Medicine and Health Sciences Commons^™

The Effects Of Moderate Prenatal Alcohol Exposure On Kappa Opioid Receptor Expression Across Development In Rats, Margaret Agajanov, Kelcie Schatz

Undergraduate Honors Theses

Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder is an umbrella term that describes the host of symptoms that may result from prenatal alcohol exposure (PAE). The incidence of anxiety disorders in children exposed to moderate PAE (mPAE) is twice that seen in children exposed to low amounts. mPAE animal models demonstrate anxiety-like behaviors reflective of those seen in humans exposed to mPAE. Gestational day 12 (G12) in rats is a period during which the amygdala is undergoing significant development. Past studies suggest that mPAE during G12 is implicated in the anxiety-like behavior observed in rats. The basolateral amygdala is part of the anxiety …

Feeding Deficits Contributing To Picky Eating, Olivia Paige Allen, Brianna Paige Pestrosky, Caitlyn Shaffer

Graduate Student Scholarship

Children are often known as picky eaters but many aspects contribute to feeding that one may not be aware of. These factors include sensory, oral motor, behavioral, neuromuscular, social skills, developmental readiness, and functional feeding skills. This study analyzes the aspects of feeding that contribute to picky eating and examines why some aspects may contribute more than others. The study will be conducted through the use of observation and standardized occupational therapy assessments while looking at children ages 2-10 years old. The goal of the study is to increase the knowledge of picky eating by relating it to the various …

Myadm Binds Human Parechovirus 1 And Is Essential For Viral Entry, Wenjie Qiao, Christopher M Richards, Youlim Kim, James R Zengel, Siyuan Ding, Harry B Greenberg, Jan E Carette

2020-Current year OA Pubs

Human parechoviruses (PeV-A) are increasingly being recognized as a cause of infection in neonates and young infants, leading to a spectrum of clinical manifestations ranging from mild gastrointestinal and respiratory illnesses to severe sepsis and meningitis. However, the host factors required for parechovirus entry and infection remain poorly characterized. Here, using genome-wide CRISPR/Cas9 loss-of-function screens, we identify myeloid-associated differentiation marker (MYADM) as a host factor essential for the entry of several human parechovirus genotypes including PeV-A1, PeV-A2 and PeV-A3. Genetic knockout of MYADM confers resistance to PeV-A infection in cell lines and in human gastrointestinal epithelial organoids. Using immunoprecipitation, we …

Patlak Slope Versus Standardized Uptake Value Image Quality In An Oncologic Pet/Ct Population: A Prospective Cross-Sectional Study, Semra Ince, Richard Laforest, Malak Itani, Vikas Prasad, Saeed Ashrafinia, Anne M Smith, Richard L Wahl, Tyler J Fraum

2020-Current year OA Pubs

Patlak slope (PS) images have the potential to improve lesion conspicuity compared with standardized uptake value (SUV) images but may be more artifact-prone. This study compared PS versus SUV image quality and hepatic tumor-to-background ratios (TBRs) at matched time points. Early and late SUV and PS images were reconstructed from dynamic positron emission tomography (PET) data. Two independent, blinded readers scored image quality metrics (a four-point Likert scale) and counted tracer-avid lesions. Hepatic lesions and parenchyma were segmented and quantitatively analyzed. Differences were assessed via the Wilcoxon signed-rank test (alpha, 0.05). Forty-three subjects were included. For overall quality and lesion …

An Update On Implant-Associated Malignancies And Their Biocompatibility, Grace C Keane Tahmaseb, Alexandra M Keane, Jose A Foppiani, Terence M Myckatyn

2020-Current year OA Pubs

Implanted medical devices are widely used across various medical specialties for numerous applications, ranging from cardiovascular supports to orthopedic prostheses and cosmetic enhancements. However, recent observations have raised concerns about the potential of these implants to induce malignancies in the tissues surrounding them. There have been several case reports documenting the occurrence of cancers adjacent to these devices, prompting a closer examination of their safety. This review delves into the epidemiology, clinical presentations, pathological findings, and hypothesized mechanisms of carcinogenesis related to implanted devices. It also explores how the surgical domain and the intrinsic properties and biocompatibility of the implants …

Fighting Fire And Fumes: Risk Awareness And Protective Practices Among Western Australian Firefighters, Kiam Padamsey, Ruth Wallace, Adelle Liebenberg, Martyn Cross, Jacques Oosthuizen

