bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Friend or Foe: Investigating the Relationship between a Corn Crop and a Native Ragweed Population
Authors: Wainwright Douglas G , Soltes Garner R
Published: September 2023

As the demand for food increases with the ever-growing world population, crop production and growing efficiency must also be sustainably increased. Many factors, including energy cost, land allocation, and water usage are known to have a great impact on crop production. In particular, competition from invasive and native species can greatly decrease the growth and viability of crops. In this work, we explored the relationship between a competitive plant species growth and crop yield. Thus, we measured the effects of competition from a non-crop population on field corn crop yield, comparing a test sample in which weeds were allowed to grow freely and a control sample in which weed growth was not permitted. Interestingly, after observing growth over several weeks, we found that the test sample containing the competitive species actually outperformed the control sample in terms of the corn population’s height, ear yield, and mass of crop produced. This led us to conduct soil testing on both populations to quantify nutrient availability. We found that levels of calcium and/or magnesium were more abundant in the soil of our no-weed control sample compared to our test sample and could be inhibiting growth. From this experiment, we concluded that the relationship between crops and their neighboring species is more complex than competition alone, and depending on the circumstances, non-crop species can enhance growth.
Mutation of the Catalytic Cysteine in Anopheles gambiae Transglutaminase 3 (AgTG3) Abolishes Plugin Crosslinking Activity without Disrupting Protein Folding Properties
Authors: Pham Minh-Quan D , Baxter Richard HG
Published: September 2023

Malaria is a devastating parasitic infectious disease with an enormous impact on public health and economic growth, particularly in Sub-Saharan Africa. Besides advances in anti-malarial drugs and vaccine development, a successful malaria eradication program relies on controlling the mosquito vector. In this study, we pursue a novel approach for malaria vector control by inhibiting an enzyme important for ensuring reproductive success of the mosquito Anopheles gambiae. The enzyme, A. gambiae transglutaminase 3 (AgTG3), catalyzes the cross-linking of its native substrate Plugin, which is then transferred to a female mosquito in a coagulated mass known as the mating plug. Interfering with AgTG3-catalyzed mating plug formation prevents efficient sperm storage, with a direct consequence on fertility. This study demonstrates that the mutation of a highly conserved cysteine residue in AgTG3 (Cys323) abolishes its cross-linking activity without disrupting other properties of the enzyme such as protein folding and oligomeric assembly. These results suggest that Cys323 is an active site residue and support the design of specific inhibitors targeting this site as a promising strategy to reduce the malaria disease burden worldwide.
Mapping QTLs for Popping Ability in a Popcorn × Dent Maize Genetic Cross
Authors: Jain-Poster Ketan , Woodford-Thomas Terry
Published: September 2023

Corn (maize, Zea mays L.) is one of the world’s most economically important grain crops. When exposed to heat, its starch-filled kernels pop and cook into puffs. The high demand for popcorn has spurred research to discover traits that dictate its idiosyncratic popping abilities. The purpose of this investigation is to study favorable popping traits and locate the regions on the maize chromosomes that show affiliation with such traits. Traits of interest include the kernel popping efficiency, the kernel popping expansion volume, the popping phenotype, and the average kernel size. In this study, kernel popping characteristics were assessed on 112 recombinant inbred corn lines from a large field population made by crossing B73 dent corn with popcorn line HP301. With a genetic marker linkage map available for the ten maize chromosomes, an analytical procedure called quantitative trait locus (QTL) mapping was done to determine chromosomal regions in the maize genome that may be important in the popping phenotype, based on the traits analyzed. QTL computer analysis revealed two QTLs for kernel popping efficiency on chromosomes 7 and 8, two additional QTLs for popping expansion volume on chromosomes 1 and 3, two QTLs for average kernel size on chromosomes 1 and 3, and one popping phenotype QTL on chromosome 2. The results of the QTL and maize phenotype correlation studies have relevance for better understanding the molecular basis of the popping phenotype. Furthermore, they could have practical applications in enhancing marketable popcorn.
Characterization of a UPEC DegS Mutant in vitro and in vivo
Authors: Bradley Indira C , Danka Elizabeth S
Published: September 2023

Escherichia coli DegS is an integral inner membrane protein that breaks down incorrectly assembled proteins and helps regulate the σ ᴱ stress response pathway. When degS is deleted, approximately 200-fold more outer membrane vesicles (OMVs) are produced. As OMVs contain sections of the outer membrane and proteins from the periplasm, they may play a role in the virulence of E. coli. To test whether degS or OMVs play a role in uropathogenic E. coli (UPEC) virulence, we characterized a degS mutant. We found that the degS deletion did not affect the morphology of the bacterium, but did result in decreased virulence in vivo and in vitro. When we tested our mutant in a murine model of cystitis, mice infected with degS::cat bacteria had a 100-fold decrease in bacterial titers in the bladder at 24 hours post-infection. In vitro binding and invasion assays showed no difference in the ability to bind to host cells, but a significant decrease in the ability of mutant bacteria to invade cells. Together, these data suggest that degS deletion decreases the virulence of E. coli and that an increase in OMV production may be a detriment to virulence. Future studies can separate the role of degS and OMV production in UPEC virulence.
The Effect of Various Liquid Mediums on the Transport of Photonic Energy and its Impact on the Quantum Efficiency of Photovoltaic Cells
Authors: Payra Syamantak , Long Susan
Published: September 2023

