bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of wall conditions and Lewis number on finger-shaped flame acceleration in channels
Authors: Kodakoglu Furkan , AlKhabbaz Mohammed , Abidakun Olatunde , Akkerman V'yacheslav
Published: May 2022

While the phenomenon of finger flame acceleration (FFA) has been investigated extensively, the previous analytical and computational studies employed numerous simplifying assumptions such as free-slip, adiabatic walls of a pipe and equidiffusive burning, which are not the cases in the practical reality. The present work reduces such a gap between the research and practice. Specifically, the impacts of various wall boundary conditions and the Lewis number (the thermal-to-mass diffusivities ratio) Le on FFA are scrutinized by means of computational simulations of the reacting flow equations, with fully-compressible hydrodynamics, transport properties (thermal conduction, diffusion and viscosity) and Arrhenius chemical kinetics. An extensive parametric study is undertaken, with the evolutions of the locus and velocity of the flame tip as well as of the flame surface area and the burning rate identified. Among the wall conditions, various isothermal (cold/preheated) and mechanistic (slip/non-slip) boundaries are compared. It is shown that side walls provide a minor impact on FFA, which differs from another acceleration mechanism where wall friction plays a greater role. The latter result can be explained by the fact that FFA occurs far from the walls, i.e. along the centerline and before the flame skirt contacts the side walls. As for the role of Le, it is demonstrated that the Le > 1 flames are intrinsically thickened and thereby propagate slower than the equidiffusive (Le = 1) flames, though the difference is minor. In contrast, the Le < 1 flames propagate faster due to the onset of the diffusional-thermal instability.
The Determination of the Expression of Amino Acid Glutamate Transporters: 2 and 3, in the Presence of Plague Severities in Alzheimer’s Disease
Authors: Anthony Bruce , Murphy Caitlin E
Published: May 2022

The primary goal of this experiment was to determine if there was a correlation between the expression of EAAT-2 and EAAT-3 in the glutamate reuptake pathway in astrocytes and the production of plaques associated with Alzheimer’s Disease.  Since both the EAAT-2 and EAAT-3 transporter proteins are involved in glutamate transport under normal pre-synaptic and post-synaptic neuron signaling, then altered expression of either EAAT-2 or EAAT-3 can have catastrophic effects on the functions of neurons in the brain.  In Alzheimer’s Disease it is believed that there is an under expression of both EAAT-2 and EAAT-3 which in turn effects the glutamate transport pathway by preventing glutamate uptake and causing synaptic suppression.  Accumulation of extracellular glutamate can cause neurodegeneration and allow for the reduction of glutamine needed by the presynaptic neuron. We anticipated an inverse correlation between the expression of both EAAT-2 and EAAT-3 and the formation of plaques, revealing that the expression of EAAT-2 and EAAT-3 is decreased most in patients with severe Alzheimer’s Disease.
The effect of various alcohol dosages on neural vesicle packaging and GABA receptor expression
Authors: Anthony Bruce , McIntosh Thomas
Published: May 2022

Abusive alcohol consumption has negative effects on proliferation, differentiation and migration of neuronal stem cell in both fetal development and adult neural plasticity.  IN both cases, loss of neurons and astrocytes alters synaptic transmission in dopaminergic and GABAergic synapses within the limbic system.   This is particularly evident within areas of the amygdala and nuclear accumbens.  It is known that alcohol causes an imbalance between GABA and glutamate-NMDA transmission, and could cause altered levels of neurotransmitter reuptake or insensitivity to regular GABA levels. In this study, the effects of binge and chronic alcohol exposure to neuronal stem cell were observed. We examined synaptic vesicle packaging and GABAergic receptors on fully differentiated neurons. E14 Rat Cortical Stem Cells were grown, and differentiated, then exposed to alcohol in various doses. The expected results were to observe alterations in the density of synaptic vesicles and an alteration in GABAergic receptor expression. These results would suggest that both chronic and binge drinking of alcohol causes alterations in synaptic transmission as well as neuron numbers.
Connecting the ticks- highways as potential corridors for Lyme transmission
Authors: Hicks Ebonie T , Bjorgo-Thorne Kimberly A
Published: May 2022

We investigated the correlation between Lyme disease cases and highway density in Virginia. Our hypothesis was that there would be a relationship between highway density and Lyme disease cases. Highways could provide migration corridors for white-tailed deer as well as white-footed mice, both of which are hosts for the black-legged tick, Ixodes scapularis, the vector of the Lyme bacterium Borrelia burgdorferi.  We used recorded cases of Lyme disease in Virginia from 2006 and 2016. We then converted the data into GIS databases to examine spatial relationships between the cases of Lyme Disease and highway density. For these purposes, we defined a highway as a Federal or State divided road (e.g., Interstate 81). Our findings show that the number of confirmed Lyme disease cases in Virginia have increased in the last ten-year period according to Virginia Department of Health data. We feel that there is the possibility of correlation between movement of deer and small mammals along highway corridors and the number of confirmed Lyme disease cases.  Future research should focus on how permeable highways are to deer migration.
Cutaneous leishmaniasis case report with possible link to nutrition
Authors: Grill Brooke , Landvoigt Maple , Schaper Dina , Flanders Jodi
Published: May 2022

