b'Business Applications of BlockchainJunyong Jeong, Department of Marketing and International BusinessJoon Kwak, Department of Physics, Astronomy, and GeosciencesFaculty Sponsor: Dr. Taewon Hwang, Department of Management and Healthcare AdministrationBlockchain refers to an open, distributed ledger that can verify and permanently record transactions among a network of computers. Each computer generates a block, which contains transaction data. Each time a block is completed, it gives way to the next block. A sequence of blocks in which the complete history of transactions is stored is called blockchain. Blockchain is best known as a foundational technology of most cryptocurrencies. One of the most popular examples is bitcoin, which is considered the first major application of blockchain. Despite the recent criticisms of bitcoin, researchers show strong evidence that blockchain can help companies change their existing business models and create new business opportunities. As it turns out, more and more companies are experimenting with blockchain-based applications. In this presentation, we will discuss the key mechanism of blockchain and review some business applications of blockchain.ChemistryPharmaceutical Implants Created from Polyethylene Glycol and Stearic AcidKonnor E. Mackey and Pavan D. Patel, Department of Chemistry Faculty Sponsor: Dr. Thomas Manning, PhD, Department of ChemistryPharmaceutical implants are used to deliver medicines over time based on the decay of the materials that comprise the implant. In this experiment, biodegradable and readily available polyethylene glycol and stearic acid were used to create cost effective implants and test the different concentrations which created the most ideal implant to be used as a delivery agent. The mass of stearic acid in each of the implants was consistent with the mass remaining at the end of each of the tests. The samples containing 60%, 70%, 80%, and 90% polyethylene glycol (PEG) showed the most promise in terms of having pores on the surface and a less dense structure to be able to house larger molecules.20'