Research outputs 2022 to 2026

Background: In Western Australia, the issue of bushfires (wildfires) poses a persistent health risk to both volunteer and career forestry firefighters, populations that have been historically understudied. Aims: This descriptive qualitative study aimed to examine firefighters' level of understanding concerning hazardous exposures, their Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) protocols and their decontamination practices. Methods: Guided by the socioecological model, 23 semi-structured interviews were conducted with firefighters representing both volunteer and forestry sectors. Key results: Results indicate a gap in knowledge regarding the health risks associated with bushfire-generated smoke and contaminants among volunteer firefighters. Forestry firefighters, conversely, showed a greater awareness of …

Policymaker’S Perspectives And Student Experiences Of Bullying At Schools In The Uae: A Mixed-Method Approach, Alfan Saghayir Alketbi

Thesis/ Dissertation Defenses

Bullying is a significant issue in schools worldwide, including in the UAE. This dissertation aims to explore the dynamics of school bullying and improve anti-bullying interventions through a mixedmethod approach. The primary goal is to investigate current anti-bullying efforts in the UAE and identify a comprehensive framework for school-based bullying intervention, considering policymaker perspectives and student experiences. The study includes a systematic scoping review, qualitative studies with policymakers, a SWOT analysis of Abu Dhabi's anti-bullying approaches, and a crosssectional survey of students' perceptions, attitudes, and awareness in Al-Ain City. These methods provide an integrated view of bullying in the UAE …

Restorative Parks And Emotional Wellbeing In Camden City, Nj, Benjamin Woodward, Hannah Genereux, Jonathan Hansel, Mahbubur Meenar

STEM Student Research Symposium Posters

The content presented in this poster is associated with two projects that focus on the intersection of restorative park design and the emotional and mental wellbeing of park users within the context of the City of Camden, NJ, a community that has faced environmental injustices for many decades. Both projects are initiated by the Rowan University Community Planning + Visualization Lab, with one funded by NASA and the other by the Rowan University Catalyst Grant program. Collaborators include Rowan students, faculty, as well as researchers from external entities, both national and international. Additionally, the Rowan University Planning Studio 2023 participated …

Sensory Exploration Curriculum Development For Individuals With Intellectual And Developmental Disabilities At Friends Life Community, Caroline F. Stegall

OTD Capstone Projects

This project served to promote sensory strategies among participants at a day program for adults with disabilities. Using an occupational therapy lens, a sensory exploration-based curriculum and collaborative efforts for a sensory room on site were developed.

The Impact Of Parent And Caregiver Perceptions Of Inclusivity Regarding The Concepts Of Inclusive Playgrounds​, Cydnee M. Bacci

OTD Capstone Projects

This capstone was completed in partnership with Recreational Concepts, LLC and Ingrid Kanics OTR/L, FOATA, CPSI. The purpose of this project was to collect current and accurate data regarding parent and caregiver perceptions of inclusive play throughout the Middle Tennessee area. The inclusive playgrounds that participated in this study were Mary’s Magical Place, Henslee Park, and the Thisbe and Noah Promise Park Foundation. Current literature highlights the fact that a sizeable gap exists regarding who is using inclusive playgrounds and if they are properly facilitating inclusive play. Obtaining a deeper understanding of how inclusive playgrounds are being used leads to …

Nashville Dolphins Water Safety Awareness Project, Evan D. Eidson

OTD Capstone Projects

This doctoral capstone project was completed with Nashville Dolphins. The Nashville Dolphins offer free learn to swim lessons and swim team programs for children and adults with disabilities at no cost. The organization serves over 300 swimmers in the learn to swim classes and over 100 swimmers on their swim team. The programs are run by volunteers. The focus of this project was to develop programming resources to raise awareness of water safety and the steps for the Nashville Dolphins to help lower statistics of drowning rates. Deliverables provided to the organization include PowerPoint presentation to be sent to parents …

Comparison Of Four In Vitro Test Methods To Assess Nucleus Pulposus Replacement Device Expulsion Risk, Tamanna Rahman, Matthew J. Kibble, Gianluca Harbert, Nigel Smith, Erik Brewer, Nicholas Newell

Rowan-Virtua School of Translational Biomedical Engineering & Sciences Departmental Research

Background: Nucleus replacement devices (NRDs) are not routinely used in clinic, predominantly due to the risk of device expulsion. Rigorous in vitro testing may enable failure mechanisms to be identified prior to clinical trials; however, current testing standards do not specify a particular expulsion test. Multiple methods have therefore been developed, complicating comparisons between NRD designs. Thus, this study assessed the effectiveness of four previously reported expulsion testing protocols; hula-hoop (Protocol 1), adapted hula-hoop (Protocol 2), eccentric cycling (Protocol 3), and ramp to failure (Protocol 4), applied to two NRDs, one preformed and one in situ curing. Methods: Nucleus material …

