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Effects of Garlic Extract Released from Calcium Phosphate Scaffolds for Bone Tissue Engineering Applications

Effects of Garlic Extract Released from Calcium Phosphate Scaffolds for Bone Tissue Engineering Applications

Primary Author: Ashley Vu

Faculty Sponsor: Susmita Bose

 

Primary College/Unit: Voiland College of Engineering and Architecture

Category: Medical and Life Sciences

Campus: Pullman

 

Abstract:

 

PRINCIPAL TOPIC

Bone is a constantly remodeling tissue comprised of osteoblast cells which form bone and osteoclast cells which remove old bone through resorption. Garlic is historically known for the prevention and treatment of diseases however knowledge is limited regarding bone health. Animal studies have shown garlic minimizes bone loss through increasing estrogen levels and reducing osteoclast bone resorption. Excessive bone loss can cause porous, brittle bones, commonly known as osteoporosis, which lead to high fracture risks. Utilizing natural alternatives to synthetic medicines can reduce physiological rejection while maintaining relief to ailments and diseases.

 

METHOD

One of the most well-known sulfur compounds extracted from garlic is allicin. The objective is to understand the effects of allicin release on the bone remodeling process. The hypothesis is allicin will show no cytotoxic effects to osteoblast cells and reduce osteoclast resorption. Allicin was extracted from pure garlic powder and loaded onto calcium phosphate scaffolds, mimicking bone tissue composition. Cellular and scaffold surface morphology were imaged post cell culture as well histological staining of an in vivo rat distal femur model.

 

RESULTS/IMPLICATIONS

Results show allicin has no cytotoxic effects on osteoblast morphology and a reduction of osteoclast resorption pit formation. Allicin also shows significantly enhanced collagen formation in vivo, indicating another avenue for improved bone healing. With these results, further knowledge is gained on the ability for garlic to improve bone health in bone tissue engineering applications.

 

Cooling Rates of Spatter Deposits

Cooling Rates of Spatter Deposits

Primary Author: Claire Puleio

Faculty Sponsor: Catherine Cooper

 

Primary College/Unit: Agricultural, Human and Natural Resource Sciences

Category: Agricultural and Natural Resource Sciences

Campus: Pullman

 

Abstract:

 

Principal Topic

Magmatic spatter deposits form during volcanic eruptions wherein molten lava is projected from the volcano. The molten lava is erupted in fragments (clasts) and is deposited in the area immediately surrounding the eruptive vent of the volcano. These clasts can pile upon each other and form cone-like structures. Magmatic spatter occurs when erupted lava is hot enough to deform and adhere to other erupted clasts (agglutinate). The deformation and agglutination of spatter clasts have important implications regarding how spatter can transition from a stable deposit to a lava flow. When spatter re-melts and flows it can cause sudden collapse of the cone-like structures and quickly damage infrastructure or cause bodily harm to those in the path of the flow.

 

Method

A two-dimensional thermal diffusion model has been created in this study to predict how long it takes for spatter clasts to cool sufficiently enough that they no longer pose the risk of re-melting and forming a lava flow. This model predicts how spatter clasts cool over time when subjected to conduction, convection, and radiation and is applied to scenarios in which multiple spatter clasts of the same temperature are placed on top of one another.

 

Results/Implications

The model described in this research provides an indication for when the spatter deposit will cool sufficiently enough to stabilize. This research increases the understanding of magmatic spatter as well as the likelihood for associated volcanic hazards such as sudden collapse of spatter deposits and the rapid formation of lava flows.

 

A better screening tool to help combat a common pest of wheat

A better screening tool to help combat a common pest of wheat

Primary Author: Samuel Prather

Faculty Sponsor: Michael Pumphrey

 

Primary College/Unit: Agricultural, Human and Natural Resource Sciences

Category: Agricultural and Natural Resource Sciences

Campus: Pullman

 

Abstract:

 

Principle topic:

Hessian Fly [Mayetiola destructor (Say)] is a major pest of wheat in Washington as well as the entire USA. In its larval stage, Hessian fly feeds off the stems of wheat plants causing severe yield loss. While there are pesticides and management practices to combat Hessian fly, because of Hessian fly’s unique life cycle most are not effective. The best way to combat Hessian fly is through use of genetically resistant wheat varieties with one of the 35 known Hessian fly resistance genes. The impediment for breeders developing Hessian fly resistance varieties is a fast-cost-effective way to screen for the resistance, as the current method takes a long time and is very expensive.

