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Domain Communication in Bifunctional Proline Utilization A from Sinorhizobium Meliloti
No full textThe reduction potential of flavin bound to Sinorhizobium meliloti proline utilization A (SmPutA) is beneficial in providing vital information on enzyme activity and the active site environment. Flavin is crucial in biological metabolism such as aerobic respiration and other important processes like oxygen activation that are catalyzed by flavin-dependent enzymes. (4). In this study, we seek to determine whether the redox potential of SmPutA-bound flavin can be used to characterize potential long-distance communication and analyze the possibilities of inactivation reversibility. SmPutA is a large bifunctional enzyme that catalyzes the overall oxidation of proline to glutamate via two catalytic domains (1). The first domain is proline dehydrogenase (PRODH) which catalyzes the flavin-dependent oxidation of L-proline to Δ1-pyrroline-5-carboxylate (P5C) (1). The second domain catalyzes the NAD+-dependent oxidation of L-glutamic-γ-semialdehyde (GSAL) to L-glutamate (1). The overall reaction is facilitated by 40 Å tunnel that connects the two catalytic domains enabling P5C to travel directly from the PRODH domain to the GSAL dehydrogenase (GSALDH) domain (1). Here we explore long-range communication between the PRODH and GSALDH domains using redox potentiometry. The redox potential of the flavin bound in the PRODH domain was measured with different ligands bound to the GSALDH site. The reversibility of the inhibiting ligand, Ebselen, bound to the GSALDH site was also studied for activity recovery. Discovering a change in the flavin redox potential upon ligand binding and reversing inactivation would provide novel insights into large-scale conformational changes in SmPutA to enhance substrate channeling and the understanding of PutA function
Linguistic Differences Between Spanish and English: Challenges for Native Spanish Speakers and Instructional Strategies for Effective Language Learning
No full textThis research article presents a contrastive analysis of Spanish and English, highlighting key linguistic differences that contribute to common grammatical errors among Spanish-speaking English learners. The study examines these differences across four linguistic layers: phonology, morphology, syntax, and semantics. Through error analysis, patterns of language transfer were identified and used to develop four 50-minute lesson plans tailored for English Language Learning (ELL) classes with native Spanish speakers. By recognizing students’ prior linguistic knowledge, ELL teachers can anticipate and address common errors more effectively. Special emphasis is placed on phonemes, morphemes, cognates, and sentence orders that do not exist in both languages, providing targeted instructional strategies to bridge these gaps
Understanding How Family Dynamics Affect Mental Health Communication in Inside Out: A Content Analysis
No full textThis study examines the impact of open communication between family members on mental health and a child’s sense of belonging in the film Inside Out. Previous research has shown the impact of media on children’s socialization, which can influence stigma and make it less likely for vulnerable communication to occur. It is crucial for children to learn to communicate their emotions, and the media can play a key role in shaping these beliefs. Inside Out provides a positive example of mental health communication, which is specifically explored through Riley’s communication with her parents throughout the film. Using a content analysis, this report aimed to answer, “how does the quality of Riley’s communication with her parents in Inside Out influence her mental health and sense of belonging?” The paper found three main themes: 1) the expectation for Riley to be happy, 2) parental attempts at communication, but resistance from Riley, and 3) the importance of healthy family relationships for mental health. This report highlights the potential positive role that the media has in shaping children’s understanding of mental health and the importance of honest communication
Strategic Audit: Hilton Worldwide Holdings, Inc.
No full textThis comprehensive strategic audit analyzes the internal and external environment in which Hilton Worldwide Holdings Inc. operates, in addition to auditing the strategic drivers that have drove the iconic hospitality firm to success. Hilton Worldwide Holdings, Inc. (Hilton) is a valued hotel chain that has been operating as a global leader in the hospitality industry for more than 100 years. The firm sets an industry standard to provide high-quality hotel services and a reliable stay for more than 200 million guests annually and continues to develop its portfolio of destinations. Technological advancements and shifting customer preferences challenge Hilton to remain innovative across all properties and brands while managing industry disruptions from competitors and other industry threats. Hilton has thrived on its ability to broadly differentiate itself from various customer segments while prioritizing efforts to lead sustainable and cost-effective practices. While that is Hilton’s main competitive strategy, they cater strategies to different brands along their portfolio. High-scale brands drive on more differentiation tactics, while low-scale brands strive for cost reductions. Hilton’s value chain focuses on functional needs firmwide to ensure standard logistics and operation activities, which is evident in Hilton’s consistent marketing campaigns and promising customer service. Hilton needs to directly address alternative accommodations rising to substitute hotel stays. While acquisitions increase offerings, Hilton should innovate alternatives to compete against Airbnb or Vrbo before shifting preferences harm its franchisees and managed hotels. Additionally, Hilton must expand its upper-scale portfolio in demanding regions like Asia-Pacific, where Marriott and Accor SA dominate. These efforts have led to impressive growth, with Hilton scaling new developments at the highest rate among hotel companies. Strategic recommendations will be analyzed through various management analyses
Evolution and Strengths of School Lunch Programs in the United States and Japan
