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Full-Text Articles in Biology

Dog Sniffing Biomechanic Responses In An Odor Detection Test Of Odorants With Differing Physical Properties, Lydia Burnett, Nicholas Hebdon, Pete A. Stevens, Monica Moljo, Lindsay D. Waldrop, Lauryn Degreeff Nov 2024

Dog Sniffing Biomechanic Responses In An Odor Detection Test Of Odorants With Differing Physical Properties, Lydia Burnett, Nicholas Hebdon, Pete A. Stevens, Monica Moljo, Lindsay D. Waldrop, Lauryn Degreeff

Biology, Chemistry, and Environmental Sciences Faculty Articles and Research

Dogs are utilized in forensic science for their extensive scent detection capabilities. They are often considered the “gold standard” in field detection for targets such as illicit drugs and explosives. Despite their prevalence in the field, relatively little is known about how dogs interact with and transport volatile organic compounds through their olfactory system. In this study, two groups of dogs were utilized – Sport detection dogs (n=19) that participate in the National Association of Canine Scent Work and have achieved advanced standing through training and successful search competitions and law enforcement explosive detection dogs (n=8) which were included for …


Exploring Pcat3 Expression In Arthritis: Proinflammatory Marker Patterns And P53 Involvement, Aida H. Alobaidi, Entkhab M. A. Alanisi, Khalid A. Alyodawi Nov 2024

Exploring Pcat3 Expression In Arthritis: Proinflammatory Marker Patterns And P53 Involvement, Aida H. Alobaidi, Entkhab M. A. Alanisi, Khalid A. Alyodawi

AUIQ Complementary Biological System

This study investigated the role of long non-coding RNA (lncRNA) PCAT3 in arthritis, focusing on its impact on proinflammatory markers. Researchers analyzed both mRNA and protein levels of various proinflammatory markers (TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-4, IL-6, IL-8, IL-10, and IL-13) in arthritis patients and compared them to healthy controls. Additionally, PCAT3 expression was assessed in both patient groups and further investigated using siRNA knockdown in the human synovial cell line SW982. Results revealed distinct expression patterns of proinflammatory markers in arthritis patients, with TNF-α and IL-6 showing the highest levels. PCAT3 expression was significantly elevated in arthritis patients compared to controls. …


Snakehead Neurocranium, Alexis K. Crass, Megan E. Martiello, Matthew D. Gassmann, David Kerstetter Nov 2024

Snakehead Neurocranium, Alexis K. Crass, Megan E. Martiello, Matthew D. Gassmann, David Kerstetter

All Scans: Kerstetter Fisheries and Avian Ecology 3D Scan Series

No abstract provided.


Structural Stability Comparisons Between Natural And Engineered Group Ii Chaperonins: Are Crenarchaeal “Heat Shock” Proteins Also “Ph Shock” Resistant?, Mercede Furr, Shadi A. Badiee, Sreenivasulu Basha, Shilpi Agarwal, Zeina Ismael Ibrahem Alraawi, Sobroney Heng, Carson L. Stacy, Yeasin Ahmed, Mahmoud Moradi, Thallapuranam Krishnaswamy Suresh Kumar, Ruben Michael Ceballos Nov 2024

Structural Stability Comparisons Between Natural And Engineered Group Ii Chaperonins: Are Crenarchaeal “Heat Shock” Proteins Also “Ph Shock” Resistant?, Mercede Furr, Shadi A. Badiee, Sreenivasulu Basha, Shilpi Agarwal, Zeina Ismael Ibrahem Alraawi, Sobroney Heng, Carson L. Stacy, Yeasin Ahmed, Mahmoud Moradi, Thallapuranam Krishnaswamy Suresh Kumar, Ruben Michael Ceballos

