Digital Commons Network^™

Does A “True Bovine Arch” Exist? Prenatal Diagnosis Of A Unique Arch Anomaly In A Neonate With Absent Ductus Venosus, Mohamed Aashiq Abdul Ghayum, Jenna Schermerhorn, Laura Kuzava, Sanket Shah, Anmol Goyal

Research Showcase

Background: 

The origin of all head and neck vessels from a single aortic root, “True Bovine Arch” , is an extremely rare arch anomaly that has been rarely reported in literature.  

Objectives/Goal: 

The origin of all head and neck vessels from a single aortic root is an extremely rare arch anomaly that has been seldom reported in literature with no documented prenatal identification. A “true bovine arch” refers to a single arterial trunk off the aortic arch that trifurcates into both subclavian arteries and a common bi-carotid trunk - mirroring the configuration found in cattle. 

Methods/Design: 

A 28-year-old G2P1 woman …

Trend In Outcomes From Protocol Driven Hydration Strategy Following Bariatric Surgery And Potential For Improvement, Efua H. Bolouvi Md, Nadeen Alturki Mbchb, Jieun Lee Md, Shawn St. Peter Md

Research Showcase

Background: Bariatric surgeries are safe and effective in treating severe obesity in adolescents. Adequate hydration is essential for recovery. This study evaluates the efficacy of our institutional oral hydration goal protocol as a criteria for discharge and associated patient outcomes.

Method: A retrospective study was conducted from 2018 to 2025 on adolescents who had laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy for severe obesity. Our institutional protocol adherence for discharge based on a goal of 64oz of Bariatric diet was evaluated. Patients who had sleeve gastrectomy in combination with another major intra-abdominal procedure were excluded. Analysis was performed using IMB SPSS with …

Evaluation And Treatment Of Pediatric Pre-Eruptive Intracoronal Resorption​, Sophia Rosen, Neena Patel, Amy Burleson, Jenna Sparks, Robin Onikul

Research Showcase

Abstract/introduction: Pre- eruptive intracoronal resorption (PEIR), also known as “pre-eruptive caries,” is a dental condition characterized by the resorption of dental tissue prior to the eruption of the tooth.¹ PIER is typically found adjacent to the dentin-enamel junction, within the occlusal dentin of the tooth.² PIER may be referred to as “occult” or hidden caries due to the presence of sound enamel and is often an incidental finding on routine radiographs.³ PEIR is often misinterpreted as traditional caries due to its radiographic appearance,³ however requires careful evaluation for determination of treatment and long term success. Case …

Impact Of Age On Growth, Readmission, And Malnutrition After Pediatric Feeding Tube Weaning, Minh H. Tran, Saiyara Baset, Lindsay R. Groh, Sarah T. Edwards, Kristina Nash, Amy Ricketts, Julianne Brogren, Ryan M. Thompson, Sarah Bullard, Rachel Graham, Janelle R. Noel-Macdonnell Phd, Lori A. Erickson, Dana Bakula

Research Showcase

Background:

Feeding tube dependence in medically complex children is associated with feeding aversion, caregiver burden and stress, and increased healthcare utilization. Feeding tube weaning is an essential component of care for children who are tube-fed. The literature indicates that tube weaning protocols are largely successful, and younger children have the highest rate of success. However, there are few long-term studies of how well children can sustain their growth and avoid adverse events like hospitalizations following tube weaning. It is critical to understand long term risk following tube wean and identify which patients may need additional monitoring and support following successful …

Human Metapneumovirus Infection Of The Central Nervous System: In Vitro And In Vivo Models, Gage Greening, Joanna Yuen, Rebecca Mclennan, Eric S. Geanes, Santosh Khanal, Marc L. Herman, Brittany Hauger, Daniel A. Louiselle, Todd Bradley

