Life Sciences Commons^™

Artificial Food Colors Are Not Needed To Attract Ruby-Throated Hummingbirds (Archilochus Colubris) To Feeders, A. Siddiqui, R. Kannan

Journal of the Arkansas Academy of Science

No abstract provided.

Noteworthy Natural History Notes From The Neotropics, R. Kannan

Journal of the Arkansas Academy of Science

I report some rarely observed, infrequently reported, or hitherto unrecorded ecological interactions from the neotropics. These anecdotal observations were made opportunistically during nature tours or tropical biology classes in Belize, Panama, Costa Rica, and Trinidad & Tobago, between 2014 and 2024.

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.

Investigating Quinclorac Binding To Human Serum Albumin Using Spectroscopy And Molecular Docking, Le Nguyen, L. Hicks, L. Jodoin, S. Carby, D. S. Sanford, D. Benavides, A. Mishra, R. Yadav

Journal of the Arkansas Academy of Science

Human serum albumin (HSA) is the most abundant plasma protein and serves as a major transporter and reservoir for a wide range of endogenous ligands, including fatty acids, heme, bilirubin, prostaglandins, and metal ions, as well as numerous exogenous compounds, such as pharmaceuticals. HSA is a 66 kDa monomeric, multidomain protein containing two principal ligand-binding sites, Sudlow sites I and II. Sudlow site I contains Trp214, the sole tryptophan residue in HSA, whose intrinsic fluorescence provides a sensitive probe for studying ligand–protein interactions.

In this study, the interaction between HSA and the persistent organochlorine herbicide quinclorac (QNC) was investigated using …

Status Of The Gray Fox In Arkansas, D. B. Sasse

Journal of the Arkansas Academy of Science

The putative subspecies of gray fox (Urocyon cinereoargenteus ocythous) that is found in Arkansas has been proposed for federal protection under the Endangered Species Act, primarily due to potential population declines elsewhere in their range. In order to evaluate the need for such protection I evaluated the status of the gray fox in Arkansas utilizing data collected by the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission. Based on purchases of pelts by Arkansas-licensed fur dealers, opinions of Arkansas trappers about gray fox population trends, and hunter observation surveys, the gray fox appears to be widely distributed, abundant, and populations may …

A Review Of Herpetofaunal Distributions In Arkansas With Special Emphasis On Contributions From Citizen Science: Part Ii – Turtles, Lizards, And Alligators, L. Hobbs, E. Kelley, J. Jackson, J.D. Willson, K. G. Roberts, R. Kannan

Journal of the Arkansas Academy of Science

We update and present a comprehensive review of the distributions of the species of lizards (14), alligators (1), and turtles (16) in Arkansas. We compare historical and current distributions with citizen science data uploaded and verified in iNaturalist, a leading online citizen science biodiversity monitoring database. The Arkansas Herpetological Atlas, an online resource maintaining species occurrence records, is also used and compared. We highlight the role played by iNaturalist in enhancing our knowledge of the distributions of these species in Arkansas. As of 13 February 2025, verified and vetted Research Grade (RG) iNaturalist observations from Arkansas include 7,462 observations of …

History And Distribution Of The Dark Ibises (Glossy Ibis Plegadis Falcinellus And White-Faced Ibis P. Chihi) In Arkansas, R. Tumlison, P. D. Rodriguez

Journal of the Arkansas Academy of Science

The Glossy Ibis (Plegadis falcinellus) and White-faced Ibis (P. chihi) sometimes are reported simply as Dark Ibises due to difficulty in identifying them when mature characters are not clearly visible. We evaluated reports verified on citizen science websites to examine the origins and distributions of these migratory species in Arkansas. The Glossy Ibis was first documented in Arkansas in 1956, has been reported in 21 of our 75 counties, and is found more commonly in eastern Arkansas. The White-faced Ibis was first reported in Arkansas in 1971, has been reported in 41 of our 75 counties, …

History And Distribution Of Great-Tailed Grackles (Quiscalus Mexicanus) In Arkansas, R. Tumlison, V. Andersen

