Medicine and Health Sciences Commons^™

Impact Of Marginal Artery Bifurcation On Coronary Blood Flow And Myocardial Perfusion: A Cadaveric And Histological Analysis, Valerie Yepez, Tyler Stanton, Lily Dwyer, D’Andre Edwards, Melea Neely, Md Emranul Huq

Research Day

Introduction

Coronary artery anatomy exhibits significant variability, with certain structural variations potentially influencing myocardial perfusion and predisposing individuals to ischemic heart disease. One such variation, the bifurcation of the left marginal artery, may alter coronary blood flow dynamics, leading to localized ischemia or increased susceptibility to atherosclerosis. Recent studies have identified bifurcation lesions as predictors of thrombotic events, suggesting that arterial bifurcations create a hemodynamic environment that may facilitate plaque deposition and clot formation. Given the role marginal artery has in supplying the lateral wall of the left ventricle, any disruption to the perfusion could have clinical implications for ischemic …

A Case Report: Uterine Artery Embolization For Treatment Of Uterine Fibroids, Collin R. Morris, Darya J. Khani, Jamie Edwards

Research Day

Background: Uterine fibroids, also known as leiomyomas, are the most prevalent benign tumors of the female reproductive system. While many women with fibroids do not experience any complications, some suffer severe pelvic pain, infertility, and abnormal uterine bleeding. Uterine artery embolization (UAE) is an interventional radiology procedure that can be used for treatment. This involves deployment of an occlusion agent within the uterine artery or individual branch that supplies the fibroid. As a result, the fibroid will reduce in size and degrade over time. The uterus will receive accessory blood flow from other nearby arteries which prevents it from going …

Enhancing Academic Success And Efficiency (E.A.S.E.) Program At Pcom South Georgia, Justice A. Dove, Anthony Dove Jr, Robert Walker

Research Day

INTRODUCTION: First-year medical students face many challenges as they begin their educational journey. Programs like the E.A.S.E. (Enhancing Academic Success and Efficiency) program aims to address these challenges by fostering academic confidence, peer support, and improved comprehension of didactic material. Through peer-led support sessions and academic workshops, the program helps students build a solid foundation for success. Peer teaching, a core component of such initiatives, offers additional benefits, enhancing learning for both the teacher and the learner. It fosters a collaborative environment where students can share experiences and provide mutual support, ultimately improving academic performance and engagement.

OBJECTIVES: The primary …

Current Drugs For The Management Of Epilepsy, Anjali Saji, Rekha Yesudas

Research Day

Introduction: Epilepsy is a chronic brain disorder characterized by recurrent seizures. ~3.4 million people in the US are affected, that is ~1.2% of the population. Focal seizures, the most common type, originate from a specific area of the brain, account for more than half of all seizures. Generalized seizures make up the rest, involving both brain hemispheres. Effective management is critical for improving patient outcomes and quality of life. This review provides an overview of potent antiepileptic pharmacotherapy in the US.

Methods: We explored the major drugs used to treat epilepsy based on available data from databases such as PubMed …

Use Of Simulation For Teaching Biomedical Sciences To Undergraduate Medical Students- A Scoping Review, Joshua Owolabi, Katresa Gardner, Rasheed Agboola, Rekha Yesudas, Jennifer H. Shaw

Research Day

Objective: The objective of this scoping review is to understand the extent and type of evidence in relation to the use of simulation or SIM-based medical education pedagogies to teach biomedical sciences to undergraduate medical students in accredited medical schools, globally. The review considers literature published between 2014-2024.

