Life Sciences Commons^™

Jbs’S Initial Public Offering: Threats To Environmental And Human Rights, Kayla Thompson

Indiana Journal of Law and Social Equality

This paper centers around the decision to be made regarding JBS, the world’s largest meat company, wanting to list shares on the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE), and the environmental and social impacts that could result from the Security and Exchange Commission’s (SEC) approval. JBS has been at the center of various controversies over the last several years, including sourcing cattle from ranches acquired through illegal deforestation, engaging in greenwashing practices, incorrectly reporting greenhouse gas emissions, and engaging in human rights abuses. Many environmental groups have filed complaints with the SEC concerning JBS’s bid to list on the NYSE. The …

The Relevance Of Dnajb1 Protein Dimerization Against The Human Neurodegenerative Diseases, Erina Kotreli, Trang Le, Szymon Ciesielski

Dean's Leadership Council Library Research Prize

All biological functions in living organisms depend on the activity of proteins, long molecules that must twist and fold into specific shapes to become functional. A subset of proteins known as molecular chaperones is essential for maintaining cellular health by assisting other proteins in folding correctly and refolding those damaged by stress. When proteins misfold and clump together, they can form toxic aggregates linked to many neurodegenerative diseases, including Alzheimer’s disease (AD), one of the leading causes of death in the United States. In AD, these protein aggregates form organized, elongated structures referred to as amyloid-like fibrils, which damage neurons …

Analysis Of The Microbiome Of Amblyomma Americanum In The Statesboro Region, Ella Zierdt, Lorenza Beati, Mary Humphrey, Saviour Dralabu

Honors College Theses

The lone star tick, Amblyomma americanum, is the most common tick in Georgia. It is mainly known as an Ehrlichia spp. vector, but its microbiome can be diverse, depending on geography, developmental stage, and season. Little is known about bacterial diversity in ticks from the southeastern U.S. A Nanopore MinION sequencer was used for a preliminary analysis of the bacterial microbiome in A. americanum from the Statesboro region. DNA was extracted from 39 nymphs, 35 males, and 39 females. DNA samples were pooled by month of collection and life stage/sex, amplified with barcoded 16SrDNA primers, and sequenced. Approx. 77% …

Are Blow Flies (Diptera: Calliphoridae) Active Nocturnally In South Georgia?, Breana R. Manning

Honors College Theses

Medicolegal forensic entomology uses insect colonization of remains to estimate minimum post-mortem intervals (mPMI). Blow flies (Diptera: Calliphoridae) are among the earliest colonizers, yet their nocturnal activity remains poorly understood. This study aimed to determine whether blow flies are active at night and whether artificial light influences their behavior. Using baited bottle traps in both artificially lit and unlit environments near Georgia Southern University, flies were collected over two trials in fall 2024. Of the 1,843 blow flies collected, only six were captured at night (0.003%), suggesting minimal nocturnal activity. Lucilia coeruleiviridis preferred unlit environments. In contrast, Cochliomyia macellaria was …

The Role Of Horizontal Gene Transfer In Antibiotic Resistance Amidst Prevalent Community And Healthcare-Associated Mrsa Rates, Gabrielle Nascimento

Honors College Theses

In recent decades, cases of community-acquired MRSA (CA-MRSA) and healthcare-associated MRSA (HA-MRSA) have been on the rise. The ability of antibiotic resistance to transfer between microorganisms greatly expands its threat to the effective treatment and containment of bacterial infections. The mecA gene is found on a mobile cassette within the Staphylococcal cell and encodes for PBP2a, an alternate version of penicillin-binding protein (PBP) with less binding affinity for β-lactam antibiotics, increasing resistance to the effects of antibiotics. The goal of this research is to investigate the horizontal transfer of the mecA gene between various Staphylococcus species as well as to …

