Medicine and Health Sciences Commons^™

Case Report: Oral Contraceptives-Induced Cholestasis, Aura Calderon, Taiwo Ajani, Nayiri Derian, Catherine Matos, Ivan Mogollon, Andres Suarez

Research Symposium

Background: Oral contraceptives represent one of the most prevalently utilized pharmacological interventions for contraception, renowned for their safety and efficacy. However, their advantageous safety profile, these pharmaceuticals are intermittently correlated with infrequent yet significant hepatobiliary complications, including drug-induced cholestasis and hyperbilirubinemia1. The estrogenic constituents of oral contraceptives are recognized for their capacity to disrupt bile acid transport within the hepatic system, culminating in intrahepatic cholestasis2. This phenomenon is particularly alarming in individuals possessing inherent genetic susceptibilities, such as Dubin-Johnson Syndrome, wherein bilirubin metabolism and excretion are already adversely affected3. The identification and comprehension of these adverse effects are imperative for …

Transgenic Muc13 Overexpression Influenced Gut Microbiota And Chemokines Expression Profile In Mice, Swati Dhasmana, Anupam Dhasmana, Shweta Singh, Murali Yallapu, Sheema Khan, Subhash Chauhan

Research Symposium

Background: MUC13 has emerged as a potent oncoprotein and gained considerable attention. The overexpression or aberrant expression of MUC13 is strongly linked to cancer progression, and poor clinical outcomes in multiple malignancies, including colorectal cancer (CRC), however its precise mechanisms are not fully unfolded. Towards this, we have generated a MUC13 transgenic mice model and in this research, we have investigated the effect of transgenic MUC13 overexpression on gut microbiome, gut histology, and cytokine expression profile as recent studies have shown critical role of microbiome in cancer progression and cancer therapeutics.

Methods: In this study we sought to decipher the …

Assessing Social Determinants Of Health Training In Medical Education: A Literature Review Using Kirkpatrick’S Model, Surya Namboodiri, Chelsea Chang, Roque Mifuji Lira

Research Symposium

Background: Social determinants of health (SDOH) training is a critical component of medical education, equipping physicians to address factors such as economic stability, education, and health care access. Kirkpatrick’s model categorizes training outcomes into four levels—Reaction, Learning, Behavior, and Results—offering a validated framework to assess impact. Despite its importance, the evaluation of SDOH curricula often focuses on lower-level outcomes, such as learner satisfaction and knowledge assessment, with limited emphasis on behavioral change and patient outcomes.

By applying Kirkpatrick’s model, this study seeks to address evaluation in SDOH training evaluation and provide insights into designing effective curricula that produce measurable improvements …

Unraveling Genetic Links Between Diabetes And Heart Failure-A Machine Learning Approach, Sunakhi Sahoo, Marzieh Ayati

Research Symposium

Background: Diabetic heart failure (DHF) is defined as a chronic and progressive disease which is associated with both diabetes and heart failure (HF). Even though there have been many developments in the knowledge of these diseases, there is still much to learn about the genetic crossovers between the two. In this study, we identified genes that are associated with diabetic heart failure and heart failure by using gene expression data from patients with DHF, HF, and a control group of patients who died of natural causes. We sought to identify genes that had altered expression levels which could possibly play …

Anti-Nmda Receptor Encephalitis Associated With Ovarian Teratoma In A Pediatric Patient: A Case Report, Stephen M. Garcia, Eduardo Uribe Md

Research Symposium

Background: Anti-N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor (anti-NMDAR) encephalitis is a rare autoimmune condition caused by antibodies targeting NMDA receptors in the brain. The condition was first described in association with ovarian teratomas in 2005; however, it was in 2007 that the condition was further identified as an anti-NMDA receptor-mediated encephalitis. These antibodies disrupt synaptic function by internalizing NMDA receptors, leading to a wide range of neuropsychiatric symptoms such as mood changes, seizures, and autonomic dysfunction. The incidence of autoimmune encephalitis, including anti-NMDAR variants, has increased from 0.4 to 1.2/100,000 person-years over the past two decades due to improved detection of antibody-positive cases. Although …

Investing In Limb Preservation: A Case Report In Avoiding Bilateral Amputation In A Vasculopathy Patient, Stephanie N. Campbell, Craig J. Verdin, Heather V. Tran, Nikita Gambhir

Research Symposium

Background: Limb salvage and prosthetics play vital roles in restoring function and mobility for patients with severe injuries or metabolic conditions. Limb salvage involves surgical techniques aimed at preserving a limb rather than resorting to amputation, while prosthetics provide artificial devices to replace lost limbs. Key considerations for limb salvage include restoring a functional foot, maintaining patient independence, minimizing hospitalizations, and avoiding bilateral lower limb amputations.