Biological Sciences Faculty Publications and Presentations

Archaeal group II chaperonins, also known as heat shock proteins (HSPs), are abundantly expressed in Sulfolobales. HSPα and HSPβ gene expression is upregulated during thermal shock. HSPs form large 18-mer complexes that assist in folding nascent proteins and protecting resident proteins during thermal stress. Engineered HSPs have been designed for industrial applications. Since temperature flux in the geothermal habitats of Sulfolobales impacts intracellular temperature, it follows that HSPs have developed thermotolerance. However, despite the low pH (i.e., pH < 4) typical for these habitats, intracellular pH in Sulfolobales is maintained at ~6.5. Therefore, it is not presumed that HSPs have evolved acid-tolerance. To test tolerance to low pH, HSPs were studied at various pH and temperature values. Both circular dichroism and intrinsic fluorescence indicate that HSPα and HSPβ retain structural integrity at neutral pH over a wide range of temperatures. Structural integrity is compromised for all HSPs at ultra-low pH (e.g., pH 2). Secondary structures in HSPs are resilient under mildly acidic conditions (pH 4) but Anilino naphthalene 8-sulfonate binding shows shifts in tertiary structure at lower pH. Trypsin digestion shows that the HSPβ-coh backbone is the most flexible and HSPβ is the most resilient. Overall, results suggest that HSPα and HSPβ exhibit greater thermostability than HSPβ-coh and that there are limits to HSP acid-tolerance. Molecular dynamics (MD) simulations complement the wet lab data. Specifically, MD suggests that the HSPβ secondary structure is the most stable. Also, despite similarities in pH- and temperature-dependent behavior, there are clear differences in how each HSP subtype is perturbed.


Place, Space, And Shifting Views Of Nature, Rachel Tracey Nov 2024

Place, Space, And Shifting Views Of Nature, Rachel Tracey

Runkle Woods Symposia

In her reflective presentation, Rachel Tracy explores her evolving relationship with nature and wilderness. Initially disinterested and uncomfortable in natural settings, she describes how her perspective shifted through class discussions, personal reflection, and immersive experiences in the outdoors. Concepts such as “space versus place” helped her understand the emotional and historical significance of natural environments. Through this journey, she discovered joy in simply being present in nature, ultimately gaining a deeper appreciation for the natural world and its ability to exist and thrive without human involvement.


Culture, Nature, And Reflection: The Settler’S Impact On Life Today, Erin Thomas Nov 2024

Culture, Nature, And Reflection: The Settler’S Impact On Life Today, Erin Thomas

Runkle Woods Symposia

Erin Thomas, a senior English major at Wright State University, reflects on the intersection of wilderness, identity, and cultural erasure. Drawing from her Indigenous heritage and experiences in the course Woods and Wilderness, she critiques the romanticized, Eurocentric view of nature as untouched and separate from humanity. Instead, Thomas highlights how wilderness has been shaped by settler colonialism and exclusionary narratives that often ignore Indigenous presence and histories. Her presentation calls for a more inclusive and honest understanding of wilderness—one that honors marginalized voices and acknowledges the land’s complex cultural past.


Wilderness Myth And Reality: Human Views And Uses Of Nature, Evan Hardern Nov 2024

Wilderness Myth And Reality: Human Views And Uses Of Nature, Evan Hardern

Runkle Woods Symposia

In his essay and presentation, Wright State English major Evan Harder critically examines modern conceptions of wilderness and challenges the Romantic ideal that moral purity and personal virtue are inherently tied to time spent in nature. Drawing on writers such as Wordsworth, Emerson, and Thoreau, Harder interrogates the cultural myth of wilderness as a pristine, untouched realm separate from civilization. He argues that our understanding of nature is a constructed concept—born from the development of cities and agriculture—and often overlooks the long histories of human habitation in places now designated as “natural” or “wild.” Through examples like Cuyahoga Valley National …


The Concept Of Wilderness In Western Culture And Its Sacredness, Shannon Doyal Nov 2024

