Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder that affects behavior, memory, and overall health and well-being. Although it is the sixth leading cause of death in the United States among people aged 65 and older, there is currently no cure or effective preventive treatment. Multiple risk factors contribute to the development of AD, including aging, genetics, chronic stress, and diet. Increasing evidence suggests that diet is a major modifiable factor influencing disease risk through mechanisms involving systemic inflammation and oxidative stress. Diets high in saturated fats, refined carbs, and sugars typical of the American diet promote lipid buildup, especially in the liver. Excess hepatic lipids can cause fatty liver, metabolic issues, inflammation, and oxidative damage, potentially contributing to AD pathology. To better understand how diet influences these biological pathways, our lab developed two macronutrient and calorie-matched rodent diets: one that models a Mediterranean-style diet (MD) and another representing the typical American diet (TAD). Previous studies in our lab using male and female C57BL/6J wild-type mice examined the effects of these diets over shorter periods. In a three-month dietary exposure study, mice fed the TAD exhibited notably greater hepatic lipid accumulation compared to those fed MD, suggesting early metabolic stress. However, gene expression analyses did not show significant evidence of inflammation or oxidative stress. This suggests the duration might not have been sufficient to detect molecular changes. This study prolonged diet exposure to six months to determine whether extended TAD intake leads to alterations in liver gene expression associated with inflammation and oxidative stress. We examined several inflammatory genes (e.g., TNF-α, Il-1β, and IL-6) and oxidative stress-related genes (e.g.,NRF2, HO-1, and SOD) and found that mice on the TAD showed higher expression of inflammatory and oxidative stress markers than MD-fed mice. Our lab has also previously demonstrated that six-month consumption of the TAD diet leads to AD-related markers such as elevated amyloid-β levels in the brain and the associated decrease in cognitive function. Combined, these results suggest that prolonged exposure to poor dietary conditions encourages inflammatory and oxidative stress signals from the liver, which may help drive AD pathology.

Reproductive success in oviparous reptiles is shaped by both nest environment and post-emergence resource availability. While the abiotic conditions of a reptile’s nest can greatly influence hatching success, post-emergence resource availability affects hatchling survival and growth. Many studies evaluate whether females favor particular nesting sites based on abiotic conditions; however no studies have linked nest site choice with post-emergence resource availability. Understanding this relationship could improve habitat management and enhance survival in Texas horned lizard (Phrynosoma cornutum) reintroduction programs. The species’ strong dietary specialization, particularly the reliance of hatchlings on small native ants (Crematogaster, Dorymyrmex, Pheidole, and Tetramorium spp.), makes it possible to test whether females select nest sites that maximize post-emergence prey availability. During the summers of 2023 and 2024, we located 21 nests of Texas horned lizards at a reintroduction site at Mason Mountain WMA and at a natural population (~42 km away) in central Texas. We compared nest and random sites to assess a female’s ability to select a nest site based on fire ant abundance, native ant abundance, soil moisture, soil compaction, and vegetation structure. Using stepwise model selection, results suggest that horned lizards select nest sites that have low soil compaction, reduced grass cover, and high amounts of hatchling prey. This information will be used to determine if there are suitable nesting areas at reintroduction sites and how to best manage land for optimum horned lizard survival. Release sites with softer soil, less grass, and higher abundance of native ants should be prioritized.

BRCA1 protects genomic stability by signaling for the homologous recombination pathway, DNA repair, and transcriptional regulation. A pathogenic mutation in BRCA1 causes a higher predisposition to the development of breast and ovarian cancer. BRCA1 acts as a scaffold for many dynamic protein complexes, as well as functions as an E3 ligase towards various substrates. We do not know which if these interactions and substrates are tied to the many phenotypes associated with BRCA1 dysfunction. Our lab is exploring the importance of BRCA1 E3 ligase activity toward the substrate histone H2A. Using structural and biochemical assays we designed a BRCA1 mutant that maintains other critical BRCA1 interactions and substrates but specifically eliminates nucleosome ubiquitylation. This mutant allows us to connect this specific BRCA1 function to downstream phenotypes at an organismal level. A homolog of BRCA1 is conserved in C. elegans as BRC-1. We propose that nucleosome monoubiquitylation is a key mechanism contributing to some cellular functions of BRC-1, including DNA damage accumulation and transcriptional regulation of cytochrome p450 genes. We have generated a C. elegans mutant strain with these two specific point mutations that alter the ability of BRC-1 protein to interact with the nucleosome and ubiquitylate histone H2A while retaining all other functions. We hypothesize this mutation increases DNA damage accumulation and disrupts transcriptional regulation to establish nucleosome ubiquitylation as a necessary precursor for these, but likely not all, BRC-1 functions. We compare three strains of C. elegans (wildtype, brc-1 knockout, and our nucleosome monoubiquitylation-deficient mutant) in different conditions designed to induce cellular stress or DNA damage accumulation. We find that BRC-1 nucleosome ubiquitylation contributes to embryonic survival under standard conditions as well as DNA damage-inducing conditions. Preliminary results also indicate an intermediate response regarding the role of nucleosome ubiquitylation in transcription regulation of cytochrome p450 genes. These findings help us better connect specific BRCA1 activity with downstream functions in the organism. We hope this project can be used as a blueprint for how protein structure to function relationships can be explored with the powerful C. elegans.