Methyl-Cpg-Binding Domain As A Protein Interaction Partner In Promoter Regulation And Neurodevelopment Through Evolutionary Expanded Entanglement, Stephanie M. Bilinovich, Surya B. Chhetri, Jackson T. Mitchell, Gage O. Leighton, Vladislav Jdanov, Jacob K. Zieba, Taylor W. Cook, Krysta L. Engel, Robert M. Vaughan, Humza Bhatti, Sadie L. Heeringa, Amy M. Wilstermann, Sophie Vanderweele, Akansha S. Das, Emily C. Sherry, Stephen A. Duncan, Katie L. Uhl, David C. Hinds, Mark Mackiewicz, Sarah K. Meadows, Kimberly M. Newberry, E. Christopher Partridge, Sara G. Cline, C. Joy Shepard, D. Casey Smith, Antonio Bradley, Daniel Vogt, Daniel B. Campbell, Lucas Pozzo-Miller, Caleb P. Bupp, Austin J. Goodyke, Surender Rajasekaran, Rebecca C. Knickmeyer, Benjie Blair

Research, Publications & Creative Work

There is increasing evidence that the methyl-binding domain (MBD) is a protein-protein interaction motif that can function independently of methylated DNA binding. The MBD proteins found throughout plants and invertebrates duplicated into multiple vertebrate DNA and non-DNA-binding members (MBD1, MBD2, MBD3, MBD4, MBD5, MBD6, MECP2, BAZ2A, BAZ2B, SETDB1, andSETDB2). Although many invertebrate species possess MBD proteins that can bind and recognize DNA methylation, the DNA-binding function has been independently lost multiple times, with only minor alterations to the protein interaction residues. The nucleosome remodeling and deacetylase (NuRD) complex, which interacts with MBD2/3 and is colocalized with MBD1/4 ChIP-Seq, is maintained …

Seagrasses Are Most Vulnerable To Marine Heatwaves In Tropical Zones: Local-Scale And Broad Climatic Zone Variation In Thermal Tolerances, Nicole Said, Chanelle Webster, Simone Strydom, Natasha Dunham, Matthew P. Adams, Kathryn Mcmahon

Research outputs 2022 to 2026

Under a changing climate, it is imperative that we understand how species may respond to temperature impacts, which can differ among populations of the same species due to local drivers. Thermal tolerance data, which can be used to assess an organism's upper thermal limits, is valuable to identify species and/or populations' susceptibility to thermal stress. This study assessed the variation in thermal tolerance of six seagrass species at both broad latitudinal (c. 500–1000 km) and local scales (c. 25 km). Photosynthesis–temperature curves (15–45°C) were conducted, by measuring oxygen in closed incubation chambers, and thermal optima (Topt) was extracted. We found …

Global Patterns And Drivers Of Seagrass Biomass, Net Primary Production And Meadow Structure, Nicole R. Foster, Enric Gomis, Diana I. Montemayor, Simone Strydom, Miguel Angel Mateo, Eduard Serrano, Aurora M. Ricart, Martin Dahl, Ines Mazarrasa, Paulina Cisternas, Harry Whiteley, Elliott J. Bates, Viena Puigcorbé, Uxue Moreda, Mar Truc, Karina Inostroza, Rafael Huertas, Roisin Mccallum, Anna Lafratta, Chanelle L. Webster, Caitlyn M. O'Dea, Nicole E. Said, Carlos M. Duarte, Paul S. Lavery, Oscar Serrano

Research outputs 2022 to 2026

Aim: We decipher global patterns in seagrass growth and structure to advance seagrass science, facilitate multidisciplinary research, and promote effective management strategies and policy development for seagrass habitats. Location: Global. Time period: 1975 to 2024. Major taxa studied: Seagrasses—marine angiosperms. Methods: A global data set on seagrass total biomass, total net primary productivity (NPP), shoot density, and percent cover was compiled across 11 genera. We tested how these variables change across seagrass genera, life-history strategy, and geographic location; and then modelled the environmental drivers (temperature, nutrients, light availability) of the patterns observed. Results: The mean (±SE) total biomass of seagrasses …

Pre-Storage Application Of Oxalic Acid And Modified Atmosphere Packaging Delays Degradation Of Cell Wall Polysaccharides In Persimmon Fruit, Mahmood Ul Hasan, Zora Singh, Hafiz Muhammad Shoaib Shah, Eben Afrifa-Yamoah, Andrew Woodward, Jashanpreet Kaur

