24067 research outputs found
Sort by
Molecular Visualization Laboratory (BIOL4450): The Study of Auxin Production and its Biosynthetic Pathways
No full textAuxin is an important hormone in plants, regulating numerous processes related to plant growth and development. Interestingly, it is also produced by some microorganisms, including Pseudomonas syringae strain DC3000, a common pathogen that infects plants such as Arabidopsis thaliana. P. syringae strain DC3000 shows evidence of inhibiting salicylic acid-mediated defenses of A. thaliana as well as increasing its virulence by synthesizing phytohormone auxin indole-3-acetic acid (IAA) via an indole-3-acetaldehyde (IAAld)-dependent biosynthetic pathway. These microorganisms utilize tryptophan as a precursor for five biosynthetic pathways that produce IAA. Many of these pathways involve different enzymes to catalyze the reaction, such as aldehyde dehydrogenase A (AldA), B (AldB), and C (AldC). We aim to learn about these enzymes and their purpose in the IAA biosynthetic pathway by utilizing advanced technologies to gain a better understanding of their biochemical and structural properties. We seek to display models, like auxin, in a more inclusive way to spread more information on these proteins, their significance, their structures, and much more. In the “Molecular Visualization Laboratory (BIOL4450)” class at KSU, we have explored the uses of 3D molecular models to visualize protein structures using recent technology. The technologies that will be utilized are virtual reality (VR), augmented reality (AR), 3D printing, and X-ray crystallography. These 3D models and biochemical techniques have helped us, as students, to better understand the structures of molecules. Most importantly, these technologies have enhanced our academic grasp of biochemistry topics, enabling us to effectively communicate this knowledge to others. Such topics include the relationships between macromolecules and small molecules. By understanding the IAA biosynthetic pathways and the 3D structures of aldehyde dehydrogenases, we can uncover the molecular basis for potentially reducing the virulence and replication of pathogens
Effects of Bacterial Community Diversity on Beehive Health
No full textBee pollination massively supports our food supply, economy, and overall biodiversity. With beekeepers seeing an increase in colony losses over the last few years, finding better ways to support hive health is crucial. A beehive’s health can be assessed by observing how much honey it produces, and it is well known that factors such as climate change and pesticide use impact hive health. Bacterial diversity is another potential factor impacting hive health that can be analyzed to create ways to optimize maintenance and growth of hives. DNA metabarcoding is a method that evaluates standardized sections of the genome that are unique to certain species in order to identify all species within a sample. We used DNA metabarcoding to determine the species of bacteria present in samples taken from three different beehives of varying ages and degrees of health. Bacterial diversity between the hives will be compared, and it is expected that the hives with greater bacterial diversity will be older and healthier. Methods to increase or diversify the microbiome could be developed to promote hive health
The Ball Game, Sacrifice, and Skull Racks in Prehistoric Mesoamerica
No full textThe Postclassic period (AD 900-1519) in ancient Mesoamerica was dominated by three distinct cultures: the Toltec, the Maya, and the Aztec. These three cultures were interconnected by numerous aspects of both the physical and cosmological worlds. The creation myths associated with all three of these prehistoric civilizations place heavy emphasis on sacred animals such as the jaguar, the playing of the ball game, and the practice of human sacrifice. In fact, the ball game was so important in ancient Mesoamerica, that it became a central point of focus in the creation myths of all three cultures. While there is a plethora of academic information regarding the Mesoamerican ball game, there is a significant lack of information regarding the practices of human sacrifice that coincided with the game itself – specifically, the displaying of the loser’s decapitated head on architectural structures called tzompantli, or “skull racks.” The intention of this study is to gain a better understanding as to the significance of skull racks, why they were so important to Mesoamerican cultures, and why these mysterious structures continue to be an architectural enigma within the study of pre-Columbian civilizations
Inclination of Direction Preference during Silent Failure: Drivers\u27 Response at a Three-Way Junction while using Non-Dominant Hand
Get PDFThis study explores the steering direction of drivers using their non-dominant hand when they encounter a silent failure at a T-shaped intersection. Building on previous research that highlights the low probability of participants making false alarms or breaking unexpectedly as well as the belief that left turns allow more time for the individual to steer compared to right turns, we hypothesized drivers would prefer to turn left. Data collection consisted of showing video simulation of a self-driving vehicle to the participant via Microsoft Teams virtual meeting application. We are currently collecting the data
Examining the interactions between symptom masking, quality of life, mental health and other lived experiences in adults with Autism Spectrum Disorder.
