Female Urogenital Diseases and Pregnancy Complications Commons^™

Developing Antibodies Against Galectin-3 And Galectin-9 To Target Endometriosis, Ashleigh Burger, Noah Farnsworth, Jared J. Reisnouer, Cheyenne Vue

2026 Symposium

Endometriosis is a disease characterized by pelvic pain and the formation of endometrial-like tissue on the outside of the uterine lining. This condition affects nearly 10% of women across the globe and confirming whether someone has endometriosis requires visualization in surgery. While the specific causes of this disease remain unclear, the over-expression of the Galectins 3 and 9 in ectopic endometrial tissues suggests a role in the development and maintenance of the condition. Monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) are highly specific proteins with potential as diagnostic or treatment tools. The goal of this study is to generate antibodies against Gal3 and Gal9. …

Improving Adherence To Comprehensive Gynecological Assessments In Female Rectal Cancer Patients Prior To Rectal Cancer Treatment, Rachael Smith, Eleanor Williams, Emily Young

Rowan-Virtua Research Day

Background: A retrospective chart review of 139 female patients with Stage I-III rectal cancer treated at our institution (2017-2022) revealed only 32.6% (n=45) had documented age-appropriate gynecologic screenings prior to surgical intervention. These findings were disseminated to colorectal surgeons, medical oncologists, and radiation oncologists through departmental meetings and tumor boards. This follow-up study evaluates the impact of that educational initiative on gynecologic referral patterns. 

Hypothesis: Targeted education of colorectal surgeons, medical oncologists, and radiation oncologists would significantly increase gynecologic referral rates for female rectal cancer patients. 

Methods: This pre-post quality improvement study compared gynecologic referral rates among female patients with …

Premenstrual Disorders In Females With Neurodevelopmental Conditions: A Systematic Review, Akhila Archakam, Nikhila Archakam, Harshal Parmar, Wesley Kim

Rowan-Virtua Research Day

Background: Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) and premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD) are prevalent conditions associated with substantial functional impairment and psychiatric morbidity. Symptoms are driven by heightened sensitivity to cyclical fluctuations in estrogen and progesterone rather than absolute hormone levels. Individuals with neurodevelopmental conditions, particularly attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and autism spectrum disorder (ASD), may exhibit altered neurobiological and emotional regulation pathways that increase vulnerability to these hormonal changes; however, this relationship has not been systematically synthesized.

Methods: A systematic review was conducted in accordance with PRISMA guidelines. PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane CENTRAL were searched from 2000–2026 for studies evaluating associations between ADHD, …

Impact Of Routine Yoga Practice On Metabolic And Hormonal Outcomes In Women With Polycystic Ovary Syndrome, Priya Patel

Rowan-Virtua Research Day

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a prevalent endocrine disorder affecting approximately 8–12% of reproductive-aged women and is commonly associated with insulin resistance, hyperandrogenism, and metabolic dysfunction¹. Lifestyle modification remains first-line therapy; however, adherence to conventional interventions is often limited²,³. As a result, there has been growing interest in complementary approaches such as yoga, which integrates physical activity, breath control, and stress reduction⁴.

This focused literature review evaluates the impact of routine yoga practice on metabolic and hormonal outcomes in women with PCOS. A comprehensive search of PubMed, Scopus, CINAHL, and Embase was conducted, identifying 201 articles. After screening and applying …

Impact Of Early Term Induction Of Labor On Cesarean Delivery And Impact Of Early Term Induction Of Labor On Cesarean Delivery And Maternal-Fetal Outcomes In Patients With Obesity: A Maternal-Fetal Outcomes In Patients With Obesity, Priya Patel, Nathanael Hoskins

Rowan-Virtua Research Day

Introduction: Obesity (body mass index [BMI] ≥30 kg/m²) in pregnancy is associated with increased risks, including gestational diabetes, hypertensive disorders, and higher cesarean delivery (CD) rates. Evidence supporting early-term (37 0/7–38 6/7 weeks) induction of labor (IOL) to improve outcomes remains limited. This study evaluated whether IOL in patients with obesity is associated with decreased CD rates.

