Medicine and Health Sciences Commons^™

Novel Nanoformulation Of Piperlongumine Attenuates Pancreatic Tumor Desmoplasia And Modulates Tumor Immune Responses, Vivek K. Kashyap, Reinaldo Mandes, Neeraj Chauhan, Daniel Zubieta, Mohammed Sikander, Eswara N.H.K Ghali, Bilal B. Hafeez, Murali M. Yallapu, Subhash C. Chauhan

Research Symposium

Pancreatic cancer (PanCa) is characterized by a lack of early diagnosis, poor response to available therapeutic modalities, and chemoresistance. Gemcitabine (GEM) is currently considered the most effective therapy for PanCa; however, it shows only a marginal survival benefit of 6 months. This poor drug response has been attributed to desmoplasia, causes suboptimal drug delivery, alters tumor microenvironment (TME), which includes tumor surrounding blood vessels, fibroblasts, immune cells, extracellular matrix, and other signaling molecules and induces chemo-resistance in tumors. To overcome these existing issues associated with chemotherapy, the identification and development of novel therapeutic modalities are a pressing need. Piperlongumine (PL) …

Impact Of Acute Stress On Circadian Rhythm Regulation Of Locomotor Activity In Syrian Hamsters, Raquel A. Villarreal, Laura E. Garcia, Mario Gil

Research Symposium

Background: Disruptions of circadian rhythms, caused by factors such as environmental changes or stress, are linked to health conditions, including metabolic disorders, cardiovascular diseases, and mood disorders. Circadian rhythm disturbances are particularly relevant for understanding the etiology of conditions like insomnia, depression, and anxiety. The circadian rhythm, primarily regulated by the suprachiasmatic nuclei (SCN) in the hypothalamus, coordinates biological processes to align with daily environmental cycles. Acute stress, especially when experienced immediately upon waking, has been shown to disrupt these rhythms, impair sleep regulation, and exacerbate mood dysregulation. Given the significant clinical implications, understanding how stress impacts circadian rhythms is …

Heterogeneity Of Rna-Binding Protein Dnd1 In G0 Male Germ Cells May Provide A Selection Process For Spermatogonial Stem Cell Development, Kayla Friedman, Talia Hatkevich, Blanche Capel

Osmosis Magazine

The ability to reproduce is dependent upon proper development of the germline. In male Mus musculus, germline development involves male germ cells (MGCs) differentiating into spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs), the precursors for male gametes. During this differentiation period, MGCs enter a quiescent phase (G0), an essential stage for SSC development. This G0 phase accompanies changes in transcription as well as chromatin accessibility and re-methylation of DNA.

Research Summary, Abigail Mcentire, Dr. Michael Norris

Osmosis Magazine

Carbon dioxide emitted from combustion has been shown to be the primary cause of climate change, leading to many environmental issues both current and predicted for the future.

The Triassic Cuddle: A Tale Of Love And Extinction, Jack Dupuy

Osmosis Magazine

An injured amphibian crawls into a burrow to escape from harsh reality. Outside, the shrieks of dying animals pierce the silence over a hellish backdrop of flowing lava and dark, ominous clouds of volcanic ash. Still recovering from broken ribs and trying its best to survive the desolate conditions, the amphibian curls up next to the burrow's owner, a mammal-like reptile. Moments later, a flash flood traps and drowns the unlikely roommates, immortalizing their relationship for the next 250 million years.

Using Machines To Guide Your Online Shopping Decisions, Daniel Verdi Do Amarante

Osmosis Magazine

I bet you’ve heard the term artificial intelligence in various conversations by now. But do you understand the process of teaching machines to develop abilities that are comparable – sometimes even better – to those of humans? At the University of Richmond, Dr. Park’s lab does just that.

An Ever-Growing Web: Spider Silk In Medicine, Andrew Watts

Osmosis Magazine

For decades, graduates from the University of Richmond have crafted a robust web of alumni spanning various regions and professions. Much like its graduates, Richmond’s famed spider mascot has been capitalizing on the strength of its own web and engineering solutions to the most pressing problems in a new and rather unexpected territory–medicine.