Photons from sunlight with energy slightly higher than that of the band gap of silicon create electric current within a photovoltaic (PV) cell. However, many photons from sunlight have either insufficient or excess energy. This study was conducted to find the effect of different photon transmission mediums on the temperature and voltage output of photovoltaic cells. Two different photovoltaic cells were tested under a 20-watt halogen lamp with 6 transmission mediums: 5% NaCl solution, 5% sugar solution, deionized (DI) water, canola oil, extra virgin olive oil (EVOO), and the control (air). It was hypothesized that the mediums with higher specific heats would result in relatively lower temperature increases, maintain higher voltages and have increased efficiencies compared to the mediums with lower specific heats. The voltage drop for EVOO, canola oil and air were higher than that of the aqueous solutions such as 5% sugar solution, 5% NaCl, or DI water. The results show an estimated increase of 5-6% in the performance of conventional photovoltaic cells by simply placing a layer of aqueous solution above the PV cell.
Identification of a Free Radical Scavenger as an Additive for Lung Transplant Preservation Solution to Inhibit Coagulative Necrosis and Extend Organ Preservation
Authors: Ganesh Durga , Alonzo Amanda
Published: September 2023

Among the routine organs being transplanted, the lungs and heart deteriorate the fastest during transport from the donor to the recipient. Only 15–20% of cadaveric donor lungs are usable for transplant. Lungs can be preserved for transport in cold ischemic, hypothermic preservation solutions for only 4 to 6 hours. Extending lung preservation time would allow for greater organ transport distances, as well as for better assessment and repair of harvested organs. This research aims to extend the transport life of lungs in hypothermic preservation solution. Significant coagulative necrosis, a pattern of cell damage due to free radicals, develops in the donated lung during cold storage transport. We hypothesized that application of antioxidants can prevent free radical–induced cell damage; the goal of this study is to identify antioxidants that are effective in reducing free radical–induced damage to lungs over time. To accomplish this goal, several antioxidants were evaluated for preserving bovine lung cell morphology at two time points. Vitamin E and butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT) were found to be the most effective at arresting cell damage. We recommend further evaluation of different concentrations of vitamin E and BHT as additives to organ preservation solutions used today.
The Effect of Positive and Negative Reinforcement on Sixth Graders’ Mental Math Performance
Authors: Greene Tess , Todd Amber
Published: September 2023

We examined the relationship between different forms of reinforcement and subjects’ mathematical performance. Thirty sixth-grade students were asked to mentally calculate answers to fraction problems, while holding a heart rate monitor, after receiving a positive, negative, or neutral form of reinforcement. While the results suggest that any motivation, positive or negative, may result in higher grades, the positive reinforcement group displayed the largest gain. However, the results were not statistically significant, though the trend was consistent with prior research. The heart rates of the positively-reinforced group were significantly lower than those of the negatively-reinforced and control groups. These results suggest that motivation through reward, rather than punishment, has a greater effect on the performance of students academically and may increase their grades, as well as lower heart rates during assessments.
Ant Colony Optimization Algorithms with Multiple Simulated Colonies Offer Potential Advantages for Solving the Traveling Salesman Problem and, by Extension, Other Optimization Problems
Authors: Wildenhain M Evan , Sacco Ian
Published: September 2023

The traveling salesman problem (TSP) is a classic problem in optimization, frequently used for measuring the performance of optimization algorithms. The goal in solving the TSP is to determine the lowest-cost circuit through a set of cities on a graph. Ant colony optimization (ACO) algorithms, inspired by nature, use simulated ants that modify their environment through laying and removing pheromone, represented by weights on the edges of the graph connecting each city. In this study, a novel algorithm is developed, Multi-Colony System (MCS), which uses multiple colonies of simulated ants in combination to produce superior solutions to the TSP. In comparison with Ant Colony System (ACS), a standard well-performing ACO algorithm, MCS has displayed improved performance, producing tours up to 19.4% shorter than those of ACS in the same amount of time. The performance of MCS in this study presents potential advantages in applications beyond the TSP, including the ability of multiple colonies to both develop a greater number of solutions simultaneously and to more efficiently avoid local maxima in the search space.
Transcriptional Regulators are Upregulated in the Substantia Nigra of Parkinson’s Disease Patients
Authors: Cowherd Marianne , Lee Inhan
Published: September 2023

Parkinson’s disease (PD) affects approximately 10 million people worldwide with tremors, bradykinesia, apathy, memory loss, and language issues. Though such symptoms are due to the loss of the substantia nigra (SN) brain region, the ultimate causes and complete pathology are unknown. To understand the global gene expression changes in SN, microarray expression data from the SN tissue of 9 controls and 16 PD patients were compared, and significantly upregulated and downregulated genes were identified. Among the upregulated genes, a network of 33 interacting genes centered around the cAMP-response element binding protein (CREBBP) was found. The downstream effects of increased CREBBP-related transcription and the resulting protein levels may result in PD symptoms, making CREBBP a potential therapeutic target due to its central role in the interactive gene network affected in PD SN.
Investigating Lymphocytic Involvement in Minimal Change Nephrotic Syndrome
Authors: Muncan Brandon , Costi Simona , Tudose Nicolae
Published: September 2023

