Medicine and Health Sciences Commons^™

Early Intervention In Helminth Infections: Investigating Albendazole’S Effects On C. Elegans Egg Hatch Rate And Health, Giselle Domingo Diaz

Student Scholar Symposium

Over 1.5 billion of the poorest people are infected with soil-transmitted helminths (STH) such as whipworm, hookworm, and Ascaris which have devastating effects on human growth, nutrition, and cognition, perpetuating the cycle of poverty. The World Health Organization only approves four anthelmintic drugs to treat STH for mass drug administration (MDA), with Albendazole being the drug of choice. Due to these drugs only having two mechanisms of action, resistance to these drugs has been reported over the years. We aim to better understand STH susceptibility to drugs at multiple points in their life stage. Previously, the effects of Albendazole and …

What Are The Global Differences In Air Quality Due To The Covid-19 Pandemic?, Jude Spencer, Ian Mcgee, Brandon Solis-Martinez

Student Scholar Symposium

The COVID-19 pandemic led to unprecedented global disruptions, including significant changes in air quality due to lockdown measures, reduced industrial activity, and shifts in transportation patterns. Air pollution, primarily from nitrogen oxides (NOₓ), carbon dioxide (CO₂), and particulate matter (PM2.5), is a major environmental and public health concern. While some studies suggest temporary improvements in air quality during lockdowns, long-term impacts remain uncertain across different regions. To examine this, we investigated the research question: "What are the global differences in air quality due to the Covid-19 pandemic?" Using peer-reviewed studies from the Greenfile and ScienceDirect databases, along with EPA data, …

Validating Pharmacogenomics Generative Artificial Intelligence Query Prompts Using Retrieval-Augmented Generation (Rag), Ashley Rector, Beth Breeden, Jay Dorris

Student Scholar Symposium

This study evaluated the performance of Sherpa Rx, an artificial intelligence platform leveraging large language models and retrieval-augmented generation (RAG) for pharmacogenomics, by validating its performance across key response metrics. Sherpa Rx integrated Clinical Pharmacogenetics Implementation Consortium (CPIC) guidelines with Pharmacogenomics Knowledgebase (PharmGKB) data to generate contextually relevant responses. A dataset (N=260 queries) spanning 26 CPIC guidelines was used to evaluate drug-gene interactions, dosing recommendations, and therapeutic implications. In Phase 1, only CPIC data was embedded; Phase 2 additionally incorporated PharmGKB. Responses were scored on accuracy, relevance, clarity, completeness (5-point Likert scale), and recall. Wilcoxon signed-rank tests compared accuracy between …

Bcl-2 Regulation As Seen In Alzheimer's Disease, Whitley Whitehead, Joseph Marek, Jack Lowry, Parker Shirley

Student Scholar Symposium

Alzheimer’s Disease (AD) is a degenerative and destructive disorder causing progressive impairment and loss of the nerve cells, eventually leading to further impairments of cognitive functions. Calcium ions (Ca2+) are vital for cell signaling and muscle contraction. The Bcl-2 protein family helps regulate cell death by controlling the release of Ca2+ from the ER. Bcl-2 can also block pro-apoptotic proteins from puncturing the mitochondria and causing intrinsic apoptosis. In AD, the presence of amyloid-beta plaques and neurofibrillary tangles downregulates Bcl-2 production. The loss of Bcl-2 leads to mitochondrial damage, heightened calcium levels, and oxidative stress. Although there is no cure …

How Ot Is Improving Aspects Of Daily Living In Children With Asd: An Integrated Review, Elizabeth Mearse, Reagan Mcgee, Elshaday Solomon, Zoe Curtis, Larissa Brooks

Student Scholar Symposium

This presentation aims to show how affective Occupational therapy is in improving aspects of daily living in children under 18.

“In A Relationship”: Can Ai Take The Place Of A Human Relationship?, Hannah Smith

Student Scholar Symposium

This research explores the impact of AI on adolescent development, specifically focusing on how large-language models (LLMs) influence the way adolescents approach and value human connections. While AI can offer some benefits, it cannot fully replace the essential elements of human relationships, such as empathy, creativity, and emotional understanding, which are fundamental to a fulfilled life.

