Medicine and Health Sciences Commons^™

Atypical Hemorrhoid Or Hidden Malignancy? Anal Melanoma And Palliative Strategies, Osamuyi Asemota, Kayla Brown, Megan Turley

Central & West Texas and San Antonio GME Research Day 2025

No abstract provided.

Fluoridation Facts, American Dental Association

Fluoridation Facts

Fluoridation Facts is the ADA's premier resource on fluoridation, answering frequently asked questions about community water fluoridation and the latest scientific research. The book assists policy makers and the general public in making informed decisions about fluoridation. With an easy-to-use question-and-answer format that draws on more than 400 references, the book answers queries about fluoridation's effectiveness, safety, practice and cost-effectiveness. 114 pages.

Caregiver Resources For Aging With An Intellectual And/Or Developmental Disability (Raidd), Lena M. Conway

Entry Level Occupational Therapy Doctoral Capstone Projects Class of 2025

Caregivers of individuals with intellectual and/or developmental disabilities (IDD) are essential in supporting health, well-being, and aging in place; however, they are often overlooked in policy and occupational therapy (OT) practice. Caregivers frequently experience heightened levels of stress, anxiety, depression, physical fatigue, and social marginalization. Adults with IDD face disproportionately high rates of chronic disease and mental health conditions, and despite the development of resources to support this population, caregivers report barriers to locating, understanding, and utilizing these assets. A scoping review was conducted to determine and explore the needs of caregivers and the systemic challenges they face, including fragmented …

Holistic Health: A Psychosocial Health And Wellness Program For College Students, Elizabeth C. Fasti

Entry Level Occupational Therapy Doctoral Capstone Projects Class of 2025

The Holistic Health program is a doctoral capstone quality improvement project that aims to increase the quality of life (QoL) and well-being for higher education students and increase staff and faculty knowledge of college students' mental health. Driven through education and program development, the program includes four key action plans. The first action plan was an in-person mindfulness-based program for college students. The second action plan includes a proposal for environmental adaptations to foster a safe and supportive campus environment for students. The third action plan includes expanding ready-to-use wellness and mindfulness resources for higher education students. The fourth and …

Parkinson’S Optimal Wellness And Educational Resource (Power) Project, Christina Mcfadden

Entry Level Occupational Therapy Doctoral Capstone Projects Class of 2025

By 2030, over 1.3 million adults in the U.S. are predicted to be diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease (PD), with Pennsylvania exhibiting a notably high incidence (Parkinson’s Foundation, 2023; Willis et al., 2022). Despite this prevalence, non-specialist clinicians, policymakers, and the public generally remain poorly informed in adequately supporting PD (World Health Organization [WHO], 2022). There is a gap within the literature regarding occupational therapy’s (OT) role in community-based PD programming in the U.S. The Parkinson’s Optimal Wellness and Educational Resource (POWER) Project addresses this through a tertiary health approach as identified in the WHO’s Parkinson’s technical brief (2022). Informed by …

Let's Get Connected (Lcg), Delaney J. Boyd

Entry Level Occupational Therapy Doctoral Capstone Projects Class of 2025

The Let’s Get Connected (LGC) doctoral capstone project aimed to improve the social skills of primary school students through program development, education, and clinical intervention in order to encourage a more inclusive environment in the school. Regarding program development, LGC incorporated universal OT services during recess for all second grade students to socialize as a class. During the “All-In Recess” portion of the program, social emotional skills were taught through games that encouraged students to socialize and include all of their peers. The second tier included “Breakfast Bunch and Lunch Bunch”, which consisted of small social participation groups held during …

Promoting Mu, Christina A. Reilley

Entry Level Occupational Therapy Doctoral Capstone Projects Class of 2025

Despite the broad scope of occupational therapy and its significant impact on patients' lives, the profession requires a strategic marketing plan to raise awareness. To address the lack of understanding on a micro level, a comprehensive marketing plan was developed for Misericordia University’s Occupational Therapy Department to align with the current wants and needs of prospective students. Designed as a 14-week doctoral capstone project, PromOTing MU aims to advocate for the profession by showcasing the experiences of current MUOT students. The cliff of OT programs expanding while application numbers decline is a prevalent issue addressed in PromOTing MU, which targets …

