bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Colorful turtles lack a preference for carotenoid-based food that maintains stripe and spot color.
Authors: Steffen John , Rothstein Logan
Published: May 2022

For animals with carotenoid-based skin or feather color, plant matter can be an important food item because plants contain carotenoids which help maintain that color. Because skin or feather color impacts a species ability to advertise its identity and potentially act as a sexually-selected signal, animals should evolve preferences for eating plants. Adult painted turtles eat a wide variety of aquatic plants and animals, and here we examine whether adult turtles prefer some common native aquatic plants (arrowhead, cat-tails, water lilies, and waterweeds) over a common aquatic fish (juvenile bluegill sunfish). We presented juvenile and adult turtles 3.5 cm2 pieces of the aquatic plants and bluegill, observed which items were bitten and eaten, and calculated selectivity and preference for each plant and bluegill fish. We found that juvenile and adult turtles show a strong selectivity and preference for bluegill sunfish. Bluegill may be selected for and preferred by painted turtles because fish is a high calory diet item, rich in proteins and fats, which facilitates the absorption and delivery of carotenoids to the skin.
A Multi-Cloud Environment for Relational Database Services: Design and Prototyping
Authors: Liao Weidong , Boone Jacob
Published: May 2022

In recent years, cloud computing has emerged as a rapidly growing and disruptive technology in both academic research and industry. In this poster, we first describe cloud computing architecture and cloud computing applications. Then we discuss potential issues and considerations regarding to reliability, availability and affordability that comes along with cloud computing.   With this background, we then present our design of a multi-cloud environment that could potentially deliver a highly reliable and highly available cloud computing environment. The multi-cloud environment may also help reduce cost of cloud usage. We finally describe the implementation of a multi-cloud prototype for cloud-based relational database services.
Chemical Approach to Separate Amino Alcohol Diastereomer Mixture
Authors: Alashmali Eshaq Ali
Published: May 2022

Identification of chiral compound has become the single most important research drug discovery since 1980. The advantage and disadvantage of having two isomers such as S or R rotation have been well documented in the literature. For example, Naproxen® commonly known as a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID). In its chemical structure, it has one chiral center which can provide a rotation of either R or S Naproxen®. The enantiomeric mixtures of Naproxen®, S-Naproxen® is one that used in pain relieve whereas the R- Naproxen® may give undesired side effect such as liver toxicity. Knowing how important separation of single isomer from the diastereomer mixture, my senior project is development of separating the diastereomer mixture using the chemical approach such as hydride mediated intramolecular cyclization. This project is a part of our on-going NP synthesis which has the significant relevant in anti-cancer research. In this poster, I am going to present three chemical steps leading into chemical separation of amino alcohol and provide with analytical data to confirm their chemical make-up.1st two chemical steps, CDI and NaBH4 reaction, are completed with their final yield calculation with the analytical data such as H1 NMR and C13 NMR are included in this poster. Addition to above two chemical steps, last stop of this project will be discussed and future direction of my research.
Gene Expression of Transcription factors and Secretion of Cytokines in Co-culturing of Dendritic Cells and Naïve T cells in Stressed AHCC-fed Mice Courtney Rolen1, Elisha Martin1, Rajnish Sahu2Tesfaye Belay1, 1Bluefield State College, Bluefield, WV; 2Alabama State University, Montgomery, AL.
Authors: Rolen Courtney
Published: May 2022

Cold-induced stress is known to inhibit the activity of immune cells and has been shown to cause different expression of cytokine profiles during Chlamydia muridarum genital infection. Active Hexose Correlated Compound (AHCC) is a mushroom extract known to modulate the immune system, the mechanism is not well known. The purpose of this study was to investigate if AHCC feeding to stressed mice would affect the pattern of surface marker expression of transcription factors and CD4+ T cell cytokines.  We hypothesized that AHCC feeding to stressed mice decreases the expression and secretion of GATA-3 and IL-4 in stressed mice compared to PBS-fed stressed mice. We used magnet enrichment protocols to isolate DCs from bone marrow and naïve T cells from the spleen. Naive T cells and matured DCs were co-cultured for 24 and 48 hours. A quantitative RT-PCR and ELISA were used to determine gene expression and secretion of cytokines, respectively. Our data show downregulation of transcription factor GATA-3 in AHCC-fed mice (-0.45 ) and upregulation of GATA-3  in PBS-fed stressed mice (+1.5). In contrast, transcription factors T-bet was upregulated in stress AHCC-fed (0.9) and non-stressed (+2.0) during infection. Moreover, non-stressed (+2.9) and AHCC-fed (+1.85) mice showed a significant upregulation of T-bet during Chlamydia muridarum genital infection. Increased secretion of IL-12 and IFN-g and decreased secretion of IL-4 and IL-23 was observed in AHCC-fed mice compared to PBS-fed mice. Overall, our results show that AHCC-feeding leads to the restoration of the function of the protective immune system against chlamydia genital infection. (Supported by NIH Grant P20GM103434 to the West Virginia IDeA Network for Biomedical Research Excellence and NIH Grant P20GM103434 awarded to Bluefield State College).
Gene expression profiles T helper cell chemokines, cytokines and transcription factors in the genital tract of a stress mouse model during Chlamydia muridarum infection
Authors: Punturi Brianna Brooke
Published: May 2022

