bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Range-wide conservation assessment and analysis of land use impact on Cambarus spicatus (Broad River Spiny Crayfish)
Authors: Aulick Riley W
Published: May 2022

The Broad River Spiny crayfish, Cambarus spicatus, is a rare species found in disjunct drainages in the Broad River watershed in North Carolina and South Carolina. In recent years, land around streams with apparently suitable habitat has been disturbed by urban and agricultural development. In the summers of 2017 and 2018, the West Liberty University Crayfish Conservation Laboratory (WLUCCL) surveyed 147 sites in the following watersheds in South Carolina: Broad, Catawba, Enoree, Pacolet, Saluda, and Tyger. ArcMap and the National Land Cover Database 2011 were utilized to obtain land use types from three hundred diameter buffer zones centered on each of the sites sampled. Of 147 sites, C. spicatus was present at five and absent at 142. A Zero-inflated negative binomial regression (ZINB) was the first statistical analysis chosen because of a large amount of negative data in the dataset. Secondly, a nonmetric multidimensional scale (NMDS) model was created to better observe presence and absence relationships C. spicatus had with each land cover type. ZINB results were insignificant and showed that land use alone did not predict the presence or absence of a rare crayfish. The NMDS model showed that the presence of C. spicatus was associated with three major groups of land cover types. At most sites where C. spicatus was present, “Forest” land cover type was present within the buffer zone. However, a large portion of captures occurred in the land cover types, “Crop” and “Pasture”. Future research, including a life history study, is needed to understand more about C. spicatus and what habitat and environmental conditions the species needs to thrive.
Conservation and Distribution of Creaserinus fodiens (Digger Crayfish) in Pennsylvania.
Authors: Khan Tanya N.
Published: May 2022

Because crayfishes are the 4th most imperiled group of aquatic or terrestrial organisms in North America, agency efforts to assess the status of the fauna have increased in recent decades. Historically these assessments have focused on stream-dwelling species while primary burrowing crayfishes have been overlooked. Pennsylvania has initiated numerous surveys to determine modern distributions and conservation status of its crayfish fauna and in 2014 began a primary burrowing crayfish survey. These efforts led to the first documented record of Creaserinus fodiens (the Digger Crayfish) in the state. In 2017 a dedicated effort to determine the distribution and conservation status of C. fodiens commenced in Erie and Crawford counties. Initially, visual surveys were conducted for suitable habitat (roadside ditch, ephemeral pool, wetland, etc.) and/or burrows with chimneys, with the goal of collecting presence/absence data. Sites with suitable habitat, burrows, or chimneys were subsequently sampled for crayfishes. If water depth was <0.25 m collections were made via dipnet and if water depth was ≥0.25 m the site was trapped for 3 months. Each site was analyzed for percentage of land use type using the National Land Cover Database with a 200 m diameter buffer. These data were modeled using logistic regression to elucidate habitat preferences of C. fodiens. NatureServe’s ranking system was used to designate conservation status in the state of Pennsylvania. Two populations of C. fodiens have been discovered to date with additional sampling to take place in 2019.
The effect of caffeine concentrations on the learning and memory retention of gold fish.
Authors: McDonough Hailey Anne
Published: May 2022

The objective of this study was to test and observe how different concentrations caffeine effect the memory & learning abilities of a goldfish.Caffeine amounts (Group 1- 0g, Group 2- 0.05 g., Group 3- 0.12 g, and Group 4- 0.20 g.) were only administered during testing sessions in 7.5 L tanks. Caffeine groups were held for 3 minutes to ensure absorption. Plastic mesh canvas maze was used to observe and test the learning and memory skills of the fish. All groups were given 6 minutes to complete the maze. The maze was a reward based system, with food at the end. The memory of goldfish was measured by the time/rate at which these fish go through the maze, along with observational data. All groups showed an overall decline trend in times, indicating learning and memory retention occurring. The results prove that groups exposed to caffeine learned sooner than the control group. Group 3 had the fastest average time to complete the maze, and consistently had more fish that went through the hole in compared to other groups. Looking at a previously done study, caffeine concentrations in group 3 are highly effective in promoting memory retention & learning. Due to deaths in that occurred throughout and a small sample size, this study should be replicated with a larger sample size.
Osteological analysis of 3D printed skeletal remains.
Authors: Starcher Krystal Denise , Henson Kristy
Published: May 2022

Analysis of skeletal remains allows researchers to learn about an individual, their way of life, and possible cause of death. After remains are repatriated or cremated we are limited in our ability to learn about that individual. Researchers now are digitizing skeletal remains allowing for more research opportunities once the skeleton is no longer available. Medical CT scanners capture internal and external morphology within 0.01mm accuracy. The purpose of this study was to reanalyze and reconstruct a young skeleton conserved via CT scanner. The CT data was extracted and converted into a 3D file using InVesalius, then edited in 3DBuilder. Editing consisted of removing background noise and the CT bed. Bones were then 3D printed on a ZPrinter 310 Plus composite 3D printer for analysis. Available skull bone fragments were reconstructed to assist with the skeletal analysis. Standard osteometric and anthroposcopic techniques were used on the remains. Preliminary results suggest the skeleton is very young based on formation of deciduous and adult teeth. Sex of the individual will be determined using mandibular shape as the individual was young and the pelvis is not present. Limited axial skeletal fragments and one appendicular skeletal fragment will make the osteological analysis very difficult.
Designing a micro-fluidic chamber for in vivo imaging of larval zebrafish.
Authors: Orell Jesse Reed , Parnell Dakota , Walters James William
Published: May 2022