Leishmaniasis is uncommon in the United States but endemic in impoverished areas with high sandfly populations.  In addition, affected areas often lack balanced diets, raising suspicion of a relationship between parasite susceptibility and nutrition1-4.  During a medical service trip to the Sacred Valley region of Peru, a young 7-year-old boy presented with a rash, fatigue, and lack of appetite.  He also had a history of being bitten by insects while playing outside.  He was hospitalized eight weeks prior and diagnosed with cutaneous leishmaniasis (subtype unknown) based on deep tissue biopsy and culture by local doctors.  He was subsequently treated for a total of ten days with IV sodium stibogluconate.  On presenting to our medical clinic, his diagnosis was verified through observation of a one-inch volcanic appearance with rolled edges and pink ulceration located on his forearm.  There was evidence of scabbing and the patient was advised to continue follow-up with his local physicians.  It was also noted that the child’s uncle had a similar lesion on his nose, likely being mucocutaneous leishmaniasis.  The prevalence of leishmaniasis within this family and association with nutritional deficiencies of the area, raises the possibility of nutrition as a modifying risk factor in this infection1-3.  Others have found that high protein diets can increase resistance and resilience to parasites2, 3.  Nutritional education and intervention to increase dietary protein has the potential to be a preventive, cost-effective, and realistic means to help reduce leishmaniasis infections in communities with a relatively low protein intake1, 2.
Analyzing American Brand and Chinese Counterfeit Eyeshadows for Heavy Metals
Authors: Harman Juilia , Flood Mark , Henson Kristy , Scanlon Matthew
Published: May 2022

Counterfeit cosmetics are a large problem in the world today because they are cheap and easy to purchase. However, many are unaware of the counterfeit cosmetics’ ingredients as they are not mandated to comply with the American Food and Drug administration requirements. Counterfeit cosmetics may have ill-effects on a person’s body that are irreversible. This study aimed to compare three brands of American eyeshadows with their Chinese counterfeits and determine their lead, iron, copper, and arsenic concentrations. In total, there were three samples tested from each brand, making an overall total of eighteen samples. The samples were acid digested and analyzed through an Atomic Absorption Spectrometer (AAS) and Graphite Furnace Atomizer (GFA). Preliminary results showed varying amounts of iron, copper, lead, and arsenic found in some of the samples from both the American brands and their Chinese counterparts. These heavy metals can be absorbed through the skin causing effects such as nausea, anemia, nerve damage and other life-threatening events. Consumers should be more aware of these counterfeit products and the heavy metal presence that may be accidentally or intentially added in these products and what they can do to a person’s body.
MTT Proliferation Assay
Authors: Anderson Adriana Sue
Published: May 2022

ADRIANA ANDERSON and MARK FLOOD, Natural Sciences Department, Fairmont State University, Fairmont, WV 26554.  MTT Proliferation Assay.Within the field of forensic toxicology, it is important to understand the effects of chemicals on cells. A proficient method for testing the potential harmful effects is through MTT (3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide) proliferation assays. The assay is typically used to determine the concentration of eukaryotic cells that are inactivated or killed when exposed to a chemical. This research is designed to create a successful and time restricted MTT proliferation assay method for educational purposes using bacterial cells.  Several gram positive and gram negative bacteria were tested for their usefulness in the MTT assay by first diluting growing broth cultures to OD550=0.3.  Bacteria were exposed to 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide, or Yellow MTT, which then produces formazan in the form of purple crystals.  Formazan is then dissolved using an SDS (sodium dodecyl sulfate) solution. By utilizing a UV-vis spectrophotometer, the A570 correlates with the number of living cells that are actively metabolizing.  Background noise was eliminated by subtracting the absorbance of negative control samples containing only broth and MTT.  Of the organisms tested to date, the gram positive Enterococcus faecalis and the gram negative Moraxella catarrhalis have shown the best results.  The next step in the research is to select several chemicals to treat the cells to determine their toxicity.   This research shows that bacteria can be successfully used in the MTT proliferation assay for the purposes of providing a relevant, time efficient, and cost effective lab experience in a forensic toxicology class.
Instrumentation standardization and reproducibility to support hands-on solar energy research
Authors: Starcovic Sarah Ann , Knowlton Shannon , Knowlton Shannon , Gillo Kendra , Gillo Kendra , Harvey Erica , Harvey Erica
Published: May 2022

