Digital Commons Network^™

Ginsenoside-Based Theranostic Agents For Alzheimer's Disease: Implications For Brain Penetration, Cellular Uptake, And Anti-Aging Effects, Hak Soo Choi

Oxford ICSB

Red ginseng and its bioactive constituents, ginsenosides, have long been associated with neuroprotection and anti-aging effects, yet their limited ability to cross the blood-brain barrier (BBB) and poorly characterized biodistribution have hindered therapeutic translation. To address this, we developed a library of “ginsenoprobes” by conjugating major red ginseng components (Rg1, Rg3, Rb1, Rh2, Rk1, Rg5) and red ginseng extract (RGE) to a zwitterionic near-infrared (NIR) fluorophore (ZW800-1C), enabling real-time tracking of their fate in vitro and in vivo. All ginsenoprobes were purified to >95% homogeneity via preparative HPLC and rigorously characterized for optical properties, including molar extinction coefficients and dye-to-ginsenoside …

A Comparison Of Muscle Activation Patterns Between Chronic Ankle Instability And Copers Among People With A History Of A Lateral Ankle Sprain: A Critically Appraised Topic, Holly Hudson, Mirannda Wotring

Liberty University Research Week

Context: Lateral ankle sprains (LAS) are a common injury among both the general and athletic populations. Often this injury leads to chronic ankle instability (CAI) or, in some cases, a copers ankle. Copers are defined as individuals with a history of at least 1 LAS that occurred greater than 12 months ago and do not report signs of disability and/or experience episodes of ankle instability since their last ankle injury. Limited research exists to explain the differences between CAI and copers. The focused clinical question is: Do muscle activation patterns differ between individuals with CAI and those classified as copers? …

The Effect Of Myofascial Manipulation On Shoulder Rom In Postoperative Breast Cancer Patients, Maile Kaahanui, Erin Krismanits

Liberty University Research Week

Focused Clinical Question: Myofascial dysfunction can hinder daily quality of life within post operational patients, especially within post operational breast cancer patients. Myofascial manipulation has been used as an intervention for ROM in other pathologies and could be beneficial for increasing ROM post-operatively. In post-operative breast cancer patients, what effect does myofascial manipulation have on shoulder ROM?

Methods: A literature search was conducted using electronic research databases (PubMed, MEDLINE, SPORTSDiscus, CINAHL, and Jerry Falwell Library) to identify randomized control trials published within the last 10 years that include studies with myofascial manipulation as an intervention and analyzed shoulder range of …

Do Omega-3 Supplements Reduce Pain And Symptom Severity In Primary Dysmenorrhea, Kristen Werner

Liberty University Research Week

Background: Primary Dysmenorrhea is a gynecological condition that affects many women worldwide. It is characterized by painful menstrual cramping and can result in decreased quality of life. Omega 3 fatty acid supplements have been proposed as an alternative treatment method to reduce severity of dysmenorrhea.

Methods: The Prisma method was used to conduct an integrative literature review of Pub Med, EBSCO, and Google Scholar Databases.

Results: Omega 3 fatty acid supplementation has been shown to reduce dysmenorrhea pain and severity.

Conclusions: Omega 3 supplementation is a viable alternative to conventional treatments methods for dysmenorrhea. This is ideal for women who …

Hidden Scars: A Scoping Review Of Violence-Related Mental Health Disorders In Adolescents, Rachel Dibal Simon Karu

Liberty University Research Week

Background: Limited data exist on the mental health of adolescents and how this population is uniquely affected by violence, particularly where treatment is not sought or accessible. Using a scoping review, this study aims to examine violence-related mental health disorders in adolescents.

Design: The PRISMA Extension for Scoping Reviews was used as a guideline for reporting. Searches were conducted on online databases to identify peer-reviewed papers published from 2020 to January 2026. Twenty-three publications on adolescents in Asia, Europe, Africa, and America were identified. The studies contained keywords such as community violence, conflict, adolescents, and mental health. The range in …

Who Delivers Care-And Does It Matter? Patient Satisfaction With Task-Shifted Mental Health Services., Perseverance Nothando Moyo, Benson Varghese, Chelsea Mazonde, Fadzai Nyarugwe, Ifeoluwanimi Shobayo, Oluwatosin Marylyn Oduneye, Tahirou Diallo

