Three MHS seniors have joined the ranks of the nation's research superstars. For more than a decade, Manhasset students have consistently distinguished themselves as semifinalists in the INTEL (formerly Westinghouse) Science Talent Search. On Jan. 14, Manhasset received word that Gregory Amend, Amelia Breyre and Jason Pellegrino were named INTEL semifinalists, an honor which places them among the nation's 300 brightest and best research students. This brings the number of Manhasset's semifinalists to 37 students over the past 12 years.

Gregory Amend's project is entitled: The Effect Sea Star Coelomocytes Have On Asteroidea Regeneration Brain Cellular Proliferation in Vitro. His findings and possible future research and testing may have far reaching implications in growing organs for people who may need transplants such as livers and hearts As he explains the project, he took starfish cells called coelomocytes, which aid in the regeneration of starfish rays, and initiated growth of earthworm brain cells. He found that the chemicals produced by the coelomocytes were the regenerative promoters and significantly increased the growth of the earthworm brain cells.

Greg's research is the first step toward further testing to find out exactly which chemical molecule is responsible for the regenerative process, and whether this process can indeed be used to start growth in human or mammal organs.

Amelia's entry was titled Soybean Aphid Host Plant Specificity. Her research focused on a Chinese aphid that migrated to the United State three years ago. During that time, it has attacked the soybean crop and is also transmitting viruses to other plants such as clover. Amelia discovered that the aphid is attracted to other crops indicating that it has more hosts that the soybean, posing a greater threat to farm crops. The implication is that it is a growing danger to essential and important field products.

Jason Pellegrino's research is entitled Analysis of Metformin's Effect on Brain Insulin Receptors. His research focused on the drug Metformin, which has been used for many years in the treatment of Type II diabetes. It has been a long-held belief that Metformin decreases the body's high blood sugar level common in Type II patients, countering the hipactic glucose production of insulin sensitive tissue (liver, fat and muscle cells).

Jason's research was designed to find out if Metformin increased insulin sensitivity in the brain or had no effect. Jason took a personal interest in this research as he was diagnosed as a Type I diabetic several years ago. He said the findings of his project shows that the brain and insulin receptors should be paramount in future research and treatment of Type II diabetes.

These students' research papers were among a total of 15 that were submitted by Manhasset's students: nine in science and six in social science.

In making the announcement, High School Principal William Stark said, "Once again, Manhasset High School Students have maintained the tradition of recognition in the field of research. These students, through their efforts, the dedication of the professional staff, and the support of their parents serve as models for all those who will follow in their path. This is a win, not only for them but also for a community that has consistently demonstrated its interest in providing the highest quality education programs for the students." Science research advisor Peter Guastella, added that this is an excellent group of seniors who have worked very hard for four years. Our science symposium was on Monday, Jan. 12, and for those who attended, I think everyone will agree that all our students are winners."

Manhasset's seniors were among the more than 70 Long Island students selected as semifinalists. Three hundred semifinalists and their schools will receive matching awards of $1,000. From this group of 300 semifinalists, 40 finalists will be chosen to attend the Science Talent Institute in Washington, DC from March 11-16. During their trip to Washington, the finalists will participate in a final judging process and share in $530,000 in scholarships. The top prize of a $100,000 scholarship will be announced at a black tie banquet and awards ceremony on March 16.