Research outputs 2022 to 2026

Persimmon is a climacteric fruit that is highly prone to chilling injury (CI) and softening, which limits its long-term marketability. This study investigated the effectiveness of treatments on persimmon fruit: a 5 mM oxalic acid (OA) dip treatment for 2 min, modified atmosphere packaging (MAP), their combination (OA + MAP), and untreated fruits were considered as control, followed by storage at 0 ± 1 °C for up to 60 days with subsequent 1 day at shelf conditions. The combined OA + MAP treatment alleviated CI incidence, followed by MAP alone and OA treatment in persimmon fruit. Additionally, the OA + …

Volumetric Comparison Of Overall Brain And Neuropil Size Between Social And Non-Social Spiders: Exploring The Social Brain Hypothesis, Vanessa Penna-Gonçalves, Donald James Mclean, Nikolas J. Willmott, Michael B.J. Kelly, Jay R. Black, Elizabeth C. Lowe, Marie E. Herberstein

Research outputs 2022 to 2026

The social brain hypothesis predicts that the relative size of specific brain regions is driven by the cognitive capacity required to manage complex (social) situations. Spiders are intriguing models to test this hypothesis, as sociality is rare in this usually solitary and aggressive group. Here, we used microCT to compare the central nervous system and brain volumes between social and solitary females of the species in two taxonomic groups, huntsman and crab spiders. Overall, we found no difference in relative CNS and brain volume between social and solitary species. However, social huntsman spiders Delena cancerides had larger arcuate and mushroom …

Decreasing Food Waste In Home Kitchens By Increasing Food Literacy, Thao Rich

Student Publications

In a world that produces enough food for all of its occupants, a staggering amount of it bypasses empty stomachs and goes into landfills every day. There it sits in a plastic bag, which delays decomposition and increases the harmful greenhouse gas emissions. There are numerous reasons for the inequitable distribution of food ranging from politics to logistics, but the fact is that each person can make a dent in reducing their carbon footprint by simply reducing the amount of food they place in the trash each week. Food waste reduction is a small goal that requires no additional spending, …

How Can University-Community Partnerships Strengthen Food Literacy To Improve Food Access And Food System Resilience In Rhode Island?, Jocelyn Furtado

Student Publications

Nearly two out of every five households in Rhode Island experience difficulties accessing adequate and nutritious food, falling into the category of food insecure. While it is not the responsibility of a sole organization to reverse this complex systemic issue, collaborative efforts are a step toward combating food insecurity and systems resilience through improving food literacy. When accomplished within a community, adequate food literacy can combat food insecurity. To the same effect, food insecurity may cause a lack of food literacy.

To hone in on the relationship of food literacy as it relates to food insecurity and food systems resilience, …

Preharvest Methyl Jasmonate Application Regulates Ripening, Colour Development And Improves Phytochemical Quality Of Fruits: A Review, Mahmood Ul Hasan, Zora Singh, Hafiz Muhammad Shoaib Shah, Jashanpreet Kaur, Andrew Woodward, Eben Afrifa-Yamoah, Mekhala Dinushi Kananke Vithana

Research outputs 2022 to 2026

Jasmonic acid (JA) and its methyl ester, methyl jasmonate (MeJA), are increasingly being recognised as unique phytohormones, linked to a variety of physiological and molecular functions. Endogenous concentrations of jasmonates (JAs) vary among plant parts, stages of fruit development, maturity, ripening and during the postharvest period. MeJA expresses prime cellular responses, where as an elicitor of secondary metabolite production, aids in inter-plant communications, regulates the biosynthesis of associated phytohormones, supports plant defence systems against pathogenic infections, and helps in abiotic stress conditions. The potential of MeJA has been extensively studied in modulating fruit ripening, enhancing colour development, and improving the …

Non-Line-Of-Sight Classification In Urban Areas Based On Machine Learning Algorithms, Mohamed Ali Ezzelarab, Mohamed Abdelazim Mohamed, Eman Abdelhalim, Ashraf Abosekeen

