Digital Commons Network^™

Analysis Of Abca3 Variants Associated With Hypertension, Elaine Vanterpool, Ashlee Simpson

Student Posters

Hypertension is abnormally high blood pressure in the arteries, the blood vessels that carry blood from the heart to the rest of the body. Many individuals do not know they have the condition. However, it is a major risk factor for a multitude of health problems. The heart and arteries having to work harder than normal thickens the muscles of the heart and arteries and hardens and damages artery walls. Flow of blood and oxygen is also reduced which directly results in heart disease. This study focuses on how the ABCA3 gene is associated with hypertension. The membrane-associated protein encoded …

Mutations In The Mmp20 Gene In Association With Amelogenesis Imperfecta, Elaine Vanterpool, Alicia Myrie

Student Posters

Amelogenesis Imperfecta or AI is a group of disorders that affect enamel formation and result in enamel abnormalities. One of the genes associated with these disorders is the MMP20 gene, which has instructions encoding for the protein enamelysin. Enamelysin, a predominant amelogenin-processing enzyme coded by MMP20 forms enamel by cleaving other proteins involved in its formation, making them easier to remove once they are no longer needed. These include: Amelogenin, Ameloblastin, and enamelin. Amelogenin makes up most of the enamel's extracellular matrix. Amelobastin deals with adhesion and cell signaling, along with aiding in structure. Enamelin is the largest protein in …

Chek2 In Cancer Suppression: Investigating Genetic Variants And Their Impact, Elaine Vanterpool, Nicevarlyn Philippe

Student Posters

Cancer develops when cells grow uncontrollably, often due to mutations in genes that maintain genome stability. One such gene is CHEK2 (Checkpoint Kinase 2), a tumor suppressor activated in response to DNA damage. CHEK2 halts the cell cycle to allow for DNA repair, stabilizes TP53, and phosphorylates BRCA1 , all of which help prevent the spread of mutations. CHEK2 belongs to the CDS1 family of serine/threonine kinases and contains an FHA domain that facilitates interaction with other DNA damage response proteins. Upon activation, CHEK2 inhibits CDC25C phosphatase, preventing premature mitosis, and contributes to G1 arrest through p53 stabilization. Itsrole in …

Eed Gene Variants And Irritable Bowel Syndrome: A Genetic Approach To Understanding Ibs, Elaine Vanterpool, Ted Howard

Student Posters

Irritable Bowel Syndrome is a disease associated with the gastrointestinal tract that can cause abdominal discomfort, bloating, and alterations in the digestive tract. Its etiology remains complex, involving both genetic and environmental factors. Recent studies suggest that genetic variations may contribute to the pathogenesis of IBS. One such gene, the EED (Embryonic Ectoderm Development) gene, has been implicated in regulating various biological processes, including gene expression, cellular development, and gastrointestinal functions. In this research, we explore the potential relationship between the EED gene and IBS, with a focus on the variation rs798256, documented in the ClinVar database. We examine how …

An Analysis Of Pon1 Variants Associated With Cardiovascular Disease (Cvd), Elaine Vanterpool, Adaiah Murray

Student Posters

The PON1 gene encodes for paraoxonase 1, an enzyme that plays a crucial role in the breakdown of organophosphates and the prevention of oxidative damage to lipids, particularly those in low-density lipoprotein (LDL). PON1 is primarily associated with high-density lipoprotein (HDL), often called "good cholesterol," and is involved in antioxidant defense mechanisms. Cardiovascular Disease (CVD): The relationship between PON1 and cardiovascular disease has been a subject of considerable research. Variations in the PON1 gene and its product, paraoxonase 1, are important in modulating the risk of cardiovascular disease. The gene’s polymorphisms and their impact on enzyme activity may influence individual …

The Analysis Of Thra Variants In Hypothyroidism, Elaine Vanterpool, Anaiah Mills

Student Posters

Hypothyroidism is a chronic disease that lacks the production of thyroid hormones. If this disease is not treated with the proper care, it can lead to some serious health effects, or even become fatal. In hypothyroidism levels of thyroid hormones are low. The thyroid gland is a very pivotal part of the endocrine system located at the front of The protein encoded by this gene is the nuclear hormone receptor triiodothyronine. The consequences of untreated or inadequately treated hypothyroidism include infertility, cardiovascular disease, and neurological and musculoskeletal symptoms. Environmental iodine deficiency is the most common cause of thyroid disorders, including …

