Reducing the amount of error and introduced data variability increases the accuracy of Western blot results. In this study, different methods of normalization for loading differences and data alignment were explored with respect to their impact on Western blot results. GAPDH was compared to the LI-COR Revert total protein stain as a loading control. The impact of normalizing data to a control condition, which is commonly done to align Western blot data distributed over several immunoblots, was also investigated. Specifically, this study addressed whether normalization to a small subset of distinct controls on each immunoblot increases pooled data variability compared to a larger set of controls. Protein expression data for NOX-2 and SOD-2 from a study investigating the protective role of the bradykinin type 1 receptor in angiotensin-II induced left ventricle remodeling were used to address these questions but are also discussed in the context of the original study. The comparison of GAPDH and Revert total protein stain as a loading control was done by assessing their correlation and comparing how they affected protein expression results. Additionally, the impact of treatment on GAPDH was investigated. To assess how normalization to different combinations of controls influences data variability, protein data were normalized to the average of 5 controls, the average of 2 controls, or an average vehicle and the results by treatment were compared. The results of this study demonstrated that GAPDH expression is not affected by angiotensin-II or bradykinin type 1 receptor antagonist R-954 and is a less sensitive loading control compared to Revert total protein stain. Normalization to the average of 5 controls tended to reduce pooled data variability compared to 2 controls. Lastly, the results of this study provided preliminary evidence that R-954 does not alter the expression of NOX-2 or SOD-2 to an expression profile that would be expected to explain the protection it confers against Ang-II induced left ventricle remodeling.

This thesis worked towards the development of a parameterized 3D model off a cover that could go over any specific prosthesis depending on the parameters that had been entered. It also focused on gathering user inputs, which was done with the aid of the Amputee Coalition, that could be used to create an aesthetic design on this cover. The Amputee Coalition helped to recruit participants through its website and social media platforms. Finally, multiple methods of creating a design were developed to increase the amount of customization that a user could have for their cover.

Background: The US population faces a continual increase in obesity prevalence, raising health concerns due to associated comorbidities ranked as leading causes of preventable, premature death world-wide. Scientists have found a link between obesity-associated conditions and oxidative stress (OS). To date, renewed interest in the effectiveness of dietary regimens in decreasing body weight is a popular research topic. Intermittent fasting (IF) is a popular and promising weight management strategy. To date, there have been no systematic reviews examining whether IF can reduce oxidative stress in overweight/obese adults. <br/><br/>Objective: Conduct a systematic review to evaluate the effects of intermittent fasting (IF) regimens on circulating markers of oxidative stress in overweight/obese adults compared to continuous calorie restriction (CR). <br/><br/>Methods: Databases PubMed, SCOPUS, ProQuest, and Cochrane were searched on February 21, 2021 for eligible articles limiting selection to those in the English language. Predefined search terms and restrictions were applied by two of the authors conducting the search. References from articles generated were also considered. Selected articles were limited to randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and human trials evaluating the effects of intermittent fasting (IF) dietary regimens in comparison to continuous calorie restriction (CR). Study populations considered were limited to those within the range of 18-65 years having a body mass index (BMI) of ≥25 kg/m2 and in otherwise generally good health with the absence of pre-existing acute or chronic conditions. The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics Evidence Analysis Library Quality Rating Worksheet was used to assess the methodological quality of each of the studies and the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics Grade Definitions and Conclusion Grading Table were used to appraise the quality of evidence.<br/><br/>Results: Six articles met eligibility criteria and were included in this review. Cumulatively 355 overweight/obese participants were assessed. Quality ratings performed by two of the authors revealed a high-quality rating for all six of the articles. One of the articles reported a significant IF associated difference in circulating 8-isoprostane concentrations and another article reported a significant decrease in circulating oxidative lipoproteins concentrations. The remaining articles showed no significant difference on OS markers following IF. <br/><br/>Conclusions: Based on the six articles included in this systematic review, IF was concluded to have limited impact on reducing circulating markers of OS in overweight/obese adults. Overall, the evidence was heterogeneous in relation to IF interventions and outcomes precluding a meta-analysis. Consequently, evidence to make dietary recommendations for reducing oxidative stress with IF interventions is insufficient at this point.

This podcast explores the life of Cendraini, growing up in the developing country of Indonesia as well as her eventual immigration to America. It delves into prominent topics and history of Indonesia in regards to Cen's life. The podcast focuses on family, and how no matter the challenges that life may bring, family will be there for you.

Preeclampsia is a disease that occurs during pregnancy and affects upwards of 10% of pregnancies around the world (Osungbade & Ige, 2011). African American pregnant women are particularly vulnerable and die at a disproportionate rate compared to other races. In this literature review, three research studies were analyzed to determine if African American pregnant women were included in preeclampsia Studies. Only one of the studies included in this review met all criteria by including African American pregnant women. One research study met half of the criteria; however, the authors noted that there was not enough evidence for Black Americans. The third research article also only met half of the criteria. We conclude that further studies are needed that include African American women in studies on preeclampsia.

A research project turned creative project focusing on the narrative of the student's perspective in the Next Generation Service Corps scholarship program. Using survey results from the program members, narratives of their experiences were compiled to offer insight and direction for the growth of the program.<br/><br/>A video of the defense can be found at this link: https://youtu.be/O63NRz0z1Ys

The purpose of this creative project was to create a stereo sound system in a unique medium. As a team, we decided to integrate a Tesla Coil with a bluetooth audio source. These high frequency, high voltage systems can be configured to emit their electrical discharge in a manner that resembles playing tunes. Originally the idea was to split the audio into left and right, then to further segregate the signals to have a treble, mid, and base emitter for each side. Due to time, budget, and scope constraints, we decided to complete the project with only two coils.<br/><br/>For this project, the team decided to use a solid-state coil kit. This kit was purchased from OneTelsa and would help ensure everyone’s safety and the project’s success. The team developed our own interrupting or driving circuit through reverse-engineering the interrupter provided by oneTesla and discussing with other engineers. The custom interpreter was controlled by the PSoC5 LP and communicated with an audio source through the DFRobot Bluetooth module. Utilizing the left and right audio signals it can drive the two Tesla Coils in stereo to play the music.