Zebrafish (Danio rerio) is a unique model organism for whole animal studies of metabolic disease. The optically transparent larval zebrafish allows for direct cell-level observation of physiological processes within living animals. Previous long-term methods for imaging zebrafish have been limited to embryogenesis and early larval stages. This project is to develop a novel microfluidic mounting technique for zebrafish larvae that extends survival and observation times. We used the computer software Solidworks to design a microfluidic slide. The ideal slide would have channels which allow media exchange, nourishment, drug delivery, and waste removal. These elements have been included in the design. We have tested one prototype and found the the Dolomite 3D printer made the larval bed too large. Subsequent prototypes attempt to fix the problems of plastic seepage and continuity of the channnels of the larval chamber as it is being printed. Supported by NIH Grant P20GM103434 to the West Virginia IDeA Network for Biomedical Research Excellence
Whitebark Pine Extracts Augments Immune Responses that Diminish Bacterial Infection
Authors: Jacobs MacKenzie Lynn
Published: May 2022

Francisella tularensis is a highly infectious bacterium that causes tularemia. Currently, there are no legal treatments in the United States.  Because of the highly infectious nature of F. tularensis, this organism can be used in bioterrorism. Therefore, to counteract this potential threat, development and discovery of novel treatments is highly desired.  During human infection, F. tularensis replicates in phagocytic cells of the immune system such as monocytes and macrophages.  Through a high throughput screen, we previously identified that Whitebark Pine extract (Pinus albicaulis) inhibited replication F. tularensis within monocytes.  Bio-assay guided fractionation was used to isolate the compounds responsible for the aforementioned activity.  Here, Galleria mellonella larvae were infected with F. tularensis LVS (an attenuated type B strain) and were treated with fractions of the Whitebark Pine extract.  Infected larvae treated with one such fraction (referred to as Pa-9) exhibited significant survival compared to the mock-treated insects.  Similar results were observed in chicken embryos infected with F. tularensis LVS that had been treated with Pa-9 suggesting that this fraction contained the active compound.  To determine whether Whitebark Pine Extracts were directly antibacterial, an antibiotic disk-diffusion assay was used. None of the fractions tested inhibited the growth of bacteria outside the context of infection, indicating that this extract does not contain traditional antibiotic compounds.  The further separation of Pa-9 and identification of the active compound is ongoing.
HAOCHEN BAI, The Linsly School, Wheeling, WV, 26003. Evaluation of allelopathic effects of suspensions of black walnut (Juglans nigra), Japanese knotweed (Fallopia japonica), and slender speedwell (Veronica filiformis) on seedlings of five species of garden plants (carrot, dandelion, lettuce, collard green and kale).
Authors: BAI Haochen Harry
Published: May 2022

Plants use different strategies to compete with each other including the allelopathic effect, which helps one plant gain advantage over others by chemically inhibiting their growth. While allelopathic effects of Black Walnut are well-known, the purpose of this study is to also evaluate possible allelopathic effects of two common invasive species, Japanese knotweed and slender speedwell. To determine whether their foliage has allelopathic effects, filtered homogenates of dried leaves of black walnut, Japanese knotweed and slender speedwell were prepared and used as the water source in germination experiments. Seeds of five common garden plants (carrot, dandelion, lettuce, collard green, and kale) were placed in standard germination chambers (layers of paper towels in plastic petri dishes) and measured for germination rate and shoot and root elongation at regular intervals. Black walnut homogenate significantly reduced shoot and root growth (t-tests) of all five species of garden seeds. Japanese knotweed and slender speedwell homogenates did not show a negative effect on any of the garden seeds. In fact, these homogenates significantly enhanced shoot growth (t-tests) when compared to the distilled water control. Thus, the experiment supports the hypothesis that Japanese knotweed and slender speedwell foliage do not contain allelopathic chemicals that inhibit growth of other plant’s seedlings. It is uncertain if the homogenates provided growth-enhancing nutrients not available in the distilled water. The experiment confirms previously published research that determined the allelopathic effects of black walnut extracts. Recent research shows juglone, the growth-inhibiting compound involved, inhibits RNA polyermase II and genetic transcription.
YUNHAN LEI, The Linsly School, Wheeling, WV, 26003. Pre-germination inoculation with 11 species of endomycorrhizal fungi slightly improves early growth of lettuce (Lactuca sativa) seeds but not that of radish (Raphanus raphanistrum) or beans (Phaseolus vulgaris).
Authors: Lei Yunhan Eve
Published: May 2022