The Arctic is contaminated with mercury (Hg) higher than historic baselines because of emissions from temperate and subtropical areas. The nonbioavailable form, inorganic Hg, is deposited on the landscape and is thought to have limited impacts on terrestrial organisms. In aquatic systems, inorganic Hg is converted to methylmercury (MeHg), a contaminant that biomagnifies through food webs and poses reproductive and neurological risks to wildlife and humans. The Arctic wolf spider (Pardosa glacialis), is one of the most abundant terrestrial predators in western Greenland, and prior research has linked MeHg concentrations in wolf spiders to emergent aquatic insects, indicating cross-ecosystem contaminant transfer. While freshwater ecosystems are recognized as important sources of MeHg to terrestrial consumers, recent observations suggest that Arctic terrestrial insects may also exhibit elevated Hg concentrations comparable to aquatic insects, potentially providing an additional pathway of contamination for terrestrial predators. However, the relative contribution of aquatic versus terrestrial prey to P. glacialis diets across Arctic ponds remains unclear. We investigated how aquatic and terrestrial prey contribute to the diet of P. glacialis and how this dietary composition may influence contaminant exposure in Arctic terrestrial food webs. We hypothesize that wolf spiders consume a mixture of both aquatic and terrestrial insects, broadening the source of P. glacialis’s contamination. To test this, we captured and analyzed wolf spiders, terrestrial insects, and emergent aquatic insects at six Arctic pond sites. Across all ponds, spider populations exhibited a dietary mixture of aquatic and terrestrial insects. These results indicate that both aquatic and terrestrial insects influence P. glacialis MeHg contamination. This suggests that all artic food webs, not just those connected to aquatic systems, may be contaminated with MeHg, suggesting that the Arctic is more contaminated than previously thought.

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disease characterized by cognitive decline and neuronal loss. Although amyloid-ß plaques and tau neurofibrillary tangles are well-established pathological hallmarks of AD, growing evidence suggests that additional mechanisms, including oxidative stress, iron dysregulation, and ferroptosis contribute significantly to the progression of the disease. Ferroptosis is an iron-mediated form of regulated cell death driven by lipid peroxidation and impaired antioxidant defenses. Neurons are particularly susceptible to ferroptotic damage due to their high metabolic demand, lipid-rich membranes, and reliance on highly regulated redox homeostasis. Disruption of the cystine/glutamate antiporter (system xc-) can deplete intracellular glutathione (GSH), impair glutathione peroxidase 4 (GPX4) activity, and promote the accumulation of toxic lipid peroxides, ultimately triggering ferroptotic cell death.

This study investigates the role of ferroptosis in oxidative neuronal injury using the immortalized HT-22 mouse hippocampal neuronal cell line, a well-established model of glutamate-induced oxytosis. Oxidative stress is induced through glutamate exposure, which inhibits cystine uptake via system xc- and depletes intracellular glutathione levels. Cell viability is assessed using MTT assays, and quantitative PCR is used to evaluate transcriptional changes in key genes involved in ferroptosis and antioxidant defense, including Nrf2, Slc7a11, Acsl4, Ptgs2, Sod2, and Catalase. To confirm the involvement of the ferroptotic pathway, the potent ferroptosis inhibitor Ferrostatin-1 (Fer-1) is employed to evaluate its ability to rescue neurons from glutamate-induced toxicity.

