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- Title
- Correlation between size and home range of Agama agama africana.
- Abstract/Description
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Agama agama africana is a lizard originally found in sub-Saharan Africa. Typically, it is found in urban and suburban areas and certain wildlands of Africa. This lizard was first noted in 1983 in Florida by L. D. William and L. Portis. It is believed that the Florida populations of these lizards are a result of intentional release and from damage done to exotic reptile businesses during Hurricane Andrew. Other researchers have documented that this species of lizard has a territory range that...
Show moreAgama agama africana is a lizard originally found in sub-Saharan Africa. Typically, it is found in urban and suburban areas and certain wildlands of Africa. This lizard was first noted in 1983 in Florida by L. D. William and L. Portis. It is believed that the Florida populations of these lizards are a result of intentional release and from damage done to exotic reptile businesses during Hurricane Andrew. Other researchers have documented that this species of lizard has a territory range that it aggressively defends against when other males challenge the territory. The behavior of the lizard was the focus for this study. Data was collected in areas throughout Jensen Beach and Stuart, Florida where populations are prevalent. Five males of A. a. africana were caught, marked with nail polished, and measured. Once released, three of these males and one uncaught male were observed from a distance while their movement and activity were recorded. Measurements were then taken of the lizards’ movement and the total area was calculated using an online irregular polygon calculator. Due to the small sample size, the results were inconclusive for a relationship between lizard size and home range area.
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- irsc_s_b_p0005
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- Document (PDF)
- Title
- Trans Fats and Metabolic Syndrome.
- Abstract/Description
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Two issues affecting health today are metabolic syndrome and trans fats. Metabolic syndrome is a common condition that has no single known cause. Trans fats are fatty acids that can be artificially made and added to food, or can naturally occur in ruminant-derived foods. There has been speculation that metabolic syndrome and trans fats are correlated. Studies indicate both positive and negative correlations between metabolic syndrome and the consumption of trans fats.
- Identifier
- irsc_s_b_p0011
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- Title
- Impact of Apolipoprotein E Epsilon 4 in Brain Injuries of Boxers.
- Abstract/Description
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Through research done on causes of late-onset Alzheimer’s disease (AD), a link has been made between the amyloid-beta protein and the APOE ε4 allele. Not only do they play a major role in leading to AD, they also result in an increased risk of brain injury. Looking at studies done on patients with traumatic brain injuries, with an emphasis on injuries received while boxing, the possibility exists that having the APOE ε4 allele can lead to being more at risk for having a traumatic brain injury...
Show moreThrough research done on causes of late-onset Alzheimer’s disease (AD), a link has been made between the amyloid-beta protein and the APOE ε4 allele. Not only do they play a major role in leading to AD, they also result in an increased risk of brain injury. Looking at studies done on patients with traumatic brain injuries, with an emphasis on injuries received while boxing, the possibility exists that having the APOE ε4 allele can lead to being more at risk for having a traumatic brain injury than non-carriers. Currently, there is no screening for the APOE ε4 allele in prospective athletes. The topic of potential screening should be further discussed as well as additional research done to be better equipped for educating the public on possible risks.
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- irsc_s_b_p0004
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- Title
- Burn Wound Covers, Pretreatments, and Immunological and Microbial Concerns.
- Abstract/Description
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Surgeons can compare three pre-graft methods for treating burn wounds. When using the split-thickness skin graft procedure, many different wound bed covers can be used. The lack of available donor sites can delay skin grafting. During this time, priming the wound bed is the best chance a patient has for full healing. An excised wound bed, an artificial dermal template, and a granulation tissue induced by cellulose sponge are all methods to prepare the wound for a split-thickness skin graft....
Show moreSurgeons can compare three pre-graft methods for treating burn wounds. When using the split-thickness skin graft procedure, many different wound bed covers can be used. The lack of available donor sites can delay skin grafting. During this time, priming the wound bed is the best chance a patient has for full healing. An excised wound bed, an artificial dermal template, and a granulation tissue induced by cellulose sponge are all methods to prepare the wound for a split-thickness skin graft. All three wound bed covers are easy to apply and can be placed on bones and deep wounds, often without pain. Achieving reduced scar formation begins with a well-primed wound bed that can significantly improve the outcome of skin replacement.