No full textThis study investigated the relationship between symptom masking, overall quality of life, mental health (i.e., stress, anxiety, and depression) and other lived experiences in adults with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). The World Health Organization describes ASD as a group of conditions that are characterized by having difficulty in social interactions and communication as well as restricted or repetitive behaviors. Masking (also referred to as camouflaging) is when a person tries to hide or mask their symptoms or personality to fit in to societal norms. Camouflaging is common in ASD. Further, recent research revealed a negative relationship between camouflaging and quality of life in individuals with ASD. However, the effects of symptom camouflaging on mental health have been understudied in ASD as have the relationships between age of diagnoses and these variables. Continued research is therefore needed to unpack these nuanced relationships. In this study, 150 participants with ASD were recruited through an online platform, Prolific, to complete a battery of self-report questionnaires regarding ASD symptomatology, symptom masking habits, mental health, quality of life and other demographic questions. Regression analyses evaluating the relationships amongst variables will be discussed. This project adds to the scientific literature on ASD by illustrating how camouflaging may affect not only mental health but also broader lived experiences
Basic Amino Acids as Charged State Reducing Agents for Native Mass Spectrometry
No full textNative Mass Spectrometry (MS) allows for the characterization of biomolecules in their native state, preserving their structure. The electrospray ionization of the native mass spectrometry transfers samples from the liquid phase to the gas phase by introducing a high voltage to the sample. The electrostatic charge of the sample causes proteins to unfold, leading to a more complex mixture of ions, complicating data analysis, identification efforts, and quantificational efforts. To prevent the unfolding of proteins charged state reducers can be used to lower the electrostatic repulsion between highly charged groups on the protein which maximizes the maintenance of the native conformation of proteins. In previous studies, it has been found that high concentrations of imidazole derivatives are effective in lowering the charge state that is acquired during the ionization process resulting in lowered repulsion between charged groups of a protein as well as dissociation. In this research, the charge reducing capacity of various basic amino acids such as histidine, lysine, and arginine are tested for a model protein lysozyme. The mass spectrum of lysozyme obtained in water showed the charge states from 8+ to 11+ where 10+ charge state was more dominant. Various concentrations of amino acids were tested from 0.1 mM to 1 mM. In the presence of Histidine, Lysozyme showed the charge states from 4+ to 10+ where 7+ was more intense. Similar features were obtained for Arginine and Lysine. This study showed that basic amino acids have potential to be very effective charge reducing agents and particularly significant charge reducing capacity was noticed for Histidine compared to all other amino acids and imidazole
Chemical Synthesis and Characterization of Skin Care Peptides
No full textPeptides have gained a lot of attention in skin care products because of their beneficial properties and cost efficiency. Overall, peptides are known for their multifaceted properties to help with anti-aging properties. Although most of the natural peptides are extracted from various biological sources, the purity and quality of these peptides are questionable. Besides extracting these peptides, the specific skin care peptide can also be synthesized by traditional solid phase peptide synthesis protocols, however, very few studies are reported. The goal of this research is to synthesize skin-care peptide using solid phase peptide synthesis and characterize them by mass spectrometry to confirm the synthesis and purity. Two peptides were synthesized using the Blue Liberty microwave peptide synthesizer with the help of Rink amide resin. In the first step, the 9-fluorenylmethoxycarbonyl (Fmoc) group was removed from amino acids using piperidine, and then coupling was performed by activator (diisopropylcarbodiimide) and activator bases (oxyma). The couplings and deprotection steps are repeated for each amino acid. Subsequently, the peptide-resin was dried using DCM. The peptide was cleaved from the resin using a cleavage cocktail containing 95% TFA, 2.5% TIPS and 2.5% water. This helps separate the peptide chain from the resin. Then, Nitrogen gas assisted to remove any remaining TFA. Afterwards, the cold ether was added to precipitate the peptide, and 10% acetic acid was mixed to dissolve the peptide and subsequently froze and lyophilize overnight. This study shows that the peptide was successfully synthesized as evident of two peaks observed at m/z 564.3 and 282.67 which correspond to [M+H]+ and [M+2H]2+ charge states matched with the theoretical mass of the peptide. The second peptide was also synthesized but the mass spectrum showed that one arginine residue is missing from the intact peptide. In future, the toxicity of these peptides will be investigated
