Biotechnology Commons^™

Agricultural Biotechnology In The Courts: Judicial Opinions And Commentary, Drew L. Kershen

Faculty Articles

Seven jurisdictions from around the world have issued judicial opinions that address fundamental issues about the governance and regulatory systems of agricultural biotechnology. This article summarizes these legal proceedings and describes their impact upon agricultural biotechnology. The article then provides a commentary and critique of the legal proceedings and resulting judicial opinions.

Advancing Single-Molecule Nanopore Sensing: From Protein Conformation And Metal Binding To Dna Transport Via Hybrid Nanostructures, Matthew J. Odonohue

Multidisciplinary Studies Theses and Dissertations

This dissertation presents the development and application of solid-state and hybrid nanopore platforms for single-molecule analysis of biomolecular interactions. First, a silicon nitride nanopore was employed to characterize the conformational states of the transferrin receptor (TfR), enabling discrimination between its monomeric and dimeric forms, as well as from its ligand, human serum transferrin (hSTf), despite their similar molecular weights. In a separate study, the same nanopore configuration was used to track the real-time binding of titanium ions to transferrin, demonstrating single-molecule sensitivity to metal-induced conformational changes. A hybrid microtubule–solid-state nanopore (MT–SSN) was then engineered, repurposing microtubules as electrostatically anchored conduits …

Volumetric Imaging Of Cellular Dynamics Using Light-Sheet Microscopy: From Subcellular Structures To Whole Organisms, Md Nasful Huda Prince

Optical Science and Engineering ETDs

Advancing biomedical imaging requires platforms that combine high-resolution, speed, and stability across biological scales. This dissertation presents three innovations designed to address limitations of conventional light-sheet and oblique plane imaging. First, we introduce Reflected Inline Detection in Epi-Oblique Plane Microscopy (RIDE-OPM), a compact and drift-resistant system that eliminates a tertiary detection path while maintaining alignment flexibility, enabling robust long-term live imaging. Second, we present a high-speed Axially Swept Light-Sheet Microscopy (ASLM) platform for cleared tissues, using dual foci and synchronized sweeping to achieve isotropic sub-micron resolution at up to 40 frames-per-second, a fourfold improvement over standard ASLM. Integrated with a …

Applying Transcriptomics For Technology Development And Conservation In North American Marine Organisms, Cory Von Eiff

Dissertations

RNA biology is a rapidly expanding field, with many avenues of discovery among marine organisms. In this study, we analyze both mollusks and sawfish. First, we perform an evaluation of sRNA biogenesis pathways throughout Mollusca, with emphasis on the easter oyster, Crassostrea virginica. Understanding these molecules prescribes RNAi-based gene silencing approaches, benefiting genetic investigation and biotechnology. Similar to other animal groups, mollusks have conserved microRNAs (miRNAs), with some shared with ecdysozoans and deuterostomes; however, there is no evidence of an endogenous small interfering RNA (siRNA) pathway. These results suggest that long double-stranded RNA (dsRNA)-based RNAi is not appropriate for gene …

Modeling U.S. Corn Production Archetypes In The Agricultural Policy/Environmental Extender Model To Generate Life Cycle Assessment Inventory Data, Brandon Taylor

Graduate Theses and Dissertations

Corn (Zea mays) is an important crop grown across the US for many uses such as grain for animal feed, bio-ethanol production, food products, and industrial products. Corn is produced in almost every state in the US, but most corn production is concentrated in the Corn Belt Region including Iowa, Illinois, Ohio, Indiana, Minnesota, and Nebraska. Although technologies and production practices are improving corn production efficiency primarily through increased yields (improved land use), corn production at this scale greatly impacts the environment through emissions from fertilizer and pesticide runoff and leaching, soil degradation due to improper field practices, as well …

Reframing Sleep Diagnostics: A Structured Clinical Guide To Polysomnography Evaluation, Elvie Zulka Kautzia Rachmawati, Mikhael Yosia

