Therapeutics Commons^™

Evaluation Of Neuroplastic Changes In Psychological Intervention And Contemporary Treatments Of Depression, Taylor Severance

Dissertations

Major depressive disorder is one of the most prevalent mental health disorders worldwide. There is a vast range of treatment options for depression, with varying levels of effectiveness. Recent treatments for depression have expanded, increasing alternative treatments, and it is unknown which treatments have the largest impact on depression. This research was designed to examine the treatments of depression, with a focus on psychotherapy and contemporary treatments such as ketamine, psilocybin, and transcranial magnetic stimulation. A literature review was conducted to assess treatment outcomes and neuroplastic changes in these interventions, as well as combinations of the interventions. Data were evaluated …

Unlocking Hope: Mirtazapine's Promise In Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder Treatment, Rebecca K. Hicks, Iram Kingson, Jordan Gaal, Suzanne Holroyd

Marshall Journal of Medicine

Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is a chronic and debilitating psychiatric condition characterized by intrusive thoughts (obsessions) and repetitive behaviors (compulsions). While selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) are first-line treatments for OCD, a significant proportion of patients remain refractory to these interventions. Mirtazapine, an atypical antidepressant with unique pharmacological properties, has emerged as a potential adjunctive therapy for treatment-resistant OCD. This review synthesizes existing evidence regarding the efficacy and safety profile of mirtazapine in OCD management. We analyze clinical trials, observational studies, and case reports, distinguishing high- vs. low-quality evidence, and discuss mechanisms underlying mirtazapine's therapeutic effects. Additionally, …

Finding Harmony: Music Therapy As An Adjunct In Acute Psychosis, Brandon Szwydky, Rebecca Low, Nelay Govan, Marcus Decarvalho

South Atlantic Division GME Research Days 2026

No abstract provided.

Alcohol Use Disorder, Kendall Walker, James Mcnary, Hamilton Farris

School of Medicine Faculty Publications

No abstract provided.

Sexual Activity And Functioning After Breast Cancer Treatment: Perspectives On The Importance Of Pleasure From A Radiotherapy Cohort, Melanie Besculides, Lauren Carney, Ksenia Gorbenko, Sheryl Green, Melissa Brito, Jezelle Lynch, Carly Feldman, Cindy Munoz, Madhu Mazumdar, Deborah C. Marshall

Student Papers, Posters & Projects

BACKGROUND: Breast cancer affects millions of women and while treatment can be lifesaving, it also has numerous side effects, including those related to sexual function, which often impact the ability to experience pleasure from sex. This study aimed to understand how breast cancer survivors define sexual activity, identify important aspects, and ascertain perceived impacts of treatment on sexual activity and function, particularly related to pleasure.

METHODS: Semi-structured interviews were conducted with women who were breast cancer survivors at least one-year post-radiation. Priority populations were oversampled (racial/ethnic/sexual/gender minorities, those aged over 65 or under 45). The sample included 23 participants: 11 …

Probiotic Intervention In Managing Chronic Stress, Bianca Opdenbosch

PANDION: The Osprey Journal of Research and Ideas

Chronic stress can induce gut dysbiosis which contributes to the dysregulation of the gut-brain axis and leads to anxiety and depressive-like symptoms. The gut-brain axis relies on nervous, immune, and endocrine interactions. Gut dysbiosis, an imbalance within the gut microbiome, disrupts gut-brain communication, impairing gut barrier integrity, inflammation regulation, and hormonal and neurotransmitter production. These gut changes contribute to mood disorders resulting from stress, and thus it is important to implement dietary interventions, like probiotics, to help mitigate these effects. Research highlights the potential of probiotics to act as an intervention to combat stress-induced gut dysbiosis and replenish beneficial bacteria …

Adherence To Integrative Care, Oncology Healthcare Utilization, Opioid Use And Hospitalization, Eran Ben-Arye, Dan Greenberg, Noah Samuels, Ana Maria Lopez, Tzahit Simon-Tuval