Introduction: Simulation, which could be generally described as a computer-based or structured model and practice that replicates the processes, behavior, or characteristics of a real-world system or phenomenon, especially for the purpose of education or training, is increasingly becoming popular and relevant in medical education. However, discrete publications with relatively diverse experiences …

Histological Analysis Of Collagen And Elastin Fibers In Different Age Cadavers, Setareh T. Khani, Sydnee N. Jackson, Darya J. Khani, Emranul Huq, Shiv Dhiman, Rasheed Agboola

Research Day

Introduction:

The process of aging significantly impacts the structural and functional properties of the skin. Collagen and elastin are extracellular proteins that provide structural support to the dermis. Variations in the amount of collagen and elastin present within the dermal layer can serve as a key indicator in the aging process, providing insight into the structural and functional changes that occur over time. While there are several reports that assess the morphological changes of the structure of the dermis in different physiological conditions, the quantitative analysis of the degradation of collagen and elastin, as people age, is still largely unexplored …

Navigating Ethical Frontiers: Frameworks For Responsible Ai Implementation In Healthcare, Emeka Ikeakanam, Onyekachi Adigwe, Joshua Owolabi

Research Day

Objective: The objective of this systematic review is to explore ethical frameworks that have been proposed or implemented to guide the development and deployment of artificial intelligence (AI) in healthcare. With AI becoming increasingly integrated into society, this review aims to identify key ethical principles, governance structures, and regulatory considerations in the evolving landscape of AI-driven medical interventions.

Introduction: Due to the rapid development and expansion of AI, its adoption has arguably exceeded the rate at which proper oversight can take place. In healthcare, the potential of AI to benefit patients as well as physicians and hospital systems prompts discussions …

Determining Minimal Dosage Thresholds For Gastroparesis Development In Glp-1 Receptor Agonist Therapy: A Comprehensive Systematic Review And Meta-Analysis, Nikita Mirajkar, Kenyot'a Russell, Evelyn Orusa, Josianne Fils, Saron Araya

Research Day

Background: Glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1 RAs) have emerged as effective treatments for type 2 diabetes mellitus and obesity. While these medications are known to delay gastric emptying, the relationship between the minimum dosage needed to develop clinically significant gastroparesis remains to be further investigated.

Objective: To investigate and establish the dose-dependent relationship between GLP-1 therapies and the incidence or severity of gastroparesis. Furthermore, we seek to identify the common potential dosage in which this adverse effect occurs.

Methods: This research seeks to utilize a systematic review and meta-analysis approach to investigate the dose-dependent relationship between GLP-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1 …

Ai In Early Detection Of Gastrointestinal Cancers: Evaluating Harvard’S Chief Model And Machine Learning Innovations, Saron H. Araya, Endalkachew B. Melese, Simran Joshi, Saman Javid, Muhammad Jalal Shah

Research Day

BACKGROUND

Gastrointestinal (GI) cancers, encompassing colorectal, gastric, esophageal, and pancreatic carcinomas, represent a significant global health burden. The insidious nature of these malignancies often leads to diagnosis at advanced stages, where therapeutic interventions are less effective, resulting in diminished patient survival and quality of life. The challenges associated with traditional diagnostic methods, including their limited sensitivity and specificity, underscore the critical need for innovative approaches to facilitate earlier detection. Early detection is not merely a clinical goal; it is a fundamental strategy to shift the paradigm from late-stage palliation to early-stage cure, thereby improving patient outcomes and reducing the overall …

Sun Safety In Rural Youth: Exploring Knowledge, Preferences, And Behaviors, Darya J. Khani, Haley Elliot, Tiffany Pittman, Jennifer H. Shaw

Research Day

Background:

Skin cancer is the most common cancer in the U.S., with prolonged sun exposure significantly increasing the risk. Rural youth, particularly in agricultural regions like South Georgia, experience high levels of UV exposure but may lack sufficient knowledge about sun safety. Understanding their awareness, preferences, and behaviors regarding sun protection is crucial for developing effective educational interventions.

