Life Sciences Commons^™

Effect Of Sleep Restriction On Quadriceps’ Strength And Voluntary Activation, Scott Sigrist

Theses and Dissertations--Kinesiology and Health Promotion

Background: As little as three nights of sleep restriction reduces muscle strength. More than one-third of Americans are chronically sleep restricted (< 7.0 hours/night) and are at risk of muscle weakness (dynapenia). Presently, the mechanistic cause of sleep restriction-induced dynapenia (SRID) has not been elucidated. Rapid changes in muscle strength are typically driven by short-term changes in muscle contractility or voluntary recruitment. The purpose of this study was to investigate how sleep restriction affects muscle contractile function and voluntary recruitment. Methods: A sample of 12 subjects (age 24.8 ± 2.6y) underwent isometric and isokinetic knee extensor muscle testing following 3d of adequate sleep (SA; 8.05 ± 0.45h), 3 d of sleep restriction (SR; 5.02 ± 0.05h), and 7d of washout (WO, 8.27 ± 0.50). The morning (7-11a local time) following the last day of each sleep period, subjects performed muscle strength testing using an isokinetic dynamometer. Subjects sat upright with the dominant leg secured at 60⁰ of knee flexion to optimize maximal quadriceps torque. They then performed 3 maximal voluntary isometric contractions (MVICs) of the quadriceps. Then subjects performed 6 submaximal contractions at 15, 30, 45, 60, 75, and 90% of the greatest MVIC. Next, subjects completed an interpolated twitch experiment while on the isokinetic dynamometer to assess voluntary activation. Finally, subjects completed 5 repetitions of isometric contractions, in descending order, at speeds of 300, 240, 180, 120, and 60 degree/s. From these methods we measured the highest MVIC, calculated the voluntary activation (VA), measured twitch properties, and compared the torque-EMG relationship. One-way repeated measures ANOVA were used to compare sleep, MVIC, and VA values, two-way (time x twitch property) repeated measures ANOVA was used to compare twitch properties and the torque-EMG relationship. Results: MVIC torque decreased following SR compared to SA before and after sleep restriction (SA: 217.1 ± 69.4 Nm vs. SR: 199.4 ± 67.1 Nm, p = 0.032). MVIC after WO (219.2 ± 54.2 Nm) was significantly greater than SR (p = 0.018) but was not significantly different from SA (p = 0.991). Although peak isokinetic torque decreased with increasing velocity (p < 0.001), there was no significant effect of sleep or sleep x speed interaction. Peak twitch torque and rate of torque
development, but not relaxation rate, were significantly greater in the potentiated state, but no significant effect of sleep or sleep x time interaction was noted. Sleep 3 condition did not significantly affect voluntary activation (SA: 86.3 ± 11.1% v. SR:86.6 ± 11.9% v. WO 87.7 ± 11.1%; p = 0.695). The torque output at various levels ofelectromyography (EMG) activity was not significantly different among sleep conditions (p = 0.383). The mean power frequency (MPF) of the VL was …

Investigation Of Lower Extremity Neuromuscular Function In Individuals With And Without Diabetes, Roya Hoveizavi

Theses and Dissertations--Kinesiology and Health Promotion

Background: Diabetes mellitus is associated with notable neuromuscular and motor dysfunctions that could lead to an increased risk of plantar ulcers and amputations. Several contributing factors, including increased muscle-tendon stiffness and abnormal muscle activation pattern may influence the kinematics and kinetics of walking in people with diabetes and promote formation of plantar ulcers. Hyperglycemia and the resultant accelerated rate of glycation have been recognized as the leading cause of muscle and tendon degeneration, yet the precise mechanisms by which diabetes affects the biomechanical properties of the muscle-tendon unit remains unclear. Altered muscle activity during gait is observed in people with …

The Effect Of Physical Activity Courses On The Motivation For Physical Activity In College Students: A Scoping Review, Erica Fauste Waizenhofer Hill