Case Presentation: The patient, already at single-limb status, presented with a necrotic heel ulcer, exposed calcaneus, and necrotic Achilles tendon. After vascular optimization, the risks and benefits of final aggressive measures were discussed, leading …

Investigating The Ability Of Foxo1 To Maintain Stem Cells, Stella A. Rios, Megan E. Keniry

Research Symposium

Background: Our group discovered that FOXO transcription factors drive stem gene expression in cancer to promote aggressiveness. Work by our group and others demonstrated that FOXO factors universally maintain stem cells including in cancer, embryonic, hematogenic and neuronal contents. Our current efforts are delineating the molecular underpinnings by which FOXO factors halt differentiation to maintain stem cells.

In this project, we are employing myoblasts as a valuable model to examine how Foxo1 maintains stem cells. Foxo1-regulated genes in myoblasts closely parallel its targets in glioblastoma and basal breast cancer stem cells, including targets such as Leukemia Inhibitory Factor, …

Interlink Between Genomics By Gtex Portal And Gut Microbiome In Autism Spectrum Disorder, Sriya Gullapalli, Nina Mourao, Tori Sayers, Lois Baldado, Megan W. Szobody, Arjun Bellamkonda, Blake C. Martin, Kory D. Punch, Kevin Garcia Valdez, Anesu Karen Murambadoro, Miguel Quintanilla, Bethany Woolman, Kelsey Baker, Bharathi S. Gadad

Research Symposium

Background: Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by repetitive behaviors, social deficits, and highly restrictive sensory patterns which results from aberrant early-life central nervous system functioning. While ASD has been traditionally associated with molecular genetic alterations, emerging evidence underscores the role of environmental elements. In fact, pathologic genetic variations of key regulator genes coupled with environmental factors, such as: advanced maternal age, poor maternal health during pregnancy, gestational diabetes mellitus, and altered gut microbiome and/or secondary environmental challenges to the offspring in early childhood have all been attributed to increased risk of developing ASD. In efforts …

The Effect Of Co-Morbid Chronic Illnesses On The Outcomes Of Traumatic Intracranial Hemorrhage In The Rio Grande Valley: A Retrospective Analysis, Sowmya Duddu, Julia Paz, Andrea Argenal, Sonya Bhatia, Nina Mourao, Tori Sayers, Manoj Peiris, Kelsey Baker, Bharathi S. Gadad

Research Symposium

Introduction: Intracranial hemorrhage is bleeding occurring in or around the brain. The severity can range from mild to fatal with a variety of lasting symptoms. The severity and outcome depends on a number of factors such as the location, treatment, and pre-existing patient conditions. Previous studies have been done observing comorbidities in patients, such as hypertension or diabetes, and their role in intracranial hemorrhages. The purpose of this project is to identify how pre-existing health conditions, such as diabetes, hypertension, blood disorders, and more, influence the type and severity of intracranial hemorrhages.

Methods: A retrospective analysis was conducted …

Incidence Of Myocardial Infarction And Neurodegenerative Disease Co-Occurrence In The Rio Grande Valley: A Five-Year Retrospective Analysis, Sowmya Duddu, Maria Sophia Malbas, Allison Mcadams, Julia Paz, Miguel Quintanilla, Karina Zamora, Hansapani Rodrigo, Kelsey Baker

Research Symposium

Introduction: Neurodegenerative Diseases (NDDs) are a group of disorders leading to the degeneration of neurons causing varying degrees of functional loss. NDDs lead to a loss of independence for the patients and an emotional burden for the patients’ families or caretakers. Previous studies have shown that the prevalence of neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s Disease or Vascular Dementia is high in the Rio Grande Valley. Due to the severity of these diseases, research is currently being done to determine the factors that correlate with the development of neurodegenerative diseases and whether there is a causative effect. The purpose of …