Kimmel Cancer Center Faculty Papers

Research on the relationship between integrative oncology (IO) programs and dispensing of chemotherapy agents and supportive care drugs, and hospitalization rates is limited. The present study examined these outcomes in chemotherapy-treated patients with cancer, comparing patients highly adherent to integrative care (high-AIC) to those with low adherence (low-AIC). Data from patients with cancer treated with taxane and/or platinum-based agents participating in an ongoing prospective, controlled pragmatic trial were examined retrospectively. Patients were referred to an IO consultation and weekly treatments at 3 medical centers in Northern Israel, with high-AIC defined as attending ≥4 sessions at 6 weeks; low-AIC, 0-3 sessions. …

The Science Of Sound: Studying The Cognitive, Emotional, And Physiological Effects Of Frequency, Genre, And Music, Jett Yarborough

Senior Honors Theses

Music influences emotion, physiology, and cognition, yet little is known about how the frequency it is tuned to affects these influences. Prior research has shown that music tuned to 432 Hz can reduce stress, lower blood pressure, and improve sleep. My colleagues and I conducted two studies to investigate this. Our research found that music tuned to 432 Hz promotes a significant increase in memory retention and induces a state of focus and relaxation. These results suggest that shifting from the standard tuning frequency of 440 Hz to 432 Hz could have a profoundly positive impact on our daily lives. …

Metagenomic Characterization Of Gut Microbiota In Children With Autism Spectrum Disorder: Microbial Signatures And Modulation By Anti-Inflammatory Diet And Probiotics, Marysol Valencia-Buitrago, Rodrigo Dias Oliveira-Carvalho, Valbert Cardoso, Jessica Triviño-Valencia, Luisa Matilde Salamanca-Duque, Vanessa Martínez-Díaz, Jovanny Zabaleta, Narmer Fernando Galeano-Vanegas, Carlos Andrés Naranjo-Galvis

School of Medicine Faculty Publications

Background: Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is increasingly associated with alterations in gut microbiota, intestinal permeability, and immune dysregulation. However, integrative studies exploring these mechanisms in Latin American populations are lacking. Objective: To characterize gut microbiota profiles in Colombian children with ASD and evaluate the effects of two microbiota-targeted interventions, an anti-inflammatory diet and a probiotic formulation, on microbial diversity and taxonomic composition. Methods: In a two-phase study, shotgun metagenomic sequencing was performed on fecal samples from 23 children with ASD and 7 typically developing (TD) controls. In the second phase, 17 children with ASD were randomized to receive a 12-week …

Anti-Inflammatory Diet And Probiotic Supplementation As Strategies To Modulate Immune Dysregulation In Autism Spectrum Disorder, Carlos Andrés Naranjo-Galvis, Diana María Trejos-Gallego, Cristina Correa-Salazar, Jessica Triviño-Valencia, Marysol Valencia-Buitrago, Andrés Felipe Ruiz-Pulecio, Luisa Fernanda Méndez-Ramírez, Jovanny Zabaleta, Miguel Andres Meñaca-Puentes, Carlos Alberto Ruiz-Villa, Marcela Orjuela-Rodriguez, Juan Carlos Carmona-Hernández, Luisa Matilde Salamanca-Duque

School of Medicine Faculty Publications

Background/Objectives: Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental condition associated with behavioral and cognitive impairments. Increasing evidence also links ASD with systemic immune dysregulation, including abnormal cytokine profiles and chronic low-grade inflammation. Emerging evidence suggests that targeted dietary strategies and probiotic supplementation may modulate immune responses and gut–brain interactions in patients with ASD. This study aimed to evaluate the immunomodulatory effects of a structured anti-inflammatory diet (NeuroGutPlus) compared to multi-strain probiotics in children with ASD. NeuroGutPlus is a nutritionally complete anti-inflammatory dietary protocol that targets gut integrity, inflammation, and mitochondrial function. It includes a diet low in gluten, FODMAPs, casein, …

Cognitive Impairment In Adult Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder: Clinical Implications And Novel Treatment Strategies, Alexis J. Vega, Gabriel V. Hernandez, Ahmed I. Anwar, Bahareh Sharafi, Rahib K. Islam, Sahar Shekoohi, Alan D. Kaye

School of Medicine Faculty Publications

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a lifelong condition; however, traditional treatment focuses on hyperactivity and inattention, which is largely a manifestation of pediatric ADHD. Studies are limited regarding cognitive difficulties, as seen in adult ADHD, as well as treatment strategies for this population. This review of the literature examines multiple recent studies that discuss various novel treatment strategies for cognitive impairment in adults with ADHD. A targeted literature review was conducted using PubMed to identify recent studies on cognitive dysfunction in adults with ADHD, with an emphasis on emerging treatment strategies. Data collected included sample size, intervention strategies, cognitive …

