Three-dimensional (3D) models provide researchers with realistic and interactive visualizations of anatomical structures that are otherwise difficult to examine through traditional imaging techniques. In medical imaging and biomedical research, segmented 3D models play a critical role in enabling experts to inspect regions of interest with enhanced precision, offering substantial benefits for surgical planning, disease diagnosis, and targeted treatment development. Zebrafish, a widely used vertebrate model organism, presents a unique opportunity for studying developmental processes and disease progression, yet effective tools for automated segmentation of zebrafish CT scans remain limited.This research aims to develop a specialized computational framework for accurately identifying and segmenting regions of interest in zebrafish CT imaging data. Our methodological approach explores three complementary pathways: (1) construction of a custom deep learning based segmentation model; (2) training and evaluation of a labeling module within 3D Slicer; and (3) development of a deep learning based training pipeline using Dragonfly. To date, the most substantial progress has been achieved through the deep learning model, which has successfully generated preliminary segmented outputs demonstrating the feasibility of automated 3D zebrafish analysis.While these initial results are promising, ongoing work focuses on refining model accuracy and comparing the performance of all three methodological approaches. By integrating insights from machine learning, biomedical imaging, and interactive labeling tools, this project aims to contribute a robust segmentation workflow for zebrafish CT scans and ultimately support more precise and efficient biomedical research applications.

This research investigates cold spray deposition of functionally graded Ni-PEEK composite coatings for erosion-resistant protection of carbon fiber–reinforced polymers (CFRPs). A two-layer system—Ni-PEEK for adhesion and pure Ni for durability—is developed to minimize substrate damage while enhancing performance. Deposition parameters are optimized, and coatings are characterized using SEM, XRD, and erosion testing. Results aim to demonstrate a damage-free, high-performance coating strategy for aerospace applications.

We present an AI-powered system designed to assist rehabilitation therapists in identifying evidence-based therapies for patients with severe Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI). The system searches and retrieves relevant medical literature to surface patient-specific therapy recommendations. Built at Penn State, this prototype aims to bridge the gap between clinical research and individualized patient care, supporting therapists in making more informed, research-backed treatment decisions.

Personality interventions for recidivism and re-offense continue to be scarce, with many interventions focusing on clinical counseling or punishment. However, prior research shows the importance of prosocial behavior in personality change, which could be of use in addressing the link between negative personality traits and (re)offending. In a five-wave longitudinal study, we examined the effect of a set of prosocial behavioral tasks on shifts in Dark Triad traits in previously incarcerated individuals.

Under HGF stimulation, crosstalk between ARF6 and Rac1 is facilitated by a multi-protein complex of scaffolding protein GRASP binding Cytohesin-2 and Dock180. Dock180 binds to GRASP via the SH3 binding domain during HGF stimulation to promote Rac1 activation. Mutating GRASP binding sites could alter Dock180 activation causing crosstalk between ARF6 and Rac1 to be disrupted and result in impaired Rac1 signaling.

Cancer is a longstanding and widespread global health concern; with cases rising every year, the necessity for continued innovation and novel treatments remains immensely relevant. In this paper, we studied how cancer cells cooperate to produce essential tumorigenic growth factors and how this cooperation can be disrupted to develop a new type of cancer cell therapy. When a cell line overexpressing a transcription factor is combined in mixed population with wildtype cells, evolutionary biology suggests that the overexpressing cells will outcompete the wildtype (WT) until only the fastest-growing population remains. If this overexpression is combined with the knockout of an essential secreted protein in the same cell, the engineered cells can continue to rely on the secreted protein from the WT cells until the WT are outcompeted and eliminated, resulting in the collapse of essential growth factor production and ultimately, the collapse of the tumor. Here, we suggest pairing overexpression of cancer driver genes, MYC or CCND1, with a knockout of secreted proteins, Clusterin or IL6, in the same cell. Cell growth analyses demonstrate more rapid growth in cells overexpressing either MYC or CCND1 compared to WT, making them promising candidates to add a Clusterin knock-out.

