bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Whole-Body Loss of NUCB2/Nesfatin-1 Alters Enteric Hormone Expression
Authors: Ramesh Naresh , Shufflebarger Hannah , Hatfield Logan 
Published: April 2024

Objectives: Post-prandial insulin secretion is predominantly regulated by four intestinal hormones: glucagon-like peptide 1 (GLP-1), glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP) [collectively called incretins], Cholecystokinin (CCK) and peptide YY (PYY). Nesfatin-1, an insulinotropic and anorexigenic secreted peptide encoded by nucleobindin-2 (NUCB2) was reported in the mouse hypothalamus. We have earlier reported that nesfatin-1 stimulates incretins and CCK expression and secretion while being a potent inhibitor of PYY expression, both in vitro and vivo. We further this observation in this abstract by testing the incretin, CCK, and PYY expression in a mouse model of global Nesfatin-1/NUCB2 knockout (NKO).

Methods: For the current study 6-8 weeks old male NKO mice and age-matched littermate C57BL/6J mice were used as controls (n=7). Total RNA extraction followed by Real-Time quantitative PCR (RT-qPCR) of small/large intestine samples was carried out. One-way ANOVA followed by Tukey’s multiple comparison test using GraphPad Prism software was used for data analysis. p<0.01 was considered statistically significant.

Results: We found that whole-body knockout of NUCB2/Nesfatin-1 downregulated large and small intestinal expression of incretins, CCK, and increased expression of PYY.

Conclusion: The current data extends our earlier observation in a mouse model lacking nesfatin-1. Lack of nesfatin-1 affects the healthy expression of incretins, CCK, and PYY in the intestine. These results highlight the importance of endogenous nesfatin-1 and its role in energy balance by modulating crucial enteroendocrine hormones known for their role in energy balance.

Source of Support: Dr. Unniappan's lab (University of Saskatchewan) and Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR).
Combinatorial effects of resazomycins and azithromycin against Neisseria gonorrhoeae
Authors: Young Emily , Scott Alexis , Blatt Sydney , Hall Mackenzie , Gibson Jordan , Beatty Emma , Woody Caroline , Schmitt Deanna M. 
Published: April 2024

Gonorrhea is a sexually transmitted disease caused by the bacterium Neisseria gonorrhoeae. The WHO estimates 87 million new gonococcal infections occur each year making it the second most common sexually transmitted bacterial infection. When left untreated, gonorrhea can cause pelvic inflammatory disease and infertility in women. Treatment is further complicated by the fact that N. gonorrhoeae has acquired resistance to all antibiotics approved for treatment including the gold standard ceftriaxone. One way to address the growing problem of antibiotic resistance is to administer drugs in combination in the hope the two are more effective together than alone. Resazomycins, a novel family of resazurin (Rz) based antibiotics, exhibit antimicrobial activity against N. gonorrhoeae and Francisella tularensis. Here, we used E-test assays to determine if there was a synergistic bactericidal effect between resazomycins and azithromycin, which is commonly used to treat gonorrhea. Multiple clinical isolates of N. gonorrhoeae were more sensitive to azithromycin in the presence of Rz. However, additional testing in a checkerboard assay revealed no synergistic effect between azithromycin and Rz or another resazomycin, resorufin pentyl ether (RPE). Upon further investigation, we determined the conflicting results between the E-test and checkerboard method were due to differences in bacterial load. When the E-test assays were repeated using a lower inoculum of N. gonorrhoeae, increased sensitivity to azithromycin was not observed in the presence of Rz. In the future, we plan to test resazomycins in combination with other antibiotics against N. gonorrhoeae, particularly extensively drug-resistant strains. (This research was made possible by NIH Grant P20GM103434 to the West Virginia IDeA Network for Biomedical Research Excellence and the NASA West Virginia Space Grant Consortium, Grant # 80NSSC20M0055)
Utilization of Double-Immunofluorescence Microscopy to determine the role of FTL_1199 in erythrocyte invasion by Francisella tularensis.
Authors: Delatore III Elio , Horzempa Joseph 
Published: April 2024