Mansoura Engineering Journal

Non-Line-Of-Sight (NLOS) and multipath errors are significant causes of poor accuracy in Global Navigation Satellite Systems (GNSS). These errors occur when satellite signals are diffracted or reflected by obstacles instead of traveling directly along the Line-Of-Sight (LOS), particularly in urban environments. Such diffracted or reflected signals can reach GNSS receivers, skewing pseudorange measurements and posing challenges to accurate GNSS positioning. This study introduces an innovative approach using supervised Machine Learning (ML) models to detect and mitigate NLOS error. To develop and validate these models, GNSS data collected during the smartLoc project from Frankfurt and Berlin in Germany were leveraged, representing …

Integrating Aerodynamic Behavior In The Design Process Through Digital Tools: An Architectural Pedagogic Exercise, Mahmoud M. Elghawaby

Mansoura Engineering Journal

Analyzing air movement in open spaces is essential for developing livable environments and fostering unique atmospheres. By visualizing this intangible element, designers can enhance spatial quality and explore innovative solutions. This article examines the integration of aerodynamic simulations of air movement into the design process of an architectural graduation project conducted at the Grenoble School of Architecture, in collaboration with the Cresson research team and the Design by Research Lab. The project focuses on designing living bridges over the Nile in Cairo as part of an international architecture competition.The pedagogical exercise comprised theoretical lectures complemented by simulation sessions, designed to …

Sustainable Hospitals Lighting Design Optimization To Enhance Patient Well-Being, Merna R. Ashac, Rania F. Ismail, Nasreen Fathy Abdelsalam

Mansoura Engineering Journal

This research investigates the critical role of lighting design in hospitals environments, focusing on its impact on patient outcomes and environmental sustainability. By integrating energy-efficient LEDs and natural light, the study aims to enhance patient well-being and staff performance. To achieve this, the research explores aligning artificial lighting with circadian rhythms to improve both patient outcomes and staff performance. Using mixed-methods approach, the research includes a literature review, case studies, and analysis using DIALux simulation software. The literature review achieves a framework for sustainable, human-centric lighting, while case studies provide practical insights into effective designs in patient rooms. DIALux simulations …

Strengthening Of R.C. Beams Subjected To Shear And Torsion Using Externally Bonded Cfrp Sheets, Hazem Elbakry, El-Tony Mahmoud El-Tony, Momen M. Ali

Mansoura Engineering Journal

The primary objective of this study was to examine the behavior of reinforced concrete beams subjected to shear and torsion and strengthened with external CFRP sheets. To achieve this, seven reinforced concrete beams with identical cross section dimensions (300 mm × 200 mm), shear span (530 mm) were fabricated and tested under combined shear and torsion. Similar flexural and shear reinforcements were used for all specimens. The experimental program included one control specimen, without CFRP sheets, and six strengthened specimens utilizing different strengthening configurations of CFRP sheets. The key variables in the study were the strengthening configuration and the width …

The Role Of Gis In Promoting The 15-Minute City Concept For Sustainable Urban Using Network Analysis (Case Study: El Rehab City), Eman Metwally, Yara Menshway, Farag Mohamed Zaki

Mansoura Engineering Journal

The 15-minute city concept emphasizes the importance of urban planning where essential services and amenities are accessible within a 15-minute walk or bike ride. Geographic Information Systems (GIS) provide powerful tools to evaluate and enhance this concept. This study applies a theoretical framework combined with quantitative methods, utilizing GIS-based network analysis to evaluate the accessibility of key services within a 15-minute walking and cycling distance. The goal is to identify critical amenities that support urban sustainability and mobility. In this case, GIS is used to model El Rehab’s Road network, pedestrian paths, and bike lanes. Network analysis techniques calculate the …

Monitoring And Analysing Billboards On The Ring Road In Cairo To Promote Energy Saving Behaviour, Sherif Elsayed Elsaid Mohamed

Mansoura Engineering Journal

Billboards in Egypt are one of the means of outdoor advertising widely used on highways for commercial or governmental purposes, and their spread has been observed on the ring road in an unsystematic manner, in addition to the use of very many lighting units in all areas. These billboards result in the consumption of large amounts of electricity, in addition to the non-compliance of some of the commercial institutions that own these billboards with the security and safety requirements for the places where the billboard is installed, as well as the methods of construction and installation, in addition to the …

Exploring The Role Of Cinema In Architectural Perception Of Biophilic Design., Walaa Abdou Abd Elrazik, Mona Awad Abu El-Enein, Mahmoud M. Saafan