Development Of A Sensory-Friendly Environment: A Room For Children Diagnosed With Autism, Myles Gramling, Phyllis Ross

Howard University, Department of Occupational Therapy Capstone and Faculty Research

Date: 04/23/2025

Student Name: Myles Gramling

Capstone Project Title: Development of a Sensory-Friendly Environment: A Room for Children Diagnosed with Autism

Capstone Faculty Advisor: Dr. Phyllis Ross, OTD, OTR/L, CHT, CLT

Abstract:

This capstone project explores how sensory rooms help alleviate the difficulties in learning and well-being brought on by children diagnosed with autism. To improve student focus, selfregulation, and, eventually, academic success, the project uses affordable materials to create stimulating and calming environments (Darling-Hammond & Cook-Harvey, 2024). The study has been completed at Kidspeak Speech & Language Services in Charlotte, North Carolina. This project aims to reinforce the …

Exploring Leisure And Recreation Programming Within A Transitional Living Community, Alexandra Joynes

OTD Capstone Projects

Dismas House is an approved Tennessee Department of Correction (TDOC), 501(c)(3) non-profit residential re-entry program serving men who are returning to the community from state and county jails and prisons. The purpose of this capstone experience is to collaborate with Dismas House staff and residents to create sustainable resources for community dinner and programming engagement through a recreation and leisure lens. At Dismas House, the goal is to support these men as they navigate a variety of challenges that come with transition from prison back into society, whether this is through providing basic needs, focusing on health & well-being, employing …

Dopamine Release Neuroenergetics In Mouse Striatal Slices, Msema Msackyi, Yuanxin Chen, Wangchen Tsering, Ninghan Wang, Hui Zhang

Department of Neuroscience Faculty Papers

Parkinson's disease (PD) is the second most common neurodegenerative disorder. Dopamine (DA) neurons in the substantia nigra pars compacta, which have axonal projections to the dorsal striatum (dSTR), degenerate in PD. In contrast, DA neurons in the ventral tegmental area, with axonal projections to the ventral striatum, including the nucleus accumbens (NAcc) shell, are largely spared. This study aims to uncover the relative contributions of glycolysis and oxidative phosphorylation (OxPhos) to DA release in the striatum. We measured evoked DA release in mouse striatal brain slices using fast-scan cyclic voltammetry applied every two minutes. Blocking OxPhos resulted in a greater …

Broad-Spectrum Activity Of Membranolytic Cationic Macrocyclic Peptides Against Multi-Drug Resistant Bacteria And Fungi, Sandeep Lohan, Anastasia G. Konshina, Rakesh K. Tiwari, Roman G. Efremov, Innokentiy Maslennikov, Keykavous Parang

Pharmacy Faculty Articles and Research

The emergence of multidrug-resistant (MDR) strains causes severe problems in the treatment of microbial infections owing to limited treatment options. Antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) are drawing considerable attention as promising antibiotic alternative candidates to combat MDR bacterial and fungal infections. Herein, we present a series of small amphiphilic membrane-active cyclic peptides composed, in part, of various nongenetically encoded hydrophilic and hydrophobic amino acids. Notably, lead cyclic peptides 3b and 4b showed broad-spectrum activity against drug-resistant Gram-positive (MIC = 1.5–6.2 µg/mL) and Gram-negative (MIC = 12.5–25 µg/mL) bacteria, and fungi (MIC = 3.1–12.5 µg/mL). Furthermore, lead peptides displayed substantial antibiofilm action comparable …

Assessing Social Vulnerabilities Of Salivary Gland Cancer Care, Prognosis, And Treatment In The United States, Govind S. Bindra, David J. Fei-Zhang, Atharva Desai, John Maddalozzo, Stephanie S. Smith, Urjeet A. Patel, Daniel C. Chelius, Jill N. D'Souza, Jeffrey C. Rastatter, M. Boyd Gillespie, Anthony M. Sheyn

School of Medicine Faculty Publications

Background: Salivary gland cancers (SGC)-social determinants of health (SDoH) investigations are limited by narrow scopes of SGC-types and SDoH. This Social Vulnerability Index (SVI)-study hypothesized that socioeconomic status (SES) most contributed to SDoH-associated SGC-disparities. Methods: Retrospective cohort of 24 775 SGCs assessed SES, minority-language status (ML), household composition (HH), housing-transportation (HT), and composite-SDoH measured by the SVI via regressions with surveillance and survival length, late-staging presentation, and treatment (surgery, radio-, chemotherapy) receipt. Results: Increasing social vulnerability showed decreases in surveillance/survival; increased odds of advanced-presenting-stage (OR: 1.12, 95% CI: 1.07, 1.17), chemotherapy receipt (OR: 1.13, 95% CI: 1.03, 1.23); decreased odds …