Systematic Review Of Literature On Gender Affirming Surgical Procedures For Female To Male Transgender Patients, Sonya A. Bhatia, Julia Paz, Nina Mourao, Kelsey Baker, Bharathi Shrikanth Gadad

Research Symposium

Background: Many female to male (FTM) individuals that desire to live as male experience persistent psychological discomfort (e.g. gender dysphoria) related to anatomical sex. One method to change anatomical sex characteristics is top surgery. Top surgery, consisting of bilateral mastectomy and nipple-areola complex (NAC) placement, has been found to help alleviate gender dysphoria and improve quality of life. However, many techniques have been used to perform top surgery and standardized methods/recommendations are not currently available. Our goal was to analyze research on bilateral mastectomy and NAC to provide more optimal surgical gender-affirming care.

Methods: An electronic literature review …

Provider Perspectives On The Challenges And Opportunities In Managing Chronic Pain Among Patients With Hiv And A History Of Substance Use Disorder: A Qualitative Study, Sonya A. Bhatia, Isabella Iregui, Amy Knowlton, Tuo-Yen Tseng

Research Symposium

Background: Chronic pain is common in people living with HIV or opioid use disorder and is complex to clinically manage. Opioid dependence treatment, such as Suboxone (combined buprenorphine and naloxone), is associated with improved adherence to antiretroviral therapy, reduced opioid use, and lower overdose risk. While evidence suggests Suboxone can treat opioid use disorder and chronic pain concomitantly, its use as an analgesic remains off-label. Patients with these co-morbidities, especially prevalent among People of Color, are often underdiagnosed and undertreated . This study explored clinicians’ experiences and opinions on managing chronic pain in (mostly Black) persons living with HIV who …

Emergency Room Visits Of Incarcerated Individuals In Texas: A Retrospective Analysis Of Trauma-Related Admissions And Health Implications, Sonya A. Bhatia, Sowmya Duddu, Andrea Argenal, Julia Paz, Tori Sayers, Bharathi Shrikanth Gadad, Kelsey Baker

Research Symposium

Introduction: In 2024, the United States has the highest incarceration rate of any independent democracy. Texas has a higher incarceration rate than the US national average, with an incarceration rate of 751 people imprisoned per 100,000 citizens. Additionally, Texas prisons have become severely overcrowded; in June 2024, 41% of inmates had to be housed outside their county. Overcrowding has exacerbated the lack of adequate medical care for prisoners, and prisons’ hostile and ultimately unsafe environment. Despite the health risks, little research has been done on the utilization of emergency room visits by incarcerated individuals. This study aims to analyze emergency …

Disparities In Survival Among Skin Carcinoma Patients In South Texas Counties, Smaran Marupudi, Elias Villanueva Arellano, Natasha Quailes, Jared Hensley, Maria Villegas

Research Symposium

Background: Non-melanoma skin cancer (NMSC) is among the most common malignancies, yet survival outcomes vary widely across regions due to disparities in access to healthcare, socioeconomic factors, and public health infrastructure. The Lower Rio Grande Valley (LRGV) region of South Texas, encompassing Starr, Willacy, Cameron, and Hidalgo counties, is a predominantly Hispanic, medically underserved region where residents face systemic barriers to dermatologic care and early cancer detection. This study aims to evaluate survival disparities in NMSC patients between the LRGV and other Texas counties, emphasizing the need to address these inequities.

Methods: We conducted a retrospective cohort analysis using data …

Maximizing Dna Yield And Integrity From Limited Ffpe Tissue: A Breakthrough Approach For Advancing Cancer Genomics, Shweta Singh, Astrid Perez, Sierra Vidaurri, Anupam Dhasmana, Swati Dhasmana, Murali Mohan Yallapu, Subhash C. Chauhan, Sheema Khan

Research Symposium

Introduction: Archived FFPE tissue specimens are a valuable resource for advancing cancer-related health disparities research. Retrospectively collected tissues help minimize follow-up time and prevent delays in research progress. While kits for DNA purification from FFPE are readily available, challenges such as limited tissue in FFPE blocks lead to insufficient DNA yield, and suboptimal quality persists. In this article, we have optimized and standardized methods for purifying DNA with high yield and integrity, making it highly suitable for generating DNA libraries and conducting high-throughput sequencing, thereby enhancing the reliability and reproducibility of cancer genomics studies.

