Ling Lin, Amanda M. Pritzlaff, H. C. Lower, D. Savin
{"title":"The Synthesis of Protein Polymer Conjugates using the Human Regulatory Protein Galectin-3","authors":"Ling Lin, Amanda M. Pritzlaff, H. C. Lower, D. Savin","doi":"10.32473/ufjur.v21i2.108726","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.32473/ufjur.v21i2.108726","url":null,"abstract":"Galectin-3 (gal3) is a human lectin protein that is known to interact with extracellular matrix proteins by regulating functions in both healthy and cancerous cells. The goal of this project is to conjugate polymers to gal3 to better study and control its functions in vitro. We hypothesize that a covalently attached polymer will sterically modulate gal3 function. In the project, we created two protein variants with polymer-reactive handles. The first construct is similar to wild-type gal3 with a cysteine in place of the 6th serine (S6C) which was created by site-directed mutagenesis (SDM). Maleimide-terminated polyethylene oxide (PEO, 5000 g/mol) was then attached to this mutant via thiol-Michael addition at the cysteine site. Attachment of polymer to the unstructured N-terminal domain (NTD) may increase the binding of the protein by sterically pulling the NTD away from the carbohydrate recognition domain (CRD). In addition, the NTD, which is implicated in undesired self-association, was removed for the second construct. The gal3 CRD only construct is shown to have a higher solubility in solution and an increased ligand-binding affinity. Ultimately, the two unique constructs will help us understand the structural role of the NTD in gal3 ligand-binding and self-association.","PeriodicalId":278243,"journal":{"name":"UF Journal of Undergraduate Research","volume":"13 1","pages":"0"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2020-02-13","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"127799257","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
{"title":"Role of a Specific P53 Binding Site in Limiting Tissue Overgrowth","authors":"Cheyenne Heflin, Haya Ghannouma, Lei Zhou","doi":"10.32473/ufjur.v21i2.108518","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.32473/ufjur.v21i2.108518","url":null,"abstract":"The p53 protein is an important transcription factor known for maintaining tissue homeostasis by activating genes that have antiproliferative function, such as pro-apoptotic and cytostatic genes. Transcriptional activation of proapoptotic genes has displayed a fundamental role in mediating apoptosis during Drosophila development. Using ChIP-Seq and RNA-Seq methods, we have identified p53 binding sites potentially responsible for p53-mediated induction of pro-apoptotic genes following DNA damage. We have since generated fly lines with the p53 binding site deleted by CRISPR-Cas9-mediated genome editing. To study the effects of the p53 binding site knockout (p53BSKO) on tissue homeostasis, wings of the knockout fly line were dissected, mounted, and then compared against WT wings. Results show p53BSKO animals had an increase in wing size compared to that of the WT. FijiWings 2.2 macros software was used to measure wing hair (trichome) densities, which is directly proportional to cell numbers. This analysis showed that p53BSKO led to hyperplasia of the wing as compared to the WT. Our study indicated that this single P53BS is required for ensuring the right number of cells in a given tissue, likely through mediating overproliferation-induced apoptosis.","PeriodicalId":278243,"journal":{"name":"UF Journal of Undergraduate Research","volume":"5 1","pages":"0"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2020-02-13","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"128614527","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
{"title":"Role of p53-Mediated Apoptosis in Limiting Metastasis","authors":"Sandra Anne Hegeman, Haya Ghannouma, Lei Zhou","doi":"10.32473/ufjur.v21i2.108535","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.32473/ufjur.v21i2.108535","url":null,"abstract":"p53 is a transcription factor known to play important roles in limiting tumorigenesis, including controlling the induction of pro-apoptotic genes and apoptosis in response to oncogenic stress. Using ChIP-Seq and RNA-Seq, our lab has identified p53 binding sites potentially responsible for p53-mediated induction of pro-apoptotic genes following DNA damage. Using CRISPR Cas9, we have generated fly strains with deletions or mutations within the p53 binding motif located in the experimentally verified p53 binding site. This deletion blocked DNA damage induced apoptosis. To study the functionality of the motif in limiting tumorigenesis, we introduced the deletion into a genetic tumorigenesis and metastasis model, where the tumor-suppressor cell polarity gene scribble was knocked down via shRNAi in the non-essential tissue compound eye and introduced together with strong oncogenic mutation that can lead to neoplasia and metastasis. We developed a scoring scale to quantify the severity of neoplasia and metastasis, where 0 indicates a wild type phenotype and 5 indicates the most severe metastatic phenotype. Results show that the p53BSKO predominantly displayed a score of 5 (39%). However, our preliminary results also suggested that the severity of this model may also subject to genetic background besides the p53 binding motif.","PeriodicalId":278243,"journal":{"name":"UF Journal of Undergraduate Research","volume":"29 1","pages":"0"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2020-02-13","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"125048285","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Courtney Mercedes Spillman, Lorelie Imperial, Kent J. Crippen