Minimal change nephrotic syndrome, also known as minimal change disease (MCD) or minimal change nephrosis, is a subcategory of non-inflammatory glomerulopathy – a degenerative disorder of the main functional unit of the kidney. Neither the cause nor the pathogenesis of minimal change nephrotic syndrome is known. A destructive epithelial disorder would explain the clinical signs of MCD such as proteinuria (excessive protein in the urine), hypoalbuminemia (low serum albumin), and hyperlipidemia (high serum lipids). As a result of the association between the diagnosis of minimal change disease (MCD) and a history of heightened immune responses, it is believed that MCD may be caused by a disorder of T lymphocytes. It is suspected that T-lymphocytic deregulation may release lymphokines toxic to the glomerular basement membrane, which in turn leads to increased ultrastructural permeability (thus leading to symptoms of MCD). We investigated the hypothesis that minimal change nephrotic syndrome is caused by abnormal T lymphocytes, specifically CD4 T cells, as they are known to be involved in many microscopic degenerative kidney disorders involving increased membranous permeability [1]. To test this hypothesis, we measured T-cell counts in peripheral blood samples by flow cytometry. We found that eight of ten patients had decreased CD4:CD8 ratio, thus strengthening the immune involvement postulate of MCD. More specifically, we found the number of CD4 cells to be abnormally low; the results in this study can be used to further investigate whether or not MCD is a true autoimmune disorder. Understanding T-lymphocyte abnormalities in MCD can lead to further research efforts in finding a cause for MCD.
Negative Effects of Pollution on English Daisy (Bellis perennis) Height and Flower Number
Authors: Cohen-Sandler Rose , Furness Tia , Gearing Sam , Moore Jacob L
Published: September 2023

River pollution is an increasingly serious issue that can lead to an imbalance in an ecosystem. Chemicals found in fertilizers and pesticides, such as phosphate and nitrogen, often end up in nearby water and can have a negative effect on surrounding plant life. In this experiment, we assessed the effect of water containing different nitrogen levels on the height and number of mature flowers of the English daisy (Bellis perennis). We compared English daisy plants exposed to water with high levels of added nitrogen (representing high pollution), low levels of added nitrogen (representing low pollution), and tap water. The high pollution treatment caused plants to decrease in height over three weeks. Plants in the low pollution treatment increased in height the first week, but then decreased during weeks two and three. The plants treated with tap water stayed fairly constant in height during the experiment. There was a small increase in the number of mature flowers in the low pollution treatment, while the plants exposed to the high pollution treatment and tap water treatment both lost similar numbers of flowers. This indicates that there is a negative effect of pollution on plant height and an inconclusive effect on number of mature flowers. Further studies, including beginning plants from seedlings and investigating the effects of different chemical pollutants, are needed to determine the full effect of water pollution on the English daisy.
The Protective Effects of Panax notoginseng Saponin on the Blood-Brain Barrier via the Nrf2/ARE Pathway in bEnd3 Cells
Authors: Yang Jinting , Zhou Ningna
Published: September 2023

Cerebral microvascular endothelial cells (CMECs) are the main component of the blood-brain barrier (BBB), a critical determinant in the selective diffusion of substances into the brain. The injury of CMECs by oxidative stress contributes to BBB disruption, which is related to neurological diseases. Activation of the Nrf2/ARE pathway is one of the most critical endogenous defense mechanisms against cellular damage caused by oxidative stress. Substances that activate the Nrf2/ARE pathway are therefore potential neuroprotectants. We investigated the potential protective effects of the total saponins in the leaves of Panax notoginseng (LPNS) on oxidative-stress-induced damage in bEnd3 cells (a mouse cerebral microvascular endothelial cell line). Lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) assays indicated that LPNS protects against H₂O₂-induced cell death in both a concentration- and time-dependent manner. Pretreatment of bEnd3 cells with 10 μg/mL LPNS for 24 h significantly increased expression of the tight junction proteins claudin-1 and claudin-5, activated Nrf2 (shown by nuclear translocation), and up-regulated Nrf2’s downstream antioxidant genes including heme oxygenase1 (HO-1, HMOX1 gene) and NAD(P)H:quinone oxidoreductase 1 (NQO-1). This study demonstrates for the first time that the protective effects of LPNS on CMECs involve the activation of the Nrf2/ARE pathway and indicate that LPNS may be a potential therapeutic candidate for treating neurological diseases.
Spelling Bee: A Study on the Motivation and Learning Strategies Among Elementary and Junior-High Student Competitors
Authors: Payra Syamantak , Cardona Stephanie
Published: September 2023

