Secondary metabolites of Serratia marcescens as potential antimicrobials

The rise of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) has become a global health emergency. According to the CDC, nearly 1.27 million people worldwide are killed by antibiotic-resistant pathogens, costing $4.6 billion annually to treat. Many pathogens are developing resistance against commonly prescribed antibiotics at a pace far more rapid than pre-pandemic levels. Considering this observation, new antimicrobials need to be identified. Natural sources of antimicrobial substances represent potential sources of new and interesting antimicrobials. Serratia marcescens, a common soil bacterium, is one of these potential sources for new antimicrobials against both prokaryotic and eukaryotic pathogens and viruses. One of these compounds, prodigiosin, has been well documented for its potential as an antibacterial and antifungal agent. This exploratory study involves culturing S. marcescens in varying growth conditions, such as temperature. By altering the growth conditions of S. marcescens, it may be possible to modify the production of secondary metabolites for extraction and antibiotic efficacy testing. The primary goal of this experiment is to analyze the activity of crude cellular lysate of S. marcescens under different laboratory conditions and compare its antibiotic effects with first-generation antibiotics. In addition to culturing S. marcescens, we have screened our laboratory isolate using the Kirby-Bauer plate assay against eight different antibiotics to develop a basic antibiotic susceptibility profile. This will be an additional measure for possible changes of our S. marcescens isolate under different laboratory conditions. With these crude extracts, we will also screen for antimicrobial activity against other common prokaryotic microorganisms, eukaryotic pathogens, and viruses

Dental Anesthesia VR Injection Simulation

Problem: Pre-clinical dental and hygiene students must master local anesthesia injection techniques, yet live practice carries patient risk and scheduling constraints. Background: VR simulation can create a safe, repeatable environment for psychomotor skill development without patient exposure . Methods: We built a prototype in Unreal Engine 5 featuring: Anatomically accurate 3D head and soft-tissue models (Blender → Unity), Two needle sizes and color-coded cartridges that “snap” onto a syringe, A dental mirror tool selectable in either hand, Haptic-feedback controllers signaling incorrect angles (buzz) and excessive depth (resistance rumble), Two tutorial modes: guided in-VR prompts and a 2D screen-capture walkthrough. Status/Preliminary Outcomes: Core prototype functionality—tool selection, injection depth measurement, real-time haptic cues, and automated depth screenshot emails—is fully implemented. Internal testing confirms stable performance Implications: This VR tool establishes feasibility for safe, standardized anesthesia training and sets the stage for multi-procedure expansion and formal effectiveness trials

Animal Detection System (ADS)

The Animal Detection System (ADS) is a portable, real-time monitoring solution designed to enhance safety in outdoor environments by detecting and deterring potentially dangerous animals around campsites. This project aims to provide campers with an automated and reliable early-warning system to help prevent unexpected wildlife encounters, especially in remote or forested areas. The system utilizes the WYZE Cam v3, a high-resolution, weather-resistant camera with night vision, paired with a Raspberry Pi 5 microcomputer for processing visual data. A passive infrared (PIR) motion sensor enables the system to activate only when movement is detected, optimizing performance and reducing false alarms. When motion is detected, the system captures footage and evaluates whether a potential threat is present. If a predator is identified, deterrent mechanisms are triggered—these include flashing lights, a loud siren, and an automated bear spray device designed to activate safely and only when a large animal is detected. The system is designed for flexible power options and can operate using a wall outlet, a solar panel, or a car battery, making it suitable for a wide range of camping scenarios. A custom-designed printed circuit board (PCB) integrates all hardware components to ensure efficient and compact functionality

Connecting Disciplines: Dermatologists Discuss Skin Cancer Screening in Physical Therapy