Theses and Dissertations--Kinesiology and Health Promotion

The lack of physical activity and exercise participation has been an ongoing
problem for young adults aged 18-24. Universities and colleges worldwide offer a variety of required and elective physical activity courses for college credit to increase active participation in lifelong healthy lifestyles. This scoping review collected studies on college students’ motivation to participate in physical activity. The courses were taught using methods based on motivational theories. The authors of the studies collected information from the students before and after the classes to gather data on the theoretical framework’s effect on the students, if any. This review compiles this information, …

Reliability And Validity Of A Commercial Running Power Meter To Indicate Metabolic Workload During Endurance Running, James Harris Hudgins Iii

Theses and Dissertations--Kinesiology and Health Promotion

Commercial running power (RP) meters may provide endurance runners and coaches with improved precision for monitoring running intensity. Cyclists rely upon the relationship between cycling power and metabolic demand to regulate physiological intensity during training and racing, independent of changes in the physical environment (e.g., terrain, wind). Research demonstrates strong reliability and validity for a specific RP meter to indicate metabolic demand within controlled running conditions. However, several potential influences on this relationship have not been investigated. Therefore, four studies were conducted with the following aims:

- Study 1: Determine the inter-limb reliability and validity of a single-limb-based RP meter …

The Effects Of Cannabidiol Cream On Soreness And Performance After Exercise In Untrained Individuals, Joseph Thomas Pastina

Theses and Dissertations--Kinesiology and Health Promotion

Background: Exercise-induced muscle damage (EIMD) results from unaccustomed exercise and can lead to delayed onset muscle soreness (DOMS). Impairments associated with EIMD and DOMS can result in moderate-to-severe discomfort and hindered performance. Recently, a compound derived from the cannabis plant, cannabidiol (CBD), has been used as a recovery tool for EIMD and DOMS. Despite the rising popularity of CBD products, their effectiveness in mitigating EIMD and DOMS is unknown. Purpose: The purpose of the present study was to investigate the effects of CBD cream on DOMS and performance after an intensive lower-body exercise protocol. In addition, the study sought to …

The Effects Of Saddle Angle/Inclination On Lumbopelvic Kinematics And Cardiometabolic Measures, Andrew Nathan Anderson

Theses and Dissertations--Kinesiology and Health Promotion

Lower back pain (LBP) is a condition which affects the lumbar portion of the spinal column that can lead to mild to extreme physical pain during seated tasks and has been shown to be prevalent in people who spend long durations sitting particularly in a slumped position or in a position with a large degree of lumbar flexion. LBP can cause regular interruptions in work and in a person’s ability to engage in exercise, and in most extreme cases warrants surgical interventions for clinical treatment. While LBP is prevalent in sedentary populations, it is also quite prevalent in cycling populations …

The Relationship Of Multidimensional Athlete Characteristics Versus Competition Performance And Participation In American Football Players, Alex Brownell

Theses and Dissertations--Kinesiology and Health Promotion

BACKGROUND: Athlete evaluation in American football is dominated by the evaluation characteristics that underly key performance indicators (KPI’s) in the physical domain of performance. Team sport athlete performance is comprised of a combination of attributes in the physical, technical, tactical, and mental domains of performance. Using only KPI’s in the physical domain of performance to predict competition performance of American football athletes is challenging due to the differences in performance outcomes of the varying positions in American football and absence of the other performance dimensions that are not accounted for. Advances in athlete assessment have revolutionized the process of evaluating …

Assessment Of Hypothyroidism Among Adult Patients Suffering From Beta Thalassemia Major, Ahmed Saleh Ibrahim, Azza Hasan Abd El-Fatah, Ayman Fathy Abd El-Halim, Fared Fawzy Mohamed

