Digital Commons Network^™

Isolation, Quantification, And Characterization Of Microplastics In Atmospheric Fallout Across Different Areas Of Lahore, Punjab, Pakistan, Muhammad Rizwan, Aqib Javed, Muhammad Javed Islam, Kashif Riaz, Asif Bilal, Muhammad Nasir, Ayesha Ali

Journal of Bioresource Management

Microplastics have become widely dispersed in our environment, and even in the air we breathe. The present research aims at identifying and determining the amounts of microplastics present in atmospheric fallout over Lahore city, which is characterized by a large population and several manufacturing industries. In order to find out the existence of microplastics, samples of atmospheric fallout were collected from various sites across hustling municipalities of Lahore that included urbanized settlements. The analysis disclosed that there are various forms of microplastic fibers, fragments and granules indicating different sources of pollution. The identified ones varied from 114.485 µm to 2034.731 …

Fungal-Associated Deterioration Of Polythene Bags Collected From The Dumping Sites Of District Sialkot: A Preliminary Screening Study, Zarish Fatima, Brian Gagosh Nayyar, Ayesha Sarwar, Mah-E- Noor Abbas, Saira Fiaz, Wajiha Seerat

Journal of Bioresource Management

Polythene bags are highly inert plastic materials made from monomers of ethylene. Due to their durability, lightweight, and low-weight characteristics, polythene bags are in high demand among consumers and retailers worldwide. This widespread use of polythene bags has led to the generation of polythene waste in the environment. This study focused on the degradation of polythene bags through fungal strains in the desired region.  In this research, three identified fungal strains, namely Aspergillus niger, Aspergillus flavus, and Fusarium oxysporum, were screened using two synthetic media for degradation, such as the culture plate method (CPM) and Liquid media degradation (LMD). A …

Light-Driven Zonation And Community Structure Of Aerophytic Microalgae In A Tropical Limestone Cave (Gua Tempurung, Malaysia), Wan Maznah Wan Omar, Mohammad Basri Eshak, Luthfiana Aprilianita Sari, Zulaihat Hamza Abdullahi, Yusuf Abdullahi

International Journal of Speleology

Cave ecosystems host specialized phototrophic biofilms structured primarily by light availability, yet quantitative assessments of aerophytic microalgal community organization in tropical limestone caves remain limited. This study investigated spatial variation in the structure of aerophytic microalgal communities across four ecologically distinct zones (entrance, transition, penetration, and low light) of Gua Tempurung, Malaysia. Stratified sampling was conducted during three seasonal periods. Dominant phototrophic morphospecies were identified using microscopy, and community composition was analyzed in relation to key environmental variables. Twenty-three dominant microalgal morphospecies were recorded across the cave gradient. Cyanobacteria constituted the major component of both richness and abundance, followed by …

Environmental Tolerances And Habitat Association Of Three Endemic Crayfish Species In Texas, Andrew Walker

Biology Theses

Little is known about many of the 52 crayfish species in Texas. This thesis investigates physiological tolerances of three species endemic to the Jackson Vale ecoregion of Southeast Texas, the Bastrop crayfish (Procambarus texanus), Nueces crayfish (Procambarus nueces), and the Fayette’s crayfish (Procambarus fayettei) as well as the White River crayfish (Procambarus acutus), which is ubiquitous throughout East Texas. Thermal, hypoxia, and acidity tolerances were tested on wild caught individuals through laboratory assays. Findings from this study will inform wildlife managers of future conservation strategies relating to these endemic species.

The Impact Of The Urban Dimension Of Social Housing Projects In Improving The Quality Of Urban Life For Residents Case Study (Housing Project For Neighborhood 27 In New Damietta City), Samah Sameh Zaki Al Qaqaa, Nanis Abdel Hameed Al-Sayyad, Marwa Atef Abdel Hadi

Mansoura Engineering Journal

This research discusses social housing and its impact on improving the quality of life for residents. It measures the relationship between housing and quality of life indicators, in line with Goal 11 of the Sustainable Development Goals, and Egypt's Vision 2030, which prioritizes urban development and slums to achieve safe housing. This is done within understanding social housing, its requirements and priorities, leading to the factors that must be present in housing to improve the quality of life for its residents. This is accomplished by assessing the impact of the urban side of projects in improving the quality of life …

Fracture Performance Of Fdm Printed Pla And Petg: Role Of Infill Geometry And Layer Height, Abdulla Ahmed Aldhaheri

Thesis/ Dissertation Defenses

This Additive Manufacturing (AM) has revolutionized modern design and manufacturing by enabling layer-by-layer fabrication directly from 3D Computer-Aided Design (CAD) models. This approach enhances material efficiency, reduces waste, and allows the production of complex geometries. Among various AM methods, Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM) is one of the most widely used techniques. In FDM, thermoplastic filament is heated and extruded through a nozzle to build components layer by layer. Several process parameters significantly influence the structural integrity, mechanical properties, and overall performance of FDM-fabricated parts. Recent research has increasingly focused on understanding the fracture behavior of commonly used materials such as …