Research Showcase

Certain respiratory viruses exhibit neurotropism, allowing them to invade the central nervous system (CNS) and induce neuroinflammation. Neurotropic respiratory viruses can lead to a variety of symptoms including encephalitis, seizures, and acute flaccid paralysis, among others. Recent research also suggests that even in non-severe cases, long-term neurological sequelae can persist. Despite the known association of these neurotropic respiratory viruses with short- and long-term neurological manifestations, there are significant knowledge gaps regarding the basic mechanisms of neuropathogenesis that, if addressed, could provide a foundation for the development of prevention and treatment interventions. Previously, we established in vitro models of infection of …

The Intentional Inbox: Strategies For The Mindful Use Of Technology At Work, Joshua Miller

Staff Professional Development Week

CAPS’s Joshua Miller presents an interactive workshop designed to help Gallaudet staff consider how their focus and physical well-being are influenced by screens and technology, and vice versa. We will go through data/statistics regarding screen dependence and the chair-bound “health crisis.”

Through crowd polling/interaction, we will identify common, and often unconscious, tech habits - the “notification reflex,” “overuse,” etc - that drain our mental energy. We will explore potential interventions to achieve mindful (healthy) use of technology - digital/real-life boundaries, mico-breaks/self-care, perspective shifting/re-framing/reminders of “urgent or not,” etc.

The presentation/workshop concludes with an open discussion to share experiences, challenges, and …

Investigating Reactive Metabolite Burden Of Drugs Implicated In Adverse Drug Reactions, Priscilla Flores-Ascencio, Jennifer Goldman, Whitney M. Nolte, Robert T. Tessman, Nina K. Krbachian

Research Showcase

Background:

A commonly prescribed antibiotic, trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole (TMP-SMX), is associated with several idiosyncratic adverse drug reactions (IADRs) including severe cutaneous adverse reactions (SCAR), drug induced liver injury (DILI), and life threatening acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). Because the mechanism of these reactions is poorly understood, failure to prevent harmful drug reactions persists. The nature of the reactive metabolite, where it is formed, and what it binds are likely contributing to these tissue specific IADR phenotypes.  The chemical structure of a reactive metabolite is not always predictive of reactivity. Quantitative methods to measure drug and metabolite reactivity are necessary to establish which …

Development Of In Vitro Assays To Study Hla Risk Alleles For Tmp-Smx Induced Iadrs, Nina K. Krbachian, Priscilla Flores-Ascencio, Robert T. Tessman, Whitney M. Nolte, Jennifer Goldman

Research Showcase

Background: Trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole (TMP-SMX) is a commonly prescribed antibiotic that can cause life-threatening but rare idiosyncratic adverse drug reactions (IADRs). The only identified biomarker is certain human leukocyte antigen (HLA) risk alleles, such as B*07:02 and C*07:02 for acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). Additionally, B*14:01, B*35:01, and B*13:01 are known to cause tissue-specific reactions to TMP-SMX in certain populations. Other drugs have previously been shown to cause changes to peptides presented by HLAs, leading to T cell activation and immune responses. However, the link between IADR pathophysiology and HLA risk alleles for TMP-SMX or its metabolites is unknown.

Objectives/Goal: We aim …

Scleral Lens For Recurrent Corneal Ulcer In A Pediatric Patient With Blepharokeratoconjunctivitis, Hannah Walleck, Christina Twardowski

Research Showcase

Background: A patient with chronic blepharokeratoconjunctivitis (BKC) and resulting corneal scarring of the right eye presented for scleral contact lens fitting to aid with recurrent corneal ulcers. BKC is a chronic condition that begins with chalazia and blepharitis, leading to conjunctival hyperemia and corneal inflammation. BKC is considered a bilateral condition that can show asymmetry. The clinical signs can range from meibomian gland dysfunction and meibomitis to corneal infiltrates, vascularization, ulcers, and scarring.

Objectives/Goal: The patient had presented for recurrent BKC flare-ups that lead to repeat corneal ulcers. Previous treatment included prednisolone ophthalmic solution, erythromycin ointment, lid hygiene, warm compresses, …

An Exploration Of Productivity Measurement For Pediatric Inpatient Consultation-Liaison Psychology, Corinne Evans M.A., Casey Lawless Ph.D., Walker S. Mckinney Ph.D., Katherine Schwartzkopf Psyd, Marissa M. Dawson Psyd, Crystal Tracy M.S., Mallory Netz Ph.D., Carisa Parrish Ph.D.