Mycorrhizal associations of fungi with established and mature plant roots are well-known to benefit the plant. Mycorrhizal fungi, by penetrating into plant’s root cells and increasing their surface area, improve a plant’s absorption of water and mineral nutrients. In return, the fungi absorb carbohydrates from the plant. Less well known are the effects mycorrhizal fungi have on germination and early root growth. Tiny orchid seeds contain low quantities of nutrients and need early contact with mycorrhizal fungi for germination success. This study asks whether inoculation of lettuce, radish and bean seeds improves seed germination or seedling growth, and whether any effect is seed size dependent. Ten groups of seeds of lettuce, radish and beans were treated with a powder consisting of 11 different species of endomycorrizal fungi while ten seeds for each species served as controls. Seeds were placed in plastic petri dishes lined with paper toweling and provided equal amounts of distilled water. All six groups had 100% germination rates, except for 90% germination in the mycorrhizal fungi radish group.  In comparing mycorrhizal fungi treatment groups to the control, average root length in lettuce increased by 12% (p=0.15, t-test), but only by 8% (p=0.71, t-test) in radish and 5% (p=0.91, t-test) in beans. Only the effect on lettuce seeds approached statistical significance. A larger trial with more seeds growing longer might yield significant results. Since mycorrhizal fungi treated seeds absorbed water faster and left drier paper toweling, seed coat proteins may be triggered to absorb water faster, aiding germination.
Francisella tularensis expressing TC3D Leader Peptide and Promotor from tdtomato Enhances Fluorescence
Authors: Haggerty Kristen , Cantlay Stuart , Horzempa Joseph
Published: May 2022

Francisella tularensis is a gram-negative, intracellular pathogen capable of causing infection at a low dose of <10 CFU. For this reason, this bacterium has been classified as a Category A Bioterrorism Agent by the Center for Disease Control (CDC). Fluorescence microscopy is a valuable tool that investigators can utilize to study the many interactions between F. tularensis and its host cells.  However, in our hands, F. tularensis is only weakly fluorescent when expressing certain fluorescent proteins such as emGFP and BFP using previously described molecular tools.  On the other hand, our laboratory previously described robust expression of tdTomato while under the control of the Francisella glucose-repressible promoter (FGRp; this plasmid construct was referred to as pTC3D).  However, F. tularensis bacteria were unable to produce robust expression of tdTomato or other fluorescent proteins, such as emGFP, while these genes were under the control of the groE promoter (which is much more robust).  Therefore, we analyzed the DNA upstream of tdtomato in pTC3D.  Here, we identified an in-frame N-terminal leader peptide that is likely translated with tdTomato potentially producing a stable fusion.  The previously identified FGRp sequence alone could not produce robust expression of fluorescent proteins.  Moreover, a frame-shift disrupting the coding sequence of the leader peptide resulted in poor fluorescent protein expression.  Inclusion of the leader peptide in-frame controlling expression of Emerald GFP, emGFP, under the control of the FGRp, however, resulted in robust green fluorescence suggesting that this domain can be used to stabilize fluorescent proteins in F. tularensis.  Application of this new biotechnology will expand our ability to investigate F. tularensis through fluorescence microscopy.
Developing Software to Automate the Parameter Calibration of a Cancer Model
Authors: Crutchley Brian , Wang Qing
Published: May 2022

In order to enhance predictive power of mathematical models to represent real world scenarios, one often needs to calibrate the model parameters to experimental data. When dealing with an ODE model, it can be difficult to find the optimal set of parameters that generates a curve fitting real world data. To make this process easier, we developed software to help automate the search for the best fitting set of parameters. To determine fitness, we compared the curves generated with a given set of parameters to the experimental data points and ranked each set of parameters by the percentage difference to the real-world data. The result was software that could sort through thousands of solutions and determine the best fitting curves, allowing easier parameter calibration of the model used. The project was supported by NIH Grant P20GM103434 to the West Virginia IDeA Network for Biomedical Research Excellence and the Research Challenge Fund through a Summer Undergraduate Research Experience Grant from the West Virginia Higher Education Policy Commission Division of Science and Research.
Findings from the first two years of the First2 Network.
Authors: Heatherly Sue Ann , Starcovic Sarah , Rutherford Rebecca , Harvey Erica , Williamson Kathryn , Burt-Kinderman Joanna , Riley Sarah , Howley Caitlin
Published: May 2022

Nationally, more than half of all college students who declare a major in STEM fields drop out or change their majors in the first two years of post-secondary education.  Among first-generation college students in West Virginia this number may approach 70%.    The First2 STEM Success Network, an NSF INCLUDES Alliance, is a cross-sector effort aimed at improving the college enrollment rate and success of undergraduate STEM students, with emphasis on rural first-generation students in West Virginia. At the core of our shared vision is the inclusion of students themselves as co-creators of the solutions.      First2 is an outgrowth of a two-year pilot project funded by the National Science Foundation in 2016. During the pilot, we began to create and test interventions that address the underlying reasons for attrition in STEM majors, and to develop a preliminary research program to better understand rural first-generation STEM students, a population for which there is scant existing research.    We engaged 36 rural first-generation students in some combination of early STEM research experiences, an online discovery-based "principles of research and development" college seminar, a “hometown ambassador” program, and leadership training. We also developed and administered an online survey to an additional 101 first generation students attending West Virginia University and Fairmont State University.    This presentation describes the research and evaluation findings from the pilot project and implications for the Network moving forward.    The First2 Network Design and Development Pilot Project was supported by National Science Foundation INCLUDES Award No. 1649323.
Towards an analytical description of propane-air premixed combustion in gaseous and gaseous-dusty industrial applications
Authors: Kodakoglu Furkan , Akkerman V'yacheslav
Published: May 2022