Materials and Methods: We employed two …

Microbiome Dynamics In Metabolic Dysfunction-Associated Steatotic Liver Disease Among Rio Grande Valley Hispanics, Shweta Singh, Sierra Vidaurri, Anupam Dhasmana, Swati Dhasmana, Bablu Kumar, Jacob Galan, Natasha Garcia-Rodriguez, Murali Mohan Yallapu, Subhash C. Chauhan, Sheema Khan

Research Symposium

Background: The Rio Grande Valley is a major hot spot for Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and liver diseases in the nation. Before the occurrence of HCC, the liver undergoes several complex changes, including metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) that encompasses a spectrum of diseases from simple steatosis to metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis (MASH), and cirrhosis. However, mechanisms associated with the progression of the disease are not yet fully known and characterized. Recent studies are suggesting a critical role of the microbiome in cancer progression and prevention. In this article, we sought to investigate bacterial colonization at the liver site that can …

Association Between Anxiety, Depression, And Acne In A Primarily Hispanic Population: A Retrospective Five-Year Analysis, Shiza Khan, Kaitlyn D. Ybanez, Maci D. Oestreich, Jennifer V. Escamilla, Kelsey A. Potter-Baker

Research Symposium

Background: Depression and anxiety are the two most prevalent mental health disorders in the United States and are frequently associated with significant psychological and physical effects. Emerging evidence indicates a correlation between mental health disorders and dermatological conditions, where hormonal imbalances can induce and exacerbate skin conditions. However, research exploring this correlation within predominantly Hispanic populations is limited. In this retrospective analysis, our objective was to determine the correlation between anxiety, depression, and acne diagnosis over the past five years, with the goal of uncovering potential disparities in ethnic and gender disparities in healthcare.

Methods: We obtained patient data of …

A Qualitative Approach To Identifying Obstacles To Mental Healthcare In The Rio Grande Valley From The Perspective Of Mental Healthcare Professionals., Shania M. Linder, Cristian Botello, Raquel Villarreal, Nelda Rodriguez, Mario Gil, Dayana Zamora

Research Symposium

Background: There are many factors that prevent members of the Hispanic/Latino community from accessing mental health resources. This is important to investigate because there is a lack of knowledge on why residents of the Rio Grande Valley, an underserved region of South Texas, are unable to access and/or utilize mental health resources.

Methods: A focus group session was held at a mental health counseling clinic in Cameron County, Texas on February 1, 2024. The participants consisted of mental health professionals, such as two mental health clinicians, a clinical counselor, two school counselors, a licensed professional counselor supervisor, and a …

Influence Of Epidemiological Factors On Gcs Score Of Traumatic Brain Injury Cases In Texas: A Five-Year Retrospective Analysis, Shalika Padhi, Mary Arden Guillory, Isabella Ortigoza, Ashlyn Holubar, Jocelyn Torres, Saloni Saldhi, Daniel Salinas, Kelsey Baker

Research Symposium

Background: Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is caused by an external force and can result in temporary or permanent brain function impairment. In 2019 and 2020, it was estimated that TBI resulted in ~220,000 hospitalizations and ~64,000 deaths in the United States making TBI a significant public health concern. Of note, patients living in the southern states have been shown to have the highest TBI related fatalities per 100,000 population, with Texas ranking second for the number of TBIs in the United States. Limited epidemiological studies have evaluated possible causes for the increased prevalence and severity of TBI in southern states. …

Studying The Significance Of Muc13 In Hepatocellular Carcinoma, Shabnam Malik, Mohammed Sikander, Daniel Zubieta, Parvez Khan, Murali M. Yallapu, Deepshikha P. Katare, S.K Jain, Meena Jaggi, Subhash C. Chauhan

Research Symposium

Background: Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is associated with a poor prognosis due to limited therapeutic options and a lack of early diagnostic markers. Recent studies have highlighted the elevated expression of mucin 13 as a potential oncogene and predictive biomarker in various cancers. However, its role in the development and progression of HCC remains largely unexplored. This study aimed to investigate the expression of mucin 13 in a chemically induced model of hepatocellular carcinoma.