The Concept Of Wilderness In Western Culture And Its Sacredness, Shannon Doyal

Runkle Woods Symposia

Shannon Doyal, a Professional Writing student at Wright State, explores how wilderness has been perceived throughout American history—as both a physical space and a powerful spiritual symbol. Drawing from Indigenous perspectives, early settler narratives, Transcendentalist writings, and American literature, she traces the evolving cultural and emotional significance of wilderness. From a place of fear and survival to one of introspection and sacred connection, wilderness reflects our changing relationship with nature and ourselves. As someone whose spirituality honors the cycles of nature, Doyal argues that reclaiming wilderness as a sacred and emotional space is vital—not only for environmental preservation but also …


Endangered Bats In The Runkle Woods, Volker Bahn Nov 2024

Endangered Bats In The Runkle Woods, Volker Bahn

Runkle Woods Symposia

Since 2019, Dr. Volker Bahn’s lab has been monitoring bat populations in the Runkle Woods and nearby sites, using acoustic detectors to track species presence and activity over time. With bats representing about 20% of all mammal species globally, their ecological role—particularly in insect control—is vital. The presentation highlights the diversity of local bat species, with 10 of Ohio's 11 expected species documented, ranging from the abundant big brown and red bats to the federally endangered Indiana and northern long-eared bats. Dr. Bahn discusses patterns in bat activity across years, potential drivers such as precipitation, and the concerning declines in …


Water Quality Management In The Runkle Woods, Krystal Demarco, Donavon Mishler-Laporte, Cassie Dunn, Parneet Dhillon, Reagan Hardyman Nov 2024

Water Quality Management In The Runkle Woods, Krystal Demarco, Donavon Mishler-Laporte, Cassie Dunn, Parneet Dhillon, Reagan Hardyman

Runkle Woods Symposia

This project addresses the growing issue of salt pollution in Wright State Woods, with a specific focus on sodium chloride runoff from deicing agents. Elevated salt levels, stemming from university parking lots and surrounding infrastructure, have been linked to soil degradation, vegetation stress, and aquatic habitat damage. By analyzing salt flow patterns and assessing ecological impacts, including EPA-reported chloride violations, the team identified critical areas of concern such as Outfall #2. Proposed mitigation strategies include the use of salt-tolerant tree species, alternative deicers (e.g., acetate- or carbohydrate-based), physical barriers, and expanded retention ponds and filter dams.


Invertebrates As Indicators Of Water Quality In The Runkle Woods, Dillynn Blevins, Bhavishya Ratnavelu, Lauren Stetz, Corey Walls Nov 2024

Invertebrates As Indicators Of Water Quality In The Runkle Woods, Dillynn Blevins, Bhavishya Ratnavelu, Lauren Stetz, Corey Walls

Runkle Woods Symposia

This project investigates water quality and aquatic invertebrate habitat health in the Wright State Woods, aiming to assess current conditions and implement targeted conservation strategies. Using indicators such as dissolved oxygen, nutrient concentrations, and the presence of sensitive macroinvertebrates (e.g., mayflies, stoneflies, caddisflies), the team evaluates stream health. Data collection follows established protocols, including EPT indexing and seasonal surveys. Conservation recommendations include stream aeration maintenance, removal of non-native vegetation, soil inoculation, and the construction of rain gardens and green roofs to reduce runoff.


An Accessible Trail For The Runkle Woods, Sarah Bingham, Terri Dozier, Logan Huber, Nicole Owino, Nathan Shafer Nov 2024

An Accessible Trail For The Runkle Woods, Sarah Bingham, Terri Dozier, Logan Huber, Nicole Owino, Nathan Shafer

Runkle Woods Symposia

This presentation outlines a student-led initiative to enhance a pre-existing trail in the Runkle Woods with educational conservation projects and signage. The project aims to increase accessibility and student engagement with Wright State’s natural areas. Three key conservation efforts are highlighted along the trail: prairie restoration to support native biodiversity and pollinators, erosion and runoff mitigation using native vegetation and riff-raff, and bat conservation through habitat preservation and installation of artificial roosts. The project emphasizes experiential learning, sustainability, and community involvement in environmental stewardship.