Emerging usage of propane as an alternative fuel for transportation, cooking, heating and manufacturing, will unavoidably lead to accidental leakage and accumulation of propane occurring in industries dealing with flammable gases and explosive dust. An example is the coalmining industry, which historically has one of the highest fatality and injury rates among the employees. For this reason, here we extend a recent theory of a coalmine fire scenario, accounting for wall obstacles and switching from methane to propane.  The new formulation combines the theories of self-accelerating expanding flames, of finger flames and of ultrafast flame acceleration in obstructed conduits. Specifically, the mining configuration is imitated by two-dimensional and cylindrical passages of high aspect ratios, with comb-shaped arrays of obstacles attached to the walls. The passages have one extreme open such that a flame is ignited at a closed end and propagates to an exit. The key stages of the flame evolution such as the velocity of the flame front and the run-up distance are scrutinized for a variety of the flame and mining parameters. Starting with gaseous propane-air flames, the analysis is subsequently extended to gaseous-dusty ones. Specifically, the coal dust (combustible, i.e. facilitating the fire), inert dust (such as sand, moderating the process), and their combinations are considered, with the impact of the size and concentration of the dust particles quantified. Overall, the influence of obstacles on the fire scenario is substantial, with a stronger effect observed in the cylindrical geometry as compared to the two-dimensional passages.
ISCHEMIC STROKE INDUCTION BY GLUTAMATE EXCITOTOXICITY
Authors: Anthony Cristal , Anthony Charles B
Published: May 2022

One of the leading causes of epilepsy is cerebral ischemia, also known as ischemic stroke. The brain is particularly vulnerable to ischemia due to the high rate of oxidative metabolism, which requires a continuous supply of oxygen and glucose. By initiating an excitotoxic glutamate injury, it is hypothesized to induce ischemic epileptic discharges in the rat neural stem cells in-vitro. Using the cell-type specific miRNA biochemical marker of normal brain function, it is possible to identify the pathology of stroke specific miRNAs. Signaling pathways, such as the MAPK pathways, have demonstrated participation in the pathogenesis of ischemic stroke. By observing the dysregulation of the target gene hsa-miR-106b-5p due to the glutamate injury, the MAPK pathway will be analyzed by targeting the MAPKK protein markers. It is hypothesized that the upregulation of hsa-miR-106b-5p will affect the tightly regulated signaling network of the MAPKK activity in the event of a stroke.
NEUROPROTECTIVE EFFECTS OF CREATINE TREATMENT ON THE DIFFERENTIATION OF E14 RAT CORTISOL STEM CELLS AND EXPRESSION OF GABA-ERGIC NEURONS
Authors: Anthony Bruce , CASINGAL NICHOLAS
Published: May 2022

Along with the promotion of muscle growth and recovery, it has been observed that the supplement, Creatine, also contains neuroprotective properties that aid in the developmental process of neuronal cells by increasing developmental competency in early differentiation.  In clinical research, addiction treatments are beginning to introduce dietary supplements such as Creatine for patients in early recovery to improve recovery abstinence.  Research has shown that supplemental Creatine induces higher cerebral phosphocreatine levels which could help with improved neuron connectivity.  In order to examine the neuroprotective effects of Creatine, E14 rat cortical stem cells were differentiated and treated with different dosages of alcohol and creatine.  Alcohol was used as a negative control in order to compare the differentiation and expression of GABAergic neurons associated with alcohol exposure and neuronal protection from Creative.  We anticipate that Creatine acts as a neuroprotective agent in GABAergic neurons treated with alcohol.
Lyme disease and tick (Acari: Ixodidae) monitoring in Upshur County, WV
Authors: Benchoff Mason N , Samargo Lukas Z , Sal Melanie S , Bjorgo-Thorne Kim
Published: May 2022

Lyme disease is one of the most widespread vector-borne diseases in the Northern Hemisphere. In North America, it is mainly caused by the spirochete Borrelia burgdorferi. The main known transmission vector for B. burgdorferi is Ixodes scapularis, commonly referred to as the black legged tick. Through conducting this experiment, the presence and viability of Borrelia burgdorferi found within Ixodes scapularis and the prevalence of tick species found within West Virginia were examined.  We collected different species of ticks via drag method in various locations throughout Upshur County,West Virginia. These ticks were identified, had their DNA extracted and amplified via PCR, and were run through gel electrophoresis to detect presence of B. burgdorferi. Results showed that around 5% of ticks collected contained the bacterium B. burgdorferi and a handful of other ticks showed non-specific bands of unknown extraneous DNA. Future studies include looking into a new, invasive tick recently introduced to the area and its capability to carry B. burgdorferi, as well as acquiring Rickettsia DNA and using a positive control containing it, to examine if the unidentified region makers found in the gels coincide with that particular bacterium
Blood spatter impact accuracy on nonporous surfaces and how it affects criminal investigation.
Authors: Whitlatch Cassandra Danielle , Henson Kristy
Published: May 2022

