Undergraduate Research Opportunities Portal

Description

The Baltzegar Lab studies rapid evolution that occurs in response to human-induced changes to the environment in insect vectors with human-health importance, including mosquitoes in the Aedes genus and the German cockroach, Blattella germanica. While primarily using population genomic approaches, we address our questions from an interdisciplinary perspective with the goal of improving human health outcomes by advancing vector management techniques through better understanding of vector biology. Current projects include: Rapid evolution in an insect vector of disease, range expansion of a disease vector in a changing climate, urban evolution of insecticide resistance with complex socio-economic dimensions, and the evolutionary history and identification of the glucose-averse gene in the German cockroach, Blattella germanica.

Description

Chemosensation, primarily associated with olfactory systems, is emerging as a critical factor influencing various physiological processes beyond traditional sensory perception. Recent evidence suggests that olfactory receptors (ORs) a are expressed in diverse tissues, including immune cells like macrophages and monocytes, where they may play a role in disease regulation. This project aims to investigate the role of chemosensation in the progression of metabolic diseases and cancer. Specifically, we will explore how endogenous metabolites, pheromone-like molecules, and dietary compounds interact with chemosensory receptors to influence cellular signaling, inflammation, and disease progression.

Description

Effects of Curved vs Flat treadmill on different leg muscles to investigate activity levels and %effort per treadmill. We are also investigating Ground Reactions Forces (GRFs) to see if the foot interacts with the ground differently on the treadmills. This will give us insight into athletic performance and injury risk.

Description

Get Fit! With Math & Lit is an after school program for youth that takes place at the HUB. The program occurs two times per week and promotes mathematics, reading, and writing through physical activity. Get Fit! utilizes the Teaching Personal and Social Responsibility model along with Culturally Relevant Pedagogies to create an environment that fosters a sense of belongingness while promoting holistic youth development. We focus on a word of the day that is a life skill, physical activities, and journaling.

Description

The purpose of this study is to determine if inhaling essential oils decreases pain-pressure threshold. Pain is felt when messengers in the body, called neurotransmitters, send signals to the brain. Essential oils can chemical constituents that might change how these messengers work, possibly making pain feel less intense. We will test four specific essential oils and one placebo to see if any help lower the level at which pain is perceived.The results of this study could help us understand if inhaling essential oils can be an effective way to reduce pain.

Description

"Who are you?" is a question that we, as a social creature, intuitively ask whenever we interact with other people. For instance, we may think of some people as Augusta University students and others as University of Georgia students. The answer to this question often shapes how we will view and interact with another person. According to the Social Identity Theory (SIT; Tajfel & Turner, 1979), the classification of ourselves and others into groups creates a filtered version of how we perceive other people and the world. In other words, how we view other people, and the world may not always represent objective reality but rather a distorted version of it based on our expectations. It is this filtered reality, what psychologists call perception, that underlies multiple related research projects from the Social Perception Research Interest Group (SPRIG).

Description

The rapid convergence of technology and sports has given rise to innovative spectator experiences, with the TMRW Golf League (TGL) standing at the forefront of this revolution. As a technology-infused sports league, TGL integrates advanced digital elements to the traditional game of golf, creating a dynamic, immersive environment for spectators. Understanding how these novel elements influence spectator engagement, satisfaction, and behavioral responses is critical for both academic inquiry and industry stakeholders. This project aims to leverage artificial intelligence (AI) techniques to explore and analyze TGL spectators’ responses, offering valuable insights into their cognitive, emotional, and behavioral interactions with the sport. By applying AI-driven methodologies such as natural language processing (NLP), sentiment analysis, and machine learning (ML), the study will provide a deeper understanding of spectators' perceptions, preferences, and future engagement intentions.

Description

This project is to develop novel treatment strategy for pediatric brain tumor using immunotherapy and chemotherapy. Both in vitro cell culture and animal models will be used to test the new therapeutics. Applicant has the chance to learn basic molecular biology, immunology and cell biology research techniques, apply training grant from pediatric tumor foundation.

Description

The neurons in our body extend long axons connecting to all parts of our body and form synapses with other neurons. Many synaptic proteins are generated in the cell body and have to navigate through long (up to meter) and highly branched axons. This is mediated through microtubule based motors kinesins and dyneins. Defects in transport of proteins contributes to a number of neurodevelopmental and neurodegenerative disorders. Research in the Tymanskyj lab investigates the mechanisms that regulate intracellular transport and neuronal morphogenesis. To do this we utilize a number of cell biology techniques such as molecular biology, cell and neuronal culture, optogenetics, live imaging and proteomics. These studies provide a foundation for understanding the cellular basis of an important fundamental question in neuronal development and provide insight into the mechanisms underlying neurodevelopmental and neurodegenerative disorders.

Description

Colorectal cancer (CRC) can be affected by a variety of factors, including sociodemographic characteristics, the presence of comorbidities, lifestyle factors, and personal/family history of CRC. Evidence shows that CRC is often diagnosed at an advanced stage that may lead to worse survival outcomes. In particular, CRC risk perceptions is an important factor on intention to CRC screening, which may have potential to improve CRC outcomes through early detection. Thus, this study is to evaluate the influence of CRC risk perceptions on CRC outcomes. Research activities through this project includes recruitment using survey, literature review, and basic data management.

Description

Although drugs targeting nucleotide metabolism have long been used as anti-cancer therapeutics, recent research highlights a more complex role for GTP metabolism in cancer progression than was previously appreciated. In particular, several publications support the hypothesis that GTP production is vital for cancer cell invasion and drug resistance. Thus, my newly established laboratory at GCC will study the role of GTP metabolism in these processes. We will use fluorescent biosensors and live-cell microscopy to study GTP dynamics in migrating melanoma cells. In parallel, we will develop and characterize novel sensors capable of detecting different purine species. This project will involve molecular cloning, microscopy, protein purification, cell culture, and other standard wet lab techniques.

Description

Students will explore storytelling through text and images by creating and designing Graphic Novels and Zines to self-publish and distribute through Printed Matter in NYC and FLUKE (a national zine conference) in Athens, GA. Students have a foundation in illustration and image sequencing and this project will require learning, researching, and developing creative strategies needed for narrative and concept development specific to Zines and Graphic Novels. Printmaking has a long history in social and political activism, through self-publishing small editioned books and pamphlets or hand-printed illustrated broadsides. Students will be encouraged to choose a topic of research and aesthetics for their Zine. After completing their Zines and Graphic Novels, students will follow the submission process for Printed Matter in NYC and FLUKE, a national conference in Athens, GA.