Francisella tularensis is an intracellular bacterium that is the causative agent of the zoonotic disease, tularemia. F. tularensis invades host erythrocytes during infection, a phenomenon that leads to increased colonization of ticks after a blood meal. To better understand the mechanism of erythrocyte invasion, an RNA-seq analysis was conducted to identify genes whose transcription was affected by the presence of erythrocytes. A putative transcriptional regulator, FTL_1199 was determined to be modulated in the presence of erythrocytes. We hypothesized that this gene may therefore play a role in erythrocyte invasion. Deletion of FTL_1199 resulted in a significant reduction in the invasion of rabbit erythrocytes, and complementation of FTL_1199 restored this strain’s ability to acquire the cytoplasmic space of erythrocytes. These findings were determined by a gentamicin protection assay to quantify erythrocyte invasion. To validate these findings, we conducted double-immunofluorescence microscopy. F. tularensis strains incubated with rabbit erythrocytes to allow for invasion. Cells were probed with anti-F. tularensis antibodies followed by red fluorescent secondary antibodies. Cells were washed and erythrocytes were permeabilized. Bacteria were probed a second time utilizing a green fluorescent secondary antibody. Therefore, intracellular bacteria were only labeled with a singular secondary antibody, while extracellular bacteria were tagged with two secondary antibodies. Intracellular bacterial enumeration showed that deletion of FTL_1199 resulted in a significant reduction of invasion (p = 0.0253), while FTL_1199 complementation to the deletion mutant restored invasion to that of wild type (p = 0.3258). These data demonstrate that FTL_1199 plays an important role in erythrocyte invasion.

(Supported by NIH Grant P20GM103434 to the West Virginia IDeA Network for Biomedical Research Excellence, R15HL14735 from NHLBI, and funds from the NASA West Virginia Space Grant Consortium).
Estimating the dosage and feasibility of intranasal administration of creatine.
Authors: Popovich Greg Edward , Hollen Connor 
Published: April 2024

Creatine dysregulation is present in many psychiatric and neurocognitive conditions, supporting the notion that oral creatine supplementation could constitute a viable treatment for conditions such as dementia, depression, and concussion. We recently proposed an intranasal route of administration (ROA) of creatine as a means of efficiently dosing creatine to achieve absorption across the blood brain barrier while targeting preferential delivery to the brain. Indeed, a subsequent murine study supports that creatine can be absorbed via the nasal ROA. The objective of this project is to refine this ROA and estimate appropriate dosage for research trials.
The amount of creatine needed to directly supply the brain is but a small portion of the dose that is administered orally for whole-body saturation. A single dose of creatine is typically 5 g, which results in a calculated blood concentration of 80 mg/dL based upon average adult blood volume. Evidence suggests this is sufficient to raise brain creatine levels. Given the adult brain blood volume of 100‒130 mL, we estimate that a minimum of 80 mg of nasally-administered creatine would need to pass from the nasal cavity across the blood-brain barrier. Even if the nasal columnar epithelium or mucus were to pose a barrier, doubling or tripling the dose would still represent a relatively modest amount of nasally-delivered creatine (e.g., 160‒240 mg) in solution. We predict that the amount of nasally-administered creatine to theoretically raise brain blood concentration to a therapeutic level would be modest and practical.
DNA Extraction Methods
Authors: Long Katie 
Published: April 2024