Solar hydrogen fuel generation through water splitting is the ultimate goal of a nationwide solar energy research initiative called the Solar Army.  A fluorescence-based device called HARPOON 1.0 is currently used in the Solar Army to test oxygen-generating capabilities of mixed-metal oxide samples and identify samples that might catalyze water splitting. The West Virginia Brigade of the Solar Army, including First2 Network and high school students, is developing HARPOON 2.0.  Less-complicated, cheaper, and more classroom-friendly, HARPOON 2.0 allows students as young as middle school to carry out real solar energy research. A suspension of titanium dioxide nanoparticles in sodium hydroxide nucleates the formation of oxygen bubbles above the metal oxide samples.  The bubbles are visualized using scattered white light. Progress towards standardization and reproducibility of results obtained from diverse users and samples will be reported. This research was made possible by Fairmont State University College of Science and Technology and NASA WV Space Grant Consortium.
OpiA, a Type Six Secretion System Substrate, localizes to the cell pole and plays a role in bacterial growth and viability in Francisella tularensis LVS.
Authors: Cantlay Stuart , Haggerty Kristen , Horzempa Joseph
Published: May 2022

Francisella tularensis is an intracellular pathogen and the causative agent of tularemia. The F. tularensis type six secretion system (T6SS) is required for a number of host-pathogen interactions including phagolysosomal escape and invasion of erythrocytes.    One known effector of the T6SS, OpiA, has recently been shown to be a phosphatidylinositol-3 kinase. To investigate the role of OpiA in erythrocyte invasion, we constructed an opiA-null mutant in the live vaccine strain, F. tularensis LVS. OpiA was not required for erythrocyte invasion, however, deletion of opiA affected growth of F. tularensis LVS in broth cultures in a medium-dependent manner.    We also found that opiA influenced cell size, gentamicin sensitivity, bacterial viability, and the lipid content of F. tularensis.  A fluorescently tagged OpiA (OpiA-EmGFP) accumulated at the cell poles of F. tularensis which is consistent with the location of the T6SS.  However, OpiA-EmGFP also exhibited a highly dynamic localization and this fusion protein was detected in erythrocytes and THP-1 cells in vitro further supporting that OpiA is secreted. Similar to previous reports using F. novicida, our data demonstrated that opiA had a minimal effect on intracellular replication of F. tularensis in host immune cells in vitro. However, THP-1 cells infected with the opiA mutant produced modestly (but significantly) higher levels of the pro-inflammatory cytokine TNF-α compared to these host cells infected with wild-type bacteria.   Together, our results support previous observations that implicate opiA in infection and virulence, but also reveal an additional role for opiA central to the biology of F. tularensis bacteria. (This research was made possible by NASA West Virginia Space Grant Consortium Training Grant #NNX15A101H and by NIH Grant P20GM103434 to the West Virginia IDeA Network for Biomedical Research Excellence).
Role of FTL_1306 (dipA) in Francisella tularensis susceptibility to resazomycins.
Authors: Souder Kendall , Whaby Michael , Hickman Jennifer , Scmitt Deanna , Primerano Donald , Denvir James
Published: May 2022

The CDC classifies Francisella tularensis as a Category A bioterrorism agent. Due to the risk of potential release of antibiotic-resistant F. tularensis strains, new therapeutics against F. tularensis must be developed.  Resazomycins are resazurin (Rz)-based compounds that exhibit antimicrobial activity against F. tularensis and other gram-negative bacteria. The action of resazomycins is not well understood, but potential targets of the antibiotic were identified in a high throughput screen for Rz-resistant isolates. The dipA (FTL_1306) gene was identified as mutated in half of the 48 Rz-resistant (RZR) strains sequenced. To further investigate the role of dipA in Rz susceptibility, we introduced a wild-type copy of dipA into select RZR isolates (RZR1, 5, 43, and 46) that contain dipA mutations. The dipA gene was amplified by PCR from wild-type F. tularensis and cloned into the F. tularensis shuttle vector pABST to generate a construct (pABST-dipA) in which dipA will be constitutively expressed under control of the groEL promoter. The pABST-dipA plasmid was mobilized into each of the selected RZR isolates by electroporation. The resulting RZR dipA-complemented strains were cultivated on chocolate agar containing 10xMIC of Rz to determine their susceptibility to resazomycins. Preliminary results suggest that expression of wild-type dipA in the RZR mutants did not restore sensitivity to Rz indicating dipA may not play a role in Rz susceptibility.  Further investigation is needed to fully elucidate the contribution of dipA to the bactericidal action of resazomycins.
Investigation of potential dominant negative dipA mutants in susceptibility of Francisella tularensis to resazomycins.
Authors: Stack Janelle Marie , Jarrett Adam , Schmitt Deanna
Published: May 2022

