Digital Commons Network^™

2026-05-06 Unions Cry ‘Mayday’ At International Workers Day Rally, Tristan Scott

The Spectator Online

No abstract provided.

2026-05-06 Union Green Provides Sunny Haven For Students, Julia Pilch

The Spectator Online

No abstract provided.

2026-05-06 Seattle U Japanese Student Association Hosts Sixth Annual Spring Festival, Diego Dumlao

The Spectator Online

No abstract provided.

2026-05-06 Week In Review April 27 — May 6, Kean Mathis

The Spectator Online

No abstract provided.

2026-05-06 Zoned Out: Don’T Kill King County Regional Homelessness Authority, Jo Moreau

The Spectator Online

No abstract provided.

Immediate Nerve And Tendon Transfers After Wide Resection Of A Radial Nerve Malignant Peripheral Nerve Sheath Tumor: A Case Report And Surgical Technique, Joanne Zhou, Sai Shreya Kambham, Andrew Fang, Christopher Frey, Michael Macavoy

Faculty, Staff and Student Publications

The authors have reported on immediate nerve and tendon transfers postresection of a radial nerve-based malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumor in a 15-year-old female with neurofibromatosis. The median nerve branch to flexor carpi radialis was transferred to the posterior interosseous nerve, the median nerve branch to flexor digitorum superficialis was transferred to the nerve to extensor carpi radialis brevis, and the pronator teres tendon was transferred to the extensor carpi radialis brevis tendon, with 3-year outcomes reported. Tumor excision, tendon, and nerve transfer yielded negative margins and remission. Functional wrist/finger extension appeared at 6 months and increased until 3 years …

Age And Genotype-Dependent Baseline Characterization Of Spatial Learning And Memory In App/Ps1 Rats Using The Morris Water Maze, Thomas George, Mohammadreza Arbab, Nathanael Ricardo Alicea, Mahdie Kerdari, Christopher Janson

Rowan-Virtua Research Day

Background: Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is characterized by progressive cognitive decline. Transgenic APP/PS1 rat models offer improved translational relevance compared to mouse models due to closer similarity to human neurobiology.

Objective: To establish a baseline profile of spatial learning and memory across age and genotype in rate model.

Methods: The Morris Water Maze (MWM) was used to assess four groups of rats: young Wild Type (WT), young APP/PS1 (AD), middle-aged WT, and middle-aged AD. Spatial learning was evaluated during acquisition (Day 1–4) using cumulative proximity and escape latency. Memory was assessed using probe trials (Day 2–4). Swim velocity …

Metabolic And Bariatric Outcomes In Transgender Patients Receiving Gender Affirming Hormone Therapy: A Literature Review, Emily Sarett, Heather Dixon

Rowan-Virtua Research Day

Title: Metabolic and Bariatric Outcomes in Transgender Patients Receiving Gender Affirming Hormone Therapy: A Literature Review

Authors/Institutions: Emily Sarett, OMS-II1; Heather Dixon, PharmD2

Abstract:

Introduction: Obesity is a growing concern among transgender individuals, influenced by gender-affirming hormone therapy (GAHT) and social determinants of health. Bariatric surgery is effective, but metabolic outcomes and access to care remain understudied. Methods: A literature review was conducted using PubMed, Embase, and StatPearls databases (2020–2025). Studies evaluating bariatric outcomes, pharmacologic therapies, and metabolic effects of GAHT were included. Following screening and deduplication, 22 studies were analyzed. Results: GAHT is associated with increased fat mass and …

Evaluation Of Possible Suicide Attempt And Treatment Of Chronic Serotonin Syndrome: A Case Report, Lalitya Karra, Colin Villarin

Rowan-Virtua Research Day

No abstract provided.

