Analytical, Diagnostic and Therapeutic Techniques and Equipment Commons^™

Comparative Evaluation Of Iris And Traditional Feeding Tube Placement Methods: A Review Of The Literature, Justin Le Oms-Ii, Nishant Patel Oms-Iii, Amy Glasofer Phd, Drnp, Rn, Emilio Mazza Md, Phd

Rowan-Virtua Research Day

Background

Enteral nutrition (EN) is preferred in patients with functional gastrointestinal tracts. Traditional feeding tube placement methods are time-consuming, radiation-dependent, and prone to misplacement. IRIS and electromagnetic (EM)-guided systems enable real-time bedside placement, though comparative data remain limited.

Methods

A qualitative literature review was conducted using PubMed (2004–2024) to identify studies evaluating IRIS technology compared with EM-guided and traditional placement methods. Outcomes of interest included procedural success, safety, complication rates, efficiency, and cost considerations across ICU and ward populations.

Results

IRIS demonstrated success rates ranging from 75–91.7%, with higher success observed in ICU and sedated patients. EM-guided placement showed consistent …

Refractory Catatonia In Schizoaffective Disorder (Bipolar Type) Successfully Treated With Electroconvulsive Therapy, Shreya Kadi, Victoria Coles

Rowan-Virtua Research Day

Background: Catatonia is a neuropsychiatric syndrome

associated with mood and psychotic disorders and may

become life-threatening if untreated. While benzodiazepines

are first-line therapy, some cases are refractory and require

electroconvulsive therapy (ECT).

Hypothesis: Early use of ECT in refractory catatonia leads to

improved clinical and functional outcomes.

Methods: We present a retrospective case analysis of a 62-

year-old female with schizoaffective disorder, bipolar type,

who developed severe catatonia during inpatient psychiatric

hospitalization. Clinical course, Bush–Francis Catatonia Rating

Scale scores, and response to treatment were reviewed.

Results: The patient presented with severe catatonia (Bush–

Francis score 19) and elevated creatine kinase …

Point-Of-Care Intestinal Ultrasound Is Associated With Reduced Colonoscopy Utilization And Improved Clinical Decision-Making In Ibd, Lakumi Dias, Ashlyn Mcclelland, Amy Glasofer, Charalampos Papachristou, Yecheskel Schneider, Sanket Patel

Rowan-Virtua Research Day

Background:

Point-of-care intestinal ultrasound (IUS) enables real-time assessment of bowel inflammation, and it is underutilized in the United States. IUS provides visualization of bowel wall thickness, vascularity, and complications without radiation or bowel preparation. Prior studies demonstrate that IUS changes management and reduces reliance on invasive testing. This study hypothesizes that IUS will impact downstream clinical decision-making in a U.S. outpatient IBD cohort by decreasing invasive procedures and supporting appropriate treatment decisions.

Methods:

A retrospective cohort study was performed. Logistic regression and chi-square tests assessed associations between IUS use, colonoscopy referral, hospital utilization, and treatment modification. A derived “surveillance-due” variable …

A Retrospective Comparison Of Dobhoff Nasogastric Feeding Tubes To Iris Feeding Tubes, Nishant Patel Oms-Iii, Justin Le Oms-Ii, Amy Glasofer Phd, Drnp, Rn, Emilio Mazza Md, Phd

Rowan-Virtua Research Day

Background

Postpyloric feeding is essential in critically ill patients. Traditional Dobhoff tube (DHT) placement, often performed blindly, is widely used due to low cost but carries risks of misplacement and reliance on radiographic confirmation. In contrast, Kangaroo™ IRIS (camera-guided) technology enables real-time visualization during placement, potentially improving accuracy and workflow, though at higher cost.

Hypothesis

IRIS-guided placement provides comparable safety and success to DHT, with similar procedural efficacy without increasing complications.