KATIE LONG and MARK FLOOD, Forensic Science Program, Fairmont State University, Fairmont, WV 26554. Evaluation of DNA Extraction Methods.
Three forms of DNA extraction types include solution-based, column-based, and magnetic bead-based methodologies, with the latter being the accepted methodology used in forensic laboratories. Magnetic bead-based DNA extraction uses the negative charge of DNA and the positive charge of the magnetic beads to isolate the DNA strands and produce a purified sample. However, solution and column-based extraction methods use the same techniques of washing to purify DNA and typically have comparable DNA yields. Cheek swabs were obtained from ten individuals and the three extraction methods were performed to determine the quantitation of double-stranded DNA and the quality of the gel electrophoresis profile. Preliminary results indicate that solution-based extraction produces a slightly higher yield of double-stranded DNA having a 3.92% difference between the average quantitation of 26.29 ng/µL from solution-based and 25.28 ng/µL from magnetic bead-based methods. However, it is expected that the magnetic bead-based extraction will produce higher quality gel electrophoresis results. Overall, the methods examined produced similar DNA extraction efficiencies. This research was made possible by NASA West Virginia Space Grant Consortium, Training Grant #80NSSC20M0055 and the STaR Sure Grant.
Enhancing STEM Enrollment, Retention, and Graduation
Authors: Smith Johnna , Burton Raina , Wang Qing , Adams Karen 
Published: April 2024

JOHNNA SMITH, Dept of Mathematics, Shepherd University, Shepherdstown, WV, 25443, RAINA BURTON, Dept of Mathematics, Shepherd University, Shepherdstown, WV, 25443, QING WANG and KAREN ADAMS, Dept of Computer Sciences, Mathematics, and Engineering, Shepherd University, Shepherdstown, WV, 25443. Enhancing STEM enrollment, retention, and graduation: insights and strategies for student success.

The objective of this study is to synthesize over 20 findings related to STEM success and its measurement to enhance student recruitment, retention, and graduation rates. Surveys were analyzed focusing on various student categories, including underrepresented minorities (URMs), high-achievers, low-income individuals, first-generation students, community college transfers, and gender diversity, among others. Our findings demonstrate that improving students’ self-efficacy and fostering a sense of belonging significantly contribute to their success and persistence in STEM. Consequently, programs such as undergraduate research opportunities, networking, seminars, summer bridge programs, field trips, and workshops are identified as crucial for enhancing students’ confidence and sense of belonging, thereby facilitating their success and perseverance in STEM fields. The project was supported by the Summer Undergraduate Research Experience Grant (SOARS) from West Virginia Higher Education Policy Commission Division of Science and Research and the NSF S-STEM Grant (award No. DUE-2130267).
Does Eye Color Affect Vision Acuity in a Variety of Light Conditions?
Authors: Varney Tailynn , Henson Kristy 
Published: April 2024

Eye color is a physical characteristic that varies from person-to-person. Due to a range ofpigmentation of the iris, people with different eye colors tend to see the world differently. For those with lighter eyes, it may be more difficult to see clearly in environments with certain light conditions or intensities. Throughout a person’s life, they encounter several different forms of light ranging from natural sunlight to artificial lighting. In my research, I investigated whether a person’s eye color influences their vision in artificial lighting compared to natural lighting.Preliminary results show that light did influence visual acuity. However, there was no correlation between eye color and light influenced vision changes. To assess vision, participants were asked to cover each eye and read a Snellen eye chart. This was completed a total of four times. Using two separate eye charts, participants were tested at ten and twenty feet away from the charts. Each test was presented in a room with only artificial light, and outside of the building in natural light. This information can help individuals ensure that the change in vision, if any, caused by different kinds of light does not negatively influence their everyday life. In extreme situations those with eyes more sensitive to certain types of light could cause harm to themselves or others around them. Having this information about oneself is helpful to all people, not just those with a history of eye issues.
Lipidomic analysis by LC-MS/MS of wildtype, mutant and VBNC strains of Francisella tularensis LVS.
Authors: Rachelle Patterson  
Published: April 2024