The spelling bee is among the oldest educational competitions in the United States of America, dating back to as far as the 1700s. With an increasing number of young English language learners from diverse socio-economic backgrounds, it has become increasingly important to adequately support this young generation in building a solid foundation in spelling and vocabulary, leading to greater literacy. The spelling bee, an educational competition of spelling and vocabulary, can be an exciting, enriching experience. In order to understand how to support these young minds, we examined the study tools that elementary and junior-high level spellers use to prepare for the spelling bee and the factors that affect their engagement. By surveying spellers, this study investigated the role of student motivation and the use of various learning strategies in preparation for competition in spelling bees. Supplementing the broad range of techniques and strategies, the findings suggest that learning and fun are the major motivating factors for spellers who exhibit continued participation in spelling bees. Spellers preferred digital materials over paper-based reference materials and valued the flexibility of learning with their self-planned approaches. The results have broad implications, such as in educational course design and instruction, in which taking individual uniqueness into account can allow for differentiation and individualized learning tailored to student needs.
An Exploration of a Honey-Ginger Supplement as an Antimicrobial Agent
Authors: Phillips Shelby , Patel Pooja , Dixon Erin , Gonzalez Kimberly A
Published: September 2023

Many bacterial strains have become resistant to antibiotics, such as methicillin, novobiocin,

vancomycin, and penicillin. Due to the increase in antimicrobial resistance, alternative medicinal therapies are being explored. Studies have shown that honey and ginger alone have antimicrobial effects on the genera Staphylococcus and Escherichia, including S. epidermidis and E. coli. This study tested whether a honey-ginger supplement, Jengimiel™, could be used as an antimicrobial agent against S. epidermidis and E. coli K-12. The data showed that Jengimiel™ exhibited no antimicrobial activity against either S. epidermidis or E. coli K-12, and therefore should not be used as an antimicrobial agent against these organisms. The limitations of this study include the fact that perhaps this supplement does not contain a high enough concentrations of honey and/or ginger in order to observe an antimicrobial effect in our studies. Future testing should explore whether or not different concentrations of this supplement would inhibit the growth of these organisms, as well as other bacterial species. It would also be worth exploring whether or not this supplement serves as a prebiotic, stimulating the growth of these bacterial strains.
The Clinical Accuracy of Non-Invasive Glucose Monitoring for ex vivo Artificial Pancreas
Authors: Levy Maya M , Levy Yair
Published: September 2023

Diabetes is a serious worldwide epidemic that affects a growing portion of the population. While the most common method for testing blood glucose levels involves finger pricking, it is painful and inconvenient for patients. We compared the glucose levels measured noninvasively from tears to those obtained from capillary blood in 10 diabetic and non-diabetic patients. In addition, we assessed the clinical accuracy of the newly developed non-invasive tear glucose monitoring system using a Clarke Error Grid Analysis (EGA) and tested if such a relationship is individualized or universal. A glucose meter circuit was built to analyze capillary blood and right- and left-eye tear fluids, and the results

were compared with those of a commercial glucose meter, which was used as the reference in the EGA. The prediction of glucose values from the voltages using linear regression showed the non-invasive system to be clinically accurate and universal. This result suggests that the coupling of a non-invasive glucose monitoring system, such as one that detects glucose in tears, with an insulin pump may be clinically feasible as an ex vivo artificial pancreas treatment. By employing this ex vivo artificial pancreas, many of the complications associated with frequent hyperglycemia and hypoglycemia events could be avoided, increasing the quality of life.
The Emergence of Tetracycline Resistance in Rumen Bacteria
Authors: Memili Aylin , Wang Xiaoqiang , Lu Shien , Memili Erdogan
Published: September 2023

The emergence of antibiotic-resistant bacteria is a major concern for human health because current antibiotics have become ineffective in treating diseases caused by the antibiotic-resistant pathogenic bacteria. The objective of this study was to test the hypothesis that exposing rumen bacteria to tetracycline will gradually lead to the development of tetracycline-resistant bacteria, some of which will become multidrug resistant bacteria. To achieve this objective, rumen fluid containing bacteria were cultured on agar plates containing tetracycline to select for tetracycline-resistant bacteria, which were then cultured on Tryptic Soy Broth (TSB) agar containing chloramphenicol, ampicillin, and kanamycin antibiotics. The results showed that, of the ten tetracycline-resistant bacteria that were previously isolated as resistant to tetracycline at 12 µg/mL, eight isolates were still able to survive in TSB agar supplemented with 25 µg/mL tetracycline. All but one bacterial isolate also grew on TSB agars supplemented with chloramphenicol, ampicillin, and kanamycin. PCR results of 16S rRNA suggest that isolates consisted of the Sphingobacterium, Stenotrophomonas, and Microbacterium genuses. These results are significant because they show that some rumen bacteria are capable of developing resistance to tetracycline and may subsequently cause untreatable diseases in humans.
Bacterial Richness of Soil Samples from Southern New Hampshire
Authors: Chalasani Meghana , Chen Carissa , Clinton Alyse , Cotter Dylan , Dickinson Patrick , Duff Peter , Epler Nora , Gallup Thomas , Gibson Keegan , Haigney Myles , Jones Sydney , Ju Rebecca , Kang Kaitlyn , Kumar Mahesh , Martel Katherine , Nickerson Michaela , Papadakis Lena , Price Stephen , Rajan Arjun , Rajiv Rohit , Rao Sagar , Schroeder Devin , Shepley David , Suen Oscar , Sullivan Caroline , Tuchler Andrew , Upadhyayula Rohan , Ward Elizabeth , Zhang Wei Xiao , Janicki Erik , Rankin Anne
Published: September 2023