A stress mouse model established in our laboratory showed that prolonged exposure of mice to cold water-induced stress results in elevated plasma norepinephrine levels, increased intensity of Chlamydia muridarum genital infection, and decreased functions of the immune system. The current study was designed to test whether Active Hexose Correlated Compound (AHCC) modulates the gene expression profiles of chemokines associated with either Thelper 1 (Th1) or Th2 in the stress model. We hypothesized that oral administration of AHCC feeding up-regulates the gene expression profiles of Th1 chemokines and Th1 transcription factors and increases the secretion of cytokines in Th cells and lysates of the genital tract. During the stressing period of 21 days, we mice either 300 mg/kg of AHCC or PBS per day using a gavage feeding technique. We used real PCR to determine gene expression of chemokines favoring Th1 or Th2 chemokines and cytokines. We used ELISA to assess cytokine production in the genital tract lysates. Oral administration of AHCC to stressed mice resulted in the up-regulation of Th1 chemokines. The level of mRNA fold-changes of CXCL10 (+2.2 fold), CXCL9 (+1.8 fold), and CCL5 (+2.fold) was observed. Moreover, AHCC feeding resulted in a significant increase in productions of interleukin-1b, and interleukin 10(IL-10) in the genital tract of stressed mice. However, the production of TNF-a and IL-6 were undetectable by ELISA. Although further study is needed, preliminary data suggest that AHCC feeding favors the production of protective cytokines in our stress mouse model. (Supported by NIH Grant P20GM103434 to the West Virginia IDeA Network for Biomedical Research Excellence and NIH Grant P20GM103434 awarded to Bluefield State College).
Effects of the biocide triclosan on multiple life stages of ferns Onoclea sensibilis and Osmunda claytoniana
Authors: Watson Mark Brian , Blackmon Morgan , Williams Devon Skye , Wyatt Autumn
Published: May 2022

The chemical triclosan is an antibacterial agent that was used in many consumer products, such as soaps, lotions, toothpaste, cosmetics and other personal care products.  Triclosan passes through the processes of wastewater treatment plants and ultimately contaminates rivers and other waterways.  The soil is also contaminated using wastewater sludge or biosolids as fertilizer on agricultural and reclamation land projects.   Triclosan has been shown to inhibit seed germination, growth rate, and development in wide variety of plants including many crop plants.   Aquatic algae are particularly sensitive to low levels of triclosan.              The purpose of this experiment is to investigate the effects of triclosan on the life cycle of the sensitive fern (Osmunda claytoniana), and the royal fern (Onoclea sensibilis).  The use of ferns in this study is important because they share a phylogenetic link between algae and higher plants.  Ferns also have a distinct heteromorphic life cycle that lends itself to examining the effects of environmental chemicals on different aspects of plant development.  Spores were germinated, grown to gametophyte stage and then allowed to produce sporophytes in the presence of concentrations of triclosan measured in contaminated agricultural lands.  Triclosan was found to inhibit spore germination, gametophyte growth and alter sporophyte development.
Challenges, Successes and Lessons Learned in Implementing Active Learning during the COVID-19 Pandemic Era
Authors: Panta Yogendra M , Hatipoglu Kenan , Rai Sanish
Published: May 2022

As the COVID-19 pandemic affected the way of our lives, both educators and students have been facing myriads of challenges in teaching and learning environment leading to several adaptations and transformations. Students’ learning and safety have been the focus of conversations in all levels of education since the beginning of the pandemic. However, most WVU Tech classes were operating in-person settings, the pandemic has played an important consideration in the way WVU Tech faculty shape their classes, especially harder for engineering & science educators where demonstrations and experimentations drive students’ learning. The challenges we faced during this difficult time forced us explore ways to keep active learning environment alive in the classroom. We, as educators from three different departments of WVU Tech College of Engineering & Sciences utilized various teaching techniques and computer tools in order to keep engaging students in the classroom. Through this paper, we will share our experiences on the specifics of the challenges, successes and lessons learned while implementing the active learning during the pandemic time. In previous years’ WVAS annual meetings, we presented about positive aspects of implementing effective teaching techniques including “active learning,” “demonstration-based learning” and recently “Embedding career guidance” and “Developing career ready skills.” We hope to share and learn greatly from each other through this West Virginia community of educators- WVAS.
WVNCC innovative technology use benefits physiology instructions during Covid-19 pandemic.
Authors: Omelchenko-Comer Natalia , CORBIN CHRISTOPHER , MONTGOMERY SCOTT
Published: May 2022