Research Showcase

Background: There is an increasing need for accurate and efficient methods for measuring clinical productivity for psychologists in academic medical centers. Inpatient consultation-liaison (C/L) psychologists experience specific challenges with measuring productivity due to the scope of their job responsibilities and competing demands across patient care, teaching, mentorship/supervision, research, quality improvement, advocacy, and staff education and support. Existing productivity measurement systems, initially developed for medical physicians, are largely reliant on metrics related to billing and reimbursement, providing a poor fit for the work of C/L psychologists. Amid a national mental health crisis, the need for C/L psychologists to demonstrate their productivity …

Clinical Course Of A Previously Healthy Patient With Chronic Active Ebv Infection, Carina H. Perdew, Nikita S. Raje, Thao P. Le, Cody D. Shopper

Research Showcase

Background: Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) infects over 90% of individuals worldwide. Acute EBV infection results in lifelong latent infection, but rarely causes chronic active EBV (CAEBV) infection or immunodeficiency-associated B-cell lymphoproliferative disease. There is no standard treatment approach, making the diagnosis and management of CAEBV challenging.

Objectives/Goal: Upon completion of this session, our aim is for audience members be able to discuss a rare complication of EBV infections and to better formulate management approaches for this multifaceted condition.

Methods/Design: Case Report

Results: A 15-year-old female with a history of atopic dermatitis, headaches, and secondary amenorrhea was hospitalized for persistent tachycardia and …

Antibiotic-Pathogen Concordance In Pediatric Complicated Community-Acquired Pneumonia, Makenna Steger Md, Marina Dantas Md, Mscr, Jessica Markham Md, Msc, Berina Karisik Do, Smit Shah Md, Ms, Alaina Burns Pharmd

Research Showcase

Background: Community‑acquired pneumonia (CAP) remains the leading cause of morbidity and mortality in children aged 28 days to 5 years worldwide. A subset of patients develop complicated community-acquired pneumonia (cCAP)- defined as CAP with parapneumonic effusion, empyema, necrotizing pneumonia, or lung abscess.  These infections are associated with more severe illness, prolonged hospitalization, increased ICU utilization, invasive procedures, and broader antimicrobial exposure. Streptococcus pneumoniae, group A Streptococcus, and Staphylococcus aureus (both methicillin sensitive and methicillin resistant strains) are traditionally considered the most common bacterial pathogens in CAP. However, there is not comprehensive data on their prevalence in cCAP, as most sources …

Evaluation For Non-Accidental Trauma (Nat) And Bleeding Disorders In Infants Referred To Pediatric Hematology, Abbey Elsbernd, Shannon Carpenter, Lyndsey Hultman, James Anderst

Research Showcase

Background:

The most common presentation for both pediatric non-accidental trauma (NAT) and bleeding disorders is bruising. In non-mobile infants with bruising, NAT evaluation is recommended.

Objectives/Goal:

We aimed to assess complete evaluation for NAT in patients < 9 months of age presenting with bruising and/or bleeding to our pediatric hematology clinic, and frequency of diagnosis of NAT.

Methods/Design:

A single center retrospective chart review was performed on children < 9 months at time of evaluation referred to pediatric hematology from 1/1/2016 to 12/31/2025. Patients were eligible if their visit included ICD-10 diagnosis codes for bleeding and/or bruising, ICD-10 codes for bleeding disorders, ICD-10 codes for non-accidental trauma, or visit reason listed as bleeding and/or bruising. Patients were excluded if asymptomatic but seen due to family history, for follow-up from the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) or newborn nursery, or if they were presenting for another clinical reason. Demographics, symptoms, family history of bleeding disorders, bleeding disorder and/or NAT evaluation performed, and diagnoses of bleeding disorders and/or NAT were collected. NAT evaluation was deemed complete if the following were obtained: head imaging (computed tomography), skeletal survey, aspartate aminotransferase level (AST), and alanine aminotransferase level (ALT).