Myocardial Pi3k-Akt Pathway And Cardiovascular Disease Etiology, Bryson Lovorn, Brennan Kaplan

Student Scholar Symposium

Cardiovascular diseases (CVD) are the leading causes of death in the United States according to recent data from the Center for Disease Control (CDC). Myocardial infarctions, heart attacks, Coronary Artery Disease, ischemic reperfusion injuries, and hypertrophic cardiomyopathies represent common pathologies leading to the hospitalization of Americans. The etiologies of these diseases vary, however there is a common link. The phosphatidylinositol-3-kinase (PI3K) AKT pathway is a cellular pathway that is commonly overexpressed or repressed in myocytes. The human body is in an active limbo to maintain homeostasis. At a cellular level this can be simplified to a delicate balance between cell …

Hyperbaric Chambers For College Athletes, Alex Pinkston

Student Scholar Symposium

The use of hyperbaric chambers is gaining attention as a beneficial treatment for college athletes, offering a healthier alternative to more common, yet riskier, performance-enhancing drugs (PEDs) and modern pharmaceuticals. While professional athletes often have the financial resources to afford hyperbaric therapy, college athletes face similar intensive training regimens but frequently turn to harmful substances to enhance recovery and performance due to limited access to alternative treatments. This research explores the potential of hyperbaric chambers to support the physical and mental well-being of college athletes, highlighting their role in reducing recovery time, enhancing tissue repair, and improving overall performance. Furthermore, …

In Pregnant Women, What Is The Effect Of Nutritional Guidance And Intervention On Maternal And Fetal Health Outcomes Compared With Standard Or No Nutritional Counseling Within The Prenatal And Postpartum Period?, Kaitlyn Boyer, Ainsley Cash, Mallye Merritt, Meagan Enbody

Student Scholar Symposium

No abstract provided.

Effect Of Nutritional Guidance And Intervention On Maternal And Fetal Health Outcomes, Kaitlyn Boyer, Meagan Enbody, Mallye Merritt, Ainsley Cash

Student Scholar Symposium

Title: Effect of nutritional guidance and intervention on maternal and fetal health outcomes

Short Title: Impact of nutrition guidance on maternal and fetal health

Keywords: nutritional guidance, pregnancy, pregnancy outcomes, maternal and fetal health, nutrition teaching

Association Between The Diet Of Adolescents In America And The Prevalence Of Depression Found Within This Population, Mary Hoffman, Belinda Asamoah, Fadeyemi Okewusi

Student Scholar Symposium

Poor nutrition and lack of physical activity increase the risk of chronic mental and physical health conditions such as depression and obesity in American adolescents. Depression is the leading mental illness found in adolescents across the United States and less than 1 in 10 children eat their recommended vegetables, only 16 % of adolescents meet U.S. physical activity guidelines, 36.3% consume fast food on a given day, and as many as 20% are obese. These numbers show a rapid rise along with the availability of fast food. Multiple studies examine the relationship between healthy nutrition and the signs and symptoms …

Emergence Delirium In Post-Op Pediatric Patients With Pharmacological And Non-Pharmacological Care: An Integrative Review, Ava Yune, Chloe Renaldi, Morgan Taylor, Jennarose Rangel, Alysa Penicaro

Student Scholar Symposium

No abstract provided.

The Effects Of Probiotics And The Low-Fodmap Diet On Symptoms Of Irritable Bowel Syndrome, Charlotte A. Renfrow, Carsyn Wharton, Jordan Overstreet, Jordyn Munch

Student Scholar Symposium

The Effects of Probiotics and the Low-FODMAP Diet on Symptoms of Irritable Bowel Syndrome

Keywords: gut microbiome, probiotics, low FODMAP, IBS

Sugar Sweetened Beverages And Dental Caries Prevalence In Children: An Integrative Review, Caroline Carr, Hailey Servin, Jada Davita, Addie Clementz, Bekah Doolittle

Student Scholar Symposium

Are children who consume sugar-sweetened beverages (SSBs) at increased risk for dental caries compared with children who don’t consume high SSBs during childhood? It has been previously established that children who consume (SSBs) are at an increased risk for dental caries. Nonetheless, we raise the question again to consider the current literature and statistical analyses of current trends. Are American children consuming fewer SSBs and subsequently developing fewer dental caries since before 2000? We are investigating this question to discover if the relationship between SSB consumption and the development of dental caries in children is a continued problem among children …

The Treatment Of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (Pcos) Using Synthetic Hormone Therapy Versus Holistic Approaches: An Integrative Review, Sarah Mullin, Olivia Matis, Olivia Fair, Emma Joy Dolan, Jennifer Hicks

Student Scholar Symposium

Is synthetic hormone therapy more effective in treating PCOS compared to holistic approaches such as acupuncture, herbal medicine, supplements, and microbiome support?