Mansoura Medical Journal

Background: Although beta thalassemia major (BTM) patients are properly treated with blood transfusions in accompany with iron chelation therapy, they suffer from serious complications such as hypothyroidism. Aim: This work aims to assess hypothyroidism among adult with β-thalassemia major patients and to find out its association with various parameters such as age, body mass index (BMI) ,gender ,hemoglobin(Hb) and serum ferritin levels. Methods: This cross-sectional study included 200 adult BTM patients (males 115 and females 85 ; mean age 24.684 ±5.30761 years; ranging from 18 to 43 years old). Statistical data analysis was performed using IBM-SPSS software package version 26.0. …

Value Of Qrs Fragmentation As Novel Electrocardiogram Predictor Of Reperfusion In Acute Myocardial Infarction Patient, Hoda M. Sobh, Nader E. Awad, Mohamed A. Omar

Mansoura Medical Journal

Background: The main target of treatment of STEMI is to restore coronary blood flow and maintain myocardial perfusion. Several tools including electrocardiographic and coronary angiographic parameters are used to assess myocardial reperfusion. Fragmented QRS is associated with increased adverse cardiovascular events, it was proved to bea marker of ventricular dysfunction and poor prognosis in STEMI. Aim of the work : To study the relation between QRS fragmentations and the degree of myocardial reperfusion in patients with STEMI treated with either fibrinolytic therapy or primary percutaneous coronary interventions (1ry PCI). Patients and methods: 100 subjects admitted with first attack of STEMI …

Long-Term Stability Of Electrical Stapedial Reflex And Electrodes Impedance In Children With Med-El Cochlear Implants, Maram Mohamed Rashad Ghoniem, Ayman El-Saeed Elsharabasy, Yousef Kamel Shabana, Elshahat Ibrahem Ismail

Mansoura Medical Journal

Background

The purpose of this study was to investigate changes in electrical evoked stapedial reflex thresholds (ESRTs) and electrodes impedance over time in children with MED-EL cochlear implants.

Methods

In this study, 60 kids were included, while 15 kids were excluded because their cases did not fit the requirements. Patients who received MED-EL cochlear implants were monitored postoperatively over 5 years to determine whether or not their ESRT and electrode impedance remained stable.

Results

At the initial fitting, electrodes 4, 5, 6, 8, and 9 showed significantly different impedances, while electrodes 1, 2, 3, 7, 10, 11, and 12 showed …

One Stage Procedure Versus Two Stages Procedure In Management Of Obstructed Non-Perforated Cancer Colon, Magdy Basheer, Mahmoud Neamatallah, Ashraf Abbas, Mohamed Shetiwy

Mansoura Medical Journal

Background: The surgical management of large bowel emergency patients remains controversial. However, there has been an increasing trend toward primary reconstructive surgery. Objective: To evaluate one-stage procedure versus two-stage procedure in cases presented with obstructed nonperforated cancer colon in terms of operative time, hospital stay, postoperative complications, peri-operative mortality, and quality of life. Patients and methods: A prospective randomized study was conducted at Emergency Mansoura University Hospitals. A total of 50 cases diagnosed with obstructed nonperforated cancer colon were randomly allocated into two groups; the first group included 25 cases who underwent the one-stage approach, and the second one included …

Outcome Of Covid-19 In Patients With Rheumatic Diseases Treated With Immunosuppressive Drugs, Ali Sobh, Noha Hazem Elnagdy, Mohamed Elegezy, Mohamed Mofreh, Mohamed Tohlob, Ahmad M. Eita, Ragheed Rizk, Ola Eliwa, Marwa H. Elnagdy, Ahmed Elsaeed Abdulgalil

Mansoura Medical Journal

Background: Rheumatologic disorders have been significantly impacted by the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. The potential role of immunosuppressive drugs in the presentation, severity and even management of COVID-19 is still questionable. The aim of this work was to study the effect of immunosuppressive drugs on outcome of COVID-19 infection in patients with rheumatic diseases. 109 rheumatic patients (37 pediatrics and 72 adults) taking immunosuppressive treatment with confirmed COVID-19 infection were included in this study. Clinical, laboratory, radiological findings and outcome of these patients were retrospectively retrieved from hospital medical records. Results: The majority of adult cases were rheumatoid arthritis …

