Biology Commons^™

Brachial Plexus Lesions: Uncommon Causes And Clinical Sequelae, Lucy Greenhagen

Biology and Microbiology Graduate Students Plan B Research Projects

The brachial plexus is a complex network of nerves that transmit motor and sensory information between the spinal cord and upper extremities. Brachial plexus lesions may be caused by a broad range of congential and traumatic conditions. These lesions present a challenge to healthcare providers both for diagnosis and treatment. While variations in the brachial plexus have been widely reported, resources outlining the prevenance and involvement of anatomical variation along with their possible clinical presentation are more limited. The objective of this review is to describe uncommon causes of brachial plexus lesions and the clinical challenges they present for providers. …

Alternative Treatments And Potential Cures For Type 1 Diabetes, Dillon Peterson

Biology and Microbiology Graduate Students Plan B Research Projects

Type 1 diabetes (T1D) is an autoimmune disease that affects multitudes of people without a cost-effective cure. T1D is caused by the immune system reaching a threshold where it then begins to attack the beta cells in the pancreas causing inflammation, which eventually leads to the death of beta cells. Once a large majority of the beta cells die off, the pancreas begins to inadequately supply insulin to the body, which is when the symptoms of T1D begin to emerge. To treat these symptoms, the person must utilize synthetic insulin. The utilization of synthetic insulin, along with the plethora of …

Epilepsy: Etiology And Treatment Methods, Avital Nightingale

The Science Journal of the Lander College of Arts and Sciences

Epilepsy is a common neurological disorder that is caused by abnormal electrical activity in the brain. Due to the evolution of our understanding of epilepsy and its causes, a variety of therapeutic options have been developed to modulate seizures and limit their occurrence rate. Medication, diet and surgery have been the traditional treatments offered to individuals suffering from epilepsy but the latest advancements in neurotechnology have given patients with drug resistant epilepsy hope by providing options other than surgery. While the disorder is a complex one and its pathogenesis not yet fully understood, recent research has provided insight into the …

Strategies To Address The Growing Impact Of The Antibiotic Resistance Crisis, Rina Balter

The Science Journal of the Lander College of Arts and Sciences

As time progresses, more bacterial strains are becoming resistant to the antibiotics developed to treat them. Impeding such intractable infections should be a major clinical priority, as previously treatable diseases have begun to incur a fatality rate that will escalate catastrophically unless it is halted. This research paper explores relevant information regarding the advances in developing alternative strategies to antibiotics to combat antimicrobial resistant (AMR) bacteria, within the context of clinical application. Recognizing the profound impact antimicrobial resistance (AMR) will have on patient health enables the implementation of proactive measures to curb the expanding prevalence of multidrug-resistant (MDR) pathogens. This …

Is Placenta Stem Cell Banking Worthwhile?, Chaya Nathan

The Science Journal of the Lander College of Arts and Sciences

Regenerative medicine has gained significant traction due to its potential to repair or replace damaged tissues and organs, with stem cell therapies emerging as a promising avenue for treating various diseases. While bone marrow-derived MSCs (BM-MSCs) are commonly used in clinical settings, their limitations, such as the invasive extraction procedure and limited proliferation capacity, underscore the need for alternative stem cell sources. Placenta-derived mesenchymal stem cells (PDMSCs) represent a promising solution, offering advantages such as greater proliferative capacity, faster expansion rates, and reduced risk of immune rejection compared to adult stem cells. The placenta is a rich source of MSCs, …

Limb Regeneration In Amphibians & Mammals, Jacob Mamrout

The Science Journal of the Lander College of Arts and Sciences

This thesis will give an in-depth analysis into the mechanisms of regeneration that amphibians use and how the blastema forms. It will also discuss genes and proteins that play a role including the P53 gene, Transforming Growth Factor Beta, CD59, and others. Regenerative potential of mammals will be discussed using the information found. Findings include that mammals may have regeneration potential because of the ability we have to deactivate certain genes to allow cells to dedifferentiate.

