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Investigating the Lyoprotective Properties of a Plant Antifreeze Protein
No full textLyophilization, or freeze-drying, is an important preservation method for protein-based products, such as protein pharmaceuticals. However, the process introduces both freezing and drying stresses that can harm proteins. Here, I have studied if AnAFP, a dehydrin-like antifreeze protein isolated from the broadleaf desert shrub Ammopiptanthus nanus, can protect the cold-sensitive enzyme lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) from lyophilization-induced damage. Given AnAFP’s homology to dehydrins and antifreeze proteins, I hypothesized that it can protect other proteins against both freezing and dehydration damages. LDH, known to be sensitive to both types of damage, was used as a model enzyme. It was found that AnAFP protected LDH from lyophilization damage with similar or better efficacy than 10% w/v sucrose and superior to that of another known antifreeze protein
A Relational Approach to Workplace Leadership
Get PDFThis research project examines relational leadership as an ethical and strategic foundation for fostering effective workplaces. Motivated by the growing importance of human connection in leadership, the study integrates philosophical insights, particularly Emmanuel Levinas’s ethics of the face of the Other, with empirical evidence on workplace relationship-building. A mixed-methods approach was used, combining a structured survey of 32 professionals with thematic analysis of qualitative responses. Results confirmed that strategies such as encouraging knowledge-sharing and cultivating positive relational climates significantly enhance employee well-being, psychological safety, and organizational performance. Knowledge-sharing emerged as the most effective strategy, while relationship-building was found to be underutilized in hybrid work settings. The study concludes that leadership grounded in relational ethics not only supports individual flourishing but also drives long-term organizational success, underscoring the need for intentional relational practices across both in-person and remote environments
The Impact Staphylococcus aureus has on Conventional and Organic Dairy Herds in New Hampshire and New York
Get PDFStaphylococcus aureus is a potentially virulent bacterium that causes mastitis in dairy cattle. The toxins produced from S. aureus impact host immunity, damage the mammary gland, and can adapt to cause antimicrobial resistance. It is important to manage both organic and conventional farms correctly by practicing proper hygiene while milking and providing a clean environment. There is a significant increase of S. aureus cases on organic farms compared to conventional, so there may be ways in which organic management and treatment options could be altered to reduce economic loss and animal suffering. The thesis focuses on the involvement S. aureus has in mastitis and its prevalence on farms across New England
