Digital Commons Network^™

The Link Between Pre-Existing Medical Conditions And Knee Meniscus Tear And Repair In Medically Underserved Community, Blake C. Martin, Manoj Peiris, Michael D. Sander

Research Colloquium

Introduction: Menisci function primarily in shock absorption and load transmission and can be torn, in isolation or concomitantly, via various activities. Our primary objective in this study was to analyze patients in the unique RGV community with various pre-existing medical conditions and determine if there was an association with the odds of having knee meniscus tear and repair surgery.

Methods: We conducted a retrospective chart review using the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley (UTRGV) UTHealth electronic database utilizing medical charts during the period January 1, 2018, to January 1, 2025. We collected and analyzed medical charts of individuals …

The Association Between Pre-Existing Medical Conditions And Trigger Finger Release In A Medically Underserved Region, Blake C. Martin, Manoj Peiris, Michael D. Sander

Research Colloquium

Background: Trigger finger is a relatively common condition that may affect daily activities. The Rio Grande Valley (RGV) is a health professional shortage area with a unique patient population. Our primary objective in this study was to analyze patients with various pre-existing medical conditions and determine if there was an association with the risk of trigger finger release surgery.

Methods: We conducted a retrospective chart review using the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley (UTRGV) UTHealth electronic database utilizing medical charts from January 1, 2018, to January 1, 2025. We collected and analyzed medical charts of patients who were diagnosed …

Chronic Conditions And Osteoporosis Risk: Insights From Penalized Logistic Modeling, Blake C. Martin, Juan Lopez Alvarenga

Research Colloquium

Background: The Rio Grande Valley (RGV) is a rural area with underserved, unique communities that may influence the health of the population. The primary objective of this study was to analyze factors associated with osteoporosis in individuals in the RGV to determine if the number of pre-existing medical conditions had an association with the frequency of osteoporosis. We hypothesized that individuals with more pre-existing medical conditions would be associated with an increased frequency of osteoporosis.

Methods: This study was a retrospective chart review from January 1, 2018, to January 1, 2025, using the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley (UTRGV) …

The South Texas Center Of Excellence In Cancer Research Core Facilities, Bianca Jimenez, Joel De Los Santos, Lindsey Shim, Iris Enriquez, Subhash Chauhan, Murali Yallapu

Research Colloquium

Background: The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley-School of Medicine (UTRGV-SOM) has founded the South Texas Centre of Excellence in Cancer Research to address disproportionate cancer related health issues in the Valley. UTRGV-SOM established an Integrated Cancer Research Core (ICRC, CPRIT/UT System), Drug Delivery and Nanomedicine Core (DDNC, CPRIT), and Research Capacity (RCMI) Facilities at the UTRGV campus to provide cutting-edge technologies to support cancer research investigators of the Rio Grande Valley. The ICRC will house technologies like Flow Cytometry, CyTOF, Image Stream Flow, Droplet Digital PCR, molecular and microPET/CT imaging. Our expertise and focus on this presentation will be …

Synthesis Of Various Flavonoids For Effective Anti-Immune Thrombocytopenia Agents, Benjamin Valdivia, Alyssa Aguilar, Victoria Herrera, Shizue Mito

Research Colloquium

Background: Immune thrombocytopenia (ITP) is a hematological disorder characterized by abnormally low platelet counts, often resulting in increased bleeding risk and impaired immune function. Current therapies may be costly, ineffective, or carry significant side effects, highlighting the need for safer, affordable alternatives. Carica papaya leaf extract has shown promise in increasing platelet counts, with flavonoids such as quercetin suggested as key bioactive constituents. However, unmodified plant compounds often suffer from limited potency or specificity. This research aims to synthesize structurally modified flavonoids derived from C. papaya to enhance their therapeutic activity for ITP. Our central hypothesis is that rational chemical …

The Intersection Of Obesity And Breast Cancer In South Texas: Clinical Implications And Regional Disparities, Aura M. C. Calderon, Ivan Mogollon, Luis Salcedo, Jose Loayza, Diane Nguyen