Biotechnological Applications Of Microalgae: Advances, Potential And Future Challenges: A Review, Samiha M. Gharib, Mohamed Z. Nassar

Blue Economy

This review highlights the diverse biotechnological applications of microalgae, emphasizing their significance in human health, nutrition, and sustainable development. Microalgae are among the most widespread photosynthetic microorganisms in aquatic environments, characterized by remarkable metabolic diversity and the ability to produce a wide range of valuable bioactive compounds. These compounds include proteins, lipids, essential fatty acids, pigments, vitamins, and antioxidants, which support their applications in food, feed, pharmaceuticals, and cosmetic industries. In addition to their nutritional and therapeutic potential, microalgae play a crucial role in environmental management through carbon dioxide sequestration, wastewater treatment, and bioremediation processes. Their capacity to convert solar …

(R2124) Impact Of Delay And Awareness On Hiv/Aids Epidemic Model, Debashis Biswas

Applications and Applied Mathematics: An International Journal (AAM)

A delayed HIV/AIDS epidemic model with awareness has been taken here. Essentially, it is mentioned that the disease spreads among the population only through contact (horizontal transmission). The equilibrium points of both the proposed models are investigated, and their stability is discussed. Both models have two types of equilibria, namely the disease-free and the disease positive. The basic reproductive number of both models has been calculated by using the next generation matrix technique. In this paper, the main motivation is to find a way to decrease the disease transmission. Also discussed the impact of delay and awareness on the HIV/AIDS …

Instructions To Authors, Academy Editors

Journal of the Arkansas Academy of Science

No abstract provided.

Journal Acknowledgements And Editorial Board, Academy Editors

Journal of the Arkansas Academy of Science

No abstract provided.

Keynote Address And Meeting Program, Academy Editors

Journal of the Arkansas Academy of Science

No abstract provided.

Business Meeting Report (Secretary's And Treasurer's Report), Academy Editors

Journal of the Arkansas Academy of Science

No abstract provided.

Sperm Morphology In The Eastern Narrow-Mouthed Frog, Gastrophryne Carolinensis (Anura: Microhylidae), S. E. Trauth

Journal of the Arkansas Academy of Science

Studies by Scheltinga et al. (2002) and Scheltinga and Jamieson (2003) provide the most comprehensive analysis and only review of sperm morphology in Narrow-Mouthed Frogs (family Microhylidae). Of the 490+ species known to occur in this anuran family (Vitt and Caldwell 2014), only 3 are distributed in the United States (Powell et al. 2016), and 2 of these occur in Arkansas (Trauth et al. 2004). Surprisingly, sperm studies on only 12 microhylid species have been conducted (Scheltinga and Jamieson 2003), and no sperm studies are available on any North American species.

Multiple Nuclear Configurations And Microtubular Arrangements In Spermatozoa Of The Western Siren, Siren Nettingi (Caudata: Sirenidae), S. E. Trauth

Journal of the Arkansas Academy of Science

I examined the ultrastructure of spermatozoa of the Western Siren, Siren nettingi, using transmission electron microscopy. My primary objective in this study was to elucidate, for the first time, the unique morphological complexity of biflagellated sperm in this species. This study also represents my fifth addition in a series of investigations that highlight the novel nature of all aspects of spermatogenesis in this salamander I show the basic sperm transverse and sagittal design which includes a nucleus, 2 axial fibers supporting 2 undulating membranes which have 2 axonemes residing at their terminal ends, several circular mitochondria, and several electron-dense masses. …

Binucleation And Seasonal Cycle Of Sertoli Cells In The Western Lesser Siren, Siren Nettingi (Caudata: Sirenidae), S. E. Trauth

Journal of the Arkansas Academy of Science

I examined binucleation and the seasonal cycle of Sertoli cells in the Western Siren (Siren nettingi) using light microscopy and transmission electron microscopy. My primary objective in this study was to report, for the first time, the presence of double nuclei in Sertoli cells in a salamander. This study also represents the sixth contribution in a series of investigations that highlight the novel nature of all aspects of spermatogenesis in this unique salamander. My findings add to a growing list of extraordinary morphological and reproductive features that distinguish this salamander from all other vertebrates.