Methods

A retrospective cohort study was conducted using the electronic medical records from multiple Virtua Health hospitals (01/01/13, through 01/31/25), including 200 patients undergoing nasogastric tube placement with DHT …

Wearable And Technology‑Assisted Gait And Balance Interventions In Parkinson’S Disease: A Systematic Review And Meta‑Analysis, Jamir Pitton Rissardo Md, Nishant Patel, Jarvish Shah, Daarsh Goradia, Pranaya Gade, Ana Leticia Fornari Caprara Md

Rowan-Virtua Research Day

Background: Wearable sensors and cue‑based technologies are increasingly used to augment rehabilitation in Parkinson’s disease (PD). However, the magnitude of benefit across clinical domains remains uncertain. Objective: This meta‑analysis aimed to quantify the effects of technology‑assisted interventions in PD. Methods: Randomized controlled trials evaluating wearable‑assisted interventions were systematically identified from PubMed. Outcomes included motor severity (Movement Disorders Society Unified Parkinson Disease Rating Scale Part III), balance (Berg Balance Scale, Mini‑BESTest, POMA balance), gait speed, walking endurance, freezing of gait (FOG‑Q/NFOG‑Q), fear of falling, and quality-of-life (PDQ‑39/PDQ‑8). Meta‑analyses were performed using random‑effects models to account for between‑study heterogeneity. Statistical heterogeneity was …

Refeeding Syndrome In A Person Experiencing Homelessness: A Case Report, James Espinosa, Jose Gerald Aragon, Md Fateha, Alan Lucerna

Rowan-Virtua Research Day

Refeeding syndrome (RFS) is a potentially life-threatening metabolic disturbance that occurs following nutritional reintroduction in severely malnourished individuals. It is characterized by rapid intracellular shifts of electrolytes—most notably hypophosphatemia—driven by insulin-mediated metabolic changes. Although commonly associated with eating disorders and chronic illness, RFS may also occur in socially vulnerable populations.

We report the case of a 64-year-old male experiencing homelessness who presented to the emergency department with weakness, muscle cramps, and confusion after resuming regular meals at a local shelter following prolonged minimal intake. Laboratory evaluation revealed severe hypophosphatemia (0.7 mg/dL), hypokalemia (3.0 mmol/L), and hypomagnesemia (1.2 mg/dL). Electrocardiogram demonstrated …

The Case For Intraprocedural Ultrasound Guidance In Lumbar Puncture--From Landmarking To Navigation In Lumbar Puncture. A Conceptual Review And Research Agenda, James Espinosa, Frank Wheeler, Robin Lahr, Sergey Medlenov, Alan Lucerna, Henry Schuitema

Rowan-Virtua Research Day

Ultrasound guidance for lumbar puncture (LP) is well established for pre-procedural landmark identification, particularly in patients with difficult anatomy. However, most current approaches discontinue ultrasound prior to needle insertion, returning the operator to a blind technique. Current emergency medicine ultrasound guided intravenous line insertion demonstrate feasibility of real-time needle visualization.  However,  the development and adoption of real-time guidance in the setting of lumbar puncture remains limited. Prior simulation work demonstrated that ergonomics, operator experience, and workflow integration significantly influence performance in ultrasound-assisted LP (Horn, Espinosa et al., 2016).  Here we make the case that LP is not a static targeting …

Pcl And Pegdma Nanoyarns Feasibility For Antimicrobial Suture Applications, Wynn Bastianelli, Dominique Hassinger, Vincent Beachley, Sean Mcmillan

Rowan-Virtua Research Day

Abstract Title: PCL and PEGDMA Nanoyarns Feasibility for Antimicrobial Suture

Nanofibers represent an innovative class of materials with diverse applications, including tissue engineering and drug delivery.¹ Among the most promising areas of research is their use in surgical sutures, particularly for complex orthopedic injuries with high re-tear rates. Polycaprolactone (PCL) nanofibers have shown promise as alternatives to standard sutures as their unique properties support superior healing compared to standard materials.² Our lab aims to further optimize these healing capabilities by adding Poly(ethylene glycol) dimethacrylate (PEGDMA), a molecule that tethers peptides to PCL nanoyarns, developing a suture with greater …