Methods: This retrospective cohort study included pregnancies undergoing IOL between 37 0/7 and 41 6/7 weeks from 2018–2023 at a single institution. Exclusion criteria included spontaneous labor, prior CD, multiple gestations, fetal anomalies, non-vertex presentation, and pre-labor rupture of membranes. Primary exposures were …

Case Report: Postpartum Ovarian Vein Thrombosis Without Abdominal Pain, Moshammat Nishu, Russell Mordecai, James Espinosa, Alan Lucerna

Rowan-Virtua Research Day

We report a case of a 27-year-old woman (2 prior pregnancies: 1 term birth, 1 preterm birth, 2 living children)  who presented with right ovarian vein thrombosis (OVT) in the absence of abdominal pain on postpartum day 5 after spontaneous vaginal delivery. Although OVT is classically associated with abdominal pain, this case illustrates that OVT may present without abdominal pain and should be considered as a differential to prevent a delay of diagnosis in the emergency department. This case also highlights the diagnostic challenge in postpartum fever when an alternative infectious source may lead to premature closure and prevent the …

Case Report: Vancomycin-Resistant Enterococcus Faecium Urinary Tract Infection With Stercoral Colitis Presenting In An Elderly Patient, Muhammad Zain Raza, James Espinosa, Alan Lucerna

Rowan-Virtua Research Day

We report a case of a 76-year-old female who presented with altered mental status characterized by confusion, decreased verbal interaction, and reduced responsiveness noted by her spouse. The patient had a history of chronic constipation and was brought from home for further evaluation. Initial evaluation raised concern for infection or intracranial hemorrhage as a possible cause of altered mental status. Imaging of the CT brain without contrast was unremarkable, however; abdomen and pelvis revealed a large rectal stool impaction with rectal wall thickening and surrounding perirectal fat stranding consistent with Stercoral Colitis. Urine culture subsequently identified vancomycin-resistant enterococcus faecium. The …

Heterotopic Pregnancy: A Case Report, Oluwatomi Alade, Robin Lahr, James Espinosa, Alan Lucerna

Rowan-Virtua Research Day

Heterotopic pregnancy occurs when there is simultaneous intrauterine pregnancy as well as extra uterine ectopic pregnancy.  Historically, this was considered very rare with an estimated incidence of 1 in 30,000 pregnancies however, the incidence has been increased with the use of assisted reproductive  technology.  The most common location is the fallopian tube and less common include the cervix or the ovary. It can be difficult to diagnose because the presence of an intrauterine pregnancy on ultrasound may falsely reassure clinicians and delay evaluation for a concurrent ectopic pregnancy.  These patients usually present with nonspecific symptoms including abdominal pain, vaginal bleeding, …

Effect Of Pcos Treatment On Mental Health Outcomes, Audriti Mazumder, Aubrey Olson

Rowan-Virtua Research Day

Abstract (250 words)

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a common endocrine disorder associated with a range of physical symptoms, including hirsutism, acne, weight gain, insulin resistance, and infertility. While its metabolic and reproductive manifestations are well characterized, the impact of PCOS on mental health remains underexplored. This study aims to evaluate the relationship between PCOS and mental health outcomes, with a particular focus on changes in symptoms following treatment and the influence of demographic factors.

A survey-based study was conducted using a Qualtrics questionnaire distributed via QR code and social media platforms. Questions were modeled after validated screening tools, including …

A Case Of Choledocholithiasis In A Patient With A Recent History Of Hellp Syndrome And Pre-Eclampsia, Akhil Tumpudi

Rowan-Virtua Research Day

Jaundice in a patient presenting to the emergency department (ED) can be indicative of a range of conditions, and it's important to determine the underlying cause for proper management. Here we describe a case of an unusual presentation of choledocholithiasis in a 25-year-old female with a recent history of HELLP and preeclampsia.

