Digital Commons Network^™

Mis-Splicing-Derived Neoantigens And Cognate Tcrs In Splicing Factor Mutant Leukemias, Won Jun Kim, Edie I Crosse, Emma De Neef, Inaki Etxeberria, Erich Y Sabio, Eric Wang, Jan Philipp Bewersdorf, Kuan-Ting Lin, Sydney X Lu, Andrea Belleville, Nina Fox, Cynthia Castro, Pu Zhang, Takeshi Fujino, Jennifer Lewis, Jahan Rahman, Beatrice Zhang, Jacob H Winick, Alexander M Lewis, Robert F Stanley, Susan Dewolf, Brigita Meškauskaitė Urben, Meril Takizawa, Tobias Krause, Henrik Molina, Ronan Chaligne, Priya Koppikar, Jeffrey Molldrem, Mathieu Gigoux, Taha Merghoub, Anthony Daniyan, Smita S Chandran, Benjamin D Greenbaum, Christopher A Klebanoff, Robert K Bradley, Omar Abdel-Wahab

Faculty, Staff and Student Publications

Mutations in RNA splicing factors are prevalent across cancers and generate recurrently mis-spliced mRNA isoforms. Here we identified a series of bona fide neoantigens translated from highly stereotyped splicing alterations promoted by neomorphic, leukemia-associated somatic splicing machinery mutations. We utilized feature-barcoded peptide-MHC dextramers to isolate neoantigen-reactive T cell receptors (TCRs) from healthy donors, patients with active myeloid malignancy, and following curative allogeneic stem cell transplant. Neoantigen-reactive CD8+ T cells were present in the blood of patients with active cancer and had a distinct phenotype from virus-reactive T cells with evidence of impaired cytotoxic function. T cells engineered with TCRs recognizing …

In Vitro Regeneration Potential Of Pistacia Integerrima And Pistacia Khinjuk Rootstocks: A Modeling Approach For Optimal Medium Formulation, Heydem Eki̇nci̇, Beki̇r Erol Ak

Turkish Journal of Agriculture and Forestry

Micropropagation involves the development of whole plants from small meristematic tissues by culturing them in vitro under aseptic conditions on a nutrient medium. However, identifying a single nutrient medium suitable for propagating Pistacia, a recalcitrant species, remains challenging. While some species exhibit good growth on Murashige and Skoog (MS) medium, Pistacia species generally yield insufficient results. To address this, a five-dimensional experimental design was developed using Design- Expert software (Stat-Ease Inc., Minneapolis, MN, USA). Thirty-three experimental databases were generated by the software using the modified I-optimal criterion. MS medium served as the control treatment. A response surface model (RSM) employing …

Comprehensive Characterization Of Purified Naringinase: Effect On Naringin Content, Antioxidant Activity, Phenolic Profile, And Grapefruit Juice Quality, Arzu İmece, Memnune Şengül, Bülent Çeti̇n, Ömer İrfan Küfrevi̇oğlu, Arzu Öztürk Kesebi̇r

Turkish Journal of Agriculture and Forestry

Bitterness arising from naringin is a problem in citrus juices, especially grapefruit juice, in terms of consumer preference. Naringinase enzyme is used to eliminate the bitterness. In this study, naringinase was extracellularly extracted, isolated, and characterized from an Aspergillus niger strain in different media. The extracted enzyme was added to grapefruit juice at different concentrations (0.1%, 0.5%, 1%) (0.078, 0.39 and 0.78 EU) and stored at different temperatures (25, 35, and 45 °C) for 5 h. At the end of the first and fifth h, the amount of naringin, physicochemical properties, phenolic profiles, and antioxidant activities of the grapefruit juice …

Green Biosynthesis Of Cobalt Oxide Nanoparticles Using Saccharum Munja Leaf Extract As A Catalyst For Callus Induction In Carnation (Dianthus Caryophyllus L.) Plants, Ishtiaq Ahmad, Sameed Arshad Chaudhry, Maryam Maryam, Aysha Arif Chahel, Riaz Ahmad, Mehmet Ramazan Bozhüyük, İbrahi̇m Bozkurt, Magda Abdel-Rahman, Konstantin Korolev

