Digital Commons Network^™

Analyzing Preventative Skin Care Practices Among Diabetic, Pre-Diabetic And Non-Diabetic Patients, Hetasvi A. Saraiya, Nils Brolis

Rowan-Virtua Research Day

Background and Hypothesis: Diabetes Mellitus refers to a chronic metabolic syndrome where patients have high blood glucose due to the body’s inability to produce adequate amounts of insulin. This hyperglycemia and other factors make diabetic patients more prone to a number of skin conditions such as dry skin, skin rashes, itchiness and bacterial or fungal infections. There are specific skin practices recommended to reduce the risk of these skin ailments including moisturizing regularly, avoiding hot showers, examining feet regularly for any changes, seeing a physician for major cuts/burns/infections amongst several others. However, there is no available literature that analyzes the …

The Use Of Glp-1 Agonists In Alcohol Use Disorder And Reducing Alcohol Consumption: A Scoping Review, Alec Birnbaum, Yashas Sattur, Akash Patel

Rowan-Virtua Research Day

Alcohol use disorder (AUD) reigns as one of the most pressing issues in the United States with high rates of complications, morbidity, and mortality. Recent studies have exhibited the potential for Glucagon-Like Peptide-1 (GLP-1) agonists to decrease alcohol cravings or alcohol-related adverse events through human and animal studies via reward and satiety signaling pathways. To investigate the ability of GLP-1 agonists to decrease alcohol use, alcohol cravings, and alcohol-related adverse events, this study conducted a scoping review of the current literature to uncover the potential benefit of GLP-1 agonists in patients with AUD. A systematic search across 6 databases was …

Case Report: Non-Ketotic Hyperglycemia Hemichorea-Hemiballismus In The Emergency Department, Veroneka Mikhail, James Espinosa, Alan Lucerna

Rowan-Virtua Research Day

Non-ketotic hyperglycemia hemichorea-hemiballismus (NH-HC), also known as diabetic striatopathy, is a rare condition characterized by glucose levels greater than 200 mg/dL and continuous, involuntary, and irregular large amplitude jerky movements localized predominantly to one side of the body called hemichorea-hemiballismus. While the differential diagnosis of irregular movements is vast, including seizures disorder, stroke, tumors, Tourette’s syndrome and rheumatic fever, clinicians should also consider diabetic striatopathy as a differential as it has very good prognosis and is easily treatable if diagnosed early. Here we discuss the case of a 72 year-old male with history of non-insulin dependent type 2 diabetes (T2DM), …

Case Report: Hyperkalemia Secondary To Acute Respiratory Acidosis, Chetna Thawani

Rowan-Virtua Research Day

Hyperkalemia is a potentially life-threatening electrolyte disturbance, commonly associated with renal dysfunction, medication effects, and acid-base imbalances. While metabolic acidosis is a well-known cause of transcellular potassium shifts, respiratory acidosis is a less recognized but significant contributor. This case report presents a 74-year-old female with hyperkalemia in the setting of acute respiratory acidosis secondary to impaired ventilation from rib fractures. This case highlights the importance of recognizing respiratory acidosis as a potential cause of hyperkalemia and tailoring management to address the underlying issue

The Impact Of Obesity On The Risk Of Venous Thromboembolism In Users Of Combined Oral Contraceptives: A Comprehensive Literature Review, Adeena Javed

Rowan-Virtua Research Day

Background: Combined oral contraceptives (COCs) are a widely used method of birth control in the U.S., particularly among women aged 15–44. COCs are known to increase the risk of venous thromboembolism (VTE). Obesity, which affects over 40% of adult women in the U.S., is also a recognized independent risk factor for VTE. However, the compounded risk posed by the simultaneous presence of obesity and COC use has not been thoroughly explored.

Hypothesis: Obesity significantly elevates the risk of VTE in women using COCs, demonstrating a synergistic interaction between these two factors.