Description

The Constructive Mathematics Pathways Leveraging Experiences for Advancing Prospective Teachers’ Learning project aims to enhance the learning experiences of prospective elementary teachers (PSETs) in acquiring mathematics knowledge. This is achieved through inquiry-based exploration of the role of mathematics in other STEM disciplines and the development of sustainable teaching practices. An innovative ACE (Applying, Connecting, Experiencing) model will be implemented to foster an active learning environment for PSETs. The project employs mixed methods to evaluate its effectiveness in enhancing PSETs' mathematics and science teaching skills and changing their beliefs about these subjects. Undergraduate research assistants (UGAs) will support data collection by visiting university classrooms and after-school programs to gather survey data. UGAs will also assist in data analysis, including conducting statistical analyses and reviewing PSETs' reflection data.

Description

The Bradford lab investigates the role of the tumor microenvironment in triple negative breast cancer, which is a very aggressive subtype of breast cancer. This project will specifically examine how a cell signaling pathway, called the CXCR3/CXCL10 pathway, alters the invasive abilities of triple negative breast cancer cells. CXCR3/CXCL10 will be either promoted or inhibited in triple negative breast cancer cells, followed by an in-vitro invasion assay to determine the impact of altering this pathway on the aggressive property of invasion.

Description

The purposes of this research are to (1) develop a model that can explain LGBTQ consumers' purchase intention on sporting goods, (2) examine the mediator role of product design preference and satisfaction in the relationship between internalized homonegativity and LGBTQ consumers’ purchase intention, (3) examine the moderator role of self-esteem in the relationship between internalized homonegativity and LGBTQ consumers’ product design preference. The authors will consist of two experimental studies: 2 (internalized homonegativity: high vs. low) x 2 (self-esteem: high vs. low) and 2 (self-esteem: high vs. low) x 2 (product design: blatant vs. subtle). The expected satisfaction and purchase intention are dependent variables in both studies. The authors will collect 200 samples using Prolific. The data will be analyzed using SPSS by conducting two-way ANCOVA. This research may contribute to both the LGBTQ community and the sports industry by suggesting effective marketing strategies.

Description

My lab focuses on two main areas of study: -Ectothermic (cold-blooded) animal ecology, systematics, and biogeography -Use of the global network of natural history collection specimens and data to ask complex questions I am looking for a student interested in ecology/systematics/biogeography OR computer science - specifically querying large datasets or using machine learning and applications in diverse, heterogeneous data A project in one of these areas might focus on exploring distributions or ecology of a particular group of fishes, reptiles or amphibians OR might be focused solely on the use of computing power and bioinformatic tools to explore large datasets.

Description

My lab has been working with different breast cancer models since 2008. We have many patient-derived and commercially available cell lines from humans and rodents. At the moment, my laboratory concentrates on the tumor microenvironment. We use immunocompetent animals for orthotopic and resected metastatic breast cancer models, where we target immunosuppressive myeloid cells, M2 macrophages, and neutrophils. We also use engineered exosomes to target specific cells in the tumor microenvironment and stroke. We deliver different payloads to tumors and stroke to inhibit tumor growth and improve stroke outcomes. We used different molecular biology and imaging techniques. My lab has many ongoing projects directed at glioblastoma, stroke, breast cancer, and nanoparticles.

Description

Our lab has successfully developed an animal model of social avoidance through chronic social defeat stress. This model is designed to simulate conditions similar to those experienced in post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Many labs that use this stress paradigm only look at behaviors during the social interaction test. However, our lab recently made a new discovery: the stress responses during the social defeat phase are clearly different between susceptible and resilient mice. These differences are also affected by sex, with differences seen between male and female subjects.This research is significant as it expands our understanding of PTSD-like symptoms beyond the commonly studied post-stress behaviors, delving into the stress response phase itself. By identifying and characterizing the differences in stress responses, this study could reveal critical factors that contribute to resilience or susceptibility to stress-related disorders.

Description

Non-native Invasive plants in the Augusta Area are prevalent and reduce the biodiversity of our ecosystems. The student(s) will work to remove invasive plants from a riparian forest at Reed Creek Nature Center and then monitor the recovery of this ecosystem. Monitoring will include using plots to determine the growth of native plants after the removal of non-native plants. Planting and monitoring of native plants may also be needed.

Description

Student(s) will install and monitor wildlife trail cameras on Riverwatch Parkway to determine the risk of wildlife crossings. Riverwatch Parkway has a concrete barrier in the center that prevents safe passage of many wildlife species. The student(s) will determine what species cross the highway and the quantity of animals detected.

Description

Lumbriculus variegatus (blackworms) are used as model organisms to study water quality and environmental pollution. The aim of this project is to develop reliable bioassays with these organisms. Initial experiments will explore biotransformation reactions, including cytochrome P450 detoxification, which can serve as biomarkers of contaminant exposure. While these pathways are well-studied in vertebrates and some invertebrate groups, there is little information on these reactions in blackworms. Students will gain experience in several areas, including handling of the worms, dose calculation and preparation, and spectrophotometry. Initial tests will take place in a lab setting, but field sampling may follow once a successful procedure has been developed.

Description

The goal of this project is to find out if hyperpolarization-activated cyclic nucleotide-gated (HCN) channels, more specifically HCN1 or HCN2, are found in the hippocampus with glial cells. In previous studies, immunostaining with fluorescence and HCN1 or HCN2 antibodies, along with glial cell markers, did not reveal clear colocalization. This raises the question of whether the lack of observed colocalization was due to limitations in the resolution of the techniques used. This project uses confocal microscopy, which has a higher resolution, to confirm or disprove those earlier findings and find out if HCN channels are really found together with glial cells. By determining the colocalization of HCN channels with glial cells, we can better understand the cellular interactions within the hippocampus.

Description

Therapy-induced neuroendocrine prostate cancer (NEPC), an extremely aggressive variant of castration-resistant prostate cancer (CRPC), is increasing in incidence with the widespread use of highly potent androgen receptor (AR)-pathway inhibitors (APIs) such as Enzalutamide (ENZ) and Abiraterone. Neuroendocrine prostate cancer arises via a reversible trans-differentiation process, referred to as neuroendocrine differentiation (NED), wherein prostate cancer cells express neuronal characteristics. The molecular basis of NED is not completely understood leading to a lack of effective molecular markers for its diagnosis and effective therapy. Our research is focused on understanding mechanistic basis of this trans-differentiation, identifying novel molecular biomarkers for effective diagnosis of this variant and defining novel therapeutic strategies. We are using engineered exosomes to define novel therapeutic strategies for prostate cancer.