Liberty University Research Week

Background: Global mental health systems face severe workforce shortages and structural inequalities, leaving over one billion people without access to adequate care. Task-shifting, which involves training non-specialist providers such as community health workers and lay counselors to deliver mental health services, has been proposed as a scalable strategy to expand access to care. Although research has demonstrated the clinical effectiveness of task-shifted mental health interventions, less attention has been given to understanding patient satisfaction and experiences of care within these service models. Objective: To synthesize global literature examining patient satisfaction with task-shifted mental health services delivered by non-specialist providers. Methods: …

High Intensity Laser Therapy For Shoulder Tendinopathies: A Critically Appraised Topic, Rhayl Danfer Gray

Liberty University Research Week

Context: Rotator cuff tendinopathy, characterized by tendon-related pain, weakness, and decreased range of motion (ROM), accounts for more than 50% of chronic shoulder disease cases. While traditional treatments include physical therapy and ultrasound, high-power laser therapy has emerged as a modality that utilizes heat to increase local vasodilation and microcirculation, potentially decreasing pain and inflammatory biomarkers. This Critically Appraised Topic (CAT) aims to determine if high-intensity laser therapy effectively reduces pain and improves ROM in adults with shoulder tendinopathies.

Methods: A computerized search of Google Scholar, MEDLINE Ultimate, and PubMed was conducted in January and February 2026. Search terms included …

Preparation A Redox Auxiliary Appended Nitrosobenzene, Michael Polito, Austin Bennett

Liberty University Research Week

Nitrosobenzenes (NBs) are benzene structures containing a nitroso functional group and are observed to be both monomer and E/Z dimer. NB is capable of dimerizing into azodioxides, but dimerization is generally limited to NBs with electron withdrawing groups (EWG). The EWG pulls electrons towards itself, reducing NBs electron density. This reduces resonance through the NB, disfavoring the formation of a quinoidal structure, which inhibits dimerization. This reduced electron density increases the potential for dynamic covalent bonding (DCB), leading to dimerization. However, NBs with electron donating groups (EDG) do form quinoidal structures (through resonance). This quinoidal form prevents DCB, which ultimately …

Campus Green Space, Air Quality, And Mental Health Among College Students, Ifeoluwanimi Shobayo, Benson Varghese, Chelsea Mazonde, Fadzai Nyarugwe, Melissa Lartey, Tahirou Diallo

Liberty University Research Week

Introduction/Background: Mental health disorders, including anxiety and depression, are increasingly prevalent among college students. While campus interventions often focus on individual-level services, environmental determinants of mental health receive less attention. Ambient air pollution, particularly fine particulate matter (PM2.5) and nitrogen dioxide (NO2), has been associated with adverse psychological outcomes. In contrast, exposure to green space has been linked to improved well-being and reduced stress. Emerging evidence suggests that greenness may buffer the adverse mental health effects of air pollution. This study aims to synthesize current evidence and propose a theoretical framework linking campus green space, air quality, and student mental …

C. Diff: The Failures Of Long-Term Care Facilities, Ethan Jerome, John Meade, Owen Newman

Liberty University Research Week

Background: Clostridioides difficile (C. diff) is responsible for 500,000 infections each year, with many more asymptomatic carriers in health care settings.1 The impact of C. diff within long-term care facilities (LTCF) is crucial, as those above the age of 65 are considered at risk for acquiring a C. diff infection (CDI).2 Understanding why there is still a high prevalence of C. diff. infections within long-term care facilities is crucial to protect the lives of those who may be at risk of exposure or death from a CDI. Aim: The study aimed to determine what is responsible for the failure to …

A Patient-Centered Framework For Overcoming Barriers In Tuberculosis Care, Owen Newman, Ethan Jerome, John Meade

Liberty University Research Week

Tuberculosis (TB) remains the world’s deadliest infectious disease, yet it is both preventable and curable. The disease disproportionately affects populations living in poverty, with significant global impact:

1.23 million deaths in 20241

10.7 million new infections globally1

80%+ of cases in low- and middle-income countries1

~50% of TB households face costs >20% of income1,2

This study argues that TB persists due to social determinants, such as poverty, malnutrition, and stigma, rather than medical limitations alone. We propose a three-domain framework that maps where standard medical care fails the individual: systemic infrastructure, economic burden, and psychosocial isolation. By addressing these three …

Acl Injury Incidence On Artificial Turf Versus Natural Grass In Elite Male Football Players: A Critically Appraised Topic, Ethan Austell

Liberty University Research Week

Context: Artificial turf has been shown to be controversial despite being a cost-effective alternative to natural grass because of the potential risks it has on athletes’ lower extremity (LE) injury, specifically the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL). Elite male football players were chosen as the population of choice to determine the risk of ACL injury incidence on artificial turf compared to natural grass. The purpose of this critically appraised topic is to appraise the best available literature to identify the impact of artificial turf on knee injury rate in male elite football players.