Neonatal Immune System Development And Infection Susceptibility Within The First 6 Months After Vaginal Versus Cesarean Section Delivery: An Integrative Review, Lauren Ford, Jordan Lanham, Itzel Romo, Kelsey Olson, Leydi Ortiz-Barcenas, Jennifer Hicks

Student Scholar Symposium

No abstract provided.

Mitral Valve Surgery Outcomes, Post-Robotic Assisted Surgery, Compared To Traditional Surgical Procedures: An Integrative Review, Joshua Laborete, Jenna Grace Young, Hannah Fitzgerald, Dylan Crowder, Madelyn Lam, Presely Radar

Student Scholar Symposium

No abstract provided.

Neurofeedback: An Emerging Contender In The Treatment Of Mental And Behavioral Disorders, Makayla Fisher

Student Scholar Symposium

Neurofeedback, an emerging treatment for mental and behavioral disorders, has shown promising results as a holistic alternative to traditional therapy and medication. This treatment was discovered in the 1950s by using an electroencephalography (EEG) device to train people to achieve an alpha state using the reward of a bell sound. Currently, the basis of neurofeedback is using an EEG device that is connected to a video, such as television, to receive positive or negative feedback, corresponding to beneficial or non-beneficial brain activity. After 3-4 weeks of the video dimming in response to non- beneficial brain activity, your brain starts to …

Quantum Rings Simulations Of Cisplatin, Clinton Hutchins, Laci Walmer

Student Scholar Symposium

Cisplatin is a major chemotherapy drug that relies on a platinum-based core to deliver the properties necessary to combat cancer. This platinum-based core creates an undesired toxicity that poses challenges during treatment. The aim of this research is to employ quantum simulations to explore the stability of biochemicals such as cisplatin and predict their binding affinities for targets of interest. Variational Quantum Eigensolver (VQE) simulations are used to explore if the substitution of a core like Au or Pd are possible to retain anticancer efficacy but reduce its toxicity. With the use of these quantum simulations, we can run different …

Spilling The Tea: Effects Of Uv Disinfection On Bioactive Compounds In South African Rooibos Tea, Sora Ghanem, Leah Ankiah, Yusra Ahmed

Student Scholar Symposium

This study investigated the effects of ultraviolet (UV) light disinfection on key bioactive flavonoid compounds in rooibos tea (Aspalathus linearis). There is an interest in non-thermal food preservation technologies, and UV treatment offers potential advantages for beverage processing. However, concerns exist regarding possible degradation of health-promoting compounds during treatment. Rooibos tea samples were subjected to five UV exposure intensities (0, 25, 50, 75, and 100 mJ/cm²), and concentrations of four major flavonoids (aspalathin, orientin, vitexin, and rutin) were measured using high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). Surprisingly, most flavonoids showed stability or slight concentration increases at higher UV doses. Aspalathin concentrations …

Assessing Malnutrition In A Clinical Setting Using Hand Grip Strength, Rachel King, Annie Sternbergh

Student Scholar Symposium

Student Scholars Symposium

Exploration Of Euclidean Distances In Five-Dimensional Color Space As Proof-Of-Concept For Identification Of Promising Alternatives To Platinum-Based Cancer Drug Candidates, Kiomi Tanakura, Elena G. Harvey

Student Scholar Symposium

Cisplatin, cis-Pt(NH₃)₂Cl₂, is one of the most successful anticancer drugs of all time. However, it has some negative aspects, including toxicity to healthy cells, side effects, and cost. Our goal in this project is to design metal-based anticancer drugs that would be less expensive, less toxic, and more efficient for cancer patients than cisplatin. To begin this research we calculated Euclidean distances - as used by computerized recognition systems - to compare the properties of colors within seasonal palettes that are proven and visible to the eye. These Euclidean distances were then used …

Effect Of Sugar Alternatives In Dairy Free Coconut Milk Based Ice Cream On Sensory Characteristics And Acceptability, Maggie Hegg, Remi Petty, Jay Joie Edwards

Student Scholar Symposium

Student scholars symposium

Unveiling Hidden Hazards: A Complementary Approach To Affordable Non-Destructive Heavy Metal Detection, Mario Faragalla, Gulsin Barwari, Makenzie Brinkoeter, Eimy Lozano-Fuentes, Isabelle Riera