Maternal Health And Nutrition: Combating Maternal Mortality Through Proper Nutrition, Archna Mahendru, Yeisanai Cardona Torres, Maya Blayne Partee, Katarina Rusinak

Rowan-Virtua Research Day

Maternal mortality is an increasing concern in the United States. According to the WHO, from 2018-2022 the Maternal Mortality Rate (MMR) was 23.3 deaths per every 100,000 live births. New Jersey's MMR exceeded this average at 26 per 100,000 during the same period, with 91% of cases deemed preventable. While medical care plays a crucial role, research shows that non-medical determinants such as food insecurity, lack of nutritional education, limited access to transportation, and systemic barriers to health care contribute significantly to maternal health outcomes. Among these factors, proper nutrition plays a critical role before and during pregnancy, particularly in …

The Impact Of Environmental Deficiencies On Maternal Health Outcomes, Zahra Wallizadeh, Emiyah Bullock, Antoinette Jones, Katarina Rusinak

Rowan-Virtua Research Day

This study examines the environmental factors contributing to adverse maternal health outcomes in New Jersey, with particular focus on their disproportionate impact on minority women. Analysis of data from PubMed, Policy Map, NIH, CDC, EPA, and the New Jersey Department of Health reveals that women living in low-income areas face significant environmental challenges, including food deserts, air pollution, unsafe living conditions, inadequate infrastructure, and limited transportation options. These environmental determinants exacerbate maternal stress and contribute to complications such as preterm birth and hypertension. Black women are nearly three times more vulnerable to these adverse outcomes compared to white women, highlighting …

An Epidemiological Approach To The Rise In Syphilis In The United States Between 2018 And 2022, Ashley Forrest, Erica Rankin, Lahana Maharjan, Cyril Blavo, Jyotsna Chawla

HCA-NSU MD Research Day

Objective. This study aimed to investigate the recent increase in syphilis rates from 2018 to 2022, utilizing publicly available data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Background. Syphilis has seen a dramatic resurgence since 2018, reaching levels not observed since the 1940s. While this increase has prompted significant discourse among healthcare professionals, a comprehensive demographic analysis remains limited. Methods. CDC public datasets from 2018 to 2022 were analyzed descriptively, followed by chi-squared tests and logistic regression modeling conducted using R. The analysis examined syphilis rates across different demographic and behavioral factors, including sex, race/ethnicity, and reported sexual …

Surviving The Shock: Critical Management Of Klebsiella Pneumoniae Septic Shock In A Pregnant Patient, Oliverio J. Abarca Guzman, Michelle Minero

Research Colloquium

Background: Klebsiella pneumoniae bacteremia is a known cause of septic shock, but its occurrence in the context of chorioamnionitis during pregnancy, especially with imminent abortion of one twin, is rare. This case report highlights the critical care management and outcomes of a 24-year-old woman who developed septic shock due to Klebsiella pneumoniae bacteremia.

Case Presentation: A 24-year-old gravida 4, para 2 woman at 17 weeks gestation with a dichorionic diamniotic twin pregnancy presented in septic shock after delivering a nonviable twin A at home. Suspected sepsis secondary to chorioamnionitis with retained placenta was confirmed by laboratory results showing Klebsiella pneumoniae …

Chronic Schizophrenia Presenting With Psychogenic Polydipsia Masking Stage Iv Uterine Adenocarcinoma, Dakota B. Pastore, Kamayel Jaludi, Angelo Sica

Rowan-Virtua Research Day

Background: Psychogenic polydipsia (PPD) is a condition of excessive water intake and seeking behavior with a 6-20% prevalence among patients with psychiatric illnesses, commonly Schizophrenia. It remains unknown how often concomitant disease can mask other, more serious conditions in psychiatric patients.