Turkish Journal of Agriculture and Forestry

The common name of a wild grass native to Pakistan with both edible and medicinal properties is Saccharum munja Roxb. (S. munja). Prior research has investigated various plant species for the green biosynthesis of nanoparticles to circumvent issues related to their physical and chemical production. This study presents the first evidence of synthesizing cobalt oxide nanoparticles (Co3O4NPs) using S. munja leaf extract (SMLE) as both a reducing and a capping agent. This study investigated their ability to induce in vitro callus formation in Dianthus caryophyllus L. (carnation). In this study, Co3O4NPs were synthesized using varying quantities of SMLE to achieve …

In Vivo Emergence And Seedling Growth Of Ornamental Pepper Seeds Under Diatomaceous Earth Treatments, Deni̇z Hazar

Turkish Journal of Agriculture and Forestry

Propagation by seeds is very useful in ornamental horticulture, especially for flowering plant production. Seed germination and seedling growth are the most sensitive plant developmental stages and, in nurseries, are under the influence of many biotic and abiotic stress factors. Diatomaceous earth is made from the fossilized remains of tiny aquatic organisms called diatoms, and diatomaceous earth as supplemental Si has been shown to be beneficial for plant growth, flowering, and nutrient content under both well-watered and water-stressed conditions. This study aimed to determine the effects of different methods and doses of Si-containing diatomite on in vivo seed emergence and …

A Review Of Plant–Microbe Interactions In The Rhizosphere And The Role Of Root Exudates In Microbiome Engineering, Anagha Wankhade, Emma Wilkinson, David W. Britt, Amita Kaundal

Biological Engineering Student Research

Microbial interactions within the rhizosphere are fundamental to plant health, influencing nutrient availability, stress tolerance, and pathogen resistance. Beneficial microbes, such as plant growth-promoting microbes (PGPMs), including bacteria and mycorrhizal fungi, enhance plant resilience through mechanisms like nutrient solubilization, phytohormone production, and pathogen suppression via antimicrobial compounds and siderophores. Root exudates, composed of sugars, organic acids, and secondary metabolites, act as chemoattractants that shape the rhizosphere microbiome by recruiting beneficial microbes. Microbial metabolites can, in turn, modulate plant physiology and exudate profiles, thereby reinforcing mutualistic interactions. Stress conditions alter exudate composition, enabling plants to attract specific microbes that aid in …

Synthesis Of Carboxymethyl Cellulose From Nypa Fruticans For Coating Metformin On Zn-Based Metal-Organic Framework Nanohybrid As A Bionanocomposite Drug Delivery System, Delviani Delviani, Viola Giary Rizkillah Maharani, Putri Nur Shadrina, Tri Warni, Regina Wan Azizah, Indra Lasmana Tarigan, Madyawati Latief

Makara Journal of Science

Diabetes is a common and rapidly spreading disease that affects 6.6% of the world’s population. Metformin hydrochloride (HCl) is an effective oral pharmacological treatment for type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) patients because of its capability to reduce glucose levels and the risk of hypoglycaemia. However, gastrointestinal sensitivities to this drug can cause diarrhoea, nausea, vomiting and stomach ache. An alternative is controlled release technology by coating metformin with carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC) and zinc-metal-organic framework (Zn-MOF) through the encapsulation method. Therefore, this study aimed to coat metformin formulations using CMC in a Zn-MOF to control release into the body and minimise …

Isolation And Selection Of Bacillus Spp. As Candidate Probiotics For Use In Chickens, Adilah Adawiah, Komang Gede Wiryawan, Anja Meryandini

Makara Journal of Science

The growth rate of chickens can be improved by using probiotics as alternatives to antibiotics. Bacillus spp. as probiotics are particularly beneficial due to ability to form spores, which remain stable as commercial products over extended periods. This study aimed to isolate and select Bacillus spp. from Jasinga soil as probiotic candidates for chickens. A total of 15 isolates obtained of these, 12 were identified as Bacillus spp based on microscopic observations and screening test including ascertaining hemolysis, protease, amylase, and cellulase activities. Only six isolates exhibited gamma hemolysis and the ability to hydrolyze proteins, starch, and cellulose. Isolates BTJ1.1, …

Antiinflammatory Mechanisms Of Barley-Based Functional Foods Beyond Diabetes Management, Hafiz Ghulam Muhu Din Ahmed, Adnan Noor Shah, Muhammad Ahtasham Mushtaq, Xiaomeng Yang, Jiazhen Yang, Xia Li, Li’E Yang, Xiaoying Pu, Yawen Zeng