Method:

Using a genetics technique known as linkage mapping my project’s goal was to find the genetic location of one of the 35 known genes that has been shown to work in Washington. And then create genetic markers which are an assay to test for that gene.

Results:

After leaning the location of our Hessian fly resistance gene of interest I created 3 genetic markers and validated them on a large panel of varieties. The results show these markers to be highly (>98%) accurate at detecting the presence of the gene. The old method of testing for this gene used by our lab cost ~$150 per test and took about 2 months. This new method using the genetic marker assay takes less than a week and cost ~$1 per test.

 

Effects of Videocases on Teacher Learning and Classroom Practice: A Meta-Analysis

Effects of Videocases on Teacher Learning and Classroom Practice: A Meta-Analysis

Primary Author: Samuel Aina

Faculty Sponsor: Olusola Adesope

 

Primary College/Unit: College of Education

Category: Arts and Education Sciences

Campus: Pullman

 

Abstract:

Teachers need opportunity to learn and grow professionally to be effective and help students learn. Studies have shown that videocase analysis, the process of having teachers record, watch and analyze their own teaching, is a powerful approach to developing teacher quality This approach fosters teachers’ critical thinking, self-reflection, professional vision and practice, with the goal of improving learning opportunities for students. Many studies have reported positive research findings that support videocase analysis as an effective teacher development tool. However little is known about how contextual factors affect the effectiveness of videocases. Do teachers learn better when they watch their own video or a professionally shot video of other teachers? Should they watch their video alone or with other colleagues? How do these and other contextual factors help teachers learn better from videocases? This meta-analysis examined the aggregate effects of videocases on teachers’ learning and practice. Results from 27 studies included in the meta-analysis showed that videocases are more beneficial for teacher learning and practice than other comparison conditions (g = 0.65, p <.001). Findings show how the mean effect sizes were moderated by contextual variables such as video source, video recording type, participant characteristics, study setting and methodological features of the studies. The study concludes with the implications of the meta-analysis for scientific inquiry, classroom practice and education policy.

 

Safe by comparison: Unintended Consequences of the Effects of Comparison Between Alternative Tobacco Products.

Safe by comparison: Unintended Consequences of the Effects of Comparison Between Alternative Tobacco Products.

Primary Author: Kamal Ahmmad

Faculty Sponsor: Elizabeth Howlett

 

Primary College/Unit: Carson College of Business

Category: Business, Communication, and Politial Sciences

Campus: Pullman

 

Abstract:

Principle topic: Graphic Health Warnings (GHWs) on cigarette packages are used to discourage smoking. However, the use of GHWs on cigarette packages may have unintended negative consequences. We examined how GHWs on cigarette packages can bias consumers’ evaluation of e-cigarettes. Negative emotions such as fear, guilt, and disgust generated by warnings and disclosures on cigarette packages lead to changes in cognitions, judgments, and behaviors (Andrews et al 2014, Netemeyer et al 2016). Similarity and preference judgment literature also posit that consumers’ engage in comparison processes when they asses product similarity (Simonson & Tversky 1992. Hagius & Mason 1993). Since cigarettes and e-cigarettes are two similar product and most smokers switch to e-cigarettes as a means to quit smoking, counter-marketing of cigarettes with GHWs would influence the evaluation of e-cigarettes.

Method: We conducted two online studies and one lab study to examine the mechanism through which GHWs influence e-cigarette-related consumer responses. In addition to testing behavioral intention related to e-cigarettes, we also tested consumers’ information seeking behavior in response to GHWs on cigarette pack.

Results and Implications: Results from three studies show that GHWs on cigarette packages increase cigarette related fear and decrease e-cigarette related fear. The elicited fear influences attitudes and health hazard beliefs related to e-cigarettes. We also find that GHWs on cigarettes increase the information seeking behavior related to e-cigarettes. The results have significant policy implications which show that counter-marketing efforts of one harmful products have unintended negative consequences by increasing the preference for another potentially harmful product.