Unusual Late Presentation Of Kartagener Syndrome: A Case Report, Abdulhadi H. Al-Mazroea

Mansoura Medical Journal

Kartagener's syndrome (KS) is a rare inherited autosomal recessive condition. It comprises of the triad chronic sinusitis, bronchiectasis, and situs inversus. The symptoms are more prevalent in children in the early years of life. We describe a case of a 15-year-old child showing severe respiratory distress with a history of intermittent wet cough and rhinitis for the past six months. The patient was diagnosed with dextrocardia at birth and had no significant medical history since then. Based on his clinical presentation and imaging findings, he was diagnosed with KS that was confirmed by whole-exome sequencing. The patient was managed with …

Evaluation Of Platelet Indices And Low-Density Lipoprotein (Ldl) As Predictors Of Acute Ischemic Stroke Severity And Outcome, Ahmed E. Al-Sharabi, Ashraf A. El-Mitwalli, Yousra M. Tera, Hossam M. Egila

Mansoura Medical Journal

Background: Platelets play a role in atherosclerosis, inflammation, and thrombosis. Prothrombotic events, activation, aggregation, and adhesion are all increased by elevated mean platelet volume (MPV) and platelet distribution width (PDW) levels; high low-density lipoprotein (LDL) raises the risk of cardiovascular disease. Aims: Investigate the association between platelet indices, lipid profile, stroke severity, and outcome in patients with acute ischemic stroke. ‎ Subjects and methods: A prospective case-control study involved 100 acute ischemic stroke patients and 100 controls from Mansoura University Hospitals. Patients underwent neurological assessments, including the National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS), modified Rankin Scale (mRS), and Alberta …

Evaluation Of Congenital Coronary Arteries Anomalies On Cardiac Computed Tomography Angiography (Cta) For Congenital Heart Diseases, Zainab A. Ramadan

Mansoura Medical Journal

Background and purpose: Coronary arteries anomalies (CAA) are generally rare but more common to co-exist with congenital cardiac anomalies. These include several congenital conditions either origin, course, or termination. This study aims to emphasize that the accurate evaluation of CAA on cardiac computed tomography angiography (CTA) is a must prior to proper surgical intervention in congenital heart diseases (CHD) to prevent unnecessary procedures or vascular injury of these vital arteries. Methods: Cardiac CTA scans for patients with suspected cardiac anomalies or diseases were retrospectively reviewed by radiologist for the presence of CAA between February 2020 and March 2023. CAA were …

Don’T Miss What Is Hidden On Cardiac Ct Angiography: Extra-Cardiac Findings Count, Zainab Ahmad Ramadan, Aya Ahmed Elboghdady, Aya Mohammed Abdel Aziz, Farah Ahmed Shokeir

Mansoura Medical Journal

Background: Multi-detector computed tomography (MDCT)is the main imaging modality in cardiovascular diseases. Another important role of MDCT is assessment of extra-cardiac structures outside the pericardium. These extra-cardiac findings may be of great relevance. Methods: Cardiac MDCT scan results were retrospectively reviewed by radiologist for the presence of extra-cardiac findings between February 2020 and December 2022. They were categorized according to anatomical location into systems as pulmonary, pleural, mediastinal, bronchial, vascular, bony, abdominal and miscellaneous. Results: A total of 955 patients had a cardiac multidetector CT angiography scan during the study period. Extra-cardiac findings were reported in 320 (33.5%) of these …

Developing A Computer-Based Program For Language Rehabilitation Of Arabic-Speaking Aphasic Patients, Sara Elsherbeny, Ayman Amer, Hemmat Baz, Tamer Abou-Elsaad

