NETWORK ANALYSIS OF ANTIMICROBIAL RESISTANCE IN STAPHYLOCOCCUS AUREUS: CHARACTERIZATION OF HUB GENES AND THEIR FUNCTIONAL IMPLICATIONS

Antimicrobial resistance is a major cause of morbidity and mortality in patients with S. aureus infections. In this study, we analyzed genes, molecular mechanisms, and pathways driving drug resistance in S. aureus using network analysis. Using whole-genome sequencing (WGS) data and systems biology approaches, we identified 229 AMR-associated genes and constructed a protein-protein interaction network among these genes. Through network topology and functional enrichment analyses, we not only confirmed their association with resistance, but also highlighted the central roles of these genes in resistance pathways, such as efflux, target replacement, and target protection, which are directly linked to multiple drug classes. This work demonstrates how combining genomics, network analysis, and system biology approaches can aid in identifying specific genes that warrant consideration for future examination. This approach supports broader efforts to mitigate antibiotic resistance by focusing on the most impactful targets, contributing to the design of targeted treatments and improved management strategies

Understanding Seasonal Shifts In The Chemistry of Nueces and Sabinal Rivers

This study examines the characteristics of seasonal changes in surface water parameters for two rivers in south central Texas: the Nueces River and the Sabinal River. In the winter of 2024, the Nueces River exhibited lower temperatures and relatively lower conductivity, whereas the Sabinal River showed slightly higher conductivity despite lower temperatures. In the summer of 2024, the Nueces River showed a temperature rise, lowered pH but higher conductivity levels. In the fall of 2024, the Sabinal River demonstrated a noticeable increase in temperature and conductivity. The observed changes over seasons in surface water systems could indicate increased ion dissolution, potential runoff, possible dilution effects, anthropogenic influence and rock-water interactions

Assessing Water Discharge Sites and Effluent Composition in Texas Rivers

Effluent discharge from oil and gas establishments can significantly affect the quality and ecological health of natural water bodies. This study identifies potential water discharge sites across various rivers, primarily in Texas, and evaluates effluent composition using historical disclosure reports. Through the analysis of the chemical constituents of these discharges, we assess their potential environmental impact on water quality. Understanding the composition of effluents and their compliance with regulatory standards is crucial for developing sustainable water management strategies. This research provides insight into the effectiveness of current disclosure practices and highlights areas where improved monitoring and mitigation efforts may be necessary

Leveraging AI for the Identification of Aquatic Invertebrate Species

The identification of similar-looking aquatic invertebrate species is an especially difficult task due to their subtle morphological differences. To address this challenge, we developed a Roboflow model trained on a dataset that includes images from iNaturalist as well as images from our own collection. The model is designed to identify 15 distinct species of aquatic invertebrates native to the greater San Antonio region. Here, we evaluate the model’s performance, in terms of its accuracy in detecting and correctly labeling each of these species. Additionally, we are working towards deploying this model in a mobile format such that it is accessible for field use, allowing for the identification of species in real-time. Ultimately, this tool benefits both researchers and students by enabling the accurate, efficient, and rapid identification of aquatic invertebrates

​ I Set You Up: Understanding Parenting and Motivation Styles on Academic Achievement

The traditional parenting theory focuses on responsiveness and demand as an important dimension of parenting styles (Kim et al., 2018). Parenting is influenced by cultures due to shared values, beliefs, and experiences that establish behavioral norms among the groups (Guarnaccia & Rodriguez, 1996). This study consisted of 80 participants; all were students from Texas A&M University-San Antonio using SONA systems. The present study measured parenting styles (Authoritarian, Authoritative, Permissive) using a 30-question Parental Authority questionnaire (PAQ) with ratings of 1 (Completely agree) - 5 (Completely disagree) and a 28-question Academic Motivation orientation scale with a Likert scale rating of 1(Corresponds a lot)-7 (Does not correspond)to see how these two factors play a role in academic achievement among college students. Our preliminary analysis indicated that permissive parenting style had a negative correlation with amotivation and a positive correlation with extrinsic motivation-external regulation and college GPA

Correlation Between Sleep, Anxiety and Physical Activity

This study explores the interconnected relationships between sleep quality, anxiety levels, and physical activity, aiming to understand how these factors influence each other and overall well-being. PURPOSE: to investigate sleep, anxiety, and physical activity levels in order determine the relationship between these variables. METHODS AND PROCEDURES: Participants completed a survey about their physical activity levels, anxiety, and sleep quality. In addition to these variables, participants also reported their height, weight, and age. RESULTS: There was a negative correlation between physical activity and anxiety (r = -0.10), a positive correlation between anxiety and sleep quality (r = 0.30), and a negative correlation between physical activity and sleep quality (r = -0.36). CONCLUSION: Regular physical activity is weakly correlated with improved sleep quality but not anxiety

The Hidden Role of Drugs in Nazi Germany

This research examines the often-overlooked role of drugs in Nazi Germany, particularly the use of methamphetamine—specifically in the form of a pill called Pervitin—by German soldiers during World War II. It explores how trauma from World War I and the economic struggles of the Weimar Republic contributed to a society where drug use became normalized, ultimately paving the way for stimulants to be militarized. The German military distributed Pervitin to soldiers to enhance endurance, reduce fatigue, and possibly increase aggression, shaping their behavior and decision-making in high-stress combat situations. In conducting this research, I analyzed historical sources and military records to assess the broader impact of wartime stimulant use, particularly its effects on combat performance and moral detachment. Additionally, this research places Nazi Germany’s drug policies in a global context, comparing military stimulant use among the Germans, the Allies, and the Japanese. By exploring the connection between war and drug use, I argue that the role of stimulants in warfare is a significant but often overlooked aspect of military history

Edward\u27s Aquifer

We have sampled different rivers that are described as gaining rivers because they receive recharge from the Edwards and Trinity aquifers. This research is being conducted to understand how various metals made their way into the system, either through natural or anthropogenic processes. Edwards Aquifer is highly vulnerable to various containments from pesticides and urban life. The main goal of researching the surface water systems is to understand and use chemical proxies to track contaminants into these rivers. Throughout 2024, samples of surface water were collected from different sections of the Nueces and Sabinal Rivers in which alkalinity, conductivity, and pH were analyzed to measure various contaminations and its effect on river water quality

Future Shaping Factors: Stress, Optimism, and Career Aspirations in Hispanic Serving Institutions

Understanding the development of career aspirations is vital, particularly for students in Hispanic Majority Institutions (HMIs). We collected online measures of belonging, stress, optimism, and career aspiration among undergraduates attending an HMI to explore these relationships. Our explanatory framework revealed that acceptance was significantly positively correlated with career aspirations relating to achievement, leadership, and education. In contrast, rejection was negatively associated with lower career aspirations. Serial mediation models confirmed that stress and optimism significantly mediate effects of belongingness on career aspirations, where optimism plays a role in maintaining resilience and motivation to strive for long-term goals. Our study underscores the important role of surrounding students in an inclusive and supportive academic environment to promote student career aspirations at HMIs