Case Description: The patient is a 58-year-old Hispanic, white female with chronic schizophrenia complicated by multiple hospitalizations for hyponatremia secondary to PPD. The patient initially presented to the emergency department (ED) in 2016 with abdominal pain, was treated symptomatically and discharged. From 2020 to 2023, the patient was readmitted seven more times, with two suspected aspirin overdoses, an Ambien …

A Rare Intervention: Perimortem Hysterotomy In An Obstetric Emergency In A 32-Year-Old Female, Alec Mirchandani

Rowan-Virtua Research Day

In the realm of obstetric emergencies, perimortem hysterotomy stands as a rare but crucial intervention, employed in dire circumstances to salvage both maternal and fetal lives. This procedure, involving the surgical delivery of a fetus from a mother in cardiac arrest, presents a unique set of challenges and ethical considerations for healthcare providers. This case report delves into the intricate details surrounding a perimortem hysterotomy performed under emergent conditions, exploring the clinical decision-making process, procedural intricacies, and outcomes. Through this narrative, we aim to shed light on the complexities of managing obstetric emergencies, emphasizing the critical role of timely intervention …

Use Of Point-Of-Care Ultrasound In The Diagnosis Of Postpartum Cardiomyopathy, Muhammad Noman, Frank A. Wheeler, James A. Espinosa, Alan Lucerna

Rowan-Virtua Research Day

Postpartum cardiomyopathy (PPCM), also known as peripartum cardiomyopathy is a rare form of heart failure (HF) that occurs in the late stages of pregnancy or in the early postpartum period. For it to be classified as PPCM, it must occur in the absence of another identifiable cause for HF and have left ventricular (LV) systolic dysfunction with an LV ejection fraction (LVEF) less than 45%. Here we present the case of a 46-year-old female G3P2 presented 5 days postpartum cesarean section delivery in acute respiratory distress where point of care ultrasound was used for assessment of the lungs to visualize …

Dermoid Cyst – Presenting With Llq Abdominal Pain, Mohammad A. Rattu, James A. Espinosa

Rowan-Virtua Research Day

Ovarian cysts are fluid-filled structures that may be defined as simple or complex and are often discovered incidentally on imaging. Their etiology can range from physiologically normal (such as follicular or luteal cysts) to ovarian malignancies. They are more common in the reproductive years secondary to endogenous hormonal production however may also occur at any age. Simple cysts more commonly occur among all age groups; mixed cystic and solid and completely solid ovarian lesions however have rates of increased malignancy. The most independent risk factor is age; therefore, post-menopausal women should have proper follow-up secondary to this risk. Some risk …

Maternal Health Outcomes Of The Least And Most Vulnerable Counties In Nj, Nayarith Lopez

Rowan-Virtua Research Day

- Maternal health continues to be of great concern in the United States.

-The maternal mortality rate for 2021 was 32.9 deaths per 100,000 live births, an increase from both 2020 and 2021.1

-The leading causes of pregnancy-related death are mental health, hemorrhage, and cardiovascular conditions. Most are preventable.2

-New Jersey ranks 27th, with 24.1 deaths occurring within 42 days of the end of a pregnancy per 100,000 live births.3

-While rates for the entire state show a need for improvement, in comparison to northern and central regions, rates in the southern region of NJ are approximately twice the state …

What Is The Efficacy Of The Newly Developed Hpv Vaccine, Cecolin, In Providing Protection Against Hpv-Induced Cervical Cancers In Females Aged 9-14 Years Old, Yolanda Williams

Rowan-Virtua Research Day

In low to middle income countries, there's a rise in invasive cervical squamous cell carcinoma. Affordability emerges as a crucial factor influencing this trend. This research is based on the development of a new HPV vaccine made in China called Ceolin priced at $47 and its efficacy to be incorporated into the WHO vaccination program. A peer review was conducted based on an ongoing randomized phase 3 clinical trial of a 2 dose regimen bivalent Cecolin vaccine (types 16,18) . The study includes 1025 females aged 9-14 years old split amongst 5 groups. The control group received Gardasil at the …

Management Strategies For Traumatic Injuries In Pregnant Women: A Comprehensive Literature Review, Jaylyn D. Thompson, Jenna Zappetti, Clarence Julian Clark Ii

Rowan-Virtua Research Day

Introduction: Traumatic injuries in pregnant women are the leading cause of non-obstetric death and affect 6% to 8% of all pregnancies. Therefore, it is imperative to maintain updated guidelines to construct a framework for the optimal management strategies for traumatic injuries in pregnant women, considering the perspectives of obstetrics/gynecology, emergency medicine, and orthopedics.