Methods: A systematic literature review was conducted using PubMed, …

Case Report And Brief Review: Hypoglycemic Hemiplegia As A Stroke Mimic, Joel Collins Ii, James A. Espinosa, James Lee, Alan Lucerna

Rowan-Virtua Research Day

Here we present the case of a 47-year-old male with a history of diabetes mellitus (DM), who was brought to the emergency department with right sided hemiparesis and slurred speech. His blood sugar was 37 mg/dL. An intravenous line was established quickly, and the patient was administered intravenous dextrose. Within five minutes, his symptoms had significantly improved and by 10 minutes had resolved completely. A CT head and CT angiogram of the head and neck were within normal limits. Basic laboratory tests were within normal limits. The initial neurology service consult noted that his diagnosis was hypoglycemic hemiplegia. The patient …

What's In It For Me? The Benefits Of Breastfeeding For The Mother, Emily H. Mcmennamy

The Eleanor Mann School of Nursing Undergraduate Honors Theses

The purpose of this systematic review was to investigate both the short- and long-term benefits that breastfeeding has on maternal physical and mental health. The PICOT question was: In postpartum mothers, how does breastfeeding compared to formula and mixed feeding affect maternal physical and mental health, including outcomes in cardiovascular health, BMI, bleeding risk, and mental health both short term and long term? For this research, EBSCOhost and the National Library of Medicine databases were searched to find relevant studies and systematic reviews. Terms such as “breastfeeding and maternal health benefits,” “breastfeeding and postpartum health,” and “breastfeeding and weight loss” …

Examining The Relationship Between Sleep Habits And Caffeine Consumption, Daniel Calaff, Rachel Pruchno

Rowan-Virtua Research Day

Sleep is essential for cognitive function, mood regulation, immune defense, and metabolic health. Despite widespread caffeine use, its impact on sleep remains debated. It was initially hypothesized that higher caffeine consumption would correlate with greater sleep disturbances. This study explored the relationship between caffeine consumption and sleep habits in a general adult population using a Qualtrics-based self-report survey. Participants (n=93) reported average hours slept per night, time to fall asleep, and number of nighttime awakenings. Caffeine consumption was calculated based on reported intake and categorized into four dosage groups. Sleep outcomes were statistically compared using ANOVA, t-tests, and Pearson correlation. …

How Does Exposure To Early-Life Stressors Shape Eating Behaviors In Adulthood?, Surabhi Panda

Rowan-Virtua Research Day

The objective of this literature review is to explore the relationship between early-life stress and the development of disordered or dysregulated eating in adulthood. A search was conducted across PubMed, CINAHL, Embase, and PsycINFO databases. Results from each study were compared and synthesized. Twelve studies were analyzed including case reports, systematic reviews, cohort studies, and cross-sectional studies. Research indicates that childhood emotional abuse, often more prevalent than other forms of maltreatment, is a significant risk factor for eating pathology, with studies investigating psychological mediators such as anger, anxiety, and dissociation in this relationship. Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) and early life …

Maternal Health And Nutrition: Combating Maternal Mortality Through Proper Nutrition, Archna Mahendru, Yeisanai Cardona Torres, Maya Blayne Partee, Katarina Rusinak

Rowan-Virtua Research Day

Maternal mortality is an increasing concern in the United States. According to the WHO, from 2018-2022 the Maternal Mortality Rate (MMR) was 23.3 deaths per every 100,000 live births. New Jersey's MMR exceeded this average at 26 per 100,000 during the same period, with 91% of cases deemed preventable. While medical care plays a crucial role, research shows that non-medical determinants such as food insecurity, lack of nutritional education, limited access to transportation, and systemic barriers to health care contribute significantly to maternal health outcomes. Among these factors, proper nutrition plays a critical role before and during pregnancy, particularly in …

The Correlation Between A Methylenetetrahydrofolate Reductase Deficiency In Autism Spectrum Disorder Patients And The Presence Of Mental Health Disorders, Hinal Joshi, Andrea Iannuzzelli

Rowan-Virtua Research Day

• Currently little literature exists on connection between Methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR) deficiency and mental health disorders

• Reduced enzyme activity associated with certain MTHFR variants contributes to altered folate metabolism, elevated homocysteine levels, and disrupted DNA methylation, all of which are implicated in mental health disorders

• Identifying genetic risk factors could facilitate earlier diagnosis and intervention, leading to improved outcomes

• Relevant results could help reduce stigma and promote greater understanding of challenges faced by patients on the spectrum

Understanding Obesity Risk In Intellectual And Developmental Disabilities: Key Diagnoses And Factors, Elizabeth Kolaski, Wendy Aita, Jennifer Lecomte, Andrea Iannuzzelli

Rowan-Virtua Research Day

Background:

Individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) have obesity rates nearly twice those of the general population, leading to higher rates of diabetes, hypertension, sleep apnea, and reduced quality of life.¹ Genetic syndromes such as Prader-Willi syndrome (PWS) and conditions like autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and Down syndrome (DS) feature distinct mechanisms driving weight gain.² The burden of obesity in IDD exacerbates health disparities and strains caregivers and healthcare systems.³ Yet, comparative obesity prevalence and its drivers across specific IDD diagnoses remain poorly characterized.⁴