Inquiry based collaborative learning is a vital asset of modern physiology curriculum. Application of this approach is severely impacted by Covid-19 pandemic when face-to-face physiology laboratories must be modified to comply with needs of social distancing. Introduction of a new technology may mitigate some impact, but it is associated with adding to the complexity of educational activities and may interfere with the proper social dynamic of the classroom. WVNCC team designed a new learning environment, employed, and assessed use of a new technology in our biology laboratory in Weirton Campus.  Originally, during a typical physiology lab, each student operated IWorx physiology stations using a personal computer. The progress of the work was not easily shared with the other students or instructor in the classroom, especially when social distancing was maintained. A new educational environment allowed for an on-demand connection to a large screen monitor for all classroom computers and was achieved using a wireless Polycom Pano content sharing and wireless presentation system (Polycom, San Jose, CA). In a survey, students indicated that the provided equipment is seamlessly incorporated into the lesson and encourages active engagement. Eighty percent agreed that the new technology makes it easier to ensure that social distancing is maintained during collaborative learning. The innovative learning layout presented here allows for prompt guidance, effective collaboration between students, appropriate assessment of student performance. Our design idea and technical solution can be modified for various laboratories and be used during and after Covid-19 pandemic.
The analysis of the antimicrobial properties of copper alloys compared to stainless steel using a readily accessible procedure
Authors: Laya Rylee , Roof Steven , Flood Mark , Popovich Greg
Published: May 2022

In recent studies, copper’s antimicrobial properties have been studied in hospitals where infections spread from contact with high-touch surfaces are common, oftentimes using high expensive and advanced equipment. While these methods of analysis are not readily available for those in smaller laboratories or in classrooms; this research project aims to analyze copper alloys’ antimicrobial properties compared to stainless steel, using a procedure that can be easily replicated and expanded upon.   To test copper alloys’ effectiveness, I first had to collect samples from traditional dumbbells and analyze if microbes were present on the weights. These samples were collected and analyzed for the presence of microbes. For the in-lab part, a ten-fold serial dilution was used to make the number of bacterial colonies present quantifiable; this method used non-pathogenic Escherichia coli. Both the copper and stainless-steel metals were incubated for 15 minutes to mimic the amount of time an individual would spend with a specific weight. After the incubation, the metal pieces were taken out of the solution and dried on a sterile plate for 15 minutes. After the drying period, the metals were placed into PBS baths and immersed for 10 minutes to recover bacteria. After the PBS bath, the ten-fold dilution was performed and then plated and incubated at 37˚C for 24 hours. Once the 24-hour period was over, the colonies on the plates of both the copper and stainless-steel plates were counted, and it was determined that the plates of the copper metal had significantly fewer colonies.
Human dimensions of crayfish conservation in Appalachian coalfields
Authors: Allison Erin Braman , Loughman Zachary J.
Published: May 2022

Cambarus veteranus and Cambarus callainus are two closely related crayfish federally protected under the Endangered Species Act. While government protection provides vital funding for research and management initiatives, it is rare for the average citizen to be involved or impacted by this process. Less popular animal groups, such as invertebrates, lack public conservation support contributed by apathetic perceptions. The objective of this project is to foster appreciation for C. veteranus and C. callainus through public engagement. The Project Crawdadpilot is an education module designed for 3rd grade students. Five lesson plans, aligned with state standards, will allow students to explore local aquatic ecosystems, interact with native species, and develop experiments of their own design. Pre and post tests accompanied with each lesson will be facilitated to gauge student development. As community understanding and familiarity increases, potential pre-existing negative associations are likely to be supplanted by appreciation and sense of personal responsibility. This environmental education study aims to increase conservation literacy and stewardship of C. veteranus and C. callainus and the ecosystems they depend on.
Effects of Personalized Peer Tutoring with Students that are Under-Represented and/or in STEM Fields.
Authors: Broski Gabby , Pettry Alyssa , Lowdermilk Kiersten , Conley Katie , Meadows Amber , Henson Kristy
Published: May 2022

The First2 Club at Fairmont State University started a peer-tutoring program during the 2020/2021 academic year to help support STEM and under-represented students by offering free and personalized tutoring. This tutoring initiative currently has four tutors. The student tutors range from sophomore to senior and are all Natural Science majors. The tutors have set tutoring dates and appointments available to meet with students. Most tutoring is one-on-one, but can also be in a group setting. After the meetings, students complete a survey. Preliminary results show 73 tutoring sessions in chemistry, biology, and physics courses. These courses tend to be the courses with the highest turn-over rate. Students tutored met the following demographics: female, first-generation, LGBTQ, minority, and male. Thus far the peer-tutoring program has been successful in reaching underrepresented students in STEM courses in the hope to increase the pass rate. Results of grade increase have not been assessed.
Trophic Partitioning of Cambarus carinirostris, Cambarus robustus, and Faxonius obscurus in Kings Creek, WV by Stable Isotope Analysis
Authors: Miller Haley
Published: May 2022