Gut Microbiome Dysbiosis And Its Contribution To Carcinogenesis, Daphne Grabie

The Science Journal of the Lander College of Arts and Sciences

The gut microbiome, a diverse community of microorganisms within the gastrointestinal (GI) tract, plays a pivotal role in maintaining health through digestion, immune regulation, and homeostasis. Emerging evidence links gut microbiome dysbiosis—a disruption in its composition and function—to the development and progression of various cancers, particularly within the GI tract. This review explores the multifaceted relationship between the gut microbiome and carcinogenesis, highlighting key microbial mechanisms, including chronic inflammation, production of carcinogenic metabolites, and immune modulation. Specific pathogens such as Fusobacterium nucleatum, Escherichia coli, and Helicobacter pylori are implicated in colorectal, gastric, and esophageal cancers, respectively, through pathways that promote …

Battling Infertility, Shirah Abrahams

The Science Journal of the Lander College of Arts and Sciences

Infertility is a complex condition that affects men and women equally and is defined by failure to achieve pregnancy after a year of trying to conceive. This paper addresses both environmental contributions to infertility, such as the effects of smoking, poor nutrition, and exposure to radiation, as well as biological contributors. Biological factors that contribute to infertility include sperm DNA fragmentation, chromosomal mutations, anovulatory dysfunction, and tubule blockages. This paper delves into various treatment options to improve fertility in both males and females, including medications, lifestyle adaptations, and surgeries. These treatment options can restore and improve ovulatory function, sperm motility …

Mild Traumatic Brain Injury: Signs, Symptoms, And Intervention, Shoshana Levin

The Science Journal of the Lander College of Arts and Sciences

Mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI) is a specific type of brain injury, often referred to as a concussion. Relying on existing research, this paper will collect the data that is available on concussions, numerous methods of treatment, and the complications of repeated injury. mTBI precipitates a host of cognitive, physical, and emotional symptoms, all of which can severely affect one’s daily life if left untreated. This paper will also address a range of possible treatment methods, including but not limited to acupuncture, cognitive behavioral therapy, and physical therapy. The efficacy of a multifaceted approach to treatment is emphasized, combining opinions …

Full Issue: Volume 18, Number 2, Spring 2025

The Science Journal of the Lander College of Arts and Sciences

Complete .pdf file of Volume 18, Number 2 of The Science Journal of the Lander College of Arts and Sciences. Published Spring 2025.

Full Issue: Volume 19, Number 1, Fall 2025

The Science Journal of the Lander College of Arts and Sciences

Complete .pdf file of Volume 19, Number 1 of The Science Journal of the Lander College of Arts and Sciences. Published Fall 2025.

Does Chronic Stress Play A Role In The Genesis Of Neurodegenerative Diseases?, Rachelle Halpert

The Science Journal of the Lander College of Arts and Sciences

Chronic stress has been increasingly recognized as a major contributor to the onset and progression of neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease. This paper explores the correlation between chronic stress and neurodegeneration by reviewing population, clinical, and animal studies. Studies show that long-term stress disrupts the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, impairs hippocampal function, increases oxidative stress, and promotes neuroinflammation. These processes are all implicated in cognitive decline. The mechanisms through which these processes occur are discussed including elevated glucocorticoid levels, shortened telomeres, mitochondrial dysfunction, and the activity of pro-inflammatory microglia. Lastly, potential interventions are reviewed, including lifestyle modifications such …

Can Deadly Toxins Become Tools For Medicine?, Esther Gross

The Science Journal of the Lander College of Arts and Sciences

Natural toxins, long feared as deadly poison, are increasingly being harnessed as powerful medicine. This paper explores the growing role of animal and plant toxins in modern medicine, tracing their use from ancient remedies to cutting-edge biomedical science. Through a study of their biochemical mechanisms, therapeutic applications, and clinical case histories, this paper draws attention to the remarkable specificity and potency of toxin-derived compounds for disease treatment in diabetes, chronic pain, cancer, cardiovascular disease, etc. This paper also investigates the scientific and practical barriers to the universal clinical application of toxins, such as issues of toxicity, cost, stability, and ethical …