Description

Peripheral artery disease (PAD) is characterized by repeated ischemia-reperfusion, muscle damage, and mobility loss. Walking exercise improves mobility in PAD. Unfortunately, up to 45% of exercise participants do not improve. We hypothesize, muscle changes underlie exercise response with PAD. Understanding why some individuals improve mobility following exercise while others do not is the goal of our lab. We seek to characterize muscle from PAD participants who underwent 12 months of low-intensity versus high-intensity walking exercise, where only high-intensity exercise was shown to improve mobility. We will analyze muscle macrophage populations, capillary density, fiber size, and satellite cells, and explore relationships among these features and mobility at 12-month post-exercise. Muscle features will be determined by immunohistochemical characterization of biopsies collected pre- and post-exercise. We aim to identify muscle features common to PAD subjects who functionally improve.

Description

The immune system is endowed with the capacity to distinguish between self and non-self, a phenomenon referred to as immune tolerance or "immune consciousness." However, a breakdown in such tolerance mechanism can lead to a spectrum of autoimmune diseases, where the immune system initiates attacks on various organs within the body. In our laboratory, we are deeply interested in understanding the extent of the immune system's consciousness and how a loss of this awareness can contribute to disease development through intercellular communication, particularly among different T cell types. We have recently published a paper demonstrating that a specific subtype of T cells, activated memory T cells, can engage in cross-talk and modulate the behavior of another subtype, naive T cells (Sasaki et al., 2022, Nature-CommsBio).

Description

In this project, we develop artificial intelligence (AI) algorithms that can create novel treatments for untreated diseases, considering the growing need for AI technology in drug development and the steady expansion of drug databases. The goal is to find a molecule that can chemically bind to the target protein and modulate it so that it no longer contributes to the disease.

Description

The Undergraduate Research Assistant will assist Dr. von Klinggraeff (Dr.vK) with administrative tasks and research assignments. Dr.vK’s research focuses on promoting equitable access to environments that foster children’s health and well-being. Her work focuses on the relationship between access to environments like daycare and summer day camp and children’s engagement in healthy behaviors like physical activity and sleep, as well as the longer-term impact on outcomes like weight and cardiovascular health. Undergraduate Research Assistants may do the following: • verifying and analyzing interview transcripts • database searches and tasks related to literature reviews • recruiting participants to research studies • preparing flyers and other research documents • preparing research equipment • communicating with community members and research participants via phone, Zoom, email, and/or google voice Research assistants are expected to meet in-person on a weekly basis with Dr.vK and s

Description

Epilepsy is a neurological disorder identified by the frequent occurrence of seizures in which the patient might lose awareness. The seriousness of this condition is centered on the sudden occurrence of seizure events. Predicting seizures would be a pioneering healthcare solution that would improve the quality of life of epileptic patients. Current machine learning methods have high computational costs and hence high energy consumption which restrict their use in the real-time operation of wearable devices. Spiking neural network (SNN) is an emerging brain-inspired architecture where artificial neurons compute only when separate events are received, leading to an energy-efficient computing method. Current SNN algorithms suffer from some limitations related to input data mapping and the inability to predict new cases with high accuracy. This project aims to develop a novel SNN approach that overcomes these problems to help predict seizures with high accuracy and low power in real-time.

Description

Zebrafish is an ideal tool for direct In-vivo observations of developmental processes. To conduct in-vivo whole organism imaging studies, skin transparency is a primary requirement, necessitating the blocking of pigmentation. Zebrafish casper mutant maintains skin transparency throughout its life, offering the ideal combination of sensitivity and resolution for in-vivo analyses and imaging. Our Laboratory developing a novel transparent transgenic zebrafish model to address basic cardio-oncology and experimental therapeutics. The fli1 promoter in zebrafish has an enhanced expression reporter gene of green fluorescent protein, GFP. This model will allow for in-vivo examination of the vascular system by using fluorescent and confocal microscopy. In this study, we develop a transparent transgenic strain of Caspe/fli1:EGFP and Casper/myl7/annexin-5:YFP and Casper/fli1:EGFP strain through crossbreeding of proposed lines. This proposed study will aid new dimensions in Cardiooncology research

Description

Retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) is the leading cause of blindness in children. There are limited therapeutic options for this severe ocular pathology. Our overall goal is to identify new and more effective therapies for ROP. In particular, we will explore and characterize the potential therapeutic effects of a short-chain fatty acid, butyrate in experimental models of ROP.

Description

Patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE, commonly called lupus), a devastating autoimmune disease that preferentially targets African Americans and women of childbearing age, are at high risk for cardiovascular disease due to accelerated atherosclerosis. The proposed project will define mechanisms of perivascular adipose tissue (PVAT) in the development of lupus-associated vascular disease. In this project, we will use lupus-prone mice to study the immunological and molecular changes of PVAT. In addition, we will isolate preadipocytes and use 3T3-L1 cell line to study the metabolic characteristics in the context of lupus. Furthermore, we will use a model of combined PVAT transplantation and wire injury to investigate the vascular remodeling in lupus.

Description

The consideration of random hypothesis in studying some influencing factors affecting the growth or decline of a tumor is crucial. By analyzing the effects of stress on the volume of tumor growth in a random environment, we develop stochastic models describing the dynamics of the tumor growth based on random adjustments to the population’s intrinsic growth rate, carrying capacity, and tumor treatments. Apart from the models’ ability to capture fluctuations, the availability of a shape parameter in the models gives it the flexibility to describe a variety of population/tumor data with different shapes. The distribution of the stressed population size is derived and used to calculate the minimum amount of chemotherapy needed to cause shrinkage or eradication of a tumor. This work is applied to analyze tumor growth of breast tumors obtained by orthotopically implanting LM2-4LUC+ cells into the right inguinal mammary fat pads of 6 to 8-week-old female Severe Combined Immuno-Deficient mice.

Description

The objective of this project is to determine the rate of ED patients and their visitors having ever learned CPR and if ED patients or their visitors are willing to view a CPR training video during their visits as a refresher or initial training. A secondary objective is to determine if those who watch a short hands only CPR training video are willing to watch a video on how to use an Automatic External Defibrillator (AED). Videos are between 2-3 minutes each fora. total of 5-6 minutes of educational video

Description

After successfully completing an Applied Research course in the French program that focused on reading and analyzing a particularly challenging French text, then critical articles and a book, as well as doing applied research assignments, all designed to teach applicable skills suitable for a future lawyer, the student and professor have been invited to submit an article for consideration at a peer-reviewed journal. This project would be to research and then write and submit that article. The student will work with the faculty member as they produce a joint article

Description

Recent studies have provided substantial genetic evidence linking soluble epoxide hydrolase (sEH) to AD/ADRD. Our prior research has substantiated that inhibiting sEH effectively alleviates cognitive deficits in rat models of AD/ADRD by improving cerebral hemodynamics. To delve deeper into the underlying mechanisms, we employ a multifaceted approach, harnessing cutting-edge techniques. Furthermore, our lab has identified additional potential treatment targets for AD/ADRD grounded in genetic factors and preliminary investigations of vascular and behavioral aspects, which are currently undergoing detailed mechanism studies.

