The Herpesviridae family is comprised of nine ubiquitous viruses capable of causing primary and latent infection in humans. Herpes Simplex Virus Type 1 (HSV-1) is an alpha-herpesvirus that can manifest as herpes labialis, ocular infection, and encephalitis. The HSV-1 capsid contains a dodecameric assembly of pUL6 monomers at one vertex forming a portal for DNA to be translocated into the capsid. The portal contains several potential functional domains (stem, clip, b-hairpin, wing, crown, and wall) that coordinate the DNA encapsidation process during viral replication. In this study, we aimed to examine the contribution(s) of these domains to DNA packaging. A library of mutant UL6 genes containing in-frame insertions of 15 base-pairs throughout the gene as well as specific mutations to the region encoding the pUL6 -hairpin was generated. In addition, specific mutations to amino acid 541- 558 B-Hairpin domain included a full knockout, a scramble of residues and a substitution of charged residues (KRNQ) to alanine. Thirty-seven random insertions throughout UL6 gene were identified and the location of each insertion confirmed by DNA sequencing. Each mutant gene was cloned into the HSV-1 Strain-17 bacterial artificial chromosome (BAC) using a heat-shock controlled, homologous recombination event in SW102 E. coli. Mutant BACs were transfected into African green monkey kidney (Vero) and 31 (HSV-1 UL6 complementing) cell lines to generate mutant virus stocks. Western blot analysis of virus infected cell lysates was performed to confirm expression of mutant pUL6 proteins. In addition, viral replication kinetics were assessed in a replication assay.

Mesenchymal Stem/Stromal Cells (MSCs) are non-hematopoietic, immunomodulatory cells with therapeutic potential. MSCs have been extensively researched; however, many mysteries hinder their progression to clinical application. This project investigated the immunoregulatory characteristics of MSCs from immunologically active tissue, bone marrow, and immunologically privileged tissue, cornea. An assay matrix consisting of flow cytometry, metabolic assays, secretory analysis, immunosuppressive assays, and qPCR was implemented to conduct this research. Aim one characterizes the immunosuppressive functionality of Human-Cornea derived Mesenchymal Stromal Cells (cMSCs). cMSCs demonstrate the capability to suppress the proliferation of T-cells in stimulated peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) when cocultured or separated by a transwell membrane, which allows for the exchange of soluble factors. Further mechanistic analysis shows that activated PBMCs induce expression of the immunomodulatory enzymes of the tryptophan catabolizing pathway, specifically, indoleamine 2,3-dioxygenase (IDO). Knocking down of IDO abolishes cMSCs’ immunosuppression on the proliferation of T-cells. These results suggest that immunosuppression via cMSCs occurs in a paracrine manner using IDO as the principal mechanism. Therapeutic utilization of MSCs in the treatment of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) patients is currently being tested and has been approved in Europe. As such, aim two elucidates the impact of confounding factors on the potency mechanisms of Human Bone Marrow-derived MSCs (BM-MSCs) in the large intestine. The secretory analysis determined that BM-MSCs secrete copious amounts of the angiogenic factor Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor-A (VEGF-A). Dose-dependent inhibition of VEGF-A is observed when BM-MSCs are cocultured with Human Large-intestinal Microvascular Endothelial Cells (HLMVECs). BM-MSCs’ immunosuppressive functionality is not compromised regardless of the presence of HLMVECs. Further analysis confirmed the expression of endothelial Nitric Oxide Synthase (eNOS) in HLMVECs. Blocking of eNOS by a pharmacological inhibitor restores BM-MSCs’ VEGF-A secretion and does not modulate MSCs’ immunosuppressive capabilities. These findings suggest wound healing and immunosuppression are two separable MSC potency mechanisms. Overall, this research has illustrated that regardless of anatomical tissue site, MSCs display non-overlapping immunosuppressive and wound-healing mechanisms.

The purpose of this qualitative descriptive phenomenological study was to explore the lived experiences of women with chronic pain who are currently using self-compassion and gratitude interventions. The theoretical framework for this study was based on self-compassion theory and Buddhist psychology. The research question guiding this study was: What are the lived experiences of women with chronic pain who are currently using self-compassion and gratitude interventions? Fifteen women with chronic pain participated in semi-structured interviews. The data collected were analyzed using Moustakas's (1994) Modification of the Stevick-Colaizzi-Keen Method of Phenomenological data analysis. This involved a thorough process of obtaining and analyzing verbatim transcripts, identifying invariant meaning units, clustering these into themes, and developing comprehensive descriptions of the participants' experiences. Five major themes emerged from the data: (1) Way of Life, highlighting the transformational impact of self-compassion and gratitude practices on participants' daily lives and self-perception; (2) Spiritual Perspectives, showing how faith and spiritual practices were intertwined with gratitude and self-compassion; (3) Acceptance, demonstrating how these practices helped participants accept their pain without judgment; (4) Self-Compassion and Gratitude Techniques, detailing the various emotional, spiritual, and physical practices used by participants; and (5) Self-Compassion and Gratitude Characteristics, discussing the strengths and challenges of these practices as perceived by the participants. The findings revealed that self-compassion and gratitude practices led to significant improvements in how participants managed their chronic pain. Participants reported changes in their internal dialogue, greater emotional resilience, and a more positive outlook on life.