Methods: A computerized search strategy was done from …

The Power Of Cult Rhetoric, Daniel Murphy

Liberty University Research Week

What moves individuals to leave families, sell businesses, and reconstruct their identities in devotion to a charismatic leader? This study explores the communicative movement at the heart of cult recruitment, persuasion, and retention. Grounded in social identity theory, this qualitative phenomenological research investigates how cult leaders strategically mobilize identity, language, and belonging to attract and sustain followers.

Existing literature that applies social identity theory to persuasive language will be examined, alongside documentary and textual analysis, to understand how individuals interpret and internalize these communicative strategies. Drawing from existing literature and rhetorical analysis of leaders such as Marshall Applewhite, Warren Jeffs, …

Helmet Design Advancements Impacting Head Injuries In The Nfl, Lucas Slear, Cole Swiader, Jackson Katona, Ryan Valliere

Liberty University Research Week

This research study will investigate how helmet designs in the National Football League have changed in response to concussion concerns and player safety. Development of soft-shell helmet technology (Guardian Caps) and advancements in the padding inside of NFL helmets have caused concussion numbers to decrease and have caused head injuries to be less severe in the NFL over the last 25 years. The severity of these head injuries can be seen in recovery time for NFL players after sustaining a concussion. Our study aims to address the question: “How have advancements helmet design and engineering in the NFL impacted the …

From Exposure To Detection: Health System Barriers To Diagnosing Asbestos-Related Diseases In Developing Countries, Matthew-Riece Castanares, Luke Montgomery

Liberty University Research Week

No abstract provided.

Methylenetetrahydrofolate Reductase Gene Mutation, Callie Messick, Brooke Newman, Grace Becraft, Kenai Alexander

Liberty University Research Week

Methylenetetrahydrofolate Reductase Gene Mutation Forty to fifty percent of the population have a methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR) polymorphism (CDC, 2014). The MTHFR gene encodes an enzyme that metabolizes folate, an essential substance needed for DNA methylation. Specific blood testing identifying MTHFR genetic polymorphisms is the most accurate for mutation detection. MTHFR has a wide range of involvement in our health including pregnancy and fertility, cardiovascular health, and mental health. Folate deficiency is linked with in-utero complications like congenital heart defects, neural tube defects, cleft lip, cleft palate, multiple psychiatric diseases, and cancer (Vidmar et al., 2020). Folic acid is maintained at …

Energy Drinks: Outcome In Undergraduate College Students, Vaden Sanders

Liberty University Research Week

Background: Energy drinks (ED) are beverages designed to enhance alertness and performance (Chu et al., 2022). They are popular among university students for use in academics and for social reasons, yet the concentration of caffeine and sugar in EDs pose significant health risks. EDs are popular globally and it is a multibillion-dollar industry (Alsunni, 2015). Methods: A literature review of 27 articles fitting the inclusion criteria was performed and analyzed thematically. Results: The research showed serious health risks from ED use, including cardiac arrhythmias, neurological and behavioral changes, and other health issues, including a few deaths (Costantino et.al., 2023). Conclusions: …

Restoring The Glymphatic Pump: 40 Hz Gamma Entrainment As A Rescue For Nocturnal Neuro-Metabolic Damage, John Meade, Ethan Jerome, Owen Newman

Liberty University Research Week

The human brain is a high-energy organ that produces significant metabolic waste throughout the day. However, unlike the rest of the body, the brain lacks a traditional lymphatic system to drain this waste. Instead, it relies on a glymphatic system: a specialized microscopic plumbing network that uses cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) to wash the spaces between the brain cells during sleep (see figure 1).1 At the heart of this system are aquaporins (specifically AQP4), which are specialized protein channels that allow the passage of water (see figure 2). With respect to the glymphatic system, they are located on the feet of …

Assessing The Relationship Between 60-Second Push-Up Performance And 1-Rep-Max Bench Press, Brennen Bargesser

Liberty University Research Week

INTRODUCTION: The push-up test has been widely used in populations with low-training age and military performance for muscular endurance testing. Comparatively, 1-rep-max (1RM) bench press testing has been used to determine maximal strength in resistance training settings across ages and disciplines. However, there is no current literature assessing the relationship between the 60-second AMRAP (as many reps as possible) push-up test and the 1RM bench press, or the practical application of utilizing the push-up test as a maximum strength testing method. PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to examine the relationship between a 60-second AMRAP push-up test and a …