Description

We have Cybersecurity projects on different Internet of Things (IoT) environments and Cyber-physical systems. These projects include but are not limited to, security and privacy issues in smart grids, smart Healthcare systems, and Vehicular networks. The aim of these projects is to address the privacy and security challenges by employing machine learning/AI models while using lightweight applied cryptography to preserve privacy. Cyber Security, Privacy, applied cryptography, IoT, CPS

Description

ORAN is a new technology being tested for 5G networks in the US. It is open, programmable, and virtualized, making it more flexible and cost-effective for operators. However, its open design and integration of AI also pose a significant security and privacy risk as cybercriminals could exploit vulnerabilities to launch attacks and access confidential information. To mitigate such risks, this Project aims to (1) develop a machine learning (ML)-based ORAN monitoring and threat analysis framework that continuously monitors, analyzes, and mitigates security cyber threats, (2) elucidate the impact of adversarial attacks on the ML-based ORAN applications and propose defense strategies against these attacks, and (3) develop cryptographic-based deception techniques to preserve the privacy of sensitive user/RAN data. The network performance, data privacy and security, and overhead of the proposed tasks will be evaluated using real 5G ORAN datasets.

Description

Premature birth is a major public health issue with a growing population of surviving infants. Clinical and laboratory studies demonstrate that environmental factors can benefit recovery from these disabilities, however specific mechanisms that drive the injury progression and repair are not well understood. Research in the Goldstein lab investigates the pathogenesis and repair mechanisms following developmental brain injury. To do this, we will examine brain tissue from mice housed in a low oxygen environment - a model of premature birth. We also will analyze postmortem human brain samples from babies that were born preterm. These studies will inform the quest to develop improved therapeutic options for babies born prematurely.

Description

The unprecedented growth of biopharmaceuticals in recent years has led to better ways of managing chronic diseases in humans including diabetes, immunodeficiencies, and cancer. As the number of approved drug compounds increases, there is a pressing need for lower cost, faster biomanufacturing operations to make these products available and more affordable for growing patient populations. This research project aims to develop numerical approaches to solve the mathematical descriptions needed to simulate these processes. Mathematical models must incorporate new, more complex ion-exchange relationships that define the solid phase adsorption as an implicit function of the liquid phase adsorption, a significant change from the standard explicit mathematical relationships. The goals of this project are to develop, validate, analyze, and use computational tools to inform the design of new, rapid membrane chromatography purification processes for biomanufacturing environments.

Description

Vaccine hesitancy can pose a significant threat to people and leads to loss of herd immunity and the recurrence of COVID-19. The overall goal of this study was to assess the mortality and vaccine hesitancy among hospitalized COVID-19 patients. A retrospective data analysis of COVID-19 patients’ data. A fixed convenience sample of 927 admitted patients aged 18 or above admitted from March 1 to November 30, 2021. Descriptive statistics, bivariate logistic regression, and survival analysis were used.

Description

The overall aim of this study is to utilize Church Health Workers (CHWs) to screen for depression among COVID-19 survivors in a Black church and compare the effectiveness of Screening, Brief Intervention, and Referral to Treatment (SBIRT; Intervention arm) to individuals as Referral As Usual (RAU; Control arm/Usual Care arm) on treatment engagement for depression. Aim 1: To compare the effect of SBIRT (Intervention arm) among COVID-19 survivors to subjects as Referral As Usual (RAU; Usual Care arm) on treatment engagement Aim 2: To assess changes in mental health outcomes at 3- and 6-months post-screening among COVID-19 survivors. Aim 3: To identify contextual factors that act as facilitators or barriers of depression screening and referral among COVID-19 survivors. We hypothesize that Church Health Workers (CHWs) deployed for church-based depression screening can help overcome cognitive barriers and increase treatment engagement among black COVID-19 survivors.

Description

Bicaudal-D (BicD) is a cargo adaptor for the Dynein motor. Mutations in BicD in humans is associated with a type of spinal muscular atrophy, a generative neurological disorder. The goal of this project is to use mammalian cells lines and the Drosophila melanogaster model to determine the molecular defects that contribute to the disease pathology.

Description

The overall goal of my laboratory is to better understand the molecular mechanisms that regulate blood pressure (BP) and renal health and function in males and females under both physiological and pathophysiological conditions. Ongoing projects are examining the role of immune cells in the development of essential hypertension, and increases in blood pressure on a high fat diet. We are also examining the mechanisms that induce renal injury following ischemia., and the long term impact of this on pregnancy.

Description

Students in ART 4261 will explore storytelling through text and images by creating and designing Graphic Novels and Zines to self-publish and distribute through Printed Matter in NYC. This project will require learning, researching, and developing creative strategies needed for narrative and concept development specific to Zines and Graphic Novels. Students will be encouraged to choose a topic based on personal, contemporary social, or political issues. Students must ask questions that engage their audience by identifying issues that intersect in areas of common identity and work towards building consensus rather than division. After completing the small edition Zines and Graphic Novels, students will follow the submission process for Printed Matter in NYC. Printed Matter is one of the largest distributors of self-published material in the world. If the student's work is accepted, they are required to have or make a minimum edition of 100 for distribution.

Description

The goal of this project is to demonstrate the relevance of insulin produced locally in retina to retinal health and function. Our recent published preliminary data confirms the autonomous regulation of insulin in retina. Thus, retinal insulin has its own unique functions that are important to normal retinal metabolism and health. Based on our preliminary findings, we predict endogenous insulin to be an agonist that is secreted steadily to counter the constant metabolic stress that the retina faces. The experimental strategy that we have designed will validate this hypothesis and (1) establish which retinal cell types produce insulin and the significance of that insulin production with respect to retinal health and function. Further, we will (2) define key metabolic pathways influenced by retinal insulin or the lack thereof, using unique genetically engineered conditional knockout mice for key insulin genes, INS1 and INS2.

Description

The focus of this project is to assess the impact of cardiovascular risk factors such as blood pressure variability, hypertension and heart failure on the early onset of cognitive decline and dementia. We use an array of methods including behavioral studies, confocal imaging, live in vivo imaging (two photon microscopy) and molecular and cellular approaches. We investigate how different cells of the neurovascular unit (astrocyte, neurons and vascular cells) communicate, and how these processes are affected in diseased conditions contributing to a decline in neuronal function.