No full textSchool lunches around the world perform a vital role in children’s nutritional needs and overall health. These nutritional programs provide a chance for children to learn how to create a balanced meal and about the production and serving of food. However, many countries, including the United States and Japan, have taken different approaches to meet these goals, influenced by the needs of children and communities over time. The United States provides support, funding, and nutritional standards through the National School Lunch Program. Japan promotes the Basic Act of Shokuiku (food and nutrition education) within society and outlines goals for schools through the School Lunch Act. This honor’s thesis explores the historical development of programs in the respective countries, as well as analyzes the current school lunch programs with a focus on Lincoln, Nebraska in the U.S. and Shintotsukawa in Hokkaido Prefecture in Japan. This research establishes that both Lincoln and Shintotsukawa play a substantial role in supporting children in their communities - especially through nutritional support. Farm to School activities and the use of local, fresh food and balanced meals are some of the strengths within the U.S. system. Japan prioritizes comparable activities and utilizes a school lunch nutritionist in most schools to strengthen the connection between fulfilling nutritional requirements and the importance of learning about nutrition to sustain a healthy lifestyle
Piecing Together the Past: Documenting the Philanthropic History of Lincoln’s Arts and Culture
No full textThis project explores the creation of a book chapter discussing the history of philanthropy in Lincoln, Nebraska, focusing on its impact on arts and culture. The chapter will be published in Fall 2025 by the Lincoln Community Foundation. By documenting philanthropy in the arts and culture spaces, this book and chapter hope to inspire further giving by showcasing the benefit that has been reaped through giving. Through research of public records and a series of interviews, this chapter examines Lincoln’s key donors and arts organizations from the mid-19th century to the present. This project explores the process and key takeaways of writing about the history of philanthropy in Lincoln. Beyond recounting the process of creating the chapter, this project explores the broader significance of philanthropy in creating a community that prioritizes the arts
A Comparative Analysis of Women’s Health in Latin America and the United States: Geographical Context and Preventative Actions
No full textCervical cancer, breast cancer, sexually transmitted infections (STIs), pregnancy complications, and gender-based violence are dangers faced by women everywhere. However, the severity of these risks can increase significantly due to a country’s geography, government control, and level of development. This thesis expands upon information gained directly from on-site experiences with medical professionals and locals (including doctors, nurses, nutritionists, and patients) in Peru, Ecuador, and Costa Rica, and further research to look at Latin America as a whole, in relation to the United States. Both the US and Latin America exhibit problems with their healthcare systems. The United States is more equipped at responding to emergency patient needs and preventing deaths by cervical and breast cancer than Latin America - largely due to higher levels of education and a more structured government. Latin America has a much more diverse geographical region than the United States and therefore exhibits a wider range of health concerns for its inhabitants - specifically for those in isolated communities in the Andes mountains and Amazon rainforest. Future actions require increased education on women’s health in Latin America and additional laws protecting the rights of women in those countries
Dutch Bros Coffee Strategic Audit
No full textThis case study focuses on Dutch Bros, a leading drive-thru coffee chain. A strategic audit was conducted to understand the company’s strategic management principles: external and internal factors, performance and competition, business level strategy, corporate level strategy, and organizational design and governance. In addition, the audit studies the implications of their recent strategic decisions to expand roasting facilities and move towards corporate-owned stores rather than operating a franchise model.
The research contained in this audit used publicly available information, including Dutch Bro’s financial statements, information from their website, annual reports, IBIS industry reports, and online press coverage
The Importance of Public Health in College Populations: Why Vaccines are Important
No full textThis paper examines the importance of vaccines in college populations, where high-density living environments create unique vulnerabilities to infectious disease outbreaks. Despite vaccine mandates at most institutions, research indicates that many college students possess incomplete understanding of vaccine mechanisms and importance. The paper addresses three interconnected aspects: the biological foundations of vaccine-induced immunity, the significance of vaccination in collegiate settings, and the current state of vaccine literacy among students. Historical outbreaks on campuses, including meningitis at Princeton and mumps across several institutions, highlight the consequences of undervaccination. Social media misinformation has contributed significantly to vaccine hesitancy, particularly since COVID-19. The research suggests that targeted educational interventions, like posters, through campus campaigns, required health courses, and accessible outreach could enhance vaccine literacy, protecting not only campus communities but also preparing students to make informed health decisions throughout their lives
Biological Reduction of Perchlorate in Martian Regolith Simulant Using Azospira Oryzae
No full textEstablishing a sustainable human presence on Mars will require in-situ resource utilization (ISRU) to reduce costly and inefficient resupply missions. Despite containing many of the requirements for agriculture, Martian regolith is contaminated with toxic levels of perchlorate (ClO4-), threatening human health and agricultural success. Biological remediation using perchlorate-reducing bacteria offers a promising approach to address these challenges. This study investigated the perchlorate-reducing ability of Azospira oryzae, a facultative anaerobe capable of converting ClO4- to chloride (Cl-) through dissimilatory respiration. A. oryzae was cultured in Martian regolith simulant (MGS-1) amended with 0.0%, 0.5%, and 1.0% perchlorate by weight. Three assays were completed to assess reduction: OD600 measurements to track bacterial growth, a methylene blue colorimetric assay to measure perchlorate concentration, and a silver nitrate titration to measure chloride production. The use of multiple assays aimed to depict the depletion of perchlorate and production of chloride, providing insight into the full scope of this reduction pathway. The findings contribute to our understanding of how microbes may be applied in future perchlorate bioremediation efforts as part of ISRU strategies for extraterrestrial agriculture