Objective:

The primary objective is to survey students in the South Georgia community about their knowledge of sun safety prior and following a presentation on the topic of skin protection. The findings of this survey, as well as the informative presentation will …

Stimulant Use And Comorbid Tic Disorders In The Pediatric Population: Clinical Considerations And Treatment Implications, Kennedy Johnson, Jay Rodgers, Neha Vangimalla, Ericka Westbrook, Dina Badawy, Brandon Krout

Research Day

Introduction: Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is frequently treated with stimulant medications such as methylphenidate and amphetamines. However, concerns persist regarding the potential exacerbation or onset of tic disorders in children receiving stimulant therapy which often leads to hesitancy to begin or continue treatment. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has issued warnings about stimulant-induced tics, included in the packaging of dextroamphetamine (Adderall). There is conflicting evidence concerning the worsening of tics as a side effect to simulants, highlighting the need for careful clinical evaluation in patients with comorbid tic disorders prior to starting medication regimens. This study examines the relationship …

A Case Report: Goblet Cell Carcinoma Of The Appendix, Krupesh G. Patel, Asim Shabbir

Research Day

Introduction:

Goblet cell carcinoma (GCC) is a rare subtype of appendiceal neoplasm characterized by both glandular and neuroendocrine features. It accounts for less than 5% of appendiceal tumors, often presenting diagnostic and therapeutic challenges due to its aggressive behavior.

Case Presentation:

This case report discusses a 62-year-old female patient who presented with diffuse abdominal pain and distension. Imaging revealed a large bowel obstruction in the sigmoid colon, pneumatosis of the ascending colon, and pneumoperitoneum. Exploratory laparotomy was significant for large bowel obstruction at sigmoid colon, proximal transverse colon perforation with carcinomatosis involving small bowel, large bowel and ovary. A subtotal …

Bridging Healthcare Disparities In Native American Communities: The Role Of Telemedicine In Lung Cancer Screening And Ophthalmic Care., Maryam Ali, Debra Dougher

Research Day

Introduction

Native American populations experience significant healthcare disparities, particularly in lung cancer screening and ophthalmic care. Limited access to specialized medical services, geographic isolation, and socioeconomic barriers contribute to lower screening rates and higher disease burdens. Telemedicine offers a potential solution by bridging gaps in healthcare access and improving early detection and treatment. This study examines the effectiveness of telemedicine interventions in addressing these disparities.

Methods

A systematic literature review was conducted using PubMed, MEDLINE, Google Scholar, and Indian Health Service publications. Keywords included "Native American health disparities," "lung cancer screening," "ophthalmic care," and "telemedicine." Inclusion criteria focused on studies …

Investigating The Role Of Scoliosis In Talocalcaneal Joint Osteoarthritis: A Histologic And Radiologic View, Tyler Stanton, Valerie Yepez, Lily Dwyer, Melea Neely, D’Andre Edwards, Mark Shearer, Samue Jacobs, Emranul Huq

Research Day

Introduction

Scoliosis is a condition that has been widely studied, with both congenital and idiopathic presentations, and notable differences across sexes, particularly skewed toward women. Joint osteoarthritis (OA), another well-documented disease, differs from scoliosis in that, while being multifactorial, its etiology is much more understood. Previous research has established a strong correlation between spinal misalignment and the eventual need for knee replacement, and the impact of scoliosis on gait mechanics; however, there is surprisingly limited documentation on the link between scoliosis and talocalcaneal joint OA degeneration. Visualizing the histological and radiological differences between scoliotic and non-scoliotic OA cadavers may provide …

Acute Kidney Injury Secondary To Post-Streptococcal Glomerulonephritis In A Pediatric Patient, Carol Medina, Lisandra Chinea, Madison Morgan, Anika Procope, Woodwin Weeks, Anthony Adetomiwa

Research Day

Post-streptococcal glomerulonephritis (PSGN) is a major cause of acute kidney injury (AKI) in children. It follows a Group-A Streptococcal skin or throat infection characterized by complement activation and immune complex deposition, leading to glomerular inflammation and impaired renal function. While PSGN typically presents with hematuria, proteinuria, hypertension, and edema, cases with atypical presentations and no recent history of Strep infection, can delay diagnosis (Dhakal et al., 2023).

We report the case of a 16-year-old female with AKI and acute gastroenteritis with no history of sick contacts. Specifically, she presented with a 2-day history of weakness, nausea, vomiting, and 8 hours …

Cadaveric Case Study Of Renal Artery Variation, Shiv Dhiman, Daniel Chanelo, Samuel Jacobs, Sharon Lackwood, Collins Nelson

Research Day

Introduction: The renal artery is a crucial blood vessel responsible for supplying oxygenated blood to the kidney. In typical anatomy, the renal artery branches off the abdominal aorta at the L1-L2 vertebral level, branching into the left and right renal arteries. This artery is especially crucial as the kidneys receive roughly 25% of cardiac output through the renal artery to filter waste from the blood and maintain homeostasis. Proper blood flow to the kidneys through the renal artery is also essential in monitoring blood pressure through the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system.

