Pharmacology, Toxicology and Environmental Health Commons^™

Impact Of Tetrahydrocannabinol (Thc) On Daphnia Magna Heart Rate, Ashley Cosgrave

Williams Honors College, Honors Research Projects

Marijuana (Cannabis) is currently federally illegal within the United States and classified as a Schedule I drug. This leaves a large research gap on the impacts of Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) use. Daphnia magna are frequently used as a model organism for the human heart and toxicology screenings due to their myogenic heart, similarities in physiological pathways, and sensitivity to toxins. As such, in order to bridge the research gap and uncover potential use of Daphnia magna as a model organism for humans in regard to impact on heart rate, we hypothesized that if Daphnia magna possess CB1 receptors or an equivalent …

Effect Of Paxlovid On Neurodevelopmental Disorder Diagnosis Outcomes In Offspring Of Mothers Infected With Sars-Cov-2 During Pregnancy, Simone Rogers

CMC Senior Theses

The onset of the 2020 COVID-19 pandemic brought concern over the effects that this virus would have on pregnancy and fetal outcomes, specifically neurodevelopmental outcomes. Maternal immune activation (MIA), caused by infection during pregnancy, is known to result in neurodevelopmental disorder (NDD) diagnosis in offspring, typically autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). This effect has already been observed in mothers who were infected with COVID-19 during pregnancy. However, in 2023, Paxlovid, the COVID-19 antiviral drug, became available to patients experiencing symptoms of the virus, including pregnant women. Consequently, this study seeks to determine whether the risk of …

Reversible Degradation Of Peptidoglycan By Lytic Transglycosylases, Aaron Devereaux

Theses and Dissertations (Comprehensive)

Antimicrobial resistance continues to be a burden on the global healthcare system with an estimated cost of billions of dollars and millions of deaths each year. Recently, there has been little to no development on new antibiotics to treat bacterial infection, and any that are developed become resisted to within a few years. Both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria contain a mesh-like layer called peptidoglycan (PG) that surrounds their cells providing strength, cell shape, and protection from their environments. This layer is a polymer of N-acetylmuramic acid (MurNAc) and N-acetylglucosamine (GlcNAc) connected via a b-1,4-glycosidic bond, with each strand being cross-linked …

Comparing Multivalent Cross-Linked Sodium Alginate/ Montmorillonite Beads Containing Curcumin Or Cayenne Pepper As Drug Carriers And Their Antimicrobial Resistance, Shionainn Traynor, Shubham Sharma

SURE Journal: Science Undergraduate Research Experience Journal

The aim of the following work was to investigate and compare curcumin and cayenne pepper in microbeads composed of sodium alginate (SA) crosslinked with montmorillonite (MMT) to act as drug carriers and their antimicrobial resistance. The microbeads were prepared through ion-exchange in multivalent solutions of CaCl₂, MgCl₂ and AlCl₃. The microbeads were characterized by Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), Energy Dispersive X-ray analysis (EDX) and the time required for intercalation of curcumin and cayenne pepper with MMT. Simulated intestinal fluid (pH 7.3) and gastric fluid (pH 1.2) at 37°C were used for comparison in swelling studies. …

Editorial - Sure Journal Vol 6, Anne M. Friel, Eva Campion, Sinead Loughran

SURE Journal: Science Undergraduate Research Experience Journal

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Growth And Mobility Of Physella Acuta Under Individual And Combined Acetaminophen And Salinity Exposure, Rhea Wilder, Jason Doll, Daniel Elias

Journal of the South Carolina Academy of Science

Global climate change, driven by rapid population growth and anthropogenic activities, presents an urgent challenge to aquatic ecosystems. Salinity intrusion threatens water quality and availability for human and wildlife populations. At the same time, due to the demand for pharmaceuticals, these pollutants are increasingly detected in freshwater environments, with acetaminophen being one of the most prevalent. This research analyzed the individual and combined effects of salinity (2.5 g/L) and acetaminophen (488 μg/L) on Physella acuta. Overall, we observed reduced snail movement under elevated salinity and no effects on growth or movement with acetaminophen alone or in combination with salinity. …

From Turf To Turf: Fungal Invasion Of Ascocoryne Turficola In A Northern Michigan Bog, Evan L. Coscarelli-Trott

