better and better as the year went by. This made me feel good about myself and the project because the thing I really cared about in this project was to make film and to help those around me do so as well. I learned so much from this process about myself and film and art as well as that with work, friendship and the mindset to do something anything is possible.  If I could do this project again I would have strived to not let drama get into the way of our work and I would have tried harder to please those around me so they had a easier fun time with the film we produced. SLA may not exactly be a better place because of me but I feel as if i brought at least some type of memorable flare to my work and to my friends around me and that is really all I care about. I hope that in doing this project I would have made more students comfortable making films and maybe even inspired some people to make films as much as I do. 

  

 Abstract:

  For this capstone I had a vision and I knew exactly what I wanted to do. Although a lot of things changed during this process the hopes and dreams of my peers and I never faded. We set out sophomore year as two art students with a bunch of ridiculous ideas in our heads, Jesús and I built the show Dylan's dumpster and not long after with it a free form digital video ILP. We created a show and built up a cast. Once I realized that I was capable of making something like that I set out on a career path that no once has been able to stop me in. I work hard to press my limits in film and created my best work possible. I decided to team up with Jesús for a new project and once we built Members Only productions, he left and I had to build a new cast. Joseph Tartaglia helped me achieve this goal and became my new partner. Together we created and whole new line of short films and trailers for our audience amusement. That was the entirety of my sophomore and junior year. Senior year I still had the same dream and Joe had become just as motivated as me. I wanted to make a capstone that would be inclusive and would produce great work. Together with Jesús and Joe I set out to make Bad Habbit' productions our new company. We started making some new films right away that grew from digital video and our ILP sessions with other students. We filmed our trailer for a zombie film called complication Z to start up our new year and that became a great success to us. We filmed all over the city in random woods and abandon train track to in houses and school. I pushed my limits with my ability to work the camera to almost a perfection. I even make sure as part of representing my company that I take away my x2 lunch on occasion to help SAT Mr. Herman's digital video intro class. I like to teach as well as work in every other field of the job so I took this year to take up everything at least once. I worked with make up, directing, acting, filming, editing, stunts, prop making, choreography and script writing. This was a challenge but I loved every minute of it and teaching it to those around me made me feel even better. That was what I set out to do for this capstone I wanted to teach film while at the same time prove that with help I can produce a whole lot of funny and credible films. I do have visions for the future of coming back to further help teach when I have free time and helping joe run Bad Habbit' from the outside while he keeps the ILP running for the underclassmen including Marshal woodruff who will possibly be our future chief editor to take over for jesús if he accepts our offer. We wanted him to feel welcome in a community of film students that want to make films with him as well as Joe who will be taking over for me and some other future juniors as well as hopefully some sophomores that may be interested. This as well as our outside business working professional jobs is off to a great start, but it is still only a start we have worked hard this year and I have strived to make this as perfect as I could and I am very proud of the work my team has made and of my capstone's message and affect in digital video classes. 

Capstone Products:

- ​Cordivari , Dylan, dir. Cray-4: Regaining the fame. Bad Habbit' Productions , 2012. Film.  May 2013. <https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=L9EqyXperkE>.

Cordivari , Dylan, dir. Complication Z. Bad Habbit, 2012. Film.  May 2013. <https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cu_bV25u2TY>.

Cordivari , Dylan, dir. Grande getaways: Christmas Party. Bad Habbit, 2013. Film.  May 2013. <https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LcskgtSF4Es>.

Cordivari , Dylan, dir. Joe's Fantastic day: Part 2. Bad Habbit, 2013. Film.  ay 2013. <https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_q7KhyJGZO4>.\

Cordivari , Dylan, dir. A love found is a love lost. Bad Habbit, 2013. Film.  May 2013. <https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jGhxXfu62VM>. 

Cordivari , Dylan . "Bad Habbit's Productions channel."Itschannel69. Bad Habbit's Productions , n. d. Web. May. 2013. <https://www.youtube.com/user/ItsChannel69>.


Bibliography:

"Film Job info." FIlm Job Info. N.p.. Web.  January 2013. <http://filmjob.info/>.