Biological And Hormonal Influences On Depression Among Women Compared To Men, Grace Steiner, Audrey Wrinkle, Chloe Dudgeon, Julia Stamp, Kathryn Dennis, Marissa Wojcik, Meghan Dayton, Meilin Loerop

Liberty University Research Week

This research aims to investigate various factors influencing the mechanisms of depression manifestation in men and women as it relates to biological and hormonal factors. Individuals diagnosed with major depressive disorder (MDD), according to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (5th ed.; American Psychiatric Association, 2013), experience a depressed mood or a loss of interest or pleasure lasting for a minimum of 2 weeks. Depression and anxiety are twice as prevalent among women compared to men (Kundakovic & Rocks, 2022), although the underlying mechanisms and biological factors remain unknown. We aim to address the research question: “How do …

The Role Of Aerobic Exercise In Reducing Post-Injury Symptoms Among Adolescents With Brain Injury: A Critically Appraised Topic, Brandon Walker, Austin Snow

Liberty University Research Week

Clinical Scenario: Historically, concussion management has emphasized inactivity or restricted aerobic activity for athletes recovering from sports-related concussions. Emerging evidence, however, suggests that incorporating controlled aerobic exercise during rehabilitation may facilitate recovery and reduce the persistence of post-concussion symptoms. Focused Clinical Question: In adolescents with sports-related concussions, does the implementation of aerobic exercise facilitate recovery and reduce the risk of persistent post-injury symptoms? Summary of Key Findings: The studies discussed in this Critically Appraised Topic (CAT) consistently demonstrate that sub-symptom threshold aerobic exercise is both safe and beneficial for adolescent athletes recovering from acute or persistent sport-related concussions. This training …

Reducing Fear Through Meaning: A Theoretical Exploration Of Structured Spiritual Conversations In Pediatric Chronic And Life-Limiting Illness, Julia Stamp

Liberty University Research Week

Fear is a significant yet frequently under-addressed experience among pediatric patients with chronic or life-limiting illnesses, influencing emotional well-being and overall quality of life. This fear is frequently shaped by uncertainty, loss of control, and difficulty processing illness-related life experiences. Spirituality, defined as the way individuals seek meaning, purpose, and connection, has been increasingly recognized as an essential component of holistic pediatric care. These connections have been supported by research demonstrating that higher levels of spiritual well-being are associated with improved emotional functioning, increased hope, and stronger coping mechanisms in children with serious illness (Juškauskiene et al., 2023). Recent research …

Bridging The Gap In Adolescent And Young Adult Sexual Health Education, Claire Rau, Anjali Jacob, Cassidy Harris, Michael Ago Tetteh

Liberty University Research Week

This research addresses the critical need for improved sexual health education for adolescents and young adults, prompted by current STI and pregnancy data in Virginia. Following PRISMA guidelines, this systematic review evaluated existing evidence-based, relationship-skills-focused sexual health interventions. The findings indicate that while current programs effectively target risk reduction and pregnancy prevention, they often lack the integration of a Biblical worldview and sufficient focus on comprehensive relational development alongside sexual health knowledge. Consequently, this project proposes adapting the Love Notes program and developing the Digging Deep curriculum to better bridge these gaps.

Epidemiology And Sexual Transmission Of Mpox In Non-Msm Populations: A Systematic Review Proposal (2022-2025), Ifeoluwanimi Shobayo, Ashlan Killeen, Chelsea Mazonde, Eunice Onwuka, Michael Ago Tetteh, Prince Osei Sarpong, Rachel Williams

Liberty University Research Week

Introduction: Mpox epidemiology during the 2022–2025 global outbreaks has been extensively characterized within men who have sex with men (MSM) networks. However, transmission dynamics among non-MSM populations including heterosexual men, women, children, and mixed-population groups remain insufficiently described. This gap limits comprehensive public health understanding and response. This study aims to: (1) identify exposures and transmission routes among non-MSM populations, (2) describe demographic characteristics, clinical presentations, and outcomes, and (3) identify evidence gaps to inform preparedness strategies.