Multidrug-resistant bacteria pose a significant threat to global public health. According to the CDC, more than 2.8 million antibiotic-resistant infections occur in the United States each year, and more than 35,000 people die as a result. The development of new antibiotics is necessary to combat this public health crisis. Recently, we identified a novel family of compounds, resazomycins, which exhibit antimicrobial activity against select Gram-negative bacteria such as Francisella tularensis. The mode of action of resazomycins is not well understood, but through a screen for Rz-resistant (RZR) isolates of F. tularensis, one gene, dipA, was identified to be mutated in half of the strains that were sequenced. Complementation with wild-type dipA did not restore sensitivity to Rz in the RZR isolates, suggesting dipA does not play a role in Rz susceptibility or mutant dipA may be exhibiting a dominant negative effect. To explore the latter possibility, the dipA gene was amplified by PCR from spontaneous Rz mutants Rzr43 and Rzr46 and cloned into the F. tularensis shuttle vector pABST. These recombinant plasmids were then introduced into wild-type LVS. Upon confirmation of the successful introduction of each dipA allele into LVS, the resulting strains were then cultivated on chocolate agar containing Rz to determine their susceptibility to resazomycins. Preliminary results suggest that expression of mutant dipA in LVS did not confer resistance to Rz indicating dipA may not play a role in Rz susceptibility. Further investigation is needed to fully elucidate the contribution of dipA to the bactericidal action of resazomycins.
Scientific method for improvement and student success: Plan-Do-Study-Act.
Authors: Harvey Erica , Heatherly Sue Ann , Starcovic Sarah , Knowlton Shannon
Published: May 2022

Are you curious what STEM students find to be barriers to their own success?  Do you have anything in your courses or research laboratory environments that you would like to improve?  In this hands-on session you will learn how to use the basic principles of improvement science, specifically a branch called Networked Improvement Communities (NIC), to identify ideas that you think might produce the improvement you seek.  You will be guided through setting up a Plan-Do-Study-Act (PDSA) cycle to test your change idea on a rapid timescale in your own local environment.    The First2 Network (https://first2network.org) is a growing statewide alliance that aims to improve student success and retention in STEM fields, using the NIC framework.  First-generation and other underrepresented students are at the center of the work, and current undergraduates involved in First2 will help lead this session.  We invite all students at the conference to join in and share their own experiences and perspectives with faculty members during this session.   First2 Network, a National Science Foundation INCLUDES Alliance, is supported by NSF award numbers HRD-1834569, 1834575, 1834586, 1834595, and 1834601.
Microbial source tracking of a mixed land use tributary in the Upper Ohio River Basin
Authors: O'Connor Abigail
Published: May 2022

Wheeling Creek contributes high levels of the fecal indicator bacterium Escherichia coli (E. coli) to the Ohio river. Since Wheeling Creek is used recreationally, elevated fecal coliform levels pose potential health risks including gastrointestinal or respiratory illness to humans who have direct contact with this stream. In collaboration with the Wheeling Water Pollution Control Division, we are conducting a longitudinal study of 12 sites spanning 25 stream miles encompassing rural and urban land uses. For each site, we are collecting weekly bacteria samples from the water column and recording water chemistry data. We are analyzing seasonal trends in bacterial contamination and correlations with site parameters including rainfall, water chemistry, and land use to develop a baseline data set and identify the greatest contributors to E. coli levels in the creek.In addition to quantification of coliform bacteria and E. coli concentrations, we are conducting strain analysis of fecal bacteria using a genetic sequencing tool to indicate the primary source of contamination for each site. Since E. coli contamination could originate from human sewage, wildlife, or agriculture, microbial source tracking can help to indicate the health risk of bacterial contamination in Wheeling Creek and inform remediation efforts.
Developing Software to Numerically Solve a System of Impulsive Ordinary Differential Equations
Authors: CRUTCHLEY BRIAN , Wang Qing
Published: May 2022

Mathematical models can be used to simulate complex real-world behaviors and provide insights into how these behaviors work. Additionally, these models can be enhanced through complementary software that is able to better manipulate the large sample spaces their parameters tend to have. This project seeks to develop software to numerically solve multiple newly developed Cancer models. This is accomplished by using the Runge-Kutta method to approximate solutions to the models and leveraging computational power to achieve higher precision and speed. The result of this software will be numerical solutions of the new models that can be used to screen optimal treatment strategy based on calibrated cancer models using impulsive ODEs. The project was supported by NIH Grant P20GM103434 to the West Virginia IDeA Network for Biomedical Research Excellence and the Research Challenge Fund through a Summer Undergraduate Research Experience Grant from the West Virginia Higher Education Policy Commission Division of Science and Research.
Efficient Simulation of Allele-Specific Expression.
Authors: Fisher Justin R , Miller Jason Rafe
Published: May 2022

Diploid organisms such as animals and plants carry maternal and paternal variants of most of their genes. Preferential transcription of either gene variant is called ASE for allele-specific expression. In plant seeds, ASE has been observed at selective genes at selective developmental stages, so the process is presumably regulated by epigenetic factors such as genomic imprinting. The Informative Reads Pipeline (IRP) is software that we developed previously for the purpose of detecting ASE in RNA sequencing data obtained from plant seeds. To help us validate and generalize the software, we developed a sequence data simulator that harbors a parameterized model of ASE. Whereas the maternal/paternal ratio per gene is always unknown in real data, the simulator provides the opportunity to quantify IRP’s ability to recover the preset ratios from the data provided. The simulator generates and maps sequences using standard software. Simulating ASE at all combinations of all genes would be computationally prohibitive. Therefore, we introduced an optimization that reduces the generate+map computation from exponential to constant time. Correctness of the optimized simulator is demonstrated here.
Transcriptional profiling of mitochondrial metabolic regulatory genes during lipid absorption in larval Danio rerio (zebrafish).
Authors: Price Heather Elaine , Walters James W
Published: May 2022