The Analysis Of The Comt Gene Contribution To Schizophrenia, Elaine Vanterpool, Caelyn Mukorombindo

Student Posters

The COMT gene, also known as the catechol-O-methyltransferase gene, plays a role in breaking down the neurotransmitters in the brain, like dopamine. Dopamine plays a role in behavior and mood; as a result, the COMT gene can influence traits like mental illnesses and disorders. COMT has a variation called Val158Met, where a change in the DNA sequence affects the efficiency of dopamine breakdown. Those who have the variant have lower COMT activity, which results in dopamine levels being high in the brain, which affects their ability to deal with stress and to show signs of aggressive behavior. This gene has …

Bioinformatic Analysis Of Epcam Variants Associated With Colorectal Cancer, Elaine Vanterpool, Taylor Hall

Student Posters

Colorectal cancer is the uncontrolled cell growth on the first and largest part of the intestine, the colon. Colorectal cancer, known as the “silent disease”, is easily undetected, especially in its early stages. It can be asymptomatic for years, and without the proper diagnosis, it can become fatal. Once symptoms start to appear, a patient can have rectal bleeding, fatigue, weight loss, changes in bowel habits, and more. Comprehending the pathogenesis of Colorectal cancer and enquiring about preventative measures against this disease requires awareness of the variants that play a part in this cancer. To start this study, we first …

An Analysis Of Lamb3 Variants Associated With Amelogenesis Imperfecta, Elaine Vanterpool, Aaliyah Ruddock

Student Posters

The disease researched in this study was Amelogenesis Imperfecta. Those infected may experience mild to extreme the enamel formation which results in tooth brittleness and discoloration (brown and yellow). Being an X-linked recessive inherited disease, it is more detrimental to males than that of females. Individuals with this disease are also more susceptible to dental caries caused by bacteria such as streptococcal mutans. Overtime, this bacteria can demineralize the teeth by metabolizing sugars that can produce acids. These acids can cause severe unrepairable damage to the tooth. This disease can also result in psychological issues including mental health disorders due …

Analysis Of Rest Gene Variants Associated With Gingival Fibromatosis, Elaine Vanterpool, Daniellw Mills

Student Posters

Gingival fibromatosis is a genetic disorder that affects cell proliferation of the gum tissue leading to excessive, benign growth of tissue in the mouth (1) . Like all genetic disorders this disease results from mutations in specific gene sequences responsible for proper protein expression (2). Geneticists are increasingly interested in studying the genes responsible for various diseases and the mutations that cause them (2). While significant study has been devoted to Gingival fibromatosis and the mutations that lead to it , there remains research to be done in alternate effects of various mutations in the genes responsible for the disease. …

Genetic Insights Into Glaucoma: The Impact Of Tkb1 Mutations On Glaucoma, Elaine Vanterpool, Kelli-An Kindell

Student Posters

Glaucoma is a neurodegenerative eye disorder that can cause vision loss or permanent blindness due to damage in the optic nerve. Research has helped identify various genetic variants associated with this disease, including TBK1 (TANK-binding kinase 1). TBK1encodes for an enzyme serine/threonine which plays a role in innate immunity antiviral responses. This enzyme helps the immune system fight off infections by turning on specific signals in the body like IRF3/7 and NF-kB which regulate cytokine production and inflammatory response. Beyond immunity TBK1 is involved in crucial cellular processes including autophagy, mitochondrial energy production and cellular proliferation. TBK1 was linked to …

An Analysis Of Dagla Variants Associated With Adhd, Elaine Vanterpool, Zahra Dulan

Student Posters

The human genome is largely responsible for each individual’s unique physical and physiological development. It contains thousands of genes with multiple alleles that code for proteins with various functions. Mutations in these genes have the potential to lead to the development of human diseases and disorders. Therefore, properly analyzing mutated genes is essential to understanding their potential pathogenicity in various diseases and disorders. It may also provide a basis for the development of new therapies. The DAGLA gene encodes a protein called diacylglycerol lipase alpha. This enzyme is involved in the biosynthesis of 2-arachidonoyl-glycerol, a key player in the endocannabinoid …

Analysis Of Tert Gene Associated With Melanoma, Elaine Vanterpool, Laila Prentice