Spider silk has unique chemical and physical properties that allow it to be used in many different capacities.

Re-Captcha, Isabel Dilandro

Osmosis Magazine

They tried to warn us of what would come, but we didn’t listen. Why should we? For years the world had told us that we were smarter than everything else. Better. More advanced. The very science of biology existed to remind us that we were the superior race. We were untouchable. Until now. If only we hadn’t ignored the warning signs. Perhaps we could have stopped the madness before it began. Unfortunately, we neglected to put a leash on the dog because we assumed it wouldn’t bite.

Letter From The Editor, Lily Dickson

Osmosis Magazine

Dear Reader,

Welcome to this semester's issue of Osmosis! We are a student-run magazine filled with all things science. This year, this includes scientific articles, research abstracts, and even science fiction stories, all written by fellow UR students. We have a talented group of writers, editors, and designers this year, and I cannot wait to share with you our fall issue. Whatever made you open up our magazine today, whether it be the cover art or the allure of science, I hope you find something you enjoy as much as we enjoyed putting it all together.

Thanks to all who …

Osmosis Magazine - Fall 2022

Osmosis Magazine

Osmosis is a student read, led, and written publication from the University of Richmond, focusing on all aspects of healthcare and science.

Ormeloxifene-Mediated Attenuation Of Β-Catenin Signaling In Hepatocellular Carcinoma Progression, Mohammed Sikander, Shabnam Malik, Daniel Zubieta, Anyssa Rodriguez, Molly Vela, Sheema Khan, Fathi T. Halaweish, Murali M. Yallapu, Meena Jaggi, Subhash C. Chauhan

Research Symposium

Background: Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the most prevalent form of primary liver cancer, with approximately 41,000 new cases and 29,000 deaths annually in the U.S. The management of HCC poses significant challenges due to severe toxicity and inadequate responses to existing chemotherapeutic agents. Aberrant β-catenin signaling is recognized as a crucial factor influencing the differentiation grades of HCC patients. Therefore, there is an urgent need to identify more effective and non-toxic β-catenin inhibitors for cancer treatment. Notably, ormeloxifene (ORM), a clinically approved selective estrogen receptor modulator with a favorable therapeutic index, has demonstrated remarkable anticancer activity, making it a promising …

Novel Analogue Of Ormeloxifene Suppresses Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition By Disrupting Β-Catenin Signaling In Cervical Cancer, Mohammed Sikander, Shabnam Malik, Sonam Kumari, Sheema Khan, John Apraku, Aditya Ganju, Parvez Khan, Fathi T. Halaweish, Murali Yallapu, Meena Jaggi, Subhash Chauhan

Research Symposium

Background: Cervical cancer (CxC) is a leading cause of mortality and morbidity among women worldwide. Current chemotherapeutic agents for CxC have shown systemic toxicity in CxC patients. Ormeloxifene (ORM) is a non-toxic and non-steroidal drug with well-defined pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic properties in humans. Studies have shown its anticancer potential in various pre-clinical mouse models. Here, we have synthesized and characterized a novel analogue of ormeloxifene, Bromo-ormeloxifene (Br-ORM), which showed more therapeutic efficacy against CxC in vitro and in vivo model systems.

Methodology: The effect of Br-ORM on CxC cells (CaSki and SiHa) growth and proliferation was determined by colony formation …

Proteomic Profiling Of Stress-Associated Proteins In Hepatocellular Carcinoma And The Hepatoprotective Effects Of Silymarin, Mohammad Shabir Hussain, Yamile A. Anaya, Amairani Sanchez, Sophia Leslie, Manish Kumar Tripathi