Results:

100 patients were identified, with 26 included. Most were excluded due to being asymptomatic with known family history or presenting for follow-up from the newborn nursery or NICU. 11 patients (42.3%) were diagnosed with NAT, and 7 patients (26.9%) were diagnosed with a bleeding disorder. 1 patient was diagnosed with both a …

A Case Of Rare Fetal Tachycardia, Tony Zunica, Maria Kiaffas, Hayley Hancock, Laura Schoeneberg, Emily Backes, Rita France, Zalie Landes

Research Showcase

Background:

Fetal ventricular tachycardia (VT) is an exceptionally rare diagnosis, comprising of 1-2% of fetal arrhythmias, and can precipitate fetal demise via heart failure, polyhydramnios, and nonimmune hydrops fetalis. We present a case of fetal ventricular tachycardia in a structurally normal heart associated with fetal cardiac dysfunction and atrioventricular valve insufficiency.

Case Description:

A 40-year-old G5P2 female was re-referred to fetal cardiology at 31 weeks gestational age (GA) due to concern of pathologic fetal tachycardia.  Family history was negative for cardiac disease or arrhythmias.  The fetus was initially evaluated by fetal echocardiography at 29 weeks GA due to maternal type …

High-Frequency And Conventional Ventilation In Vlbw Neonates During Interfacility Transport, Trevor Cabrera, Janelle R. Noel-Macdonnell Phd, Emily Mcnellis

Research Showcase

Background: Very low birth weight (VLBW) neonates (≤1500 grams) transported across neonatal facilities often require advanced respiratory support, including high-frequency ventilation (HFV). While HFV use in this setting has increased, data evaluating its safety and efficacy in the VLBW population remain limited. We hypothesized that HFV will provide a safe modality to transport sick VLBW infants.

Objectives: To present a comparative experience of safety and efficacy of HFV and CV in VLBW neonates during interfacility transport.

Methods: We retrospectively reviewed neonates ≤1500g who received invasive ventilation during interfacility transport by our transport team between January 2019 and December 2022. HFV …

Clonidine Dosing After Acute Pediatric Brain Injury, Bekah Spengler, Kim Hartman, Matt Mclaughlin

Research Showcase

Background: While numerous evidence-based neuropharmacologic treatments exist for managing acquired brain injury in adults, there is a lack of data on the use of medication in pediatric patients. One such medication is Clonidine, an alpha-2 agonist that acts centrally to decrease sympathetic outflow, brain edema, and agitation. There is limited literature on the indications and optimal dosing of Clonidine in pediatric brain injury.

Objectives/Goal: This study aims to explore the frequency of Clonidine use in pediatric patients with acute brain injury and to clarify the starting, therapeutic (maximum), and discharge doses.

Methods/Design: Retrospective chart review at a single pediatric tertiary …

The Impact Of Vanzacaftor/Tezacaftor/Deutivacaftor On Parent And Child Perceived Psychosocial Functioning In People With Cystic Fibrosis: A Single Center Experience, Ashley Severin, Stephanie Duehlmeyer, Ellen Meier, Mallory Netz

Research Showcase

Background:

(ETI) is a highly effective modulator therapy (HEMT) for children with cystic fibrosis (CwCF). CwCF who are currently prescribed ETI are eligible to transition to vanzacaftor/tezacaftor/deutivacaftor (VTD). While ETI is associated with improvement in health outcomes for most CwCF, there are emerging data regarding neuropsychiatric adverse events (NAEs). VTD is a once daily HEMT shown to be non-inferior to ETI with a similar safety profile, particularly concerning NAEs.

Objectives/Goal:

The objective of this study was to assess the impact of VTD on parent and child perceived psychosocial functioning and sleep for CwCF.

Methods/Design:

The Pediatric Symptom Checklist (PSC) is …

Microsoft 365+ Copilot, Adrian Rivera

Staff Professional Development Week

GTS’s Adrian Rivera explains how Microsoft 365 combined with Copilot gives Gallaudet staff powerful tools to work smarter, save time, and improve productivity across daily tasks. This workshop introduces how Copilot enhances familiar Microsoft 365 apps by using AI to simplify work and help staff stay organized.