Explore Your Future, Faith M. Merritt

Entry Level Occupational Therapy Doctoral Capstone Projects Class of 2025

Explore Your Future, a doctoral capstone project, was developed to aid the development and learning of low socioeconomic status (SES) children attending the McGlynn Center. This project focused on career readiness, addressing community concerns by providing resources on career possibilities, educational pathways, and skills training. A scoping review revealed gaps in research on interventions improving career readiness in low SES children, with limited studies identified across seven databases. Early intervention is proven to enhance career exploration, social-emotional outcomes, social awareness, academic performance, and vocational identity (Howard & Ferrari, 2022). Improvements in self concept, interpersonal and critical thinking skills, and confidence …

The Role And Impact Of Mobile Stroke Units, Jocelyn Grosch

Student Research Poster Presentations 2025

Strokes are one of the leading causes of death and disability in the United States. Optimal outcomes in stroke care depend on rapid diagnosis and immediate treatment. In hospitals, stroke protocols prioritize rapid computed tomography (CT) scans and bloodwork to diagnose and treat the patient promptly as needed. A mobile stroke unit (MSU) is a specialized ambulance equipped with a stroke team, a built-in CT scanner, and the necessary medications for treatment. This pre-hospital intervention has significantly decreased diagnosis and interventional treatment times, leading to better patient outcomes. In particular, MSUs are important for enabling the administration of treatments, such …

Experiences Of Those With "Other" Disfluencies, Kathleen Scaler Scott, Emma Schaedler, Erica Scheinberg, Sarah Hardy, Margaret Koester, Brenna Field, Emma Maley, Kayla Montemarano, Kateri Grice

Student Research Poster Presentations 2025

This ethnographic study collected and analyzed interviews of 8 children with “other” fluency disorders: cluttering, atypical disfluency, excessive non-stuttering like disfluency. Each school-age child participated in a semi-structured interview focusing on grand and mini tour questions. The participants were asked to speak about their perspective and experience with communication in general. Preliminary results of this study revealed the following themes: friendships are hard; high-level communication is a goal; everyone doesn’t ‘get’ me when I talk. Clinical and research implications of findings will be discussed.

Conventional Versus 3d Bolus In Radiation Therapy, Madison Elizabeth Brdaric

Student Research Poster Presentations 2025

Radiation therapy is a form of cancer treatment that uses high-energy radiation to target tumors while protecting healthy tissue. Tumors near the skin can be difficult to treat because the surface does not get enough radiation. Boluses are tissue-equivalent materials that help focus radiation on the tumor. Conventional boluses work well on flat surfaces but struggle on awkward or uneven surfaces such as the nose or ear, resulting in air gaps that limit the efficiency of the treatment. 3D printed boluses solve this problem because they are custom-made to fit each patient's unique body structure. This allows the appropriate amount …

Diagnosing Aortic Dissections With Computed Tomography, Caroline York

Student Research Poster Presentations 2025

Aortic dissections are life-threatening conditions that require an immediate and accurate diagnosis to prevent severe complications, and in some instances death. An aortic dissection is a tear that occurs within the inner layers of the aorta. Symptoms include sudden intense chest pain, shortness of breath, and stroke-like symptoms. This research discusses the utilization of computed tomography (CT) in diagnosing aortic dissections, highlighting its advantages in speed and precision through advancing technology. Computed tomography angiography (CTA) has become a vital imaging modality in the medical imaging field. CTA uses an iodinated contrast media to enhance blood vessels by making them a …

Vonoprazan Vs. Lansoprazole In The Healing & Maintenance Phase Of Erosive Esophagitis, Sushil Rayamajhi, Syed Hasham Ali, Hareesha Bharadwaj, Ali Tariq

North Florida Division GME Research Day 2025

No abstract provided.

Drug Induced Sweet's Syndrome Secondary To Pegfilgrastim: A Rare Case, Renuka Mahatara, Abhi Rao, Ian Whitaker, Bradley Saylors, Charles Holladay

South Atlantic Division GME Research Day 2025

No abstract provided.

From Dermis To Digestive Tract: When Skin Flaps Do More Than Expected, Supritha Chintamaneni, Bilal Ashraf, Galvin Dhaliwal, Aakriti Soni, Amandeep Kaur

Gulf Coast Division GME Research Day 2025

No abstract provided.