Mansoura Medical Journal

Background: Aphasia is acquired selective impairment of language. Computerized aphasia therapy is useful in language therapy and offers chances for independent practice at home to maximize intensity and improve outcomes. The aim of this study was to develop a computer-based language rehabilitation program for Arabic-speaking Egyptian aphasic patients to be culturally, linguistically and socially suitable for them and to determine its effectiveness. Methods: We conducted a prospective interventional study on 20 aphasic patients in the age range 40-65 years who received rehabilitation for 3 months using a newly designed Arabic software program named “Takalam”. The program was pilot-studied on 10 …

Migraine Among Neurology Outpatient Attendants In Mansoura University: Sociodemographic And Migraine Comorbidities Analysis, Mohammad Youssif Ismail Ibrahim, Tamer Mohammad Belal, Hossam Mohammad Egila, Ahmed Gamal Azab

Mansoura Medical Journal

Background: Twelve percent of the population is thought to suffer from migraines. 1% to 2% of individuals worldwide suffer from chronic migraine (CM). Approximately 2.5% of cases who have episodic migraine (EM) develop CM. A number of risk factors are linked to the development of CM. Independent of medication; there is a sizable short-term variance in migraine frequency. Sleep difficulties, psychological illness, and cardiovascular disease are all linked to migraine. It is the second most incapacitating illness globally. Objectives: To evalaute the sociodemographic characteristics of migraineurs and their different co-morbidities. Patients and methods: A cross-sectional study with analytic component was …

Myocardial And Renal Protective Effects Of Dexmedetomidine Vs Magnesium Sulphate In Patients Undergoing Elective Open Abdominal Aortic Surgery, Mohamed Younes Yousef Abd Allah, Maha Younes Youssef Abd-Allah, Abdelrahman Mohammed Elnagar

Mansoura Medical Journal

Background: After abdominal aortic aneurysm surgery, the likelihood of postoperative myocardial infarction is seven percent, but likelihood of postoperative cardiac problems without signs of ischemic damage is thirty-six percent. Aim: goal of research had been to assess perioperative myocardial protective impact of dexmedetomidine and magnesium sulphate in high‑risk studied cases undergoing aortic vascular surgery. Methods: This randomized double blinded research had been being done in cardiothoracic & vascular surgery center, Mansoura university from May 2023 to October 2023 after approval from institutional review board of faculty of Medicine Mansoura University with obtaining a written informed consent from all studied cases. …

Ultrasound Guided Nerve Block In Cervicogenic Headache, Zeinab Adel Ghorab, Azza Elmongui, Ahmed Azab, Osama Elshafei

Mansoura Medical Journal

Background: Cervicogenic headache (CGH) has been considered as a common type of headache all over the world. There are a lot of therapeutic modalities for Cervicogenic headache either non-invasive or invasive strategies. Based on the original cause of pain, there are several approaches of local or regional anesthesia injections comprising nerve root injections, trigger point blocks, peripheral nerve blocks, or facet blocks Aim: To assess the efficacy of the ultrasound (US)-guided greater occipital nerve (GON ) block in Cervicogenic headache . Methods: The study was designed as a prospective interventional study that included 50 patients with Cervicogenic headache after fulfillment …

Prevalence Of Colorectal Polyps And Associated Risk Factors In Egyptian Population: A Single Center Study, Hossam El Refaey, Hazem Hakim, Ahmed Saed

Mansoura Medical Journal

Background: Intestinal polyps are noticeable mucosal outgrowths that extend into lumen of gastrointestinal tract. In adults, the most frequently detected polyps are adenomatous polyps which are thought to be precursors of large bowel cancer. Colonoscopy is the most widely accepted method for colon cancer screening. Early detection and removal of adenomas can significantly reduce risk of colorectal cancer hence; it is of great importance to evaluate the prevalence of colorectal polyps in Egyptian population by diagnostic colonoscopy and associated risk factors. Objective: detect the prevalence of colorectal polyps in Egyptian population and associated risk factors. Patients and Methods: A cross …