CASSANDRA WHITLATCH, Dept of Natural Science, Fairmont State University, Fairmont, WV, 26554, and KRISTY HENSON, Dept of Natural Science, Fairmont State University, Fairmont, WV, 26554. Blood spatter impact accuracy on nonporous surfaces and how it affects criminal investigation.The purpose of this research was to test the validity of the Bathazard equation (sinθ = (W/L) on nonporous, passive, blood-spattered surfaces. The Bathazard equation was formulated and tested solely on porous surfaces. Nonporous and porous surfaces have different properties and react differently affecting the size and shape of the blood spatter. To test the validity of the Bathazard equation I tested passive drops of blood from average female and male fingertip heights at 90̊, 60̊, and 45̊ angles on porous and nonporous surfaces. Blood drop height and width were measured after immediate impact and again after an hour. An hour was selected because it is the average time from a crime being committed until it is investigated by police in West Virginia. Results show that the angle variation of the porous standards did not typically yield accurate impact angles when using the Bathazard equation. Nonporous surfaces did not yield accurate impact angles for any test using the Bathazard equation. The Bathazard equation is not a suitable formula to use when analyzing passive blood spatter on nonporous surfaces because it yields inaccurate results of blood evidence in criminal cases.
Why zombies crave brains: an exploration of two hypotheses.
Authors: Popovich Greg Edward
Published: May 2022

In recent years, the allure of zombie culture has found its way into innovative teaching of biology and medical courses. In the current example, zombies are used to facilitate understanding of applied nutritional biochemistry. Specifically, two competing hypotheses are explored to evaluate which poses the most plausible explanation as to why zombies purportedly crave human brains: 1) as a source of omega 3 fatty acids versus 2) as a source of endogenous opiates (endorphins).   The common drive for ingesting either compound stems from the assumption (as put forth in pop culture) that zombies are sentient and can feel themselves decompose, which is painful. Omega-3 fatty acids further rely on the following established premises: 1) the brain, by dry weight, is 60% lipid, most of which is essential fatty acids (EFAs); 2) the brain’s EFA content is mostly omega-3s, but is somewhat dependent on diet; 3) omega-3s exert anti-inflammatory and anti-nociceptive effects. The hypothesis that exogenous endorphins impart analgesia centers on their known binding to opiate receptors in the brain, assuming they can be absorbed at a sufficient dose to impart an effect. Evaluation of the potential effectiveness included quantitative and qualitative comparisons of digestion and absorption as well as effective dose.   Although these two tentative explanations are not mutually exclusive, EFA consumption would be more likely to alleviate pain in the reanimated. This is primarily due to the likely destruction of endorphins by the gastrointestinal tract given that they are polypeptidal hormones and would be rendered ineffective for analgesia.
The undergraduate research pipeline at West Virginia University
Authors: Richards-Babb Michelle
Published: May 2022

Studies have demonstrated that involving undergraduates in research increases the probability that they will be retained within their STEM majors and graduate on time. Providing opportunities for students to engage in research aligns with institutional goals of enhanced student recruitment, increased student diversity, improved persistence, and high-quality graduates. At our institution, individual efforts to promote research through NSF and state-funded summer undergraduate research experiences were initiated but suffered from a lack of cohesion across STEM disciplines and the institution. Establishment of a centralized Office of Undergraduate Research has (i) increased the number of students who take part in research; (ii) expanded the disciplines served; and (iii) diversified the students who engage in research (e.g., underrepresented persons, first-generation, and low income). In addition, we how have a four-year pipeline of opportunities that begin the summer before the freshmen year via the NSF-funded First2Network’s summer research immersion, continue into the academic-year through the Research Apprenticeship Program (RAP), into the summer via the state-funded Summer Undergraduate Research Experience (SURE), and culminate in disciplinary research coursework or research impactful to the community through the Honors Experiential and Community-Engaged Learning (EXCEL) program. Summary participation and tracking date will be presented on the efficacy of these research opportunities. In addition, best practices for engaging diverse undergraduates and faculty members in research will be discussed.
The effect of vaping on the development and craniofacial morphology of Xenopus laevis embryos.
Authors: Cutlip Camden
Published: May 2022