Coexisting Type A And B Aortic Dissection With Extension To Carotid Arteries Resulting In Acute Ischemic Stroke, Dung Nguyen, Jilpa Shah, Amnah Andrabi

North Texas Research Forum 2025

Coexisting Type A and B aortic dissection with extension to carotid arteries resulting in acute ischemic stroke Abstract Background: Acute aortic dissection (AAD) is a rare cause of ischemic stroke. Additionally, it is even rarer to have a combined type A and type B aortic dissection. ADD is a high-mortality disease that can lead to immediate decompensation and can be masked by stroke-like symptoms, which can result in delayed or missed diagnosis. We report a patient with acute ischemic stroke (AIS) with subsequent combined type A and type B aortic dissection. Case Report: A 47-year-old man was admitted to the …

Bucks Traction In The Emergency Departments (Ed) In North Texas Division (Ntxd), Mason Poffenbarger, Neil Werthmann, Cody Beltran, Hannah Affleck, Kristen Payne, Caleb Shin, Hans Drawbert, Hayley Buehler, James Drinan, Sanjay Sharma, Diona Johnson, John T. Riehl, Adam Green

North Texas Research Forum 2025

Implementing Buck’s traction for elderly hip fracture patients in the emergency department (ED) is often inefficient, leading to prolonged setup times, increased staff workload, and delays in patient care, ultimately impacting ED length of stay (LOS). This quality improvement project aims to streamline the process by establishing a standardized storage system for traction equipment, optimizing bed compatibility, developing a clear workflow flowchart, and providing targeted staff training. By improving organization and efficiency, we anticipate a reduction in setup time, enhanced workflow, and decreased ED LOS for hip fracture patients. Measuring pre- and post-intervention times will ensure continuous refinement, ultimately leading …

Interprofessional Neonatal Resuscitation Simulations: An In-Situ Assessment Of Pediatric Readiness At A Multi-Site Academic Center, Jessyca C. Gibson, Petru C. Nemes

South Atlantic Division GME Research Day 2025

No abstract provided.

Exosomes And Encapsulated Exomirs In Breast Cancer: Theragnostic Applications And Clinical Implications, Muhammad Imran Sajid, Shafia Bukhari, Hamid Ilyas, Rubina Malik, Minahil Fatima, Rakesh Kumar Tiwari, Surya M. Nauli, Khawaja Husnain Haider

Pharmacy Faculty Books and Book Chapters

Exosomes, released by cells, are small vesicles that have emerged as critical theranostic tools in breast cancer due to their unique ability to transport diverse biomolecules such as proteins, lipids, and RNAs, including microRNAs (ExomiRs). These vesicles are critical in modulating the tumor microenvironment, driving processes like cancer proliferation, invasion, metastasis, and drug resistance. Exosomal microRNAs such as ExomiR-21, ExomiR-1246, and ExomiR-155, with their profound influence on the gene expressions in the recipient cells, are the unsung heroes in tumor progression and immune modulation. This chapter delves into exosome's dual diagnostic and therapeutic potential in breast cancer. It highlights their …

All About Euthanasia, Bhavna Bangalore

STEM for Success Showcase

The infographic details the practice of euthanasia. It explains euthanasia's history, legality, and process. The infographic also mentions way to support terminally ill patients that choose to undergo the procedure.

Every Blessing Crafts, Alan Frausto

OT Doctoral Capstones

Depression is highly prevalent among residents in Long-Term Care Settings (LTCS), approximately up to 50% reported in studies (Matos Quieros et al., 2021; Shrestha et al., 2020; Ulbricht et al., 2019). Occupational Injustice (OI) such as occupational deprivation is a risk factor for residents in LTCS developing depression (Janssen & Grabanski, 2023). Additionally, Causey-Upton (2015) identified occupational marginalization, occupational imbalance, and occupational deprivation as specific forms of OI that residents face.

The field of occupational therapy (OT) has utilized arts and crafts as one of the first interventions since the beginning of the profession (Christiansen & Haertl, 2019, p. 129). …

Holistic Support Toolkit: Integrating Occupational Therapy In Trauma-Informed Parenting For Adoptive And Foster Families, Zenyacy Ortega Rojero

OT Doctoral Capstones

Objective: Adoptive families often face challenges related to early childhood trauma, impacting emotional regulation and daily routines.

Methodology: A bilingual, trauma-informed toolkit was created using feedback from foster/adoptive parents and CASA staff. A pre/post questionnaire assessed the impact on staff knowledge and confidence.