Research Colloquium

Introduction: Breast cancer continues to be the most frequently identified malignancy among females in both Texas and the broader United States. Although South Texas presents a marginally diminished incidence rate overall, the area persists in confronting significant disparities in terms of disease burden and health outcomes. These discrepancies are particularly pronounced among Hispanic women residing in the Rio Grande Valley (RGV), who encounter heightened probabilities of receiving diagnoses at advanced stages despite a lower general incidence rate. Structural inequities, such as restricted access to healthcare services, socioeconomic deprivation, and inadequate health literacy, interact with obesity-associated biological risk factors, thereby engendering …

Progressive Pulmonary Sarcoidosis In A Young Adult Mimicking Miliary Tuberculosis: A Case Report And Literature Review, Aura M. C. Calderon, Luis Salcedo, Ivan Mogollon, Francisco Arias, Juan Pablo Gomez

Research Colloquium

Introduction: Pulmonary sarcoidosis can pose considerable diagnostic challenges, particularly in young adults hailing from regions endemic to tuberculosis (TB), wherein radiographic manifestations may closely mimic those of miliary TB. This case underscores the necessity of sustaining an extensive differential diagnosis and accentuates the critical role of histological verification in the assessment of diffuse pulmonary micronodular infiltrates, especially in instances where the infectious workup yields negative results.

Case Report: A 26-year-old male from the Democratic Republic of Congo, with no significant medical history, presented with a 10–12 month history of chronic dry cough and exertional dyspnea. He denied fever, weight loss, …

Posterior Reversible Encephalopathy Syndrome (Pres) Secondary To B-Cell Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia: A Case Report, Aura M. C. Calderon, Luis Salcedo, Ivan Mogollon, Jeyilis Carmona, Juan Pablo Gomez

Research Colloquium

Background: Posterior Reversible Encephalopathy Syndrome (PRES) represents a rare and potentially reversible neurotoxic disorder, distinguished by the presence of acute neurological manifestations and vasogenic edema, frequently detected through neuroimaging techniques. Although traditionally linked to hypertensive crises, renal insufficiency, and cytotoxic therapies, a growing body of evidence suggests that hematological malignancies, specifically acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL), should be regarded as an independent risk factor.

Case Presentation: A 73-year-old Hispanic female with a medical history significant for hypertension, type 2 diabetes mellitus, end-stage renal disease requiring hemodialysis, and Parkinson’s disease presented with a progressive decline in strength and altered cognitive status. Upon …

From Resettlement To Employment: Bridging Barriers And Empowering Refugee Women Through Workforce Training In Tampa Bay, Mikayla William, Haley Mendillo, Aileen Pinell, Brittany Gordon

OneUSF Undergraduate Research Conference

Approximately 12,425 refugees aged 18-60, resettled in Hillsborough County in fiscal year 2023, highlighting a need for targeted programs supporting refugees in building career skills and gaining confidence in navigating the job market. Refugee women face unique challenges as they integrate into the U.S. workforce, including communication barriers, limited work history, and adapting to workplace norms. A workforce readiness program tailored to refugee women in Tampa Bay provides essential career development tools, fostering economic independence and integration through culturally sensitive training methods. Over a two-day program, a structured curriculum was implemented to accommodate varying educational backgrounds and English proficiency levels. …

Alternative Delivery Systems In Gene Therapy For Parkinson's Disease, Sebastian Rakowski, Mahek Khiantani, Aaryan Wali, Talia Koussayer, Ameera Jamil, J'Nya Harry

OneUSF Undergraduate Research Conference

Parkinson’s Disease (PD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder characterized by motor and non-motor impairments resulting from dopaminergic neuron loss in the substantia nigra. Gene therapy presents a promising approach to restoring dopamine synthesis and alleviating PD symptoms. This study reviews and evaluates current gene therapy strategies, including the use of adeno-associated virus (AAV) and lentiviral vectors, as well as direct infusion of neurotrophic growth factors. By analyzing 50 peer-reviewed articles from 1993 to 2024, the project explores the therapeutic potential and limitations of these delivery systems. AAV and lentiviral vectors show promise in increasing dopaminergic function and sustained protein expression …