By characterizing both functional and transcriptional responses to oxidative stress, this research aims to better define the underlying molecular mechanisms by which glutamate toxicity leads to ferroptotic neuronal death. Understanding how ferroptosis contributes to neuronal vulnerability may reveal novel therapeutic targets aimed at strengthening antioxidant defenses and mitigating neurodegeneration in Alzheimer’s disease.

Invasive species harm local ecosystems, economies, and cultures. There has been a substantial effort to research the recent increase in the number and frequency of successful invaders; however, relatively little information regarding if and to what extent genetics influences a species ability to become a successful invader exists. Whole genome sequencing provides a mechanism that could illuminate the importance of genetics for successful invasion and uncover the roles selection plays in predisposing populations to be successful invaders. Northern pike (Esox lucius) are native to the Holarctic region but have been widely introduced across Europe and North America. For example, pike were introduced to the area around Anchorage, Alaska in the 1970s and have since spread throughout southcentral Alaska. This species represents a major threat to populations of native fish species, especially multiple species of salmonid. Current management efforts appear to fall short as many pike populations have increased following removal. Part of this growth is likely from the ability of pike to disperse into marine environments, allowing them to colonize new bodies of freshwater. However, whether this ability to disperse is genetic – and therefore heritable - remains unknown. If there are alleles that predispose some populations of pike to be successful invaders, then such populations should be the target of multifaceted eradication efforts. To that end, several populations of pike – consisting of known residents and dispersers - from south-central Alaska were analyzed using whole genome sequencing to a) determine if there are alleles associated with dispersal ability and b) to determine if and to what extent populations are predisposed to dispersal behaviors. Overall, this research will improve our understanding of the genetic basis of invasive biology, identify populations of pike that should become a priority for eradication, and help protect native fish species.

Partner and Localizer of BRCA2 (PALB2) is a necessary linker protein between BRCA1 and BRCA2 that directs the cells towards homologous recombination in the presence of double-strand breaks (DSB). When this linkage is disrupted, the cell routes the repair towards non-homologous end joining or single-stranded annealing, which are not as efficient or accurate in their repair of DSB. With inefficient DNA repair, mutations accumulate that increase the risk of the development of cancer. It has been documented that mutation L35P in PALB2 is pathogenic and leads to a decrease in HR in cells. However, it is unknown if the loss of leucine at this position is causing a decrease in BRCA1 binding or if it is the introduction of a proline into the coiled coil region that is disrupting the secondary structure, thereby inhibiting binding. We are studying 5 variants of unknown significance (VUS) from PALB2 that are within the coiled coil and are also proline substitutions. One of these mutations is within the binding interface and the other four are on the backside of the coil opposite the predicted binding interface. We aim to answer if it is the introduction of a proline that is destroying the secondary structure and preventing binding. Isothermal titration calorimetry data suggests that all proline variants thus far, regardless of proximity to the interface, inhibit binding with BRCA1. We will pair binding data with the secondary structure analysis and thermal stability of these variants (using circular dichroism) to better connect variant structure with PALB2 dysfunction. 

This study investigates the phylogenetic relationships among the blueberry species (Vaccinium section Cyanococcus) using whole-genome data from 96 samples representing 21 species, including cultivars and putative hybrids, collected across the eastern United States. Despite the ecological and economic importance of blueberries, evolutionary relationships within the group remain incompletely resolved due to factors such as hybridization, polyploidy, and morphological similarity among species. By applying phylogenomic approaches to genomic data, this research aims to reconstruct a robust species phylogeny and clarify evolutionary relationships within the genus. The phylogeny will provide a framework for understanding diversification patterns in blueberries and support future studies of character evolution, hybridization, and species boundaries within the group.

Biaryl motifs are central in pharmaceutical drug design, yet conventional synthesis via palladium-catalyzed cross-coupling poses increasing sustainability and cost concerns. The study presented herein explores a greener alternative to palladium by employing iron(II) complexes supported by tetra-aza macrocyclic ligands for the direct arylation of pyrrole with phenylboronic acids. Under aerobic conditions, the optimized [Fe2+L1(Cl)2] catalyst featuring Me2Cyclam, (L1; 1,8-dimethyl-1,4,8,11-tetraazacyclotetradecane), exhibited broad substrate compatibility across 23 boronic acid derivatives. The method showed excellent functional group tolerance, including halides and esters, and provided yields up to 66%, which was clearly dependent on steric and electronic effects. Mechanistic experiments ruled out an outer-sphere radical pathway and instead suggested an Fe(III)–OOH species as the key oxidant, while DFT analysis supports enhanced boron electrophilicity for electron-withdrawing substituents, consistent with transmetalation as a central activation step. These findings highlight the potential of earth-abundant iron catalysts as sustainable, cost-effective platforms for C–C bond formation in complex molecular scaffolds.