Methods: To conduct this study, research was done via a database search through the Rowan-Virtua School of Osteopathic Medicine’s research library. PubMed was the sole database used to review 8 peer-reviewed sources. Articles that were published within the last 10 years were chosen.

Results: Every woman with …

Investigating The Efficacy Of Myo-Inositol In Adolescents With Polycystic Ovary Syndrome: A Scoping Review, Mariam Sharobeem

Rowan-Virtua Research Day

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) affects approximately 6 to 13% of adolescent girls in the United States.6 PCOS poses difficulty with diagnosing and treatment with adolescents as its symptoms are heterogenous and are often rationalized with other diagnoses. Key diagnostic features of PCOS include irregular menstruation, infertility, obesity, hirsutism, increased risk of diabetes mellitus, hypertension, lipid abnormalities and metabolic syndrome.12 Currently, there are no pharmacological therapies approved by the FDA to treat PCOS.5 Alternatives include pharmacological management of symptoms with medications like combined oral contraceptive pills, metformin and anti-obesity agents.6 Recently, more discussion about the lack of PCOS treatment has been …

Barriers In Health Care Leading To High Maternal Mortality Rates In Southern New Jersey, Katarina Rusinak, Muznah Khan, Ava Dinardo, Nayarith Lopez

Rowan-Virtua Research Day

Maternal mortality remains a significant issue in New Jersey, particularly in the Southern counties where rates are alarmingly high. This study investigates barriers faced by mothers in these areas, utilizing data from state health departments, as well as the CDC. Findings reveal clear disparities in healthcare access and resources, exacerbated by high poverty and rural settings. Proposed interventions include educational posters and community workshops to empower expecting mothers and families. However, challenges such as low attendance and limited effectiveness of interventions underscore the need for comprehensive, sustainable solutions to tackle maternal mortality in Southern New Jersey.

Addressing The Black Maternal Mortality Rate, Kennedy Sanders, Venkateswar Venkataraman, Kate Whelihan

Rowan-Virtua Research Day

Introduction: As of 2021, the Black maternal mortality rate in the United States was 69.9 deaths per 100,000 live births as compared to the national average of 32.9 and the White American average of 26.61. It has been demonstrated that this discrepancy is not fully explained by socioeconomic status. Doulas are professionals who provide support and guidance throughout pregnancy, birth, and early parenthood. Encouraging the use of doulas may be an effective approach to improve the birth experience for Black mothers. Methods: A literature review was performed using PubMed and the following search strings: maternal mortality rate (+race, +race +ethnicity, …

Case Report: An Emergency Department Presentation Of An Ovarian Teratoma, David Marconi, Zamron Masih

Rowan-Virtua Research Day

A teratoma (from the Greek terato for “monster” and onkoma for “mass” or “swelling”) is a type of neoplasm composed of tissues from two or three germ layers. Mature cystic teratomas (MCTs) constitute 70% of all ovarian neoplasms. They typically present with nonspecific symptoms such as pain and nausea. They account for approximately 2% of all primary ovarian malignant cancers and are predominately diagnosed via ultrasound. Computed tomography may be necessary if malignancy is suspected. Larger size warrants a higher suspicion of malignancy. Management is symptom control and ultimately, surgical removal. Prognosis is generally excellent, provided there is no malignant …

The Dual Delivery Of Y15 And Metformin In A Plga Scaffold For The Treatment Of Platinum Resistant Ovarian Cancer, Emily M. Jordan, Hannah Obregon, Arkene Levy, Sue Anne Chew