The competitive exclusion principle states that no two species can share the same niche in nature.  Partitioning among coexisting species occurs through utilization of various food sources or differences in microhabitat preference.  The purpose of this study is to assess potential trophic partitioning between Cambarus carinirostris, Cambarus robustus, and Faxonius obscurus, three species of crayfish present in Kings Creek, Weirton, WV.  Analysis and comparison of individual carbon-13 and nitrogen-15 isotope signatures were used to establish organic matter transfer pathways and trophic structures in the ecosystem.  Representative trophic groups were sampled, spanning from macro-predators (e.g., smallmouth bass) to primary producers (e.g., macrophytes and algae).  All samples were analyzed for carbon-13 and nitrogen-15 by the Stable Isotope Ecology Laboratory at the University of Georgia.  Interspecific partitioning within the community was identified.  Smallmouth bass were top predators and crayfish were the second highest group. Between the three species of crayfish, interspecific partitioning was suggested.  The lowest and highest trophic levels were occupied by C. carinirostris and F. obscurus, respectively.  In addition, intraspecific partitioning within each crayfish species suggested that juveniles occupy a lower trophic level than adults, potentially signifying ontogenetic dietary shifts.  All analyzed data represent the summer season.  Winter results are pending and once available, the two seasons will be compared for any differences in trophic structure.
Using Ecological Parameters to Determine Valuable Monitoring Sites for Cambarus callainus in Eastern Kentucky, Southwestern Virginia, and Southwestern West Virginia
Authors: Cunningham Carly L
Published: May 2022

The Big Sandy crayfish(Cambarus callainus) is a federally threatened crayfish in the Big Sandy River Basin (U.S. Fish and Wildlife, 2019). To prevent this crayfish from becoming endangered, or worse extinct, proper habitat protection plans need to be taken. This study evaluates physical habitat and uses statistical analys to properly determine key monitoring sites for C. callainus. Substrate, instream coverage of water (such as woody debris), morphology for the channel, erosion of banks or riparian, flow quality, and elevation of the stream are used produce a quantitative overall number. Goodness of Fit Test for water basins and ANOVAs between previous studies of Loughman (2015) and Tidmore (2019) were used to create a description of monitoring sites. Loughman’s 2015 study showed that physical characteristics, especially slab embeddedness, to be a good indicator of C. callainus presence. However, this study still needs more statistical analysis to be performed for proper description of what sites to monitor for C. callainus.
Pandemic, trigger words, and the classroom
Authors: Seminsky Kaitlynne Nicole , Nicolella Madison , Yingling Clay , McDonald Megan , Hull Debra , Hull John
Published: May 2022

Our research concerns trigger words that elicit negative emotional responses in some circumstances, such as words with racist, sexist, or elitist associations. The focus of the present study was on words and phrases used to describe the Covid-19 pandemic, and how undergraduate students react to them in person or on-line interactions. Participants were 86 undergraduate volunteers, who individually read 14 words or phrases associated with the Covid-19 pandemic, for example, masking, “Six feet apart!”, and quarantine, rating them on 1-5 scales assessing negative-positive emotional response, and comfort in hearing them in a virtual class, in a face-to-face class, and using them in private conversation. Single-sample t tests showed that eight of the words and phrases: Covid-19, anti-vaxxer, “It’s just like the flu!”, Zoom, “Six feet apart!”, lockdown, sneeze/cough, quarantine – produced statistically significant negative emotional responses, while none produced a significantly positive emotional response. Related-samples t tests showed only one item – sneeze/cough – produced higher ratings of comfort in a virtual than in a face-to-face setting. Words that produced more positive emotional responses also produced higher ratings of comfort when used in private conversation. Our study shows that most pandemic-related trigger words produce negative emotional responses, but that those responses are similar in face-to-face and virtual settings. Future studies will examine other factors that may mediate response to Covid-19 trigger words, such as political affiliation, age, and race.
Big Sandy Crayfish (Cambarus callainus) Habitat Affinity in Proximity to Bridges and Assessed via Radio Telemetry
Authors: Dillard Zachary W , Loughman Zachary J
Published: May 2022

Cambarus callainus (Big Sandy Crayfish) is a federally threatened species endemic to the coalfields of Kentucky, Virginia, and West Virginia.  Existing datasets involving this species reflect broad/seasonal natural history trends, but conservation managers are still in need of a fine-scale, high resolution understanding of daily microhabitat utilization and movement patterns.  The WVDOT has identified multiple locations within C. callainus range where in-stream bridge infrastructure requires complete reconstruction in a timely manner.  Construction projects occurring within waterways supporting C. callainus could represent a threat to the crayfish community, but the extent of such effects is currently unknown.  To identify potential disruptions to C. callainus populations we aim to determine the extent of site fidelity, peak and minimum activity periods, and preferred microhabitat utilization assessed by radiotracking C. callainus during and after active construction.  Collected data will be interpreted to determine further conservation and management practices necessary for protection of C. callainus.  Findings will allow organizations such as the WVDOT to move forward with necessary infrastructure projects while mitigating further anthropogenic impact to this vulnerable species.
Characterizing Bone Marrow-derived Monocytes in a Stressed beta2 Adrenergic Receptor Knockout Male Mice during Chlamydia muridarum Lung Infection
Authors: Lilly Gavin Tanner , Belay Tesfaye
Published: May 2022