Integrating Positive Psychology And Spirituality To Foster Meaning And Well-Being In Older Adults, Crystal Morris

Adultspan Journal

This perspective article explores the integration of positive psychology interventions (PPIs) and spirituality in therapy to foster meaning and well-being in older adults. It highlights exercises such as the positive introduction, positive legacy, character strengths, mindfulness, mindful-based yoga, and a manifestation prayer journaling. The interventions presented are tools to support older adults that may experience depression, difficult life transitions, and the search for renewed meaning. Therapists who integrate PPIs and spirituality into therapy can promote a holistic, non-pathological approach to treatment.

A Clinical Review Of Suicide Risks In Dermatology, Rahib K. Islam, Victoria T. Tong, Shari R. Lipner

School of Medicine Faculty Publications

Patients with visible skin diseases, including acne, psoriasis, and atopic dermatitis, face heightened risks of psychological distress, depression, and suicidal ideation, often exacerbated by social stigma and reduced quality of life. This review explores the intersection between dermatology and suicide, highlighting the psychosocial impact of visible skin conditions and the controversies surrounding treatment-related risks, including isotretinoin and biologic exposure. Current evidence suggests that while isotretinoin has been historically linked to mood changes, robust studies do not support a direct association with suicide. Incorporating mental health screenings into dermatological practice is essential for early identification and management of at-risk patients. By …

Cobenfy(Xanomeline/Trospium) Vs. Clozapine For Treatment-Resistant Schizophrenia, Harmann Singh, Akash M. Patel, Abdullah Noory, Kush C. Patel, Simran Gandhi

Rowan-Virtua Research Day

Background: Treatment-resistant schizophrenia (TRS) poses significant therapeutic challenges. Although clozapine remains the gold-standard pharmacologic treatment for TRS, its clinical utility is hampered by severe side effects and intensive monitoring requirements. KarXT (Cobenfy), a combination of xanomeline and trospium chloride, represents a novel antipsychotic approach by targeting muscarinic M1/M4 receptors instead of dopamine D2 pathways.

Hypothesis: KarXT offers comparable efficacy to clozapine with a more favorable safety and tolerability profile, making it a viable alternative for patients with TRS.

Methods: A systematic review was conducted to identify studies from 2015–2025 evaluating KarXT in schizophrenia. Sources included PubMed, ClinicalTrials.gov, FDA databases, ICER …

Is Acupuncture At The Auricular Shenmen Point Effective In Treating Anxiety?, Nicole Vaiani, Alexander King, Venkateswar Venkataraman

Rowan-Virtua Research Day

Anxiety disorders are the most prevalent mental health condition in the United States and are often managed with pharmacological interventions, which can lead to adverse side effects. As a result, alternative therapies such as acupuncture are gaining attention. This study investigates the effectiveness of auricular acupuncture, specifically targeting the Shenmen point, in reducing symptoms of anxiety. We analyzed ten randomized controlled trials that included quantitative outcome measures. The results suggest that auricular acupuncture at the Shenmen point is an effective and well-tolerated adjunctive treatment for anxiety. While further research with larger sample sizes and extended follow-up periods is warranted, these …

The Role Of Ect In Ocd: A 10-Year Review (2014-2024), Mariana Sales, Tainiz Polanco, Amy Nguyen

Rowan-Virtua Research Day

Background: Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) affects up to 2.5% of the population with significant impacts on everyday functioning and relationships. First-line treatment includes selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRI) and cognitive behavioral therapy; however, studies have found that up to 40-60% of patients do not respond to SSRIs. ECT is an alternative approach that has demonstrated limited efficacy in OCD.

Objective: The current review aims to summarize the results of published work between 2014-2024 to assess the efficacy of ECT in the treatment of OCD.