Description

Please note Dr. Hoffman is NOT taking on students for Spring 2024 The Hoffman lab is interested in the biology of aging and understanding the genetic, metabolic, and environmental factors that influence aging across species. There are multiple projects available undergraduate researchers using the fruit fly as a model for discovering interventions to increase lifespan and improve health. Current ongoing studies in the lab include manipulating the amino acids tryptophan and serine, as well as performing dietary restriction studies. There are also opportunities to study evolution and life history trade-offs (longevity and reproduction) in the fly. Undergraduate researchers have the potential to develop their own intervention experiment or work on any of the projects already started in the lab. Please reach out for more information, as well as a more detailed description of the potential projects.

Description

This is a feasibility study - meaning we will use new techniques (also in a new lab space) to ensure everything works as anticipated. If we run into issues, we will troubleshoot and determine the correct course of action. :) Once we have perfected our methods, we will recruit healthy participants and run our feasibility study. Pain-Pressure Threshold (PPT) is when a non-painful stimulus induces nociception (pain) and is measured by a hand-held algometer. Many essential oils (EOs) have pain-reducing properties, but have not been well-studied. Topically-applied EOs may increase PPT, thus, reducing pain perception. PPT will be measured with control, jojoba, and 16 single diluted EOs in healthy adults using a quasi-experimental, within-subjects design. Additionally, we will use digital infrared thermal imaging (DITI) to ascertain EO absorption spread. Study results will support using PPT in future studies using EOs for chronic pain. Funded: Beta Omicron Chapter, STTI & my start-up funding.

Description

Obesity and its associated health comorbidities are a worldwide epidemic with serious economic and health burdens on society. Adipose tissue is a vital endocrine organ that plays a crucial role in developing obesity and various metabolic disorders. White adipocytes store excess energy in the form of triglycerides for future needs. By contrast, brown and beige (browning-in-white) adipocytes metabolize lipids and glucose to produce heat in a process known as nonshivering thermogenesis, which is crucial in systemic energy homeostasis and thermoregulation. We are interested in identifying important players that are crucial in determining adipocyte fates and functions. We further explore how obesity or lipodystrophy leads to metabolic disorders like diabetes, fatty liver diseases, and heart failure. Please refer to https://www.augusta.edu/mcg/phy/faculty/phys_faculty_chen.php.

Description

This research is to be a chapter in an accepted publication about chocolate. We will be looking through pre-Columbian (before 1519) codices (pictorial accordion-style books) of the ancient Mesoamerican world (Central and Southern Mexico & Northern Central America), through colonial documents of the Spanish era in New Spain (Mexico, Central America, & US Southwest), and modern publications about the production, sale and consumption of chocolate. Of particular focus is the shift from Aztec and Maya women making chocolate beverages to the monopoly by the Spanish crown over everything chocolate, to the modern era where most people have no idea who grows, dries, grinds, and produces chocolate for everything from desserts, candy, and beverages or how it moved from its Mexican origins around the world. Help Dr. Chiero with the background research and learn about the process of research to writing submission and you will earn mention in the final publication for your effort.

Description

This study seeks to uncover the historical antecedents to the modern day climate migrants and migrant caravans out of Central America headed to the United States. We will be looking through historical documents from the colonial era through the 20th century related to mining, hydroelectric dam construction, deforestation, pollution, and the displacement of local populations from ancestral lands. Any publications from the research will credit student assistance.

Description

The development of new drug candidates for cancer treatment is a complex and challenging process. However, recent advances in molecular hybridization (MH) and rational drug design (RDD) approaches have provided new opportunities for the creation of more effective and targeted cancer therapies. By combining different molecular structures and optimizing their properties, scientists can create hybrid molecules with enhanced properties and reduced side effects. This approach allows for the creation of drugs that specifically target cancer cells while leaving healthy cells unharmed. Additionally, the RDD approach involves using computer simulations and molecular modeling to predict the effectiveness of potential drug candidates. Overall, the use of MH and RDD approach offers great promise for the development of new cancer therapies. With continued research and development, these approaches may lead to breakthroughs in the fight against cancer.

Description

Trauma-induced injury of the retina and optic nerve is a major cause of vision loss with few effective therapies. We seek to delineate the molecular mechanisms of the injury and identify novel strategies to prevent or reverse the damage and preserve vision. We are studying the role of an enzyme called arginase 1 in this process. We have discovered that arginase 1 deletion worsens the damage, whereas treatment with a stable drug form of arginase 1 limits injury and promotes repair by decreasing inflammation and increasing immune cell repair functions. Pharmaceutical forms of this drug are currently under development as cancer therapy. Thus, the treatment is safe for use in patients and can be readily adapted for treating trauma to the retina or optic nerve. Our current studies are expanding this work to further demonstrate its protective effects in models of traumatic optic nerve injury and glaucoma and elucidate the underlying mechanisms.

Description

A systematic review was started in 2019 and placed on hold in 2020 due to students graduating. In the fall of 2022, a current CURS student picked up this project, and we searched for any relevant publications since 2019. The project is registered in PROSPERO. We have already pared down studies and are preparing to critically appraise those meeting inclusion and exclusion criteria, then, we will synthesize the findings.

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Machine learning, which is part of artificial intelligence, has become an invaluable tool to manipulate, analyze, predict, and reveal trends and associations hidden within big data. In this project students will explore the cross-cutting applications of materials science, magnetism and machine learning applications to predict material properties.

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Extant research indicates transgender people face numerous forms of minority stress resulting in health disparities which forestalls identity development and may contribute to depression and suicidal thoughts. Under the supervision of Dr. Lara Stepleman, Professor of Psychiatry and Health Behavior, undergraduate students are invited to complete an intensive semester spent acquiring hands-on research experience organizing and analyzing previously collected qualitative and quantitative data related to transgender health. Students will also have the opportunity to participate in dissemination efforts of research findings through the preparation and submission of presentation proposals to professional conferences.

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Our lab's primary focus is understanding cancer resistance to DNA damage-inducing therapeutics like irradiation with the ultimate goal of identifying a noble therapeutic target and developing more effective treatment strategies to improve patient survival.

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The aim of this project is to trial the protocol of a park-based physical activity (PA) intervention in adults with serious mental illness (SMI) in a community mental health center's peer support program. Outcomes include feasibility (e.g., attendance), acceptability (enjoyment, satisfaction), and changes in physical activity, fitness, and psychological mechanisms. NCT05457179, R34 MH126043

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This project is assessing ground reaction forces during landing both before and after a lower body workout. It is long known that landing forces lead to both acute and chronic injury in the athletic population, but more information is needed about the influence of external factors on these Landing forces.