AUIQ Complementary Biological System

Polysomnography (PSG) remains the gold standard for evaluating sleep-disordered breathing (SDB) and related conditions, yet its clinical potential is often limited by overreliance on the apnea-hypopnea index (AHI) and similar summary metrics. This narrative review offers a structured, physiology-informed approach to PSG interpretation that integrates sleep architecture, arousal burden, respiratory event morphology, oxygenation patterns, and CO₂ trends. Recognizing phenotypic patterns-such as REM-related and positional OSA-through sleep stage and positional stratification is essential for directing targeted therapy. We outline common interpretive pitfalls, including automated scoring errors, overlooked signal artifacts, and the first night effect, emphasizing the need for careful manual …

Transformative Role Of Laser Technology In Ophthalmology And Dermatology: A Mini Review Of Precision Applications In Modern Medicine, Haider Hameed, Maryam Aqeel, Hussein Rafid, Rasha Sabah, Mustafa Fadhel, Zahraa Hameed, Muqtada Khalawi, Zahraa Sarmed, Ail Ahmed, Ayat Abd Albari, Lina M. Shaker

AUIQ Complementary Biological System

Laser technology has significantly transformed healthcare and biological sciences by Laser devices are offered precision, efficiency, and Multiple simple solutions in various medical fields and research domains. In ophthalmology, lasers play a pivotal role in vision correction, retinal imaging, and therapeutic applications, such as femtosecond laser-assisted LASIK and two-photon fluorescence scanning laser ophthalmoscopy. Dermatology has also benefited from CO₂, Nd:YAG, excimer, and Q-switched lasers, which are widely used for pigmentation disorders, tattoo removal, and skin rejuvenation. Moreover, Low-Level Laser Therapy (LLLT) enhances wound healing and tissue regeneration, while intense pulsed light (IPL) and diode lasers improve hair removal …

The Influence Of Myocardin Effector Genes On The Tgf-Beta Smad3 Signaling Pathway In Human Pleural Mesothelial Cells, Hema Chandra Hrushi Dusharla

Biotechnology Theses

Pleural Fibrosis (PF) involves excessive extracellular matrix (ECM) deposition, mainly by myofibroblasts, leading to pleural thickening and impaired lung function. Pleural mesothelial cells (PMCs) contribute via mesothelial and mesenchymal transition (MesoMT), triggered by cytokines like TGF-β. Our lab identified Myocardin (MyoCD), a transcriptional co-activator of cardiac and smooth muscle, is a master regulator of pleural fibrosis through interactions with serum response factor (SRF) and Smad2/3 transcription factors which initiate fibrosis signaling. RNA sequencing and qPCR analysis revealed that silencing MyoCD decreased the expression of CTNNB1, MDFI, and Tspan2. MDFI emerged as a potent candidate, as this gene affecting the expression …

The High Burden Of Depression, Anxiety, And Stress Among University Students In Southern Iraq: A Cross-Sectional Study, Hassan Al-Karagoly, Zahraa Al-Attar, Hjar Al-Asadi, Sajad Al-Lahibi, Russul Al-Fartousi, Teeba Al-Jadry, Menatallah Bali, Baneen Al-Hasnawi, Hanan Al-Aboudi, Zainab Al-Fadliu, Ali Al-Mosawi, Zahraa Al-Aboudi, Qassim Al-Rubaie, Mohsin Al-Samawi, Abdulsalam Halboup

AUIQ Complementary Biological System

University students often face significant academic, social, and environmental pressures, making them particularly vulnerable to psychological distress. Despite this, there is limited evidence regarding the prevalence and associated factors of mental health problems among university students in Iraq. Therefore, this study aimed to assess the prevalence and severity of depression, anxiety, and stress in this population and to examine their associations with sociodemographic characteristics, insomnia, internet use, and physical activity. A cross-sectional study was conducted among Iraqi university students using a structured questionnaire, including the DASS-21, Insomnia Severity Index, and Internet Addiction Test. Descriptive and inferential statistics were used to …

Knowledge Of Hiv Transmission And Prevention Among University Students In Pakistan: A Cross-Sectional Study, Muhammad Saleem, Sajid Masood, Shahid Hussain

Journal of Bioresource Management

HIV/AIDS remains a significant public health problem internationally, with young adults being especially at risk because of behavioral and knowledge deficits. In Pakistan, cultural inhibitions and suboptimal health education are the main reasons for limited awareness, particularly among university students. This study had the objectives of determining the knowledge level about HIV transmission and prevention among undergraduate students in Kohsar University Murree (KUM) and to investigate correlations with salient demographic variables. A cross-sectional survey was carried out among 510 students aged 18-27 years through a pre-validated, standardized questionnaire with 12 knowledge-based items. Descriptive statistics and Chi-square tests were utilized to …