Several reports in the literature show that stress leads to increased susceptibility to infection, but relationship of stress and chlamydia remains to be explored. Monocytes play a significant role in protective immunity against chlamydia genital infections; however, the effect of stress on the function of monocytes is not known. During chronic stress conditions, the beta2 adrenergic receptor (b2-AR), as a ligand to norepinephrine (NE) hormone, shows to regulate immune function in the host. However, the effect and mechanism of b2-AR on chlamydia lung infection is not well known. The purpose of the study was to examine the susceptibility of a b2-AR knockout (KO) mouse model to Chlamydia muridarum lung infection; determine the function of bone marrow-derived dendritic cells (BMDMs). We hypothesize that deficiency in b2-AR leads to a decreased C. muridarum shedding from the lung of stressed b2-AR KO mice compared to stressed to wildtype (WT), C57BL/6J. After stressing mice for 21 days, mice will be infected intranasally. C. muridarum will be isolated from lung lysates in McCoy tissue culture, and inclusion bodies will be visualized and counted after staining with fluorescein isothiocyanate-labeled, anti-chlamydial antibody. BMDMs cells will be isolated, differentiated, and increased to determine proinflammatory cytokine production by ELISA. Results will show significant differences between stressed b2-AR KO and WT stressed of IFU/ml. Moreover, increased proinflammatory cytokine production will be observed in BMDMs stressed b2-AR KO compared to stressed WT, suggesting that mice lacking b2 AR have reverted to protective cytokine production to decrease infection.
Effects of An Anti-CTLA-4 Antibody Therapy on Metastatic Melanoma
Authors: Reichert Heidi , Wang Qing
Published: May 2022

CTLA-4 is a co-inhibitory molecule that functions to inhibit T cell functions, essentially acting as a break on the immune system. Antibodies that block the interaction of CTLA-4 with its ligands B7.1 and B7.2 can enhance immune responses, including anti-tumor immunity. These antibodies likewise trigger an expansion of tumor infiltrating Th1-like CD4 T cells. CTLA-4 blockade has demonstrated benefits in overall survival and harm reduction in the treatment of metastatic melanoma, which accounts for 80% of the 66,000 annual skin cancer deaths. More recently, efforts to combine anti-CTLA-4 antibodies with other forms of cancer treatment like radiotherapy and chemotherapy have proven to be successful. This study has focused on the modeling and analysis of the effects of anti-CTLA-4 antibody therapy alone on tumor growth using impulsive differential equations. The Jacobian matrix was constructed, evaluated at a tumor-free equilibrium, and evaluated for stability using experimental data. This project is supported by the NIH Grant P20GM103434 to the West Virginia IDeA Network for Biomedical Research Excellence.
The Presence and Impacts of Pollutants On Central Appalachian Crayfishes
Authors: Whitson Taylor Ross
Published: May 2022

Cambarus veteranus and Cambarus callainus are federally endangered and threatened crayfish, that live in the coalfields region of central Appalachia.  The dominant industry and land use in this region is coal mining.  Currently, the most common form of coal mining in this region is surface mining, also known as mountaintop removal mining.  There is a lack of data on the specific impacts of pollutants from mining on crayfish and their congeners.  Chemical pollutants along with increased sedimentation from industrial sources are known to cause adverse effects in crustaceans and can even be lethal.  It is crucial to better understand how these pollutants are affecting crayfishes inhabiting coalfield streams.  This study will assess the bioaccumulation of the metals arsenic (As), cadmium (Cd), chromium (Cr), lead (Pb), and selenium (Se) in non-imperiled cambarid crayfish that are being used as surrogate species for C. veteranus and C. callainus by analyzing the hepatopancreas and gill tissues.  Physical maladies, such as deformed dactyl and gill melanization, will also be quantified.  This data, as well as species abundance at each site, will be analyzed to better understand the effects of mining on crayfish.
Osteological Analysis of Rediscovered Teaching Skeletons at Fairmont State University
Authors: Pettry Alyssa , Bow Jay , Henson Kristy
Published: May 2022

Human skeletal remains are important teaching tools in natural science courses. Many teaching

skeletons at universities tend to be forgotten and stored away as they become damaged and are replaced with plastic models. Today, controversy over the ethical acquisition and treatment of skeletal material directly affects many museums and educational institutions. Skeletons tell us a substantial amount of information about each individual and how they lived, giving us an insight into different populations and lifestyles. An unknown number of teaching skeletons were discovered disarticulated, damaged, and stored in a backroom at Fairmont State University. As we do not know the exact means by which these teaching skeletons were acquired these individuals should be analyzed, repaired, and stored properly. For this project, we determined the minimum number of individuals (MNI) and completed standard osteological analyses for each individual. The MNI discovered was 44 while only 16 had enough bones to complete a standard osteological analysis. Standard osteometric and macroscopic analyses were performed on the individuals using Data Collection Procedures for Forensic Skeletal Material 2.0 and the Modified Istanbul Protocol. Age, sex, ancestry, height, metabolic bone disease, and potential cause of death were determined using standard paleopathological techniques. Preliminary results show that all individuals are over 20 years old, 3 individuals between 20-35 years, 3 between 35-50 years, 2 35+ years, and 6 20+ years old. Two individuals were of indeterminate sex, 3 probably male, and 5 probably female. Nine individuals were of Asian ancestry.
Analysis of E. coli trends in the Wheeling Creek watershed
Authors: Huff Emily , Wood James
Published: May 2022