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We have various projects to work on. It ranges from Blockchain technology to cryptography. All the projects are in the area of computer security and privacy. Our research aims to implement the ideas that have been shaped using your current skills while learning more about security and privacy.

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This is a survey research project that seeks to understand what type of MSTEM topics AU students want to learn about and how it relates their future career plans and aspirations. For instance, what kind of higher education (e.g., graduate school, medical school, dental school nursing school, etc) do AU undergraduates want to pursue? What type of undergraduate educational experiences (including course work, research experience, mentoring opportunities, networking opportunities, etc) do AU undergrads want to receive? This research project provides an opportunity to learn about state-of-the-art methods of conducting surveys (including in-person and online surveys), and analyzing survey research data.

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Congenital heart disease (CHD) remains the most common birth defect worldwide, affecting ~ 1% of live births, and arises, at least in part, from defects in cardiovascular development. NEDD8 is a novel ubiquitin-like protein that modifies protein targets in a process similar to ubiquitination (termed �neddylation�), and is mediated by NEDD8-specific E1, E2 and E3 enzymes. Though neddylation participates in diverse cellular processes (cell growth, viability, adipogenesis, etc) and pathophysiological events (tumorigenesis, etc.), the importance of neddylation in cardiovascular development remains unknown. In order to study this, we have developed an NAE1 flox/flox mouse, enabling deletion of the only NEDD8 E1 enzyme, and thus inhibition of neddylation, in various tissues. We have several different Cre strains, including aMHC, SM22a, and Nkx2-5, allowing us to study cardiac-specific deletion of NAE1 during different developmental stages in the heart. Preliminary data has shown that aMHC-Cre driven NAE1 deletion leads to perinatal death and defects in ventricular chamber maturation, with a phenotype resembling left ventricular noncompaction, an increasingly recognized primary cardiomyopathy. We will use the many cellular and molecular biology techniques and biochemical assays at our disposal to 1) identify novel signaling pathways regulated by neddylation during cardiac development, and 2) tease apart the underlying mechanisms behind how these pathways contribute to cardiac disease.

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Recovery of the endangered Shoals Spider Lily; The endangered gopher tortoise and its habitat: tracking, monitoring, and management; Effects of pollution on reproductive physiology of fish

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Fish & Wildlife Management/Marine & Wildlife Ecology

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A census of frog populations of aquatic habitats in South Carolina; Aquatic turtle species composition, population evaluation, and environmental toxicology

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The main goal of the project is to identify the mechanisms leading to hypertension in obesity and to determine whether these mechanisms are sex-specific. Experiments will include characterization of the cardiovascular phenotype of mouse models of obesity and collaboration with clinicians working with human patients.

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Role of Hob1 protein in DNA repair and genomic stability; Genetic requirements of microsatellite instability during DNA replication; Investigating of the role of unbalanced dNTP pools on DNA mutations and DNA stability; Genetic diversity of multiple crab species along the Georgia and South Carolina coast.

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Effect of endocrine disruptors on mLTC-1 Leydig cells

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Nutrient Acquisition by bacteria; E. coli as a Biomarker of Human & Animal Fecal Contamination in Streams & Rivers; Bacterial Physiology and Identification, Antibiotic Resistance

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Uses a multilevel approach to investigate forebrain networks involved in encoding and consolidating of memories for emotional events in models of anxiety and impaired cognitive flexibility with special focus on individual differences. The lab has created an animal model of susceptibility for developing Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder. She serves on grant study review sections for NIH, NSF and DOD, and also reviews grants for the VA and the Augusta Biomedical Research Corporation. She is a reviewing editor for Frontiers in Molecular Neuroscience.

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Focuses on the identification and characterization of molecular targets of brain injury after intracerebral hemorrhage, a fatal stroke subtype employing both genetic and pharmacological approaches. Serves on AHA study section.

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Studies the interactions of aging and circadian rhythms in vascular disease. The molecular focus is in identifying the contributions of the transcriptional mechanisms that operate in the inner cell layer of the blood vessel called the endothelium. In addition, there are new areas of research that are unfolding in the lab, which seek to query if and what molecularconnections exist between the aging blood vessel and the aging brain, with potential application to Alzheimer's Disease.

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Our research is centered on identifying genes and genetic processes essential for the generation of neurons during mammalian embryonic development, understanding the the underlying molecular mechanisms, and using these genes and processes for neuroregeneration by promoting the differentiation of neural progenitors into neurons.

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In my lab we look at how cells communicate during the development of the fruit fly (Drosophila melanogaster) as it grows from a single cell to a multicellular animal. We take a synthetic approach, which means we investigate how cells communicate by designing news forms of communication and testing them to see if they work. The investigation is relevant to the fundamental understanding of how animals, including humans, develop and also has potential applications in regenerative medicine, tissue engineering and anti-cancer therapies. Students build skills related to fly genetics, molecular biology, the presentation of their work to a wider audience and scientific problem solving.

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Background and Purpose: Vascular dysfunction and resultant chronic cerebral hypoperfusion leads to vascular cognitive impairment (VCI), the second most common cause of dementia. We reported that Remote Ischemic conditioning (RIC)-therapy improves cerebral blood flow (CBF) in both murine stroke and VCI models. RIC is a non-invasive, simple, inexpensive, and safe use of repetitive inflation of a blood pressure (BP) cuff on the arm or leg to protect distant organs such as the brain from ischemic injury. We have some preliminary data after Bilateral Carotid Artery Stenosis (BCAS) in the mouse (model of VCI) that daily remote ischemic postconditioning (RIPostC) using a BP cuff for 2 weeks increases CBF in a sustained manner, improves cognitive performance, and decreases aggregation of amyloid-beta 42 protein (A?42) in the brain. Our central hypothesis is that RIPostC therapy after BCAS improves cognitive function in animal model of vascular cognitive impairment (VCI).

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There are a selection of projects available in my laboratory. In my laboratory, we study brain function using a variety of methods, including those of cognitive psychology, brain imaging, and computational methods (please see my website, www.hegde.us). I try to do my best to match the project to the aptitudes, interests and the plans of the student. Please consult the aforementioned lab website.

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Overview: Our lab studies mechanisms of muscle loss in a variety of settings including aging, disuse (immobilization), and trauma. We utilize mouse models for this work, and have a large sample of muscle histological sections for analysis. We are interested in identifying new ways to analyze images of these samples, ideally using AI or Machine Learning algorithms. The work will involve capturing microscopic images of these muscle sections and uploading them into image analysis software.