 

Enhancing Mass Transfer of Nutraceuticals to Inflamed Cartilage Cells through Perfusion

Enhancing Mass Transfer of Nutraceuticals to Inflamed Cartilage Cells through Perfusion

Primary Author: Haneen Abusharkh

Faculty Sponsor: Bernard Van Wie

 

Primary College/Unit: Voiland College of Engineering and Architecture

Category: Engineering and Environmental Science

Campus: Pullman

 

Abstract:

Articular cartilage is a connective tissue that lacks blood vessels or sensory neurons. The lack of vascularity presents cartilage with diffusion-limited nutrient and oxygen supply and minimal intrinsic ability to regenerate after injury, leading to Osteoarthritis (OA). The aneural nature of cartilage makes injury difficult to diagnose due to lack of pain and therefore OA intervention has a tendency to be delayed. OA is the most common joint disease in the U.S. and was traditionally defined solely as the degradation of cartilage and was not considered an inflammatory disease. However, several recent studies have proven the presence of inflammatory markers, including interleukins, in the serum of OA joints. These findings have transformed how researches define and develop treatments for OA.

Nutraceuticals are food components that have medicinal benefits in addition to their nutritional value. They reduce inflammation by blocking the expression of interleukin-1 and scavenge reactive oxygen species (ROS) and free radicals by their anti-oxidative characteristics.

In this study, inflammation was induced in bovine cartilage cells by the addition of interleukin-1β. Then, cells were cultured in two groups, a static micromass, and a perfusion bioreactor group. Both groups were supplied with a nutraceutical containing growth medium. We hypothesized that perfusion enhances the mass transfer of nutraceuticals to the grown cartilage tissue and reverses the inflammatory symptoms. Our results suggest that inflammation was reduced in the bioreactor samples, reflected by higher production of proteins indicative of healthy cartilage, collagen, and glycosaminoglycan, by more than 16-fold in comparison to static micromass cultures.

 

“I Feel Proud Because I Made Them Stop Fighting”: How Do Adolescent Friendships Create and Constrain Masculinities?

“I Feel Proud Because I Made Them Stop Fighting”: How Do Adolescent Friendships Create and Constrain Masculinities?

Primary author: Emma McMain
Faculty sponsor: Zoe Higheagle Strong

Primary college/unit: College of Education
Campus: Pullman

Abstract:

The notion of “boyhood in crisis” circulates through educational spaces, perpetuating the ideas that boys are physically aggressive, “emotionally illiterate,” and lack intimate friendships. To complicate and challenge this crisis model, there is a need for more research that explores masculinities as complex, relational, and performative. This study, framed by feminist poststructural theory, considers how adolescent boys shape one another’s masculinities when discouraging physical fights. Critical discourse analysis techniques were applied to four interviews to highlight the “discourses” (repeated and dynamic patterns of words, thoughts, images, and actions, such as a discourse of men as instinctive fighters) that create and are created by performances of masculinity. I also considered the discourses that did not appear from these boys’ stories but could work as points of resistance to dominant forms of masculinity that uphold a binary of “reason” over “emotion” and individual “choice” over more collectivist beliefs.

This project complicates what counts as “progress” in studies of peer aggression: masculinities constrained the range of ways in which boys could resist fights, yet friendship emerged as an important shaper of identity. This research calls for moving beyond a discourse of “good choices” (which puts the responsibility of ceasing violence on boys alone) to explore how adolescents are simultaneously agentic and constrained by their social worlds.

Studies on fruit and hard cider chemistry from Eastern WA grown English fruit

Studies on fruit and hard cider chemistry from Eastern WA grown English fruit

Primary author: D. Scott Mattinson

Primary college/unit: Agricultural, Human and Natural Resource Sciences
Campus: Pullman

Abstract:

Studies are underway at WSU-Pullman in the postharvest laboratory aimed at unveiling a first analysis of Eastern Washington cider apple fruit chemistry as a means for hard cider makers. The hard cider industry in the USA and WA state steadily increases, as much as 40% since 2008 (Galinato et al., 2016). Apples under study include a desert variety known for its tartness, ‘Improved Red McIntosh’, and 3 English varieties, ‘Dabinette’, ‘Golden Russet’, and ‘Major’. Each of the English varieties are known as high tannin containing fruit. The study revealed that ‘IRM’ had high %TA at 0.62 with low brix, whereas the English apples were 0.248:14.5 for ‘Dabinette’, 0.521:15.0 for ‘Major’, and 0.97:17.9 for ‘Golden Russet’. Blends of ‘NRM’ to English juice, each at 1:1 reveled that the hard ciders blended with more ‘sharp’ chemistry, the highest %TA was ‘IRM’:’Golden Russet’ at 0.89% TA. This cider also had the higher brix at 7.6.
Tannin levels for each juice and each blended cider were analyzed by the Porter assay (Porter et al., 1986). Tannin data revealed that English cider apples grown in Eastern WA due in fact have higher tannin levels than desert varieties, up to 0.139% in ‘Major’, 0.059% in ‘Golden Russet’, and 0.039% in ‘Dabinette’; ‘NRM’ at 0.016%. Tannin carried into the fermented cider, as ‘NRM’ blended with ‘Dabinette’ was highest at 0.045%.

Impact identification on concrete panels using a surface-bonded smart piezoelectric module (SPM) system

Impact identification on concrete panels using a surface-bonded smart piezoelectric module (SPM) system

Primary author: Ayumi Manawadu
Faculty sponsor: Pizhong Qiao

Primary college/unit: Voiland College of Engineering and Architecture
Campus: Pullman

Abstract:

Structural damage assessment after a truck/barge collision is crucial to preserve the integrity of aging concrete bridges, even if there is no apparent damage on the surface. However, given the size of bridges, it would be expensive to analyze the whole structure at once. Therefore, the location and magnitude of the impact should be determined promptly to identify critical areas that require further damage assessment. Such systems help to determine timely corrective action to avoid catastrophic failure. Nevertheless, there is no in-situ cost-effective monitoring technique to carry out this task. Thus, wave-based piezoelectric sensor systems are a promising alternative for real-time impact detection of concrete structures.

Surface-bonded smart piezoelectric modules (SPM) are used to investigate the impact response on concrete panels regarding impact location, impact force, projectile mass, and projectile velocity. Theoretical models based on a spring-mass system and Reed’s model are developed and then validated using numerical and experimental investigations. The main parameters used in this approach are the time of flight and the amplitude of the propagating waves.

The method successfully determined the impact location and magnitude of impact, with an error of 6.40% and 2.73%, respectively. Further, the mass and velocity of the projectile were also successfully computed. Such an evaluation helps to prioritize impact events and to recognize more effective repair techniques. The results demonstrate that the surface-bonded SPMs provide a basis for the development of a cost-effective in-situ real-time non-destructive technique to analyze the impact-response of concrete members.

Grain Elevators & Railroads: The Building of the Frontier

Grain Elevators & Railroads: The Building of the Frontier

Primary author: Elisha Madison
Co-author(s): David Bolingbroke
Faculty sponsor: Dr. Jeff Sanders

Primary college/unit: Arts and Sciences
Campus: Pullman

Abstract:

Grain is a foundational resource for the world, in this past year alone, 2,121 million metric tons of grain were produced and used. Whitman County is one of the top producers . . . To produce this amount of grain, grain elevators and silos are vital in storing and sorting. But these elevators are bereft without the trains to transport the grain to various states, or ports to be shipped around the globe. The local economy and settlement patterns were shaped in part by the rapid growth of the railroads from 1860 to 1897, which changed the landscape of the western frontier. This rapid industrial progression would eventually fail as the railroad dissipated.

This mapping project, focusing solely in Washington, specific in Whitman County, pinpoints the areas historical grain silos, flour mills, and railroads, in order to present a microhistory on how these sites became central to nation building, as towns were developed to meet the needs of a grain heavy economy. Using ArcGIS and photographs from the Dillman Collection, this project explores change over time through the mapping of original flat houses, to grain elevators/silos created in 1842, to their evolution; we see how people settled as they moved across the United States, and how the railroad and agriculture are tied irrevocably together.

Each signifier on the map, provides locations and history of these sites, allowing this to be an interactive map for everyone to increase understandings of the Pacific Northwest’s journey from frontier to advanced metropolis.