Methods: A literature review was conducted using eight studies from 2014-2024 to assess the effectiveness of ECT …

Autoimmune Encephalitis Presenting As Pseudodementia (Case Report), Renita Ng, Christie Richardson

Rowan-Virtua Research Day

Patients with autoimmune encephalitis frequently present with psychiatric symptoms including psychosis, behavioral changes, and affective disorders. Because of this, misdiagnosis of a primary psychiatric disorder in a case of autoimmune encephalitis is not uncommon. We present a case of autoimmune encephalitis in a 72 year old who was initially thought to have psuedodementia or catatonia due to variable collateral who later on LP was found to have markers and responded to steroid treatment. This case highlights the importance of maintaining a broad differential with patients who present with psychiatric alterations and to consider other causes of behavioral change.

Literature Review: Prazosin Used For Ptsd In Pregnancy, Afshan Khan, Natali Sharma, Rebekah M. Dietrich, Martin Forsberg

Rowan-Virtua Research Day

Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) affects 3–4% of pregnant and postpartum individuals and is associated with complications such as preterm birth, low birth weight, and postpartum depression. Pharmacologic treatment options during pregnancy are limited by concerns about fetal safety.

Methods: A literature review was conducted focusing on studies reporting maternal or neonatal outcomes following prazosin exposure in pregnancy.

Results: One observational study of 11 pregnancies found 54.5% had uneventful outcomes, with rates of preterm birth, miscarriage, and preeclampsia similar to the general population. Hypotension and limited lactation data remain concerns.

Conclusion: Early evidence suggests prazosin may be a relatively safe and …

A New Paliperidone Palmitate Formulation: How Is It Different And Where Does It Fit In Our Array Of Choices For Long-Acting Formulations Of Risperidone And Paliperidone?, Justin Faden, Leslie Citrome

Rowan-Virtua School of Osteopathic Medicine Departmental Research

Long-acting injectable (LAI) antipsychotics have been shown to enhance treatment adherence and outcomes in individuals with schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorder, and bipolar disorder. In recent years, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved several LAIs with differing amenities of care, such as mode of administration, duration of oral medication supplementation, dosing frequency, needle gauge and size, and injection volume, amongst others. Additionally, several LAIs are distinct formulations of risperidone and paliperidone, making it difficult to distinguish between formulations, and many providers are unfamiliar with these newer agents. In 2024, a once-monthly LAI formulation of paliperidone palmitate, manufactured by Luye …

Quantifying Patient Preferences For Treatments For Refractory Chronic Spontaneous Urticaria, Olufemi Babalola, Richard W. Hass, John F Mcana, Manav Segal, Juan Marcos Gonzalez, Olajumoke Fadugba

College of Population Health Faculty Papers

BACKGROUND: In recent years, it has become increasingly common to incorporate the patient perspective into drug development and regulatory decision making.

OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to measure and quantify patient preferences (priorities and trade-offs) for attributes that characterize current and emerging refractory chronic spontaneous urticaria (rCSU) treatments.

METHODS: Adult patients with self-reported rCSU symptoms completed an online discrete choice experiment survey. The survey included 10 questions that asked respondents to choose between 2 hypothetical rCSU treatment profiles having similar attributes with varying levels. The attributes included the following: chance of control of symptoms, time to symptom control, return of symptoms …

Long-Acting Injectables: A Strategy To Mitigate Nonadherence In Bipolar Disorder, Justin Faden, Elina Maymind

Rowan-Virtua School of Osteopathic Medicine Departmental Research

No abstract provided.

Nitrous Oxide Induced Psychosis: A Case Report, Brianne Kimmet, Barbara Gracious

South Atlantic Division GME Research Day 2025

No abstract provided.

Retrospective Comparison Of Emergency Department (Ed) Length Of Stay (Los) Between Marijuana And Alcohol Users, Paul Bomar, Jonathan Leggett, Lisa Persaud, Franklin Schaefer, Vanessa Knapp, Lauren Eisenberg, Austin Johnson

South Atlantic Division GME Research Day 2025

No abstract provided.

Video Games In The Management Of Adhd: A Novel Approach To Adjunct Traditional Treatment, Lekhya Kintada, France Leandre

North Florida Division GME Research Day 2025

No abstract provided.