Student Posters

Melanoma is a type of skin cancer that arises when melanocytes, the pigment-producing cells in the skin, begin to proliferate uncontrollably. It can develop from a preexisting mole or previously unblemished skin. Melanoma is considered one of the most aggressive forms of skin cancer, known for its rapid proliferation and resistance to treatment. This malignancy poses a significant health risk to the elderly, who may be more susceptible due to cumulative sun exposure and age-related immune system decline. There are several subtypes of melanoma, including superficial spreading melanoma, nodular melanoma, lentigo maligna melanoma, and acral melanoma. Its development is strongly …

An Analysis Of Abca3 Variants Associated With Hypertension, Elaine Vanterpool, Lisa-Faith Dieujuste

Student Posters

blood pressure in the body is too high. A medical condition that is well known to be one of the major causes of premature deaths worldwide. Affecting an estimation of 1.28 billion adults . ABCA3 is a protein that is involved in the development of hypertension. ABCA3 is part of the ATP-binding cassette transporter family. It is a multi-membrane spanning protein meaning it has to do with the transporting, signaling and structure of cells. It plays a crucial role in the regulation of pulmonary surfactant homeostasis, but its main objective is to provide instruction to make protein that is involved …

An Analysis Of Capn-10 Variants Associated With Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome, Elaine Vanterpool, Azaria Carey

Student Posters

Calpain 10 (CAPN-10): A calcium independent protein in the calpain family involved in cell structure, signaling, and metabolism. oKey Functions: Regulates sugar metabolism, energy production, and insulin release, making it crucial for metabolic health. oType 2 Diabetes: CAPN-10 was the first gene linked to T2DM in the early 2000s. oGestational Diabetes: CAPN-10 variations contribute to insulin release and pancreas function, increasing risks for both mother and child. oPolycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS): CAPN-10 changes may exacerbate PCOS-related issues like insulin resistance, weight gain, and heart disease. o Purpose: to further clarify the role of CAPN-10 mutations in PCOS and their broader …

Analysis Of Alzheimer's Associated Adam10 Mutations, Elaine Vanterpool, Addie Mciver

Student Posters

Alzheimer’s Disease (AD) is characterized by a loss of short-term memory and deterioration of the brain through a decrease in neuron connection and damage to the cerebral cortex. The main symptoms of AD are confusion and a loss of memory, reasoning, and social behavior, partially believed to be caused by neuritic plaque accumulation. This debilitating disease is associated with 28 genes and 515 variants. One of the rarer genes, ADAM10, is a cell surface protein/ protease that is part of the alpha secretase family, commonly associated with AD. These genes, present in all mammals, code for others in the ADAM …

Assessing Bioactivity Of Green Leaf Volatiles In Various Plant Systems, Fallon S. Tomlin

Senior Theses

Green leaf volatiles (GLVs) are chemical compounds essential in plant communication. Plants emit these volatiles due to abiotic and biotic stressors and, when perceived, these GLVs activate defense responses. Though GLVs play an important role in plant survival, it is still unknown where they localize, how they are perceived, and what structural factors influence perception. To elucidate these structural determinants, we tested the bioactivity of (Z)-3-fatty alcohols with four to nine carbons. Through root growth inhibition assays with tomato (Solanum peruvianum) seedlings, we found that (Z)-3-octenol and (Z)-3-nonenol were more bioactive than (Z)-3 hexenol and (Z)-3-heptenol. Thus, higher bioactivity was …

Female Beluga Behavior During Breeding Season - It's All About The Males, Alondra-Sophia Martinez, Heather Manitzas Hill, Katie Kolodziej

Posters - 2025

This poster was created for the 5th annual Research Showcase. From the poster:

The current study examined the behavior of adult female belugas during courtship/breeding.

Building Bridges Of Knowledge, Cuny Innovative Teaching Academy (Cita)

Open Educational Resources

Building Bridge of Knowledge (BBK) is a CUNY-wide faculty fellowship project, aiming to help students use generative artificial intelligence (AI) tools ethically, responsibly, and effectively. Funded by Lumina Foundation in 2024-25, the project was executed by the CUNY Innovative Teaching Academy (CITA) of the Office of Faculty Affairs at CUNY Central Office, with 25 Faculty Fellows in five disciplinary areas (Education, Health, Humanities, Social Sciences, and STEM) chosen from across CUNY’s senior and community colleges. Each disciplinary cohort was led by a CUNY faculty member with expertise in the use of AI. The final materials, described and linked in this …

A Personalized And Adaptive Distribution Classification Of Actigraphy Segments Into Sleep-Wake States, Austin G. Vandegriffe, V. A. Samaranayake, Matthew S. Thimgan

Research Data

Wearable actimeters have the potential to greatly improve our understanding sleep in natural environments and in long-term experiments. Current technologies have served the sleep community well, but they have known weaknesses that introduce errors that can compromise reliable and relevant clinical and research sleep and wakefulness profiles from these data. Newer data collection technologies, such as microelectromechanical systems (MEMS), offer opportunities to gather movement data in different forms and at higher frequencies, making new analytical methods possible and potentially advantageous.