Evaluating The 4mm Endometrial Thickness Threshold: Racial Disparities In Ultrasound Sensitivity And Diagnostic Delay, Ngozi Ikpeama, Sophia Vogiatzidakis, Xuezhi Jiang, Elizabeth Hertz, Vitoria Chaves, Peter Schnatz

Rowan-Virtua Research Day

Title: Evaluating the 4mm Endometrial Thickness Threshold: Racial Disparities in Ultrasound Sensitivity and Diagnostic Delay

Background: Current ACOG guidelines utilize a 4mm endometrial thickness (ET) threshold via transvaginal ultrasound (TVUS) to exclude malignancy in postmenopausal women. However, recent evidence suggests these standardized thresholds may not be equally effective across all racial cohorts. This systematic review evaluates the diagnostic performance of the 4mm threshold specifically in Black patients.

Methods: A systematic search of peer-reviewed literature was conducted to identify studies comparing TVUS sensitivity and clinical outcomes between racial groups. Data were extracted focusing on the diagnostic sensitivity of the 4mm threshold, …

A Comprehensive Review Of Photothermal Therapy: Tumor Responses, Safety, And Clinical Translation, Taniya Sood

Rowan-Virtua Research Day

Background: Cancer affects 1 in 2 men and 1 in 3 women in the United States. Traditional treatments such as chemotherapy, radiation, and surgery often lack selectivity, resulting in significant systemic side effects. Photothermal therapy (PTT) is an emerging modality that utilizes light-activated nanoparticles to generate localized heat, selectively destroying cancer cells while minimizing damage to surrounding healthy tissue.

Methods: A comprehensive literature review was conducted utilizing PubMed, Embase, and Web of Science (2009–2024). Inclusion criteria included randomized controlled, cohort, and controlled trials involving adults (18+) with a confirmed cancer diagnosis. Studies were required to evaluate PTT using gold nanomaterials …

Nurse-Driven Infusion Protocols In Diabetic Ketoacidosis: A Scoping Review, Nicholas Morrell Pierce Msn, Rn, Cen, Ccrn, Mary Cassandra Scott Bsn, Rn, Ccrn, Cen, Alvertis Demetreis Warren Bsn, Rn, Ccrn, Tracy Mcclinton Dnp, Aprn, Agacnp-Bc, Hget-C, Ebp-C

Doctor of Nursing Practice Projects

Purpose/Background

Diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) is a high-risk acute emergency requiring timely insulin titration, intensive monitoring, and coordinated interdisciplinary care. Traditionally, management relies on provider-driven insulin infusion adjustments, which may introduce delays and workflow inefficiencies. Emerging nurse-driven insulin infusion protocols aim to standardize care, improve safety, and enhance clinical efficiency. The purpose of this scoping review was to evaluate existing evidence comparing nurse-driven versus provider-driven insulin infusion protocols in the management of adult patients with DKA.

Methods

A scoping review was conducted in accordance with Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. From August 2023 through November 2025, …

Evaluating The Impact Of Glp-1 Receptor Agonists On Perioperative Aspiration Risk: The Role Of Preoperative Fasting Duration, Caitlin Maureen Carter Bsn, Rn, Adam Wade Johnson Bsn, Rn, Allison Whitney Jones Bsn, Rn, Joseph Kaesberg Bsn, Rn, Kelly Maura Watson Bsn, Rn, Bobby Bellflower Dnsc, Nnp-Bc, Faan, Faanp, Fnap

Doctor of Nursing Practice Projects

Purpose/Background

Glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1 RAs) are increasingly prescribed for diabetes and obesity due to their metabolic benefits; however, these medications delay gastric emptying, raising concern for increased residual content (RGC) and aspiration risk during anesthesia. Current perioperative fasting and medication management guidelines for patients taking GLP-1 RAs remain inconsistent, creating uncertainty for anesthesia providers. This scoping review aimed to synthesize current evidence on the relationship between GLP-1 RA use and perioperative gastric safety, with particular focus on fasting duration and aspiration risk.