The Influence Of Cognition On Dysphagia In Adults With Severe Traumatic Brain Injury, Elizabeth Mcdonald

Student Academic Conference

Dysphagia leads to an increased risk of morbidity and mortality (Alhashemi, 2010), and individuals with severe traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) are at an extremely heightened risk of developing dysphagia. This paper identified the known links between cognition and dysphagia, specifically focusing on adults with severe TBIs. The Rancho Los Amigos Revised Scale (RLAS-R) was found to be the best predictive factor in the presence, severity, and resolution of dysphagia (Terré & Mearin, 2007; Terré & Mearin, 2009; Hansen et al., 2008). This information is vital for speech-language pathologists (SLPs) to understand due to their experience and expertise in treating disorders …

Impacts Of Socioeconomic Status On Language Development In Preschool Children, Denise Adriaansen

Student Academic Conference

According to Lee (2023), 37.9 million Americans are living in poverty. Poverty is associated with deficits in language, communication, and social skills. Language development is a crucial aspect of a child's development. Children who live in low-socioeconomic households have a higher prevalence of language impairments. This paper will explore the impact that socioeconomic status has on language development in preschool-aged children. It includes becoming knowledgeable on serving individuals that come from different backgrounds, including level of socioeconomic status. It is important for all individuals especially professionals who will serve this population to understand how level of socioeconomic status can affect …

The Psychosocial Effects Of Alaryngeal Speech Following A Laryngectomy, Jennifer Cloos

Student Academic Conference

When an individual is unable to communicate using verbal speech, they can be given or introduced to a variety of alternative or augmentative options to help assist in their ability to communicate their wants and needs appropriately. In this paper the focus is on communication from those who have had a partial or total laryngectomy procedure and how the alteration of their means of communicative output affects their psychosocial health and well-being. This literature review breaks down what kind of care is expected for laryngectomees post-operation, options for communicative output following that procedure, how intensive surgeries and artificial voice options …

The Role Of High School Based Speech Language Pathologists In Transitioning Students With Autism Spectrum Disorder Into Professional Careers, Cameryn Maykut

Student Academic Conference

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is widely known to be one of the fastest growing developmental disabilities in the United States. Due to the ever-increasing prevalence of ASD, it is essential for Speech-Language Pathologists (SLPs) to be educated on how to provide the highest quality of services to this population. This research paper aims to investigate the role of the high school based SLP while working with students with ASD during the transition from high school to vocational settings. Research was collected through compiling data from a variety of peer-reviewed scholarly sources, such as journals, articles, and organizations. Findings from the …

The Speech Language Pathologist's Role In Intervention For Parkinson's Disease, Jenna Lovaas

Student Academic Conference

This literature review explored the available intervention techniques utilized by Speech Language Pathologists (SLPs) when treating individuals with Parkinson's disease (PD). Parkinson's disease affects six million people worldwide and is expected to double by the year 2040. Deficits associated with PD manifest themselves into motor and non-motor symptoms that show varying benefit from pharmacological approaches alone. For this reason, SLPs provided comprehensive treatment approaches to address the challenges related to dysarthria, dysphagia, and cognitive linguistic skills. Treatment consisted of behavioral techniques, diet modifications, compensatory strategies, muscle strength training, and restorative training. While some techniques demonstrated benefit to more than one …

The Effect Of Melodic Intonation Therapy On Language Recovery In Patients After Stroke, Alie Rockey

Student Academic Conference

This project is an examination of literature discussing the effects of Melodic Intonation Therapy (MIT) on language recovery in patients after stroke. The role of MIT after stroke is to encourage language recovery and promote overall well-being. Nine studies are summarized pertaining to the importance of MIT for individuals after stroke and the generalization of this approach. The existing literature supported MIT as a consistent intervention approach that positively impacted stroke and language recovery. Additionally, this review explored implementation options and the importance of each method. The importance for future research and synthesis is impactful across settings. Overall implications predict …