Turkish Journal of Agriculture and Forestry

This review article investigated the antiinflammatory properties of barley, emphasizing its benefits beyond diabetes management. Barley, historically valued for its nutritional and medicinal properties, is rich in bioactive compounds such as beta-glucans, phenolic acids, and flavonoids. These compounds are known for their significant antioxidant and antiinflammatory activities. This study highlights the multifaceted mechanisms through which barley reduces systemic inflammation, including the enhancement of gut microbiota composition, the production of beneficial short-chain fatty acids, and the modulation of immune responses. Beta-glucans in barley lower cholesterol, and regulate glucose levels, while phenolic acids and flavonoids inhibit proinflammatory enzymes and cytokines, thereby reducing …

Effects Of Commiphora Myrrha Resin Extract/Nanosilver On Immune Cells, Pathogen, And Breast/Colon Cancer Cell Line Growth, Mohammad Y. Alshahrani, Essam H. Ibrahim, Abeer S. Alahmari, Mona Kilany, Ramadan Taha, Haitham I. El-Mekkawy, Amr Ahmed El-Arabey, Ahmed Ezzat Ahmed

Turkish Journal of Agriculture and Forestry

Commiphora myrrha grows in various places of the world and is used for many purposes. The objectives of this study were to examine the biological influences of C. myrrha resin extract (MRE) alone or with its biogenic nanosilver on microbial, immune, and cancer cell growth. C. myrrha resin was boiled to prepare the MRE. Functional groups in the MRE were explored using Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). MRE was used to synthesize nanosilver that was characterized using an ultraviolet-visible (UV-Vis)-spectrophotometer and X-ray diffraction. In vivo experiments included the untreated group (G1) and MRE-orally treated group (G2). Cancer cell lines, HCT-116 (colon) …

A Study On Combined Effect Of Monoterpenoid Essential Oils And Polyphenols From Grape Pomace On Selected Pathogenic And Probiotic Bacteria Strains, Haona Bao, Cosmas Mwendwa Muasya, Fur-Chi Chen, Agnes Kilonzo-Nthenge, Ying Wu

Food and Animal Sciences Faculty Research

In the current study, the combined effects of essential oils (EOs) and polyphenols (PPs) were investigated as potential antibiotic alternatives. Thymol and carvacrol at a ratio of 1:1 was used as the EO due to their well-proven synergistic antimicrobial effect. The PPs were an extracted and freeze-dried product from grape pomace. The treatment solutions were prepared at the EO to PP ratios of 0:10, 3:7, 5:5, 7:3, and 10:0, at total concentrations ranging from 0 to 1000 ppm. The minimum inhibition concentrations were examined on the pathogenic bacteria strains, namely Escherichia coli O157:H7, Salmonella typhimurium, and Enterococcus cloacae, and a …

The Carsr Two-Component System Directly Controls Radd Expression As A Global Regulator That Senses Bacterial Coaggregation In Fusobacterium Nucleatum, Bibek G C, Chenggang Wu

Faculty, Staff and Student Publications

Two-component systems (TCS) enable bacteria to sense and respond to environmental signals, facilitating rapid adaptation. Fusobacterium nucleatum, a key oral pathobiont, employs the CarSR TCS to modulate coaggregation with various gram-positive partners by regulating the expression of radD, encoding a surface adhesion protein, as revealed by RNA-Seq analysis. However, the direct regulation of the radD-containing operon (radABCD) by the response regulator CarR, the broader CarR regulon, and the signals sensed by this system remain unclear. In this study, chromatin immunoprecipitation followed by high-throughput DNA sequencing (ChIP-seq) identified approximately 161 CarR-enriched loci across the genome and …

Classification Of Human Trust In Ai Using Brain Activity Data, Danushka Bandara, Ruhuan Liao, Fatima Chowdhury, Leslie Abbott

Northeast Journal of Complex Systems (NEJCS)

Trust plays a crucial role in human-computer interaction, particularly in scenarios involving artificial intelligence (AI) systems. This study explores the feasibility of using functional near-infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS) data to classify trust levels in human-AI interaction scenarios. A total of 18 participants completed an image classification task with an AI team member while their hemodynamic responses were recorded using fNIRS. Preprocessing of fNIRS data involved motion artifact removal, filtering, and normalization. Exploratory analysis identified significant associations between hemodynamic responses in the prefrontal cortex and trust levels. An across-subject binary trust classification model was developed using machine learning techniques, achieving an F1 …