Management Of The Invasive Honeysuckle (Lonicera Maackii), Mesa Grine, Daniel Hazelett, Cassie Healy, Padma Deepika Kandregula Nov 2024

Management Of The Invasive Honeysuckle (Lonicera Maackii), Mesa Grine, Daniel Hazelett, Cassie Healy, Padma Deepika Kandregula

Runkle Woods Symposia

This presentation addresses the ecological threat posed by invasive honeysuckle in the Runkle Woods on Wright State's campus. Originally from Europe and Asia, honeysuckle aggressively outcompetes native flora due to its rapid growth, shade tolerance, and allelopathic properties. The students observed widespread honeysuckle in both new and old growth forest areas, with greater density in younger regions. Ineffective control methods—such as cutting without herbicide—often worsen infestations. Drawing on a regional study, the students propose a targeted management plan involving cutting and herbicide application, stem injection for larger plants, and reintroducing native species like spicebush. Their strategy aims to reduce honeysuckle …


Old Growth In The Runkle Woods, Madeline Greene, Lindsay Smith, Matt Tyren, Leif Walters Nov 2024

Old Growth In The Runkle Woods, Madeline Greene, Lindsay Smith, Matt Tyren, Leif Walters

Runkle Woods Symposia

In this conservation proposal, Wright State students focus on protecting the old growth areas of Runkle Woods—a rare and ecologically significant habitat in the Eastern United States, where only about 1% of such forests remain. Home to trees over 200 years old and critical species like endangered bats and white oaks, this 100-acre area faces threats from invasive species, deer overpopulation, littering, and urban runoff. Currently, only 15 acres are legally protected. The students propose expanding the easement, involving experts and graduate students in ongoing research and stewardship, and increasing public engagement through educational walks and increased and updated signage. …


Up In Smoke: Indigenous Techniques To Combat Climate Change And Increase Biodiversity, Brad Kerry Nov 2024

Up In Smoke: Indigenous Techniques To Combat Climate Change And Increase Biodiversity, Brad Kerry

Runkle Woods Symposia

Brad Kerry explores how Indigenous land management practices—particularly the use of prescribed fire—can be reintroduced to restore the Runkle Woods to its pre-colonial ecological state. Drawing on archaeological evidence, historical tree surveys, and ecological data, the presentation highlights how periodic, low-intensity fires historically maintained the forest’s biodiversity, promoted fire-adapted species like oak and hickory, and suppressed invasive plants. Kerry advocates for carefully planned, small-scale burns to combat "mesophication"—a shift toward shade-tolerant, fire-averse species—while increasing forest resilience to drought, invasive species, and climate change. The presentation underscores the ecological benefits of fire and outlines practical considerations for reintroducing controlled burns as …


Protecting Glen Helen With A Conservation Easement, Nick Boutis Nov 2024

Protecting Glen Helen With A Conservation Easement, Nick Boutis

Runkle Woods Symposia

Part 2 of the "Protecting Glen Helen with a Conservation Easement" presentation. This presentation offers an overview of Glen Helen, a 1,125-acre private nature preserve in Yellow Springs, Ohio, detailing its ecological significance, educational mission, and recent conservation efforts. Nick Boutis describes the preserve’s history, from ancient Indigenous use to its development as a resort and eventual donation to Antioch College. The focus centers on the complex, multi-year collaboration that led to establishing a permanent conservation easement, which now protects the land from development and subdivision. The presentation also highlights Glen Helen’s ongoing stewardship work, including habitat restoration, environmental education, …


Tecumseh Land Trust: Land Trusts And Land Preservation, Michele Burns Nov 2024

Tecumseh Land Trust: Land Trusts And Land Preservation, Michele Burns

Runkle Woods Symposia

Part 1 of the "Protecting Glen Helen with a Conservation Easement" presentation. Michele Burns introduces the concept of land trusts—nonprofit organizations that protect various types of land, particularly through conservation easements, which are legally binding agreements that restrict development and preserve land forever. She explaines how Tecumseh Land Trust, founded in 1990, operates in southwest Ohio to protect farmland and natural areas without owning land directly and their work in protecting the Glen Helen preservation.