Staff can also use Copilot to streamline workflows across Microsoft 365—organizing files, improving collaboration, and helping employees stay updated on new features and system changes. Copilot supports accessibility by offering clear explanations, step‐by‐step guidance, and tools that reduce manual work, making technology easier for all experience levels.

Accessible Publishing Assistant Position Description, Emily Hills

The Piedmont Publishing Symposium

No abstract provided.

Alternative Text Guidelines For Authors, Emily Hills

The Piedmont Publishing Symposium

No abstract provided.

Accessibility In Digital Publications, Ana Bichanich, Emily Hills, Corey Parson, Michelle Wallen

The Piedmont Publishing Symposium

Presented at the 2026 Piedmont Publishing Symposium.

May 20-21, 2026

Wofford University

A Quick Guide To Writing Image Descriptions For Comics And Graphic Novels, Emily Hills

The Piedmont Publishing Symposium

No abstract provided.

Efficacy And Safety Of Subcutaneous Vs. Intravenous Anti-Tnf Agents In Ulcerative Colitis: A Systematic Review And Meta-Analysis, Chimezirim Ezeano Md, Mph, Meklit Hunde Md, Ekow Essien Md

Scientific Day

Background/Significance:

Subcutaneous (SC) and intravenous (IV) anti–tumor necrosis factor (anti-TNF) therapies are established treatments for moderate-to-severe ulcerative colitis (UC). While both routes are effective, direct comparative data are limited due to few head-to-head trials. Differences in pharmacokinetics, administration burden, and patient preference may influence outcomes. We sought to compare the efficacy and safety of SC versus IV anti-TNF agents in inducing and maintaining clinical remission in adults with UC.

Purpose:

To evaluate whether SC anti-TNF therapy is comparable to IV anti-TNF therapy in achieving clinical remission and maintaining safety in moderate-to-severe UC.

Methods:

We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis …

Scientific Day 2026 List Of Events, Advocate Health - Midwest

Scientific Day

No abstract provided.

Retrospective Evaluation Of Steroid Utilization For Pneumonia Treatment In The Critically Ill Population, Cassandra Caringella Pharmd, Amina George Pharmd, Jill Argotsinger Pharmd

Scientific Day

Background/Significance:

Severe community-acquired pneumonia (CAP) is associated with significant morbidity and mortality in critically ill patients. Adjunctive corticosteroid therapy remains controversial. IDSA guidelines recommend routine steroid use in severe CAP, while SCCM guidelines support corticosteroids based on the recent landmark trial, CAPE COD.

Purpose:

This study evaluated the effect of adjunctive steroid therapy versus no steroid therapy on clinical outcomes in patients admitted to the intensive care unit (ICU) with severe CAP and real-world adherence to guideline endorsed steroid regimens. Risk factors associated with clinical failure were also assessed.

Methods:

We conducted a multi-center retrospective evaluation of adults ≥18 years …

Patient And Provider Perceived Barriers To Completion Of Breast And Colorectal Cancer Screening Among Spanish-Speaking Patients, Alexa Figueroa Baiges Md, Mph, Kayla Flores Md, Dawn Wankowski Ms, Manuel Lamptey Ms

Scientific Day

Background/Significance:

Limited studies have shown that Latino/Hispanic populations have disproportionately low breast and colorectal cancer screening rates in the United States. The role of language barriers on these disparities remains understudied. This project evaluated patient and provider-perceived barriers to breast and colorectal cancer (CRC) screening among Spanish-speaking patients.

Purpose:

Given that 16% of the Milwaukee population is Spanish speaking, this project aimed to identify barriers to cancer screening among Spanish-speaking patients receiving primary care at Aurora Healthcare clinics, to inform strategies to improve screening equity.