Endometriosis & Natural Killer Cell Activity, Orelle Shakarchi

The Science Journal of the Lander College of Arts and Sciences

Endometriosis is a condition found in females of reproductive age. It occurs when tissue, known as the endometrium, grows outside of its designated place- the uterus. It affects the reproductive organs such as the ovaries, fallopian tubes, and pelvic tissues. Endometriosis patients experience chronic pain and fertility issues. There has been a correlation between low cytotoxicity in Natural Killer (NK) cells and the development of the disease. NK cells are part of the human innate immunity system where they defend the body against tumors and any abnormal cells by performing apostasies A study done by the American Fertility Society, which …

Should Crispr Be Available As A Widespread Gene Therapy For Humans?, Mirel Leifer

The Science Journal of the Lander College of Arts and Sciences

The CRISPR/Cas gene editing tool was discovered in 2012 and since then has been researched extensively. It has many applications in the research and medical world and has been the topic of many discussions since its discovery. This paper describes several of the advantages of CRISPR; what it has been used for and the potential that it contains. Among those advantages are sickle cell treatment, Alzheimer’s treatment, coupling CRISPR with induced pluripotent stem cells(iPSCs), and the cancer battle. Also discussed in this paper are number of concerns that surround this new gene therapy. Among those are medical concerns and ethical …

Does Prenatal Stress Have Prenatal And Life-Long Effects?, Miriam Lavizadeh

The Science Journal of the Lander College of Arts and Sciences

Maternal prenatal stress (MPS) has a unique impact on the developing fetus and the child’s life post birth. Pregnancy is a highly anxious time for a lot of women. Many have pregnancy related concerns as well as overall stress from environmental and societal factors. However, this takes a toll on the fetus’s development which can later cause different cognitive and health outcomes in the child. During a time of stress, one’s HPA axis gets activated causing the release of various hormones, particularly cortisol and catecholamines. These hormones can cross the placental barrier called HSD11B2-11β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase 2, exposing the sensitive and …

The Role Of The Gut–Brain Axis In Irritable Bowel Syndrome, Malky Weiss

The Science Journal of the Lander College of Arts and Sciences

The gastrointestinal (GI) system and the brain share a highly integrated relationship mediated by the gut–brain axis, with implications across a range of medical disciplines. Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is the most prevalent disorder of gut brain interaction (DGBI) which affects a significant portion of the global population, yet its pathophysiology has historically been poorly understood. This review examines the development and maintenance of IBS, drawing on literary sources to explore the gut–brain axis and disease expression which occurs as a result of its dysfunction. Common pathological features of IBS include visceral hypersensitivity, altered serotonin signaling, inappropriate immune activation, and …

What Are The Long-Term Health Implications Of Living Kidney Donation?, Yehudis Fasten

The Science Journal of the Lander College of Arts and Sciences

Living kidney donation is the optimal long-term treatment for patients with end-stage renal disease (ESRD), also known as end-stage kidney disease (ESKD). However, it also raises concerns regarding the long-term health of donors. This paper explores the potential risks that living kidney donors (LKDs) may face, focusing on the potential development of ESRD and post-donation pregnancy risks, especially in relation to established ESRD risk factors such as hypertension and diabetes mellitus. It also examines the impact of genetic and familial predispositions, structural kidney changes, and proteinuria as contributors to future decline in kidney function. Concerns including reductions in erythropoietin (EPO) …

Implant Alternatives: The Advancements Of Stem Cells In Regenerative Dentistry, Akiva Goldschmidt

The Science Journal of the Lander College of Arts and Sciences

This research paper explores the potential of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) within the realm of dentistry, focusing particularly on their ability to repair tissues and regenerate entire teeth. MSCs are significant as they can send differentiation signals to nearby cells and release growth factors such as TGF-β and VEGF, which promote cellular activities necessary for dental repair and regeneration. The paper discusses the traditional methods of dental restoration, such as fillings and implants, and their inherent limitations. It then transitions to exploring innovative strategies that utilize MSCs to overcome these challenges and regenerate tooth structures including enamel, dentin, and periodontal …

Novel Pharmacotherapies For Treatment-Resistant Depression: Lysergic Acid Diethylamide (Lsd), Eliana Cohen