Methods: This study involved a cadaveric dissection using standard anatomical techniques, …

Case Study Research Project: Anatomical And Pathophysiological Findings In A Cadaver With A Spinal Cord Stimulator And Chronic Pash Syndrome, Critical Illness Myopathy, And Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy., Kayla E. Hasty, Marisela Benitez, Cailin C. Ingram, Sydnee N. Jackson, Patrice Sarrazin, Gerardo J. Tabares, Emranul Huq

Research Day

Introduction:

Spinal cord stimulators (SCS) are commonly used for neuropathic pain management, particularly in conditions such as reflex sympathetic dystrophy (RSD)/complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS). However, the long-term anatomical and histopathological changes in patients with SCS and multiple comorbidities remain poorly understood. This case study investigates the postmortem findings of a cadaver with a documented history of chronic PASH syndrome (pyoderma gangrenosum, acne, hidradenitis suppurativa), critical illness myopathy (CIM), and RSD/CRPS, all of which contributed to the patient’s cause of death.

Methods:

A comprehensive cadaveric examination was performed in the anatomy laboratory at Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine - South …

Expanded Analysis Of Anatomical Variability In Lung Morphology: Implications For Pulmonary Disease And Clinical Outcomes, Saron Araya, Zain Ismail, Amaan Ismail, Kenyot’A Russell, Oscar Acosta, Shiv Dhiman

Research Day

Introduction

Unfolding the relationship between lung morphology and clinical outcomes may enhance our ability to understand and manage pulmonary diseases. While variations in lung anatomy—such as fissure completeness, the presence of a lingula, and lung impressions—are well documented, their clinical relevance, particularly within specific regions like South Georgia, remains underexplored. Building on our previous research, this study expands the sample size and further investigates these anatomical variations to strengthen our understanding of their potential impact on patient outcomes.

Objective

The goal of this research is to utilize a larger and more diverse sample of cadavers from the South Georgia region …

Bladder Neoplasia In The Setting Of Polycystic Kidney Disease: Observations From A Post-Mortem Case Study, Brandon Worth, Doan Nguyen, Abigail Reynolds, Daniel Lee, Jay Rogers, Jodeci Mitchell, Shiv Dhiman, Rasheed Agboola

Research Day

Introduction

Polycystic kidney disease (PKD) is a serious genetic condition where many fluid-filled sacs, called cysts, grow in the kidneys, often leading to long-term kidney problems and kidney failure. It mainly shows up as autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease (ADPKD), affecting about 1 in 400 to 1,000 people. Beyond affecting the kidneys, PKD is now understood to be a condition that can involve other parts of the body, including the liver, pancreas, and, rarely, the bladder. While the kidney-related issues of PKD, like cyst growth and its risks, have been well researched, the possibility of cancer developing in other organs, …

Submandibular Masses In Pediatric Patients: A Case Report, Emma High, Madison Morgan, Macy Rowan, Carol Medina

Research Day

Submandibular masses in pediatric patients present a diagnostic challenge due to their varied etiology, including congenital, inflammatory, and neoplastic causes. Submandibular sialoadenitis is a rare but important cause of submandibular masses in pediatric patients, often presenting with localized swelling, pain, and inflammation. We report the case of a 9-year-old male who presented with progressively enlarging right-sided posterior submandibular swelling that failed outpatient therapy despite two separate urgent care visits resulting in prescription for augmentin and two separate diagnoses; otitis media and parotitis. At Colquitt Regional Medical Center Emergency Department US and CT imaging studies were performed which supported a diagnosis …

The Effectiveness Of Teledermatology And Artificial Intelligence Across Diverse Skin Tones: A Systematic Review, Shihab Chowdhury, Thomas J. Last