Challenges For Older Veterans In Disaster-Prone Rural Areas, Umayma Saifuddin, Joshua Ehrenberg, Elizabeth Tran Phung

Rowan-Virtua Research Day

Purpose: To describe a case in which an elderly veteran was unable to receive necessary health services due to environmental factors and routine natural disaster in his rural coastal town. Methods: A case report is presented. Results: A 95 year-old WWII veteran with a complex medical history and numerous disabilities including hearing impairment, visual impairment, and chronic pain struggles to receive proper care as he lives in a small coastal town. The patient’s son lives an hour away and this area is prone to flooding, making accessing health services extremely challenging. In order to respect the patient’s wishes to remain …

What Is The Role Of The Gut Microbiome In Modulating Immune Tolerance And The Development Of Allergic Disease In Infants?, Priyal Gajera

Rowan-Virtua Research Day

Introduction: The infant gut microbiome plays a critical role in immune system development during the early-life “window of immune education.”¹ Microbial colonization influences immune tolerance through mechanisms such as regulatory T-cell (Treg) induction, short-chain fatty acid (SCFA) production, and mucosal immune regulation. Disruptions in this process (dysbiosis) are associated with increased risk of allergic diseases, including food allergy, atopic dermatitis, and asthma. Environmental and maternal factors such as delivery mode, antibiotic exposure, and feeding practices significantly impact microbial composition and immune outcomes.²

Methods: A literature review was conducted using PubMed with search terms related to the gut microbiome, …

Resensitization Of Clinical Isolates Of Mdr-Acinetobacter Baumannii To Antibiotics Using Bacteriophage Therapy, Zainab Mubasher, Valerie J. Carabetta

Rowan-Virtua Research Day

Acinetobacter baumannii is a Gram-negative, opportunistic pathogen notorious for causing severe infections in immunocompromised patients, particularly those with prolonged hospitalizations or invasive procedures1. Originally susceptible to many antibiotics in the 1970s, this bacterium has since evolved extensive resistance, making it one of the most challenging members of the ESKAPE group of multidrug-resistant (MDR) pathogens2. Its ability to survive in harsh environments and acquire resistance determinants has led to its classification as a “red alert” pathogen by health authorities worldwide. The increasing prevalence of MDR A. baumannii infections in healthcare settings underscores an urgent need for alternative treatment strategies as conventional …

Effect Of Parkinson’S Disease On The Lateralization Of The Digastric Muscle In A Rodent Model, Estelle Richardson, Francois Gould

Rowan-Virtua Research Day

In Parkinson’s disease, the loss of dopaminergic neurons in the substantia nigra can cause dysphagia, which affects all phases of swallowing. In swallowing, bilateral pairs of muscles under the control of independent unilateral neural mechanisms must simultaneously activate to coordinate their movements and produce a swallow. However it is unknown how Parkinson’s disease impairs the activation of the right and left sides of those muscles. In this study we tested how Parkinson’s disease impacts the lateralization of the digastric muscle in rats. We hypothesized that Parkinson’s disease will cause a difference in activation of the right and left digastric muscles …

Assessing Risk Of Modern Energy Product Consumption Among Adolescents And Young Adults, Darshak Rana, Jeffery C. Powers

Rowan-Virtua Research Day

Background: Caffeine consumption among adolescents and young adults has increased significantly with the popularity of energy drinks, pre-workout supplements, and high-caffeine beverages. Excessive intake is associated with cardiovascular risk, yet awareness of safe limits remains low. This study evaluated caffeine use patterns, knowledge of guidelines, and self-reported cardiovascular effects among youth.

Methods: A cross-sectional survey was administered to individuals aged 15–25 years (n=27) in clinical settings. Respondents reported frequency of caffeine intake, product types consumed, knowledge of recommended daily limits, and cardiovascular symptoms experienced while caffeinated.