Vaping is a type of nicotine usage in which an artificial cigarette is used as the delivery system. Originally marketed as the healthier alternative to smoking cigarettes, vaping has led to an increase in the amount of pulmonary issues by users. Our objective for this research was to test whether the consumption of nicotine and flavor additives through vaping is as harmful to developing embryos as that obtained through smoking traditional cigarettes. For this research, we exposed developing Xenopus laevis embryos to nicotine from vaping solution with 3 differing propylene glycol: vegetable glycerin ratios (30:70, 50:50, 70:30) as well as smoke from a well-known cigarette brand, all of which contain 12 mg of nicotine. We exposed the embryos to the same amount of nicotine and byproducts that would be consumed by the average pregnant American woman who either vapes or smokes traditional cigarettes. Embryos were exposed from Stage 10 (yolk plug) to Stage 43 (freeswimming tadpole with most yolk consumed).  Tadpoles were sacrificed and mounted, and Image J was used to determine if there were any differences in craniofacial morphology between treatments.  Preliminary results are encouraging and indicate possible developmental effects of different VG: PG ratios.    This research was funded by a NASA Space Grant awarded to Camden Cutlip.
Francisella tularensis FTL_0580 N-Terminal Domain Enhances Fluorescence Protein Expression
Authors: Haggerty Kristen , Cantlay Stuart , Horzempa Joseph
Published: May 2022

Francisella tularensis is a gram-negative, intracellular pathogen capable of establishing a lethal infection at a dose of <10 CFU. Fluorescence microscopy is a vital tool used to study F. tularensis host-pathogen interactions. However, F. tularensis is only weakly fluorescent when expressing fluorescent proteins such as emGFP and BFP using previously described molecular tools. In contrast, our laboratory previously described robust expression of tdTomato while under the control of the Francisella glucose-repressible promoter (FGRp; plasmid construct pTC3D). However, F. tularensis bacteria were unable to produce substantial expression of tdTomato or other fluorescent proteins, such as emGFP, while genes encoding these proteins were under the control of the robust groE promoter (groEp). Therefore, we analyzed the DNA upstream of tdtomato in pTC3D and identified an in-frame N-terminal fusion of the first 36 codons of FTL_0580 (580N), followed by code for a three amino linker domain (PAT), and subsequently the start codon of tdTomato potentially producing a stable hybrid protein. The previously identified FGRp alone could not produce robust expression of fluorescent proteins. Moreover, a frame-shift disrupting the coding sequence of 580N resulted in poor fluorescent protein expression. Inclusion of 580N in-frame controlling expression of Emerald GFP, emGFP, under the control of FGRp or groEp, however, resulted in robust fluorescence. We hypothesize that 580N stabilizes the fluorescent protein to which it is fused within F. tularensis. Application of this new biotechnology will expand our ability to investigate F. tularensis through the use of fluorescence microscopy.
The antimicrobial activity of Serena repens (Saw Palmetto) extract against Burkholderia cepacia.
Authors: Nepali Umesh , Horzempa Dr.Joseph
Published: May 2022

UMESH NEPALI & JOSEPH HORZEMPA, Department of Mathematics and Natural Sciences, West Liberty University, West Liberty, WV, 26074.The antimicrobial activity of Serena repens (Saw Palmetto) extract against Burkholderia cepacia. Burkholderia cepacia is a gram-negative bacterium and opportunistic human pathogen that most often causes pneumonia in individuals with weak immunity or underlying lung diseases such as Cystic Fibrosis. B cepacia is naturally drug resistant to numerous antibiotics. Therefore, to potentially identify novel antibiotics that inhibit the growth of B. cepacia, we previously screened a library of nearly 4000 extracts of plants, marine life, and fungi from the National Center for Natural Products Research.  From this screen, Serena repens (Saw Palmetto) extract significantly inhibited the growth of B. cepacia. The purpose of this work is to validate the antimicrobial activity exhibited by Saw Palmetto extract, and to isolate and identify the compound(s) responsible for this activity.  Both disk diffusion and time-to-kill assays will be used to test the antibiotic properties of Saw Palmetto extract.  I have conducted pilot studies to optimize experimental conditions that will be used in these assays. Further, we will extract organic compounds from different parts of the Saw Palmetto plant. These extracts will be lyophilized, reconstituted, and then utilized in the bioassays to test antibiotic activity.  Subsequently, extracts with activity will be separated by chromatography. To identify the active compounds, pure molecules showing antibiotic activity will be subjected to NMR and Mass Spectrometry. (Supported by NIH Grant P20GM103434 to the West Virginia IDeA Network for Biomedical Research Excellence)
Assessment of water chemistry’s influence on carbon cycling and microbial respiration using standardized substrates in Upper Ohio River watersheds
Authors: Huff Emily , Wood James
Published: May 2022

Water chemistry influences the rate that carbon is processed in streams, but few studies have investigated the role of carbon quality on carbon processing rates. We investigated how carbon quality influences respiration rate and breakdown rate using standardized substrates composed of labile cellulose sponge and a recalcitrant red oak wood veneer. We found that respiration rates of labile substrates were 10 times higher than recalcitrant substrates, and breakdown rates were 6 times faster than recalcitrant substrates. We looked at streamwater nitrogen and phosphorous to see its correlation on both substrates. We found that nitrogen positively affected cellulose breakdown rates it was also found to positively affect both wood respiration and breakdown rates. Phosphorus positively affected both cellulose respiration and breakdown rates. Assessing water chemistry’s influence on microbial activity by quantifying respiration and microbial driven carbon cycling rates can provide insight into aquatic ecosystems function relevant to the management of freshwater resources. Developing a better understanding of water chemistry’s effects on microbial communities will provide needed insight into the management of both the structure and function of freshwater ecosystems.
Susceptibility of Neisseria gonorrhoeae to Resazomycins in Varying Oxygen Concentrations
Authors: Cunningham Kailee , Rice Justin , Schmitt Deanna M
Published: May 2022