Comparative Efficacy Of Hallucinogens In Treating Mood Disorders Through A Meta-Analysis Of Symptom Reduction, Dosage, And Duration, John Marco D.F. Muniz

Honors Undergraduate Theses

Background: Hallucinogens including psilocybin, lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD), ketamine, N,N-dimethyltryptamine (DMT) (as ayahuasca), have re-emerged as potential rapid-acting treatments for mood disorders. We conducted a meta-analysis of placebo-controlled trials evaluating their efficacy in depression and anxiety disorders. Methods: A systematic review identified 12 trials (Total ≈ 670) meeting inclusion criteria (randomized, placebo-controlled). Data on Cohen’s d and Hedges’ g effect sizes for depression- and anxiety-related outcomes were extracted. We computed pooled effect sizes (weighted by sample size and inverse variance), performed subgroup analyses by drug, diagnosis, follow-up duration, and outcome measure type, and assessed heterogeneity (I², Q …

Psychedelic Minimalism: The Case Against Music In Psychedelic Therapy Settings, Samir A. Nader

Department of Medicine Faculty Publications

[Introduction: reframing the role of setting] In recent years, renewed attention has been given to the centrality of set and setting in psychedelic-assisted therapy. The Reporting of Setting in Psychedelic Clinical Trials (ReSPCT) guidelines reflect an evolving consensus: therapeutic outcomes are not solely pharmacologically determined but are heavily shaped by both the environment and the psychological state of the participant (2). Within this evolving paradigm, music has assumed a privileged role, framed as a therapeutic constant, typically curated to be emotionally supportive or evocative, and especially emphasized during peak psychedelic states (3). The prevailing assumption is that music facilitates safety, …

Providing End-Of-Life Counseling: A Narrative Inquiry, Carol Hecht, Sibyl West

Adultspan Journal

This qualitative study aimed to address the gap in the research related to end-of-life counseling by exploring the experiences of counselors working with clients at end of life. While counseling literature and education are lacking regarding end of life, many counselors will work alongside clients approaching death. The purpose of this study was twofold: (a) to better understand the nuanced experiences of counselors providing end-of-life counseling and (b) to explore the supports and preparations helpful for counselors to provide end-of-life counseling. A narrative approach, using the Listening Guide (Gilligan, 2015), was employed to analyze and present the stories of three …

Considerations Of Medicare Telehealth Services With Older Adults, Sonah Kho, Amanda Dediego

Adultspan Journal

The onset of the COVID-19 pandemic set in motion a rapid expansion of mental health services offered via telehealth. With this rapid expansion came the need to examine how policy and practice should be shaped in a future where telehealth is considered common in counseling practice. For counselors to understand how to support older adult clients in using telehealth services, they must understand telehealth policy. Following the eligibility of licensed counselors to participate in Medicare, counselors need to stay abreast of regulatory changes regarding restrictions and regulations on use of telehealth for mental and behavioral health services, including video and …

Correspondence To "A Preliminary Study Of Collaborative Group Intervention With Recovered Peer Supporters For Eating Disorders: Analyses Including Comparisons Between In-Person And Online Sessions", Nirjal Thapa, Don D Shamilov, David F Lo

Rowan-Virtua School of Osteopathic Medicine Departmental Research

We read with pleasure the article by Mochizuki et al., ¹ titled “A preliminary study of collaborative group intervention with recovered peer supporters for eating disorders: Analyses including comparisons between in‐person and online sessions.” We would like to offer additional commentary on the conclusions regarding group intervention and peer support and its heavy influence on combating eating disorders. We hope these perspectives may provide insight into areas that may require further research and improvement.

Bridging The Gap: Psychopharmacologic Education And Side Effect Screening For Non-Prescribing Mental Health Professionals, Elaine Fitzgerald

Dissertations

Abstract

Problem: The United States is experiencing a growing demand for pediatric mental health support. Surges in mental health diagnoses and psychotropic medication prescriptions have occurred, compounded by a shortage of psychiatric providers. Non-prescribing mental health professionals are well-positioned to recognize psychotropic medication side effects. However, psychologists and counselors lack formal pharmacology education.

Methods: The quality improvement (QI) initiative was guided by the Plan-Do-Study-Act (PDSA) model. The evidence-based psychopharmacologic education for non-prescribers utilized a quasi-experimental pre- and post- test design. Data collected from clinicians included knowledge, confidence, and skill concerning psychotropic medications. The Psychotropic Medication Monitoring Checklist (PMMC) screen clients …