The Science Journal of the Lander College of Arts and Sciences

Treatment Resistant Depression has become extremely prevalent with 30% of depression cases being unresolvable. Psychedelics specifically Lysergic Acid Diethylamide has been a newfound unconventional approach that has demonstrated significant benefits for depression. LSD is a hallucinogenic drug mainly acting on the serotonin receptors that leads to altered sensory and perception affecting mood. This research paper comprehensively examines animal and human studies on LSD’s healing properties and enduring effects. The studies find that LSD induces neuroplasticity, and alters gene expressions associated with synaptogenesis and neurogenesis. Additionally LSD affects the activity of different neurotransmitters in the central nervous system enhancing mood. Lastly …

Virtual Reality Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (Cbt) For Chronic Lower Back Pain, Peri Feinberg

The Science Journal of the Lander College of Arts and Sciences

No abstract provided.

Embryonic Stem Cells Vs Induced Pluripotent Stem Cells For Tissue Engineering, Devora Weinstein

The Science Journal of the Lander College of Arts and Sciences

Both embryonic stem cells (ESCs) and induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) are pluripotent, meaning that they can give rise to many types of cells. Consequently, they both represent incredible potential for applications in regenerative medicine and research models. This paper explores their similarities and critical molecular differences, especially in the context of tissue engineering. Through analysis of three peer-reviewed studies, the paper focuses on their respective advantages and limitations. One study used Raman spectroscopy to reveal higher nucleic acid content in iPSCs, possibly due to epigenetic memory. The second study utilized DNA methylation profiling and gene expression data to construct …

Factors Mediating The Reproductive Risk For Balanced Chromosomal Translocation Carriers, Talia Alter

The Science Journal of the Lander College of Arts and Sciences

Reciprocal balanced translocations occur when one part of a chromosome is exchanged with another, resulting in zero net loss of genetic material. While individuals with a balanced translocation are phenotypically normal, a translocation can cause increased risk of infertility, recurrent pregnancy loss, and the birth of a child with unbalanced chromosomes. In order to adequately guide an individual in their reproductive decisions, geneticists must be able to assess the risk of the patient’s unique translocation. An analysis of three recent studies reveals several factors which play a role in mediating the effects of balanced translocations and directly affect reproductive risk …

Anthropocene Genetic Diversity Loss In The Marine Tropics, René D. Clark, Brendan N. Reid, Eric Garcia, Marial Malabag, Robin S. Waples, Rene A. Abesamis, Jemelyn Grace P. Baldisimo, Abner A. Bucol, Kyra S. Fitz, Sharon F. Magnuson, Richard N. Muallil, Cleto L. Nanola Jr., Roy Roberts, John C. Whalen, Christopher E. Bird, Kent E. Carpenter, Malin L. Pinsky

Biological Sciences Faculty Publications

Genetic diversity is a crucial component of biodiversity, and as such, its maintenance and preservation is of high conservation concern. Tropical environments are undergoing intense rates of environmental change, and these changes may be driving large declines in genetic diversity. However, data on genetic diversity are highly skewed towards temperate regions. The degree to which diversity loss has occurred in tropical species, particularly marine species, remains an open and important question. Here, we directly compare genomic data from modern and museum collections of two commercially-harvested nearshore marine fishes (Equulites laterofenestra and Gazza minuta) gathered from a single location …

Toll-Like Receptor Signaling In Neurons Modulates C. Elegans Feeding Behavior In A Hunger State-Dependent Manner, Neel Patel, Joseph Rios, Retwika Ganguly, Cindy Mutafoglu, Nour Shalash, Karla Gallardo, Malak Saleh, John Chahine, Emily Kopecky, Gursimran Gujral, Kamya Shah, Christos Suriano

Department of Biology Faculty Scholarship and Creative Works

Animals face the risk of encountering pathogenic microbes while foraging for resources. Assessing the risk of nutrition vs. infection can result in the behavioral regulation of immune processes. Behavioral immunity in the nematode roundworm Caenorhabditis elegans (C. elegans) is regulated, in part, by the innate immune molecule TOL-1: a homolog of vertebrate Toll-like Receptor (TLR) proteins that influences C. elegans pathogen avoidance behaviors by promoting the development of CO2-detecting chemosensory neurons. While TOL-1′s role in pathogen avoidance is well established, its role in an opposing behavior – foraging – has not been examined. In addition to pathogenic bacteria, preferred food …