Escherichia coli (E. coli) is a gut bacterium found in intestinal tracts of warm-blooded animals and pollutes water bodies through fecal contamination. At high concentrations some strains can cause serious illnesses if ingested by individuals. High concentrations of E. coli can also indicate the presence of other potentially harmful pathogens. Surface waters can become contaminated via nonpoint sources of runoff from agricultural lands and resident waterfowl population and point sources including leaking sewage infrastructure and combined sewer overflows (CSOs). In freshwaters E. coli can live free floating throughout the water column or attached to streambed sediments, and when these sediments are resuspended due to precipitation E. coli concentrations increase in the water column. The USEPA has set a maximum safe limit for recreational waters at 235 CFU/100 mL of water for a single sample and a 30-day five-sample mean of 126 CFU/100 mL. We chose seventeen sampling sites to monitor and identify trends and predictors of E. coli in Wheeling Creek watershed, in the northern panhandle of West Virginia. We measured water temperature, pH, dissolved oxygen, conductivity, chloride, and turbidity in the field and used an IDEXX system for E. coli quantification. Our results indicate that 51% of samples (125 out of 245) have exceeded that single sample safe limit (235 CFU/100ml). Escherichia coli concentrations are increasing with increasing urban development and show a positive correlation with turbidity, this could suggest that humans are the primary source of E. coli in Wheeling Creek.
Deletion of FTL_1199 to determine the role of this gene in erythrocyte invasion by Francisella tularensis.
Authors: Delatore III Elio , Roberts Elle , Horzempa Joseph , Cantlay Stuart
Published: May 2022

Francisella tularensis is a bacterium that induces the zoonotic disease tularemia.  In the course of infection, F. tularensis bacteria invade erythrocytes, a phenomenon that heightens the colonization of ticks after a blood meal.  To better understand the mechanism of erythrocyte invasion, we hypothesized that transcription of bacterial genes significant in erythrocyte invasion would be upregulated upon exposure to these host cells. An RNA-seq unveiled that transcription of 7% of F. tularensis genes augment when in erythrocyte presence. Of these, we pinpointed three putative transcriptional regulators, namely FTL_0671, FTL_1199, and FTL_1665.  The goal was to delete FTL_1199 in F. tularensis LVS.  Splicing by overlap extension PCR amplified and duplicated the up and downstream (~500 bp each) regions of the target gene in tandem into a shuttle vector that is insecure within F. tularensis.  This newly generated plasmid, pDEL1199, was mobilized inside of F. tularensis by conjugation.    Merodiploid strains generated by homologous recombination were isolated and transformed with pGUTS – a stable plasmid that encodes a homing endonuclease (I-SceI) and a kanamycin resistance cassette.  Expression of I-SceI within the merodiploid produces a double-stranded break in pDEL1199 that had previously integrated in the chromosome.  This breakage resulted in a second recombination that either ensued to wild-type or deletion of FTL_1199 deduced through a PCR.  Finally, in  DFTL_1199 strains, pGUTS was cured by successive cultivation in the absence of selection followed by replica-plating on chocolate II agar ± kanamycin. Gentamicin protection assays involving F. tularensis DFTL_1199 suggest that FTL_1199 is important in erythrocyte invasion.

 

(Supported by NIH Grant P20GM103434 to the West Virginia IDeA Network for Biomedical Research Excellence, R15HL14735 from NHLBI, and funds from the NASA West Virginia Space Grant Consortium).
Does Water Velocity and Seasonality alter Herbivory Pressure on Podostemum ceratophyllum Michx.?
Authors: Ashley Vankirk  , Ashley Vankirk
Published: May 2022

Podostemum ceratophyllum (Hornleaf Riverweed) is an aquatic macrophyte distributed along the Eastern United States with disjunctions in the Dominican Republic and Honduras. The plant primarily grows in fast-flowing, shallow streams and creates habitats for benthic macroinvertebrate communities. Previous studies in the Georgia Piedmont suggested that water velocity alters herbivory pressure, such that low water velocity increases herbivory resulting in a decrease in stem length and the overall biomass of Podostemum. The presumed consumers include crayfish, waterfowl, and turtles. We investigated the relationship between water velocity and herbivory in Middle Island Creek, Sistersville, WV, in the fall of 2021 by exposing the plant to herbivores in a low water velocity habitat for two weeks. We hypothesized that herbivory pressure would increase when Podostemum is relocated to low water velocity and exposed to consumers, decreasing stem length rapidly. However, our data found no significant difference in stem length between the consumer-exclosure and consumer-accessible treatment in the low-velocity habitat (t(8) = 0.23782 p > 0.01). These results suggest possible seasonal patterns in herbivory, as turtles and other herbivores may not be actively consuming Podostemum during cooler temperatures due to hibernation. This study provides new insight into seasonal patterns in herbivory pressure not previously observed. Further research will be conducted in the spring, summer, and fall seasons of 2022 in 3 to 4 streams in West Virginia and Pennsylvania.
Developing a Web App to Track Hospital ICU Bed Availability using ReactJS
Authors: Liao Weidong , MARTINEZ DAVID
Published: May 2022