Phylogenetic Analysis Of Ftsz In Wolbachia: Implications For Host Specificity, Anwar Rovik, Ayu Rahayu

Makara Journal of Science

Wolbachia are the most prevalent and successful endosymbiont in invertebrates and are categorized into 21 supergroups based on genetic phylogeny. The filamenting temperature-sensitive Z (FtsZ) protein is essential for bacterial cell division and is hypothesized to play a role in Wolbachia's control of host reproduction. However, despite FtsZ's importance, little is known about its diversity and function within Wolbachia. This study investigated the variability of the FtsZ-encoding gene among Wolbachia strains and their hosts. FtsZ gene sequences were retrieved from the National Center for Biotechnology Information database, and representative sequences were randomly selected from each host species and analyzed …

Thermochemical Conversion Of Oily Sludge, Composition, Hazards, And Treatment Strategies: An Overview, Mahmod A. Abdulqader

AUIQ Complementary Biological System

Oily sludge (OS) is considered one of the most complex by-products produced in the petroleum industry as an unwanted. This work aims to provide a comprehensive review focused on the dangers of stockpiled OS, its sources and contents, as well as its complex composition. This study also analyzes the global annual generation and stockpiling quantities of OS. Therefore, the thermochemical conversion, hydrothermal carbonization (HTC) char produced via HTC called hydrochar, pyrolysis (PY) char produced via PY named pyro-char, and microwave (MW) processes, while the char produced MW labeled micro-char. In conclusion, this study will facilitate researchers and provide a clear …

Effect Of Different Nutrient Media On Mycelial Growth Of Different Species Of Medicinal Mushroom, Luna Ahmad, Fahed Albiski, Ramzi Murshed, Hijazi Mando, Bssam Al Okla

Journal of the Arab American University مجلة الجامعة العربية الامريكية للبحوث

The research was carried out in 2022 in the National Commission for Biotechnology (NCBT). The aim is studying the mycelium growth of 5 commercial strains of four medicinal mushroom: Ganoderma lucidum (G.l), Agaricus blazei (A.b), Hericium erianaceum (H.e) and Lentinus edodes (Tow strains: strain M3782 (L.e1) and strain straw (L.e2)), sourced of Aloha company of USA on four nutrient growth media: Potato Dextrose Agar (PDA), Malt extract Agar (MEA), Sabouroud Dextrose Agar (SDA) and Corn meal agar (CMA). The following mycelium growth parameters were studied: mycelium height (H), mycelium diameter (D), mycelium density (G), growth rate (GR) and growth coefficient …

Detection Of Quorum-Sensing Molecules In The Mutualistic Bacteria Vibrio Fischeri Exposed To Simulated Microgravity Using Cell-Based Biosensors., Paulina Slick, Maria C. Tobarra, Alba A. Chavez, Hugo Castillo

Beyond: Undergraduate Research Journal

Bacteria flourish in multiple environments when communicating with each other in a process known as Quorum Sensing. This process is accomplished by the production of small signaling molecules referred to as Autoinducers (AI). This communication allows the bacteria to alter their gene expression in an effort to regulate their cell number, behavior, community formation and virulence. The space environment provides stressful conditions for bacteria as they are exposed to radiation and Microgravity (µG or MG) altering synthesis and concentration of Autoinducers. The purpose of this research was to expose the model system Vibrio fischeri to simulated microgravity using the recently …

Resveratrol And Il-6 Modulation Of Cxcl1 Expression And Viability In Human Breast Cancer Cell Lines, Entkhab M. A. Alanisi, Aida H. Alobaidi, Khalid Alyodawi

AUIQ Complementary Biological System

This study aims to investigate, through in vitro methods, the molecular, immunofluorescent, and immunohistochemical effects of resveratrol and IL-6 on CXCL1 gene/protein expression in human breast cancer cells (MCF-7). MCF-7 and MCF-10A cell lines were cultured and divided into four groups: control, IL-6-treated, resveratrol-treated, and a combination-treated group. CXCL1 gene expression was assessed by real-time PCR (RT-PCR), while CXCL1 protein levels were analyzed using immunofluorescence and immunohistochemistry. Cell viability was quantified by MTS assay using ELISA. CXCL1 gene/protein was overexpressed in MCF-7 cells, especially in the IL-6-treated group, but reduced in both resveratrol and combination-treated groups. MTS assay showed increased …