Results: The toolkit significantly increased staff understanding of trauma, OT’s role, sensory processing, and caregiver support (p < .05 across all ten indicators).

Discussion: Findings highlight OT’s contribution to trauma-informed care and the importance of interdisciplinary education for those supporting foster and adoptive families.

Conclusion: The toolkit promoted caregiver confidence and trauma-responsive approaches and has potential for long-term sustainability at CASA and beyond

Enhancing Developmental Care In The Nicu: A Program Evaluation And Roadmap For Trauma- Informed Practice, Roberto Conner

OT Doctoral Capstones

This capstone evaluated the current state of trauma-informed developmental care practices in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit at El Paso Children’s Hospital to identify barriers and inform sustainable improvement strategies. The capstone student shadowed across multiple disciplines, including occupational therapy, speech-language pathology, nursing, and lactation consultants. The capstone student surveyed NICU team members and interviewed unit leadership to assess staff knowledge, confidence, and feedback mechanisms. The capstone student found that staff expressed moderate confidence in delivering developmental care but faced barriers, including communication gaps between disciplines, limited leadership prioritization, and knowledge gaps. The capstone student developed a roadmap specific to …

Mind Matters: Addressing Food Insecurities As A Mental Health Barrier, Nicholas Thomas Guerra

OT Doctoral Capstones

Food insecurity (FI)—the limited or uncertain access to adequate food—is a growing concern among college students and is linked to increased stress, poor mental health, and reduced occupational engagement. Nationally, 41% of college students report experiencing FI, with higher rates among marginalized groups (Nickolaus et al., 2020). At the University of Texas at El Paso (UTEP), 61% of students are affected, a figure influenced by financial strain, limited access to aid, and unique border-related barriers such as immigration status and language (El Pasoans Fighting Hunger, 2022; Weigel et al., 2007). This capstone project, grounded in the Person-Environment- Occupation (PEO) model, …

Hdr Brachytherapy Treatment For Basal Cell Carcinoma​, Makayla L. Kester

Student Research Poster Presentations 2025

This research explains basal cell carcinoma (BCC), the most common form of skin cancer, and the role radiation therapy can play in treating patients with the disease. General information about BCC, common locations of occurrence, diagnosis methods, treatment options, side effects, and expected outcomes are discussed. BCC most often appears on sun-exposed areas such as the face, ears, and neck. For patients who are not good surgical candidates or when surgery could result in disfigurement, radiation therapy offers an effective, non-invasive alternative. One advanced technique is high-dose-rate (HDR) surface brachytherapy, which uses detailed imaging and customized applicators to deliver targeted …

The Safe Steps Project: Fall Prevention Amongst Older Adults In A Skilled Nursing Facility, Maiana Cabrera, Nicole Le, Yen Tran, Madeline Turcotte

ELMSN E-Portfolio. A collection of Scholarly and Creative Works

BACKGROUND: The Safe Steps Project aimed to reduce falls at Pine Creek Care Center, a skilled nursing facility located in Roseville, CA. Before this intervention, the fall rate at Pine Creek Care Center had been rising above their 15% goal in the first few months of 2025. Through an in-service education, this project has helped educate and increase nursing staff knowledge on fall prevention, such as intentional rounding with the 4 Ps (pain, position, potty, and possessions).

AIM: The Safe Steps Project addresses a major cause of injury in older adults, falls. The aim of this project was to improve …

Rural Georgians’ Perspectives On Organ Donation, Isait Alvarado, Brian Childs, Caroline Anglim

South Atlantic Division GME Research Day 2025

No abstract provided.

A Look Into Postpartum T2dm Screening In Patients Diagnosed With Gdm, David Vincent Ream, Joshua Ferrell, Ashlee Nichole Tillery

South Atlantic Division GME Research Day 2025

No abstract provided.

Pseudomyxoma Peritonei As Initial Presentation Of Mucinous Appendiceal Adenocarcinoma, Rajiv Shah, Iren Shabanova, Radhika Mohan, Sirin Khajaviyan, David Ortega, Pooja Paunikar, Dennis Besong, Mitul Patel, Valerie Sinkler

South Atlantic Division GME Research Day 2025

No abstract provided.

Barbiturates Versus Benzodiazepines For Adults With Severe Alcohol Withdrawal, Frank Schaefer, Alexandra Doan, Jarratt Lark, Scott Gutovitz

South Atlantic Division GME Research Day 2025

No abstract provided.