All NMU Master's Theses

This is the first paper to report Ascocoryne turficola Boud. 1905 (Helotiales: Ascomycota) within the United States. It is an obligate bog fungus native to Europe and Siberia, where it is extremely rare across most of its range. A. turficola appeared at Lily Pond Bog in Marquette, Michigan (87.47º W, 46.59º N) in 2019, almost contemporaneous with anecdotal reports in Minnesota and Ontario. Since 2019, the Lily Pond population has exploded and become the dominant fungus in this bog but has yet to spread to similar bogs nearby. This species is adapted to long distance dispersal and carries the potential …

Microplastic Accumulation In The Marsh Periwinkle (Littoraria Irrorata), Sarah Keaton, Hannah Lukhard, Eli Windy, Manar Hasan

DePaul Discoveries

Contamination of oceans by microplastics (mm) currently poses a major threat to aquatic and terrestrial ecosystems worldwide. Recent attention towards this issue has raised questions about the extent to which microplastics have accumulated in the environment, and has led to an increase in studies on the effects of microplastics in various organisms. However, levels of contamination in protected natural areas are still largely unexplored, yet can offer an important empirical perspective on the issue. In addition, little is known about the potential effects of microplastics on behavior in the field. This research was conducted within the protected ACE Basin National …

Amelioration By Morus Nigra Fruit Extract On Testes, Seminiferous Tubules And Spermatic Cells By Chromium Induced Histopathologies In Mice, Syeda Nadia Ahmad, Khawaja Raees Ahmad, Khalida Jabeen, Muhammad Ali Kanwal, Iram Inayat, Sadia Suleman, Asma Younas, Arifa Haider

Journal of Bioresource Management

Male toxicology in terms of histopathology of testes, histometery of seminiferous tubules and various spermatic cells against short-term hexavalent chromium Cr(VI) exposure & their ameliorations upon post treatment of Morus nigra fruit pulp extract (MnFPE) were studied. There were 3 groups of animals named as 1. Control (C) group: received free normal drinking water for 15 days; 2. Chromium (Cr VI) group: received hexavalent chromium Cr(VI) in drinking water for 10 days; 3. Chromium+Morus nigra (Cr VI+Mn) group: received Cr(VI) in drinking water for 10 days; additionally received 0.2mL MnFPE twice a day for next 5 days. The …

The Combined Effects Of Nacl And Beet Juice On Germination And Early Seedling Growth Among Raphanus Sativus L., Justin Howell

Theses, Dissertations and Culminating Projects

Salt pollution and soil salinization via secondary pathways is a global problem. One practice which contributes to increased salinity in soils and other natural systems is the application of road deicers in colder regions. Increased salinity in soils negatively affects plant growth and microbial activity. In an effort to decrease the amount of salt applied to roads, salts are applied as brine. Liquid organic additives are incorporated into these brines to foster better adherence of the salt to impermeable surfaces. One common additive is beet juice, a byproduct of sugar extraction. Beet juice contains high levels of phosphorus and organic …

Pipecolic Acid And Novel Insights Into Cerebral Malaria, Akua E. Mensah

Theses and Dissertations

Cerebral malaria (CM), a severe manifestation of Plasmodium infection, prompts our investigation into the nuanced role of pipecolic acid in its pathophysiology. To unravel the molecular intricacies, we conducted in vitro lysine labeling techniques of mice infected with P. berghei ANKA parasites, and human P. falciparum grown in vitro, aiming to discern the impact of Plasmodium on pipecolic acid production. Previous observations indicated an elevation in pipecolic acid levels correlating with neurological decline in children with CM. In our study, confirming elevated pipecolic acid presence in the plasma and brain tissues of CM patients and the animal model of CM, …

Haloperidol Paradoxical Behavior Induced Cell Proliferation Through Pkb/Akt And Abolished By Mir-Let-7c, Mounira Morgem

Dissertations (2016-Present)

Haloperidol is a typical antipsychotic drug; it is widely used for people with various psychiatric conditions such as schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, major depressive disorder, and dementia. Despite its effectiveness in controlling delusions, hallucinations, agitation, and other disruptive behavioral symptoms in these psychiatric conditions, it has adverse side effects such as extrapyramidal manifestation and endocrinologic and metabolic changes. Initial evidence shows that haloperidol has antitumor properties in several cancer types by inhibiting cell proliferation and inducing apoptosis. However, other reports indicate that haloperidol promotes cell proliferation in other cells, raising concerns about its association with an increased risk of cancer which …