Graphene quantum dots (GQDs) are emerging nanocarbon materials with tunable electronic structures and strong NIR emission, making them promising for bioimaging and optoelectronic applications. The chromophores responsible for GQDs’ NIR emission are often poorly characterized, limiting rational design and clinical applications. Extended π-conjugation, charge-transfer excitations, the presence of diradicaloids, stacking of multiple GQD layers, and blocking of nonradiative decay (as seen in non-aromatic fluorescence) may all contribute to GQDs’ NIR emission. Computation may help disentangle these contributions and aid development of NIR-emitting GQD nanostructures. However, predictive modeling of candidate GQD structures’ stability and NIR emission remains challenging. In this work, we develop a benchmark set of 16 well-defined GQD nanostructures known to emit in the NIR-I window, and we benchmark computational workflows for predicting these structures’ thermodynamic stability and NIR emission. Our workflows combine fast “pre-screening” of thermodynamic stability with symmetry-broken and symmetry-restricted time-dependent density functional theory (TD-DFT) predictions of absorption and emission, selected according to the open- or closed-shell nature of
each nanostructure. We find that B3LYP provides acceptable agreement with experimental absorption, while CAM-B3LYP shows good agreement with experimental emission, and that a “synthetic feasibility” descriptor provides reasonable initial screening. We believe that this workflow provides the foundation for high-throughput computational studies accelerating development of NIR-emitting GQDs.

Approximately 1 in 5 people will develop cancer at some point during their lifetime. As such, the development of effective anticancer treatments is of paramount importance. Unfortunately, current chemotherapeutic methods exhibit high toxicity and limited specificity in differentiating between cancerous cells and normal cells. A promising avenue of research focuses on rationally designing small molecule drugs that can target specific hallmarks of cancer, thus reducing off-target activity within the body. Elevated copper levels have been measured in several cancerous cell lines, such as breast cancer, and this hallmark presents an opportunity for targeted therapeutic intervention through metal chelation. As a result, clear structure-activity relationships (SAR) that enable rational design of metal-chelating small molecule drugs present a promising avenue for addressing these problems. Herein, we report the design and synthesis of a tunable series of tetra-aza pyridinophane derivatives featuring variation in quinoline moiety incorporation and R-group functionalization. These compounds were synthesized and characterized using standard analytical techniques and evaluated for biological activity in cancerous and normal breast cell lines. Overall, this work demonstrates the use of tetra-aza pyridinophanes as a promising platform for the development of selective anticancer agents capable of targeting copper-associated vulnerabilities while minimizing off-target toxicity within the body.

The purpose of the project is to predict the redox potential of tetra-aza macrocycle copper complexes. Density functional theory combined with a continuum solvation model was used to compute the redox potentials of 23 copper–ligand complexes. Gibbs free energies for the redox reactions were evaluated at the M06-2X/Def2-SVP/Def2-TZVPP/SMD level of theory. The predicted redox potentials agree well with experimental values for tetra-aza macrocyclic copper complexes. To examine the influence of chloride, calculations were performed for ligand systems both in the presence and absence of coordinated Cl. The correlation between the computed and experimental measurements yielded R2 values of 0.92 (without coordinated Cl) and 0.89 (with coordinated Cl), reflecting trends consistent with experimental measurements. For the complexes without coordinated chloride, the predictions further demonstrated strong accuracy, with a root-mean-square error of 30.9 mV. Overall, the result highlights this computational workflow as a practical approach for estimating the redox properties of copper complexes, redox-active systems relevant to biomimetic and medicinal chemistry.