Methods:

A cross-sectional survey project was conducted among Spanish-speaking patients due for breast or colorectal …

When Stress Cardiomyopathy Meets Iron Deficiency: A Retrospective Cohort Study, Emmanuel Olumuyide Md, Alfredo Toll Md, Lukan Abdulraheem Md

Scientific Day

Background/Significance:

Iron-deficiency anemia (IDA) commonly complicates cardiovascular disease, but its association with outcomes in stress cardiomyopathy (SC) is not well defined.

Purpose:

We examined whether IDA in SC is associated with higher in-hospital mortality and greater resource utilization.

Methods:

Using the National Inpatient Sample (2016–2022), we identified adult SC hospitalizations and stratified admissions by IDA status. Survey-weighted multivariable logistic regression evaluated the association of IDA with in-hospital mortality (primary outcome).Key secondary outcomes—cardiogenic shock (CS), mechanical circulatory support (MCS), acute kidney injury (AKI), vasopressor use, length of stay (LOS), and total hospital charges (THC)—adjusting for demographics, comorbidities, and hospital characteristics.

Results: …

Spark (Seizure Plan For Action And Readiness In Kids): Improving Seizure Action Plan Completion For Hospitalized Children Using Quality Improvement Methodology, Lauren Amendola Do, Faap, Jennifer W. Glusman Do, Mat, Faap, Sheena Mckenzie Md, Mba, Faap, Kayla Howard Do, Radhwa Ramadan Md, Loredana Huma Phd, Acrp-Cp, Usha Appalaneni Md

Scientific Day

Background/Significance:

A Seizure Action Plan (SAP) provides individualized seizure management instructions, including medication administration and emergency protocols. SAPs are inconsistently completed at Advocate Children’s Hospital – Oak Lawn (ACH-OL) leading to missed opportunities for patient/caregiver education and potential safety risks during care transitions.

Purpose:

Using quality improvement (QI) methodology, we aimed to improve the SAP completion rate for patients admitted to ACH-OL with seizure from 13% to 75% between 9/1/2025-12/31/2025.

Methods:

English and Spanish speaking patients 0–18 years admitted to ACH-OL with seizure-related diagnoses (identified by ICD-10 codes) and discharged from a general pediatric service between 9/1/25- 12/31/25 were included. …

Improving Integration Of Intake And Output Into Patient Care For Hospitalized Pediatric Patients, Seetal Mishra Md, Sheena Mckenzie Md, Mba, Faap, Svetlana Kravtchenko Md, Jessica Panice Msn, Aprn, Pcns-Bc, Aprn, Jessica Dukats Msn, Rn, Cpn, Danielle Prate Msn, Rn, Cpn, Joel Anderson Mph

Scientific Day

Background/Significance:

Lack of a universally accepted definition of strict vs standard intake and output (Ia&nO) has led to variability in documentation and orders across the pediatric hospital medicine (PHM) team. A serious safety event (SE) occurred when severe dehydration in an infant was not recognized, resulting in hypovolemic shock. Chart review showed minimal output documentation and failure to recognize I&O imbalance.

Purpose:

We aimed to decrease the I&O SE rate by 10% over 2 years by improving the integration of I&O into the clinical care of general pediatric patients at two campuses of Advocate Children’s Hospital.

Methods:

A multidisciplinary team …

Kidney Biopsy Adequacy Analysis And Improvement Strategies, Rosemary Kallarackel Do, Serena Thomas Bs, Abraham Thomas Md

Scientific Day

Background/Significance:

Kidney biopsy remains the gold standard for diagnosis and management of patients with medical kidney diseases. Recent data suggest an increasing incidence of inadequate kidney biopsy samples in the United States. The Kidney Disease Improving Global Outcomes (KDIGO) guidelines recommend that an adequate kidney biopsy specimen should contain at least 8 glomeruli (KDIGO Glomerular Diseases Work Group, 2021).

Purpose:

Improving kidney biopsy adequacy is essential to ensure accurate diagnosis, reduce repeat procedures, and optimize outcomes. Optimizing procedural techniques targeting the outer renal cortex and selecting larger-gauge needles—has been shown to improve tissue adequacy. Standardizing biopsy protocols, enhancing operator training, …