Research Day

INTRODUCTION: Teledermatology has become a vital tool in dermatologic care since its introduction, improving accessibility and efficiency, particularly in underserved communities. However, concerns persist regarding its diagnostic accuracy across diverse skin tones. Dermatologic conditions often present differently in patients with darker skin, and teledermatology’s reliance on image-based diagnosis may amplify disparities in detection and management. Additionally, artificial intelligence (AI) systems used in teledermatology may inherit biases due to underrepresentation of darker skin tones in training datasets. This systematic review examines current evidence on the diagnostic accuracy of teledermatology across diverse skin tones, identifies gaps in research, and explores the potential …

Impact Of Covid-19 On Emergency Department Psychiatric Hospitalization Patterns In Rural South Georgia : A Retrospective Analysis, Jeanine Garcia, Grace A. Jones, Philipa A. Wang, Rizwana Ashraf, Faith Hagler, Richard Tricardo, Lisa Rudolph-Watson

Research Day

Introduction:

The COVID-19 pandemic has significantly impacted healthcare systems worldwide, including psychiatric care in the emergency setting. This study examines psychiatric admission trends before and during the pandemic, analyzing differences in overall admissions, gender distribution, age group variations, and specific psychiatric diagnoses. We aim to determine if the pandemic resulted in significant changes in psychiatric hospitalization patterns in the Colquitt Regional Medical Center (CRMC) emergency department.

Methods:

This retrospective study utilized electronic medical record (EMR) data from CRMC. Admissions from pre-COVID (April 1, 2019 – December 31, 2019) were compared to those during COVID ( April 1, 2020 to December …

Massive Myocardial Infarction With Ventricular Rupture Following Laparoscopic Colectomy For Colorectal Cancer: A Devastating Complication, Siam Shabbir, Manuel Linarte, Sridhar Gona, Aaron George, Hugo Bonatti Jr

Research Day

Background: Laparoscopic surgery offers many advantages over open surgery and this includes colon resections both for benign and malignant diseases. Whereas surgical complications especially infections seem to be lower after the minimally invasive approach, the incidence of postoperative medical complications such as pulmonary embolism or myocardial infarction is not impacted. Massive myocardial infarction with ventricle rupture is an extremely rare and in almost all cases fatal condition. This has not been reported as a postoperative complication.

Case report: A 75 year old male developed stool irregularities and blood per rectum and during work up was found to have a malignant …

Hand Sanitizer Intoxication In Disguise: A Case Study, Evan Curry, Michael Nickasch, Heather Theibert

Research Day

Background

Hand Sanitizer intoxication often presents nonspecific symptoms like tachycardia, drowsiness, vomiting, and abdominal pain that can delay diagnosis and lead to more serious consequences like seizure and coma (Slaughter, 2014; Lacouture, 1983). This case describes a patient with sudden onset of altered mental status that resolved within 24 hour that was later found to be secondary to hand sanitizer intoxication.

Case

Patient is a 33-year-old female with history unspecified depressive disorder, alcohol dependence, and generalized anxiety disorder admitted to medicine floor in hospital for treatment of alcohol withdrawal. Patient was placed on CIWA protocol, given IV thiamine, and treated …

Addressing The Effects Of Stress On Menstrual Cycle Regularity And Symptoms: A Review Of Contributing Factors, Racial Disparities, And Lifestyle Interventions, Nahimie Louissaint, Saron Araya, Embre Martin, Jennifer Mitchell

Research Day

Introduction: Menstrual health is a critical aspect of overall well-being, yet many individuals experience cycle irregularities influenced by psychological and physiological stressors. Research suggests that both acute and chronic stressors can impact hormonal regulation, leading to menstrual disturbances. Despite growing evidence of this relationship, gaps remain in understanding the underlying mechanisms and effective interventions.

Objective: This literature review aims to examine the relationship between stress and menstrual irregularities by analyzing physiological mechanisms, psychological and lifestyle influences, and potential mitigation strategies.