Impedimetric Sensing of PFOA in Drinking Water
Qamar Hayat Khan,1 Ramachandra Legundapati,2 Gyu Leem,2 and Benjamin D. Sherman1,
1Department of Chemistry & Biochemistry, TCU, TX 76129, 2 Department of Chemistry & Biochemistry, TCU, TX 76129; 2 Department of Chemistry, SUNY, Syracuse, New York 13210, United States
Abstract
Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are persistent environmental contaminants that pose significant risks to human health and ecosystems.1 This poster is focused on the development of a label-free impedimetric sensor2 for the detection of PFAS in aqueous systems. The sensing platform is based on fluorine-doped tin oxide (FTO) electrodes functionalized with perfluorinated self-assembled monolayers (SAMs) to promote fluorophilic interactions with target PFAS molecules, particularly perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA).
FTO electrodes were modified using trichloro(1H,1H,2H,2H-perfluorooctyl) silane (TCPFOS) to form hydrophobic surface coatings. Successful formation of the SAM layer was confirmed through water contact drop experiment. Surface coverage of the monolayer was evaluated using cyclic voltammetry (CV) with the ferri/ferrocyanide redox couple, where cathodic peak current reduction indicates effective surface blocking by the SAM layer.
Impedance measurements were subsequently performed in 0.1 M NaCl electrolyte at controlled pH (4.5) while exposing the functionalized electrodes to varying concentrations of PFOA. The impedance data were qualitatively by plotting Cole–Cole capacitance plots to evaluate changes in effective interfacial capacitance and quantitatively by circuit fitting.3 These capacitance variations were correlated with PFAS concentration to assess sensor sensitivity and response behavior.
The results demonstrate that the TCPFOS-modified FTO surfaces produce measurable and reproducible capacitance changes in response to PFOA exposure, indicating the potential of fluorophilic surface chemistry combined with impedance spectroscopy for PFAS detection. This work contributes toward the development of a simple, label-free electrochemical sensing platform for monitoring PFAS contamination in water.
References
(1) Evich, M. G.; Davis, M. J.; McCord, J. P.; Acrey, B.; Awkerman, J. A.; Knappe, D. R.; Lindstrom, A. B.; Speth, T. F.; Tebes-Stevens, C.; Strynar, M. J. Per-and polyfluoroalkyl substances in the environment. Science 2022, 375 (6580), eabg9065.
(2) Zhang, M.; Zhao, Y.; Bui, B.; Tang, L.; Xue, J.; Chen, M.; Chen, W. The latest sensor detection methods for per-and polyfluoroalkyl substances. Crit. Rev. Anal. Chem. 2025, 55 (3), 542–558.
(3) Gabriunaite, I.; Valiūnienė, A.; Sabirovas, T.; Valincius, G. Mixed Silane‐based Self‐assembled Monolayers Deposited on Fluorine Doped Tin Oxide as Model System for Development of Biosensors for Toxin Detection. Electroanalysis 2021, 33 (5), 1315–1324.

Over seven million people are currently living with Alzheimer’s disease (AD) in the United States today, with that number set to increase due to extended life expectancy. Studies have shown that amyloid-beta (Aβ) plaque accumulation, tau tangles in the brain, metal-ion dysregulation, and oxidative stress are etiological hallmarks of AD. Various treatment methods have been employed to reduce the effects of Alzheimer’s disease, but these treatments aim to reduce Aβ plaque aggregates after they’ve formed, though this strategy focuses on symptom mediation as opposed to prevention. A different approach focuses on preventative treatment of AD to provide an antioxidant that can minimize the effects of oxidative stress through scavenging reactive oxygen species, which are known to lead to oxidative stress. Using this approach, a class of pyridinophanes has been synthesized as antioxidants and metal ion chelators to minimize the effects of oxidative stress through biomimicry of enzymes such as superoxide dismutase. The Green Group has presented multiple pyridinophanes that function as these biomimics, including OH-PyN3. Continued improvement of the synthesis of this small molecule remains a focus, with the intent of a more cost-effective synthesis to facilitate clinical translation. Here we present an improved synthetic scheme, with optimizations to the chelidamic acid esterification and protection of the chelidamic acid and diethylenetriamine moieties. Through this synthetic scheme, the total chemical yield and reduce cost were doubled to 45% and decreased by 81%, respectively.

