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Full-Text Articles in Life Sciences

Peak Aerobic Capacity And Dietary Composition Are Associated With The Bioenergetic Profile Of Platelets In Children, Duncan C. Troup Apr 2024

Peak Aerobic Capacity And Dietary Composition Are Associated With The Bioenergetic Profile Of Platelets In Children, Duncan C. Troup

Scholars Day Conference

Atherosclerosis is a disease of the cardiovascular system that is characterized by the buildup of plaque inside arteries over several decades. These plaques have the potential to rupture, causing a clot to form in the vessel. This results in an acute cardiovascular event such as myocardial infarction or stroke. Atherosclerosis remains a significant public health challenge in developed countries, being the foundational cause of roughly 50% of deaths in westernized societies and a major contributor to health costs [13,14]. Understanding this devastating disease and developing preventative measures is a highly important area of research. While the impact of cardiovascular disease …


Developing Zntpp-4ab As A Potential Photodynamic Therapy Agent, Kennedy Johnson Apr 2024

Developing Zntpp-4ab As A Potential Photodynamic Therapy Agent, Kennedy Johnson

Scholars Day Conference

Photodynamic therapy is a fairly new technique used in cancer treatment involving the use of a photosensitizer and light exposure to kill malignant cells. In this research, the use of ZnTPP-4AB as a photosensitizer and red light as a source of radiant light energy was explored in terms of cytotoxicity in the A549 lung cancer cell line. ZnTPP-4AB was synthesized by replacing the carbonyl functional groups on the ZnTPPC porphyrin with 4-amino-1-butanol. Following synthesis, the new porphyrin was purified through the use of Sephadex LH-20 and G-50 in column chromatography in order to remove impurities. To confirm the identity and …


Assessing The Nutrition Knowledge Of Track And Cross Country Athletes, Emma Kathleen Conner Apr 2024

Assessing The Nutrition Knowledge Of Track And Cross Country Athletes, Emma Kathleen Conner

Scholars Day Conference

Research shows that 76% of athletes arrive at practice and/or games already one percent dehydrated.1 Furthermore, roughly 84% of athletes have engaged in disordered eating patterns and as 70% of female athletes have been found to be falling short in their energy needs. These statistics show the importance of exposing athletes to appropriate sport nutrition education which allows athletes the opportunity to fuel their bodies well, prevent injuries, and improve performance. Additionally Ouachita does not have a sports nutrition registered dietitian on campus to be used as a resource. Due to these statistics, there is reason to believe athletes are …


The Development Of A New Water-Soluble Zinc Porphyrin, Zntpp-2mp, As A Photodynamic Therapy Agent, Emily Payne Apr 2024

The Development Of A New Water-Soluble Zinc Porphyrin, Zntpp-2mp, As A Photodynamic Therapy Agent, Emily Payne

Scholars Day Conference

Photodynamic therapy is a new technique used in cancer treatment involving the use of a photosensitizer and light exposure to kill malignant cells. This research tested the use of ZnTPP-2MP as a photosensitizer using white light as a source of possible treatment of the A549 cancer cell line, with preliminary testing on MYC-22 and other G- quadruplex DNA samples. ZnTPP-2MP was synthesized by the reaction of the porphyrin, ZnTPPC, with 2-amino-2- methyl-1-propanol. Following synthesis, the new porphyrin was purified by column chromatography using Sephadex LH-20 and G-50. To confirm the identity and structure of the product, ZnTPP-2MP was analyzed through …


The Effects Of Light And Hypo-Gravity On The Development And Movement Of Dictyostelium Discoideum, Will Ross, Lawrence Davis Apr 2024

The Effects Of Light And Hypo-Gravity On The Development And Movement Of Dictyostelium Discoideum, Will Ross, Lawrence Davis

Scholars Day Conference

Dictyostelium discoideum is a prevalent eukaryotic slime mold that has been utilized in many experiments because of its distinct development as an organism. Dictyostelium d.’s life cycle (figure 2) starts as spores which develop into amoebae, which feed on bacteria and when conditions are right, they will develop into multicellular structures referred to as slugs. The focal point of this experiment is to observe the movement and development of the slugs in response to light and the influence of gravity using a clinostat. To conduct the experiment, ten slugs were placed in the center of each lactose peptone plate and …