Mansoura Engineering Journal

With rapid urbanization transforming the built environment, biophilic architecture offers a sustainable approach that integrates natural elements to promote well-being and ecological balance. As a powerful storytelling medium, cinema shapes architectural perceptions by depicting both the presence and absence of biophilic principles in future urban landscapes. This study investigates how cinematic depictions of biophilic architecture influence audience understanding and appreciation. Using film content analysis, case studies, and surveys of architectural professionals, this research examines selected film scenes, evaluating the emotional and perceptual impact of biophilic versus non-biophilic environments. Findings indicate that films effectively highlight key biophilic features such as natural …

Behaviour Of The Internal Rc Slab-Column Connection With Both Correct And Incorrect Reinforcing Details, Momen M. Ali, Abdelrhman B. Harraz, Walid H. Shalaby

Mansoura Engineering Journal

Flat slabs without beams are common slab systems due to their simple formwork and ability to accommodate reduced story heights. Reinforced concrete slab-column connections are critical, especially internal connections with the final roof slabs. This research aims to compare the correct and incorrect reinforcing details of internal slabcolumn connections and examine how they affect the connections' behaviour. One of the most common problems in reinforced concrete structures is incorrect reinforcing details of slab-column connections, which is caused by insufficient experience and a lack of quality control. For this reason, numerical research is carried out. FE models for eighteen (18) specimens …

Placemaking For Revitalizing Neglected Urban Open Spaces To Act Sustainable, The Third Settlement, New Cairo, Egypt, Reham Othman El Sayed, Rania Badawy Shokry

Mansoura Engineering Journal

A key approach to creating resilient cities is to scrutinize the existing urban fabric, redesign and placemaking unused urban spaces as multi-purpose spaces capable to improve Community-Based Urban Design. The study aims to investigates highlights the importance of possibility to increasing value of existing NUOS as an essential entry point for placemaking. IN addition, it is urging considering the unused spaces as a basis for formulating an urban greening policy and strategy in Cairo. To reach that the study identifies with co-operate with the city administrative apparatus a NUOS in area is considered relatively new in Egypt, and specifically in …

Enhancing Walking Culture In Egyptian Cities As An Approach To Energy Harvesting, Kareem M. Ali

Mansoura Engineering Journal

It has become possible to generate clean energy based on the physical effort of individuals, whether during the use of sports equipment or by converting kinetic energy (walking steps) into electricity instead of it being wasted effort. The World Health Organization’s recommendation to walk for at least half an hour daily helps to enhance public health. Therefore, the research proposes dedicating pathways within cities built with energy-generating technology from pedestrian movement and organizing regular walking races to help produce more electrical energy. This would provide part of the urban environment’s electricity needs, reduce the carbon footprint, and enhance public health. …

High Voltage Circuit Breaker Arc Modelling State Of Art, Raghdaa I. Elbahy, Ahmed M. Abdelbaset, Ebrahim A. Badran, Mansour H. Abdel-Rahman

Mansoura Engineering Journal

High-voltage (HV) circuit breakers (CBs) are critical for safe and reliable power system operation. However, electric arcs formed during current interruption pose a challenge due to their complex, non-linear behavior. These arcs can hinder CB efficiency and cause equipment damage. To address this, understanding and modeling arc properties are essential. This paper explores existing methods for modeling and simulating electric arcs in HV CBs, including physical, black box, and parameter models. By analyzing these approaches, the paper emphasizes the importance of arc modeling for CB optimization and outlines the physical, mathematical, and software requirements for effective modeling and simulation.

Geopolymer Concrete Performance Utilising Waste Glass: A Review, Al-Saeed Abdelsalam Maaty, Mariam Farouk Ghazy, Mohamed Gamal Eldmarny

Mansoura Engineering Journal

The cement and concrete industry significantly contribute to global environmental challenges, accounting for 8% of global carbon dioxide emissions and extensive resource depletion. Geopolymer concrete has emerged as a sustainable alternative, offering up to 80% reduction in carbon dioxide emissions compared to conventional concrete by utilizing industrial by-products such as fly ash and ground granulated blastfurnace slag. Additionally, over 130 million tons of glass are produced globally each year, with 79% discarded in landfills due to issues like color inconsistencies and compositional defects. Incorporating waste glass into geopolymer concrete addresses critical waste management issues while enhancing mechanical, durability, and microstructural …