Methodology: We employed a chemically induced model of hepatocellular carcinoma in Male Wistar rats using diethyl nitrosamine and 2-acetylaminofluorene. Serum and tissue samples were collected at …

Exploring Cucurbitacin D'S Protective Mechanism Against Benzo[A]Pyrene-Induced Liver Injury Through Nrf2 Activation, Shabnam Malik, Mohammed Sikander, Anyssa Rodriguiez, Daniel Zubieta, Debanhi Esparaza, Fathi T. Halaweish, Sheema Khan, Murali M. Yallapu, Meena Jaggi, Subhash C. Chauhan

Research Symposium

Background: Numerous studies have established a strong association between hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and various co-morbidity factors, including smoking. Tobacco smoke is a significant source of benzo[a]pyrene, a highly carcinogenic compound known to cause liver damage. Cucurbitacin, a triterpene with diverse biological activities, exhibits antioxidant, antiinflammatory, and anticancer effects. However, its hepatoprotective properties have not been thoroughly investigated. In this study, we aimed to evaluate the hepatoprotective effects of cucurbitacin D, a novel analog of cucurbitacin, against liver injury induced by benzo[a]pyrene in human HepG2 cells.

Method: To investigate the hepatoprotective effect of cucurbitacin D against benzo[a]pyreneinduced liver damage, proliferation, clonogenicity, …

Who Leaves Orthopedics? Analyzing Attrition Among Texas Orthopedic Surgeons, Sean Corcoran, Anesu Karen Murambadoro, Paul Bonilla, Victoria Elizondo, Tori Sayers, Daniela Ramos, Mark Manickath

Research Symposium

Background: Nationally, attrition rates in surgical specialties have been reported to be as high as 20-26%. As of 2019, women comprised only 6.5% of the 29,613 orthopedic surgeons. Female residents showed significantly higher overall attrition rates compared to males (5.96% vs. 2.79%, p < 0.001), with unintended attrition nearly twice as high (2.09% vs. 1.01%, p < 0.001). Attrition can result from a wide array of variables, including sex, ethnicity, education, and background. The aim of this study was to evaluate the demographic and educational factors associated with career longevity beyond training among orthopedic surgeons, with a focus on identifying patterns of attrition in underrepresented groups.

Methods: Data from the Texas Medical Board Physician Database as of September 2024 was evaluated using Microsoft Excel. To determine length of practice, the date of license issuance was subtracted from the date of license expiration. Surgeons with license expirations after 2024 were excluded to maintain a focus on physicians that are no longer practicing. Entries …

Influence Of Epidemiological Factors On Eye Injuries In Texas: A Five-Year Retrospective Analysis, Saloni Saldhi, Ashlyn Holubar, Jocelyn Torres, Isabella Ortigoza, Shalika Padhi, Mary Arden Guillory, Daniel Salinas, Kelsey Baker

Research Symposium

Background: Eye injuries in the United States represent a significant public health concern with their potential to cause long-term disability, economic burden, and reduced quality of life. Injuries to the eye can range from minor abrasions to severe contusions, lacerations, and fractures, with some leading to permanent vision loss. Preliminary data also suggests disparities in the availability of ophthalmologists across Texas cities which raises the question of whether cities with higher rates of eye injuries are staffed with enough specialists. In Texas, where the population is both geographically and demographically diverse, understanding the epidemiological factors behind eye injuries is crucial …

Evaluation Of Mucin 13 Expression As A Target For Radioimmunotherapy: One Step Closer To A Radionuclide Theranostic Strategy For Colorectal Cancer, Ryan P. Coll, Aiko Yamaguchi, Jianbo Wang, Robert T. Ta, Subhash C. Chauhan, H. Charles Manning