Results: Most participants (70%) consumed caffeine regularly, with coffee, soda, and energy drinks as …

Impact Of A Novel Surgical Technique On Dual Kidney Transplant Outcomes, Kunj Patel, Rayyan Nadeem

Rowan-Virtua Research Day

In traditional Dual Kidney Transplantation (DKT) techniques, kidneys may be placed bilaterally (one kidney in each iliac fossa) or unilaterally (both kidneys implanted on the same side) with an aortic patch. Several studies have shown the advantages and disadvantages of these traditional transplant techniques, as well as the risks and possible complications. Some general complications that come with kidney transplant surgeries include hypertension, post-transplant diabetes mellitus, peri-graft collections. The unilateral placement techniques offer advantages such as using a single surgical site and reduced operative time but could be associated with complications like lymphocele or ureteric stricture. The bilateral placement techniques …

Sonidegib (Lde225) Reduces Inflammatory Signaling And Preserves Taste Buds In A Sepsis Mouse Model, Ashlyn Mcclelland, Murod Khikmatov, Archana Kumari, Gabrielle Audu, Isaiah Nawaz, Kingsley Yin

Rowan-Virtua Research Day

Background:

Sepsis triggers a complex and widespread inflammatory response that disrupts multiple organ systems, including the taste organ. Loss of taste is a symptom recognized in sepsis survivors and has the potential to contribute to further complications such as anorexia. Prior work from our lab demonstrated that cecal ligation and puncture (CLP) in mice induces immune cell infiltration and alters taste bud morphology in the fungiform papillae located in the anterior tongue. We hypothesize that similar deleterious effects occur in the circumvallate papillae (CVP) of the posterior tongue and that the usage of the smoothened inhibitor, sonidegib, could reduce these …

When Venom Isn’T The Only Threat: Roseomonas Mucosa Bacteremia Following A Snake Bite, Cyrus Davati, Kishan Patel, James A. Espinosa Md, Alan Lucerna

Rowan-Virtua Research Day

Snake bites in the ED  overall are rare in the United States. While mortality is low due to modern interventions, the sequelae - including tissue necrosis, digit amputation, and subsequent infection  remain a significant concern.  Here we present the case of a  presumptively non-venomous snakebite, which  was associated with R. mucosa bacteremia.

Case Report: Primary Appendiceal Cancer Presenting As Acute Appendicitis, Armeet Singh, Wayne Tamaska, James Espinosa, Alan Lucerna

Rowan-Virtua Research Day

We report a case of a 46‐year‐old male who presented to the emergency department with right lower quadrant abdominal pain and was initially suspected to have acute appendicitis. Further evaluation and surgical pathology revealed primary appendiceal adenocarcinoma. Appendiceal cancer is rare and often presents with nonspecific symptoms that mimic common abdominal conditions such as appendicitis or diverticulitis. Early diagnosis can be challenging, and many cases are discovered incidentally during surgery or imaging for suspected appendicitis. This case highlights the importance of maintaining a broad differential diagnosis for right lower quadrant pain.

An Unusual Cause Of Generalized Weakness: Cns Toxoplasmosis, Christopher Dellmyer, Danielle Kusmaul, James Espinosa, Alan Lucerna

Rowan-Virtua Research Day

No abstract provided.

Case Report: Acute Cerebrovascular Accident With An Initial Absence Of Infarct Findings On Mri, Alyssa Baldini Md, Brittany Fera

Rowan-Virtua Research Day

We report a case of a 42-year-old female whose diffusion-weighted magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) performed 28 hours after symptom onset was negative for acute infarction. Repeat MRI 3 days later demonstrated left-sided corona radiata infarction.