We have developed a novel statistical algorithm, called the Wasserstein Algorithm for Classifying Sleep and Wakefulness (WACSAW), that is based …

Using Camera Stations To Investigate Occupancy Probability And Habitat Associations Of Island Spotted Skunks (Spilogale Gracilis Amphiala) On Santa Rosa And Santa Cruz Islands, Desirae Thomaier

Master's Theses

The California Channel Islands are unique in that two islands (Santa Rosa and Santa Cruz) support two endemic mesocarnivores, the island fox (Urocyon littoralis) and the island spotted skunk (Spilogale gracilis amphiala). Following the near-extinction of island foxes in the early 2000s, island spotted skunk populations increased significantly. Now that foxes have recovered, skunk captures have precipitously declined - possibly due to interspecific competition with foxes who have a similar diet but a larger body size and wider temporal niche. It has been proposed that skunks selectively use canyon bottoms and drainages with high vegetation cover and that these areas …

Ecological Restoration And Ecosystem Memory Of Wildlife Forage And Understory Diversity In A Young Pine Monoculture Plantation In Central-Interior British Columbia, Julia Claire Bizon

Aspen Bibliography

Ecological restoration has recently taken center stage in the rehabilitation of degraded forest ecosystems to improve multifunctionality, biodiversity, and wildlife habitat conservation. The research summarized herein assessed the efficacy of variable stand density thinning (200, 400, and 600 stems/ha) and artificial canopy gaps (0.2, 0.5, 1.0, 2.0 ha in size) as potential restoration treatments to enhance wildlife forage and native biodiversity in a young lodgepole pine (Pinus contorta var. latifolia Engelm. ex S. Wats.) forest in central-interior British Columbia. Field data collection was conducted from May-August, 2023 to assess the early response (1-3 years post-treatment) of the forest …

Comparative Performance Of Reciprocal Cross Hybrid Striped Bass In Three Intensive Production Systems, Bartholomew Green, Steven D. Rawles, Matthew E. Mcentire, Candis L. Ray

United States Department of Agriculture-Agricultural Research Service / University of Nebraska-Lincoln: Faculty Publications

Objective: The objective of these two studies was to quantify the comparative performances of yearling and 2- year- old reciprocal cross hybrid Striped Bass (White Bass Morone chrysops ♀ × Striped Bass M. saxatilis ♂), also called sunshine bass, and water quality in traditional and split ponds and an outdoor mixotrophic biofloc technology production system.
Methods: In study 1, two- year- old fish (247.9 g/fish) were stocked at 7,410 fish/ha (0.86 fish/m3) in ponds and 6.3 fish/m2 (7.1 fish/m3) in biofloc system tanks and grown for 151–153 d. In study 2, yearling fish (147.0 g/fish) were stocked at 7,904 fish/ha …

Adipocyte-Derived Cchamide-1, Eiger, Growth-Blocking Peptide 3, And Unpaired 2 Regulate Drosophila Melanogaster Oogenesis, Chad Simmons, Isaiah Williams, Tancia Bradshaw, Alissa R. Armstrong

Faculty Publications

In addition to energy storage, adipose tissue communication to other organs plays a key role in regulating organismal physiology. While the link between adipose tissue dysfunction and pathophysiology, including diabetes, chronic inflammation, and infertility, is clear, the molecular mechanisms that underlie these associations have not been fully described. We use Drosophila melanogaster as a model to better understand how adipose tissue communicates to the ovary. In this study, we utilized D. melanogaster’s robust genetic toolkit to examine the role of five adipokines known to control larval growth during development, CCHamide-1, CCHamide-2, eiger, Growth-blocking peptide 3, and unpaired 2 in regulating …

Training The Brain For Better Aging, Abby Martin

Honors Projects

Aging is associated with natural changes in brain function, but certain interventions can help sustain cognitive health and mitigate risks of neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s. This presentation explores the significance of brain fitness as a non-pharmacological approach to enhancing cognitive function. It covers the normal aging process of the brain, key indicators of abnormal aging, and the impact of Alzheimer’s disease, including genetic predispositions and current treatment limitations. Emphasis is placed on brain training exercises, such as puzzles, board games, video games, and nostalgia-based activities, which have been shown to improve memory, attention, and problem-solving skills. Additionally, the role …