Salt-induced diffusiophoresis is the movement of a charged nanoparticle in water, driven by an imposed directional gradient of salt concentration. This transport phenomenon has become an important tool for manipulating the motion of charged nanoparticles within porous materials and microfluidic systems. Micelles are valuable nanoparticles with the ability to host small guest molecules in aqueous media. Therefore, understanding micelle diffusiophoresis is also crucial for transport of small molecules. This poster reports experimental diffusiophoresis coefficients for the cationic micelle of hexadecylpyridinium chloride (CPC) in water the presence of NaCl and KCl. Thermodynamic parameters characterizing micelle-salt interactions were also experimentally determined. We find that micelle-salt interaction is the essentially the same for both salts. In contrast, we find that diffusiophoresis of CPC micelles occurs from high to low salt concentration in the NaCl case, while it occurs in the opposite direction in the KCl case. A model describing micelle-salt interactions and micelle diffusiophoresis based on theory of electric double layer is reported. This work offers new insights into diffusiophoresis of charged nanoparticles with potential applications for enhanced-oil recovery from porous rocks, micellar ultrafiltration for the purification of industrial water, and diffusion-based mixing inside microfluidics.

Oxidative stress plays a significant role in the progression of Alzheimer’s disease, making cellular antioxidant pathways attractive therapeutic targets. The Keap1–Nrf2 signaling pathway regulates the cellular response to oxidative stress, and inhibition of the Keap1 protein can activate Nrf2, promoting neuroprotective antioxidant responses. In this study, a series of quinoline-modified macrocyclic compounds were designed and synthesized to evaluate their potential as Keap1 inhibitors.
Computational and experimental approaches were employed to investigate the interaction of these compounds with the Keap1 protein. In-silico studies were conducted to analyze the binding affinity of the synthesized compounds using molecular docking, molecular dynamics simulations, and machine learning–based prediction of IC₅₀ values. These analyses provided insight into the stability of the ligand–protein complexes and the structural features that influence binding interactions.
The computational results indicate that compounds containing polar substitutions on the upper synthon exhibit stronger binding affinity and form more stable complexes with the Keap1 protein. Additionally, modification of the macrocyclic scaffold with quinoline substitution on the side nitrogen was found to enhance interactions with the protein binding pocket, suggesting a favorable structural motif for Keap1 inhibition.
Together, these findings provide insight into structure–activity relationships for this class of compounds and highlight promising molecular features for the development of Keap1 inhibitors as potential therapeutic leads for Alzheimer’s disease.

Chemotherapy relies on two therapeutic paradigms. The classic approach, most often used, employs small molecules to specifically target enzyme active sites, as represented by the new generation of kinase inhibitors. A secondary approach relies on interfering with protein-protein interactions thus requiring the use of larger compounds. While this latter strategy is garnering the attention of the pharmaceutical community, the rules for the design of these larger molecules, which are often cyclic, are not understood. The compact shape of small molecules leads to predictable behaviors including oral availability and cell uptake. For larger molecules that adopt multiple shapes, understanding the factors that control their shape and dynamic motion provides opportunities to predict similar behaviors that are critical for rational drug design. Here, the synthesis and characterization of a library of large, cyclic molecules (macrocycles) is described. The macrocycles of interest result from the dimerization of monomers. A total of 50 monomers containing different drug-like groups were synthesized. Reaction of a single monomer yields a homodimer, while combination of two different monomers leads to a 1:1:2 mixture of homodimers and a heterodimer. These combinations ultimately lead to a library of 1,275 different compounds. Liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry confirms that >99.9% of the reactions were successful. To investigate the biological activity of these compounds, we have provided this library to high throughput drug-screening facilities at Vanderbilt University and Scripps Florida. Of the several compounds created, macrocycles containing hydroxylamine groups are of special interest for two reasons. First, these molecules are similar to Hydrea, a widely-used, FDA-approved cancer drug. Second, unlike most macrocycles, both the shape and dynamics of these molecules are well understood so critical parameters such as oral availability and membrane transit can be predicted.

Nitric oxide (NO) is a gaseous free-radical 2° messenger with a physiological half-life of 3-5 seconds. Overexpression of the cytoprotective NO can lead to high concentrations of cytotoxic peroxynitrite (OONO^-), causing nitroxidative stress. Studies have shown that nitroxidative stress can be implicated as an etiology of several inflammatory diseases, such as Alzheimer’s Disease (AD) or Parkinson’s Disease (PD). A solution to counter nitroxidative stress is the biomimicry of the enzyme Nitric Oxide Dioxygenase (NOD). The enzymic activity of NOD relies on a heme active site, where excess NO is scavenged to produce nitrate (NO_3^-), a less potent oxidant. Several groups have successfully mimicked this activity; however, it has been restricted to water-insoluble, large molecules (porphyrin rings). While other antioxidant enzymes such as Superoxide Dismutase and Catalase have been successfully mimicked with water-soluble, metal-centered, non-heme scaffolds, to date, there have been no reports of water-soluble non-heme mimics of NOD activity. It is the Green Group’s goal to explore the possibility of developing a molecule capable of NOD enzymic activity. Therefore, theoretical feasibility of this reaction was explored using Density Functional Theory (DFT) as well as Conformer-Rotamer Ensemble Sampling Tool (CREST). Current data shows that based on an energy screening of several simple-to-complex tetra-aza small molecules, the reaction is successful both in gas phase and in water (implicit and explicit solvation). Additionally, computational intermediate spin states have, so far, matched those reported experimentally. Energy diagrams were then proposed based on the most stable ground state energies of structural intermediates. This data provides, for the first time, a new perspective on the possibility of the successful biomimicry of NOD with non-heme, water-soluble, tetra-aza small molecules.

Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are man-made chemicals that have become increasingly detected in surface waters worldwide, yet accurate interpretation of environmental monitoring data is often complicated by widespread non-detect observations. This study evaluated PFAS occurrence along the upper Trinity River in north-central Texas and examined how treatment of censored data influences contamination assessment. Ten surface water samples were analyzed using EPA Method 1633, with ~80% of the measurements below the reporting limit. Multiple imputation was applied to estimate site-level concentrations and quantify uncertainty associated with censored observations. Spatial analysis revealed a 12.8-fold difference in PFAS concentrations between background sites (53.7 ng/L) and hotspot sites (684.9 ng/L). Three sites exhibited fluorotelomer sulfonate signatures consistent with potential influence from aqueous film-forming foam (AFFF). Comparison with sum of detects only revealed an underestimation of total PFAS concentrations by approximately 32-38 ng/L across sites, with the greatest bias occurring at background sites. Comparison with EPA maximum contaminant levels revealed widespread exceedances for regulated compounds: PFOS exceeded the 4 ng/L MCL at seven sites (range: 2.7-180 ng/L), PFOA exceeded the 4 ng/L MCL at three sites (range: 1.5-38 ng/L), and PFHxS exceeded the 10 ng/L MCL at four sites. These findings demonstrate that statistical treatment of censored observations can substantially influence PFAS concentration estimates and the interpretation of contamination patterns.

Habitat loss and fragmentation reduce landscape connectivity and are major drivers of biodiversity decline. In South Africa, mosaic corridor restoration has been proposed to reconnect protected areas, with the Tanglewood Conservation Area (TCA) representing an early property targeted for restoration. Establishing baseline ecological conditions prior to restoration is necessary to evaluate future change. Because bats respond rapidly to habitat quality and resource availability, they serve as effective indicators of ecosystem condition. We established baseline information on bat activity, diversity, and resource use within the Leopard Ridge property of TCA by surveying two key resources: water sources and a cave roost. Behavioral observation surveys were conducted at two water sites (Lodge and Causeway) and one cave from May–July 2025 using infrared video paired with ultrasonic acoustic detectors to document activity and identify species. At water sources, we quantified bat presence, drinking events, and foraging behavior, while emergence counts at the cave estimated nightly roost use. Across 30 water surveys, bats were observed for 2,346 total seconds (mean = 76 s/night), with only 44 seconds of foraging recorded. A total of 91 drinking events representing five species were documented, with greater activity at the Causeway site. Cave emergence averaged 720 bats per night, with Cape horseshoe (Rhinolophus capensis) and Egyptian slit-faced (Nycteris thebaica) bats present. These results provide baseline data for evaluating changes in bat activity, diversity, and resource use as restoration progresses.