Antibiotic resistance is a growing issue globally as many pathogenic bacterial species are becoming less susceptible to common antibiotic treatments. Antibiotic resistant pathogens are the cause of 23,000 deaths in the United States each year and increasing health care costs. It is imperative that new antibiotics be developed to combat this public health crisis. We recentlyidentified a novel family of resazurin-based compounds, resazomycins, to have antimicrobial activity in vitro against Neisseria gonorrhoeae, a human pathogen. Resazomycins are capable of killing N. gonorrhoeae in broth culture as well as within human endometrial cells, HEC-1-B. However, when different resazomycins were tested in a mouse model of gonorrhea, none of the compounds were able to completely clear the infection. The difference between in vitro and invivo antibacterial efficacy may be due to differences in oxygen concentration. Atmospheric oxygen levels are typically around 20% while the oxygen concentration of most mammalian tissues is around 3-5%. We hypothesize that the decreased oxygen concentration in vivo may affect the antimicrobial activity of resazomycins. To test this hypothesis, the susceptibility of different clinical isolates of N. gonorrhoeae to resazurin was measured under atmospheric (20%)and physiologic (2-3%) oxygen conditions. To date, certain strains of N. gonorrhoeae showed more growth following exposure to resazomycins under physiologic oxygen than atmospheric oxygen. This suggests N. gonorrhoeae is more resistant to resazomycins under low oxygen conditions. Further experimentation is needed to determine why certain N. gonorrhoeae strainsare showing less susceptibility to resazomycins under physiologic oxygen conditions.
Conservation Assessment of Cambarus dubius in Pennsylvania with Distribution Notes on Lacunicambarus thomai.
Authors: Allison Jr. Patrick F. , Lieb David A. , Loughman Zachary J. , Racine Holly L.
Published: May 2022

Burrowing crayfishes are poorly understood animals that face conservation and management issues due to a lack of distribution and ecological data. Within Pennsylvania, the burrowing crayfish Cambarus dubius has a limited distribution and its conservation status within the state is unranked. An assessment was conducted in southwestern Pennsylvania to assess the conservation status of C. dubius throughout its historic range. GIS-landscape data was used to analyze potential predictors of presence/absence. Six historic sites and 790 new sites were sampled for the presence of C. dubius.  Of the 796 sites sampled, C. dubius was collected from 61 sites. Active crayfish burrows were present at 137 additional sites; these are predicted to be those of C. dubius due to the structure of the burrows. Additional biological and ecological data on C. dubius are also provided. The global model produced from logistic regression analysis was unable to predict variables of presence/absence; suggestions for additional variables to better predict presence/absence of C. dubius are provided. Collections also yielded populations of Lacunicambarus thomai within the range of C. dubius and are the easternmost within Pennsylvania.
Isothermal measurements of a Langmuir monolayer of a non-polar fluorocarbon chain molecule
Authors: Li Mengyang , Sheetz Nicholas , Smith Clayton
Published: May 2022

Traditionally Langmuir monolayers and lipids bilayers (including cell membranes) on water interfaces are made of amphiphilic molecules with both polar hydrophilic and non-polar hydrophobic parts.  It has been discovered that non-polar fluorocarbon chain molecules without the polar hydrophilic part, F(CF2)20F, can also form Langmuir monolayers on water.  Here we report the surface pressure vs. area isotherm measurements of a F(CF2)20F film on water, which show the film’s maximum compression modulus (greatest resistance to lateral compression) at about 30 Å2/molecule, independent of the compression speed, like the Langmuir monolayers of long chain saturated fatty acids do.  The cross-section area of the fluorocarbon chain is 28.1 Å2 in 3-D crystalline F(CF2)20F.   Our measurements confirm the formation of a Langmuir monolayer by F(CF2)20F, a non-polar fluorocarbon chain molecule.  We observed a general trend that greater the lateral compression speed, lower the maximum compression modulus, lower the resistance to lateral compression. Nicholas Sheetz and Clayton Smith are grateful to financial support from the National Science Foundation through the SOARS Research Fellowship at Shepherd University.
Determining if Household Powders can Aid in Forensic Fingerprint Analysis
Authors: Way Megan , Henson Kristy
Published: May 2022