Hypothesis:

Obesity prevalence and underlying risk factors differ among IDD diagnoses …

Pre-Operative Clinical Characteristics Vary By Race In Patients With Obesity Undergoing Bariatric Surgery, Minjal Patel, Jasmine Park, Melissa Gott, David Kelter, Luke Perry, Ajay Menon, Paul Osterdahl, Casey Connors, Venkateswar Venkataraman, Nicole Stouffer, Gus J. Slotman

Rowan-Virtua Research Day

Background Data and Purpose: With the increasing prevalence of obesity, it impacts the practice of surgeons across various specialties. Non-bariatric surgeons are confronted with morbid obesity need clinical insight in managing medically fragile patients. The objective of this study is to identify pre-operative clinical variation by race among surgical patients with obesity.

Methods: Pre-operative data from 156,502 bariatric surgery patients were analyzed in four groups: Caucasian (C; n=125,492), African American (AA; n=18,226), Hispanic (H; n=12,405), and Asian (A; n=379). Data: Demographics, weight, BMI, and 33 obesity co-morbidities. Statistics: Chi-square and ANOVA.

Results: Pre-operative C/AA/H/A weight (KG) (130+-27/135+-28/127+-27/122+-26), BMI (46+-8/48+-9/47+-8/45+-7), % …

Effectiveness Of Exercise After Meals In Reducing Blood Sugar In People Who Are Overweight, Obese, Or Have Type 2 Diabetes: A Systematic Review And Meta-Analysis, Brian Fardman, Jie Kang, Nicholas Ratamess, Avery Faigenbaum, Jill Bush

Rowan-Virtua Research Day

Studies investigating the acute effect of postprandial exercise (PPE) on glucose responses exhibit significant heterogeneity in terms of participant demographic, exercise protocol, and exercise timing post-meal. As such, this study aimed to further analyze the existing literature on the impact of PPE on glycemic control in overweight individuals and individuals with obesity and type 2 diabetes (T2DM). A literature search was conducted through databases such as PubMed, CINAHL, and Google Scholar. Thirty-one original research studies that met the inclusion criteria were selected. A random-effect meta-analysis was performed to compare postprandial glucose area under the curve (AUC) and 24 h mean …

Effect Of Time-Restricted Feeding On Anthropometric, Metabolic, And Fitness Parameters: A Systematic Review, Brian Fardman, Jie Kang, Nicholas Ratamess, Avery Faigenbaum, Jill Bush, Noah Beller, Ariselle Vargas, Tyler Andriopoulos

Rowan-Virtua Research Day

Time restricted feeding (TRF) as a form of intermittent fasting (IF) has gained popularity because its ability to reduce body mass (BM) without an emphasis on caloric restriction. However, how this dietary protocol may affect health, fitness, and performance in a relatively healthy cohort remains less clear. The purpose of this article was to systematically review the current literature concerning the effect of TRF on anthropometric, metabolic, and fitness parameters in normal-weight adults and overweight and obese individuals. A systematic search of English literature was conducted through databases including PubMed, CINAHL, and Google Scholar. The search was facilitated by using …

Recognizing Pseudohypobicarbonatemia In Patients With Hypertriglyceridemia - A Case Report, Alisha Vincent, Mohamad Hammad, Brian Clayton

Rowan-Virtua Research Day

Pseudohypobicarbonatemia is a laboratory artifact in which severe hypertriglyceridemia interferes with enzymatic bicarbonate measurements, leading to falsely low levels that can mimic metabolic acidosis. We present a case of a patient with diabetes and hyperlipidemia who was initially found to have profound hypobicarbonatemia and an elevated anion gap, raising concerns for metabolic acidosis. However, arterial blood gas analysis revealed a normal acid-base status, prompting further investigation and identification of severe hypertriglyceridemia (>1100 mg/dL) as the underlying cause. This case highlights the diagnostic challenges posed by hypertriglyceridemia-induced lab errors and underscores the importance of confirming suspected metabolic acidosis with arterial …

The Repercussions Of Race-Based Egfr On The Morbidity & Mortality Of Black Children With Renal Disease, Angelina Siino