Diffusion-weighted MRI imaging may not be sensitive or specific enough in early stages of acute stroke. Caution should be used in relying on imaging alone to make the diagnosis of ischemic stroke. Clinical assessment likely should be given priority in determining appropriate initial treatment and the need for secondary stroke prevention treatment when imaging is negative. Consideration should be given to the timing of initial …

Myxedema Coma: Recognizing A Silent But Potentially Fatal Emergency, Aashna Chaudhry, Robin Lahr, James Espinosa, James Espinosa, Alan Lucerna

Rowan-Virtua Research Day

Myxedema coma is an endocrinologic emergency that requires prompt recognition and treatment. It is described as severe hypothyroidism characterized by life-threatening slowing of metabolic processes, often occurring in the setting of precipitating factors such as trauma, infection, medications, or cold exposure. This case report presents a clinical case in which early suspicion of myxedema coma in an elderly female patient led to prompt treatment and life-saving measures.

Case Report: Vertebral Artery Dissection After Cervical Manipulation, Devin Hoover, Emily Bolinger, James Espinosa, Alan Lucerna

Rowan-Virtua Research Day

We report the case of a 22-year-old female who presented with dizziness and vomiting after recent cervical manipulation who was diagnosed with a dissection of the vertebral artery. Dizziness can have a variety of causes including vascular etiologies, cerebellar and brainstem lesions, ocular problems, trauma, and others. In the setting of a known trauma and acute vestibular symptoms, it is prudent to consider vascular injuries.

An Elusive Diagnosis: Pheochromocytoma Presenting With Hyperglycemia And Hypertensive Crisis, Tucker Ledo

Rowan-Virtua Research Day

Pheochromocytoma is a rare catecholamine-secreting tumor that can present with a wide range of nonspecific symptoms, often mimicking more common medical conditions and making early diagnosis difficult. We report the case of a 40-year-old female with a history of hypertension and prediabetes who presented to the emergency department with hyperglycemia following an episode of lightheadedness. This case highlights the diagnostic challenge of pheochromocytoma in the emergency department, where initial symptoms may be subtle and easily attributed to more common conditions such as hypertension, diabetes, or menopause. Recognition of episodic sympathomimetic symptoms and unexplained hypertensive crises should prompt consideration of pheochromocytoma …

Persistent Hypotension Following Viral Illness- Pocus For Pericardial Effusion, Peter Killian, Kelsey Murray, James Espinosa, Alan Lucerna

Rowan-Virtua Research Day

A pericardial effusion is defined as a build up of fluid in the pericardial space, the lining around the heart. Normal physiologic fluid can consist of approximately 15-50mL in an otherwise healthy adult . Larger amounts of fluid can be detected on radiographs, but are able to be seen on ultrasound when just exceeding physiologic conditions . Here we report a case of persistent hypotension assessed by point of care ultrasound (POCUS) in order to lead to a diagnosis.

Anticholinergic Toxicity Presenting As Acute Stroke Mimic: A Case Report, Dean Austin Esma, Kelsey Murray, James Espinosa, Alan Lucerna

Rowan-Virtua Research Day

Anticholinergic toxicity classically presents with a constellation of peripheral and central symptoms including tachycardia, mydriasis, dry skin, urinary retention, and altered mental status. However, central anticholinergic effects can predominate, presenting as isolated delirium without peripheral manifestations. This report presents a case of a 57-year-old woman who developed acute altered mental status and aphasia following cumulative anticholinergic exposure from over-the-counter cold medications, initially triggering a stroke alert

Predicting And Decoding Allosteric Binding Sites Using Protein Language Models And Structure-Based Machine Learning: An Energy Landscape-Guided Explainable Ai Framework, Kamila Riedlová, Vít Skrhák, William G. Gatlin, Max Ludwick, Lucas Turano, Marian Novotný, David Hoksza, Gennady M. Verkhivker

Mathematics, Physics, and Computer Science Faculty Articles and Research

Computational prediction of allosteric binding sites in protein structures remains a persistent challenge, as these regulatory pockets evade detection by both sequence-based and structure-based algorithms. Both computational and physical origins of this predictive asymmetry remain insufficiently understood. In this study, we systematically examine the determinants of binding site predictability using a dual framework that integrates a fine-tuned protein language model and the structure-based method P2Rank as complementary tools probing a diverse data set of 453 human kinases, together with a physics-based interpretability layer derived from energy landscape frustration analysis. Both predictors exhibit a sharp and reproducible dichotomy on protein kinases, …