Gardenia Jasminoides Extract As A Potential Neuroprotective Agent In An In Vitro Tauopathy Model, Inas Birekdar

Theses and Dissertations

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder marked by the selective loss of neurons in various brain regions, leading to cognitive dysfunction. Neurofibrillary tangles (NFTs), composed of hyperphosphorylated tau protein accumulate within neuronal cells leading to cell death. The development of effective treatments for neurodegenerative diseases (NDs) remains a significant challenge, with neuroprotection emerging as a promising therapeutic strategy to slow disease progression and preserve cognitive function.

Objective: This study aims to investigate the potential neuroprotective effect of Gardenia jasminoides fruit extract, which contains geniposide, a biologically active compound known for its neuroprotective properties, in mitigating Tau hyperphosphorylation in …

Cisplatin Palbociclib Combination Differentially Modulates Pten Akt Signaling Via Hsp90 In Hepatocellular Carcinoma Cells., Eman Ramadan

Pharmacy

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) presents a significant global health challenge, marked by high mortality and recurrence. This study investigated the synergistic potential of cisplatin and palbociclib (C + P) against HCC cell lines. RT-qPCR revealed that C + P significantly downregulated HCC-related genes, including Hsp90, β-catenin, and components of the PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway, compared to cisplatin alone and controls. Western blotting confirmed a reduction in phosphorylated AKT (P-AKT) with palbociclib and C + P, while PTEN, a tumor suppressor, was upregulated in the C + P group. Annexin V-FITC assays demonstrated a substantial increase in apoptosis in palbociclib and C + P …

Effects Of Probiotic Supplementation On Growth Performance, Nutrient Digestibility, And Enteric Methane Emission Of Growing Dairy Buffaloes (Bubalus Bubalis L.), Christian Lualhati, Karl Reginald Managa, Charity Castillo, Phoebe Lyndia Llantada, Arnel Del Barrio

The Philippine Agricultural Scientist

This study assessed the impact of probiotics on the growth performance, nutrient digestibility, and enteric methane emission of 4 growing dairy buffaloes (Bubalus bubalis L.) with similar body weight, age, and sex. The animals were allocated into 4 treatments following a Latin Square design: control/no probiotic supplement (Trt 1); with 5 mL of probiotic supplement (Trt 2); with 10 mL of probiotic supplement (Trt 3); and with 15 mL of probiotic supplement (Trt 4). The growers were offered the dietary treatments at the start of the adaptation phase up to the end of the experimental phase per period. Animals …

Antimicrobial Activity In Auxin-Induced Formation Of In Vitro Culture- Derived Aloe Vera Roots, Eufrocinio Marfori, Bernadette Rapiz

The Philippine Agricultural Scientist

Aloe vera is a perennial, succulent plant which has been used in folk medicine for wound-healing, as its roots have been reported to exhibit remarkable antimicrobial properties. However, collecting the roots is detrimental to plant growth and development. Hence, an alternative system of producing A. vera roots must be developed. Tissue culture is a potential tool to obtain A. vera root biomass, which can serve as raw materials for the large-scale production of antimicrobial compounds. In this study, individual shoots taken from the multiple shoot culture of A. vera were induced to form roots in MS medium supplemented with 1 …

A Review On The Cytogenetic Integrity Of Micropropagated Plants [Review Paper], Eliaza Alumbro Peniton Jr

The Philippine Agricultural Scientist

Cytogenetic stability is essential for the survival of micropropagated plants. While micropropagation allows rapid propagation of plants with desirable phenotypes, it may also produce genetic variations that are, at times, cytogenetically observable. Factors affecting these variations are not fully understood, and micropropagation protocols are optimized to produce genetically stable regenerants. The genetic stability of micropropagated plants is traditionally assessed by comparing the phenomorphological traits of the regenerants to the mother plant. However, genetic variation does not often result in obvious morphological changes. Therefore, molecular and cytogenetic markers are typically used to evaluate the genetic variations of regenerants. Moreover, analyzing plant …