Impact Of Stat3 Inhibition On Tumour Progression And Immune Evasion In Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer, Alejandra Santos, Anjali Mukkamalla, Saranya Nallamothu, Sandy Henin

OneUSF Undergraduate Research Conference

Signal Transducer and Activator of Transcription 3 (STAT3) is a critical transcription factor that regulates cell growth, survival and immune responses. It is implicated in Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer (NSCLC), the most prevalent form of lung cancer categorized by aggressive tumour progression and high metastatic potential. NSCLC’s aggressiveness stems from the overactivation of STAT3, promoting cancer cell proliferation, survival, and invasion through mechanisms including genetic mutations, cytokine signalling and inflammatory pathways within the tumour microenvironment. This heightened STAT3 activity not only supports tumour growth but also suppresses anti-tumour immune responses and fosters an immunosuppressive environment. Currently, treatment for NSCLC patients …

Exploring The Role Of Hsv-1 In The Pathogenesis Of Alzheimer’S Disease, Kali Solages, Shruti Sreekanth, Anuita Kremsaliuk

OneUSF Undergraduate Research Conference

Alzheimer’s Disease (AD) is the most common neurodegenerative disorder, characterized by excessive amyloid beta(Aβ) plaque and tau protein tangles in the brain. While the exact cause of AD remains unclear, recent research implicates viral vectors, particularly Herpes Simplex Virus 1 (HSV-1), in its progression. This review investigates how HSV-1 infection can contribute to the development and transmission of AD through viral mechanisms, including pathological amyloid beta and tau protein deposition. A systematic review of 30 peer reviewed articles from the past 10 years was conducted, focusing on HSV-1’s influence in AD, using databases such as PubMed and Google Scholar with …

Point Of Care Ultrasound (Pocus): No Hocus Among Anesthesiologists, Natalie A. Brin, Andrea Camila Marcano-Rodriguez, Muhamed Jaber, Grace Victoria Faberlle, Ryan Singh

OneUSF Undergraduate Research Conference

Andrea Camila Marcano-Rodriguez, Natalie Andrade Brin, Muhamed Muntaser Jaber, Grace Victoria Faberlle, Ryan Singh Faculty Mentor: Dr. Donna Lee Ettel-Gambino (Judy Genshaft Honors College) An anesthesiologist’s ability to recognize the intrinsic utility of Point of Care Ultrasound (POCUS) as a diagnostic tool may improve patient safety, decrease anesthesia time, and maximize patient outcomes.1 Evidence suggests that POCUS is a safe, inexpensive, non-invasive, portable, and easily accessible perioperative tool. The purpose of study was to identify the anesthesiologists’ systems and processes for clinical decision-making utilizing POCUS for patients during the perioperative phases of care. A MANOVA was conducted to identify differences …

Economic Impact Of Nicotine Addiction: A Multi-Stakeholder Cost Analysis, Shikha Patel

OneUSF Undergraduate Research Conference

Extensive research has examined the health consequences of nicotine addiction, but economic analyses incorporating multiple stakeholder perspectives remain scarce. This study quantifies the annual financial burden of nicotine addiction across users, employers, and insurers. A systematic analysis was conducted on direct and indirect costs, utilizing data from the Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Bureau of Labor Statistics, and insurance industry reports (2022-2024). The financial impact was assessed for each stakeholder, including consumption expenses, productivity losses, healthcare utilization, and insurance claims. The estimated annual economic burden of nicotine addiction was ₹1,773.4 billion in India, while in the U.S., costs …

Effects And Risks Of Pediatric Malnutrition On Neurodevelopmental Disorders And Cognitive Decline, Aminata A. Thiam, Ana M. Beatriz, Katie-Linn Poindexter, Mandy Jiang, Maxx Struhs, Valerie Vargas Ardila