Rowan-Virtua Research Day

This study investigates the implications of race-based adjustments in estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) calculations on the health outcomes of Black children with renal disease. Historically, a race coefficient has been added to eGFR calculations for patients identified as Black, resulting in an artificial inflation of kidney function by approximately 16%. This inflation can delay the classification of chronic kidney disease (CKD), postpone eligibility for essential interventions like preemptive kidney transplantation, and prolong reliance on maintenance dialysis. Through a comprehensive literature review of peer-reviewed U.S. medical journal articles published between 2000 and 2023, this work explores how these clinical delays …

Cardiovascular Risk Factors In The Autism Spectrum Disorder Population, Christian C. Iannuzzelli, Andrea L. Iannuzzelli

Rowan-Virtua Research Day

The population of patients with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) have multiple risks and barriers that may make access to proper health care more difficult. After extensive research, some of these barriers may have been identified that pose greater risks to generating proper care for those with ASD. Some of these barriers include medical complexity, more sedentary lifestyles, poor food choices, as well as health comorbities. Some of these health comorbidities include hypertension, metabolic dysfunction, sleep apnea, and inflammation. This study aims to understand what barriers and risks for CVD are present in those with ASD.

Assessing The Impact Of The Covid-19 Pandemic On Health Literacy In Patients Presenting To A Student-Run Free Clinic, Sabah Iqbal, Kirsten Carlberg, Krisha S. Patel, Ashlyn Mcclelland, Sarah Marotta, Rebecca Moore

Rowan-Virtua Research Day

Background

Health literacy as defined by the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), refers to an individual’s ability to find, understand, and use health information and services1. This definition has evolved with the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic and increasing emphasis on preventative healthcare. We aimed to observe the impact of the pandemic on the health literacy of patients in a free community clinic run by medical students.

Hypothesis

This study aims to assess the effect of various demographic and socioeconomic factors and the COVID-19 pandemic on health literacy levels estimated by the NVS assessment in the patient population …

Screening And Prevention Of The Female Athlete Triad, Lia Summer Goldberg, Kate Whelihan

Rowan-Virtua Research Day

Background The Female Athlete Triad—a syndrome of low energy availability, menstrual dysfunction, and decreased bone mineral density—poses a significant risk to female athletes, particularly those in sports emphasizing leanness or endurance. Despite its potential to impair both performance and long-term health, the Triad remains frequently underdiagnosed due to stigma, nonspecific symptoms, and limited screening practices. This review investigates current strategies for screening and preventing the Triad, aiming to identify best practices and areas needing improvement.

Methods A literature review was conducted using PubMed, focusing on studies published after 2005. Keyword searches included “female athlete triad screening,” “prevention,” “education,” and “awareness.” …

Optimizing Endogenous Glp-1 Holistically: A Nursing Led Approach To Sustainable Weight Loss Without Glp-1 Agonist Use, Taylee A. Carscadden

Nursing | Student Research Posters

No abstract provided.

The Effect Of Cardiac Rehabilitation On Diastolic Heart Failure, Lucas Clouse

Doctoral Dissertations and Projects

The newest diagnosis approved for cardiac rehabilitation (CR) by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) was systolic heart failure with ejection fractions less than or equal to 35% in 2013. CMS did not approve diastolic heart failure as a diagnosis for CR as there has not been ample research done linking a possible benefit between the two. To date, limited research has been done regarding a CR’s resources (health education, exercise training, risk factor modification, meeting with dietitian) and its effects on diastolic heart failure. The purpose of this study is to evaluate if CR can improve quality …

Enhancing The Eden Alternative Model With Well Standards: A Case Study Analysis, Mariah Stoner

Architecture Masters of Science Program: Theses

This thesis investigates the potential for improving the Eden Alternative Model, a person-centered approach to elder care that emphasizes creating a homelike environment and meaningful relationships, using WELL Standards, a building certification system focused on enhancing human health and well-being through improvements in environmental quality. Through a mixed-methods approach involving quantitative data analysis and qualitative case studies, this research examines how WELL Standards, which cover aspects such as air quality, water quality, lighting, and thermal comfort, can improve environmental quality and resident satisfaction within the Eden Alternative Model. This research introduces a tailored approach to elder care by combining these …

Antiproliferative Effects Of Salvia On Breast Cancers., Allison C. Portaro

College of Arts & Sciences Senior Theses

Breast cancer is the most common cancer diagnosed in female adults, with 2.3 million new cases worldwide in 2020. Plants have been used in traditional medicine and are a potential source of pharmaceuticals. One example is the large Lamiaceae (mint) family. The Salvia genus, commonly known as the sages, is the largest genus in Lamiaceae with almost 900 known species. Salvia lyrata (lyre-leaved sage) has a history of Native American medicinal use to treat cancers and other ailments resulting in this plant being referred to as ‘cancer weed.’ Extracts were produced from the leaves of S. lyrata, S. lyrata …