Journal of the Arkansas Academy of Science

Great-tailed Grackles (Quiscalus mexicanus) were reported first in southwestern Arkansas in 1969, were nesting there in 1977, and established a resident population by 1980. Nesting was reported in far northwestern Arkansas in 1986. Presently, the species is known from 44 of Arkansas’s 75 counties, those mostly in the western and central counties. Most individuals appear to be migratory, with most reports occurring in April and May. However, breeding and now resident populations have been reported in the southwestern, northwestern, and central counties, particularly in urban areas. Birds are very commonly reported to forage at fast-food establishments and truck …

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 …

Testing The Accuracy Of A Bear-Tracking Satellite Transmitter Collar Under Natural Conditions, K. A. Watson, K. Phipps, C. Drexler, C. R. Middaugh, M. Means, M. Hooks

Journal of the Arkansas Academy of Science

The Arkansas Game and Fish Commission tracks American black bears (Ursus americanus) using Global Positioning System (GPS) satellite telemetry collars in southeastern Arkansas to assess habitat use and behaviors. Companies test the accuracy of their devices, but researchers have found that natural environments, such as the forested habitat of black bears, can cause an increase in spatial error rates. We therefore tested 1 GPS collar in realistic conditions to help refine data interpretation. We placed the collar at 20 random locations in Columbia County, AR, stratifying habitat type based on data collected from black bears. We determined the …

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.

Closing The Gaps: Reforming Maryland Controls On Veterinary Antimicrobial Distribution, Samantha Capaldo, Kerry Mcclaughry

Journal of Food Law & Policy

Antimicrobials have been used in livestock and other food animals in the United States (“U.S.”) since the late 1940s. An antimicrobial is “[a]ny natural, synthetic, or semisynthetic substance that can eradicate or prevent the growth of microbes,” including “[a]ntibacterial, antifungal, antiparasitic, and antiviral medications.” Antimicrobial use in food animals is subject to a complex statutory and regulatory framework at both the state and federal levels. Antimicrobial use in food animals has been widely criticized for contributing to antimicrobial-resistant bacterial infections in humans. In response to this criticism, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (“FDA”) and several states, including Maryland, have …

Arkansas Corn And Grain Sorghum Research Studies 2025, Jason Kelley, Travis Faske

Arkansas Agricultural Experiment Station Research Series

The 2025 edition of the Arkansas Corn and Grain Sorghum Research Studies Series includes research results on topics pertaining to corn and grain sorghum production, including weed, disease, nematode, and insect management; economics; irrigation; agronomics; soil fertility; drone use; research verification program results; and numerous miscellaneous topics. Our objective is to capture and broadly distribute the results of research projects funded by the Arkansas Corn and Grain Sorghum Board. The intended audience includes producers and their advisors, current investigators, and future researchers. The Series serves as a citable archive of research results. The reports inform and guide our long-term recommendations, …

The Evaluation Of Broiler Lines Divergently Selected For Water Conversion Ratio Under Acute And Chronic Stress, Baileigh B. Cash, Sara K. Orlowski-Workman

Discovery, The Student Journal of Dale Bumpers College of Agricultural, Food and Life Sciences

Water conversion ratio (WCR) in broiler production influences bird physiology, environment, and litter quality, and may provide potential solutions to environmental stressors. However, very little is known about how genetic selection for water conversion ratio can affect litter characteristics and performance parameters, specifically under heat stress conditions. This study evaluated the effects of genetic lines, environmental conditions, and time on litter and bird performance characteristics in high water conversion ratio (HWCR) and low water conversion ratio (LWCR) broilers. Live performance parameters, including body weight, water and feed intake, and litter samples, were collected from HWCR and LWCR broilers raised under …

Evaluation Of The Weed Control Efficacy And Potential Economic Returns Of An Autonomous Weeder In Vegetable Production Systems, Claire Plassmeyer

Graduate Theses and Dissertations

Vegetable production requires intensive weed management. Conventional producers rely on herbicide applications to manage weeds effectively at low costs; however, growers are under pressure to minimize chemical use due to environmental concerns and increased incidences of herbicide resistance. Non-conventional systems, including organic and sustainably focused small-scale production, rely primarily on cultural practices and physical weed control methods, which are labor-intensive and costly due to limited labor availability and rising wages. These concerns have prompted the development of autonomous weeding devices, such as unmanned ground vehicles (UGVs) equipped with navigation sensors and implements to provide repeated, high-precision weed control. Compact devices …