Estradiol (E2), synthesized by Endoplasmic Reticulum (ER) resident enzyme, aromatase, is essential for the development of sex characteristics and fertility in females. Produced in the ovaries and adipose tissue, Estradiol levels often become unregulated, supporting breast tumorigenesis. Therapeutics aim to reduce these levels via the inhibition of Aromatase or the modulation of the estrogen receptor (Er+). Aromatase Inhibitors and Estradiol agonists are effective for treating most breast cancers, but treatment challenges present for Triple-negative breast cancer (Er-/Pr-/Her2-). Receptors for Triple-negative breast cancer (Er-/Pr-/Her2-), and the rate-limiting enzyme, Aromatase, are absent. From human breast tissue, we cloned a 207 amino acid cDNA encoding for a 21.7-kDa protein, entitled Aromatase Interacting Partner in Breast (AIPB), that directly interacts with Aromatase. AIPB is present in affected and unaffected breast tissue. A stable selection was developed (Puromycin) for MDA-MB-231 (Er-/Pr-/Her2-), after AIPB was subcloned into a vector with a TET-ON promoter. Overexpression of AIPB in Er+/Pr+/Her2- and Er-/Pr-/Her2+ resulted in the decreased levels of Estradiol (E2). In the tumor microenvironment, serine proteases are overexpressed, aiding in cancer metastasis and invasion. I hypothesized that serine proteases may be proteolyzing AIPB, resulting in elevated Estradiol levels, in MDA-MB-231 (Er-/Pr-/Her2-) cells. A time course study (12-96h) was performed, with serine protease inhibitor, Epigallocatechin gallate (EG), in the presence and absence of Doxycycline (250 μg/mL). Data suggests that AIPB expression is stabilized between the concentrations of 5-50 μM in the presence of Epigallocatechin gallate (EG) and plays a central role in Estradiol (E2) synthesis (Er-/Pr-/Her2-), either directly or indirectly. In conclusion, AIPB may permit early detection of Triple-negative breast tumors, acting as a biomarker at the Mitochondria Associated-ER Membrane (MAM).

Chronic stress has become an issue that plagues modern day humanity. In short bursts, stress can be beneficial; however, in the longer term, stress can become harmful to the human body. Chronic stress leads to the overstimulation of the Hypothalamic-Pituitary-Adrenal Axis (HPA), resulting in an overproduction of cortisol. Initially this can aid in several anti-inflammatory responses, such as tissue repair; however, prolonged elevated cortisol levels may suppress the immune system and impair its ability to control opportunistic pathogens in the human body (Gu, et al., 2012). Previous studies in our lab have identified significant changes in the brain and heart of mice subjected to stressful environments and infection with murid herpes virus type 4. These findings suggest that there is a common factor causing this, which we believed could be vascular changes triggered by the stress response and the re-activation of latent viruses. The main objective of this study was to evaluate the impact of chronic stress-induced viral re-activation on the development of atherosclerosis through the suppression of the SR-BI/HDL pathway. SR-BI is a multi-functional scavenger receptor with high affinity for HDL that plays a role in lipid transport out of cells for loading onto HDL and delivery back to the liver for secretion (Linton, et al., 2017). It is expressed on macrophage and endothelial cells, which are key players in the pathogenesis of Atherosclerosis. In literature, it has been observed that in the absence of SR-BI, plaque formation occurs at a higher rate within arterial walls (van Eck, et al., 2003). According to the CDC, there currently exists a high prevalence of heart disease and stroke within underserved communities. These communities face increased levels of poverty that can directly translate into chronic stress within individuals. If this is paired with the re-activation of dormant viruses within individuals in these communities, then it may play a role in atherosclerosis induced vascular dysfunction that could explain the increased prevalence of heart disease and strokes. This study consisted of an in-vivo and in-vitro model in which mice and cells were studied to assess changes in gene and protein expression of atherogenic markers in response to chronic stress and viral infection. The in-vivo portion consisted of mice subjected to stress and infected with murid herpes virus 4 as a model of Epstein Barr virus infection in humans. The in-vitro portion of this study dealt with creating a model that could mimic stress and viral infection within cultured macrophage and endothelial cells with the use of Cortisol and Polyinosinic:polycytidylic acid (Poly I:C). The in-vivo and in-vitro studies were performed in tandem to reinforce the validity of the in-vivo results as well as to further isolate whether macrophages or endothelial cells within the brain and heart could contribute more to atherosclerosis development. Our results suggest that stress-induced viral re-activation may indeed play a significant role in the development of plaque within arteries and contribute to an increased risk of cardiovascular/neurovascular diseases.