"Professional Careers in Cinema Production in Portugal: Different Contexts, Generations and Gender."gender-research.net. Portuga- Film Production . Web. May 2013. <http://www.gender-research.net/web/files/53/en/CB_FP_Portugal.pdf>.

Mitchell, Angela. "Stage Makeup 101." about.com. N.p.. Web. January 2013. <http://performingarts.about.com/od/Industry-Tips/ht/Stage-Makeup-101.htm>.

Miller, Gerri. ""Stunt and Fighting Choregraphy."Entertainment.Howstuffwork.com. N.p.. Web. march 2013. <http://entertainment.howstuffworks.com/inside-3005.htm>.

"Basics of Screen writing." Movieoutline.com. N.p.. Web.  April 2013. <http://www.movieoutline.com/articles/scriptwriting-for-beginners-learning-the-basics-of-screenwriting.html>.

"Basic Acting techniques." ace-your-audition.com. Night Owl Media, LLC.. Web. May 2013. <http://www.ace-your-audition.com/acting-techniques.html>.

"Basics of Camera work ." indie-film-making.com. N.p.. Web. May 2013. <http://www.indie-film-making.com/basic-video-camera-technique/>.

"Making short films." making-short-films. N.p.. Web. May 2013. <http://www.making-short-films.com/>.

"10 tips for designing a logo that doesn't suck."Designshack.com. N.p.. Web. May 2013. <http://designshack.net/articles/inspiration/10-tips-for-designing-logos-that-dont-suck/>.

"Saturday Night Live." nbc.com. NBC. Web.  May 2013. <http://www.nbc.com/saturday-night-live/video/ source=Reso_SNL_AlwaysOn&hcoref=search&WT.srch=Google&mkwid
=C3Hx6zfD|pcrid|22553084904|pkw|snl|pmt|e>.







Matthew Rinaldi Capstone

​Link: http://www.mightypost.org/one-small-step-for-the-vgas/

Abstract: I've only recently discovered my passion for writing. I know I wanted to further improve my skills as a writer, but I didn't really know the right steps to take. That is where the Mighty Post comes in. It is an outlet in which I can write what I wanted to write most about: video games. The Mighty Post has not only helped with improving my techniques as a writer, but it has taught me the experience and skill set that is required to help me break into the field of journalism. Throughout the year I have been in the Mighty Post, I have slowly built up a portfolio of my work which exists on the website. Through this project, I want to show people to never doubt there dreams and aspirations. Video game journalism is something that is still scoffed at by many people due to the focal point of video games. But this is where my passion lies and though I'm taking small steps to get there (by joining the Mighty Post), I'm taking the right steps. 

Tenzin Ngawang Capstone

Abstract: 

My goal for the capstone was to pick 3-5 diseases that I wanted to go in depth with. The diseases had to be common and something that I can acquire a lot of information about. My final product is this website/blog. This blog includes everything that I have learned through out my research. It is all facts. The diseases that I studied are Diabetes, Tuberculosis, Schizophrenia, and HIV/AIDs. Each site includes statistics, what it is/what it does to the patient, whether it is curable or not, what can a person do to prevent it, its' symptoms, current researches, caring tips, what that person's diet should look like, and whether it is contagious or not, etc.


http://highschoolepidemiologisttenzinngawang.blogspot.com/

Mathew Walker Capstone

Student Name:
 Mathew Walker

In school mentor’s name:
 Mark Miles

 

 

Topic Summary:

 The goal of this project was to help me develop a better understanding of my future major, and also to show my current knowledge on the topic of computer science to see where I am going to be when I enter college. What I did was I created a game via the program processing which is a coding program that codes on java. What I learned during this process is that it is not always easy to stick to your original idea. As I went through the project I was learning a bunch of new coding material that I did not know and trying to take all that and apply all in one year was a little difficult. So I created a game that was not like my original idea but I did this because the game that I was able to produce in the end took some of the new knowledge that I learned and apply it. My original idea was to make a side scrolling adventure game such as the game Zelda but a lot of things such as drawing the maps and writing different coding functions for changing the map were slightly difficult. So in my end product, which was a maze, I was able to take the drawing maps and apply it. I also learned that you do not need fancy graphics to make a game fun because when I let my friends test it out everybody surrounded my computer trying to beat the game, which I am proud of.