Research Symposium

Background: The liver is the principal organ responsible for the detoxification of exogenous and endogenous toxins, xenobiotics, and viruses and bacteria, making it susceptible to damage by various chemicals and metabolites that enter the body. In clinical relevance, Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a major global health concern, being the sixth most common cancer worldwide and third leading cause of cancer-related death. HCC accounts for 85–90% of liver cancers globally. Texas is projected to have the second-highest liver cancer-related deaths, with Hispanic populations experiencing the highest mortality rates. The liver, a vital metabolic organ, is particularly vulnerable to stress-induced damage. According …

Balancing Nutrients For The Seen And Unseen: A Study Of The Nitrate Levels At The University Of Richmond, Courtney Simpson, Nathan Winiarski

Osmosis Magazine

The Westhampton Lake is one of the University of Richmond’s most beautiful features. Though, when studied, the lake is a more complex ecosystem than it appears. While students can easily identify birds, reptiles, and fish, we often fail to recognize the importance of microscopic organisms and their role in nutrient reduction.

The Visionaries Of Today Are The Leaders Of Tomorrow, Ryan Cvelbar

Osmosis Magazine

Facebook has undergone big changes recently, most notably its name change to Meta. But perhaps the most rousing is its work in developing the Metaverse. Mark Zuckerberg’s Metaverse promises a future where people can immerse themselves in any virtual world of their choosing through virtual reality (VR) headsets like Oculus. Although being able to travel anywhere in the world, real or makebelieve, from the comfort of your home may sound like a dream, the current state of the Metaverse is rudimentary and more like that of a video game interface rather than an augmented reality experience.

The Catalytic Life Of Dr. Maud Menten, Emily Lekas

Osmosis Magazine

Although she is most famous for her work on enzyme kinetics, Dr. Maud Menten achieved the impossible in multiple areas of her life. She pursued and earned a scientific education in a time when no one wanted women to find passion in anything other than the home. Her discoveries have greatly impacted the scientific community and will continue to do so as long as there are those who are compelled to understand the natural world as she did. In addition to her accomplishments as a scientist, Menten also excelled in the humanities. Her life story provides us with many lessons …

The Octopus: An Alien On Earth, Jack Dupuy

Osmosis Magazine

Imagine scientists discover a new creature that can change colors at will and blend into any background. It can also shapeshift to imitate other species of animals. It even has arms that can smell and taste! Thankfully, this intelligent, alien creature cannot wreak havoc on earth’s soil, but it is not a figment of our wildest imagination. This creature lives in our oceans…

Breaking Myths: Do Artificial Sweeteners Help With Weight Loss?, Ruby Nguyen

Osmosis Magazine

Countless foods and beverages draw the average consumer in by sticking the label “sugar-free” on their packaging, knowing that many people want a healthier diet and lifestyle. However, science says that sugar substitutes don’t seem to help with weight loss. Diet culture makes eating fewer calories synonymous with eating healthy. The 20g protein, 10g fiber, and 0g sugar granola bar is good but reaching for that sugary chocolate chip cookie is naughty. Putting the milkshake back on the shelf and grabbing the kombucha is a sign of willpower.

Being The Best You, In Space Out Of This World Self-Care, Rachel Decker

Osmosis Magazine

The world we live in is a dangerous place, full of uncertainties that fill us with anxiety and stress. Beyond our world, space is also full of dangers: UV radiation, microgravity, and, potentially the worst of all, being stuck in a small space doing the same thing with the same handful of people for months. Astronauts undergo years of mental and physical training for the chance to go beyond the world as we know it. How do astronauts take care of themselves amidst all these dangers?

The Footprints Disrupting Pre-Historic American Archeology, Caterina Erdas

Osmosis Magazine

Bold claims that 60 ancient footprints in White Sands National Park in New Mexico are over 21,000 years ago, published broadly in 450 news outlets, are unconvincing to key archeologists of prehistoric America.