OneUSF Undergraduate Research Conference

Malnutrition during early childhood is a significant risk factor for neurodevelopmental disorders (NDD) and cognitive decline (CD), with lasting effects into adulthood. Deficiencies in essential nutrients, such as vitamins, minerals, and fatty acids, hinder the proper development of the brain, leading to issues such as attention deficits, cognitive delays, and neurological disabilities. This project aims to examine the effects of pediatric malnutrition on neurodevelopmental outcomes and assess the metrics used to analyze cognitive outcomes in pediatric patients. Utilizing electronic databases such as PubMed and JAMA Network, a systematic literature review was conducted to evaluate the impact of CD and NDD …

A Comparative Analysis Of Healthcare Systems: The United States And Germany, Catherine Ugwu, Belinda Solis

OneUSF Undergraduate Research Conference

Healthcare systems around the world can differ significantly in areas such as their structure and accessibility. This study compares key aspects of the German and American healthcare systems, focusing on an unbiased comparison of the two. Germany’s healthcare system, grounded in its Basic Law of “Grundgesetz”, ensures universal access to medical care using their main system of statutory health insurance (SHI) and private insurance. In contrast, the U.S. operates a fragmented healthcare system characterized by a mix of private and public insurance, leading to significant disparities in coverage and costs. By analyzing these differences, this study highlights the strengths and …

Assessing The Effectiveness And Implementation Of Artificial Intelligence In Detecting And Preventing International Financial Crimes: A Case Study Of The United Kingdom, Robert J. Dalton

OneUSF Undergraduate Research Conference

Financial crime has been an issue that has plagued the world for as long as the concept of trade has existed. With the rise of the digital age and globalization, financial crime has continuously and significantly evolved, with increasingly complex and intricate methods of financial crime and fraud being committed each year. Government organizations and financial institutions are having to constantly overcome new barriers and challenges to monitor financial crimes due to their evolving nature. Artificial intelligence, a new technology that is being constantly researched and explored, has the potential to innovate current and new technologies within the financial intelligence …

L-Ergothioneine Shows Benefits In Reducing Age-Related Hearing Loss: Improved Signal-In-Noise Detection In Mice, Evin Roji, Muhammad Hassam Amir

OneUSF Undergraduate Research Conference

The amino acid, L-ergothioneine (EGT), has gained attention as a potential therapeutic for age-related conditions due to its antioxidant and antiinflammatory properties. EGT is naturally found in various foods and shows promise in protecting against oxidative stress, inflammation, and neurodegeneration. Recent studies have highlighted its role in improving physiological functions in aging models, particularly in mitigating age-related declines in sensory and neurological systems. In this study, we aimed to investigate whether long-term oral administration of EGT via gavage could improve hearing function in aged mice. Hearing sensitivity and signal-in-noise detection were measured to determine the therapeutic potential of EGT for …

Replication Fork Remodeling Curtails Dna Synthesis During Excessive Origin Firing, Thanh Le

OneUSF Undergraduate Research Conference

DNA replication is a faithful and accurate process during S-phase in each cell division. Errors in replication can potentially lead to cancer, highlighting the purpose of studying mechanisms of DNA replication. There are many challenges that cause DNA damage, making replication fork regulation essential to protect genome integrity. When cell misregulate during replication, it can result in re-replication, which replication origins are re-licensed and fired again. This leads to stress induced DNA breaks, activating cell cycle checkpoints and apoptosis, which cancer cells try to evade, making it a potential chemotherapy target. While re-replication is a source of genomic instability, re-replication …

Parental Internalizing Symptoms And Parenting Behaviors: The Moderating Role Of Social Support, Anh Van Nguyen

OneUSF Undergraduate Research Conference

“It takes a village to raise a child”. Social support is vital to parents in carrying out child-rearing duties, which is an additional source of stress for parents. Parents who exhibit higher levels of internalizing symptoms (e.g., depression, anxiety, stress) are more likely to engage in negative parenting behaviors. These behaviors can, in turn, negatively impact child development. Therefore, it is essential to investigate whether greater social support can buffer or attenuate the relationship between parental internalizing symptoms and negative parenting practices. Understanding this potential moderating effect is particularly important given the central role of parenting in shaping children’s developmental …