VasH and Hcp interact within vibrio fischeri to regulate transcriptional expression of hcp. This is required for activity of a Type 6 Secretion System (T6SS), which is a molecular lancet capable of killing neighboring cells that don't possess the proper immunity factors. This interaction is being analyzed to determine the mechanism by which hcp interacts with the bacterial enhancer binding protein VasH.

Peat moss has been a cornerstone of the horticultural and floriculture industries for over a century. While a natural product, peat develops slowly and is a critical carbon sink for the ecosystem. Using a v/v mixture of biochar and a commercial potting media, both Snapdragon and Viola were grown following commercial protocol. An analysis was conducted on the finished crop quality and media properties to determine if biochar is a viable additive for spring annuals.

To assess the extent of this risk in Pennsylvania (PA) stone fruit orchards, the objectives of this study were to: (i) screen bacterial isolates from stone fruit orchards managed with and without antimicrobials for tolerance to oxytetracyclin, copper-based compounds, and streptomycin; and (ii) identify the genus of resistant isolates by using Sanger sequencing. This work provides a recent survey of antimicrobial resistance prevalence among environmental bacteria in PA stone fruit orchards.

I guide students and observers through a simulation in the vr headset to collect and analyze data to report interesting findings.

Alcohol Use Disorder affects 11% of the U.S. population, yet there is an incomplete understanding of how alcohol exposure alters neurobiology. To evaluate the effects of binge alcohol consumption on PFC outputs in mice, an RNAscope multiplex workflow was used to determine relative expression of SSTR2 within the PFC→PAG and PFC→NAc pathways following subjection to the DID method. Compared to naive controls, binge drinking decreased SSTR2 levels of PFC→PAG but not PFC→NAc projections.

Parkinson’s disease is associated with progressive motor dysfunction and degeneration of dopaminergic neurons. Drosophila parkin mutants (Park Δ21) provide a useful model for studying neuromuscular defects associated with the disease. In this study, we evaluate the effects of candidate compounds (A10, C4, and G9) on motor performance in Park mutant flies. Locomotor ability was assessed using a negative geotaxis climbing assay, and flight muscle function was examined through behavioral flight assays. These experiments aim to identify compounds that may improve neuromuscular performance in this model

On-lot septic systems are widely used in rural communities in Pennsylvania to treat and dispose of domestic wastewater. However, poorly maintained and aging septic systems can be a source of contamination to private water sources. Because there are no statewide septic system maintenance regulations in Pennsylvania, individual maintenance practices vary significantly across municipalities. This study uses homeowner survey and water quality data to determine how septic system characteristics and user maintenance practices affect private well water quality.

Colostrum, the first milk produced by female mammals after giving birth, is incredibly important to the health of mammalian offspring. Through passive transfer, colostrum provides offspring with immunoglobulins and thus allows for initial immune protection from pathogens. For this reason, the consumption of high-quality colostrum by lambs and kids is vital to their longevity. The goal of this study was to better define and evaluate the quality of sheep and goat colostrum and to characterize passive transfer status in lambs and kids. Ewe and doe colostrum samples were collected from various farms at the time of parturition, and serum samples from their lambs and kids were collected between 2 and 7 days after birth. The study was approved by the Pennsylvania State University IACUC. All samples were frozen and sent to the Penn State Central Milk Testing Lab for analysis. All birth data, such as birth weight and whether offspring were born alive or dead, were also collected. Commercial radial immunodiffusion sheep and goat kits (RID, Triple-J Farms, Bellingham, WA) were used to directly measure total IgG concentration of each colostrum sample. A Brix refractometer (MISCO, Solon, OH) was used to determine a Brix measurement and related to RID IgG concentration to determine validation of the methodology for sheep and goats. Enzyme Linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA, Immunology Consultants Laboratory Inc, Portland, OR) was used to determine the IgG concentration of lamb and kid serum samples, and total protein measurements (g/dL) of the serum samples were compiled via digital refractometer (MISCO, Solon, OH). More colostrum samples are soon to be sent to Penn State and will be analyzed. From there, all compiled data will be analyzed to assess colostrum quality. Serum IgG concentrations of the kid and lamb serum samples will be documented based on total IgG consumed from colostrum, and the relationship between total protein and serum IgG measurements will be assessed.