Methods: This systematic review will follow PRISMA-P guidelines. A comprehensive literature search will be conducted across PubMed/MEDLINE, Embase, Scopus, Web of Science, and …

Bridging The Digital Divide In Rural America: How 2026–2030 Digital Health Policies, Perseverance Nothando Moyo

Liberty University Research Week

Background: Since the COVID-19 pandemic, U.S. digital health policies have evolved from temporary emergency measures into permanent infrastructure reshaping healthcare delivery. Rural and underserved communities (~46 million Americans) face persistent access disparities, exacerbated by a projected 23% decline in rural physicians by 2030. Major federal investments include Medicare telehealth flexibilities extended through 2027, DEA telemedicine prescribing through 2026, and the $50 billion Rural Health Transformation Program (RHTP, 2026–2030). This study examines the impact of these policies on healthcare access and patient engagement in rural and underserved areas during 2026–2030.

Methods: Policy analysis and narrative review of the U.S. digital health …

Youth Sport Specialization And Overuse Injury Risk Among Athletes Ages 8–14: A Quantitative Comparative Study, Brian Anderson, Austin Lay, Cameron Roark, Colsen Debold, Walker Mooney

Liberty University Research Week

This research paper examines the relationship between youth sport specialization and injury risk among athletes ages 8-14. The study specifically investigates whether athletes in this age range who participate in a single sport year-round minimum 8 months experience higher rates of overuse and season ending injuries compared to athletes who play multiple sports year-round. Early specialization in sport has become increasingly common as families pursue elite competition and scholarship opportunities. However, concerns have grown regarding repetitive stress and overuse injuries in young athletes whose bodies are still developing. The purpose of this study is to determine if there is a …

Effects Of Hippotherapy On Motor Control In Children With Cerebral Palsy (Cp): A Critically Appraised Topic, Mckenna Coots, Katrina Myers, Lillian Cooper

Liberty University Research Week

Clinical Scenario: Cerebral Palsy has impacted a wide variety of individuals, especially children in their motor control, movement, and physical functioning. Hippotherapy has been used to improve the activities of daily living in diverse conditions and physical limitations. Specifically, studies have found a positive effect on cerebral palsy patients with this form of therapy in gait and motor function. Clinical Question: In children with cerebral palsy, was hippotherapy effective in improving motor control required for activities of daily living?

Summary of Key Findings: The authors of four high quality articles found that hippotherapy is an effective treatment for children diagnosed …

Instagram, Tiktok, And Athlete Identity: Exploring Social Comparison In Subjectively Judged Youth Sports, Jenna Moffat, Brooklyn Woodard, Danner Allen, Greta Snukis, Kalie Orefice

Liberty University Research Week

This study aims to examine the effects of social media platforms, Instagram and TikTok, on the mental health of adolescent athletes who are in subjective sports. Many athletes look at other athletes' performances on social media or scroll on Instagram or TikTok without realizing the harm that it can cause to their mental health and individual performance. When referring to mental health, athletes are specifically being asked about anxiety and depression, and if they notice an increase in these mental health symptoms or struggle with comparison after looking at these platforms. The research question is: How does comparison negatively impact …

Disaster Relief Integration And Public Funding Allocation In Professional Sports Venues: A Comparative Analysis, Jayden Jackson, Andrew Holzapfel, Emma Cromer, Madison Yeager, Tyler Ondrea

Liberty University Research Week

There is a documented, ever-rising cost associated with the construction and maintenance of professional sport stadiums across the United States, especially in the southern states. While the public subsidies that support these stadiums remain highly debated among policymakers, taxpayers, economists, and community stakeholders, many facilities serve as mission-ready, high-utility community hubs during public disasters such as hurricanes, floods, and other large-scale emergencies. This study investigates whether a connection exists between a venue’s disaster relief utility and the total public subsidy it receives post-disaster over a defined period of time. Grounded in Social Exchange Theory, the study aims to determine if …

The Effect Of Repetitive Head Impact Exposure On The Risk Of Developing Mental Health Conditions In Contact Sport Athletes: A Critically Appraised Topic, Jamie Lawrence

Liberty University Research Week

Context: Repetitive Head Impact (RHI) exposure is a frequent consequence of participating in contact sports. Often associated with Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI) and other neurocognitive diseases, it has been suggested that RHI can lead to a prevalence of mental health symptoms. The aim of this paper is to determine if RHI exposure increases the risk of developing mental health conditions in contact sport athletes.

Methods: CINAHL Ultimate, MEDLINE Ultimate, PubMed, and SPORTDiscus were searched for relevant literature pertaining to the focused clinical question. The search was conducted from January 1st to February 18th, 2026. Keywords used to guide the search …