The E-Liquid Flavorings Cinnamaldehyde, Vanillin, And Ethyl Vanillin Induce Cellular Stress Responses In Human Proximal Tubule (Hk-2) Epithelial Cells, Ashley J. Cox

Theses, Dissertations and Capstones

The use of electronic nicotine delivery systems (ENDS) has become popular in recent years as an alternative to traditional cigarettes. These devices heat and subsequently vaporize e-liquids for inhalation by the user, which allows for the delivery of ingredients such as flavorings, nicotine, and solvents through the vapor. Flavorings used in e-liquids are “generally recognized as safe” (GRAS) for consumption by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), however there are currently no recommendations on safety regarding the inhalation of flavoring agents. While research characterizing effects of e-liquids and their flavorings is abundant in lung and respiratory tract models, few studies …

What Is The Best Way To Combat The Symptoms Of Knee Osteoarthritis?, Anna Reich

The Science Journal of the Lander College of Arts and Sciences

Osteoarthritis is a debilitating disease that a significant percentage of adults contend with. This degenerative joint disease causes the breakdown of tissue at the joint, which leads to symptoms of pain, decreased function, and limited range of motion. There are various methods of combating these symptoms. Treatment options include basic lifestyle modifications and other nonpharmacological methods, oral and topical drugs, intraarticular injections, and surgery. There are benefits and risks, as well as a lack of effectiveness associated with these treatments. The purpose of this paper is to determine whether there is an optimal treatment for this disease. Based on the …

How Does Marijuana Affect Reproductive Health?, Miriam Blatner

The Science Journal of the Lander College of Arts and Sciences

Marijuana use has become prevalent worldwide, especially amongst men and women of reproductive age. Marijuana acts on Cannabinoid receptors, which are a part of the Endocannabinoid system. CB1 and CB2 receptors are most found in humans. Activation of Cannabinoid receptors in males cause a reduction in healthy sperm parameters and inhibits the acrosomal reaction, and therefore minimizes fertility potential. Researchers have not yet discovered any significant interactions between marijuana and the female reproductive system. There has also been limited evidence displaying the effects that marijuana has on pregnancy and breastfeeding of infants. Nevertheless, physicians have recommended against marijuana use while …

What Is Aphthous Stomatitis? What Are The Possible Causes And Treatments?, Shirah Balakhane

The Science Journal of the Lander College of Arts and Sciences

The historical understanding of Recurrent Aphthous Stomatitis (RAS), also known as canker sores, has evolved. This paper aims to collect data that determines the underlying factors that can cause RAS and highlights treatments or preventive measures one should take. RAS is a common mucosal disease of the mouth that affects healthy people and presents atypically in immunocompromised people. Geographical, age, and gender-related factors can all affect the prevalence. RAS still has no known cause; however, several systemic, local, immunologic, genetic, dietary, allergy, and microbiological factors—including immunosuppressive medications and stress—have been suggested as potential culprits. Using topical and systemic medicines, the …

Ethanol-Containing Mouthwash: Is It Safe? Exploring The Potential Risks And Benefits, Michoel Adler

The Science Journal of the Lander College of Arts and Sciences

This thesis investigates the safety of ethanol-containing mouthwash, focusing on the risks and benefits associated with the ethanol in mouthwash and its metabolic product, acetaldehyde. While ethanol is an effective antimicrobial agent, its carcinogenic and cytotoxic effects raise some concerns. This paper examines ethanol and acetaldehyde exposure, its toxicity, and its effects on oral health. Existing studies have found risks associated with ethanol exposure and have not found decreased effectiveness in ethanol-free mouthwash controlling oral bacteria. Further research is needed to determine the exact risks associated with ethanol-containing mouthwash and should focus on identifying the most effective and safest combination …

The Impact Of Maternal Thyroid Dysfunction During Pregnancy On Fetal Development, Ariella Eisig