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In this research project we are analyzing economic texts from the 19th and 20th centuries. The goal is to understand how the concept of productivity has evolved over time, specifically whose work and what activities get included and excluded from being defined as economically productive. This is central to understand given that productivity is a key metric we use to define the value and worth of people and their activities. The method we will use to understand this is the historical analysis of economic textbooks and canonical economic texts. We have a body of textbooks from 1890-1960 at the moment, but need to extend that sample backwards earlier into the 1800s and expand it outwards to include not just textbooks but canonical economic texts.

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Cancer of the colorectum (CRC) is one of the most common cancers in the world, representing about 8% of allannually reported cancers. Chemoprevention of CRC development is, therefore, a priority for people at high risk,though no drugs are currently available for this unmet clinical need.This work is aimed at developing PDE5 inhibitors (PDE5i) for colon cancer prevention. Novel PDE5i will showfewer side effects than existing PDE5i by designing their polar structural analogs to affect the gut lining whileminimizing entrance into the bloodstream. Our strategy is to design novel localized PDE5i's that remain in theGI tract to specifically target GI diseases. As proof of principle, we have synthesized and tested 2 novel polaranalogs of sildenafil: malonyl sildenafil and boronyl-sildenafil. Our central hypothesis is to develop and test newgut localized analogs of sildenafil that have been proven to be effective in colon cancer prevention in preclinicalmodels. Our long-term goal is to develop a family of gut-localized, safe, and effective drugs that can be usedfor colon cancer prevention. The objective of this proposal is to develop a library of structurally optimized novelchemical entities and determine their efficacy at inhibiting PDE5i in vitro and in mice. The research approachesused in this project will be implemented in the existing Medicinal Chemistry undergraduate program at AugustaUniversity. This project blends the expertise of medicinal chemistry and biology and their roles in early drugdiscovery. Both the drug design and biological testing reflect the key steps in the pharmaceutical industryworkflow for drug development.

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Role of VEGF-A isoforms in regulating angiogenesis in Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD)

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I am working on several research projects that are under three following research topics:

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Do Compression Garments Influence VO2 during Long-Distance Running?

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We are a Precision Medicine Laboratory which focuses on discovering new precision therapies for head and neck cancer. Head and neck cancer is a very aggressive cancer affecting more than 0.83 million people worldwide annually. Advanced head and neck cancer remains to be incurable, and lacks effective therapy.

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Our laboratory is focused on understanding the regulation of cellular energetics in aging and injury. Multiple different projects are available for motivated undergraduate students interested in gaining hands-on experience in biomedical research. Current research programs are supported by grants from the Department of Defense and the National Institutes of Health. If you are driven, motivated and want to learn more, join our program. Opportunity for co-authorship in publications.

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Over 40 million Americans experience chronic pain. Chronic pain creates an enormous burden on the U.S. economy through lost work and direct healthcare and medication costs totaling 600 billion dollars annually. This burden is compounded when coupled with pain-related co-morbid conditions such as anxiety, depression, and ineffective sleep. Of Americans with chronic pain, over 6.5 million experience pain that is neuropathic in nature. Neuropathic pain has been described as prickling, tingling, burning, and electric shock-like sensations and is difficult to treat. Pharmacological approaches to neuropathic pain are minimally effective and accompanied by adverse effects such as dry mouth, weight gain, and cognitive and sexual dysfunction. Aromatherapy is a novel approach to chronic neuropathic pain. Aromatherapy is the use of essential oils (EOs), extracted from aromatic plants, to support health by eliciting physiological and psychological effects primarily through inhalation and topical-application. EOs moderate many aspects of pain signal transmission including non-competing inhibition of 5-HT, AChE, and Substance P, and antagonism of TRPA1 and TRPV1. Local thermal hyperemia (LTH) is an innovative method of testing local sensory neurons' release of substance P in response to a heat stimulus. In an earlier within-subjects study, a blend of six EOs demonstrated 13% substance P inhibition compared to placebo. The purpose of this study is to determine the effect of select EOs on substance P and nitric oxide during LTH to enhance an intervention for neuropathic pain. Study results will be used to support a NCCIH natural products for pain reduction R-21 grant application.

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Effects of endocrine disruptors on cellular and reproductive physiology. All projects are students led and range from studying the effects of PFOA on breast cancer cells to looking at endocrine disruption in the blue crab. A more recent project involves looking at the effects of polypropylene microparticles on human lung derived cells. Potential techniques learned include cell culture, PCR, Western blotting, ELISAs.

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https://www.augusta.edu/mcg/phy/faculty/phys_faculty_ilatovskaya.php

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Dr. Kumar Vaibhav's lab is dedicated to explore the mechanism behind immune cells activation post-brain injury. They have found that immune cells, especially macrophages, T cells and innate lymphoid cells, can be polarized to pro-inflammatory states after injury, which leads to long-term chronic injury and neurological deficits. The lab further reported that modulation of cannabinoid system helps immensely to maintain the equilibrium between different polarized states of immune cells and thus, expediting the recovery from injury. However, PI emphasizes that there is a lot more to explore related to brain injury and role of cannabinoid system in homeostasis. The lab is funded through several NIH extramural awards and is actively involved in studies related to cannabinoid and non-cannabinoid system in Traumatic brain injury (TBI) and Intracerebral hemorrhages (ICH).

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We are currently exploring a new model for hypertension and performing in vivo studies. These techniques have not been published yet. Relevant topics can be found in pubmed such as https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33101063/,https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33410092/

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Neural and sensory cell regeneration

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The goal is to better understand how neurons transduce external stimuli downstream to discrete spatiotemporal patterns of second messenger signals. Integration of signaling events enables neuronal networks to communicate with high fidelity where anomalies in signal decoding mechanisms can have pathological consequences. To uncover the molecular logic utilized by neurons to interrogate a diversity of signaling events, we will investigate the contributions of key elements in the molecular pathways downstream of neurotransmitter stimulation. This will be achieved through CRISPR/Cas9 gene editing in neurons expressing biosensors that report cellular activity observable through fluorescence microscopy. The project will additionally use lenti- and adeno-associated virus technology to manipulate gene expression as well as molecular cloning approaches.

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Signaling for the treatment and prevention of intestinal disease. My laboratory aims to understand tissue renewal in the colon, and how this can be manipulated to treat ulcerative colitis and for the prevention of colon cancer. We discovered that increasing cGMP levels with phosphodiesterase inhibitors (e.g. Viagra) can protect the colon epithelium and slow it's turnover. This is therapeutic in mouse models of colitis and colon cancer. We work with colon cancer cell lines, human and mouse intestinal organoids, andmice disease models.

