Medicine and Health Sciences Commons^™

Regeneration Of Neurons In Human Brain Tissue; A Revolutionary Concept With Therapeutic Potential, Mackenzie R. Dunn

Other Undergraduate Research

There is current research to suggest that endogenous neuronal regeneration, exogenous neuronal stem cell transplantation and glial cell reprogramming could be prospective therapeutic treatments for neurodegeneration and traumatic injury. With these conditions, there is significant brain atrophy, loss of neurons and loss of synaptic connections which can have devastating effects on executive functioning, cognition, learning and memory. This review will examine these modern approaches to adult neurogenesis, and assess the viable mechanisms and future outlook of these three therapies for neurological regenerative medicine.

Effect Of Exercise Training Intensity On Cognition, Jaclyn Voyt

Honors Projects

A literature review examining the effects of exercise intensity and modality on cognitive performance.

Intercellular Communication Via Gap Junctions Influences Cell Survival During Hypoxia, Lauren E. Harmon, David L. Geenen

Student Summer Scholars Manuscripts

Stem cell therapy can be beneficial following myocardial infarction. However, when murine bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells (mBM-MSCs) are injected into the ischemic area, a large percentage of these cells undergo apoptosis resulting in decreased therapeutic benefits. We hypothesize that the loss of these mBM-MSCs is regulated by intercellular channels or gap junctions (GJs) that provide apoptotic signals passed between ischemic cardiomyocytes and mBM-MSCs. Our research aims to attenuate these GJs by suppressing Connexin-43 (Cx43) expression, the predominant channel-forming protein. We will accomplish this by transiently transfecting a Cx43 siRNA into mBM-MSCs. Our data demonstrate that intracellular fluorescent dyes and …

Essential Tremor: A Review, Grant S. Taylor

Honors Projects

Essential tremor (ET) is one of the most prevalent movement disorders globally: approximately 1% of the population is affected (Haubenberger & Hallet, 2018). In the past, ET has been grossly oversimplified clinically and pathologically and only through recent study has the complexity of the disease process and presentation been made apparent. Despite the recent advances in research regarding ET, the general public is still largely unfamiliar with the various aspects of the disease (Cristal et al., 2018). Perhaps even more surprising is the similar lack of knowledge that ET patients have regarding their own disease (Cristal et al., 2018). Recent …

Neural Correlates Of Social Pain In Psychological Disorders: Implications For Educational Settings, Skye E. Johnson

Honors Projects

Pain has long been defined as a multidimensional construct; in past research, not only have the physical and sensory aspects of pain been investigated, but also the cognitive and emotional aspects, which include the experience of social pain. This experience is generally accepted to be very distressing and can have adverse effects on one's mental health, especially for those with neurological disorders. In my paper, I examine the effects of social pain on brain activity in individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and borderline personality disorder (BPD) as compared to those who are neurotypical. This research finds that while neurotypical …

An Exploratory On Partial Anomalous Pulmonary Venous Return (Papvr), Gabriella Pitingaro

Honors Projects

This exploratory gives insight into Partial Anomalous Pulmonary Venous Return (PAPVR). The paper goes into depth explaining more detail about the congenital heart defect, the embryology surrounding it, and how much is still left to be discovered. With PAPVR's rarity (0.4-0.7% of the population), not much is known. Hypocritically, since PAPVR often goes undetected, our numbers for cases are estimated to be an underestimated value. The paper also goes into a specific case study regarding the celebrity Amy Grant and her experience with PAPVR and how it has affected her life and career.

Analysis Of Racial/Ethnic Disparities And Language Barriers In Radiation Therapy, Carrie Warner

Honors Projects

It is important for every patient within healthcare to have access to and receive quality care no matter their race, ethnicity, and/or primary language. Focusing on cancer care in the United States, there are racial and ethnic disparities as well as language barriers, both within the English language itself and with foreign languages, that prevent patients from receiving high quality care. This meta-analysis provides evidence of current disparities within healthcare that can be applied to the radiation oncology department and reveals suggestions for advancements including the use of language-concordant physicians and medical interpreters. Some of the policies, plans, and resources …

Literature Review On Drosophila Research In Parkinson’S Disease, Maryann Jaquith

Honors Projects

Parkinson’s disease (PD) is one of the most prevalent neurodegenerative diseases. It is characterized by its main symptom of a tremor that usually starts in one limb. The four cardinal symptoms of PD are tremor, rigidity, bradykinesia, and postural instability. While the four cardinal symptoms are all motor symptoms there are non-motor symptoms for PD which include cognitive changes, sleeping disorders, lightheadedness, early satiety, and mood disorders. PD is characterized by dopaminergic (DA) neuron loss and the accumulation of Lewy bodies (LB) which are predominantly composed of α-synuclein (α-Syn) protein.