COVID-19 has caused a dramatic shortage of hospital ICU beds. We have thus developed a Web app to track the availability of hospital ICU beds using React.js and other modern Web development technologies. Web development nowadays is increasingly moving towards leveraging JavaScript frameworks and libraries rather than using basic Web technologies such as HTML, CSS, and vanilla JavaScript to facilitate the implementation of dynamic features and functionalities of modern Rich Internet Applications. React or ReactJS has cemented itself as the frontrunner in a sea of competing JavaScript frameworks. In this presentation, we give an overview of the functionalities that make ReactJS a stand-out option, present the foundational features that create deep flexibility while also maintaining robust functionality, outline the flattened learning curve that makes React an attractive choice for new and seasoned developers, and describe the implementation and features of our Web App.
Investigation of crayfish abundance in proximity to bridges, with emphasis on the Threatened Big Sandy crayfish (C. callainus)
Authors: Dillard Zachary Wade , Scott Katie , Loughman Zachary
Published: May 2022

The Big Sandy Crayfish, Cambarus callainus, is a large-bodied crustacean which inhabits third order streams within the Levisa, Tug, and Russel Fork basins throughout the conjunction of West Virginia, Virginia, and Kentucky.  In 2016, C. callainus was federally designated as Threatened under the Endangered Species Act (ESA), which ushered in long‑needed attention and protection for the species.  ESA benefits are broad in scope and highly beneficial to the species persistence and recovery.  However, such broad levels of protection necessitate intense levels of scrutiny and regulation for development projects transpiring near confirmed or expected occurrences of protected species.  West Virginia as a whole needs updated infrastructure, and this is especially true for the southern coalfields where C. callainus persists.  Due to recent surges of funding through the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, West Virginia is set to receive $3.7 billion dollars designated specifically for the repair or replacement of bridges and highways.  Many bridges on the docket for maintenance/reconstruction cross streams within C. callainus distribution.  Herein, I propose a C. callainus crayfish survey and habitat modeling project to determine whether this species exhibits preference, avoidance, or indifference to those bridge crossings in most dire need of repair or replacement.  This project will enable private and public infrastructure entities to more efficiently generate mitigation and harm‑reduction protocols, and will reduce unexpected expenditures related to ESA protections.
Profile of CD8+ T-cells in a Stressed beta2- Adrenergic Receptor Knockout Mouse Model during Chlamydia muridarum Genital Infection.
Authors: Ray Alexis , Belay Tesfaye
Published: May 2022

Chlamydia trachomatis is the most common bacterial sexually transmitted disease. A negative correlation between the immune system and stress has been reported. We have demonstrated that cold-induced stress (CIS) increases the intensity of Chlamydia muridarum genital infection in a mouse model, but the status of CD8+ T cells is still unknown. This study profiles CD8+ T cell’s interaction with stress hormone; norepinephrine (NE) and the beta2-adrenergic receptor (β2-AR) in the presence of agonists and antagonists; and examines cytokines produced in the β2-AR knockout (KO) stress mouse model during C. muridarum genital infection.   We hypothesize that CD8+ T cells produce high-level IFN-g and low-level TNF-a in stressed β2-AR KO mice than C57BL/6J wildtype (WT).   Two groups of mice were cold-water stressed for 21 days, infected with C. muridarum, and then sacrificed for CD8+ T cell isolation. Viability was tested. The proliferation of CD8+ T cells was carried out for 72 h and culture supernatant was collected for cytokine production using ELISA. To confirm genital tract infection, Chlamydia muridarum isolation is underway. Our data show that the viability of CD8+ T cells treated with NE was significantly reduced compared to cells treated with LPS or Con A, indicating the suppressive effect of NE on immune cells. Stressed β2-AR KO mice displayed increased production of protective cytokines compared to stressed WT mice, indicating the absence of β2-AR leads to the functional restoration of protective immune cells.
Habitat Use and Niche Partitioning of Regina septemvittata and Nerodia sipedon in a Small Appalachian Stream in West Virginia
Authors: Sanclemente Justin , Storer Nicoleena , Ringhiser Brian , Loughman Zachary
Published: May 2022

The common water snake, Nerodia sipedon, and the queen snake, Regina septemvittata are two species of stream-dwelling water snakes in the Family Natricidae native to the northern panhandle of West Virginia. Nerodia sipedon is a large-bodied generalist, ranging up to 140 cm in length and 400 g in mass, which feeds on many fish and amphibian species. Regina septemvittata is a smaller specialist, reaching only 92 cm in length and 100 g in mass, which primarily consumes freshly molted crayfish. In an ongoing study conducted by students at West Virginia University, I studied the habitat preferences of both of these species in the North fork of Short Creek as there has been little research done on habitat preferences in small streams. Morphological, environmental, and behavioral data on each snake that was captured. Qualitative habitat evaluation indexes (QHEI) were also collected to assess stream health in conjunction with presence and abundance of both species. No significant differences were found in the presence or abundance as it relates to QHEI, but trends show higher rates of presence and abundance in sites with lower QHEI scores. These results suggest that there is minimal interspecific competition of habitat present between N. sipedon and R. septemvittata, as well as support the hypothesis that both species thrive in more disturbed habitats.
Distribution of ixodid ticks in North-Central West Virginia
Authors: White Nathan , Withrow Kaelin , Zinn Haley , Sal Melanie , Bjorgo-Thorne Kim
Published: May 2022