Mitochondrial associated genes play an important role in metabolic processes that are linked to major diseases in the human body such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and cancer. Two such genes that relate to these processes are PCK1, linked to regulating gluconeogenesis working in conjunction with the citric acid cycle, and SLC25a33, a solute carrier associated with mitochondrial biogenesis and ROS levels. An initial RNAseq experiment comparing oleic acid and oleic acid plus cholesterol diets identified 57 genes responsive to cholesterol metabolism. Genes were then mapped using Cytoscape and literature databases to identify potential genes involved in cardiovascular disease. PCK1 and SLC25a33, were chosen due to their increased-up regulation in the initial RNAseq experiment and their association with mitochondrial functions. The original experiment was repeated with the three dietary challenges – 2% BSA, 2% BSA and Oleic Acid (OAD), and 2%BSA Oleic Acid and Cholesterol (OACD). Zebrafish larvae were used to model the human intestinal tract during dietary absorption. Intestinal dissections were performed after a 3-hour feeding period of each condition. Subsequently a cDNA library was made of each replicate and qRT-PCR was performed to assess the differential regulation of genes involved in metabolic adaption to the diets. We found PCK1 and Timm10b were up-regulated in the OAD diet as compared to OACD and SLC25a33 showed the opposite regulation with theses diets. This work was supported by NIH Grant P20GM103434 to the West Virginia IDeA Network for Biomedical Research Excellence and NIH Grant P20GM103434 awarded to Bluefield State College.
Modernism, postmodernism, and chaos: thinking styles and political preferences
Authors: Hull John H. , Hull Debra , Davis Sonya , Cuevas Camila , Meyers Riley
Published: May 2022

Undergraduate participants read 44 trigger words and phrases, including several in categories involving gender, race, sexual orientation, other social justice issues, and political slogans, rating them on four dimensions: emotional response, comfort in hearing the words/phrases in a classroom, comfort hearing them in casual conversation, and comfort using them in casual conversation. There was general agreement about items producing significantly positive overall emotional response ratings, among them feminist, Black Lives Matter, #Me Too, and about items producing significantly negative overall ratings, among them liberal snowflake, retarded, “Go back to your own country!”, and slut. On the other hand, regarding feeling comfortable hearing trigger items in class, self-identified females and males gave significantly different ratings to many items such as slave master, compassion, and “Make America Greater Again!”, while self-identified African American participants and White participants gave significantly different ratings to items such as patriotic, slut, White History Month, and “Make America Great Again!” These and other findings to be presented emphasize the importance of knowing what may be differentially triggering words and phrases in diverse classroom settings, as well as more casual situations.
Optimizing a micro-fluidic slide for in vivo imaging of larval Zebrafish.
Authors: Parnell Dakota James , Orell Jesse Reed , Ali Syed Monis , Walters James William
Published: May 2022

Larval zebrafish (Danio rerio) are optically transparent at six- and seven-days post fertilization (dpf) which makes them useful research models for the study of metabolic and physiological processes. Previous methods to image zebrafish were limited to embryogenesis and early larval stages. Our goal was to design a novel micro-fluidic slide for mounting zebrafish that greatly extends the duration of time for in vivo imaging of zebrafish larvae that are six to seven days post fertilization (dpf). The ideal mounting slide will have channels to provide media exchange, nourishment, and/or drug treatments and channels to remove waste and flush the system of previous test conditions. We had a microfluidic slide manufactured to our specifications. Initial testing revealed that the larval bed was too large. To optimize our previous prototype, we used the Zeiss Discovery V8 microscope to recalculate our measurements for the larvae bed. We have now re-imaged five each of six dpf larvae and five each of seven dpf larvae in order to adjust the measurements to the new average larval size. This work was supported by NIH Grant P20GM103434 to the West Virginia IDeA Network for Biomedical Research Excellence and NIH Grant P20GM103434 awarded to Bluefield State College
Forecasting California Housing Prices Using a Linear Regression Model
Authors: Doza Luisely , Miller Jason Rafe
Published: May 2022

With the prevalence of big data, we are able to implement simple Machine Learning techniques against datasets to solve many present issues. Utilizing the California Housing Prices dataset, we can apply linear regression models to forecast districts’ future median housing prices. As a result, homebuyers could predict if they are getting a good deal on their home, investors could predict their potential return on investments and capitalize on undervalued properties, and sellers could gauge what they could potentially sell for on the open market. To find a starting base, our research began as an independent study guided by a textbook that provides hands-on machine learning training, including one that uses the California Housing Prices dataset. From here, we are able to choose the Least Square Regression Line as our performance measure in the model—which will result in a linear equation that looks for minimizing the variance between the training set’s predictions and the actual points produced on the regression line. Once we are able to train our model to make accurate predictions from the testing set, we can expand upon this research by moving beyond linear regression and investigating different Machine Learning techniques further within the textbook to model the data in more sophisticated ways.
Historical weather data as a biocultural indicator of ancient vitamin D deficiency in human skeletal remains in the United States.
Authors: Henson Kristy
Published: May 2022