Healthy Dietary Patterns’ Impact On Depressive Symptoms: A Meta-Analysis Of Randomized Controlled Trials, Angela Encardone

All Theses

As the search for innovative mental health treatments expands, dietary interventions have emerged as a promising approach for alleviating depressive symptoms. This thesis presents a meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) examining the efficacy of whole-of-diet nutritional interventions in reducing depression symptoms among adults. Grounded in Bronfenbrenner’s Bioecological Model and Engel’s Biopsychosocial Model, this study explores the intersection of biological, psychological, and social factors that influence mental health outcomes. A systematic review identified six eligible RCTs assessing the impact of healthy dietary patterns, including the Mediterranean diet and other plant-based interventions, on depression symptoms. A random-effects meta-analysis revealed a significant …

May 2025, Swosu Bulldog Wellness Committee

SWOSU BULLDOG WELLNESS

May is Skin Cancer Awareness Month

REMINDER - SWOSU Swimming Pool OPEN TO ALL SWOSU EMPLOYEES and their FAMILY! (see hours p.2)

May Day Crossword Puzzle

Newsletter brought to you by the Bulldog Wellness Committee

Rectosigmoid Intussusception Due To A Nonmalignant Etiology: An Extremely Rare Cause Of Acute Lower Gastrointestinal Bleeding In An Elderly Patient, Kashif Ali, Samra Sohail, Grecia Dominguez Rivera, Valeska Balderas

School of Medicine Publications

An intussusception at the rectosigmoid junction with acute gastrointestinal bleeding is exceedingly rare. We present a case of an 88-year-old man who presented in the emergency department with bilateral lower quadrant abdominal pain and frank rectal bleeding for 2 days. A computed tomography abdomen pelvis angiogram with contrast showed a target sign, and a flexible sigmoidoscopy showed congested bowel, ischemia, frank blood, and intussusception at the rectosigmoid junction. He underwent an exploratory laparotomy with the removal of the affected part. The pathology and the peritoneal fluid cytology results came out negative for dysplasia and malignancy.

Replication Of “Assessing The Student Nurses’ Knowledge Of Oral Health Care”, Heaven Mcnalty

Honors Theses

Oral health is an important part of overall health and well-being. In nursing care, maintaining good oral hygiene helps prevent infections, improves comfort, and supports nutrition especially in patients who are extremely sick, elderly, or unable to care for themselves. Nurses play a key role in assessing and promoting oral health as part of the daily care that they provide to patients. Even though oral health is important, it is often not emphasized enough in nursing education. Many nursing students may not get enough training or experience in this area, which can lead to gaps in their knowledge and confidence …

A Systematic Review Of Weight Loss Interventions Among Black Postpartum Women, Jhelma Velveder Perez

Honors Scholar Theses

Cardiovascular disease is a leading contributor to maternal mortality, which remains disproportionately high among Black women. Obesity and postpartum weight retention exacerbate cardiovascular disease risk and increase the likelihood of complications in future pregnancies. Weight loss during the postpartum period may reduce long-term chronic health risks and mortality for Black women. This systematic review aimed to understand the weight-related health needs of Black postpartum women by evaluating behavioral weight loss interventions within the first year after childbirth. A comprehensive search of the PubMed database identified 3 randomized controlled trials that met inclusion criteria. These studies evaluated home-based programs, mobile health …

Cardiovascular Effects Of Glp-1 Receptor Agonists In Non-Diabetic Adults With Obesity: A Systematic Literature Review, Mariam Abdeen

Rowan-Virtua Research Day

Background: Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is the leading cause of morbidity and mortality in individuals with obesity. GLP-1 receptor agonists, initially developed for glycemic control in diabetes, are now approved for weight loss in non-diabetic populations. Recent clinical trials suggest these agents may also offer direct cardiovascular benefits.

Objective: This literature review aims to evaluate the cardiovascular effects of GLP-1 receptor agonists, specifically semaglutide, liraglutide, and tirzepatide, in non-diabetic adults with overweight or obesity.

Methods: A systematic search was conducted in January 2025 using PubMed as the primary database, supplemented by Google Scholar and Embase. Clinical trials were selected based on …