As DNA sequencing has become more popular, knowledge about the soil microbiome has expanded considerably. This technological advancement has led to a greatly increased understanding about the role of bacteria in soil. Previous studies have shown that, while geographic proximity plays a minor role in determining species richness (1), there exists a direct correlation between microbial diversity and both soil pH (1) and plant variety (2). In this paper, we examine the microbial content of soil samples taken from three locations in southern New Hampshire with varying pH and plant composition. We found that a minority of genera were shared between all three sites, and most genera were present in only one site, confirming the theory that soil microbes are site-dependent. The three shared, genera as well as the genera unique to specific samples, were paraphyletic. Our data suggests that pH is not the only factor affecting microbial composition, thereby confirming previous research and contributing to the understanding of the interaction between microbial communities and soil. While pH may affect microbial species richness (1), our results demonstrate that other factors, such as soil management techniques, play a larger role in the distribution of genera between different soil sites.
Characterization of Inflammatory Cytokine Gene Expression in a Family with a History of Psoriasis
Authors: Dobak Alex , Yao Timothy , Hanhan Maesa , Allen Talisha , Jansen Burkhard
Published: September 2023

Psoriasis is a heritable disease characterized by abnormal red and itchy skin patches. To determine if the children of a father with psoriasis express psoriasis-related biomarkers without demonstrating clinical signs of the disease, epidermal skin from the mastoid process behind the ear was harvested from four family members, RNA was extracted from it, and the expression of ten genes involved in the inflammatory cytokine pathway of psoriasis were analyzed by qRT-PCR. Gene expression for TNF-α, a cytokine known to cause psoriasis, was found to be consistent with the family members’ disease status; while the father showed elevation of TNF-α gene expression, TNF-α was not expressed in other family members. No other inflammatory cytokines associated with psoriasis were found to be significantly elevated including in the mother, who is disease-free and served as a control. Antimicrobial peptides and other markers of active psoriatic disease were not elevated in the father or other family members. Elevations in lymphocyte migration factor and IL-23a found in one child could be explored as potential predisposing factors to future disease development.
Peptidomimetics Targeting the Polo-box Domain of Polo-like Kinase 1
Authors: Jang Jihoon , Burke Terrence R
Published: September 2023

Polo-like kinase 1 (Plk1) is a master regulator of mitosis, activating key proteins that are involved in processes such as spindle assembly, centrosome maturation, and anaphase regulation. Certain types of cancers, including breast and stomach cancers, rely heavily on Plk1 overexpression for their growth and proliferation. Therefore, Plk1 is being investigated as a target for cancer drugs. Efforts to inhibit Plk1 have focused on the development of ATP-competitive small molecules directed at the kinase domain; however, these compounds can have dose-limiting toxicities attributed to off-target inhibition. Alternatively, peptide-based ligands targeted to the C-terminal polo-box domain (PBD) can inhibit the proper localization of Plk1, resulting in disrupted kinase activity and mitotic arrest. Here we synthesized and evaluated peptides and peptidomimetics derived from proteins known to interact with Plk1, which include polo-box interacting protein 1 (PBIP1), 205-kDa microtubule-associated protein (Map205), and budding uninhibited by benzimidazoles 1 (BUB1). Of these three proteins, sequences targeting Plk1 from Map205 and BUB1 have not previously been explored for structure-activity relationships. Our results show that analogs of all three proteins have modest binding activity with Plk1, confirming that Map205 and BUB1 are a new source of peptide ligands. Further development of these sequences could lead to high-affinity peptidomimetic ligands that could selectively induce mitotic arrest in cancer cells.
Bacterial Load Consistency Among Three Independent Water Distribution Systems
Authors: Patel Pooja , Phan Tina , Phillips Shelby , Dixon Erin , Cole Jennifer , Aruna Jeneba , Kyeremeh Lilian , Newsome Jada , Polak Alicia , Silva Eileena , Dominguez Jazmine , Martinez Alexis , Mwangi Sheila , Gonzalez Kimberly A
Published: September 2023

Clean drinking water is an essential component to maintaining public health. Methods used to purify drinking water include the addition of disinfectants, chemical methods of control, such as ozone or ultraviolet radiation, and physical methods of control, such as filtration. Disinfectants and filtration are the most widely used methods to ensure high-quality drinking water. However these methods do not sterilize the water, and there are still concerns as to whether or not some methods are better than others at reducing bacterial loads. This study tested water from traditional drinking fountains, Poland Springs® water cooler dispensers, and from Halsey-Taylor Filtered Single HAC Coolers with Hydroboost® Bottle Fillers. Water samples were collected from each source types on various days, plated onto Nutrient agar, and analyzed to count CFUs/mL for each source. We found that there is no statistical difference in the mean bacterial CFUs/mL among the three water sources tested. We conclude that among samples tested, no one water source is superior to the others in terms of bacterial load. The continued application of studies like this one to available water sources may inform consumers on whether certain water sources have healthier bacterial compositions than others. Should differences exist, these studies could inform consumers on how to better attain high-quality drinking water.
Purification of Water by Aloe
Authors: Sharma Parima , Grilly Devon
Published: September 2023