α-Syn is a protein found abundantly in the brain. It …

Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome: Causes, Complications, And Treatments, Toni Tornberg

Other Undergraduate Research

Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS) is an endocrine disorder prevalent in 6-10% of reproductive age women. The purpose of this review paper is to describe both genetic and environmental causes and symptoms of PCOS. Additionally, to summarize the complications women face with a PCOS diagnosis and present treatment and management options. The information forming this paper was compiled from various online heath journals. The results show that both clinical and biochemical examinations are used for the diagnosis of PCOS while the exact cause is unknown. Genetics and environmental factors, specifically the intrauterine environment, are discussed as causes. Management and treatment options …

Impacts On Fitness Associated With Acquisition Of Gut Microbiota In Drosophila, Corinne Topolski

Honors Projects

Drosophila melanogaster is a model organism that has been studied to demonstrate the role of gut microbiota in fitness. It has already been established the gut microbiota is extremely important for the health of the organism, but the source of the microbiota has not been studied as thoroughly. In order to test if the source of microbiota affects the fitness of the individual, adult male and female flies were placed onto plates to defecate after being raised on standard food and food with carbenicillin. Stock eggs were washed in either water or a bleach solution, then placed on the defecation …

Exploration Of The Effectiveness Of Naprotechnology In Women’S Healthcare, Cecilia Cerven

Honors Projects

Many women today struggle with abnormal menstrual cycles and the painful symptoms of reproductive disorders. The standard approach to treatment of infertility, irregular menses, polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS), endometriosis, hormonal abnormalities, premenstrual syndrome (PMS), and other pathophysiologic reproductive conditions is the prescription of a pill for symptom management or implementation of assisted reproductive technologies. However, many women may not feel comfortable with this treatment strategy due to ethical concerns or apprehension about potential side effects. The purpose of this paper is to assist in bridging the gaps in education to increase overall awareness of a new approach to women’s healthcare, …

Screen Time Effects On Children And Adolescents In Both The United States And Australia, Marrisa Cox

Honors Projects

Technology and screen time have become an essential part of everyday life in many countries across the world. Children in Australia and the United States are exposed to increasing hours of technology exceeding recommendations by pediatricians in both countries. Pediatricians suggest limiting screen time due to the research indicating possible impact on social development, and unhealthy emotional and physical outcomes in children. The objective of this paper was to review the mental and physical impacts of screen time on young and adolescent children and to compare and contrast policies regulating screen time in the United States and Australia. The information …

The Effects Of Saido Learning On The Cognition Of Patients With Dementia: A Retrospective Study, Stephanie N. Laduke

Honors Projects

SAIDO Learning is a cognitive and social intervention developed by the Kumon Institute in 2004 to slow the progress of symptoms in patients diagnosed with dementia. Today, twenty-three nursing facilities nationwide utilize SAIDO Learning. The data in this retrospective study compare the baseline Mini-Mental State Exam (MMSE) scores to the MMSE scores obtained six months after SAIDO Learning is implemented from patients diagnosed with dementia at Waterford Place in Jenison, Michigan. These scores are reassessed every 6 months as a standard of care. The data was deidentified by the staff of Waterford Place before given to the research team. A …

S100a12 In Digestive Diseases And Health: A Scoping Review, Alexandre Carvalho, Jacky Lu, Jamisha D. Francis, Rebecca E. Moore, Kathryn P. Haley, Ryan S. Doster, Steven D. Townsend, Jeremiah G. Johnson, Steven M. Damo, Jennifer A. Gaddy

Peer Reviewed Articles

Calgranulin proteins are an important class of molecules involved in innate immunity. These members of the S100 class of the EF-hand family of calcium-binding proteins have numerous cellular and antimicrobial functions. One protein in particular, S100A12 (also called EN-RAGE or calgranulin C), is highly abundant in neutrophils during acute inflammation and has been implicated in immune regulation. Structure-function analyses reveal that S100A12 has the capacity to bind calcium, zinc, and copper, processes that contribute to nutritional immunity against invading microbial pathogens. S100A12 is a ligand for the receptor for advanced glycation end products (RAGE), toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4), and CD36, …

Examining Pediatric Tourette Syndrome, Alyssa Orlando

Honors Projects

Pediatric Tourette Syndrome is a complex neurological disorder. Many people associate it with swearing, however in reality it is very rarely associated with that. This paper entails my own personal experiene with Tourette Syndrome and examines potential treatment options in the pediatric population.

Pediatric Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia: A Review, Luke Geierman

Honors Projects

Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (ALL) is the most commonly diagnosed pediatric cancer and the most frequent cancer-induced cause of death among young people. Despite this fact, tremendous progress in treating the disease has been made in the last 50 years. This systematic literature review examines the incidence of the disease as well as the importance of risk stratification in treatment planning. The role of genetics in ALL risk stratification, specifically hypodiploidy and hyperdiploidy, is also considered. Finally, current treatment protocols, treatment failure, and the future of research and treatments are all each examined.