Student Scholar Symposium

History has bestowed upon us vast treasures, with the Victorian Era offering a wealth of gifts, such as vibrant art and even secrets preserved in books of this period. However, concealed within the pigments that bring these works to life lie heavy metals. Not only do they pose significant health risks, but they can also be found within these pieces centuries later. Intrigued by the Winterthur project, Beaman librarians, Jan Cohu and Kayla Rutledge, discovered that our library housed some of these Victorian Era books. From there, the Beaman staff sent an inquiry to the chemistry department and Dr. Weinstein-Webb …

The Correlation Of Fat Mass And Hourly Energy Balance In Male And Female Collegiate Basketball Players, Lily Rogers, Avery Mckinney

Student Scholar Symposium

Student Scholars Symposium

6ppd-Quinone In Middle Tennessee Waters: Assessing Ecological Impact, Andrew Davis Todd, Raphael Marquise Chandler, Kerolos Gerges Basalos, Denise Lori Loewinger

Student Scholar Symposium

This poster presents the dangers of a toxic chemical used on car tires that is entering aquatic ecosystems and harming fish populations.

Acceptance And Commitment Therapy: A Treatment Option For Substance Use Disorders, Miriam N. Mukasa, Ashley Yaugher, Ty Aller

All Current Publications

There are many evidence-based treatments for individuals experiencing substance use disorders (SUDs) that support both individuals and families. Psychological treatments are effective for a wide range of SUDs, making them a key approach for helping people with differing needs. This fact sheet provides information on treatments and provides more detail about acceptance and commitment therapy as a SUD treatment support.

Viral Warriors: Unlocking The Immune System’S Potential With Oncolytic Viruses In Cancer Immunotherapy, Reza Ghavimi, Leila Rahimian, Mohsen Mohammadi, Ojasvi Dutta, Harikrishnan Mohan, Vladimir Chouljenko, Tolulope O. Omolekan, Jean Christopher Chamcheu, Konstantin G. Kousoulas

Faculty Publications

Oncolytic viruses (OVs) represent an exciting avenue in tumor immunotherapy, harnessing the power of viruses to overcome resistance and enhance immune responses. OVs achieve this by selectively targeting and destroying tumor cells. This cell lysis releases tumor-specific antigens (TAAs), effectively creating an in situ vaccine that educates the immune system. Moreover, OVs directly trigger both innate and adaptive immunity and can be genetically engineered to secrete immune-boosting factors. Early studies have shown promising synergistic antitumor effects when OVs are combined with other cancer therapies or immunotherapies. A key advantage of OVs is their capacity to reprogram the tumor microenvironment (TME), …

Shaping Oman’S Child Health Future By 2040: Key Projections For Population And Workforce In Developmental-Behavioural Paediatrics, Watfa Al-Mamari, Ahmed B. Idris, Rola Al-Balushi, Kamila Al-Alawi, Saquib Jalees, Ahmed Al-Saidi

Sultan Qaboos University Medical Journal

No abstract provided.

Status Of Training In The Use Of Lumen-Apposing Metal Stents For Therapeutic Endoscopic Ultrasound During Advanced Endoscopy Fellowship: A Survey Questionnaire, Yasi Xiao, Maham Hayat, Abdul S. Mohammed, Abdullah Abbasi, Sagar Pathak, Saurabh Chandan, Daryl Ramai, Deepanshu Jain, Muhammad K. Hasan, Mustafa A. Arain, Kambiz K. Kadkhodayan, Natalie Cosgrove, Dennis Yang

Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology Faculty Papers

Background and Aims The lumen-apposing metal stent (LAMS) has revolutionized endoscopic ultrasound (EUS). However, there is a paucity of data on the optimal approaches to training on the use of LAMSs. This survey study aimed to evaluate the status of training in LAMSs among advanced endoscopy fellowship (AEF) trainees. Methods AEF (academic year 2023-2024) trainees were invited to complete a 15-question survey on LAMS training. The questions included the following domains: demographics, exposure to LAMSs before AEF, number of observed and hands-on participation using LAMSs for EUS-guided pancreatic fluid collection drainage (EUS-PFCD), choledochoduodenostomy (EUS-CD), gallbladder drainage (EUS-GBD), and gastrojejunostomy (EUS-GJ) …