By leveraging a two-dimensional derivative thermogravimetric (2D-DTG) mixing ratio framework, my research measures distinct lignocellulosic carbon fractions and assesses their dynamics under different soil management over 19-month period (Jan 2023-Jul 2024). The 2D-DTG mixing ratio technique offers a quick, extraction-free method for delineating lignocellulosic fractions and management-induced alterations in soil organic carbon quality. The result shows that cellulose thermal peaks occurred at 330 ± 10 °C, while lignin peaks were detected at 490 ± 10 °C in NT, CC, and COMP soils but shifted to ~401 °C in CC+C soils. Thermal separation between cellulose and lignin domains decreased from ~180 °C (18 min) in NT to ~70 °C (7 min) in CC+C, indicating stronger coupling of lignocellulosic degradation. Cellulose peak intensity increased from 0.2 × 10⁻⁵ (NT) to 1.1 × 10⁻⁵ (COMP and CC+C), while lignin intensity increased from 0.3 × 10⁻⁶ (NT) to 5.4 × 10⁻⁶ (CC+C). Mixing-ratio analysis showed cellulose contributions of 51–58% and lignin contributions of 42–49% across treatments. Mean SOC increased from 1.95% (NT) to 2.17% (CC+C), with cellulose-derived carbon increasing from 1.01% to 1.27%, indicating enhanced lignocellulosic carbon integration under combined cover crop and compost management. Temporal analysis further showed that Lignin-derived carbon increased in later months, rising from ~38–40% to ~45–49%, indicating progressive labilization of recalcitrant lignin and greater incorporation into SOC pools. These results suggest organic amendments enhance lignin retention and long-term soil carbon storage with benefits for nutrient cycling and soil stability.

This study investigated behavioral indicators of reproductive receptivity in captive Texas kangaroo rats (Dipodomys elator). Video-based behavioral observation surveys were conducted to compare behaviors and frequency of behaviors between isolated individuals and paired individuals, as well as among different combinations of paired individuals. In total, 18 unique behaviors were identified. Overall, the frequencies of behaviors were low, and no consistent differences were detected between pairing types. Under the current setup, behavior did not provide a reliable indicator of reproductive receptivity. We recommend that future studies house males and females separately prior to trials to ensure interactions between unfamiliar individuals.

Coastal wetlands are critical ecosystems located at the dynamic interface between terrestrial and marine environments, shaped by the intricate interactions among sediment transport and deposition processes, geomorphology, hydrodynamics, and biogeochemical processes. They offer essential services, acting as a primary defense against storm surge flooding and reducing cyclone wind wave energy. However, the sustainability of coastal freshwater wetlands is increasingly threatened by natural and anthropogenic stressors, including sea level rise and land subsidence. The latter process alters coastal morphology and, in combination with saltwater intrusion, which is primarily driven by unsustainable groundwater pumping rates, contributes to the salinization of the soil, leading to a severe decline in freshwater wetlands' spatial extent and significantly reducing the ecosystem services they provide. Wetlands are particularly important in areas such as the Texas Gulf Coast, including regions extending from the Galveston to Beaumont County coasts, where there is a recurrence of cyclone events causing severe devastation, sprawling urbanization extending toward the coasts, and extreme use of groundwater resources to meet the demands of the growing population. This study utilizes an approach that incorporates remote sensing datasets and analysis techniques, including deep learning methods facilitated by GeoAI, and field-based geophysical methods to explore the following key objectives: (1) quantify spatial and temporal changes in coastal wetland extent and type from 2000 to 2024 in response to major stressors; (2) investigate the hydrogeological conditions of the critical zone in areas experiencing declining freshwater wetland coverage, assessing the impacts of environmental stressors on the wetland critical zone using key indicators such as subsurface erosion and other morphological indicators (3) evaluate how shifts in wetland dynamics influence their ability to mitigate cyclone-related hazards and examine corresponding spatiotemporal variations in methane emissions.

The Dockum Group is of palaeontologic and sedimentary significance due to the fossils and preserved sedimentary structures. The units contain a vast variety of Late Triassic vertebrates ranging from aquatic and amphibian to early mammals and dinosaurs, and in addition the Dockum Group contains preserved upper-flow-regime structures. Early result from initial samples collected from an outcrop of a preserved lake have yielded potential bone fragments and teeth. The opportunity to study how upper flow regimes and fossil assemblages are related to preservation makes the Dockum group a unique study area.

Coastal aquifers around the Galveston Bay System, located along the Texas Gulf Coast, have been experiencing saltwater contamination for the past few decades. This is driven by extensive groundwater use, land subsidence as a result of groundwater pumping, and rising sea levels in both the short term (through storm surge from cyclones) and long-term (relative sea level rise). This study leverages multitemporal groundwater quality data from wells located proximal to the coast and further inland to assess the spatial distribution and propagation of key saltwater contamination indicators (TDS, Chloride, etc.). This is accomplished through cluster mapping to identify contaminant hotspots and their progression over time, as well as by assessing the extent of contamination through evaluating the relationship between distance from the coast and inland contamination. The key objective is to provide insights of the modes of aquifer contamination, identify susceptible areas, and determine key drivers that may contribute to this accelerating contamination.