Distal Urogenital Anatomy And Epithelial Morphology In The Male Eastern Narrow-Mouthed Frog, Gastrophryne Carolinensis (Anura: Microhylidae), S. E. Trauth

Journal of the Arkansas Academy of Science

I investigated the microanatomy of the distal urogenital system in male Eastern Narrow-Mouthed Frogs (Gastrophryne carolinensis) from a small sample (n = 5) collected in central Arkansas in April, May, and July (2021) and May 2022. Specifically, my primary goals were to elucidate the histology of the following: (1) the paired Wolffian (urogenital) ducts caudally from the kidneys to their merging with the urodeum of the cloaca, (2) the structure of seminal vesicles, and (3) the epithelial morphologies among the distal urogenital tract, the posterior alimentary canal, and the cloaca. My histological analysis confirmed the presence of …

Academy Presidents And Institutional Members, Academy Editors

Journal of the Arkansas Academy of Science

No abstract provided.

Table Of Contents, Academy Editors

Journal of the Arkansas Academy of Science

No abstract provided.

Journal Of The Arkansas Academy Of Science Volume 79, Academy Editors

Journal of the Arkansas Academy of Science

No abstract provided.

Lesson 3. Hydroponics System Implementation And Community Resilience, Jaysel Magno, Genesis Barbon, Madhav P. Nepal

iLEARN Teaching Resources

Students apply their understanding of climate limitations, food systems, and food sovereignty by launching and maintaining a 42-pod hydroponics system. Through hands-on participation, students learn the functions of hydroponic system components, establish maintenance procedures, and assume responsibility for long-term system management. This experiential learning lesson emphasizes community resilience, sustainability, self-determination, and practical problem-solving. Students connect scientific concepts to real-world community needs while recognizing hydroponics as a strategy for strengthening local food production and reducing food system vulnerability.

Problem-Based Learning (PBL) Scenario. The community faces long winters, transportation challenges, and limited opportunities for year-round food production. Students have learned that climate …

Multiplex Pcr Assay To Distinguish Porcine And Non-Porcine Meats In Processed Foods Using Specific Primers From Nadh Dehydrogenase And Atp Synthase Gene, Kristianto Nugroho, Amalia Prihaningsih, Rerenstradika Tizar Terryana, Slamet Diah Volkandari, Mastur Mastur, Puji Lestari

Makara Journal of Science

Food safety issues, such as food adulteration between halal and non-halal meats, are among the most serious problems in Muslim countries like Indonesia. Food adulteration produces a mixture of products that cannot be detected visually by customers, and it could lead to several social and health problems. The availability of a detection method that can disti-nguish between porcine and non-porcine meats is very important, particularly one that can be utilized in small-scale labo-ratories. The aim of this study was to design and optimize species-specific primers that could distinguish between porcine and non-porcine meats in processed foods by utilizing NADH Dehydrogenase …

In Silico And Toxicological Evaluation Of Crescentia Cujete Aqueous Extract: Potential Anticancer Activity Against Breast Cancer, Rahma Diyan Martha, Fatimah Fatimah, Syahputra Wibowo, Bantari Wisynu Kusuma Wardhani, Josephine Elizabeth Siregar, Elisabeth Farah Novita Coutrier, Alfia Fitrianita, Andri Pramesyanti Pramono, Ita Margaretha Nainggolan, Yudhi Nugraha, Danar Danar, Naufal Abiyyu, Lalu Unsunnidhal, Aswin Rafif Khairullah, Arif Nur Muhammad Ansori, Hesty Parbuntari, Wimbuh Tri Widodo

Makara Journal of Science

Majapahit plant (Crescentia cujete), commonly found in Indonesia, has not been extensively explored for its medicinal properties. Given that many cancer treatments are derived from plants, this study aimed to examine the effects of plants on cancer chemical composition of the C. cujete fruit pulp extract, identify its primary compounds, and assess its potential as an antioxidant, anticancer agent, particularly for breast cancer. An insilico approach was used to evaluate the toxicity and interactions, of the compounds with cancer biomarker proteins, in addition to an in vivo Brine Shrimp Lethality Test (BSLT) for BSLT, toxicity screening using six …

Screening For The Suitable Signal Peptide For Secreted Nattokinase Expression In E. Coli Using An In Silico Approach: Precursor Vs. Mature Forms, Dewi Purwani Caya Ningsih, Kartika Sari Dewi, I Wayan Martadi Santika, Ade Andriani, Joko Pebrianto Trinugroho, Muhammad Yusuf

Makara Journal of Science

Nattokinase (NK), an enzyme with thrombolytic activity, has been widely used in treating cardiovascular disease. The expression of NK in the E. coli cell host is favored due to its several benefits, though it often results in inclusion bodies. Appropriate signal peptides can be attached to the N-terminus of a protein to initiate a secretory expression system, thus preventing the nascent protein from aggregating in the cytoplasm. This study aimed to identify suitable signal peptides for the secretory expression of active NK in E. coli and to investigate the impact of pre-protein in NK secretion using an in silico approach. …