The Science Journal of the Lander College of Arts and Sciences

Thyroid dysfunction during pregnancy significantly impacts both maternal and fetal health, posing physical and neuropsychological development risks for the neonate. This paper reviews the mechanism of thyroid function, the etiology, screening for hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism, and the effects on fetal development and pregnancy outcomes. Multiple studies have shown that maternal thyroid dysfunction can lead to various complications such as IUGR, preterm birth, neonatal Grave’s disease, and adverse neuropsychological outcomes in children. Proper screening, monitoring, and management of maternal thyroid function are essential to lessen these risks and ensure optimal fetal development. Further research is warranted to better understand the complex …

Plaster Creek Stewards Curb-Cut Rain Garden Social Impacts Study, Eleanor Vander Ark, Laura Luchies

Watershed Reports

As one method of minimizing pollutants in Plaster Creek, Plaster Creek Stewards (PCS) has installed Curb-Cut Rain Gardens (CCRGs) in the downstream neighborhoods of the Plaster Creek Watershed. CCRGs sit in the parkway between the sidewalk and the street, are planted with native plants, and have a cut in the curb to allow the influx of rainwater from the street. These gardens divert polluted rainwater from the creek by catching the water closer to where it falls and allowing it to filter into the ground.

As part of a grant from the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy …

What Are The Best Treatment Options For Infantile Cataracts?, Breindy Hecht

The Science Journal of the Lander College of Arts and Sciences

Congenital and infantile cataracts are characterized by opacity of the ocular lens, causing decreased visual acuity and inducing amblyopia. Treatment of pediatric patients is complicated because the eye is still growing during childhood, and the mind-eye connection is developing during this time. Anything that obstructs visual input from the eye to the brain raises risks of permanent visual deficit. Treatment includes immediate cataract extraction; this is sometimes followed by intraocular implantation of an artificial lens. After surgery, treatment continues in the form of occlusive patching therapy, corrective spectacles, or cycloplegic eye drops. Oftentimes, several methods are used simultaneously for maximal …

Full Issue: Volume 17, Number 2, Spring 2024

The Science Journal of the Lander College of Arts and Sciences

Complete .pdf file of Volume 17, Number 2 of The Science Journal of the Lander College of Arts and Sciences. Published Spring 2024.

The Effects Of Electronic Cigarettes On The Oral Cavity, Batsheva Saposh

The Science Journal of the Lander College of Arts and Sciences

Electronic cigarettes, which became available for purchase in the United States in 2007, were initially touted as a harmless aid for smoking cessation. However, recent research into the impact of electronic cigarettes on the human body has shown potential deleterious effects. This paper aims to examine the effects electronic cigarette usage has on the oral cavity. The methods to compile research involved reading through many peer-reviewed articles to analyze the most current information on the topic. The findings indicate several potentially adverse effects on the oral cavity including oral cancer, periodontitis, dental caries, xerostomia, facial fractures, failed dental implants, and …

Sibo And The Effectiveness Of Treatment Via Diet And Medication, Elizabeth C. Hersko

The Science Journal of the Lander College of Arts and Sciences

This study delves into small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO), exploring its origins, diagnosis, and treatment methods. The research illuminates the complexities of SIBO, a condition characterized by an abnormal surge of bacteria in the small intestine. Factors contributing to SIBO include impaired motility, anatomical abnormalities, and digestive system dysfunctions. Diagnosing SIBO proves challenging due to its nonspecific symptoms which often overlap with other conditions like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). Various diagnostic approaches, including lactulose breath testing, blood tests, stool analysis, and imaging, aim to identify SIBO and its underlying causes. Treatment involves dietary modifications—such as low FODMAP, biphasic, or fast …

Non-Surgical Treatment Options For Male-Pattern Baldness, Robert Schiffer

The Science Journal of the Lander College of Arts and Sciences

Male pattern baldness affects nearly 50% of the world’s male population. It is associated with physiological conditions such as cardiovascular disease as well as psychological issues with self-image and self-esteem. Although surgical treatments exist, they are associated with risks and complications. Various non-surgical treatment modalities for male pattern baldness are available for patients. Topical and oral formulations of minoxidil, finasteride, and dutasteride can be used, in addition to low level light therapy (LLLT) and platelet rich plasma (PRP) therapy. As many treatment options exist, it may be challenging for patients to decide which to choose. Although there have been few …

Targeting Vs. Modulating: How To Confront Variation In Cystic Fibrosis?, Yechiel Muller