Investigating The Effects Of Stress On The Passive Transfer Of Antibodies From Colostrum To The Newborn Calf, Audrey F. Dykes

Animal Science Undergraduate Honors Theses

The objective of the current study was to examine passive transfer of immunoglobulins A (IgA) and G (IgG) to the calf in relation to dam’s fecal cortisol and lactoferrin. In July 2024, late-gestation, Angus crossbred heifers pregnant by artificial insemination (n = 30) were moved to the University of Arkansas Division of Agriculture Stocker Unit and housed in 0.42-ha grass paddocks for each heifer. Calving began in mid-August. Heifers were observed routinely throughout the workday and then at 8 p.m., 12 a.m., and 6 a.m. After calving, the calf was allowed to stand and suckle once then dam sample collection …

The Impacts Of High Protein Diet On Sleep And Mood In Women With Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (Pcos), Lily G. Hiegel

Biological Sciences Undergraduate Honors Theses

The objective of this study is to determine whether adherence to a high protein diet over a sixteen-week period leads to improvements in sleep quality and mood in women with PCOS. It is hypothesized that individuals following the high protein diet will demonstrate significantly better sleep quality and more favorable mood profiles compared to individuals not following the high protein diet. By targeting insulin resistance and dietary carbohydrate intake, this intervention may influence multiple pathways involved in PCOS symptomatology, including hormonal regulation, metabolic function, sleep physiology, and psychological wellbeing.

Differences In Local And Systemic Immune Responses To Primary And Secondary Immunizations With The Herpesvirus Of Turkeys (Hvt) Vaccine In Layer Pullets., Allie K. Bowerman

Poultry Science Undergraduate Honors Theses

Marek's disease, caused by a herpesvirus, is a major issue in poultry production due to its high mortality rate. The herpesvirus of turkeys (HVT) vaccine has been used as a crucial measure to mitigate outbreaks of Marek's disease in poultry production; however, little is known about the immune response to the HVT vaccine. In this study, we examined how primary and secondary intradermal (i.d.) vaccination with the HVT vaccine in the growing feather (GF) pulp affects local and systemic immune responses, including cellular, antibody, and cytokine responses. Six 9-week-old and six 19-week-old Light-brown Leghorn (LBL) pullets received a primary or …

Assessing The Impact Of Toxic Fescue Consumption During Gestation On Muscle Growth Gene Expression And Beef Color Quality Of The Offspring, Madison Blank

Animal Science Undergraduate Honors Theses

Endophyte-infected tall, toxic fescue is the most common forage for beef cattle in the southeastern U.S. However, exposure to this forage causes detrimental effects on the health of gestating cattle. The exposure to toxic fescue during gestation has been shown to impact fetal development during pregnancy and their offspring’s subsequent growth. However, limited information is currently available on the impact of this exposure on the meat quality of the offspring. Our objective is to determine how the dam’s exposure to toxic fescue during gestation impacts the beef color and quality of the final offspring.

A total of 22 animals (11 …

The Evaluation Of Broiler Lines Divergently Selected For Water Conversion Ratio Under Acute And Chronic Stress, Baileigh B. Cash

Poultry Science Undergraduate Honors Theses

            The importance of water conversion ratio in broiler production influences not only bird physiology but also barn environment, litter quality, and provides potential solutions to environmental stressors. However, very little is known about how genetic selection for water conversion ratio can affect litter characteristics and performance parameters, specifically under heat stress conditions. This study evaluates the effects of genetic lines, environmental conditions, and time, on litter and bird performance characteristics in high water conversion ratio (HWCR) and low water conversion ratio (LWCR) broilers. Litter samples were collected from HWCR and LWCR broilers raised under heat-stress and thermal-neutral conditions, both before …

The Effects Of Avian Influenza On Consumer Egg Prices In The United States, Jacob B. Franklin