Ecological Patterns Of Culture-Recoverable Entomopathogenic Fungi From The Maize Rhizosphere Across Three Elevation Zones In West Java, Indonesia, Lilian Rizkie, Tjandra Anggraeni, I Nyoman Pugeg Aryantha, Agus Susanto

Makara Journal of Science

Entomopathogenic fungi (EPF) are important components of soil ecosystems and may support sustainable pest management in agricultural systems. This study characterized culture-recoverable EPF in maize (Zea mays L.) rhizospheric soils collected from 45 points across three elevation zones in West Java, Indonesia, using a spatially nested sampling design. Fungi were isolated by insect baiting with Tenebrio molitor larvae and direct soil plating. The isolates recovered were assigned to genera based on colony morphology and microscopic characteristics. Four EPF genera— Verticillium, Paecilomyces, Beauveria, and Metarhizium—were detected, with 34/45 samples (75.6%) positive for at least one recoverable …

Association Of Social Isolation, Loneliness, Social Strain And Support With Cancer Onset, And Frailty And All-Cause Mortality In People With Cancer, Joanne Elayoubi

USF Tampa Graduate Theses and Dissertations

Cancer is the second leading cause of death both in the United States and globally and for individuals over sixty-five. In 2026, approximately 2,114,850 new cancer cases are projected to emerge according to the National Center for Health Statistics (Siegel et al., 2026). Cancer incidence is increasing, making older adults sixty-five and older at risk of frailty and mortality following cancer. Although social isolation, loneliness, lack of social support, and social strain have been found to be risk factors for poor health and mortality, it is not clear the extent to which social relationships are associated with incident cancer, and …

Humans Rule? Development Of Stewardship Mindsets Among Religious Undergraduates, Jamie Jensen, J Robert Nielson

ScholarsArchive Data

Two cohorts of students enrolled in a non-major introductory biology course were surveyed in 2020 and 2025 using the Revised New Ecological Paradigm (R-NEP) instrument. Open-ended student responses concerning their definition of ‘rule’ as a human prerogative were also analyzed using qualitative coding.

Editorial: Plant Responses To Abiotic Stress: Unraveling Complex Mechanisms Through Genomics And Physiology, Mizanur Rahman, Takashi Asaeda, Md Harun Rashid

School of Earth, Environmental, & Marine Sciences Faculty Publications

No abstract provided.

Rna G-Quadruplexes Function As A Tunable Switch Of Fus Phase Separation, Jenny L. Carey, Miyuki Hayashi, Emily A. Welebob, Laura R. Ganser, Huan Wang, Kerry Buckhaults, Jacquelyn A. Depierro, Zheng Shi, James Shorter, Sua Myong, Aaron R. Haeusler, Lin Guo

Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Faculty Papers

Fused in sarcoma (FUS) undergoes liquid-liquid phase separation (LLPS) to support essential cellular functions, but aberrant phase transitions promote toxic aggregation in neurodegenerative disease. Short RNA oligonucleotides can reverse this behavior, yet the structural determinants that govern RNA activity remain poorly defined. Here, we identify RNA G-quadruplexes (rG4s) as tunable structural motifs that potently modulate FUS LLPS. rG4 activity depends on its concentration and is modulated by rG4 length and stability: increasing repeat number switches rG4s from inhibitor to nucleator of FUS assembly, whereas chemical modifications that stabilize rG4 enhance inhibitory function and render these activities resilient to ionic perturbation. …

Advancing Paradigm Of Quantitative Synthetic Biology And Strengthening Mission-Oriented Basic Research, Chenli Liu

Bulletin of Chinese Academy of Sciences (Chinese Version)

Synthetic biology is an important frontier in the life sciences, yet its further development remains constrained by limited capacity for rational design. Quantitative synthetic biology, which iteratively integrates quantitative modeling with the construction and analysis of synthetic systems, offers a promising paradigm for addressing this challenge. In this perspective, the study discusses the background and motivations underlying the emergence of this field and summarizes recent developments and exploratory efforts. Considering the unique characteristics of quantitative synthetic biology, it is suggested that progress in the field may benefit from strategically organized collaborative research that balances mission-oriented goals with investigator-driven exploration. On …

Air Pollution And Public Health: Global Evidence And Implications, Mohammed Obaid Al-Mansoori

Al-Bahir

Globally, the issue of air pollution keep being one of most serious challenges that affecting environment and human health, coming from emissions of industries, transport, agriculture and also from the fuel people use in homes, in addition to natural events that make the situation worse. This review try to bring together the available evidences about the sources, types, and the health impacts of the main air pollutants, including the gaseous ones like SO₂, O₃, NO₂, and CO, and the particulate matter (PM₁₀, PM₂.₅). Exposure for short or long time to these pollutants is linked with many harmful outcomes, such as …