Opening Remarks, Volker Bahn Nov 2024

Opening Remarks, Volker Bahn

Runkle Woods Symposia

Dr. Volker Bahn welcomes everyone to the 2024 Runkle Woods Symposium. This year's symposium is held in collaboration with the REACH Native American Heritage Festival. The event began with a land acknowledgement written by Shane Creepingbear in collaboration with Chief Ben Barns and other, recognizing the Indigenouse peoples whose lands we occupy and emphasizing our reponsbility to protect and restore the natrual word.


In Vitro Investigation Of The Potential Therapeutic Implications Of Safranal On Gastric Cancer, Aisha Juma Al Otaibi Nov 2024

In Vitro Investigation Of The Potential Therapeutic Implications Of Safranal On Gastric Cancer, Aisha Juma Al Otaibi

Thesis/ Dissertation Defenses

Despite the fact that gastric cancer patients are indispensable to conventional radiation and chemotherapy, the detrimental side effects of those approaches prompt cancer research to seek new integrative treatments. In this respect, safranal (SAF) stands out as a complementary phytotherapeutic drug with exceptional anticancer properties. Concurring studies have shown that SAF is negatively associated with several cancer types, yet its potential therapeutic impact on gastric cancer remains vastly obscure. Thus, this dissertation sought to investigate SAF's prospective tumoricidal ability and its underlying mechanisms of action on gastric cancer in vitro. Herein, the study evaluated the cytotoxicity of SAF on human …


Human Impacts On Mammal Diversity From The Pleistocene To The Present, Carson P. Hedberg Nov 2024

Human Impacts On Mammal Diversity From The Pleistocene To The Present, Carson P. Hedberg

Biology ETDs

Humans have fundamentally altered the planet’s biodiversity. It is critical to characterize these changes, but also to understand how they impact the structure and function of modern ecosystems. This dissertation investigates how anthropogenically mediated species losses and/or introductions influence ecological function and community structure in mammals across multiple temporal and spatial scales. We found that selective loss of large-bodied mammals over the Late Quaternary has led to severe losses in functional diversity in modern ecosystems, suggesting megafaunal mammals contribute distinct ecological functions. These changes to mammal diversity and distribution over millennia have altered both global patterns in functional diversity and …


Clinical Outcomes Of Isoniazid Preventive Therapy Amongst Persons Living With Hiv Attending A Referral Hospital: A Cross-Sectional Study, Mwaka Dick Odong, Wafula Bossa, Muhwezi Loyce, Nangobi Christine Faith, Mbusa Chrispus, Bontu Aschale Abebe, Daniel Chans Mwandah, Silas Ojuka, Tadele Mekuriya Yadesa Nov 2024

Clinical Outcomes Of Isoniazid Preventive Therapy Amongst Persons Living With Hiv Attending A Referral Hospital: A Cross-Sectional Study, Mwaka Dick Odong, Wafula Bossa, Muhwezi Loyce, Nangobi Christine Faith, Mbusa Chrispus, Bontu Aschale Abebe, Daniel Chans Mwandah, Silas Ojuka, Tadele Mekuriya Yadesa

AUIQ Complementary Biological System

Tuberculosis (TB) is the most common opportunistic infection amongst persons living with HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) (PLWHIV). World Health Organisation recommends tuberculosis preventive therapy (TPT) to avert the effects of TB/HIV co-infection. This study aimed at determining the incidence of active tuberculosis infection, assessing the burden of adverse drug events (ADEs) and identifying the associated factors. In this study, records of 379 patients who started isoniazid preventive therapy at Mbarara Regional Referral Hospital (MRRH) between 1st July, 2017 and 30th June, 2022 were retrospectively reviewed. Data was analyzed using a statistical software (SPSS version 20.0) and presented using …