{"title":"Perception and Experience of In-Sequence and Out-of-Sequence Engineering Students in a General Chemistry Laboratory","authors":"Courtney Mercedes Spillman, Lorelie Imperial, Kent J. Crippen","doi":"10.32473/ufjur.v21i2.108496","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.32473/ufjur.v21i2.108496","url":null,"abstract":"The ChANgE Chem (NSF-1625378) utilizes Cognitive Apprenticeship as a theoretical framework for integrating engineering practices into a freshman chemistry laboratory course for engineering majors with the goal of better supporting all students to degree completion. The activities are structured as three-week Design Challenges (DCs) where students use chemistry knowledge to solve authentic engineering problems. This study explores the experiences of students taking the course in-sequence (i.e. fall of freshman year) versus those taking it out-of-sequence (i.e. spring), where out-of-sequence students have been identified as at higher academic risk. Data was collected through audio and video recordings and post-laboratory surveys. Video recordings were coded using a protocol to identify type and frequency of issues and questions asked. The post-laboratory surveys obtained information concerning students’ perception of task difficulty and their feelings of being like an engineer. The data demonstrated that while out-of-sequence students ask more questions and experience more issues, they did feel like successful engineers and did not find the tasks too difficult. Therefore, additional curriculum supports as well as assistance from a Teaching Assistant are needed in order to positively influence the persistence of out-of-sequence students in spite of the challenges they may face.","PeriodicalId":278243,"journal":{"name":"UF Journal of Undergraduate Research","volume":"30 1","pages":"0"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2020-02-11","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"130548886","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
{"title":"The Effects of Histone Deacetylase (HDAC) Inhibitors on FASN Intracellular Localization in Cancer Cells","authors":"E. Colvin, Daiqing Liao","doi":"10.32473/ufjur.v21i2.108423","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.32473/ufjur.v21i2.108423","url":null,"abstract":"Understanding mechanisms underlying cancer biology is crucial for discovering novel and effective therapies to improve patient outcome. Increased lipid production is a major metabolic feature in cancer. The fatty acid synthase (FASN) is a key enzyme for lipid synthesis and is upregulated in cancer. Although fatty acid synthesis is generally thought to take place in the cytoplasm, it has been reported that this enzyme also localizes to the nucleus in cancer cells. We hypothesize that the intracellular localization FASN could be a potential target to decrease lipid synthesis and ultimately halt cell proliferation. Protein acetylation has been shown to regulate protein intracellular localization. We aim to assess the impact histone deacetylase inhibitors (HDACi) have on the intracellular location of FASN with the goal of reducing de novo lipid production and cancer cell proliferation. We have examined intracellular localization of FASN in cells using immunofluorescence microscopy in cancer cells treated with HDACi and did not detect obvious HDACi-induced changes in FASN localization. FASN is also regulated by other mechanisms such as phosphorylation. Future studies will examine effects of kinase inhibitors on FASN intracellular localization.","PeriodicalId":278243,"journal":{"name":"UF Journal of Undergraduate Research","volume":"162 1","pages":"0"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2020-02-10","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"123027701","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
K. J. Elliott, S. Dupre, Faan Jeanne-Marie R. Stacciarini Rn
{"title":"Social Networks and Mental Health of Rural Latino Adolescents in North Florida","authors":"K. J. Elliott, S. Dupre, Faan Jeanne-Marie R. Stacciarini Rn","doi":"10.32473/ufjur.v21i2.108860","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.32473/ufjur.v21i2.108860","url":null,"abstract":"AbstractThere is limited research on mental health in rural Latino communities, particularly with adolescents. The aims of this study were to: 1) describe the evidence of social networks and mental health research in rural Latino communities and 2) illustrate themes related to the social networks and mental health depicted by rural Latino adolescents. A secondary data analysis study was performed, using data collected through semi-structured interviews (N=59) with adolescents, 11-17 years-old, living in three rural counties of North Florida. The interviews were conducted by community health workers (promotoras), in either Spanish or English; exploring family and community relations. NVivo 12 was used to aid in managing and thematically analyzing the data. Major themes were analyzed as Protective and Risk factors for mental health. A social network framework was then created under these themes including Family, School, Outside Community and Immigration Policy as main categories. The findings of this study highlight the need for mental health promotion interventions with rural Latino adolescents and can be used to influence future studies of social networks and mental health.","PeriodicalId":278243,"journal":{"name":"UF Journal of Undergraduate Research","volume":"294 1","pages":"0"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2020-02-10","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"131965410","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