Phosphate, copper, iron, and nitrate are common contaminants found in water and can cause severe illnesses. These pollutants arise from the use of fertilizers to increase crop production. Obtaining adequate water purification is a continuing and growing problem, especially in Africa. The aloe vera gel from the aloe vera cactus, which is indigenous to Africa, may be used to purify water. The aloe vera gel reduced copper, iron, and phosphate concentrations by 100%, 93%, and 40%, respectively. However, the aloe vera gel was not effective for removing nitrate. The interaction between the aloe vera gel and the pollutants is important because it can provide a simpler way to purify water with natural material that is abundant in African countries.
The Relationship Between Close-Range Shooting Distance and Nitrite Patterns on Cotton and Polyester Clothing
Authors: Francis Cydney J C , Scott Jason
Published: September 2023

At a crime scene, the presence and pattern of gunshot residue can help forensic scientists piece together the events that occurred. To assist this, we determined the relationship between shooting distance and nitrite residue patterns left on fabric targets. Using the Modified Griess Test, we also investigated whether fabric type plays a role in gunshot residue (GSR) amounts. Cotton and polyester targets were shot from five different distances, and the targets were processed using the Modified Griess Test to measure the nitrite components of the GSR particles. An image processing program called ImageJ was used to approximate the total area of the residue. Results show that from 0 cm to 25 cm away, there was a rapid increase in GSR, but beyond 25 cm, there was a decrease in GSR, which is consistent with previous studies. Also, fabric type played a significant role in GSR patterns, with polyester fabrics holding more GSR on average than cotton at 25 cm, but less than cotton at 0 cm. The results of this study can potentially provide new and innovative ways to determine shooting distances and GSR patterns on different fabric types.
The Impact of Antibiotic Exposure and Concentration on Resistance in Bacteria
Authors: Abdel-Azim Ahmad G , Abdel-Azim Gamal A
Published: September 2023

How many generations are needed for bacteria to gain antibiotic resistance and to what extent does antibiotic concentration make a difference? To address these questions, pure Escherichia coli was cultured on nutrient agar in the presence of low, medium, and high concentrations of amoxicillin. Surviving bacteria were repeatedly cultured for four consecutive generations, and the sensitivity of bacteria was measured within each generation. We measured antibiotic sensitivity by evaluating the diameter of the inhibition zone around antibiotic-saturated discs of all three amoxicillin concentrations. Although exposing bacteria to extremely heavy antibiotic concentrations resulted in greater inhibition zones around antibiotic-saturated discs, there were no major differences in sensitivity relative to the much lower concentrations studied. We also found that bacteria gained significant resistance upon first exposure to the antibiotic. In fact, the reduction in average inhibition zones was much greater in early generations than in late generations. We conclude that E. coli can gain major resistance upon surviving early exposure to amoxicillin, which suggests that antibiotic courses of medication should be prescribed to completely clear the body of bacterial infection upon first antibiotic exposure.
Bacteroides thetaiotaomicron Growth Numbers Are Unchanged in the Presence of Yogurt
Authors: Phan Tina , Patel Pooja , Wallace Stephanie , OKeefe Lauren , Arseneault Victoria , Gilligan Liam , Panneton Riley , Mungai Kathleen , St Louis Katelyn , Pokuaa Yaa Konama , Gonzalez Kimberly A
Published: September 2023

The microbiome is composed of microorganisms that prime the human immune system for proper functioning and aid in energy harvest and biomolecule production. Disruptions to the microbiome have been linked to the development of certain diseases such as diabetes and obesity. Recent phylogenetic analysis has shown that obese patients have an imbalance in the two major phyla, the Firmicutes and the Bacteroidetes that compose the gut microbiome. The obese gut has higher levels of Firmicute bacteria when compared to Bacteroidetes, which have reduced numbers. This is important because many probiotic foods and supplements are produced using bacteria that fall into the Firmicute phylum. This study explored whether or not Fage plain total 0% Greek yogurt, which contains live and active bacterial cultures belonging to the Firmicute phylum, could decrease the numbers of Bacteroides thetaiotaomicron, an organism found in the human gut that belongs to the Bacteroidetes phylum. B. thetaiotaomicron was grown in the presence of Fage plain total 0% Greek yogurt containing live and active cultures, and with re-pasteurized Fage plain total 0% Greek yogurt. ANOVA analysis indicated no statistically significant reduction in the numbers of B. thetaiotaomicron when grown in either yogurt condition. This study can be used to guide people in dietary measures meant to keep beneficial Bacteroidetes in the gut.
The Tendency of Teenagers to be Conformists and Follow the Crowd
Authors: Pereda-Juarez Alejandra Georgina , Ayerdi Sofia , Cano-Ruiz Maria Elena
Published: September 2023