Stability Of Sufentanil Sublingual Microtablets (Dzuveo) In Extreme Cold Weather Conditions: An Experimental Study, David Mcconnell, Hayley Manners, Paul Sutton, Nicola Gawman, Tim Parham, Jonathon Lowe

School of Geography, Earth and Environmental Sciences

Introduction Extreme cold weather environments are challenging for medication storage and delivery, particularly for injectable analgesics vulnerable to freezing and device failure. These risks may compromise pain management in austere or operational settings where temperature control cannot be maintained. Sufentanil sublingual microtablets (sold in the UK as Dzuveo) provide an oral analgesic option with manufacturer-reported sub-zero stability. Evidence describing the effects of sustained extreme cold exposure and repeated freeze–thaw cycling on chemical stability and delivery system function is limited.Methods We conducted a laboratory study assessing the effect of sustained freezing and repeated freeze–thaw exposure on sufentanil sublingual microtablets (30 µg …

Proteomics And Alkaloid Signature Of Narrow Leaf Lupin Leaves Reveal Key Enzymes In Quinolizidine Alkaloid Biosynthesis And Transportation, Tawfeek Khedr, Ling Ling Gao, Lars G. Kamphuis, Utpal Bose, Mitchell G. Nye-Wood, Angéla Juhász, Michelle L. Colgrave

Research outputs 2022 to 2026

Quinolizidine alkaloids (QAs) are toxic secondary metabolites in narrow-leafed lupin that defend against herbivores but constrain food and feed use. We developed a single-sample multiomics workflow for simultaneous extraction and quantitative analysis of QAs and proteins from individual leaves using urea/thiourea/CHAPS extraction with acetone precipitation, validated for QA quantification by LC–MS/MS. Data-independent acquisition proteomics of eight lupin accessions (four bitter, four sweet) identified 4437 proteins, with 183 differing significantly between bitter and sweet groups. Bitter accessions were enriched in lysine biosynthesis and stress-response pathways, whereas sweet accessions showed enrichment in phenylpropanoid and other defense-related processes. Coexpression network analysis linked protein …

Applying User-Centered Design To Develop A Culturally Sensitive, Low-Calorie Meal Plan For Enhancing Dietary Behavioral Control In Masld, Ivonne Arguelles, Crystal Arguelles, Terri L Fletcher, Natalia I Heredia, Myriam Ibarra, Anna Christine Rome

Faculty, Staff and Students Publications

Background: Dietary changes are essential for managing metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD), yet patients often face barriers related to knowledge, skills, cost, time, and cultural fit.

Aims: The purpose of this paper is to report a process for culturally tailoring a dietary intervention and its application to create a calorie-restricted meal plan for Mexican and Central American patients with MASLD. Guided by the Theory of Planned Behavior and user-centered design, we produced a culturally tailored seven-day structured meal plan aligned with dietary guidelines for MASLD and weight loss.

Methods: We conducted a three-phase, mixed-methods process among Mexican/Central American patients …

The Narrative Style In Abdo Khal’S Novel “Throwing Sparks”, Saeed Hadi Saad Alqahtani

UB Journal for Humanities

This study investigates the narrative configuration of Throwing Sparks by Abdo Khal through a contemporary narratological lens, employing the analytical framework of Gérard Genette. It addresses a critical gap in Saudi novel criticism, where thematic approaches predominate at the expense of systematic analysis of narrative techniques. Adopting a qualitative narratological methodology, the study examines temporal structure (order, duration, frequency), spatial construction, characterization, focalization, and linguistic style to uncover the mechanisms through which meaning is generated. The findings reveal a complex narrative system structured around layered temporal disruptions, spatial binaries that encode social hierarchy, and sustained internal focalization through a morally …