{"title":"Learning Dance: Defining Efficiency and Precision Through Animation","authors":"Danielle Sara Frost","doi":"10.32473/ufjur.v21i2.108429","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.32473/ufjur.v21i2.108429","url":null,"abstract":"Bodily efficiency and precision are crucial components in the execution of ballet technique. In conjunction with traditional studio ballet training, three-dimensional animation can showcase correct body placement, posture, and alignment during the execution of ballet technique helping dancers prevent injuries as well as maintain body longevity. Having digital three-dimensional animation as a pedagogical tool can help teachers, students, and parents see how steps should be executed from different angles. Such technology can also bring students’ attention to common mistakes without the risk of repeated human error. Dancers can compare videos of three-dimensional animated figures showcasing correct ballet technique to videos of themselves in order to see where they may be misaligning their bodies and causing potential injuries or bad habits. This pedagogical tool can also be helpful for those who have limited access to taking ballet classes but would still like to learn in an efficient and safe manner. ","PeriodicalId":278243,"journal":{"name":"UF Journal of Undergraduate Research","volume":"11 1","pages":"0"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2020-02-05","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"125043972","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
{"title":"Gastrointestinal Symptoms in Autism Spectrum Disorders","authors":"Jenna Logan Schuppener, J. Elder","doi":"10.32473/ufjur.v21i1.108746","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.32473/ufjur.v21i1.108746","url":null,"abstract":"The purpose of this study was to characterize individuals with autism spectrum disorders (ASD), who are part of a larger ASD study, in order to determine clinically useful ways to evaluate gastrointestinal (GI) symptomology. Thirty-three children (ages 3-16) were recruited from a variety of community agencies. Potential participants were screened using the Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule (ADOS). Parental informed consent was obtained from all participants and child assent when appropriate. Parents completed the Gastrointestinal Symptom Rating Scale, Bristol Stool Chart (BSC), and sociodemographic form. Of the 33 participants, 14 were currently experiencing gastrointestinal symptoms and had abnormal bowel movements. Seven had a history of gastrointestinal symptoms and abnormal bowel movements; two parents were unsure of their gastrointestinal health. According to the BSC rescore, 13 participants reported hard stools, 14 had normal stools, and six had loose stools. Moderate correlations were found among many GI symptoms (r33= .396 - .751) indicating that these could be clustered to create a profile. These findings are clinically significant because GI symptoms in ASD are difficult to diagnose due to communication and social impairments and may go undiagnosed and untreated. Further characterizing GI symptomology in this population is a logical role for nurse researchers since nurses are often on the front line intervening within the ASD population. ","PeriodicalId":278243,"journal":{"name":"UF Journal of Undergraduate Research","volume":"12 1","pages":"0"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2019-12-05","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"127382100","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
{"title":"I am Here. Where Are All the Other (Straight White) Male Dancers?","authors":"Tyler Steven Renfroe","doi":"10.32473/UFJUR.V20I3.106289","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.32473/UFJUR.V20I3.106289","url":null,"abstract":"In the demographics of the American dance world—both professional and social—one group appears to be underrepresented: straight white men. Despite being the second largest group of Americans and over-represented in many other fields of endeavor, they are proportionally the least represented in social dance. Those men that do dance often began later in their lives than their female peers. Why are so many straight white men missing-in-action on the dance floor; and why, despite boundaries built by social pressure and a lack of enthusiasm or desire to change that fact, do some of “us” slip through and onto the floor? Through oral accounts, personal experience, and literature research, the research examines why so many men refuse to dance, and the motivations of those men that do dance—like me.","PeriodicalId":278243,"journal":{"name":"UF Journal of Undergraduate Research","volume":"153 5","pages":"0"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2019-05-02","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"120972387","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}