Methods

A scoping review was conducted in accordance with PRISMA-ScR guidelines. Searches were performed using the …

Isolated Giant Aneurysm Of The Acute Marginal Branch Of Right Coronaryartery Presenting As Nstemi: Successful Direct Surgical Repair Preserving The Native Flow, Sai Kumari Ms., Anbarasu Mohanraj Dr, Saranya Damodaran Ms

Journal Of Indian Physician Associates

Abstract

Background: A “giant” coronary artery aneurysm is variably defined in the literature—commonly as a dilatation of a coronary vessel exceeding four times the diameter of the adjacent normal segment, or exceeding a fixed threshold such as > 8 mm or > 20 mm in diameter^1.

Case presentation: We report the case of a 61-year-old woman with type II diabetes mellitus and systemic hypertension, who presented with breathlessness and chest pain radiating to the back. She had recently suffered a non-ST elevation myocardial infarction (NSTEMI) and was found on coronary angiography to have a large aneurysm of the acute marginal branch …

Personalized Treatment Of Chronic Tendinopathy Using Ultrasound And Neuroimmune Markers: A Narrative Review, Rohan Phadke, Samer Salman, Kirtan Patel, Jad Wardeh, Akhil Marupudi, Rahul Kumar, Arbaz A. Momin, Alireza Tavakkoli

Department of Neurosurgery Faculty Papers

Introduction: : Chronic tendinopathy affects approximately 30% of musculoskeletal consultations, yet treatment outcomes remain inconsistent despite numerous available interventions. This variability stems from the absence of validated frameworks to match individual patients to optimal treatments based on underlying pathophysiology. To synthesize current evidence on ultrasound imaging biomarkers, neuroimmune mechanisms, and interventional therapies in chronic tendinopathy, and propose a clinically applicable framework integrating ultrasound phenotyping with neuroimmune assessment to guide personalized treatment selection. Methods: A systematic literature search was conducted across PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science through December 2025. Studies examining ultrasound/elastography imaging, neuroimmune mechanisms, or treatment interventions in chronic …

Remimazolam As A Sedative For Endoscopic Procedures: A Scoping Review, Hamzha Aysheh, Megan Henderson, Megan Hinkle, Sara Holton, Spencer Turner, Dwayne Accardo Dnp, Ccrn, Faana

Doctor of Nursing Practice Projects

Purpose/Background

Propofol is commonly used for procedural sedation during endoscopic procedures because of its rapid onset and short duration; however, its use is frequently associated with adverse effects such as hypotension, hypoxemia, respiratory depression, bradycardia, and injection site pain. As diagnostic endoscopic procedures continue to increase, particularly among older and medically complex patients, there is a growing need for sedative agents that provide effective sedation while minimizing perioperative risk. Remimazolam, a novel ultra–short-acting benzodiazepine metabolized by tissue esterases, has demonstrated favorable hemodynamic stability and a reduced adverse effect profile in recent literature. The purpose of this evidence-based quality improvement project …

Discharge Education Bundles And Evaluating The Effect On Readmission And Satisfaction Rates: A Scoping Review, Jane Campo Bsn, Rn, Charlotte Edwards Bsn, Rn, Mary Catherine Hall Bsn, Rn, Sarah Moore Bsn, Rn, Allison Walker Bsn, Rn, Tracy Mcclinton Dnp, Aprn, Agacnp-Bc, Hget-C, Ebp-C