Evaluating Impact Of Congenital Zika Virus Infection On Reproductive Health And Neonatal Outcomes In Latin America, Adrianna Soto, Maria Ivanova, Amanda Chinea, Daniela Davila, Ana Laura Alcantara Nascimento, Michelle Rodriguez, Valerie Vargas Ardila

OneUSF Undergraduate Research Conference

Congenital Zika virus syndrome (CZS) represents a severe and multifaceted outcome of Zika virus (ZIKV) infection during pregnancy, with far-reaching implications for both maternal and neonatal health. ZIVK, transmitted through the Aedes aegypti mosquito vector, has been linked to a range of birth defects, most notably microcephaly. CZS also increases the risk of other complications such as stillbirth, miscarriage, neonatal death, and a spectrum of congenital malformations. Between 2015 and 2016, over 2,000 confirmed cases of microcephaly linked to ZIVK were reported in Brazil, underscoring the epidemic as a public health crisis, particularly in Latin America, where environmental and socio-economic …

The Role Of Estrogen In Lung Health, Aishwarya Aggarwal, Pooja Shree Mohann, Darshana Srivatsava, Jiya Patel

OneUSF Undergraduate Research Conference

Estrogen, a key sex hormone, significantly influences lung health by modulating inflammation, immune responses, and disease progression. It impacts over 50% of women worldwide, yet the precise mechanisms underlying these effects remain misunderstood. This study evaluates how estrogen influences inflammation and disease progression in lung health, focusing on hormonal imbalances. A systematic review of PubMed and Scopus peer-reviewed literature (2000–2024) was performed. Thirty studies were selected considering their relevance for the role of estrogen in asthma, inflammation, lung cancer, and fibrosis. Studies that were included were experimental models to study estrogen receptors and hormonal effects on disease severity. Experiments also …

Exploring Marine Microbial Products: Targeting Medical Bacteria In Little Bayou Bay, Shivam Anil Patel

OneUSF Undergraduate Research Conference

This study focuses on the identification and curation of microbial natural products, with a specific interest in their potential to target medical-related bacteria. The environment of the Little Bayou Bay was sandy with dirt near alley water that goes out to the Little Bayou Bay. The depth of sample was collected can have different pH level, and bacteria that live in the area. Understanding these reasons why microbial natural target medical-related bacteria can open numerous treatment options. The goal of the research lab is to isolate a bacterium from a sample from Little Bayou Bay. During the lab conduct multiple …

Evaluating The Effect Of Competition On Adult Physical Activity Using Heart Rate Monitoring, Julia De Paula Silva

OneUSF Undergraduate Research Conference

As of 2023 it has been reported that the United States is facing a physical inactivity crisis, with approximately 24.2% of adults meeting the recommended engagement levels of physical activity (PA). A lack of PA engagement is associated with an increased risk of obesity, type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and types of cancer (e.g., colon, breast). Therefore, the purpose of the proposed study is to develop a cost-effective behavioral intervention to promote PA among adults. This study will recruit dyads of existing friends between ages 18–65 who engage in low levels of PA (i.e., at least 45 min per week). …

Evaluating Extreme Weather And Climate Adaptation Concerns For Corn And Soybean Farmers, Dharsh Saravana

OneUSF Undergraduate Research Conference

Corn and soybeans are the most economically valuable crops in Minnesota and represent significant land usage in the state with farmers reporting 14.5 million acres of corn and 7 million acres of soybeans planted in 2024. Continued warming and fluctuations between extreme weather events driven by climate change are expected to increase pest pressure, flood damage, and risk of heat stress for crops and farmworkers. Six climate-conscious commercial corn and soybean farmers located predominantly in southern Minnesota were interviewed to understand their perceived extreme weather and climate impacts, farm management responses to these conditions, and risk management concerns for their …

Future Critical Habitat For The Roseate Spoonbill In Florida: A Probabilistic Habitat Suitability Model Based On County Population Growth And Existing Spoonbill Sightings, Ria R. Reynolds