Background: This study aims to explore dermatologists’ perspectives on the integration of skin cancer screening within physical therapy practice. The hypothesis is that insights from dermatologists can enhance the efficacy and accuracy of skin cancer screening by physical therapists (PTs), thereby improving early detection rates and patient outcomes. Methods: A total of five dermatologists participated in this study, each with between 5 and 18 years of experience and a diverse range of expert opinions and insights. This qualitative study utilized semi-structured interviews with participating dermatologists. The interview questions focused on their knowledge of skin cancer screening, perceptions of its implementation in physical therapy, perceived impact on detection outcomes, and recommendations for clinical practice and educational curricula in physical therapy. Data were analyzed using thematic analysis to identify key themes and insights. Results: The results indicated that dermatologists generally support the idea of physical therapists conducting initial skin cancer screenings. Key themes emerged around employing the accessibility of PTs, the potential for early detection, and the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration. Dermatologists provided specific recommendations for screening protocols and educational enhancements for physical therapy programs. Conclusion: The study concludes that incorporating dermatologists’ insights into physical therapy practice warrants further investigation, as it has the potential to improve skin cancer screening processes. Data also shows that by fostering interdisciplinary collaboration, PTs can play a crucial role in the early detection of skin cancer, ultimately leading to better patient outcomes

Callison Mail Advertisment

https://scholarlycommons.pacific.edu/callison-college-sis/1056/thumbnail.jp

Student Voice

The After-School Program at Aspire Ben Holt Middle School consists of around fifty 6th to 8th graders. After the regular school day, these students are tasked with completing one hour of study/educational time then are able to participate in enrichment activities. Although provided with multiple resources, student engagement has been a difficult challenge for the program to overcome. As a solution, we as Fellows have implemented the use of Student Leadership club and Fun Fridays to gain their opinions and host activities and events requested. As a continuation of past fellows projects, the idea of the Student Leadership Club is not new to the After School Program, making it easier to implement the concept. By hosting weekly Leadership Club meetings, students can go through all stages of event planning, ranging from brainstorming ideas, creating a list of items needed, staying within a budget, following through and hosting the event, and a period of reflection. This planning of club meetings and Fun Fridays have resulted in activities ranging from physical games, dish and dessert making, and various arts and crafts

Tanky

This garment, created through the deconstruction and reconstruction of old clothing, serves as an artistic exploration of the limits of free speech. Most of the visual elements were generated through AI models I trained and fine-tuned, reflecting both the possibilities and constraints of technology in creative expression. Before coming to the United States, I believed that freedom of expression here was absolute. However, my experiences during the COVID-19 pandemic challenged that assumption. I noticed that certain online opinions—whether expressing a positive view of China or questioning mainstream public health policies—were often met with hostility, algorithmic downranking, or even content removal. Social media platforms, while promoting openness, often enforce inconsistent rules. Some hate speech is swiftly deleted, yet racially charged or extreme content can persist on certain platforms. Additionally, political views are not always moderated equally; critiques of government policies may be suppressed more than pro-government narratives. These experiences have made me question what “freedom of speech” truly means in the digital era. In a world where algorithms shape discourse, corporate interests influence visibility, and information is selectively presented, are we truly free to express ourselves? Another layer of influence on this work comes from Cold War–era ideological polarization. Many who lived through communist regimes view capitalism as morally corrupt, while others raised in the West see communism as inherently evil. But is any system so black-and-white? This piece, caught between destruction and reconstruction, reflects the blurred lines between restriction and expression, and invites reflection on the evolving meaning of freedom

Breaking Down Financial Aid For High Schoolers

This workshop is designed to equip members of the Improve Your Tomorrow (IYT) Brotherhood with the knowledge and skills needed to successfully complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). The FAFSA is a critical step for securing federal financial aid, including grants, scholarships, and work-study opportunities, which play an essential role in making higher education accessible and affordable. The IYT program serves to motivate high school students to attend higher education, and this presentation will help the students start thinking about the financial aspect of going to college. The session will provide a comprehensive overview of the FAFSA application process, including eligibility requirements, key deadlines, and step-by-step guidance on accurately completing the form. Participants will also learn how to avoid common mistakes, maximize their financial aid packages, and understand the significance of maintaining financial aid eligibility throughout college. Through interactive exercises and real-time assistance, IYT participants will gain confidence in navigating the financial aid system and ensuring they receive the necessary support to achieve their academic goals. The workshop will conclude with a Q&A session, allowing participants to clarify doubts and address any concerns related to their financial aid journey

July 2025

https://scholarlycommons.pacific.edu/alumni-news/1006/thumbnail.jp