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Development of Transgenic Zebrafish Model Organism to study the cardiomyocyte and Microglia Function in health and disease condition with special reference to the Inflammatory process (NFkB) and Apoptosis (Annexin-V) in Brain Tumor and Heart disease. EGFR/sEGFR-Breast Cancer Research, Role of soluble isoforms (extracellular domains) of EGFR Family members in targeted therapeutics and establishment of sEGFR as Biomarker in Cancer Research. In-vivo automated HTS Drug Discovery by using Zebrafish model in Diabetes beta-cell neogenesis and proliferation, Creation of acute hypoxia in the zebrafish model and its impact on Cardiovascular Biology.

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My research is focused on miRNA-mediated mechanisms during CNS development and after spinal cord injury (SCI). In addition, I combine the in vivo reprogramming technology with miRNA biology to induce miRNA-mediated neuronal reprogramming from endogenous reactive glial cells for SCI functional repair. Approaches include animal work, cell culture, molecular cloning, etc.

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Study involves microfluidics: selected sstudents will be looking at drop sizes, generation frequency, etc.

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We present a mathematical model describing the transmission of certain diseases with multiple strains and explore the effects of vaccination and treatments on such diseases. The effects of external fluctuations caused by factors like the rates at which testing of such disease is done, vaccination rates, variability in the number of contacts between infected and susceptible individuals, mask use per capita, social behavior, public health intervention, and so on, is also investigated. The probability distribution of the number of infections at a given point in time is also obtained.

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Area of research: Mathematical Biology

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EV characterization and toolbox development

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Our lab focuses on identifying the fundamental roles of local astrocyte-neuron interaction and long-range brain circuits in alcohol/substance use disorder and its comorbidities. We are characterizing how the physiological and pathophysiological brain activities that integrate positive and negative stimuli shape behavioral outcomes during the transition from substance use to dependence. To expand our understanding of the cell type-, circuit-, context-, and age-dependent neuropharmacological basis in a variety of related pathologies, our research applies multi-layered combination of biochemical, electrophysiological, and behavioral assays with new approaches such as a real-time behavior-synchronized brain recording and computational analysis. Thus, there will be lots of opportunities of hands-on experience in neuropharmacological techniques and co-authorship in publications.

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Investigates role of cholinergic systems in memory function, and how it is altered by diseases like schizophrenia and Alzheimer's Disease as well as toxins that are found in the environment such as organophosphate insecticides. He serves on NIH and DOD Study sections and is the current Secretary of the Association of Medical School Pharmacology Chairs (AMSPC).

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We employ a multidisciplinary approach toward neuroscience by using biochemical tools, in vitro whole-cell patch-clamp recordings (soma vs. dendrite), in vitro cell-attached recordings (soma vs dendrite), in vivo drug or viral mediated-gene delivery, and behavior to validate the physiological relevance of the findings.

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https://www.augusta.edu/faculty/directory/view.php?id=DJEHU

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In today's world it is becoming more and more important to understand the foundation of human life. Human molecular evolution is now the subject of copious amounts of research about how our species has evolved. Differences in gene and protein expression can be subtle yet extremely impactful. Advancements in genomics clearly reveal how differences in gene expression impact human health and physiology. As technology continues to improve, it becomes possible to gain a more accurate picture of what each gene contributes to the human body. Principles of Human Anatomy & Physiology �I & II are required courses for students who like to pursue their career in the health related field (e.g. � Pre-Med, Physician Assistant, Nursing, Physical Therapy, Nuclear Imaging, etc). Traditionally it has been observed that majority of the students taking these courses struggle due to the complexity of the human body. Primary purpose of my pedagogical research is to develop and provide students with active learning modules and/or resources for their better understanding of the concepts associated with anatomy and physiology.

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CrossFit has become a phenomenon of exercise modality in the past decade. It has also been a controversial mode of exercise since it gained popularity in the early 2000s and has seen itself in the light of critics on more than one occasion. The CrossFit philosophy is comprised of what researchers consider embracing individuality, �buying into� the CrossFit culture, and a singular commonality. This project will focus on the last of the three: the singular commonality. Researchers have deemed this term to reflect a willingness to adopt the CrossFit lifestyle in order to improve themselves (Belger, 2012; Dawson, 2017; Herz, 2014; Murphy 2012). One could argue that within this community, by being surrounded by like-minded individuals, a sense of inclusion, belonging, and connectedness to CrossFit is established. However, over recent years, CrossFit has found itself in the spotlight for instances that call into question the inclusive nature it preaches. This project is meant to explore the sense of belonging BIPOC and marginalized identities have within their CrossFit space. This project is a mixed method study examining a sense of belonging through quantitative measures (Sense of Belonging Instrument, Hagerty & Patusky, 1995) and exploring the emotions behind the numbers, giving life to the narratives of those who remain committed to CrossFit through interviews. This project will become a significant hub of data that will allow for further exploration of the acceptance of these gym members within the CrossFit community and how the CrossFit community can expand its support for marginalized communities.

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Natural products (NPs), secondary metabolites biosynthesized by microorganisms and plants, are a very important source of drugs and drug leads. Infectious diseases, atuoimmune diseases, and other ailments have been treated by these molecules throughout human history. In ancient times, crude drugs that are dried and/or ground organism matters were used to treat these diseases. The clinical use of NPs was greatly intensified by the discovery and isolation of the first pure antibiotic penicillin in 1928. NP drugs generally have high selectivity (less adverse effects) thanks to their complex chemical structures. In the past 40 years, more than 60% of U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved small molecule drugs have been NP related. However, a new threat has been appearing in recent years. According to the World Health Organization, infections by antibiotic-resistant pathogens are increasing globally and are anticipated as one of the greatest threats to human health in the future. Therefore, new drug candidates for use in clinics are in high demand. This project aims to characterize a biochemical process called homologation of amino acids. Homologation is a reaction that adds one carbon on the amino acid side chain, which results in production of an uncommon amino acid that has one-carbon longer side chain. Homologated amino acids are produced by the enzymatic pathway that involves five enzymes, and the resulting compounds are used to produce biologically active NPs with higher selectivity and/or stability. By understanding the pathway and engineering it to apply to production of other NPs, it will be possible to produce new NPs with enhanced bioactivity, bioavailability, and biostability.

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https://www.augusta.edu/faculty/directory/view.php?id=AVAZDARJANOVA

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https://www.augusta.edu/scimath/chemistryandphysics/siva-panda.php