Achieving Urban Resilience Strategies For Cities, Rehab Abdelfatah Abdel Aziz. Mahmoud

Mansoura Engineering Journal

The concept of the Resilient City is a relatively recent addition to urban planning discussions, gaining global attention due to the increasing need for cities to withstand urban, social, and environmental challenges. Urban resilience, alongside adaptability, plays a vital role in addressing these dynamic transformations. This research investigates how to implement urban resilience strategies to effectively respond to ongoing changes and sudden crises, such as terrorist attacks and natural disasters like floods, earthquakes, and hurricanes. The research identifies a critical gap in the absence of a comprehensive theoretical framework for evaluating the success of urban resilience strategies within cities’ planning …

Topographic Mapping Using Gps Functionality In The New Delta, Nasr M. Saba, Salem S. Saeh

Mansoura Engineering Journal

Topographic maps are essential for addressing geospatial challenges, offering precise, detailed information. Historically, they relied on analog surveying methods, which were labor-intensive, costly, and often inaccurate, involving outdated tools. This study evaluates the accuracy of topographic mapping techniques compared to traditional 1:50,000 scale maps for the New Delta in Egypt. The methodology uses a Global Positioning system post-processing kinematic GPS-PPK points in a 500m x 500m grid to create maps more efficiently in terms of time and cost. Elevation data was collected from 32 control points and two grids: a 500m x 500m GPS kinematic grid and a 25m x …

Computer Aided Detection System For Liver Cancer Using Computed Tomography Images Based On Artificial Intelligence, Noha Saad Badrawy, Hanan M. Amer, Apeer T. Khalil

Mansoura Engineering Journal

The prevalence of liver cancer has surged in Egypt and worldwide, leading to increased use of AI for tumor detection and diagnosis. The objective is to boost accuracy and minimize errors in manually classifying liver images, a task that is laborious and time-consuming. This study seeks to create a high-performance system for detecting liver tumors in Computed Tomography "CT" scans, utilizing Convolutional Neural Networks "CNNs" and machine learning, which are prevalent in biomedical imaging. With a dataset of 9,255 CT images, the research involves three steps. First, three deep learning models are compared: that Liver Tuned High-Resolution Network (LTHR-Net), Deep …

An Experimental Study On Durability Properties Of Reactive Powder Concrete Containing Silica Fume And Fly Ash As Supplementary Cementitious Materials, Ayat Mohamed Hassan Taha, Mohamed Hussain Ali Makhlouf, Khaled Mohamed El-Sayed, Gamal Ismaail Khaleel

Mansoura Engineering Journal

The paper reports the influence of using silica fume (SF) and fly ash (FA) as supplementary cementitious materials (SCMs) on the durability properties of reactive powder concrete (RPC), focusing on sorptivity, ultrasonic pulse velocity (UPV), and carbonation depth. The study additionally compares the performance of RPC with highstrength concrete (HSC) to assess the relative benefits of RPC. A total of 19 mixtures, including 17 RPC and 2 HSC mixtures, were evaluated. Parameters such as volume of binder content (45%, 50%, 55%, and 60%), water-binder ratios (20%, 25%, and 30%), and SCM proportions (0%, 10%, 20%, and 30%) were varied; these …

Realization Of Water Tidal Datum Levels From Observed Sea Level Data In Damietta Harbor, Egypt, Mohamed M. Helmy, Amr N. Shokry, Mohamed M. Youssef, Ahmed M. Khedr

Mansoura Engineering Journal

Sea level is an essential oceanographic parameter in hydrographic surveying that is always necessary for the realization of Chart Datum (CD). The International Hydrographic Organization (IHO) defines sea levels as those expected to occur under typical meteorological conditions, regardless of any possible combination of astronomical conditions. The current research focuses on analysing the observed sea level in Damietta Harbor, using two sets of sea-level records obtained from two sensors: a pressure sensor and a radar sensor. These records were collected from a tide gauge station located at Damietta Harbor from July 1, 2019, to March 2, 2020. Furthermore, harmonic analysis …