JENEEN L. SUTTON CAN IT TEACH STUDENTS WITH SPECIAL NEEDS TO READ? A MULTI-METHODS CASE STUDY ANALYSIS OF COMPUTER-AIDED INSTRUCTION This research aims to explore the impact of Computer-Aided Instruction (CAI) on the reading achievement of students with special needs, framed within Zhu’s Theory of Smart Learning Environments and insights from Snyder et al. (2019) on technology in special needs education. The study addresses whether CAI can significantly enhance reading outcomes for these students, navigating through the perceptions of teachers, students, and parents. The research employs a mixed-methods approach, combining qualitative and quantitative methodologies. Data collection involved pre- and post-intervention assessments of students' reading levels using the Lexile framework, interviews with teachers, students, and parents, and classroom observations. Categorization and coding of qualitative data ensured a coherent analysis despite inherent biases related to the researcher's dual role as investigator and educator. Results indicate an overall positive trend in reading achievement among students post-CAI intervention, aligning with Zhu’s emphasis on personalized, adaptive learning environments. However, not all students showed significant improvement, highlighting the variability in CAI effectiveness. Teachers generally held positive perceptions of CAI but faced challenges integrating it seamlessly into existing instructional practices. Parents and students also provided mixed feedback, emphasizing the need for tailored approaches to meet individual needs. The study concludes that while CAI presents substantial benefits for special needs education, its effectiveness is not universal. The positive outcomes observed underscore the potential of CAI to enhance reading skills among special needs students, confirming the researcher’s perception of its value. However, challenges related to integration and varied student responses call for ongoing support and customization of CAI interventions. Recommendations for future research include longitudinal studies to assess the sustained impact of CAI, exploring its effects across diverse populations with different disabilities, and investigating the role of targeted professional development for teachers. Additionally, further exploration into parental involvement and collaborative strategies is suggested to optimize the benefits of CAI in special education. As technology evolves, particularly with advancements in AI, there is a promising horizon for the enhanced application of CAI, potentially transforming special education practices and outcomes.

Breastfeeding offers significant health benefits for both infants and mothers, yet disparities in breastfeeding initiation persist, particularly among African American mothers. These disparities are not merely the result of individual choices but are deeply rooted in factors including Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs), which have been shown to impact health behaviors and outcomes across lifespans. Nonprofits and community-based programs, such as Reaching Our Sisters Everywhere, Inc. (ROSE), work to increase breastfeeding rates by providing healthcare provider training on breastfeeding support but lack awareness of ACEs' influence on breastfeeding behaviors. This study investigates the influence ACEs has on breastfeeding behaviors among African American mothers in Georgia from an epidemiological perspective. The objective of this research is to analyze ACEs and breastfeeding data of African American mothers to contribute to the understanding of the correlation between ACEs and breastfeeding behaviors. Other objectives are to determine if significant differences exist in ACEs based on region and to determine if the region is associated with breastfeeding behaviors. This study analyzes BRFSS self-reported ACEs data and demographics of African American women ages 18 and older with the CDC WONDER breastfeeding data about infants breastfeeding or not breastfeeding at the time of discharge. Data collected from this query system is specific to African American mothers in Georgia. Binary logistic regression and ANCOVA are the statistical analyses conducted using SPSS for Windows. The study revealed that even when demographic variables are controlled for, there are no significant regional variations in breastfeeding behavior among African American women in Georgia, nor in the overall ACEs scores. This study also provides evidence-based recommendations for including the findings in the curriculum used during the Healthcare Provider Training initiative at ROSE, Inc. The results of this study add to the literature through the investigation of breastfeeding behaviors and ACEs in African American mothers in Georgia. Overall, the study contributes towards closing gaps in maternal and child health disparities in the U.S., adding value to the body of knowledge needed to address the critical public health issue of low breastfeeding rates in African American women in Georgia.