Proliferation And Oxygen Production Of Arthrospira Platensis In Varying Light Intensities, Trace H. Morrow, Lawrence Davis, Jim Taylor Apr 2024

Proliferation And Oxygen Production Of Arthrospira Platensis In Varying Light Intensities, Trace H. Morrow, Lawrence Davis, Jim Taylor

Scholars Day Conference

As space travel becomes more advanced, adequate nourishment and oxygen resources are crucial issues for scientists concerning long-term travel. Arthrospira platensis, also known as spirulina, is a protein rich cyanobacteria that could potentially provide a solution to these issues with minimal energy consumption. Spirulina is known to be used for protein supplementation with various health benefits and pharmacological applications. In addition, spirulina cultures produce high amounts of oxygen through photosynthesis using carbon dioxide. Proliferation and oxygen production are primarily dependent on the spirulina cell structure (straight or coiled). A mixed culture (containing straight and spiral Spirulina cells) and a spiral …


Using Oncodb's Oncovirus Analysis For Hbv-Related Hcc, Anna Claire Newman Apr 2024

Using Oncodb's Oncovirus Analysis For Hbv-Related Hcc, Anna Claire Newman

Scholars Day Conference

Since one of the known causes of cancer is virus infection causing changes in gene regulation, being able to compare the expression and methylation of regular tumors and virus-related tumors could provide much needed information into virus induced cancer such as HBV-related HCC. OncoDB's oncovirus analysis capabilities can provide information and research opportunities that past research has not had.


Synthesis Of Zntpp-Il As A Potential Photodynamic Therapy Agent, Addison White Apr 2024

Synthesis Of Zntpp-Il As A Potential Photodynamic Therapy Agent, Addison White

Scholars Day Conference

Photodynamic Therapy is a new technique used in cancer treatment involving the use of a photosensitizer—a porphyrin—and light exposure to kill malignant cells. In this research, ZnTPP-IL was used as a photosensitizer with white light as a possible source of treatment of NIH 3T3 fibroblast and A549 lung cancer cell lines, with preliminary DNA testing on MYC-22 and G-quadruplex samples. ZnTPP-IL was synthesized by the reaction of the porphyrin ZnTPPC with isoleucinol. The new porphyrin was then purified by column chromatography using Sephadex LH-20 and G-50. ZnTPP-IL was characterized through NMR, IR, UV-vis, and fluorescence spectroscopies. The purity of the …


The Mental Health And Developmental Effects Of Bisphenol-A, Maryann Rettig Apr 2024

The Mental Health And Developmental Effects Of Bisphenol-A, Maryann Rettig

Scholars Day Conference

My directed study focuses on the mental health and developmental effects of bisphenol-A (BPA) on individuals in close contact with the chemical product. BPA is an organic chemical produced in large quantities that is used in the production of many polycarbonate plastics, feminine hygiene products, and epoxy resins that coat some metal food cans. Because of it being everywhere, BPA often leaches dermally and orally into the human body. The physical effects of BPA have been known and observed for years. However, its mental health effects specifically are not as commonly known. Therefore, in my directed study I would be …


An Analysis Of Pollution In Liverpool, Uk, Luke W. Lawson Apr 2024

An Analysis Of Pollution In Liverpool, Uk, Luke W. Lawson

Scholars Day Conference

Within this experiment the different levels of pollution in areas around Liverpool were tested. These areas were Stanley Park, Lunt Meadows, and Woolton Road. At Stanley Park one of two transects had a geochemical analysis as well as magnetic measurements run to investigate source attribution within the urban environment resulting in data showing high variability in soil properties among the transect. With data supporting evidence of diamagnetic, paramagnetic, and ferromagnetic properties in soil along the same transect. At Lunt Meadows, through the use of XRF for soil samples and nitrate and phosphate testing for water samples, it was found that …


Tree Canopy Cover Influences Habitat Use Of Breeding Birds At Jack Mountain Wildlife Management Area, Kaleigh Thomas Apr 2024

Tree Canopy Cover Influences Habitat Use Of Breeding Birds At Jack Mountain Wildlife Management Area, Kaleigh Thomas