Outreach & Dna-Based Monitoring Facilitate 3-Fold Reduction In Seafood Mislabeling In Los Angeles Over 10 Years, Demian A. Willette, Kelli Andrade, Ben Fitzpatrick, Kesterlyn Wilson

Biology Faculty Works

Awareness and intervention can reduce fraudulent labeling in seafood. Using a 10-year longitudinal study approach, DNA-based monitoring data reveals a lower sushi mislabeling in Los Angeles restaurants over time. This is in part attributed to implemented recommendations by restaurants of a local academia-industry-government outreach initiative launched in 2018, The Los Angeles Seafood Monitoring Project. We found mislabeling was 3-fold lower among project-partnering restaurants than other restaurants. This difference was statistically significant, illustrating the combination of project partnering and implementation of recommendations was most impactful on reducing mislabeling rates. Lastly, the study period includes the COVID19 global pandemic, which additional monitoring …

Food For Thought: The Impact Of The Gut-Brain Axis On Mental Health, Emily S. Miiller

Honors Thesis

Research regarding the role of the human microbiome has grown over the years as professionals develop a better understanding of the gut-brain axis. New studies and expanding knowledge on the relationship between the nervous system and gut microbiome promote a deeper understanding of the impact of diet on mental health. Diet plays a crucial role in maintaining a healthy balance between the gut and the brain. Incorporating nutritional modulators, such as probiotics, prebiotics, and vitamins, is crucial for supporting the gut-brain axis by influencing neurotransmitter production, managing inflammation, and promoting the growth of beneficial gut bacteria. On the other hand, …

Kinetic Control And Trapping In The Supramolecular Polymerization Of M-Terphenyl Bis-Urea Macrocycles, Sophya V. Garashchuk, Gamage Isuri P. Wijesekera, Isabella G. Rushton, Vaibhavi A. Samant, Fahidat A. Gbadamosi, Dr. Md Faizul Islam, Sophya V. Garashchuk, Prof. Dr. Linda S. Shimizu

Faculty Publications

Herein, we examine pathway complexity in the supramolecular polymerization of a novel m-terphenyl bis-urea macrocycle. Designed to induce kinetically metastable states, the macrocycle‘s concentration-dependent aggregation was studied via 1H NMR and IR spectroscopy in THF and CHCl₃. Temperature-dependent UV-Vis spectroscopy in water/THF revealed a cooperative nucleation-growth mechanism, indicated by a shift in λmax to longer wavelengths upon cooling. Morphological studies using DLS, AFM, and SEM demonstrated fibrous aggregate formation. Thermal hysteresis observed in assembly-disassembly cycles indicated kinetically trapped species, with cooling governed by kinetic control and heating by thermodynamic processes. Deviations in ΔH values during cooling, compared to van′t …

How The Biotic And Abiotic Factors In The Belle Forest Cave And Arboretum Soil Dictates Tree Species Prevalence, Amya A. Bingham

SPARK Symposium Presentations

A plethora of factors in the soil impact a plant’s health, including the presence of different biotic and abiotic factors. These include things like temperature, elevation, pH, microbial respiration and the presence of water, clay, loam, silt, sand, nitrogen, potassium, and phosphorus. Different soils will have varying amounts of these, which may dictate what is able to grow in them, and therefore also the surrounding area. This research project explores how the aforementioned biotic and abiotic factors affect the soil at the Belle Forest Cave and Arboretum. Three samples will be taken from four spots along a transect at this …

Investigating Mercury Contamination In Urban Fish: Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy And Histological Analysis For Environmental And Human Health, Indy L. Cockrill, Ross Andrew

SPARK Symposium Presentations

Mercury contamination in aquatic ecosystems is a pressing environmental and public health concern, particularly in urban areas where industrial runoff and wastewater contribute to heavy metal accumulation. This study investigates mercury presence in fish from Richland Creek in Nashville, TN, by analyzing histological changes in liver and muscle tissues. Mercury bioaccumulates in aquatic food chains, potentially leading to physiological damage in fish and posing health risks to humans who consume contaminated seafood. While prior research has established mercury’s toxic effects, there is a need for localized studies assessing its presence in urban waterways. The hope is to find histological abnormalities …