Chasing A Little-Known Fairy Bee (Perdita Meconis) In A Dynamic Desert Landscape, Sarit Chanprame, Colleen Meidt, Terry Griswold, Joseph S. Wilson, Kelsey K. Graham Nov 2024

Chasing A Little-Known Fairy Bee (Perdita Meconis) In A Dynamic Desert Landscape, Sarit Chanprame, Colleen Meidt, Terry Griswold, Joseph S. Wilson, Kelsey K. Graham

Biology Student Research

The Mojave poppy bee, Perdita meconis Griswold, is a small fairy bee endemic to the eastern Mojave Desert, known to be associated with the Las Vegas Bearpoppy, Arctomecon californica. Because of the reported decline in populations of P. meconis, it has been targeted for protection under the Endangered Species Act. Here, we present the results of a 3-year study investigating the current distribution and floral preferences of P. meconis in Clark County, Nevada. We found that populations of P. meconis fluctuated dramatically from 2020 to 2022. This area experienced extreme drought conditions during these years, which consequentially affected …


Exploring The Role Of Tissue-Resident T Cells In Neurotropic Viral Infections And Opioid-Induced Immune Disorders During Exposure And Withdrawal, Shenjian Ai Nov 2024

Exploring The Role Of Tissue-Resident T Cells In Neurotropic Viral Infections And Opioid-Induced Immune Disorders During Exposure And Withdrawal, Shenjian Ai

Arts & Sciences Graduate Student Theses and Dissertations

Tissue-resident T cells play a crucial role in the immune response to neurotropic viral infections and opioid-induced immune disorders. Understanding the roles of tissue-resident T cells in these contexts is essential for developing therapeutic strategies to mitigate their detrimental effects while enhancing their protective functions. The chemokine receptor CXCR6 and its ligand CXCL16 are critical in maintaining the population of tissue-resident T cells in the CNS. CXCR6 is expressed on CD8 T cells that persist in the CNS after recovery from West Nile virus infection. Research has shown that CXCL16, produced by microglia and other myeloid cells, binds to CXCR6 …


Best Practices For The Naming Of Species, Luis A. Ruedas, Ryan W. Norris, Robert M. Timm Nov 2024

Best Practices For The Naming Of Species, Luis A. Ruedas, Ryan W. Norris, Robert M. Timm

Biology Faculty Publications and Presentations

The process of describing a species has evolved considerably since the modern age of taxonomy was initiated with the publication of the 10th edition of Linnaeus’ Systema Naturæ in 1758. Nevertheless, the basic unit of the taxonomic framework remains the species group (species and subspecies). As a result, it is incumbent upon individuals undertaking species-group descriptions to strive for the highest standards, just as it is for reviewers and editors to hold authors to those same standards. The clear and mounting biodiversity crisis, the increasing proliferation of journals, the multiplication of journals publishing only in electronic format, the decline in …


Black Grouper Neurocranium, Grace K. Triplett, Katelyn A. Mckimmy, Lacey Adamik, David Kerstetter Nov 2024

Black Grouper Neurocranium, Grace K. Triplett, Katelyn A. Mckimmy, Lacey Adamik, David Kerstetter

All Scans: Kerstetter Fisheries and Avian Ecology 3D Scan Series

No abstract provided.


Assessment Of Heavy Metal Concentration In Orange-Spotted Trevally (Flavocaranx Bajad) From Two Coastal Locations In Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates, Kholood Khaled Aljaberi Nov 2024

Assessment Of Heavy Metal Concentration In Orange-Spotted Trevally (Flavocaranx Bajad) From Two Coastal Locations In Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates, Kholood Khaled Aljaberi

Thesis/ Dissertation Defenses

This study investigates concentration of heavy metals in the Orange-spotted Trevally (Flavocaranx bajad) from two distinct coastal location in Abu Dhabi Emirate, Sila and Abu Dhabi. Heavy metal pollution poses a significant risk to both marine ecosystems and human health, thus it is vital to conduct comprehensive assessments to heavy metal contaminations in aquatic life. The main aim of this study is to quantify the levels of heavy metals and assess the extent of metal pollution in samples from both sites. The samples were prepared and analyzed using microwave digestion system and ICP Optical Emission Spectrometer to determine metal concentrations. …