Francisella tularensis is one of the many bacteria that can enter a viable but nonculturable state (VBNC). The VBNC state acts as an adaptive strategy that allows for long-term survival of bacteria in unfavorable environments. A defining characteristic of VBNC bacteria is a loss of culturability, making VBNC bacteria difficult to detect in the environment using standard plating assays. Failure to identify VBNC bacteria in the food industry or water distribution centers poses a serious risk to human health. Our preliminary data suggests that lipid metabolism plays a role in VBNC adaptation in F. tularensis. To investigate further, genetic deletion mutants have been constructed from two predicted lipid metabolism genes, FTL_1569 (phosphoglycolate phosphatase) and FTL_1570 (phospholipase D family protein). Lipid extracts were collected from wildtype, mutant and VBNC strains of F. tularensis to determine any lipid species associated with the VBNC state. A single-phase lipid extraction method was used to obtain lipids from F. tularensis cultures grown for 24 hours (culturable) and 336 hours (VBNC). Liquid chromatography with tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS-MS) and the ThermoFisher Compound Discoverer software were utilized for lipid identification, and comparative analyses. Differences in the lipid profile of wildtype, mutant and VBNC strains of F. tularensis have been identified. (Supported by NIH Grant P20GM103434 to the West Virginia IDeA Network for Biomedical Research Excellence)
Smart Parking Space Detection with Generative Artificial Intelligence and Large Language Models
Authors: Vu Cameron , Panova Daria , Kowalski Josiah , Liao Weidong , Guzide Osman 
Published: April 2024

CAMERON VU, Dept of Computer Science and Math & ENGR, Shepherd University, Shepherdstown, WV, 25443, and DARIA PANOVA, Dept of Computer Science and Math & ENGR, Shepherd University, Shepherdstown, WV, 25443, and JOSIAH KOWALSKI, Dept of Computer Science and Math & ENGR, Shepherd University, Shepherdstown, WV, 25443, and Dr. W. LIAO (Faculty Advisor), Dept of Computer Science and Math & ENGR, Shepherd University, Shepherdstown, WV, 25443, and Dr. O. Guzide (Faculty Advisor), Dept of Computer Science and Math & ENGR, Shepherd University, Shepherdstown, WV, 25443. Smart Parking Space Detection with Generative Artificial Intelligence and Large Language Models.
The increasing relevance of generative AI and large language models is reshaping various sectors of modern society. These advancements have spurred notable progress in fields such as healthcare, finance, and education. Yet, the application of AI extends beyond expert domains, offering simplified solutions to everyday tasks for the general populace.
This project harnesses the power of generative artificial intelligence and large language models to develop a practical application: smart parking space detection. By leveraging these technologies, individuals can effortlessly ascertain the availability of parking spots in monitored lots via camera or photographic monitoring, facilitated by a straightforward algorithm. The overarching objective is twofold: to engineer a user-friendly system utilizing generative AI principles and to demonstrate the potential for such technologies to enhance the daily experiences of ordinary individuals.
Exploring mathematic struggles among STEM students at Fairmont State University
Authors: George Josh , Henson Kristy 
Published: April 2024

Mathematics serves as the cornerstone of every STEM major, and proficiency in this subject is paramount for achieving academic success, societal integration, and meaningful participation in the workplace. However, numerous students encounter challenges in mastering mathematical concepts. In West Virginia, students face an additional hurdle, poverty, with households in the state ranking among the lowest earners in the nation. This can have significant implications for the funding and resources available to the West Virginia School System. Recognizing the interplay between socioeconomic factors and academic performance is crucial for devising targeted interventions and providing necessary support. In pursuit of this understanding, during the 2023-2024 school year, we administered a survey in 50 STEM courses at Fairmont State University (n = 447) and collected data from the LEAD Center on tutoring. Preliminary results show that math made up 50% and chemistry 37% of requested tutoring subjects in STEM and 69.7% receiving tutoring were in their first two years. Survey demographics are the following: gender identity: 212 male, 212 female, and 4 non-binary; economic status: 82% were middle class, 13% working class, and 4% on assistance; 29.5% are first generation; 62% are within their first two years of study. The most common math completed in high school was algebra (24.8%), trigonometry (34%), and calculus (24.4%). There was a strong correlation between major and enjoying math (0.99) and having a good math teacher in high school (0.62). Through data analysis and working with students directly, our goal is to discover why students struggle with math and how to better prepare future generations.
NSF S-STEM Program - Supporting Undergraduate Cohorts of Career-Ready Engineering and Science Scholars (SUCCESS) Project at WVU Tech – Year 3 updates
Authors: Panta Yogendra M , Hatipoglu Kenan , Floyd-Smith Tamara 
Published: April 2024