Vitamin D is a pro-hormone that is activated by ultraviolet B (UVB) radiation through direct exposure to the skin. Vitamin D plays a large role in calcium and phosphorus absorption in the small intestines, directly influencing blood-calcium homeostasis and skeletal health. Individuals who do not receive enough UVB radiation do not have adequate blood calcium levels leading to a cascade of metabolic deficiencies and health problems, including bone diseases like rickets and osteomalacia. Many biocultural variables may affect vitamin D exposure. For this presentation, I will explore how weather and geographic location affect the likelihood of individuals living in the past being vitamin D deficient. I analyzed twelve states above and twelve states below the Mason-Dixon Line which were settled during the 19th century. To examine historic weather data I extracted average temperature, UV index, and zenith angle data by year, season, and state. Data were analyzed using ANOVA and PCA. Preliminary results show weather data significantly varies by northern and southern state, which may indicate that state of residence can directly impact vitamin D status.
Mechanism of apoptosis induced by actinomycin D in upper aerodigestive tract cancers
Authors: Adeluola Adeoluwa Ayodeji , Amin A.R.M Ruhul , Long Timothy E.
Published: May 2022

Upper aerodigestive tract cancers (i.e., oral cavity, pharynx, larynx, esophagus, and lungs) are one of the most prevalent and leading causes of cancer-related deaths. Drug resistance is a big challenge for successfully treating these cancers. Recent studies have shown that combining low-dose actinomycin D with existing therapies is a promising strategy to overcome resistance.  The development of these treatment strategies however requires an understanding of the molecular mechanisms of resistance and drug action.   This study aimed to identify the mechanism of actinomycin D-induced apoptosis in aerodigestive tract cancers. We determined the IC50 of actinomycin D which spanned between 0.027-3.72 ng/ml in a range of aerodigestive tract cancer cell lines using the SRB assay. Subsequently, we conducted apoptosis assays using the Annexin V-PE staining. FlowJo was used to quantify apoptosis. We found that actinomycin D induced apoptosis of all cell lines tested, but the sensitivity varies between cell lines. Mechanistic studies revealed that actinomycin D time- and dose-dependently increased the expression of p53 and its downstream targets p21 and Puma in cells expressing wild-type p53. Interestingly, ablation of p53 expression using shRNA decreased the expression of p21 and Puma in A549 cell line and p21 in H460 cell line. Moreover, ablation of p53 significantly protected cells from actinomycin D-induced apoptosis (p < 0.0001). Summarily, our data revealed that actinomycin D induced p53-dependent apoptosis of cells expressing wild-type p53. Since actinomycin D also induced apoptosis of cells expressing mutant p53 or lacking p53, future studies will explore the mechanism of p53-independent apoptosis.
The undergraduate research pipeline at West Virginia University
Authors: Richards-Babb Michelle
Published: May 2022

Studies have demonstrated that involving undergraduates in research increases the probability that they will be retained within their STEM majors and graduate on time. Providing opportunities for students to engage in research aligns with institutional goals of enhanced student recruitment, increased student diversity, improved persistence, and high-quality graduates. At our institution, individual efforts to promote research through NSF and state-funded summer undergraduate research experiences were initiated but suffered from a lack of cohesion across STEM disciplines and the institution. Establishment of a centralized Office of Undergraduate Research has (i) increased the number of students who take part in research; (ii) expanded the disciplines served; and (iii) diversified the students who engage in research (e.g., underrepresented persons, first-generation, and low income). In addition, we how have a four-year pipeline of opportunities that begin the summer before the freshmen year via the NSF-funded First2 Network’s summer research immersion, continue into the academic-year through the Research Apprenticeship Program (RAP), into the summer via the state-funded Summer Undergraduate Research Experience (SURE), and culminate in disciplinary research coursework or research impactful to the community through the Honors Experiential and Community-Engaged Learning (EXCEL) program. Summary participation and tracking data will be presented on the efficacy of these research opportunities. In addition, best practices for engaging diverse undergraduates and faculty members in research will be discussed.
Quantification of Formaldehyde in Hair Creams Using Chromogenic Methods
Authors: Quesenberry Ariel
Published: May 2022

A significant amount of research has been conducted to show that exposure to the colorless gas formaldehyde can lead to a variety of unwanted side effects. Many hair products, such as the Brazilian Blowout claim to be “formaldehyde-free”, however, when these products are used, studies have shown that formaldehyde is being released into the air and therefore exposing the user to an unknown concentration of formaldehyde.  Using a quantitative, colorimetric method, the concentration of formaldehyde in a sample was determined.  First, chromotropic acid and sulfuric acid were mixed with known concentrations of formaldehyde on a thin-layer chromatograph (TLC) plate to create a standard curve. The color density of the violet spots developed during the process were assessed using ImageJ software.  Once the color density of the known standards is determined, the method will be repeated to determine if various hair creams that claim to be “formaldehyde-free” contain any formaldehyde or not.  Also, hair creams will be heated up to see if formaldehyde can be produced.
The effect of high sugar diet on adipokine expression in 3T3-L1 cells and weight in mice
Authors: Tetteh-Quarshie Samuel , Jones Cynthia B
Published: May 2022