Doctor of Nursing Practice Projects

Purpose/Background

Transitioning children with a chronic medical condition from hospital to home is a critical and difficult process, leaving many families feeling anxious and unprepared. Nationally, 1 in 7 pediatric patients are readmitted within thirty days, making readmission rates an important quality indicator with both clinical and financial implications. To address these challenges, multiple discharge bundles have been developed; however, their effectiveness has not been consistently evaluated. The aim of this project is to summarize the current literature and highlight its positive outcomes, with the intention of promoting further research, reducing 30-day readmission rates, and increasing parental satisfaction (Shermont et …

Impact Of Nitrous Oxide Analgesia On Labor Experience, Kierra Jones Rn, Bsn, Elyzabeth Morales Rn, Bsn, Lanitra Ray Rn, Bsn, Rhonda Johnson Dnp, Cne, Cnm, Facnm

Doctor of Nursing Practice Projects

Purpose/Background

Nitrous oxide (N₂O) has re-emerged in the United States as a labor analgesia option that supports mobility, autonomy, and patient-centered care. As nurses increasingly support low-intervention and physiologic birth approaches, understanding the effectiveness and safety of nitrous oxide for low-risk laboring individuals is essential. This scoping review examines current evidence on nitrous oxide use during labor, focusing on maternal pain management, satisfaction, and neonatal outcomes to inform evidence-based nursing and midwifery practice.

Methods

A scoping review was conducted using PubMed, CINAHL Complete, and the Cochrane Library between September and October 2023. Inclusion criteria consisted of English-language studies published within …

Ai×Life 2026: Advances In Computational Biology Across Scales For Life & Health Sciences, Suma Mohan S., Devika N. T., Pranavathiyani G.

Conference Proceedings

Book of Abstracts of the International Conference, AIxLife 2026: Advances in Computational Biology Across Scales for Life & Health Sciences, held on 17–18 April 2026, SASTRA Deemed to be University, Thanjavur, Tamil Nadu, INDIA 

About the Conference

Conventional computational biology laid the foundation for biological data analysis through statistical models, algorithms, and curated databases, enabling insights into genes, proteins, and pathways. Today, the integration of artificial intelligence, spanning machine learning, deep learning, and large language models (LLMs) is driving a transformative shift across biological scales, from atomic and molecular interactions to pathways, cellular systems, organisms, and populations.

AI-powered approaches …

Targeting The Dorsolateral Prefrontal Cortex With Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation To Improve Depression And Anxiety In Parkinson's Disease, Brock Renicks

Honors Theses

The aim of this study is to observe the outcomes of transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) as a treatment for Parkinson’s Disease (PD). This study will primarily look at changes in depression and anxiety, as these symptoms are often comorbid with Parkinson’s Disease. Transcranial direct current stimulation is a non-invasive, very low-intensity form of electrical stimulation of the brain. It is being increasingly used as a form of treatment for Parkinson’s Disease and depression and anxiety, however the literature is ambiguous, showing mixed results throughout various studies, with no standardization of tDCS administration. To determine the effect of tDCS on …

Evaluation Of The Effectiveness Of Antihypertensive Therapy Chosen Through Maternal Hemodynamic Profile Analysis, Margaret Weimer

Poster Presentations

In treatment of emergent hypertension, the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) recommends both oral labetalol and nifedipine, with no preference shown between the two. These medications have different mechanisms of action. Studies have suggested that consideration of hemodynamic profile may be an effective way to determine medication, but have not considered the Rule of 55, a simple calculation to predict hemodynamic profile.

Goals: 1. Determine if tailoring the antihypertensive to patient’s hemodynamic profile is associated with better control of blood pressure. 2. Determine if the Rule of 55 is an accurate method to determine hemodynamic profile.