Methods: A systematic review of peer-reviewed articles, clinical studies, and meta-analyses published in the past two decades was conducted using …

Robotic Assisted Repair Of A Concomitant Paraesophageal And Left Diaphragmatic Hernia, Krupesh G. Patel, Stephen Kavic, Mohammad Jamal, Hugo Bonatti Jr

Research Day

Background: The vast majority of diaphragmatic hernias in adults are repaired using the laparoscopic approach. The robotic platform is increasingly accepted by foregut surgeons. The most common diaphragmatic hernias are hiatal hernia, but defects may also occur at other sites. Concomitant combined defects are extremely rare and require special techniques including placement of a mesh.

Case report: A 65 y/o female presented with a large symptomatic paraesophageal hernia – her body mass index was 35kg/m2. She complained of gastroesophageal reflux despite using a proton pump inhibitor, regurgitation, epigastric and back pain, shortness of breath, and nocturnal coughing spells. She was …

Health Profiles, Risk Factors, And Timing Of First Prenatal Visits Among Colquitt County Residents: An Observational Study To Inform Educational Interventions, Nahimie Louissaint, Danielle Prier, Emeka Ikeakanam, Allison Tresner, Daniel York

Research Day

Introduction: Maternal health disparities remain a critical public health issue in rural Georgia, where limited healthcare access contributes to adverse pregnancy outcomes. Barriers such as provider shortages, transportation difficulties, and socioeconomic constraints delay prenatal care, increasing the risk of complications. This study examines patterns in prenatal care access, common health presentations, and pregnancy-related risk factors to inform targeted educational interventions.

Objective: This study aims to analyze health trends among pregnant women at Sterling Women's Center, focusing on risk factors, symptoms, and timing of initial prenatal visits, with the goal of improving maternal health literacy and care accessibility.

Methods: A retrospective …

The Impact Of Smoking On Ocular Health And Its Link To Lung Cancer, Maryam Ali, Debra Dougher

Research Day

Introduction

Smoking is a well-established risk factor for both ocular diseases and lung cancer, yet its impact on eye health remains underrecognized. Tobacco exposure contributes to oxidative stress, inflammation, and vascular damage, accelerating the progression of cataracts, age-related macular degeneration (AMD), diabetic retinopathy, and glaucoma. Emerging evidence suggests that ocular manifestations in chronic smokers may serve as early indicators of systemic diseases, including lung cancer. This study explores the interconnection between smoking-related ocular pathology and lung cancer, highlighting the potential role of ophthalmic evaluation in early disease detection.

Methods

A systematic literature review was conducted using PubMed, MEDLINE, and Google …

A Rare Splenic Artery Aneurysm In A 19-Year-Old Female, Bailey N. Belcher, Barkley D. Smith, Andres A. Brito, Ravi J. Shekarappa

Research Day

Introduction

Splenic Artery Aneurysm (SAA) is a visceral artery aneurysm affecting less than one percent of the general population. Most individuals affected are women in the 5th to 6th decade of life or those with pre-existing conditions including atherosclerosis, portal hypertension, and connective tissue disorders. In this case study we describe a 19-year-old with a splenic artery aneurysm without known comorbidities.

Methods

This is an observational case study. A comprehensive chart review of the patient’s medical chart was conducted. A literature review of relevant materials was then conducted in order to evaluate for prevalence of disease and corrective management.

Results …

How Adverse Childhood Trauma Affects Coping Behaviors And Anxiety In College Students During Covid-19: A Neurobiological Perspective, Harshita Yepuri, Amanda Gilmore, Laura Carruth, Ruschelle Leone

Research Day

The Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic has uprooted college students from the traditional college environment and placed additional stressors on them, yet its effects are still emerging. In the present study, 329 college students (Mage=19.74, SDage= 1.96) completed measures of generalized anxiety, behavioral coping, and adverse childhood experiences between July 2020 and March 2021 of the COVID-19 pandemic. It is hypothesized that more adverse childhood experiences would be associated with more maladaptive behavioral coping strategies. In addition, less adaptive coping strategies would be positively associated with more anxiety among college students. Results indicated that negative coping behaviors were associated with more …