A Comprehensive Database Collection for Alzheimer’s Disease: Organizing Key Research Domains to Enhance Diagnostics and Treatment
No full textAlzheimer’s disease is a neurological disorder that is progressive and characterized by gradual degeneration of brain cells resulting in decline of cognition, memory, and behavior. According to the National Institute of Aging, Alzheimer’s disease is currently ranked 7th leading cause of death in the United States. Our research objective is to build a collection of databases for further Alzheimer’s disease research. This comprehensive collection includes various databases from both clinical and scientific perspectives. The diverse collection of databases ranges from the International Alzheimer’s and Related Dementias Research portfolio to the National Alzheimer’s Coordinating Center among others. These databases are then classified into categories based on their biomarkers, drug development, genetic research, and many other categories. The goal of this research is to aid medical professionals, researchers, and pharmaceutical companies with valuable data to improve Alzheimer’s disease treatment, early detections, and integrating deep learning applications using these database holds the key to unlocking patterns, predicting disease progression, and enhancing diagnostics
BLOOM: Behavioral Learning and Outcome Observation in Microbes
Get PDFUnderstanding how pathogens respond to physical changes in their environment is crucial for developing effective treatments and preventative measures. Current research often relies on static models or experimental data that either fail to capture the dynamic interactions within cellular environments or are not generalizable to other types of pathogens. This project aims to address this gap by creating a comprehensive cell simulation that models pathogens and their response to chemical, physical, and physiological changes. The proposed solution is a simulation that integrates biological data and computational modeling to replicate the behavior of pathogens in real time as they are affected by various changes in their surroundings. By utilizing advanced algorithms and databases, the simulation will enable users to observe the effects of different vaccines on the cellular structure and signaling pathways of pathogens. This approach not only enhances our understanding of cellular dynamics but also provides a valuable educational tool for students and researchers alike. Expected results include the successful demonstration of the simulation\u27s ability to accurately represent cellular responses under various conditions. By validating the model against experimental data, we anticipate identifying critical thresholds at which these single-celled organisms initiate defensive mechanisms. Furthermore, this project aims to reveal novel insights into the relationship between types of invaders and host cells, potentially guiding future research into targeted therapies. Overall, this innovative cell simulation has the potential to significantly advance the field of cellular biology and enhance our ability to combat infectious diseases
Museum of Anthropocene: A Space to exhibit alternative histories of Life on Earth
No full textMany scientists have agreed that we’re living in an epoch where human activity has profoundly transformed earth processes. They argue that we are no longer a biological entity among others but rather geological forces. Human-induced stresses have altered the chemistry of our atmosphere. The environment can sometimes reach a climax where the Earth, as a recipient of these human actions, changes at a rate that can only end badly for humans. As Alan Weissman ironically asks “If humans were to vanish from the Earth, would the Earth even miss us? Architecture can serve as a medium to induce these radical changes necessary. Whether Germania by Adolf Hitler’s head architect Albert Speer or Washington D.C Capitol by William Thornton, Architecture can serve as a medium for public opinion, propaganda, or positive societal change. The idea of the Museum of Anthropocene is to grapple with the entangled histories of humans and geology, while offering a dialogue about the human temporality with the Earth. The Museum of Anthropocene seeks to answer the questions of How can architecture function as a public conscious means in altering the effects of human activity on a planetary scale? How can a museum of history of human ecological intervention on earth processes raise consciousness about the negative effects of our collective lifestyles? This Thesis seeks to educate the audience; while showing the worst of the actions we have done throughout history that leads to our deterioration and the best of our actions that ultimately lead to a prolonged future. The proposed site of Washington D.C. bears significant weight positioning the museum at the intersection of power, culture, and public accountability. Truly a site in the face of power would show that this is a pressing matter not to be ignored