Scholars Day Conference

Across the United States, bird populations have declined due to habitat loss. To better understand habitat use by birds, researchers observed populations at Jack Mountain Wildlife Management Area in southwest Arkansas. Students at Ouachita Baptist University surveyed 94 point count locations to estimate species diversity (total number of species observed) and species abundance (total number of individuals observed). At each point, students recorded the percentage of tree canopy cover, ground cover, midstory cover, and shrub cover. These variables were used as explanatory variables in multiple regression analyses to determine which variables were influential in explaining variation in species diversity and …


The Effects Of A Four Week Acl-Prevention Program On The Mccall Hamstring Test In High School Female Volleyball Athletes, Meredith West, Kasha Baker, Becca Beard Apr 2024

The Effects Of A Four Week Acl-Prevention Program On The Mccall Hamstring Test In High School Female Volleyball Athletes, Meredith West, Kasha Baker, Becca Beard

Scholars Day Conference

Anterior Cruciate ligament (ACL) injuries are prevalent due to athletes participating in sports involving quick movements, sudden stops, and jump-landing movements. An ACL injury happens by a tear at the ligament. Multiple studies have found that women have a higher risk of ACL injuries than men due to neuromuscular and biomechanical factors. Specifically, during jump landing the following risk factors were found decreased knee and hip flexion, increased quadriceps dominance vs. hamstring muscles being used, and valgus knee compared to men. Women rely more on their quadriceps strength more than their hamstring strength which causes anterior tibial stress which can …


Balance Inefficiencies In Athletes With Lower Extremity Surgeries, Susannah Arnn, Gannon Connelley, Terrence Murray Apr 2024

Balance Inefficiencies In Athletes With Lower Extremity Surgeries, Susannah Arnn, Gannon Connelley, Terrence Murray

Scholars Day Conference

The purpose of this study is to observe the initial difference in the balance of athletes with and without lower extremity surgeries; and determine whether a simple balance intervention is impactful. After four weeks of this program, we will determine if the volunteers’ balance has remained the same, progressed, or declined and if the athlete has overcompensated in the injured extremity.


Explosive Muscular Power Correlation With Reaction Time Of D2 Collegiate Runners And The Effects Of Reaction Time Intervention, Megan Monk, Keelan Williams Apr 2024

Explosive Muscular Power Correlation With Reaction Time Of D2 Collegiate Runners And The Effects Of Reaction Time Intervention, Megan Monk, Keelan Williams

Scholars Day Conference

The skill of running involves much more than meets the eye. Running requires explosive muscular power and proper reaction time. This research will discuss the explosive power and reaction time of D2 collegiate runners and document the development of the intervention program. This study spans for approximately 4 weeks, with the volunteer population split into two groups: a control and an intervention group. The intervention group is expected to see improvements in both explosive power and reaction time due to the intervention program. Data will be collected from both groups via Force Plates and Blaze Pods technology pre and post …


An Analysis Of Pollution In Liverpool, Uk, Luke W. Lawson Apr 2024

An Analysis Of Pollution In Liverpool, Uk, Luke W. Lawson

Honors Theses

Within this experiment the different levels of pollution in areas around Liverpool were tested. These areas were Stanley Park, Lunt Meadows, and Woolton Road. At Stanley Park one of two transects had a geochemical analysis as well as magnetic measurements run to investigate source attribution within the urban environment resulting in data showing high variability in soil properties among the transect. With data supporting evidence of diamagnetic, paramagnetic, and ferromagnetic properties in soil along the same transect. At Lunt Meadows, through the use of XRF for soil samples and nitrate and phosphate testing for water samples, it was found that …


The Development Of A New Water-Soluble Zinc Porphyrin, Zntpp--5ap, For Photodynamic Therapy, Kaylee Johnson Apr 2024

The Development Of A New Water-Soluble Zinc Porphyrin, Zntpp--5ap, For Photodynamic Therapy, Kaylee Johnson