Interspecific Interactions And Resource Availability As Drivers Of Species Occurrences, Edita Folfas

Biology Dissertations - Archive

Understanding what forces determine species occurrence is central to studies of community ecology. Species interact with each other and their environment, and these interactions scale up to shape global patterns of diversity. In my first chapter, I examined how predation might shape patterns of Anolis lizard species richness and abundance across landscapes on islands in the Greater Antilles. I quantified predatory bird occurrence by using thousands of observations from an online citizen science database (eBird). I then obtained estimates of anole abundance and diversity by conducting local field surveys and using mark-resight methods. While predators could negatively impact anole abundance …

Native Bee Utilization Of Sorghum And Community Richness In Western Kansas Agricultural System, Katelyn M. Strack

Master's Theses or Doctor of Nursing Practice

In recent years, biologists have documented numerous threats facing native bee populations globally. Current agricultural practices have significant and often negative effects on native bee populations. It is imperative that we understand how these practices affect native bees. Sorghum (Sorghum bicolor (L.) Moench) is cultivated heavily in western Kansas as a grain crop. There is some evidence that native bees can utilize sorghum pollen in other systems. This study investigates whether native bees utilize pollen from sorghum and whether the presence of sorghum in the landscape influences the structure of native bee communities. We conducted observations of sorghum …

A Geometric Morphometrics Analysis Of The Limb Morphologies Of Mosasaurs And Its Palaeoecological Implications, Zachary J. Herbert

Master's Theses or Doctor of Nursing Practice

Mosasaurs were a major component of Late Cretaceous marine ecosystems, being the last Mesozoic radiation of secondarily aquatic tetrapods into diverse niches.

To shed light on the diversity and evolution of limb morphology in this clade, geometric morphometrics analyses were performed on seven skeletal elements from the forelimb and hindlimb. This study tested the hypothesis tested that mosasaurs living in similar environments would exhibit similar morphologies.

After analyzing datasets containing 29 taxa, the observed patterns did not support the hypothesis that habitat was the primary variable influencing morphology. The recurrence of a pattern, the plotting of plioplatecarpine mosasaurs closer to …

The Influence Of Anthropogenic Infrastructure On The Reproductive Success Of Northern House Wrens (Troglodytes Aedon) In Proximity To Highways, Nana-Esi Irie Hanson

Master's Theses or Doctor of Nursing Practice

Anthropogenic disturbances, particularly road infrastructure and noise pollution, significantly affect avian populations, influencing their ecology, behaviour, and reproductive success. This study examined the impact of highway proximity on the reproductive success of the Northern House Wrens (Troglodytes aedon) in a rural landscape. Noise levels and reproductive outcomes were compared between two sites in Hays, Kansas: a high-traffic site near Interstate 70 (Sternberg Museum Nature Trail) and a lower-traffic site at Big Creek on the Fort Hays State University campus. I hypothesized that increased traffic volume and noise pollution would negatively affect Northern House Wren reproductive success. Ambient noise …

Early Season Tropical Cyclones Affect Birds Breeding On A Barrier Island, Theodore J. Zenzal Jr., Amanda N. Anderson, Brock Geary, Jessica Schulz, Robert C. Dobbs, Wylie C. Barrow Jr., James H. Waddle

Gulf and Caribbean Research

Animal populations often experience acute natural disturbances, most of which are connected to short—term weather events. Occurrences of early—season tropical cyclones during the peak of the avian breeding season are likely to increase with climate change, which can substantially impact populations of coastal breeding birds at multiple scales. To understand the acute impacts of severe tropical cyclones, we investigated how abundances of breeding birds changed before and after 4 early season named tropical cyclones on a barrier island in the Gulf of Mexico. We detected a change in pre— versus post—storm numbers of breeding birds after 2 out of 4 …