This research evaluates whether teenagers tend to keep their own opinions or be conformists and follow the opinion of the majority in a group. Group influence has been researched since the 1950s and the main findings agree that individuals will follow others in order to be accepted in a group. The degree of conformity behavior depends on the ambiguity of the situation. We hypothesized that teenagers would most likely adhere to group opinion and answer what the majority answered, even if they know that it was not the right answer, in order to be part of the group. We also believed that the degree of conformity would be high regardless of gender, but lower for less difficult tests. To investigate the degree to which teenagers in today's society surrender their own ideas and adopt the opinions of the group, we subjected a group of teenagers to the Solomon Asch visual line test with an additional math test experiment. These tests were done with the help of actors known as confederates that were asked to say the wrong answer out loud before the participant gave their answer. A total of 32 participants between 16-22 years took part in the line and math tests. The results were not as expected and showed no conformity behavior. Additionally, conformity was not correlated to gender or type of test administered (visual line vs math). Contrary to our hypothesis, teenagers did not show a conformity behavior, since only 9% of all individuals showed full conformity behavior.
The Effect of Radiant Energy on Radish Seed Germination
Authors: Simon Ethan , Bitan Aria , Helfgott Lauren
Published: September 2023

As mankind becomes increasingly dependent on technology, scientists are discovering through experimentation the influence of technology over the natural world. The following study was conducted in order to determine if exposure to microwave radiant energy influences the process of radish seed germination. The results show that energy emitted from microwaves influences radish seed germination. Radish seeds exposed for four minutes in the microwave experienced almost 150% greater seed germination over the course of six days compared to a control group and a group of radish seeds microwaved for one and one-half minutes. These data demonstrate one example of how the natural world reacts to radiant energy emitted by man-made objects.
The Effects of Antibiotics on Nutrient Digestion
Authors: Murea Eva , LaLonde Brian
Published: September 2023

Oral antibiotics are essential for the treatment of bacterial infections. A disadvantage of antibiotic therapy is gastrointestinal side effects caused in part by interfering with normal bacterial colonization of the gastrointestinal tract. However, other mechanisms could also be involved. We hypothesized that antibiotics might interfere with nutrient digestion. To test this hypothesis, we employed four tests: the biuret test (for protein digestion), the Lugol’s iodine test (for polysaccharide digestion), the Benedict’s test (for disaccharide digestion), and the litmus test (for lipid digestion). The in vitro effects of three different antibiotics (penicillin, tetracycline, and erythromycin) were assessed semi-quantitatively using these tests. We found that the antibiotics inhibited protein, polysaccharide, and disaccharide digestion, but not lipid digestion. Of the three antibiotics, erythromycin had the highest inhibitory effect. Interference with nutrient digestion could underlie, at least in part, the gastrointestinal side effects seen with antibiotics.
The Effect of Sunglass Price on Ocular Exposure to Ultraviolet Radiation
Authors: Larson Elizabeth M , Wehr Jeffrey R
Published: September 2023

Exposure to ultraviolet waves has been linked to skin cancer, sunburns, and ocular diseases, such as cataracts, macular degeneration, and pterygium. While sunglasses are readily encouraged, many do not wear sunglasses, or do not check the protection offered prior to purchase. One possible reason behind this is people consider price to be an indicator of the sunglass’ quality. The purpose of this experiment was to test if the cost of sunglasses correlated with the amount of ocular protection from ultraviolet radiation provided. An ultraviolet omitting lamp (300 nm), natural sunlight, 20 sunglasses, and an illuminance probe were used to test this theory. No sunglasses and experimental groups of sunglasses (≤$10 or >$10) were tested in front of both light sources. Data was taken directly in front of a light source, at 45 degrees to the light source, and at 315 degrees to the light source, in order to test light passage from different angles. There was no significant difference between the protection offered from ≤$10 and >$10 sunglasses. The results of this research can be useful in occupational work. Although employers are not required to pay for an employee’s sunglasses, a low-income employee can purchase less expensive sunglasses for their occupation, while still safely protecting their eyes.
Assaying the Formation of Beneficial Biofilms by Lactic Acid Bacteria and the Effect of Ayurvedic Plant Extracts on Their Enhancement
Authors: Rajpal Hemangi , Joykutty Leya , Golden Charles
Published: September 2023

Antibiotic resistance is increasingly becoming more dangerous and harmful. This study aimed to obtain the optimal non-antibiotic, natural method to suppress the growth of pathogenic bacteria within the body. The two-fold purpose of this project was to determine which combination of bacteria would result in the most biofilm formation and then to assess the lowest, median, and highest biofilm formation combinations to see the effect of ayurvedic plant extracts on the biofilm. S. thermophilus, L. lactis, and L. mesenteroides subsp. mesenteroides alone and L. lactis, L. mesenteroides subsp. mesenteroides plus gooseberry extract resulted in the most biofilm formation. The results show that the addition of a plant extract can affect the biofilm growth of a bacteria combination. The applications of this study can be used to design probiotic supplements with added beneficial plant extracts.
Disk Diffusion Tests Show Ginger to be Ineffective as an Antibacterial Agent
Authors: Patel Kruti , Mungai Kathleen , Pokuaa Yaa Konama , St Louis Katelyn , Patel Jahnvi , Santos Keroline , Mansour Kathryn , A Gonzalez Kimberly
Published: September 2023