Honors Theses

This research focuses on synthesizing a new water-soluble porphyrin with a zinc core that can be used as a photosensitizing agent in photodynamic therapy. Photodynamic therapy is a process in which light is used to activate a photosensitizer to cause cell death. For this study, the porphyrin was synthesized by adding 5-amino-1-pentanol to the ZnTPPC. Once the porphyrin was synthesized it was purified using column chromatography through Sephadex LH-20 and G-50. The structure of the purified ZnTPP-5AP was then analyzed using nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy (NMR), infrared spectroscopy (IR), and ultraviolet-visible spectroscopy (UV-vis). Purity of the ZnTPP-5AP was tested using …


Scholars Day 2024 Program Of Events, Carl Goodson Honors Program Apr 2024

Scholars Day 2024 Program Of Events, Carl Goodson Honors Program

Scholars Day

This is the program of events for the 2023 Scholars Day Conference, where undergraduates across disciplines present their scholarly and creative works.


Developing Zntpp-4ab As A Potential Photodynamic Therapy Agent, Kennedy Johnson Apr 2024

Developing Zntpp-4ab As A Potential Photodynamic Therapy Agent, Kennedy Johnson

Honors Theses

Photodynamic therapy is a fairly new technique used in cancer treatment involving the use of a photosensitizer and light exposure to kill malignant cells. In this research, the use of ZnTPP-4AB as a photosensitizer and red light as a source of radiant light energy was explored in terms of cytotoxicity in the A549 lung cancer cell line. ZnTPP-4AB was synthesized by replacing the carbonyl functional groups on the ZnTPPC porphyrin with 4-amino-1-butanol. Following synthesis, the new porphyrin was purified through the use of Sephadex LH-20 and G-50 in column chromatography in order to remove impurities. To confirm the identity and …


Synthesis Of Zntpp-Il As A Potential Photodynamic Therapy Agent, Addison White Apr 2024

Synthesis Of Zntpp-Il As A Potential Photodynamic Therapy Agent, Addison White

Honors Theses

Photodynamic Therapy is a new technique used in cancer treatment involving the use of a photosensitizer—a porphyrin—and light exposure to kill malignant cells. In this research, ZnTPP-IL was used as a photosensitizer with white light as a possible source of treatment of NIH 3T3 fibroblast and A549 lung cancer cell lines, with preliminary DNA testing on MYC-22 and G-quadruplex samples. ZnTPP-IL was synthesized by the reaction of the porphyrin ZnTPPC with isoleucinol. The new porphyrin was then purified by column chromatography using Sephadex LH-20 and G-50. ZnTPP-IL was characterized through NMR, IR, UV-vis, and fluorescence spectroscopies. The purity of the …


Tree Canopy Cover Influences Habitat Use Of Breeding Birds At Jack Mountain Wildlife Management Area, Kaleigh Thomas Apr 2024

Tree Canopy Cover Influences Habitat Use Of Breeding Birds At Jack Mountain Wildlife Management Area, Kaleigh Thomas

Honors Theses

Across the United States, bird populations have declined due to habitat loss. To better understand habitat use by birds, researchers observed populations at Jack Mountain Wildlife Management Area in southwest Arkansas. Students at Ouachita Baptist University surveyed 94 point count locations to estimate species diversity (total number of species observed) and species abundance (total number of individuals observed). At each point, students recorded the percentage of tree canopy cover, ground cover, midstory cover, and shrub cover. These variables were used as explanatory variables in multiple regression analyses to determine which variables were influential in explaining variation in species diversity and …


4-Week Neuromuscular Training Program On Peak External Power In The Back Squat In Division Ii Collegiate Athletes, Noah Smith Apr 2024

4-Week Neuromuscular Training Program On Peak External Power In The Back Squat In Division Ii Collegiate Athletes, Noah Smith

Honors Theses

Neuromuscular training has been shown to have many benefits to athletes ranging from increases in performance to decrease in injury risk by decreasing knee valgus in some athletes. The purpose of this study is to determine if neuromuscular training can influence power in athletes. It is hypothesized that with the intervention program there will be a significant increase in power in the sample. A 4-week neuromuscular training program was implemented with resistance trained athletes (Age: 20.13±.99 yrs., n=14). This training involved balance and plyometric exercises. A pretest and posttest consisted of 2 sets of 6 repetitions of a back squat …