This study will analyze the difference in participant ability to correctly answer cued recall questions while looking at associative or unitized pairs (i.e. doorchair or toothbrush respectively) of words. Additionally, the potion of the stem cue, either right (tooth___) or left (____brush) will also be tested for any significant effect it may have on participant ability to recall. Results will allow for a better understanding of how the brain encodes memory.

This research examines Latino voter mobilization by comparing interview data from Latino communities in Pennsylvania and Virginia. Through qualitative analysis, the study explores how policy concerns, socioeconomic experiences, and perceptions of political representation shape civic engagement. Findings highlight immigration, economic stability, and healthcare as recurring priorities influencing political participation. By centering lived experiences, this project contributes to broader discussions on representation, political inclusion, and the evolving role of Latino voters in shaping local and national democratic processes.

Declining health literacy presents a growing public health crisis within the United States. In this study, three major LLMs (ChatGPT, Gemini, and Claude) were tested on their ability to improve the readability of neurodevelopmental genetics abstracts. Abstracts were rewritten with standardized LLM prompting and evaluated using the Flesch-Kincaid Grade Level and an established quality rubric. All LLMs produced high-quality rewrites of improved readability, with Gemini producing the greatest proportion falling within lay-audience target scores.

The Physical Activity and Public Health Laboratory conducted surveys for Cycling Without Age chapter administrators and volunteers to better understand their experiences within the program. Cycling Without Age is a nonprofit organization that provides free bicycle rides for older adults through volunteer-run chapters worldwide. Survey findings identify bicycle fleet details, rider perceptions, and roles within chapters. These insights may help improve the program and support the expansion of Cycling Without Age into additional communities.

This research project specifically argues that legislative proposals such as House Bill 1828 support individual autonomy by removing financial barriers at the point of care: balance beneficence and nonmaleficence in the promotion of public health, while also minimizing potential harms at individual and population levels, and advance justice when evaluated through a capabilities approach. Furthermore, this research addresses potential contractarian objections that oppose such mandates based on increased cost to enrollees, employers, and government entities.

Black holes with masses exceeding the limits of stellar evolution may form through successive mergers, called hierarchical mergers, in dynamical environments such as dense star clusters. We construct binary black hole merger trees under simplified formation scenarios and forecast the ability of next-generation gravitational-wave observatories, like Cosmic Explorer, to reconstruct the 'genealogy' of black holes. We identify cases where improved detector sensitivity will more accurately resolve the formation histories of hierarchical black holes.

Mid-twentieth-century American culture treated menstruation with secrecy, euphemism, and limited education for girls. When schools and corporations introduced menstrual instruction, their materials emphasized cleanliness, concealment, and composure while avoiding emotional and physical realities. Within this context, Judy Blume’s 1970 novel Are You There God? It’s Me, Margaret offered a rare portrayal of adolescent bodily change and uncertainty. By depicting menstruation with emotional honesty, Blume bridged the gap between inherited silence and emerging cultural openness surrounding girls’ health and identity.

Penn State University Park's combined heat and power system consumes 34,789 metric tons of natural gas to generate steam and electricity for campus. Renewable natural gas produced from local biomass represents a potential decarbonization pathway. This research assessed the feasibility of supplying campus energy demand with RNG, beginning with existing feedstock sources and expanding in scope as each proved insufficient.

In this paper, the CO2 emissions across the Penn State Campus will be investigated.

An inline schlieren imaging system was designed and applied to an opposed-flow burner to characterize density gradient formation and transient burning behavior of solid fuels. Steady-state calibrations with POM pellets demonstrated schlieren peak locations within ~15% of Chemkin simulations across momentum fluxes of 5–15 Pa. Stepped flow experiments with PMMA revealed that regression rates increased with momentum flux, while transient burning times exhibited a non-monotonic trend, suggesting competing preheat and blowing effects govern fuel response to impulsive flow changes.