Before the discovery of antibiotics, alternative medicines were used to treat infectious diseases. Such treatments included ginger, Zingiber officinale, yet investigation into ginger’s effectiveness has produced mixed results. Some studies have shown ginger to be an effective against Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, and Bacillus subtilis, while other studies have shown it is ineffective. This study continues the exploration of ginger as an antibacterial agent. Ginger powder and ginger root extract were tested to see if inhibition of growth of E. coli, S. aureus, and B. subtilis would occur. Various preparations and concentrations of ginger were tested by disk diffusion tests. Our results revealed that neither ginger preparation had an observable antibacterial effect on growth of E. coli, S. aureus, and B. subtilis at any of the tested concentrations. This is important because many have believed that ginger is an effective antibacterial agent, but according to this study, this does not appear to be the case. These results can guide people to seek treatment with appropriate antibiotics if they have an infection due to E. coli, S. aureus, and/or B. subtilis, as ginger does not appear to inhibit the growth of these organisms. Future studies need to be done to validate these results with other tests, and determine if ginger may enhance the effectiveness of antibiotics.
Effects of Paan Extracts on Periodontal Ligament and Osteosarcoma Cells
Authors: Venkatachalam Seetha , Venkatachalam KV
Published: September 2023

Oral cancer is a subset of head and neck cancer. There are various types of oral cancers, including cancer of the periodontal ligament (PDL) and osteosarcoma (OS) of jawbones. In South Asian countries, the major cause of oral cancer is reported to be chewing paan, or betel leaf daubed with slaked lime paste and areca nut. To investigate how paan may contribute to the onset of cancer, we evaluated how treating cells with areca nut extract, betel leaf extract, or lime (better known as calcium hydroxide) affected cell proliferation and cell death. Two oral cell lines were treated with solutions of areca nut, young betel leaf, old betel leaf, and lime, either individually or in combination, and we evaluated cell survival and cell growth. While treatment with old betal leaf alone caused marginal slowing of cell growth of both PDL and OS cell lines (12 ± 4% and 10 ± 10%, respectively), effects of young betal leaf and lime on cell growth were minor. Treatment with areca nut caused no significant change in PDL (10 ± 10%), but an increase in cell number for OS (37 ± 19%). Extract combinations of either young or old betal leaf with areca nut and lime resulted in increased cell proliferation of PDL and OS. These initial results indicate that the enhancement of cell growth by areca nut can overcome potential growth inhibition by betal leaf, suggesting that areca nut may promote cell growth. These data warrant further investigation of the effect of areca nut exposure on the onset of oral cancer in humans.
Correlations between Gray-White Matter Contrast in Prefrontal Lobe Regions and Cognitive Set-Shifting in Healthy Adults
Authors: Kim Joehyun , Thesen Thomas
Published: September 2023

Humans have a unique capacity for higher-order cognition such as planning and multitasking. These abilities are collectively referred to as “executive functions.” This study investigates cognitive set-shifting, a type of executive function that involves shifting from one task to another. Advances in neuroimaging have allowed for the structural integrity of specific frontal lobe

subregions to be probed with greater resolution. One measure of brain structural integrity is the intensity contrast between cortical gray and white matter (GWC), with greater contrast indicating better development. This study tested whether GWC in 8 subregions of the Prefrontal Cortex (PFC) was associated with set-shifting abilities in 61 healthy controls. Set-shifting abilities

were measured using two neuropsychology tests: Trail Making Test B (TMT-B) and Wisconsin Card Sorting Test-Perseverative Errors (WCST-PE), with a third test, the Boston Naming Test (BNT), used to determine the discriminant validity of set-shifting findings. Cognitive set-shifting was significantly correlated with GWC in the left ventrolateral PFC (Broca’s area), the left and right middle frontal gyri (dorsolateral PFC), and the left and right superior frontal gyri. These findings indicate that

successful set-shifting relies on the structural integrity of ventrolateral and dorsolateral PFC but not the basal orbitofrontal regions.
Talinum paniculatum root exhibits synergistic antimicrobial activity with Tetracycline, Erythromycin, and Streptomycin against S. aureus but has no observed effect on antibiotic efficacy against E. coli
Authors: Patel Jahnvi , Santos Keroline , Mungai Kathleen , Arseneault Veronica , Pokuaa Yaa Konama , St Louis Katelyn , Patel Kruti , Gilligan Liam , Mansour Kathryn , Patel Pooja , Gonzalez Kimberly
Published: September 2023

Bacteria are quickly becoming resistant to antibiotics, and as such, alternative medicines are being explored as treatments for infectious diseases. Plant extracts such as Panax ginseng (ginseng) have shown promise in increasing the effectiveness of current therapeutic agents; however, the high cost of ginseng makes it less attainable than other plant species. A comparable plant, Talinum paniculatum, has been shown to suppress the growth of Staphylococcus aureus and Serratia marcescens on its own, yet studies are lacking in testing its effectiveness alongside antibiotic treatment. This study aimed to test the effects of T. paniculatum in combination with Tetracycline, Erythromycin, and Streptomycin against S. aureus and E. coli. The results of the disk diffusion tests indicated that T. paniculatum helped increase the efficacy of the antibiotics against S. aureus, but had no noticeable effect on E. coli when tested with the same antibiotics. This is important because T. paniculatum is more cost accessible than ginseng, therefore, it can be more easily acquired and used in combination with antibiotic therapies for treating S. aureus infections. Future studies will involve isolating and testing for specific bioactive components of T. paniculatum.