Adhesion Of Antibiotic-Resistant Bacteria To Thermoplastic Materials Used In Fabricating Medical Devices: Patient Consequences, Dev V. Mehta

Poster Presentations

Burn injury patients wear supportive orthoses made by heat-forming sheets of thermoplastic material (Figs. 1 & 2). Bacteria cause severe soft tissue infections in patients wearing contaminated orthoses. Thermoplastic medical devices can develop biofilms that include antibiotic-resistant (AR) bacteria, which significantly reduces the number of available treatment options. A biofilm is a community of microorganisms that share resources allowing them to exist in a nutrient-limited environment. Biofilm microbes secrete extracellular polymeric substance (EPS) that attaches them firmly to a substrate surface while protecting them from harmful substances, including antibiotics. Bacteria living within biofilms on inanimate surfaces can survive for extended …

Comparative Investigation Of Bacterial Adhesion On Medical Device Thermoplastics, Dev V. Mehta

Honors Theses

This project will focus on determining if differences in bacterial cell wall composition influences adhesiveness to thermoplastic materials used to construct patient orthotic splints. Bacteria with decreased adhesion are unable to remain bonded to orthotic splints, increasing its ability to transfer to a patient’s wound, leading to an infection. Antibiotic resistant bacteria used in this investigation included gram-positive cocci vancomycin-resistant (VRE) Enterococcus faecalis, methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), and gram-negative rods extended-spectrum beta-lactamase (ESBL) Escherichia coli and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Each test bacterium is a major pathogen causing healthcare-associated infections (HAIs). Saline, artificial perspiration, and ascites fluids were used to determine the …

Determinants Of Hypertension Awareness And Control In Kenya: A Secondary Analysis Of National Survey Data, Alexander K. Davis

Honors Theses

In low- and middle-income countries (LMICs), cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) are prevalent and pose a major concern as the current healthcare systems are oriented primarily towards communicable diseases. The largest contributor to CVDs, hypertension, is a significant issue in Kenya, a model LMIC. Based on previous studies in this lab, high rates of hypertension are present in the region of Kasigau, Kenya. Kasigau is a small region within Taita-Taveta County, Kenya. Traditional risk factors are not necessarily predictive of hypertension in all regions of Kenya. This study aims to address the lack of tested risk factors for hypertension in Kenya and …

The Effects Of Sugammadex Vs. Neostigmine On Intraoperative Heart Rate In Pediatric Patients Under Two Years: A Scoping Review, Saumel Abston, Jackson Cobb, Elle Dean, Tanner Dillard, Pauline Dinh, Dwayne Accardo Dnp, Crna, Faana, Margaret Harvey Phd, Aprn, Acnp-Bc, Chfn, Fhrs

Doctor of Nursing Practice Projects

Purpose/Background

Neuromuscular blockade (NMB) reversal is a critical component of anesthesia care, particularly in infants under two years of age who have immature autonomic regulation and heightened vagal tone, predisposing them to bradycardia. Neostigmine, the traditional reversal agent, is associated with parasympathomimetic effects such as bradycardia, requiring anticholinergic co- administration. Sugammadex, a selective relaxant binding agent, offers rapid and predictable reversal of aminosteroidal neuromuscular blocking agents with less cholinergic side effects. Although the safety profile of sugammadex is well established in older pediatric populations, limited evidence exists regarding its cardiovascular effects in infants under two years of age.

Methods

A …

Improving Access And Early Identification Of Anxiety Disorders Through Annual Gad-7 Screening In High Schools: A Scoping Review, Joshua Richard Yumul Bsn, Rn, Cindy Thao Msn, Rn, Justin Doyle Borden Bsn, Rn, Rebecca Lizette Johnston Bsn, Rn, Bobby Bellflower Dnsc, Nnp-Bc, Faan, Faanp, Fnap

Doctor of Nursing Practice Projects

Background: Anxiety disorders affect nearly one-third of adolescents in the United States, yet many cases remain undiagnosed due to inconsistent screening and limited access to school-based mental health services. The Generalized Anxiety Disorder 7-item (GAD-7) questionnaire is a validated screening tool, but its routine use in high school settings is not well established.