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- irsc_s_b_p0400
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- Title
- Structural Evaluation of the Optic Nerve Head.
- Abstract/Description
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Precise morphological evaluation of the optic nerve head is essential to accurately diagnose glaucoma, especially in diverse patient populations. Interpretation of the physical structure of the optic nerve head includes optic disc size, cup to disc ratio, vertical disc diameter and retinal nerve fiber layer thickness. I hypothesize that there are subtle differences in the optic nerve head appearance based on age, gender, race and refractive error that can predict an increased likelihood of...
Show morePrecise morphological evaluation of the optic nerve head is essential to accurately diagnose glaucoma, especially in diverse patient populations. Interpretation of the physical structure of the optic nerve head includes optic disc size, cup to disc ratio, vertical disc diameter and retinal nerve fiber layer thickness. I hypothesize that there are subtle differences in the optic nerve head appearance based on age, gender, race and refractive error that can predict an increased likelihood of glaucoma development and degree of irreversible vision loss. Detailed measurements of the optic nerve head were taken using advanced imaging technology called an optical coherence tomography (OCT). Data were analyzed using regression analysis to determine potential correlations between the impact of the physical characteristics of the optic nerve with the development of glaucoma. Individual variables were compared using ANOVA. On average, subjects with high myopia included in the study were shown to have larger disc areas than those with mild to moderate myopia and have an increased risk of developing glaucoma. In addition, patients with a positive family history of glaucoma are more likely to develop advanced versions of the disease.
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- irsc_s_b_p0008b
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- Document (PDF)
- Title
- Accuracy of 3D printed Models vs Traditional Stone Models.
- Abstract/Description
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3D models are an essential device used in various fields of dentistry. Dental models are used for the fabrication of crowns, dentures, orthodontic treatments, and surgical equipment. Traditionally, 3D models are created from gypsum stone. However, 3D printed resin may provide a higher degree of precision and ease of sharing between professionals. Multiple studies have confirmed the accuracy of the Trios 3Shape 3D scanner, but few studies provide information on the reliability of 3D printers....
Show more3D models are an essential device used in various fields of dentistry. Dental models are used for the fabrication of crowns, dentures, orthodontic treatments, and surgical equipment. Traditionally, 3D models are created from gypsum stone. However, 3D printed resin may provide a higher degree of precision and ease of sharing between professionals. Multiple studies have confirmed the accuracy of the Trios 3Shape 3D scanner, but few studies provide information on the reliability of 3D printers. The purpose of this study is to determine the dimensional accuracy of 3D printed models for future application in dental and orthodontic treatments. Four anonymous participants received an alginate impression and 3D dental scans on the upper and lower dental arches for a resulting sample size of n=4. Prints were made from a Form Labs Form 2 3D printer and an Anycubic Photon 3D printer. These prints, as well as the gypsum model resulting from the alginate impression, were designated specific dental markers in which measurements were taken. Graphs of width and height were constructed after data analysis on Excel. There were no statistically different measurements between models of the same patient. Expected statistical differences were seen between patients, due to being different samples, which helped to validate the width and height measurements as statistically sound. This indicates that the measurements taken from stone models are as accurate as the 3D printed models. 3D printed models would be beneficial for cost reduction for orthodontic treatment and provide immediate surgical guides or dental study models.
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- irsc_s_b_p0009
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- Title
- Does Obesity Contribute to Poor Eyelid Laxity?.
- Abstract/Description
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Eyelid laxity is a clinical term, which refers to the lower and/or upper eyelids containing less elastin and collagen than normal, thus appearing loose and droopy. This condition causes irritation, excessive tearing, and redness that may contribute to dry eye syndrome. Many factors are believed to cause eyelid laxity, such as smoking and excessive sun exposure. A study was conducted to see whether a high body mass index (BMI) was a factor in eyelid laxity. This study focused on subjects’ age...