Chapter 14: Hospice And End-Of-Life Care, Sally Pelon, Brandon Youker, M. Paola Leon

Books and Contributions to Books

This chapter explores end-of-life issues and concerns as well as the hospice movement’s role in assisting terminally ill individuals. Specific social work assessment and interventions tools are offered considered as well as controversial issues in end-of-life care.

"Farewell" To Prognosis In Shared Decision-Making, Robert F. Johnson

Peer Reviewed Articles

Whether because of a cultural pattern or personal preference, palliative care clinicians encounter persons approaching the end of life who wish to limit or forego prognostic information relating to their situation. This scenario has received attention in a recent motion picture as well as a newly available advance directive modification—the Prognosis Declaration form. The ordinary expectation for end-of-life shared decision-making with a capable person is clinician disclosure of the best effort at prognostic assessment. The optimal match between the expressed values, goals, and preferences of the person with available clinician expertise is hopefully achieved. For the clinician, a person’s choice …

The Benefits And Accessibility Of Integrative Exercise In Geriatric Populations, Elizabeth Nisper

Honors Projects

There are many physical and mental benefits of conventional exercise and they have been well-studied. However, integrative exercise practices aim to encompass more than physical fitness. There is also a spiritual/ethical component when taking into account aspects such as meditation and mindfulness. By examining a number of different health domains, we can study whether the benefits of yoga and tai chi extend beyond the benefits of exercise more broadly. While the short-term physical fitness benefits of other cardio and strength training may exceed those of integrative practices, yoga and tai chi appear to be equally as beneficial in the long …

The Proliferation Of Porcine Retinal Ganglion Cells Using Pnu 282987, Rebecca Karl, David Linn

Honors Projects

The retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) from porcine eyes were extracted to work towards a potential therapy for glaucoma. There is not a known cause of glaucoma or the apoptosis of RGCs that cause the eventual blindness associated with glaucoma. The goal of this protocol is to protect the RGCs from dying by adding a nicotinic acetylcholine receptor activator to induce neuronal proliferation and protect against glutamate-induced excitotoxicity. PNU 282987 was used as the nicotinic acetylcholine receptor activator due to its neuroprotective properties. We hypothesized that we would observe the proliferation of RGCs (associated with increased cell numbers) with varying levels …

Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease And The Pnpla3 Gene, Lori Houghton-Rahrig, Debra Schutte, Jenifer I. Fenton, Jennifer Awad

Peer Reviewed Articles

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a rapidly emerging worldwide public health concern strongly associated with obesity, insulin resistance/diabetes type 2, and the metabolic syndrome (Younossi et al., 2011). It is the most common cause of liver disease in the world (World Gastro - enterology Organisation [WGO], 2012). Defined as a total liver weight comprised of more than 5% fat, NAFLD can progress from simple fatty liver disease to nonalcoholic steatohepatitis with or without fibrosis, liver cirrhosis, liver cancer, or liver failure resulting in premature death (Levene & Goldin, 2012). The development and progression of NAFLD is influenced by genetic …

Hiv Diagnosis Disclosure To Infected Children And Adolescents; Challenges Of Family Caregivers In The Central Region Of Ghana, Anna Hayfron-Benjamin, Dorcas Obiri-Yeboah, Stephen Ayisi-Addo, Peter Mate Siakwa, Sylvia Mupepi

Peer Reviewed Articles

Background

Disclosure of Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) to infected older children and adolescents is essential for both personal health maintenance and HIV prevention within the larger population. Non-disclosure of HIV status has been identified as one of the potential barriers to optimum adherence especially in children and adolescents. Like many other countries in the SSA region, Ghana has significant number of children and adolescents infected by HIV, who have increased survival times, due to increased access to ART. However, both family caregivers and healthcare workers face an array of challenges with the disclosure process, including the timing, what information about …

The Death Debate: Penumbra Conundrum, Robert F. Johnson

Peer Reviewed Articles

Determination and declaration of death by neurologic criteria, brain death, is an established and legally accepted clinical practice with profound implications. Concerns regarding the accuracy of this diagnosis raise important clinical, ethical, and legal issues. A recent magazine article highlights these concerns by describing a poignant example of a patient meeting accepted clinical and ancillary testing criteria for brain death in the setting of post cardiac arrest hypoxic ischemic encephalopathy (CA-HIE). With continuation of ventilatory and nutritional support, this patient not only survived but over time demonstrated findings that were no longer consistent with brain death. Offered here is a …

It’S Not About You—It’S About Me, Robert F. Johnson

Peer Reviewed Articles

Hold Me, a film written and directed by Teace Snyder (2016) was distributed by email to palliative care clinicians and educators. The viewpoint presented here is not a review of this movie as a drama for entertainment. Rather it reviews the film to address the suggestion by its producers that it could serve as an adjunct to palliative care professional education.