Effect Of Different Nutrient Media On Mycelial Growth Of Different Species Of Medicinal Mushroom, Luna Ahmad, Fahed Albiski, Ramzi Murshed, Hijazi Mando, Bssam Al Okla

Journal of the Arab American University مجلة الجامعة العربية الامريكية للبحوث

The research was carried out in 2022 in the National Commission for Biotechnology (NCBT). The aim is studying the mycelium growth of 5 commercial strains of four medicinal mushroom: Ganoderma lucidum (G.l), Agaricus blazei (A.b), Hericium erianaceum (H.e) and Lentinus edodes (Tow strains: strain M3782 (L.e1) and strain straw (L.e2)), sourced of Aloha company of USA on four nutrient growth media: Potato Dextrose Agar (PDA), Malt extract Agar (MEA), Sabouroud Dextrose Agar (SDA) and Corn meal agar (CMA). The following mycelium growth parameters were studied: mycelium height (H), mycelium diameter (D), mycelium density (G), growth rate (GR) and growth coefficient …

Modulation Of Pulmonary Epithelial Paracellular Permeability By Pneumolysin From Streptococcus Pneumoniae, Alexandra S. Tamayo Moreira

Biology Theses

Pneumolysin (PLY), a key virulence factor of Streptococcus pneumoniae (S. pneumoniae), disrupts airway epithelial barriers, yet its cellular and molecular mechanisms remain poorly understood. We aim to elucidate recombinant pneumolysin (rPLY)’s effects on Calu-3 bronchial epithelial barrier integrity and underlying pathways. This study investigates the effects of non-lytic and lytic PLY concentrations (5, 15, 30 µg/mL) to test the hypothesis that PLY increases epithelial paracellular permeability by affecting the anatomy and physiology of epithelial tight junctions. To address the hypothesis that PLY increases paracellular permeability through disruption of tight junction integrity in Calu-3 cells in a time- and dose-dependent …

Utah Surface Irrigation Water Optimization Opportunities And Barriers, Matt Yost, Clara Anderson, Burdette Barker, Justin Wyatt Clawson, Kalen Taylor, Michael Pace

All Current Publications

Surface irrigation systems are still the predominant system used in some parts of Utah, representing nearly half of the irrigated area in the state and the region. Understanding the barriers to water optimization and opportunities for improvement in surface irrigation systems will help ensure their viability. This article presents the results of a survey of surface irrigators in Utah.

Resveratrol And Il-6 Modulation Of Cxcl1 Expression And Viability In Human Breast Cancer Cell Lines, Entkhab M. A. Alanisi, Aida H. Alobaidi, Khalid Alyodawi

AUIQ Complementary Biological System

This study aims to investigate, through in vitro methods, the molecular, immunofluorescent, and immunohistochemical effects of resveratrol and IL-6 on CXCL1 gene/protein expression in human breast cancer cells (MCF-7). MCF-7 and MCF-10A cell lines were cultured and divided into four groups: control, IL-6-treated, resveratrol-treated, and a combination-treated group. CXCL1 gene expression was assessed by real-time PCR (RT-PCR), while CXCL1 protein levels were analyzed using immunofluorescence and immunohistochemistry. Cell viability was quantified by MTS assay using ELISA. CXCL1 gene/protein was overexpressed in MCF-7 cells, especially in the IL-6-treated group, but reduced in both resveratrol and combination-treated groups. MTS assay showed increased …

The Enigmatic Samuel Aughey: Nebraska’S Pastor Naturalist, Hugh H. Genoways, Margaret R. Bolick, Mary Anne Andrei

Zea E-Books Collection

Samuel Aughey at age 39 became the first Professor of Natural Science at the new University of Nebraska in Lincoln, serving from 1871 to 1883. He was an ordained pastor of the Evangelical Lutheran Church, with an addendum degree from Pennsylvania College (now Gettysburg College) in 1856 and an A.M. degree two years later. His early pastoral work was in Pennsylvania, but in 1864 he became a home missionary to a church in Dakota City, Nebraska. Aughey’s career at the university was marked with successes and honors, but also criticism and questions about his basic knowledge of the sciences. While …

Why Real Impact Stories Of Forest-Dependent Communities Are Essential In Carbon Marketing, Andrew Mwape

School of Natural Resources: Faculty Publications

As the global carbon market matures, the pressure on companies and project developers to prove the integrity and social value of their carbon offset initiatives has never been greater. At the heart of this growing scrutiny lies a key opportunity: to move beyond metrics and tell authentic, human-centered stories that reflect the real impact of carbon projects; especially those rooted in forest landscapes.