Show moreEyelid laxity is a clinical term, which refers to the lower and/or upper eyelids containing less elastin and collagen than normal, thus appearing loose and droopy. This condition causes irritation, excessive tearing, and redness that may contribute to dry eye syndrome. Many factors are believed to cause eyelid laxity, such as smoking and excessive sun exposure. A study was conducted to see whether a high body mass index (BMI) was a factor in eyelid laxity. This study focused on subjects’ age ranging between 20-85 years old. Each subject lacked visible facial nerve palsy and eyelid trauma that can influence accurate laxity measurements. It was unknown if patients had previous eyelid surgery, which may also affect measurements due to laxity correction. Upon acquiring consent, a Blephometer was prepared for taking eyelid measurements. Fluress was instilled in the patients’ eyes to temporarily numb them, and eyelid measurements were observed and recorded. Preliminary data indicated that eyelid laxity measurements of patients with a higher BMI were significantly worse than patients with a healthy BMI.
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- irsc_s_b_p0010
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- Title
- Does Sleeping Position Negatively Affect Eyelid Laxity?.
- Abstract/Description
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Eyelid laxity is a condition where the eyelid connective tissue loses elasticity, which leads to malposition of the lids and ocular surface discomfort. An increase in eyelid laxity can occur with age and environmental factors. Patients were selected randomly from a general optometric practice with an age range of 20-85 years. Exclusion criteria included facial nerve palsy and a history of eyelid surgery or trauma. Patients were asked about their sleeping position, smoking history, UV exposure...
Show moreEyelid laxity is a condition where the eyelid connective tissue loses elasticity, which leads to malposition of the lids and ocular surface discomfort. An increase in eyelid laxity can occur with age and environmental factors. Patients were selected randomly from a general optometric practice with an age range of 20-85 years. Exclusion criteria included facial nerve palsy and a history of eyelid surgery or trauma. Patients were asked about their sleeping position, smoking history, UV exposure regarding occupation/hobby, and skin type was graded according to the Fitzpatrick Skin Type Scale. Patients’ eyelids and equipment were cleaned and prepared for eyelid laxity measurements. A Blephometer was used to measure the distance of the lower eyelid from the globe using a small color scale that represented two-millimeter (mm) increments. Eyelid laxity was graded according to a customary scale; grade 1: 0 - 1.9 mm; grade 2: 2.0 - 3.9 mm; grade 3: 4 - 9 mm; and grade 4: > 9mm. In addition, patient sleeping side and other demographics were examined to find a correlation of increased eyelid laxity. Patients display a link between the side on which they usually sleep and the laxity of their lower eyelid.
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- irsc_s_b_p0007
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- Title
- Culturing phytoplankton.
- Abstract/Description
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The Smithsonian Marine Ecosystems Exhibit’s mission is, “To inspire appreciation and understanding of the importance and complexity of marine ecosystems and the process of science through engaging exhibits, meaningful education, and the dissemination of Smithsonian Marine Station research.” Starting from the bottom of the food web, the exhibit recreates habitats for their resident organisms. Healthy phytoplankton cultures feed the oysters’ and their reefs’ filter feeding inhabitants like...
Show moreThe Smithsonian Marine Ecosystems Exhibit’s mission is, “To inspire appreciation and understanding of the importance and complexity of marine ecosystems and the process of science through engaging exhibits, meaningful education, and the dissemination of Smithsonian Marine Station research.” Starting from the bottom of the food web, the exhibit recreates habitats for their resident organisms. Healthy phytoplankton cultures feed the oysters’ and their reefs’ filter feeding inhabitants like feather duster worms, sponges, and tunicates. Phytoplankton also plays a key role in maintaining water quality by consuming nitrates and phosphorous. This project focused on and tested different light sources in order to maximize phytoplankton production. Successful maintenance of Isochrysis galbana made it possible to replicate and thoroughly test phytoplankton production in relation to the light spectrum. Nannochloropsis oculata and Chaetocerous gracilis were unsustainable and must be further assessed for harmful cellular organisms specific to these species, contamination, and other variables that may be attributing to cell culture crashing.
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- irsc_s_b_p0006
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- Document (PDF)