Research Symposium

Background: Ovarian cancer is the fifth leading cause of cancer mortality among women in the US. High mortality is linked to resistance to platinum compounds. Currently there is no treatment for platinum resistant ovarian cancer (OCpt). Platinum resistance shows increased activity of focal adhesion kinase (FAK). Y15 is a FAK inhibitor and increases OCpt sensitivity to chemotherapy. Metformin induces apoptosis, has no increased cytotoxicity, and works synergistically with Y15 in OCpt cells. Biomaterial scaffolds deliver drugs locally, maximizing drug concentration and bioavailability while minimizing systemic toxicity. PLGA copolymer has excellent biocompatibility, versatility, and a tailorable degradation rate. The objective of …

The Effects Of Prenatal Buprenorphine Exposure On The Neurobehavioral Development Of The Child, Zaineb Zubair, Maryam Zubair, Juan Alonso, Abdullah Zubair

Rowan-Virtua Research Day

Background: Current guidelines for pregnant women with substance use disorder advise prenatal maintenance of opioid agonist therapy with either buprenorphine or methadone. Despite this rise in prenatal opioid agonist therapy, little is known about the effect of prenatal buprenorphine on the neurobehavioral development of the child. This poses the question: does buprenorphine have a long-lasting effect on the central and peripheral nervous system development and behavior of children who were exposed prenatally?

Methods: A comprehensive literature review identified articles relating to prenatal buprenorphine and neurobehavioral outcomes. Article searches were conducted on PubMed and Dynamed. Publications from 2002 through November 2021 …

Is There An Association Between Preeclampsia/Eclampsia And Congenital Heart Disease Among The Neurodivergent Population?, Jasmine Emanuel, Venkateswar Venkataraman, Jennifer Lecomte, Andrea Iannuzzelli

Rowan-Virtua Research Day

Preeclampsia and eclampsia are very common gestational conditions among pregnant individuals worldwide. These individuals are diagnosed with high blood pressure (after 20 weeks of gestation), proteinuria/end-stage organ disease, and may include seizures. These conditions can put the mother and fetus at risk. A review of literature has shown that there is an association between cardiovascular defects among the neurodivergent population, where these individuals have a higher risk of developing atrial septal defects and ventricular septal defects. The Rowan-Virtua Integrated Special Needs (RISN) Center patient population will be used to investigate whether preeclampsia/eclampsia in mothers is indicative of higher congenital heart …

The Possible Relationship Of Adiponectin And Gestational Weight Gain During Different Stages Of Pregnancy Amongst Different Ethnic Groups, Jayshree Chauhan, Xinhua Chen

Rowan-Virtua Research Day

Introduction: Gestational Weight Gain (GWG) is defined as weight gain between conception and birth. Adiponectin, a fat derived hormone, has an inverse relationship with weight gain. We investigated the relationship of maternal adiponectin concentration and GWG during different pregnancy stages among ethnic groups. Method: Serum adiponectin levels were measured at entry (week 16) and trimester three (week 28) in pregnant women (n = 1634, age 22.0±5.3, pre-pregnancy BMI 25.7±6.3) which included Hispanic (47%), African American (37%) and Caucasian (16%) women. GWG was measured at week 24, 28, 32, and delivery and was divided into inadequate, adequate, and excessive according to …

Evaluation Of Outcome Following Oocyte Retrieval In Women With Marked Diminished Oocyte Reserve (Dor) Where The Only Oocyte Retrieved Was In A Metaphase I State, Brooke Neumann, Jerome Check, Carrie Wilson, Donna Summers, Kathleen Hollahan

Rowan-Virtua Research Day

OBJECTIVE: To determine if there is value in culturing a metaphase I oocyte to metaphase II followed by intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI), fertilization, then embryo transfer (ET) in women with marked DOR. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) receptor up-regulation technique was used in women whose day 3 serum FSH levels were >12 mIU/mL and/or the serum anti-mullerian (AMH) level was <1ng/mL to mature antral follicle(s) to the dominant follicle stage (average diameter >18) and serum estradiol (E2) >200pg/mL when 10,000 IU human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) would be given followed by oocyte retrieval 32 hours later. The basic tenet of this follicle maturation technique is to 1) use very little …