BIBLIOGRAPHY: 
Here


PROCESS PAPER:
Here

FINAL PRODUCT:

Download This: Game

and Processing





 




Ruben Burenstein Capstone

Student Name:

Ruben Burenstein


Mentor: 

Mark Bey


Summary:

The goal of this project is to provide extra help for students who seemed to be having trouble in a Spanish 2 class. 



Abstract

 I was inspired to make this my capstone because wavering interest in education. Since I started learning Spanish I liked it, and decided that if I were to teach a subject it would be Spanish. During freshman and sophomore year I thought that I wanted to be a teacher, but then during junior year my opinion changed. After finding out that I would be the SAT for a Spanish 2 class I thought that this would be a good opportunity to see what teaching a small group of kids would be like. I soon realized that I would not just help the students on their work, but also help reinforce their core understanding. To do this I had to re acquaint myself with the topics that they were learning, as well as research teaching techniques. For the project I did small activities, and created worksheets with the intent of improving the understanding of the Spanish language. Researching how to be an effective teacher has given be a better understanding of what I should do in teaching situations, and given me methods on how to clearly display information to students. 



Following are links to pictures of the worksheets that the kids I taught completed, as well as other worksheets that were made, but there are no pictures of the kids doing them. There were also many days where I held activities and don't have physical proof of the work completed on those days. The descriptions for completed worksheets are below the pictures, so you may have to scroll down. 





CPaganCapstone

Screen Shot 2013-05-30 at 11.29.03 PM
Screen Shot 2013-05-30 at 11.29.03 PM
​Student Name

Cheyenne Pagan

Mentors

Stephanie Dunda, Jean Marie, Dr. Mecky

Topic Summary

To tutor and introduce science to children at the after school program TIMBA.

Abstract

In the beginning of my senior year, with the help of a few teachers, I was matched up with a non-profit organization by the name of Palms Solutions. In the rectory of a small West Philadelphia community church, Palms Solutions hosts an after school program called TIMBA that caters to helping African American children connect back to their African roots while also helping the young students to practice and develop their math and reading skills. My connection with Palms Solutions consisted of volunteering as a tutor for TIMBA. In addition to tutoring in math, it was my intention to also bring science to the learning environment and even perform a few experiments with the children all the while incorporating the math that they were reviewing in their tutoring sessions. However, through a few scheduling difficulties I was unable to accomplish all of the goals that I had set for my partnership with the program. Despite this, I did manage to perform one experiment with the children that worked petri plates and culturing bacteria. Overall, over the course of my capstone I gained volunteer, tutoring, teaching, and coordinating experience that I had not previously had. 



Annotated Bibliography


Stephanie Dunda


Jean Marie


Doctor Mecky


Eric S. Weinberg ( Biology of Human Diseases ) Penn arts and sciences


Science Bob. (n.d.). Make your own volcano. Retrieved from http://www.sciencebob.com/experiments/volcano.php


To begin thinking about my proposed experiment I researched the simple volcano experiment. This source breaks the steps down easily and includes a video.


Vinegar baking soda explanation. (n.d.). Retrieved from http://library.thinkquest.org/3347/vinegar bsoda4.html


This source is an explanation of the reaction between baking soda and vinegar. It explains what happens and what each step of the reaction is caused by.


Schultz, J. (n.d.). Vinegar and baking soda. Retrieved from http://www.newton.dep.anl.gov/askasci/chem99/chem99096.htm

The baking soda and vinegar formula. This also includes the balanced formula and the formulas for each reaction.


How to make a volcano -the improved no mache or plaster way [Web]. (2008). Retrieved from https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mWZW4FeHHbU


Video instruction for how to create a model volcano.


Koralek , D., & Collins, R. (n.d.). Tutoring strategies for the primary grades. Retrieved from http://www.readingrockets.org/article/113/

Originally


Four habits of highly effective math teaching. (n.d.). Retrieved from http://www.homeschoolmath.net/teaching/teaching.php


This source is that talks about the strategies that one person could use to teach children math. This helps in my capstone process because the majority of my time has been and will be spent tutoring children in various grades.

Science experiments for kids . (n.d.). Retrieved from http://www.sciencekids.co.nz/experiments.html