One of the major contributing factors to the prevalence of obesity in United States is the Western Diet, characterized by consumption of high fat and high simple sugars. Even though the issue of obesity has become a national interest, few studies have explored the relationship of high sugary diets (HSD) and obesity. The objective of this study was to determine the effects of HSD on weight gain and adipokine expression in adipose tissues.    3T3-L1 cells were cultured and differentiated in recommended differentiation medium supplemented with stock sugar solutions. Lipid accumulation was quantified with Oil Red O assay. Total RNA was isolated, first strand cDNA synthesized, and qRT-PCR performed. C57BL/6 male mice were fed normal rodent chow and water with the following sugar-sweetened beverages: fructose (10% solution), glucose (10% solution) and a combined fructose/glucose (55% fructose and 45% glucose for a 10% solution) for 16 weeks. Animal weights were recorded and water solutions were measured and replaced every two days.    The in vitro data showed significant increase in lipogenesis for fructose/glucose as compared to the control. Pro-inflammatory adipokine expression of 3T3-L1    cells is significantly increased by two-fold when exposed to fructose/glucose solution. HSD-fed mice exhibited an addictive behavior with a significant increase in fructose/glucose water consumption, and weight gain.   While all HSD-fed mice consumed more water and gained weight over time, the fructose/glucose and glucose groups substantially consumed more water which resulted in major weight gain.   Understanding the deleterious effects of over consumption of HSD is paramount to avoiding obesity-related diseases and disorders.
Computer science labs with social distancing
Authors: Rai Sanish
Published: May 2022

Computer science (CS) labs support student in grasping the main concepts by writing the program codes and seeing them in execution. CS labs are important mainly for introductory CS courses where the students learn the basics of computer concepts and programming. To make the CS lab effective, students are supported by instructors and other lab assistants in pair programming approach where instructors or lab assistant help students write code working side by side at a single computer working on the same problem.Due to COVID-19 restriction, this process could not be continued since two persons must maintain social distancing. To provide the students with the highest quality of instruction in practical lab, CS labs were instead organized using zoom. Students were placed in different breakout zoom rooms, where instructor or lab assistant would drop in to help the student. The instructor and students would be in the lab while lab assistants would connect remotely and would be placed in a breakout room by instructor. While this technology allowed to view student’s code privately and support them, there were issues such as loss of time in arranging this setup in every labs, difficulty in connecting to zoom, difficult to understand student/instructor, difficulty for students to ask their question as student’s computer did not have microphone. We adapted to the situation and were able to support our students. In this work, we will share how we used this system and discuss the advantages, disadvantages and future improvements on this teaching process.
Water Quality Monitoring for the Central Appalachian Coalfields Crayfish
Authors: De Vries Caitlin
Published: May 2022

Primary economic drivers over the years in the central Appalachian coalfields include coal mining, timbering, fossil fuel extraction, and all-terrain vehicle tourism.  These industries cause impacts such as sedimentation, elimination of headwater streams (resulting from valley fills), destruction of riparian vegetation, and increased physiochemical pollution in montane streams.  As a result of this significant habitat destruction, two species of endemic crayfishes, Cambarus callainus and Cambarus veteranus, were both federally listed in April 2016. This study will sample 12 selected sites – four degraded streams, four medium-impacted streams, and four reference condition streams – within the coalfields region of Kentucky, Virginia, and West Virginia.  Sampling will occur for one year, alternating monthly between two sets of six sites.  General crayfish sampling will occur at each site to document the crayfish community present. Water quality monitoring will be split into four categories: long-term, point-source, photometer, and water samples analyzed for heavy metal content. Understanding the chemical composition of the target species’ habitat will enable us to properly and efficiently aid C. callainus and C. veteranus conservation efforts.
Using gun blue to develop fingerprints off of fired and unfired cartridges.
Authors: Sharps Brittany Leigh
Published: May 2022

Sweat and oil, produced from eccrine and sebaceous glands, are secreted from the pores and distributed across the skin. If the fingerprint ridges are not hydrated with sweat or oil then the print will not have as much detail. Normal latent prints are extracted with fingerprint powder or superglue fuming. Gun blue is a chemical that is typically used to maintain and improve the metal finish of firearms, protecting against rusting and scratches. In preliminary studies gun blue helps enhance the ridge characteristics on fingerprints because once gun blue is dry its texture is similar to fingerprinting powder. For this project I tested the gun blue theory on gun cartridges collected from a local gun range loaded and fired by a male, female, and unknown. I collected 9mm and 12 gauge cartridges immediately and hours after firing. Cartridges were placed in a super glue fuming chamber then treated with gun blue. Preliminary results so that fingerprints were easier to view and lift after applying gun blue compared to commonly used fingerprint powder.
Establishing a model for studying the effects of maternal hyperthyroidism in utero.
Authors: Dwiggins Andrea , Racine Holly
Published: May 2022