Agricultural Economics and Agribusiness Undergraduate Honors Theses

Outbreaks of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) create major challenges to poultry supply chains due to the high mortality rates in flocks, leading to disruptions in production and higher costs for producers. Using quantitative data from Federal Reserve Bank of St. Louis, USDA, and National Agricultural Statistics Service, this research analyzes changes in egg production, retail prices, and regional variations throughout the United States for the 2022-2025 HPAI event. A time-series regression model was used to control for production costs, seasonal patterns, and regional differences. All of these measures come together to quantify the impact of HPAI outbreaks on consumer …

Reducing Textile Waste Through 3d Body Scanning Technology: A Comparative Study Of Traditional And Digital Apparel Design Methods, Anna Delap

Apparel Merchandising and Product Development Undergraduate Honors Theses

The fashion industry generates a substantial amount of textile waste each year, highlighting the need to incorporate more sustainable methods in the design and production of apparel garments. Emerging technologies such as three-dimensional (3D) body scanning and digital design software present the potential to reduce the amount of waste generated during product development while also improving fit and customer satisfaction. The purpose of this study was to investigate the potential of 3D body scanning to reduce waste in the apparel industry by comparing garment development using 3D digital design and traditional flat pattern design methods.

In this study, 3D body …

Un-Packing The Pantry: Evaluating And Addressing Nutritional Gaps In Full Circle Food Pantry Service, Gweneth J. Keith-Powell

Crop, Soil and Environmental Sciences Undergraduate Honors Theses

Arkansas has the highest food insecurity rate in the U.S., and college students are disproportionately food insecure. Food insecure populations tend to have worse nutrition and face poorer health outcomes, exacerbating the economic disparities they already face. The purpose of this study was to analyze specific food pantry usage trends, healthy diet access barriers, and processed food consumption drivers of Full Circle Food Pantry clients at the University of Arkansas as they related to food insecurity and nutrition disparities, as well as design a targeted project to improve nutation in an underserved client demographic. Findings supported existing literature regarding lower …

The Influence Of Additional Zinc Supplementation During Gestation On The Trace Mineral Concentrations Of Tissues, Milk, And Calf Serum At Birth, Hunter Miller

Animal Science Undergraduate Honors Theses

Minerals are known to play a key role in the immune system, growth, and development of animals. An important part of a calf's life is receiving colostrum immediately after birth, which provides the calf with immunoglobulins and necessary nutrients that are required. Furthermore, the gestation period is another very important aspect of the calf's life where they can take in the necessary nutrition. This study compared how two different supplements fed during the gestation period ultimately affected the mineral concentrations of the colostrum, placenta, calf plasma, and cow liver. The supplements that were provided were a 1) control that provided …

Clawing Our Way To Inclusion: Identifying Minority Students’ Barriers To Entering The Veterinary Medicine Profession, Danielle Reeves

Animal Science Undergraduate Honors Theses

Veterinary services are being utilized more each year as pet owners are increasingly viewing and treating their pets like family members. Due to this changing perspective, the veterinary profession has grown significantly. Yet, despite this change, there is a lack of ethnic/racial diversity within the veterinary field. The purpose of this study was to determine the factors and/or barriers associated with minority students' desire or lack of desire to pursue a career in veterinary medicine. This study used an online survey tool to collect qualitative and quantitative data from 423 undergraduate students at the University of Arkansas during the spring …

The Effect Of Blue-Green Light On Behavioral Repertoire And Fear Responses In Broiler Chickens, Addie Walker

Animal Science Undergraduate Honors Theses

The broiler chicken industry has increased the number of birds produced each year,

making the mitigation of stressors that affect broiler health and meat quality increasingly

important. New management strategies, like lighting protocols, could help combat stressors and

promote behavioral indicators of positive welfare. This study compared the effects of blue-green

and white light on broiler fear response using a tonic immobility test and behavioral repertoire in

the home pen using continuous focal sampling. Day-of-hatch male broiler chicks (N=600) were

randomly divided into 12 pens (n=50 chicks/pen). The pens had either a white LED light

(control, n=6) or a blue-green …