Determining the type and amount of different tick species in an area can allow for more area-specific precautions to be implemented to prevent transmission of disease. The objective of this study was to assess the occurrence rate of ixodid tick species in North-Central West Virginia, and to use this data to compile a record of how often each species is found in the area.Ticks were collected using flags and drags made from white denim and corduroy, respectively. (Newman et al., 2019). We also left collection vials at pet groomers and veterinary offices in the area. A total of 344 ticks were collected and identified. We detected six different species including Ixodes scapularis, Dernacentor variabilis, Rhipicephalus sanguineus, Haemaphysalis leporispalustris, and Ixodes affinis.The highest in-field success yielded thirty-eight ticks one day and the least being zero. The majority of ticks collected were  I. scapularis, carriers of the bacteria that causes Lyme disease. D. variabilis ticks were the next highest density.  Drags were the least effective collection method. Flagging was the most effective in the field, while veterinary partnerships yielded the most ticks overall.High success of field collection methods could be related to the time of year. Future research will continue developing a testing protocol for real-time PCR testing sampled ticks for Borrelia burgdorferi, the causative agent of Lyme disease. We plan to also address PCR testing on D variabilis for spotted fever rickettsiosis, which is increasing throughout the Eastern USA.
A comprehensive review of the environmental impacts of hydropower projects in Sarawak, Malaysia
Authors:   Faculty of Engineering, Computing, and Science, Swinburne University of Technology Sarawak, 93350 Kuching, Malaysia, Durin Xavier O’neal , Ming Brendon Moi Xuen , Karunakaran Prashanth Prashobh , Sin Lucas Leong Wun , Nabipour Afrouzi Hadi , Mehranzamir Kamyar ,   Department of Electrical and Electronic Engineering, Faculty of Science and Engineering, University of Nottingham Malaysia, Jalan Broga, 43500 Semenyih, Selangor, Malaysia
Published: May 2022

Sarawak is a state in Malaysia that has many potential sites for hydropower dams as Sarawak houses many hilly areas which are yet to be developed. As a result, many hydropower dams were proposed in Sarawak. This paper reviews the environmental and social impacts of hydropower projects in Sarawak. The murky river waters of Sarawak contributed to a high level of sedimentation in the hydroelectric plant reservoirs which increases the emission of greenhouse gases through mineralization and indirectly affects the lifespan of a hydroelectric plant. The ecosystem is adversely affected by the loss of trees, destruction of habitat for flora and fauna, and the narrowing of rivers due to sedimentation. The construction of hydropower plants forces nearby indigenous communities to relocate, which are given compensation by the Sarawak government. The issues behind the relocation process are explored in this paper with further details. The communities that are affected by the construction of the hydropower dams will have to be displaced from their original lands; thus, the approach by the government to compensate the affected locals in Sarawak is explored in this paper.
ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL PERFORMANCE LEVEL OF PT INDOFOOD SUKSES MAKMUR TBK LISTED ON THE STOCK EXCHANGE INDONESIA (EMPIRICAL STUDY IN FINANCIAL STATEMENTS PERIOD 2018-2020)
Authors: Maulana Indra , Rahmawati Rahmawati , Helmiati Helmiati
Published: May 2022

This study aims to determine the level of performance of the company's financial health during 2018-2020 based on the Decree of the Minister of SOEs No. KEP-100/MBU/2002 at the company PT. Indofood Sukses Makmur Tbk. The analysis techniques used by the author in this study are: (1) Calculating the value of each financial aspect indicator, (2) Determining the score of each financial aspect indicator from 2018-2020, by comparing the value of each financial aspect indicator. . (3) Summing up the scores of all indicators of the financial aspect, then the total score of the financial aspect is compared with the Decree of the Minister of SOEs No. KEP-100/MBU/2002. (4) Draw conclusions whether the company is in a healthy, unhealthy or unhealthy condition based on the results of the analysis of the assessment criteria above. Based on the results of data analysis can be seen that: PT. Indofood Sukses Makmur Tbk, from 2018-2020 was in an unhealthy condition based on the Decree of the Minister of BUMN Number: KEP-100/MBU/2002. Therefore, to improve the level of financial health of the company, it is expected that the company's management can improve the company's financial performance in the future.
How we developed both inside and outside a “games and
multiliteracies” seminar: A comparison of a society-focused
journey and a self-focused journey
Authors: Furusawa Kazuna , Yoshida Haruna
Published: May 2022

Teachers: help students believe in themselves. Students can do more than you
think they can with your help. Believe in them. They will develop on various
paths!
⇨ society
⇩
myself
Read our paper. You’ll see - it works!
#WeAreStillOnAJourneyAndAreStillThinkingAboutCatchyHashtags
English Escape! Using breakout games in the intermediate to advanced EFL classroom
Authors: Bradford Coleen , Brown Vanessa , El Houari Meriam , Trakis Jason , Weber Julia , Buendgens-Kosten Judith
Published: May 2022

Breakout games rock — not as a poorly gamified collection of worksheets, but as opportunities to cooperate and collaborate in the target
language, to engage in metalinguistic discussions, and to identify one’s
own strengths and weaknesses. #edubreakout #llp