The SUCCESS project at WVU Tech aims to recruit, retain, and graduate low-income STEM students with high motivation and entrepreneurial mindset, enhancing their likelihood of employment in technology-based businesses or creating start-up ventures. This report provides updates for Year 3, focusing on the recruitment and retention efforts. Currently, there are 20 scholars in the program, with Cohort 1 comprising seven students and Cohort 2 comprising 13 students. The program has seen some changes in Cohort 2 structure, with three Computer Science (CS) students dropping out in Fall 2023, and four new sophomore students including one Computer Engineering (CpE) and three CS students being admitted. Scholars have engaged in various activities, including completing entrepreneurship courses, attending career fairs, and working on research projects with faculty. The project team is actively collecting and analyzing feedback from scholars to ensure necessary improvements are implemented. Major activities during Year 3 included faculty mentor meetings, IEEE/ACM student branch engagements, and industry mentor interactions. Looking ahead, the project aims to continue supporting scholars in their academic and career pursuits, with a focus on enhancing industry mentorship and peer-to-peer relations. Additionally, the project has diligently explored opportunities to expand its impact to all eight existing engineering programs at WVU Tech and has recently submitted a Track 2 proposal to the NSF S-STEM program. The updates conclude with a discussion on the project's impact on student outcomes and the broader STEM community.
Exploring and Synthesis of bio-active natural product coupling reactions
Authors: Sierra Lilly  
Published: April 2024

Utilizing natural products in drug discovery research are very comment practice and they lead to more than fifty percent of current medicines in the market. However, there are still needed in new therapeutic entities that can improve the efficiency of drugs against the enzymes. We are hoping this and future study lead to combat unmet needs among healthcare. Having said that, we would like to explore the coupling reactions to make bio-active natural products similar to capsaicin natural product and its chemical synthetic optimization before the its kinetic study. Currently, we are exploring two distinctive coupling reaction conditions to optimize the reaction condition and will present current status of our research project of coupling reaction. Furthermore, we would like to carry on enzymatic profile against resinaase HT enzyme to see how stable amide bond is.
Expression of Chemokine Ligands cxcl12a and cxcl12b in the Habenular Region in Danio rerio (zebrafish)
Authors: Roberson Sara , Thomas Amber 
Published: April 2024

The habenula (Hb) is a bilateral cluster of neurons in the forebrain. The interpeduncular nucleus (IPN) is an important component of the midbrain. Together, they make up the Hb-IPN conduction system. This system plays an important role in sleep, reward-based decision making, and various other behaviors and processes. These important structures are found in all vertebrates, but the understanding of the development of this pathway is in the preliminary stages. Previous studies in zebrafish show that chemokine signaling plays an important role in Hb axonal outgrowth. Chemokine (c-x-c) motif receptor 4b (Cxcr4b), which is made in the dorsal habenula (dHb), helps direct axons toward the IPN. Cxcl12a and Cxcl12b are the two ligands in this signaling pathway, which offer guidance cues to dHb axons, though their functions are not yet entirely clear. cxcl12a mutants show dysfunctional dHb axonal projections, with many axons projecting anteriorly, in the opposite direction of the IPN. Mutants with ectopic cxcl12b expression show similar results. Dorsal views show cxcl12a and cxcl12b are both transcribed in regions posterior to the dHb; cxcl12b is also transcribed anterior to the dHb. However, the relative expression patterns of these ligands is unknown, and may give us a clearer understanding of their respective functions in directing dHb axons. To do this, we will employ in situ hybridization, which will allow us to simultaneously visualize where cxcl12a and cxcl12b are being transcribed along the path of the developing dHb axons.