Utilization Of Bixin-Loaded Polycaprolactone Nanoparticles To Ameliorate E-Cigarette-Induced Damage To Human Bronchial Epithelial Cells, Sophia R. Claymore

USF Tampa Graduate Theses and Dissertations

Electronic cigarettes (e-cigs) have increased in popularity and usage over the last few decades. E-cigs are generally composed of a liquid containing nicotine flavoring chemicals, a battery, a vaporization chamber, and a coil that heats the liquid upon inhalation of the mouthpiece. E-cigs were initially introduced as a healthy alternative to cigarette smoking. However, recent research has demonstrated that e-cigs elicit comparable cytotoxic and dangerous effects to conventional cigarettes. Bixin has been introduced in recent research as a candidate for therapeutic applications due to its innate anticancer, antioxidative, and anti-inflammatory characteristics. Nanoparticles (NPs) have emerged over the past few decades …

Protocol To Analyze Trna And Rrna Processing Using Biotin-Labeled Probes, Sseu-Pei Hwang, Katherine Barondeau, Catherine Denicourt

Faculty, Staff and Student Publications

Mature tRNAs and rRNAs are derived from larger precursor transcripts through intricate endo- and exonuclease processing steps. Here, we present a protocol to analyze rRNA and tRNA processing using total RNA extracted from human cells. We describe steps for separating RNA by denaturing electrophoresis, followed by northern blotting. We detail procedures for detecting pre-rRNA intermediates or specific tRNA species using biotin-labeled probes imaged via fluorescence or chemiluminescence. This non-radioactive, high-sensitivity assay enables the investigation of rRNA and tRNA expression dynamics. For complete details on the use and execution of this protocol, please refer to Hwang et al.

Protocol For Establishing Genetically Engineered Murine Lung Organoids Mimicking Cell Plasticity And Regeneration, Bongjun Kim, Jae-Il Park

Faculty, Staff and Student Publications

Lung endothelial cells (LuECs) play crucial roles in lung regeneration and support lung organoids (LOs). However, detailed guidelines for LO culture using LuECs have not been reported yet. Here, we present an efficient protocol for generating and culturing murine LOs that mimic regeneration. We describe steps for the isolation of LuECs and lung epithelial cells, followed by LO culture. We also describe how to establish genetically engineered LOs using viral transduction. For complete details on the use and execution of this protocol, please refer to Kim et al.

Crop Response To Simulated Diflufenican Carryover And Sprayer Contamination With A Diflufenican Premixture, Matthew C. Wooland, Jason K. Norseworthy, L. Tom Barber, Trenton L. Roberts, Benjamin C. Trash, Leonard B. Piveta, Amar S. Godar

Crop, Soil and Environmental Sciences Faculty Publications and Presentations

Palmer amaranth [Amaranthus palmeri (S.) Wats] has evolved resistance to nine sites of action (SOAs) globally, leaving producers searching for effective herbicide options. Bayer CropScience has announced intentions to launch a series of Convintro (TM) brand herbicides, one of which will be a premixture including diflufenican, metribuzin, and flufenacet for preemergence use in soybean [Glycine max (L.) Merr]. Diflufenican is a WSSA group 12 herbicide that would add a new SOA for soybean producers. With the anticipated launch of the premixture, research is needed to evaluate the potential for diflufenican carryover or tank contamination from a diflufenican premixture to injure …

Predicting Single-Leg Eccentric Hamstrings Strength In Aging Athletes Using Diagnostic Ultrasound- And Survey-Derived Parameters, Lee J. Hinkle

Theses and Dissertations

Introduction: Eccentric hamstring strength declines with age and contributes to mobility limitations. Although Nordbord testing quantifies eccentric strength, few studies have examined it in older adults, and none have predicted strength performance on this test using ultrasound or survey- based measures. Methods: We recruited 122 senior athletes (60 female) at the 2024 Huntsman World Senior Games. Ultrasound-derived cross-sectional area (CSA), echogenicity, and subcutaneous fat thickness, along with demographic and activity data, were used to predict single-leg peak force using Bayesian regression. Models were sex-stratified, and predictors were selected using leave-one-out cross-validation (LOO IC). Results: In males, CSA, age, leg side, …

The Exaggerated Blood Pressure Response To Activities Of Daily Living And Exercise Is Dependent Upon The Fitness Of People With Hypertension, Joseph D. Larsen