Value Of Optical Coherence Tomography And Optical Coherence Tomography Angiography In Relation To Disability Progression In Multiple Sclerosis Patients, Hossam Abd El-Nasser Kamal, Ahmed Effat Abbas Mohamed Saeid, Amgad Mahmoud El Nokrashy, Mohamed Galal El-Khateeb

Mansoura Medical Journal

Background: Optical coherence tomography (OCT) and OCT-angiography (OCT-A) permit quantification of retinal layer atrophy relevant to multiple sclerosis (MS) progression. Methods: We conducted this case-control study to assess of the changes in OCT and OCTA measures in relation to the duration of MS and the expanded disability status scale (EDSS). A total of 70 MS patients compared to 35 healthy controls were enrolled. Results: According to OCT findings, there was a significantly lower mean value of retinal nerve fiber layer thickness (RNFL) and ganglion cell complex (GCC) in the MS patients group compared to the control group with p1.5 exhibited …

The Effect Of Adding Magnesium Sulphate Versus Dexmedetomidine As An Adjuvant To Bupivacaine In Ultrasound Rectus Sheath Block On Postoperative Analgesia In Patients Undergoing Abdominal Aortic Surgery, Ghada Fouad Amer, Mohamed Younes Yousef Abd Allah

Mansoura Medical Journal

Background: With significant advancements in the area, post-operative pain management after abdominal procedures has garnered attention lately. Despite these developments, post-operative pain is still difficult to manage and is sometimes not sufficiently addressed, which causes worry, tension, and discontent in the patient. In addition to having negative medical impacts, inadequate pain management may also have negative psychological, economic, and societal repercussions. Aim and objectives: To assess the analgesic impacts of dexmedetomidine against magnesium sulphate when used as a bupivacaine adjuvant during ultrasound-guided bilateral rectus sheath block during abdominal aortic surgery. Patients and methods: Over the course of five months, 40 …

Ephedrine Versus Norepinephrine Infusion For Prevention Of Haemodynamic Instability After Declamping Of The Aorta In Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm Repair, Mohamed Younes Yousef Abd Allah, Maha Younes Youssef Abd-Allah, Mohamed E. Elshehawi, Ka Awad

Mansoura Medical Journal

Background: During general anesthesia, hypotension is often experienced and is linked to both postoperative morbidity and death. Anesthesiologists have long had a hurdle while performing abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) repair, a high-risk treatment that increases vulnerability to hemodynamic disturbances during open surgery. A common vasopressor that is a combined α- and β-agonist, ephedrine is used to treat hypotension in general anesthesia. Conversely, norepinephrine has a favorable chronotropic impact on the heart in addition to acting as an agonist for both α and ß receptors. Aim of the work: Examine the differences in the effects of intravenous ephedrine hydrochloride and noradrenaline …

Serum Trefoil Factor 3 As A Diagnostic Marker Of Hepatocellular Carcinoma Related To Chronic Hepatitis C Cirrhosis, Mohammed El Hagrasy, Ashraf Omar, Hosam Abdel Twab, Ahmed Saed

Mansoura Medical Journal

Background: Liver cancer, specifically Hepatocellular Carcinoma (HCC), is a main cause of cancer-related deaths globally. Early detection of HCC is also a significant challenge. Our research aimed to examine serum trefoil factor 3 (TFF3) level compared to alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) in diagnosis and prognosis of HCC and other hepatitis C virus (HCV)-related liver diseases. Methods: This single-center prospective study was performed at a Specialized Medical Hospital, Faculty of Medicine, Mansoura University, over a duration of 6 months from May to October 2021. The study consisted of 35 cases with HCC on top of cirrhosis, 35 with HCV-induced cirrhosis, and 20 healthy …

Making Sense Of Big (Kinematic) Data: A Comprehensive Analysis Of Movement Parameters In A Diverse Population, Naomi Wilma Nunis

University of the Pacific Theses and Dissertations

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this study was to determine how kinematic, big data can be evaluated using computational, comprehensive analysis of movement parameters in a diverse population.