Thyroid hormones (THs), triiodothyronine (T3) and thyroxine (T4), play a critical role in growth and maintenance in all organ systems. Research suggests that maternal hyperthyroidism is a risk factor for craniosynostosis (CS in infants). CS is characterized by the premature fusion of the cranial sutures, which leads to debilitating side effects. The mechanism of TH-induced CS is obscure. The overall objective of this study is to enhance the knowledge about in utero thyroid-related mechanisms and how they relate to the development of CS.  However, a model for study must first be established. It is hypothesized that a dose of T4 between 50 pg and 0.5 ug will induce thyrotoxicosis in an avian model. Fertilized chicken eggs were injected beneath the chorioallantoic membrane with saline and 50pg, 0.5ng, 5.0ng, 50ng and 0.5ug T4. Embryos (N=4-6 per group) were collected at E19. In addition to viability, body and heart mass were recorded. Hyperthyroidism is known to cause a decrease in body mass. Results showed a significant decrease in body mass with 50ng T4 (p<0.001) while  maintaining viability (92%).  Hyperthyroidism is also known to cause cardiac hypertrophy. Results showed a significant increase in heart to body mass ratio with 50ng T4 (p<0.001). In conclusion, the 50ng T4 is the appropriate dose to maintain viability with accompanied phenotypic changes indicative of thyrotoxicosis. Determining an effective dosage regimen is important for establishing a model for studying the mechanisms of hyperthyroid-induced CS. Supported by the NASA West Virginia Space Grant Consortium (80NSSC20M0055).
Trigger words referencing sexuality: A gender gap?
Authors: Swan Alexis Marie , Rosser Courtney , Newman Cory , Hull Debra , Hull John
Published: May 2022

Undergraduate participants read 10 words associated with sexuality and gender issues, and likely to elicit strong emotional responses, then evaluated them on 1-5 scales measuring negative-positive emotional response, and comfort in hearing them in a virtual class, in a face-to-face class, and comfort in using them in private conversation.Independent sample t tests comparing the responses of self-identified women and men showed that for emotional response, women rated feminist, gender-inclusive, and equality more positively than did men, while men rated fag and sexist less negatively than did women. Women reported feeling significantly more comfortable using feminist and gender-inclusive in private conversation than men did, while men reported feeling less uncomfortable using homo, fag, and butch than women did. Correlated-groups t tests with genders combined showed little difference in comfort depending on where the word was heard, Finally, a factor analysis of the 10 words for emotional response yielded one main factor—related to sexism--with seven items with values higher than .45 or lower than -.45. Items weighted negatively included feminist, gender-inclusive, ally and equality; items weighted positively included fag, sexist, and rape.Future research could include possible covariates with gender, such political views, and the use of a larger set of trigger words, for example, those related to birth control and abortion.
Personal Cloud Computing
Authors: Guzide Osman , Castrechino Trey A
Published: May 2022

TREY CASTRECHINO, Dept of Computer Sciences, Mathematics, and Engineering, Shepherd University, Shepherdstown, WV, 25443, and OSMAN GUZIDE, Department of Computer Sciences, Mathematics, and Engineering, Shepherd University, Shepherdstown, WV, 25443. Privacy and convenience have been at odds for years with the popularity and reliability of cloud computing offered by big companies. As well as the rise in mobile or any type of “on the go” computing. Do consumers need to sacrifice their privacy or even functionality by relying on 3rd party cloud services or applications. This research is intended to develop the foundation for a personal cloud system that runs off user hardware. The research is focused on reducing all connections to 3rd party software while on the go and giving users complete access to their home system and all it’s functionality from any display with a USB C or HDMI connections.
The Use of Artificial Intelligence in Security System and Everyday Life and Creating a Security System Using basic Inexpensive Devices (Raspberry Pi)
Authors: Guzide Osman , Kouadio Jean-Emmanuel
Published: May 2022

JEAN-EMMANUEL KOUADIO, Department of Computer Sciences, Mathematics, and Engineering, Shepherd University, Shepherdstown, WV, 25443, and OSMAN GUZIDE, Department of Computer Sciences, Mathematics, and Engineering, Shepherd University, Shepherdstown, WV, 25443.This research is going to be on Computer Security, especially the use of the knowledge of Artificial Intelligence (AI) for a better Security System and the use in our everyday life. As a Computer Engineering senior, I have always been interested in knowing everything about computer security systems and Artificial Intelligence. Knowing that there is a lot of current security systems out there, mostly ways of Authentication, such as fingerprints, facial recognition, which are not 100% secure. I have always wondered about how to have the best system for a 100% security and Authentication and also what will be the contribution of Artificial Intelligence in our daily life. The Knowledge of Artificial Intelligence will be helpful to determine what will be the best way to reach these goals.