Research Symposium

Background: Colorectal cancer (CRC) remains one of the most diagnosed and deadliest forms of cancer worldwide. The high rate of encountered cases with distant metastatic presentation, a major contributor to CRC’s high mortality, presents a need for a molecular-based, selective strategy towards CRC treatment and management. To realize this, an antibody-based theranostic approach is under evaluation using a monoclonal antibody targeting the glycoprotein mucin 13 (MUC13), known for its aberrant expression, glycosylation patterns, and localization in CRC cells associated with tumorigenic properties. With tumor-specific uptake in high MUC13-expressing CRC xenografts previously reported in PET experiments after antibody labeling with positron-emitting …

Evaluating The Potential Of Herbal Extracts As Treatment In Immune Thrombocytopenia: A Review Of Evidence And Limitations, Russell Wiggins, Jihoo Woo, John Cauba, Shizue Mito

Research Symposium

Immune thrombocytopenia, formerly idiopathic thrombocytopenia purpura (ITP), is an autoimmune disease characterized by the depletion of platelets below 100,000/µl when other causes of thrombocytopenia have been ruled out. It is associated with several infectious pathologies, disease states, and as a known side effect and complication of several drugs and chemotherapies. Standard treatment calls for glucocorticoid mediated immunosuppression, intravenous immunoglobin transfusion, platelet stimulation, platelet transfusion, and splenectomy in instances of chronic and severe disease. While standard treatments are often effective, some cases prove resistant, and more commonly, some patients are unable to tolerate standard treatment protocols or opt out of surgical …

Glucose Metabolism And Ldha Expression Are Modulated By Lncrna In Colorectal Cancer., Salique Hassan Shaham, Ricardo Pequeno Bracho, Manish Kumar Tripathi

Research Symposium

Abstract: Colorectal cancer (CRC) ranks as the third most commonly diagnosed malignancy globally and is the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the United States. In 2024, an estimated 152,810 new cases of CRC are projected, with 53,010 fatalities. The prognosis for metastatic CRC (mCRC) remains grim, with a survival rate of less than 15%. Urothelial cancer-associated 1 (UCA1), a long noncoding RNA (lncRNA), is dysregulated in CRC and has been implicated in tumor progression. Our research highlights significantly elevated UCA1 expression in metastatic CRC cells, where its association with the GLUT1 and the metabolic enzyme lactate dehydrogenase A …

Improving Niclosamide's Effectiveness In Cancer Therapy: Advances In Drug Modification And Delivery, Russell Wiggins, Jihoo Woo, Shizue Mito

Research Symposium

The property of niclosamide to inhibit multiple cancer-related pathways has made it a promising candidate for the treatment of various cancers. However, poor bioavailability and solubility have significantly restricted its clinical application. This literature review explores various strategies that enhance the bioavailability and efficacy of Niclosamide through the development of Niclosamide derivatives and the utilization of drug delivery systems. We also briefly discuss Niclosamide’s suspected mechanisms of action in several cancer related pathways. Derivatives such as Niclosamide Ethanolamine (NEN) and Niclosamide Piperazine (NPP) have demonstrated improved pharmacokinetic properties, including increased solubility and bioavailability, without compromising anticancer activity. Importantly, these formulations …

Predictive Value Of Speckle-Tracking Strain Imaging In Risk Stratification Of Post-Myocardial Infarction Heart Failure, Ronald A. Shaju, Alyssa L. Sepulveda, Yolanda V. Gutierrez, Melissa M. Cruz

Research Symposium

Background: Heart failure (HF) is a feared complication of myocardial infarction (MI). It contributes to a poor prognosis and has a high morbidity. In patients with heart failure, it’s important to track progress and identify signs of heart failure as early as possible. Speckle-tracking strain imaging (STSI) is a novel echocardiographic technique that has emerged as a valuable technique for identifying myocardial dysfunction and predicting the progression of heart failure. This is done by measuring the amount the myocardium deforms in relation to the original length during contraction and relaxation. This is done by measuring the natural acoustic “speckles” in …

Fostering Nurse Engagement Through A Symposium Viewing Party, Karis Pickett

Providence Nursing Research Conference 2023 – Present

No abstract provided.

Addressing Nurses Burnout Through Zen Den Implementation, Wendy Vaquerano, Crystal Tribble, Kathleen Tubridy

Providence Nursing Research Conference 2023 – Present

No abstract provided.