MEGAN WAY, Dept of Natural Science, Forensic Science Program, Fairmont State University, Fairmont, WV, 26554, and KRISTY HENSON, Dept of Natural Science, Forensic Science Program, Fairmont State University, Fairmont, WV 26554.  Determining if Household Powders can Aid in Forensic Fingerprint Analysis.This research work serves the purpose to test whether household powders like cornstarch, baking soda and cocoa powder work in lifting latent fingerprints. This would be helpful if for any reason normal fingerprint powder is not able to be used. While doing the research project the powders used were Sirchie black, white and pink fingerprint powders, cornstarch, baking soda and cocoa powder. The surfaces used were plates, aluminum cans and laminate. A male and female touched each surface and for the first part the prints were dusted immediately. After that, the surfaces were touched again, but this time the prints sat for one hour and lifted after that. Each print was lifted using SIRCH-LIFT tabs. The top film of the tape was not placed back on because it left bubbles in the print, therefore distorting the print. The results showed a lot with each powder. The black powder worked like it was supposed to. The white and pink powders did have some issues with clumping and not sticking to the print. The baking soda did not work at all for any surfaces. The cornstarch and cocoa powder went back and forth between working for each gender and surface. So, these results showed that some household powders would be helpful in the field if regular powders are not accessible.
The Recreation of Irish Peat Bog Environments to Recreate Biological Mummification
Authors: Bush Jordyn Elaine , Henson Kristy
Published: May 2022

JORDYN BUSH, Department of Natural Science, Forensic Science Department, Fairmont State University, Fairmont, West Virginia, 26554, and KRISTY HENSON, Department of Natural Science, Forensic Science Department, Fairmont State University, Fairmont, West Virginia, 26554.The Recreation of Irish Peat Bog Environments to Recreate Biological Mummification. Bog people were individuals subjected to human sacrifice starting around 8,000 BCE. After death these individuals were placed into bogs around northern Europe and remained there until the 17th - 19th centuries when the bogs were being destroyed for farmland. The bog people were naturally mummified by the peat bog environment dumbfounding scholars of that time. The objective of this study was to create a peat bog environment and recreate biological mummification. Three large fish tanks were placed in a refrigerator that maintained the bog temperature of -4° C. One tank was filled with dechlorinated water to serve as the control. Two tanks were used to recreate the bog environment. The bog tanks were filled with dechlorinated water, peat moss, sphagnum moss, decomposing leaves, algae, and Alphaproteobacteria. Hairless, fetal kittens were placed into each tank and monitored weekly. The control specimen became bloated and several layers of tissue dissolved. The specimens in the bog environments show noticeable skin shrinkage and darkening consistent with mummification. This research was made possible by NASA West Virginia Space Grant Consortium, Training Grant #NNX15AI01H.
Movement Ecology of the Big Sandy Crayfish (Cambarus callainus) Assessed via Radio Telemetry
Authors: Davis Destinee , Loughman Zachary
Published: May 2022

In 2018, a life history study was conducted for Cambarus callainus (Big Sandy Crayfish), a federally threatened species endemic to the coalfields of Kentucky, Virginia, and West Virginia. Most crayfish life history studies make broad assumptions regarding habitat preference and temporal patterns. Additionally, life history studies fail to account for diurnal movements based on species specific behavior. Previous surveys indicate C. callainus showing a preference towards large slab boulders in fast flowing water with little sedimentation. However, they can be found in areas with high anthropogenic disturbances such as mining, timber, and urbanization. In 2013, Zachary Loughman used radio telemetry to track Cambarus chasmodactylus, an ecological equivalent to C. callainus. Their method was effective and non-invasive—an essential proponent when dealing with federally protected organisms. Beginning May 2020, I will begin a radio telemetry movement and behavioral study in the Tug Fork and Upper Guyandotte river systems. A radio transmitter will be attached to the left chela of C. callainus which will be tracked over multiple tracking periods. The data collected will be used as a baseline to determine how anthropogenic disturbances could affect the movement and behavior of C. callainus. Furthermore, this study will fill knowledge gaps for C. callainussuch as its habitat interaction, diurnal habitat preferences, and movement.
Propagation of Nonequidiffusive Premixed Flames in Channels with Open Ends
Authors: Abidakun Olatunde
Published: May 2022

Combustion in micro-channels has numerous fundamental and practical applications, with oscillations and acceleration representing the two distinct modes of premixed flame propagation in “fully-open” channels (both ends of the channel are open). The type of propagation encountered is determined by such factors as the internal condition of the channel, the width of the channel, the thermal expansion ratio, the thermal-to-mass diffusivity ratio (defined as the Lewis number, Le), and their interplays. We have therefore investigated the impact of these factors, especially, the role of the Lewis number and its coupling to other parameters, on the dynamics and morphology of premixed flames in fully-open channels. We have computationally solved the set of reacting flow equations, including the balance of mass, momentum, energy and species, with fully-compressible fluid dynamics and Arrhenius chemical kinetics. Specifically, the Lewis numbers in the range  are considered. Other factors varied in the parametric study include the thermal expansion ratio ; the channel half-width , scaled by the flame thickness , in the range ; the blockage ratio , as well as the spacing between the neighboring obstacles  scaled by  such that  are considered. It is shown that the Lewis number provides both quantitative and qualitative effects on the flame dynamics. In some cases of the channels filled with obstacles, the flames show an oscillatory propagation about a steady value, while in other cases, sudden transition to acceleration after an initial period of oscillations is seen. Without obstacles ( ), the flames are only found to exhibit oscillatory motion through the channel. All flame propagation parameters, such as the oscillation frequency, amplitude, and the time of initial propagation before transition to acceleration occurs, are found to be affected by Lewis number and other factors.