Best Practice Interventions For Individuals With Cleft Palate, Aleisha Johnson

Student Academic Conference

Cleft palate and cleft lip with palate occur in every 1,700 and 1,600 births (ASHA, n.d.). Speech-language pathology intervention is often needed by individuals who have had a cleft palate; about 50% of individuals who have had a repaired cleft palate are referred to speech pathology services (Sand et al., 2022). According to Alighieri et al. (2021), there is a lack of clear procedures when administering treatment to individuals with repaired cleft palates. The purpose of this project is to identify best practice for speech therapy interventions for individuals with repaired cleft palates. This project reviews the traditional articulation approach, …

Understanding Practitioner’S Perceptions Of Speech And Language Therapy Services In The Juvenile Justice System, Julia Buendgen

Student Academic Conference

The purpose of this study was to gain more understanding of how individuals who work with the juvenile justice population understand language disorders and the scope of speech and language therapy services. In addition, this study explored potential supports for individuals working in this setting. This study consisted of twenty participants working in the juvenile justice system who completed a survey tool that was designed by the researcher to describe the participant's perceptions of speech-language pathology, current procedures, reported challenges, and potential areas in need of support. Participant knowledge of the scope of speech-language pathology varied among participants. The highest …

Focus Groups: Perceived Stress And Stress Management Techniques Of Speech-Language Pathology Graduate Students, Emily Karevold

Student Academic Conference

Speech-Language Pathologists are required to earn a master's degree from an accredited program (ASHA, n.d.). Graduate students, typically in their twenties and thirties, are prone to stress that arise while completing their graduate degree such as paying off undergraduate student debt, earning a sustainable income while in school, and working on establishing a professional identity within their career field (Cho & Hayter, 2020). This stress is magnified by the stress associated with earning a graduate education, which negatively impacts their productivity and diminishes their mental and physical well-being (Cho & Hayter, 2020).Stress can be defined as any change that causes …

Psychosocial Effects Of Stuttering In Adults: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy And The Role Of The Slp, Gabrielle Furman

Student Academic Conference

Adults who stutter may be struggling with the psychological or emotional impacts relating to their stutter. This project examines the psychosocial effects of stuttering on adults and addresses the use of cognitive-behavioral therapy to reduce the negative feelings and attitudes towards their stutter. The aspects of cognitive-behavioral therapy and the techniques involved were explored. This therapy approach was found to be beneficial for adults who stutter in reducing anxiety and social avoidance, increasing participation in daily activities, and increasing confidence in speaking situations. The role of the speech-language pathologist was found to include choosing an approach that best fits the …

Healthcare Leaders' Attitudes And Perceptions On Use Of Artificial Intelligence (Ai) And Ai Enabled Tools In Healthcare Settings, Avery Steffen

Student Academic Conference

Problem or Gap: Numerous studies have shown that AI can be used for diagnosis, problem-solving, identification of key disease features, and treatment planning processes for complex clinical cases1. It is important to note that leaders and managers play a key role in implementing AI methods throughout their organizations, however, there is a dearth of studies that examines attitudes and perceptions of clinical and administrative leaders towards integration of AI in healthcare settings. Furthermore, there is a need for literature that helps in identification of both facilitators that lead to AI adoption and barriers that can hinder AI adoption in healthcare …

Sudden Acquired Retinal Degeneration Syndrome In Canine Patients, Morgan Powell

Honors College Theses

Sudden Acquired Retinal Degeneration Syndrome (SARDS) is a perplexing and debilitating ocular condition that affects canine patients primarily in the form of the sudden onset of total vision loss. Veterinary literature will be reviewed to discuss the basic anatomy of the canine eye and retina, as well as to investigate various diagnostic techniques to evaluate ophthalmic function and hypotheses of the pathogenesis of SARDS. The complexity of this disease and the absence of research leads to veterinarians and clients grappling with unanswered questions. This research surveys veterinarians to gain a perspective of the rareness of the disease, the most frequent …

Food Insecurity Screening Of Families In A Level Iii Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, Katelyn P. Vawter Rn, Bsn, Rnc-Nic, Megan Ortiz Rn, Bsn, Bobby Bellflower Dnsc, Nnp-Bc, Faanp

Doctor of Nursing Practice Projects

Full Study Title: Food Insecurity Screening of Families in a Level III Neonatal Intensive Care Unit

Background: Early infancy food insecurity (FI) is linked to poor health later in life, and Neonatal Intensive Care Units (NICUs) are often overlooked. Routine FI screening can help identify and assist the families suffering from FI seen in the NICU before being discharged home.

Purpose: The aim was to identify if families were assessed for FI by social workers or if they were more likely to report FI in a brief survey.

Method: A randomized chart review of social work notes for 30 NICU …