The Science Journal of the Lander College of Arts and Sciences

Cystic fibrosis is a genetic disease with over 2,000 reported mutation varieties. It affects a chloride channel called CFTR, which by the transmembrane transport of chlorine, maintains an apical membrane electrolyte equilibrium in luminal epithelial cells. Its malfunction results in cystic fibrosis which causes excess mucus in various organs and is associated with respiratory complications and salty sweat. Treatment of cystic fibrosis has primarily taken two approaches: a mutation-specific method, targeted at a particular mutation to restore its function, and a mutation-non-specific method, which modulates intracellular barriers to CFTR trafficking or cellular repression of mutant protein function. This paper presents …

Lead Exposure: Neurological Implications, Transmission In Utero, And Treatment, Chana Birnbaum

The Science Journal of the Lander College of Arts and Sciences

Blood lead levels are routinely measured in pediatric clinics due to the well-documented detrimental effects of lead exposure on neurodevelopment and consequently cognition. Reading difficulties, impaired detailed movement, and depressed reaction time are three areas, among others, implicated in lead toxicity (Needleman, 1990). Furthermore, lead toxicity can be of particular concern in pregnant women, as placental transmission is viable (Gundacker & Hengstschläger, 2012, as cited in Sun et al., 2018). Future research investigating the transmission of lead from mother to fetus may provide insight into the timeline of in utero lead transmission and consequently the ability to direct anti-toxicity treatment …

Is Ozempic A Safe Way To Lose Weight?, Elizer Terebelo

The Science Journal of the Lander College of Arts and Sciences

Obesity, as classified by the AHA, is a chronic disorder affecting many people worldwide. Providing treatments for obesity is a multi-million-dollar industry. There are many different types of treatments offered for obesity, ranging from pills to surgeries. Ozempic has been touted as an FDA-approved supplement that can help someone lose weight. These GLP-1 agonists are used to treat type-2 diabetes and have been shown to help patients lose weight. Type-2 diabetes is a chronic illness that can lead to cardiovascular disease, stroke, kidney failure, serious eye disease, neuropathy, and many other diseases. For this reason, most risks that Ozempic would …

Is It Possible For Glp-1ras To Combat Type 2 Diabetes And Its Comorbidities?, Michael Weingarten

The Science Journal of the Lander College of Arts and Sciences

Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus is a prevalent metabolic disorder characterized by insulin resistance and pancreatic beta-cell dysfunction, leading to chronic hyperglycemia and comorbidities such as obesity and cardiovascular disease. Traditional treatments focus on glycemic control, but often fail to address the broader spectrum of related conditions. This study investigates the potential of glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1RAs) to combat type 2 diabetes and its comorbidities through their diverse mechanisms of action. GLP-1RAs not only improve glycemic control by enhancing insulin secretion and inhibiting glucagon release, but also promote weight loss, reduce inflammation, and lower cardiovascular risk. The efficacy of GLP-1RAs …

Muscle Degradation Due To Aging And The Role Of Exercise In Aging Adults, Chava Rosenbaum

The Science Journal of the Lander College of Arts and Sciences

Skeletal muscle contraction is essential for the human body’s movement, balance, and formation. As aging sets in, the skeletal muscular system begins to decay, leading to a decline in muscle strength, reducing strength, and increasing the risk of falling. Studies have found changes in hormone levels and muscle communication are key factors contributing to muscle movement and mass decline. Consequently, different exercise methods have been explored to slow down the rapidly deteriorating muscles and help maintain a healthy, strong muscular system. This paper delves into specific exercise routines proven through studies to be beneficial for the body. While some research …

Is Manual Therapy An Effective Modality Of Physical Therapy?, Caryn Karfunkel

The Science Journal of the Lander College of Arts and Sciences

Physical therapy provides relief to patients with musculoskeletal disorders who experience pain and have difficulty functioning. Manual therapy is one of the therapeutic modalities of physical therapy, and helps treat patients through utilizing human touch and pressure. This paper analyzes studies that aim to understand the reasoning behind manual therapy’s effectiveness as a physical therapy modality, questioning whether its benefits are primarily biomechanical or psychological. The research was conducted by analyzing relevant literature on academic databases on topics such as pain, physical therapy, manual therapy, and human touch. The findings reveal that manual therapy is an effective modality of physical …