Theses and Dissertations

Purpose: Determine if the previously reported exaggerated systolic blood pressure response to daily activity and moderate exercise amongst hypertensive adults could be accounted for by differences in fitness. Methods: 30 normotensives adults (15 low fitness control (LFC) and 15 high fitness control (HFC)) and 15 unmedicated adults with ambulatory hypertension (HTN) participated in this study. Participants completed 24-hour ambulatory blood pressure monitoring (ABPM). Lactate Threshold (LT) and estimated ����̇O2max were determined for each participant. A week later, blood pressure was measured while participants completed 5-minute bouts of treadmill exercise at fixed absolute intensities (2.5 mph 0% and 12% grade) and …

2025 Legislative Update, J. David Aiken

Cornhusker Economics

The 2025 Nebraska state Unicameral dealt with major state budget challenges but also managed to enact four bills affecting Nebraska agriculture and holding three other bills over for possible action in the 2026 legislative session. Enacted legislation dealt with a ban on laboratory-grown meat, the merger of state natural resource and environmental agencies, amending the 2024 paid sick leave initiative, and establishing a School Financing Review Commission. Agricultural-related bills carried over to the 2026 legislative session include modifying cattle feedlot brand inspection fees, inheritance tax reductions, and modifying the 2022 minimum wage initiative.

Computational Advances For Single-Cell Proteomics, Hannah Boekweg

Theses and Dissertations

The overarching goal of biologists is to characterize biological systems. When the workings of a system are understood, they can be fixed, broken, preserved, mimicked, and even replicated. The field of proteomics seeks to characterize systems through the lens of proteins. Proteins are referred to as the 'workhorse' of the cell to illustrate that they perform most functional tasks within the cell. These tasks are highly varied, including enzymatic activity, structural support, transport, storage, cell signaling, gene regulation, immune response, and more. Proteomics has been instrumental in new biological discoveries by characterizing the functional state of cells. A new area …

Tomato Seedling Performance In Five Commercial Organic Growing Media With And Without Supplemental Fertilizer, Elizabeth Maynard, Wenjing Guan, Petrus Langenhoven, Lori A. Hoagland

Department of Horticulture & Landscape Architecture Faculty Publications

Commercially available growing media permitted for use in certified organic production differ substantially in quantity and availability of essential macronutrients. Nutrient availability from fertilizers applied during production will depend on chemical, biological, and physical characteristics of both media and fertilizers; therefore, best practices for fertilizing seedlings are likely to differ. This study evaluated tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.) emergence, seedling growth, and posttransplant performance when grown in five organic growing media with and without supplemental fertilizer during transplant production in three diverse locations. A 5N–0.88P–3.32K–3Ca (5–2–4) dry fertilizer was tested in all media, and a liquid 3N–0.88P–2.49K (3–2–3) fertilizer was …

Science Communication Through Cool Critters: An Informal Learning Experience For Youth, Jamila L. Bajelan, Mary J. Harner

Transactions of the Nebraska Academy of Sciences and Affiliated Societies

There are numerous ways to communicate science and assess the effectiveness of that communication. One approach focuses on increasing awareness, enjoyment, interest, opinion, and/or understanding of science. For this study, we created an informal learning experience for youth to communicate the science of animals in Nebraska. We developed Cool Critters, a weeklong summer camp for elementary school-aged students, to increase participants' enjoyment, interest, and opinion of Nebraska animals. In 2023, Cool Critters was led in three educational settings in central Nebraska and reached sixty-six participants. Surveys were used to determine the camp's success in effective science communication and whether …

Education Improves Perceived Control But Not Risk Identification In Adolescents Regarding Fentanyl, Christine Bakos-Block, Francine R Vega, Marylou Cardenas-Turanzas, Bhanumathi Gopal, Tiffany Champagne-Langabeer

Faculty, Staff and Student Publications

Background/objectives: In 2022, 2.2 million adolescents were diagnosed with substance use disorders, including 265,000 with opioid use disorder. The National Survey on Drug Use and Health revealed that 130,000 adolescents misused prescription pain medications, often obtaining them from friends or relatives. This age group perceives weekly heroin use as less risky than those younger or older.

Methods: A questionnaire was developed for 7th to 12th graders in a rural Texas school district as part of a fentanyl awareness curriculum. The questionnaire included Likert scale, multiple choice, and yes/no questions. The participants were categorized into younger (grades 7th and 8th) and …