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 …

Microhabitat Usage And Symbiotic Dynamics Of A Shell-Dwelling Cichlid (Neolamprologus Similis), Camden Haines, Hanley Rooker

Liberty University Research Week

Aquatic ecosystems promote variable microhabitats which in turn support dynamic biotic assemblages. One such microhabitat involves gastropod shells and the dependence on these microhabitats for breeding success in shell-dwelling cichlids native to Lake Tanganyika in East Africa. Once a microhabitat is selected by a male-female pair, both parents will care for the nest and eggs until the young are developed enough to leave the shell. This research aims to quantify how parental division of care influences offspring quality and developmental timing in the shell-dwelling cichlid Neolamprologus similis. Mating pairs of N. similis will be introduced to study tanks to assess …

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 …

The Effect Of Repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (Rtms) On Knee Rehabilitation: A Critically Appraised Topic, Destiny Seetram

Liberty University Research Week

Context: Knee injuries, including anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction and knee osteoarthritis (KOA), can lead to decreased quadriceps strength, reduced joint function, and persistent pain. Repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) can enhance corticospinal excitability, promote quadriceps activation, and improve functional recovery. This critically appraised topic evaluates the effects of rTMS on pain, quadriceps function, and overall recovery in individuals undergoing knee rehabilitation.

Methods: Google Scholar, PubMed, and Trip Database were searched for studies published within the past 5 years. The initial search identified 942 studies. After screening titles and abstracts, 939 studies were excluded due to duplicates or relevance. Three …

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 …

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 …

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.

Profanity In Public Address And Its Influence On Audience Perception, Emma Witler

Liberty University Research Week

Profanity is not a novel addition to the context of language and communication. While words themselves or the connotation and severity surrounding them has assuredly evolved, the presence of profanity in society is just as significant now as it has always been. Geography, culture, religious beliefs or affiliations, politics, and even age can be determining factors of what is considered “too far” and when or where this boundary has been crossed. Due to the nature of profanity and its inherent impact on society, it is essential that the use of profanity is analyzed contextually with the intent of increasing communicative …

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 …

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: …

Balancing Risk And Reward: Examining Offensive Rebound Rates And Points Per Possession In Di Men’S College Basketball, Quinten Chiarizzio, Braden Chupp, Joshua Hines, Conor Guiltinan

Liberty University Research Week

This study aims to investigate how the number of offensive rebounders attempting to rebound a missed shot affects the offensive rebounding rate and the points per possession of the offensive team. Offensive rebounding rate is a strong indicator of success in basketball and can drastically improve a team's efficiency. Some research has been done at the NBA level, yet little research has been done at the college level into maximizing this rate without jeopardizing the defensive end. This study aims to address the research question: "How does the number of offensive rebounders impact the offensive rebounding rate and points per …

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 …

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 …

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 …

Assessing Communication Within Education For Students Who Are Deaf With Additional Disabilities (Dwd), Lisa Grane

Liberty University Research Week

There is a growing number of Deaf students diagnosed with additional disabilities (DWD) who have a diverse range of needs. Yet there is also a prevalence of misdiagnosis that leads to educational and developmental challenges. Due to this fact, there is a shortage of evidence-based research regarding beneficial support for DWD students. Parents and educators often report a lack of sufficient information about services and resources that could be implemented to further communication support for DWD individuals. This research will investigate how schools in Illinois assess and meet both the educational and developmental needs of DWD students. This will be …

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 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 …

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 …

Western Blot Analysis Of A Formalin-Induced Neuropathic Pain Model In Mice, Caroline Foy

Liberty University Research Week

Neuropathic pain is a chronic debilitating condition typically caused by nervous system injury or disease. This experiment proposes that a single subcutaneous injection of formalin is sufficient to produce neuropathic pain and associated nervous tissue changes. It is hypothesized that a western blot of lumbar tissue collected from formalin-injected mice will show an increase of two key proteins indicating gliosis: GFAP and Iba1.

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 …

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 Role Of Artificial Intelligence In Division I Collegiate Scouting: A Qualitative Study Of Recruiter Perspectives, Leah Watson, Jonah Kirschner, Joseph Ebenroth, Max-Alain Pierre-Pierre, Micah Witt

Liberty University Research Week

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is a fairly new and prevalent part of collegiate athletics, especially in how teams examine and scout athletes. Scouting is the process of watching and evaluating athletes’ performance with the intent of recruitment. The purpose of this study is to explore how division 1 collegiate recruiting teams can use AI as a tool to guide them in their process of scouting. Traditionally, scouting involves a lot of travel, film watching, and stress on team scouts, which can bring about problems such as emotional and opinionated decisions, whereas AI could bring a more statistical, less stressful scouting process. …

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 …

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? …

Injury Prevalence In D1 College Track And Field Athletes, Kaitlyn Mcgonagle

Liberty University Research Week

Context: Given the number of events in collegiate track and field there is bound to be a variety of injuries present in the sport. Knowing the prevalent injuries means that athletic trainers can better plan for what they will encounter. As well as being able to come in prepared and ready for the injuries they will likely be working with. So, it begs the question, what injuries are most prevalent in D1 track and field athletes.

Methods: Injury prevalence data were gathered from Liberty Universities track and field, and cross-country teams for both men and women. The injury data was …

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: …

Evaluation Of Convective Heat Transfer Of An Enclosed Lithium-Ion Cylindrical Cell In Turbulent Channel Flow, Benjamin Truxel

Liberty University Research Week

No abstract provided.

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.

Nil And Gender Equality In Division 1 Athletics: Integrating Institutional Support, Marketplace Dynamics, And Athlete Earnings¿, Sawyer Magnett, Ashlie Miles, Elizabeth Ringley, Isobel Janet Caprielle Pettem Shand

Liberty University Research Week

The implementation of Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) policies in collegiate athletics has fundamentally transformed how student-athletes can earn income from their sport and build their own brands in ways that were never before available. This shift has created new opportunities for both male and female athletes, but it has also introduced significant disparities between how this money is allocated between males and females. This is largely due to this unprecedented landscape within collegiate athletics in combination with minimal regulations and procedures as outlined by the NCAA. Due to this, universities have begun to navigate how to disperse both direct …

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 …