Reproductive healthcare remains an incredibly difficult system to navigate, riddled with burdens and obstacles. Reproductive healthcare is also plagued with elements of stigma, especially regarding abortion care, that influence how people navigate their reproductive healthcare needs and decisions. Limited qualitative research has investigated the impact of reproductive health and abortion stigma on reproductive health-related decision-making. This research sought out to gain insights on the influence of stigma across reproductive health and medical decision-making from the lived experiences of women with roots in the Southern region of the United States. Fifteen in-depth, semi-structured interviews were conducted with self-identified women, recruited through purposive and snowball sampling, who have previously had an abortion or have experience working in abortion healthcare delivery. Inductive analysis of the interview data revealed reproductive healthcare access barriers and resources, various sources of reproductive health stigma, stigma’s influence on health-related decision-making, and the multi-level implications of stigma in reproductive healthcare. Five themes emerged from the lived experiences of the women in this study and provided insights into how women navigate reproductive health access, abortion, associated stigma, decision-making, while also enduring the world around them. This research unveiled ingrained stigma associated with the entire field of reproductive healthcare and the role stigma plays in peoples’ complex lives, but investigation into more diverse populations is recommended. The research also uncovered the need to invest more deeply in collaborative, public health comprehensive sexuality education rooted empowerment, storytelling, and narrative creation, while addressing the multi-leveled nature of the world we live, play, and work in. The study also highlights that despite the burdens, shame, judgment, stigma, cultural influences, religious ideologies, and political attacks against reproductive health and abortion access, people can still envision a world where people can make autonomous decisions related to their reproductive health - but more work must be done.

SUSANA MARLYN CARLOS EVALUATING CROSS-SECTOR COMMUNITY COLLABORATION FOR PARKINSON’S: THE HEALTHY PARKINSON’S COMMUNITIES (HPC) NETWORK Under the direction of SUZIE MADDEN, DrPH, MPH Parkinson’s Disease (PD) is a significantly increasing public health concern, and the neurodegenerative disease requires a holistic, collaborative approach to addressing all aspects of the disease as well as working toward prevention. Many national, statewide, regional, and local Parkinson’s-oriented organizations exist, and there is little effort to coordinate these players toward improving the local community. The objective of the study was to evaluate individual local-level coalition-building efforts, utilizing a survey and interview process to measure success factors and areas for improvement. The research question was, “How to measure existing collective action effectively?” The two main tools utilized for the study included the Community Coalition Action Theory (CCAT) and the Wilder Collaborative Factors Inventory (WCFI). The survey expanded upon the WCFI to assess the outlined factors, and the interviews helped define these factors qualitatively for future community development. A total of 14 community leaders participated in the survey, of which 5 were also interviewed. Statistical Rho correlations were conducted to test the association between success factors within a category, against the category, and against outcome data. The first series of correlations for success factors within each category resulted in one significant pairing between mutual respect and the ability to compromise (under membership characteristics). The second series of correlations for each category with its relative success factors yielded significant correlations for at least one success factor for each category. The third correlation for categories and outcome variables highlighted membership characteristics, and resources stood out as substantial categories highly associated with the outcomes tested using linear regressions. The linear regressions resulted in one significant outcome where the category of resources predicted access to resources and programs (F(1,10) = 8.10, p < 0.01, R2 = 39%). In addition, the two tools utilized (WCFI and CCAT) have not been employed together to define coalitions and pose a significant research pathway that maps information visually and with data.

Field observation of Iranian American Immigrants (IAI) shows a broad spectrum of mental health problems, including unsuccessful/ successful suicidal attempts, schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, depression, anxiety, school dropout, substance abuse, and parent-child conflicts among younger IAI. Although in the onset of mental health conditions like schizophrenia and depression, genetic factors, family history, and pre-immigration incidents are involved, the role of stressful environmental factors and life experiences, including immigration and post-immigration situations are significant. Through in-depth semi-structured interviews with 23 IAI,18-26, this qualitative research investigated the impact of immigration on their mental health aiming to find if participants had experienced stress and how they assessed this experience. Applying the interpretative phenomenological analysis conducted manually in thematic content and inductive reasoning, the five themes were identified as patterns of stressors, perception of stress, coping mechanisms, manifestations of stress, and participants' reflections. The results showed all IAI youth experienced stress from language barriers, cultural barriers, a lack of social acceptance, and parents' high expectations. Racism, discrimination, bullying, stereotyping, identity struggles, parents' cultural norms, parents' demands, parent-child conflicts, and financial difficulties were among other stressors. Stress experienced by participants affected their emotional and physical health resulting in low self-esteem, worries, perfectionism, and fearfulness. Also, they reported social withdrawal, depression, anxiety, difficulties with transparency, physical symptoms, and academic challenges. To manage their stress, participants chose physical activities, seeking help, learning new skills, avoidance of stressful situations, and smoking or vaping. All participants seemed satisfied with immigration to the US despite experiencing stress which was particularly true when they compared themselves with their relatives or friends in Iran. Since all participants have experienced stress due to immigration at a younger age, they might have difficulty in communication, confidence, or trust. Their relationships might be affected leading to dissatisfaction and conflict with their partners, families, and social networks. Developing immigrant-supportive policies and providing social support for this population at multiple levels of individual, family, and community are fundamental to decreasing the risk of mental health conditions in IAI youth. Therefore, creating systematic programs that address IAI youth needs in terms of mental health conditions is crucial.