OneUSF Undergraduate Research Conference

Historically, studies surrounding future conservation practices for the roseate spoonbill (Platalea ajaja) have been scarce, instead focusing on ecosystem/community based spatial analyses. The roseate spoonbill has long acted as both a flagship species for conservation and ecotourism and an indicator species of wetland health. However, the lack of focus on this species in research only aids in the disjointed classification of their vulnerability levels – the IUCN Red List labeling them as a species of least concern while the Gulf Coast Vulnerability Assessment describes them as highly vulnerable with the lowest capacity to adapt. An individualized assessment of the roseate …

Real-Time Decisions, Real-Time Results: The Power Of Point-Of-Care Ultrasound (Pocus), Muhamed M. Jaber, Natalie A. Brin, Andrea Marcano-Rodriguez, Ryan Singh, Grace Faberlle

OneUSF Undergraduate Research Conference

Point-of-care ultrasound (POCUS) serves as an invaluable tool in the assessment of anatomical variation, the guidance of invasive interventions and the diagnosis of critical conditions which may lead to changes in plan of care. Using POCUS, anesthesiologists may benefit from this fast diagnostic tool. This technology improves speed, success rate and gets patients to surgery faster. The purpose of this pilot program evaluation was to identify the anesthesiologist’s system and processes for clinical decision-making during the perioperative phases of care. A MANOVA was conducted to identify differences across groups. The independent variable was the type of POCUS scan performed [GU, …

Cardiopulmonary Interactions In Heart Failure And Chronic Lung Disease, Krish Makhija, Rithvik Bhathivi, Riya Narwani, Stuti Dibbur

OneUSF Undergraduate Research Conference

Globally, cardiovascular diseases, which are directly related to cardiopulmonary interactions, affect over half a billion people and cause 20.5 million deaths in 2021. Cardiopulmonary interactions refer to the complex interactions between the heart and lungs, particularly in diseases where dysfunction in one organ significantly impacts the other. This research aims to discover treatments and prevention methods for Cardiopulmonary Interactions in Heart Failure and Chronic Lung Disease. The aim is to help find early detections of these diseases and educate the public on how to prevent these diseases. A systematic review analyzed 22 peer-reviewed studies out of 45 from 2010 to …

Gpcr-Mediated Mechanisms In Obesity: The Role Of Ghrelin And Glp-1 Receptors​, Ryan Singh, Tuana Cenberoglu, Jonathan Budlong, Jaclyn Alejandro, Andrea Weitoschova, Libin Ye

OneUSF Undergraduate Research Conference

G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) regulate metabolism and transmit appetite cues throughout the brain and digestive system. Binding to GPCRs, ghrelin, and GLP-1 are ligands that influence hunger, energy balance, and insulin secretion. Understanding the relationship between GPCRs and ligands such as ghrelin and GLP-1 offers critical insights into treating metabolic disorders such as obesity, a growing issue in America. Our methodology involved a literature review using USF, NIH, and JSTOR databases. Search terms like “GPCR obesity,” “GLP-1 obesity,” and related keywords identified articles from 2000 onward, yielding 59 studies on GLP-1 and ghrelin in obesity. GLP-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1RAs), initially …

The Effects Of Sleep Deprivation On Cognitive Function Of University Students, Ikshita Achanta, Anthony Hamati, Vanessa Singh, Joanne Nguyen, Rebecca Pothen, Reneta Pothen, George Malki, Bhavisha Hirani

OneUSF Undergraduate Research Conference

Sleep is vital for college students, directly influencing their cognitive, emotional, and physical health, which are crucial for academic success and overall well-being. Sleep deprivation affects memory consolidation, learning, focus, problem-solving, and decision-making, all of which are essential for retaining knowledge, applying it in assignments, and excelling academically. By strengthening neural connections, adequate sleep enhances critical thinking and productivity, while its absence leads to reduced concentration and impaired cognitive performance. Sleep deprivation tends to affect multiple areas of the brain in regard to neural activity, alertness, and cognitive function. Our investigation examines the impact of sleep deprivation on undergraduate cognitive …