The Unhappy Triad, Isabel Dilandro

Osmosis Magazine

Growing up, sports are a central fixture in many people’s lives. A 2019 study showed that in America alone over half of youths aged 6-17 report participating in organized sports (Sports & Fitness Industry Association, 2020). Sports teach leadership, teamwork, dedication, and tenacity. But, with these valuable life lessons come injuries that have the potential to leave lasting impact. Knee injuries are particularly well known - and for good reason. These nasty impairments can leave a player recovering for, at the very least, the better half of a year. A particularly infamous group of sprains, known as the unhappy triad, …

Letter From The Editor, Caterina Erdas

Osmosis Magazine

Dear reader,

I am always surprised by how quickly the spring semester flies by. Thank you for curiously opening this issue of Osmosis during this crazy time. I hope our articles can delight and distract you. I will miss using this magazine to productively procrastinate as I did for three years. Being the Editor-in Chief-has been an honor, and I am thankful to everyone who contributed. Happy reading!

- Caterina Erdas, a lifelong Osmosis reader

Osmosis Magazine - Spring 2022

Osmosis Magazine

Osmosis is a student read, led, and written publication from the University of Richmond, focusing on all aspects of healthcare and science.

Artificial Neurons: The Next Step In Artificial Intelligence, Ryan Cvelbar

Osmosis Magazine

One source believes that the future of the technology industry is in AI stating, “by 2030 AI could elevate global GDP 14% from $14 to $15 trillion”5. However, finding the key to achieving optimal AI efficiency while minimizing energy requirements has proven to be quite the challenge. ... The significance of this artificial neuron is that it has the potential to make AI more energy efficient.

Let’S Worm In To The Guinea Worm Disease, Rachel Decker

Osmosis Magazine

Imagine living with another organism in your body, cohabiting for months before you are even aware of its presence. Slowly, a lesion starts to form on your leg. The lesion grows bigger everyday, starting at a couple millimeters but growing up to a couple centimeters. The burning sensation starts with the lesion and can only be dimmed by submerging your leg in water. Suddenly, a worm emerges from the lesion along with pus and blood. The patient is infected with Guinea Worm Disease.

The Science Of Tattoos, Isabel Dilandro

Osmosis Magazine

From face paint to temporary stick-on tattoos, children are taught that art on bodies is something beautiful and playful, associated with memories of fun and joy. Why is it then that tattoos get such an infamous reputation? The answer is pretty simple: tattoos are not temporary. But why? How does the ink get there? How does it stay put? In order to understand this process a bit more, it is important to have a basic understanding of the skin’s structure and function.

New Discovery Of Trans-Cortical Vessels (Tcvs) Sheds Light On Skeletal Blood Circulation, Franklin Wetmore

Osmosis Magazine

Weeks went by in which I didn’t address the blunt, gripping pain on my inner shin. Now, I was sitting on a paddleboard in the middle of a lake in Suffolk, Virginia. It was almost midnight and the air was cool and breezy. I pressed two fingers into the side of my tibia just to remind myself the shock was there. I feared for what I had done to myself.

Late! I’M Late For A Very Important Physics Update I’M Late! I’M Late For A Very Important Physics Update, Caterina Erdas

Osmosis Magazine

Modern physics is my only class where half the students are consistently late. It’s not a forgivable one or two minutes late, but five to fifteen. I say this as a culprit myself; I slept in late on the third day of class and didn’t go. It’s ironic, considering we spend a good portion of lecture re-defining time.

The Asu Tribe And Customs, Isabel Dilandro

Osmosis Magazine

Chandra Thapar, an Indian anthropologist, dedicated a portion of his career to the study of foreign cultures and how they relate to his native country. One in particular caught his specific attention due to its similarities in the reverence of a sacred animal, akin to how the cow is sacred to India. See below a short consolidation of his findings:

The tribe Dr. Thapar studied is called the Asu and is found on the North American continent north of the Tarahumara of Mexico.

Kennewick Man: A Rare Window Into Prehistoric Life In North America, Jack Dupuy

Osmosis Magazine

What would you do if you found a human skull on the banks of the James River? On July 28, 1996, two college students stumbled across a skull on the banks of the Columbia River in Kennewick, Washington. They believed it was a murder victim at first, but archeologists and scientists discovered that the skull was part of a nearly complete, 9,000 year-old skeleton.