Purpose: This scoping review aimed to synthesize current evidence on the use of the GAD-7 in high schools to support early identification of anxiety disorders and improve access to mental health care.

Methods: A comprehensive literature search was conducted using PsycINFO, ERIC, PubMed, CINAHL, and Google Scholar. …

Expanding Access To Noninvasive Spinal Neuromodulation For Pediatric Spinal Cord Injury Rehabilitation: A Comparative Device Study, Alice E C Palmer

College of Arts & Sciences Senior Theses

Paralysis following spinal cord injury (SCI) has traditionally been considered permanent due to the disruption of supraspinal input to spinal motor circuits. However, growing evidence suggests that spinal networks below the level of injury retain intrinsic motor-generating capabilities through central pattern generators. Transcutaneous spinal cord stimulation (scTS) is a noninvasive neuromodulation technique that delivers electrical stimulation through the skin to reactivate these spinal networks. Although prior studies demonstrate that scTS delivered through research-grade devices is safe and effective in adults and children with chronic SCI, clinical translation remains limited by lack of FDA-approved systems, high costs, and restricted access to …

Evaluation Of The Effectiveness Of Antihypertensive Therapy Chosen Through Maternal Hemodynamic Profile Analysis, Margaret Weimer

Honors Theses

Medication choice is tightly regulated in most situations, but in the field of obstetric medicine, the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) recommends both labetalol and nifedipine as oral treatments for emergent hypertension, with no preference shown between the two. Studies have suggested that consideration of hemodynamic profile may be an effective way to determine medication, but have not considered the Rule of 55, a simple calculation to predict hemodynamic profile. The goals of this study were to determine whether tailoring the oral hypertensive medication to a patient’s hemodynamic profile is associated with better blood pressure control within 72 …

Spectral Characterization Of Colorectal Cancer Using Excitation-Scanning Hyperspectral Imaging, Natalie Hadad

Honors Theses

Colorectal cancer is one of the most common and deadly cancers worldwide, with a lifetime risk of approximately one in twenty-three for men and one in twenty-five for women. Although early detection significantly improves survival, current diagnostic approaches such as tissue biopsy are invasive, reliant on subjective interpretation, have extended turnaround times, and risk missing flat or depressed lesions that are more difficult to detect than raised polyps. These limitations highlight the need for objective, minimally invasive technologies capable of detecting early tissue changes. This study investigates excitation-scanning hyperspectral imaging (Ex-HSI) as a label-free optical approach for identifying colorectal cancer–associated …

Novel Biomarker Discovery In Multiple Sclerosis, Manisha Gangasani

Honors Theses

Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is a chronic neuroinflammatory disorder affecting the brain, spinal cord, and optic nerve. Patients experience cognitive, motor, autonomic, and emotional symptoms that often overlap with other neurological conditions, making early diagnosis challenging. Current diagnostic criteria require evidence of lesions with dissemination in time and space. Racial disparities in MS outcomes are well documented, with Black individuals often exhibiting greater disease severity, higher relapse rates, and increased disability compared to White individuals. These differences likely reflect a combination of genetic, biological, environmental, and healthcare access factors, underscoring the need to improve early diagnosis and reduce inequities in care. …

Characterization Of Circulating Extracellular Proteome In Plasma Samples Of Triple-Negative Breast Cancer Patients, Brionna Wilson

Honors Theses

Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are membrane-bound vesicles secreted by cells in the body that play an important role in intercellular signaling, immune modulation, and transfer of biomolecules between cells. EV s reflect the physiological state of their cells of origin, so they are being explored as potential noninvasive biomarkers for cancer detection and monitoring. Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC), an aggressive subtype lacking targeted therapies, is difficult to detect early and currently has no reliable prognostic biomarkers. This study aimed to quantify EV concentrations in the blood serum of TNBC patients (n=40) compared with cancer-free healthy controls (n=35) as well as determine …