The Great Lakes Winter Grab: Limnological Data From A Multi-Institutional Winter Sampling Campaign On The Laurentian Great Lakes, Ge Pu, Krill Shchapov, Nolan J.T. Pearce, Kelly Bowen, Andrew Bramburger, Andrew Camilleri, Maci Quintanilla, Trista Vick-Majors, Et Al. Nov 2024

The Great Lakes Winter Grab: Limnological Data From A Multi-Institutional Winter Sampling Campaign On The Laurentian Great Lakes, Ge Pu, Krill Shchapov, Nolan J.T. Pearce, Kelly Bowen, Andrew Bramburger, Andrew Camilleri, Maci Quintanilla, Trista Vick-Majors, Et Al.

Michigan Tech Publications

Interest in winter limnology is growing rapidly, but progress is hindered by a shortage of standardized multivariate datasets on winter conditions. Addressing the winter data gap will enhance our understanding of winter ecosystem function and of lake response to environmental change. Here, we describe a dataset generated by a multi-institutional winter sampling campaign across all five Laurentian Great Lakes and some of their connecting waters (the Great Lakes Winter Grab). The objective of Winter Grab was to characterize mid-winter limnological conditions in the Great Lakes using standard sample collection and analysis methods. Nineteen research groups sampled 49 locations varying widely …


Scholar Perspectives On The Impact Of A Scientific Community Program For Neurodivergent Undergraduate Stem Scholars, Dylan Sullivan, Fernando Zavala, Derek Hidalgo, Jacob Stolle, Rebecca Matte, Christin B. Monroe Nov 2024

Scholar Perspectives On The Impact Of A Scientific Community Program For Neurodivergent Undergraduate Stem Scholars, Dylan Sullivan, Fernando Zavala, Derek Hidalgo, Jacob Stolle, Rebecca Matte, Christin B. Monroe

Journal of Science Education for Students with Disabilities

Despite the adaptive strengths and unique problem-solving skills demonstrated by neurodivergent (ND) individuals, they remain underrepresented in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) fields. High unemployment rates among individuals with disabilities emphasize the need for addressing barriers to entry and persistence in the workforce. This study introduces a program designed to enhance opportunities for neurodivergent STEM scholars with financial needs, supported by the National Science Foundation (NSF). The program involves: 1) a weekly cohort course to engage in professional development, 2) use of the Birkman Method® survey to help scholars identify and communicate strengths, fostering self-awareness and growth, and 3) …


Todaro Channeled Apple Snail (Pomacea Canaliculata), Jasmyn Todaro, Amy C. Hirons Nov 2024

Todaro Channeled Apple Snail (Pomacea Canaliculata), Jasmyn Todaro, Amy C. Hirons

Hirons Field Techniques

Channeled Apple Snail (Pomacea canaliculata) shell.


The Effects Of Sunlight On The Decomposition Rate Of Opuntia Humifusa, Paul George, Elena Amonette, Celine W. Seder, Katherine Massaro Nov 2024

The Effects Of Sunlight On The Decomposition Rate Of Opuntia Humifusa, Paul George, Elena Amonette, Celine W. Seder, Katherine Massaro

Science University Research Symposium (SURS)

Plant decomposition plays a critical role in community and ecosystem ecology by recycling minerals and returning nutrients to the soil. The rate of plant decomposition can be impacted by a multitude of factors including chemical composition of the plant, presence of decomposing microorganisms, temperature, and more. This study sought to quantify the effects of sunlight on plant decomposition. In this project, Opuntia humifusa (prickly pear) were placed outside on the Belmont greenroof to decompose in sunny and shaded environments. The plants were collected over a period of 12 weeks, and data on the masses of the decomposing plants was used …