Going Beyond ‘Do No Harm’: A Critical Annotation, Robert F. Johnson

Peer Reviewed Articles

The Op-Ed article in the New York Times (November 4th, 2016), “On Assisted Suicide, Going Beyond Do No Harm” by Haider Javed Warraich provided an articulate and timely plea for more widespread availability and application of physician-assisted dying, or “suicide”, as part of end-of-life medical care. While this profound intervention should be considered by physicians and others as an option for those able to express their wishes at the end-of-life, it must be considered in the context of the ethical principles appropriate for all health care interventions and recognized for its limited role in the overall approach to compassionate care …

Physiological And Biomechanical Responses Of Highly Trained Distance Runners To Lower-Body Positive Pressure Treadmill Running, Kyle Barnes, Jessica N. Janecke

Funded Articles

Background: As a way to train at faster running speeds, add training volume, prevent injury, or rehabilitate after an injury, lower-body positive pressure treadmills (LBPPT) have become increasingly commonplace among athletes. However, there are conflicting evidence and a paucity of data describing the physiological and biomechanical responses to LBPPT running in highly trained or elite caliber runners at the running speeds they habitually train at, which are considerably faster than those of recreational runners. Furthermore, data is lacking regarding female runners’ responses to LBPPT running. Therefore, this study was designed to evaluate the physiological and biomechanical responses to LBPPT …

Loss Of Displaced Starburst Amacrine Cells In A Rat Glaucoma Model, C A. Cooley-Themm, Q Ameel, David M. Linn, Cindy L. Linn

Peer Reviewed Articles

Acetylcholine (ACh) release by starburst amacrine cells (SACs) has been implicated in the production of retinal waves during early retinal development. Inhibitory gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) release by SACs is known to be involved in directional selectivity in the mature retina. However, the role of SAC release of ACh in the adult developed mammalian retina is not entirely understood. Some evidence suggests a neuroprotective effect on retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) acting through alpha7 nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (nAChRs) present in RGCs. If ACh released by SACs is neuroprotective to RGCs, it would follow that this cholinergic transmission might be compromised in glaucoma …

Prevention Of Glaucoma-Induced Retinal Ganglion Cell Loss Using Alpha7 Nachr Agonists, P J. Birkholz, C A. Gossman, M K. Webster, David M. Linn, Cindy L. Linn

Peer Reviewed Articles

In this study, the neuroprotective effect of various nicotinic alpha7 acetylcholine receptor agonists in an in-vivo model of glaucoma using adult Long Evans rats was analyzed. Glaucoma-like conditions were induced in the eyes of Long Evans rats after injection of hypertonic saline into episcleral veins to create scar tissue and increase the animal’s intraocular pressure. This procedure produced significant loss of retinal ganglion cells within one month and was associated with an increase of intraocular pressure. Using this model system, various alpha7 nicotinic acetylcholine receptor (a7 nAChR) agonists were applied at different doses as eye drops to the right eye …

Driving In Early-Stage Alzheimer’S Disease: An Integrative Review Of The Literature, Rebecca L. Davis, Jennifer M. Ohman

Peer Reviewed Articles

One of the most difficult decisions for individuals with Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is when to stop driving. Because driving is a fundamental activity linked to socialization, independent functioning, and wellbeing, making the decision to stop driving is not easy. Cognitive decline in older adults can lead to getting lost while driving, difficulty detecting and avoiding hazards, as well as increased errors while driving due to compromised judgment and difficulty in making decisions. The purpose of the current literature review was to synthesize evidence regarding how individuals with early-stage AD, their families, and providers make determinations about driving safety, interventions to …

Aldh1a1 Mrna Expression In Association With Prognosis Of Triple-Negative Breast Cancer, Yan Liu, Michelle Baglia, Ying Zheng, William Blot, Ping-Ping Bao, Hui Cai, Sarah Nechuta, Wei Zheng, Qiuyin Cai, Xiao Ou Shu

Peer Reviewed Articles

ALDH1 is a crucial element in the retinoic acid signaling pathway regulating the self-renewal and differentiation of normal stem cells, and may play an important role in cancer progression. However, research on ALDH1 gene expression and breast cancer prognosis has yielded conflicting results. We evaluated the association between tumor tissue ALDH1A1/ALDH1A3 mRNA expression and triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) prognosis in the Shanghai Breast Cancer Survival Study (SBCSS, N=463), Nashville Breast Health Study (NBHS, N=86), and Southern Community Cohort Study (SCCS, N=47). Gene expression was measured in RNA isolated from breast cancer tissues. In the SBCSS, higher ALDH1A1 mRNA level was …