METHODS

Retrospective data was collected, cleaned, and reviewed for further analysis of biomechanical movement in an active population using 3D collinear resistance loads. The active sample of the population involved in the study ranged from age 7 to 82 years old and respectively identified as active in 13 different sports. Moreover, a series of exercises were conducted by each participant across multiple sessions. Exercises were measured and recorded based on 6 distinct biometric …

Gut-Lung Axis Of The Microbiome Alterations After Ultrafine Particles And Ozone Inhalation, Md Habibul Hasan Mazumder

Graduate Theses, Dissertations, and Problem Reports (ETD)

Air pollution poses a significant threat to public health. It is a mixture of particulate matter, gaseous substances, and other secondary substances. Despite epidemiological research indicating the interactive effects of various components of air pollution, existing studies and regulatory limits often focus on single-exposure scenarios. The emerging understanding of the microbiome’s role in regulating immune response, metabolism, and pathophysiology of various diseases points towards interactions between environmental exposures and microbial dysbiosis. In this dissertation, mice were exposed to relevant deposited doses of carbon black (CB) and ozone (O3), and lung inflammation as well as the lung-gut axis of the microbiome …

Spiking Neural Network That Maps From Generalized Coordinates To Cartesian Coordinates, Chloe K. Guie

Graduate Theses, Dissertations, and Problem Reports (ETD)

In this thesis, I look to understand how insects compute task-level quantities by integrating range-fractionated sensory signals to create a sparse-spatial coding of Cartesian positions. I created biologically plausible 2-D and 3-D models of one species of the stick insect (Carausius morosus) leg and encoded the foot position through a spiking neural network. This model used spiking afferents from three angles of an insect leg which are integrated by one non-spiking interneuron. This model contains many dendritic compartments and one somatic compartment that encode the foot’s position relative to the body. The Functional Subnetwork Approach (FSA) was used …

Quantifying The Impacts Of Genetically Engineered Crops And Deep Soil C Cycling On The Sustainability Of Bioenergy Crop Production, Zoe Pagliaro

Graduate Theses, Dissertations, and Problem Reports (ETD)

Bioenergy can help mitigate climate change by providing a carbon-neutral fuel source. However, multiple challenges exist to achieving carbon neutrality including converting lignocellulosic materials to fuel and enhancing soil C sequestration during the growth of the feedstocks. To address these challenges, there have been recent efforts to genetically modify feedstocks to produce more energy dense oils that increase fuel conversion efficiency and to cultivate deep-rooted perennial feedstocks that can enhance soil C storage. However, the C consequences and efficacy of these solutions remain largely uncertain.

To examine the C consequences of enhancing oil content of bioenergy feedstocks, I examined the …

Ubiquitination Of The Protocadherin-Γa3 Variable Cytoplasmic Domain Modulates Cell-Cell Interaction, Albert Ptashnik, Nicole Lamassa, Aliya Mambetalieva, Emily Schnall, Mike Bucaro, Greg R. Phillips

Publications and Research

The family of ∼60 clustered protocadherins (Pcdhs) are cell adhesion molecules encoded by a genomic locus that regulates expression of distinct combinations of isoforms in individual neurons resulting in what is thought to be a neural surface “barcode” which mediates same-cell interactions of dendrites, as well as interactions with other cells in the environment. Pcdh mediated same-cell dendrite interactions were shown to result in avoidance while interactions between different cells through Pcdhs, such as between neurons and astrocytes, appear to be stable. The cell biological mechanism of the consequences of Pcdh based adhesion is not well understood although various signaling …