Investigative Techniques Commons^™

Crispr/Cas9-Based Genome Editing: Understanding Differences In Dna Repair Pathways, Profiles, And Outcomes, Samuel Effah, Shirley Barrera, Nahia Urturi Ortiz, Will Dampier, Michael Nonnemacher, Brian Wigdahl

Kimmel Cancer Center Faculty Papers

Over a decade of advances in Clustered Regularly Interspersed Short Palindromic Repeats (CRISPR) and CRISPR-associated protein 9 (Cas9)-based technologies have culminated in the first-ever FDA-approved CRISPR/Cas-based therapy. Aside from this approved therapy for sickle cell anemia, several CRISPR/Cas-based therapies are currently under development or testing for a range of chronic diseases, including viral diseases like human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1) infection, genetic diseases like familial hypercholesterolemia, and cancer. The success of these therapies hinges on the effective delivery of CRISPR/Cas9 components to target regions, efficient Cas endonuclease editing, repair profiles generated, and their resulting outcomes. Here, we discuss the …

Evaluating Chest-Worn Light Logger Adherence: Development And Application Of A Wear/Non-Wear Model, Carlyn Patterson Gentile, Adah Thomas, Ryan Shah, Blanca Marquez De Prado, Nichelle Raj, Christina Szperka, Geoffrey Aguirre

Student Papers, Posters & Projects

Light exposure plays an important role in overall health because it entrains circadian rhythms. Recent technological advances in wearable light loggers allow measurement daily light exposure habits. Using a chest-worn light logger, our goal was to (1) develop methodology for differentiating adherent versus non-adherent use, and (2) define differences in lighting intensity in indoor and outdoor environments, to improve data reliability in future clinical studies using this technology. Four testers used a 10-channel chest worn light logging device under different conditions of wear and non-wear (experiment 1), and another tester made measurements with the light logger across a variety of …

Pixel-Level Fiber Stratification: Quantitative Imaging Analysis Of Pigmented Lesion Morphology, Alexia R. Gerogiannis, Caroline R. Saint James

Wetterhahn Science Symposium Posters

Using a combined two-photon excitation fluorescence (TPEF) and second-harmonic generation (SHG) approach, our research seeks to further the quantification of skin components in a quest toward diagnostic tools with higher accuracy and reduced invasiveness for patients. Images are taken both ex vivo and in vivo, of healthy and malignant tissues, with a 600 × 600 micron field of view. We demonstrate how computational analysis can effectively exploit signals emitted by skin to provide diagnostic insight.

Validation And Implementation Of Automated Planning Optimization In Utah Valley Hospital, Oluwatobi Adeniji

UNLV Theses, Dissertations, Professional Papers, and Capstones

The increasing complexity of modern radiotherapy demands planning workflows that are efficient, standardized, and dosimetrically robust across diverse disease sites. Knowledge-based planning (KBP) systems such as RapidPlan offer a data-driven approach to automate and improve treatment planning by learning geometric–dosimetric relationships from high-quality clinical plans. In this work, I am evaluating the performance, generalizability, and clinical applicability of vendor-provided RapidPlan models across seven anatomical sites: intracranial SRS, prostate SBRT, right and left lung SBRT, liver SBRT, head and neck, and glioblastoma. Subsequently, a complementary institution-specific SRS model tailored to single-isocenter multitarget workflows was created. Seventy retrospectively selected patients were replanned …

Multi-Grader Validation Of The Telemedicine Retinopathy Of Prematurity Severity Score, Harrison W. Pratt, Sarthak V. Shah, Cindy S. Zhao, Arthur R. Brant, Caroline R. Baumal, Cagri G. Besirli, Audina M. Berrocal, Kimberley A. Drenser, Anna L. Ells, Clio Armitage Harper, G. Baker Hubbard, Eric D. Nudleman, Polly Quiram, Irena Tsui, Edward Wood, Yoshihiro Yonekawa, Tatiana Rosenblatt, Jochen Kumm, Darius M. Moshfeghi

Wills Eye Hospital Papers

We aimed to statefully validate Retinopathy of Prematurity (ROP) grading by evaluating intergrader variability over age-matched simulated exams. In a prospective retinal photographic grading cohort study, both eyes of twenty patients with five images per eye per visit were graded by twelve expert graders across six weekly visits. For each eye visit, ROP experts graded the Zone, Stage, and Plus, from which the Telemedicine ROP Severity Score (tROP-SS) was calculated. Graders retained knowledge of prior assessments for a given eye and followed International Classification of ROP rules. Intergrader coefficient of variation (CoV) for Zone, Stage, Plus, and tROP-SS remained below …

Transition To Noninvasive Testing From The Gold Standard Of Liver Biopsy, Heidi Bien, Sabina Choudhry, Christine Pocha, University Of South Dakota Sanford School Of Medicine & Avera Health System

Scholarship Pathways Program

Purpose: Metabolic dysfunction–associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD), formerly known as non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, represents a rapidly growing public health concern, affecting roughly 30% of the global population. MASLD encompasses a spectrum from simple steatosis to its more progressive form, metabolic dysfunction–associated steatohepatitis (MASH). Early and accurate assessment of liver disease is critical for risk stratification and management, yet the current gold standard-liver biopsy remains invasive, costly, and limited by sampling variability and interpretive subjectivity. Noninvasive imaging modalities, particularly magnetic resonance elastography (MRE), have emerged as promising alternatives, but their concordance with biopsy in real-world clinical practice remains underexplored.

 Methods: …

Evaluating The Efficacy Of The Confusion Assessment Method For The Icu (Cam-Icu) In Reducing Length Of Stay Among Critically Ill Patients: A Scoping Review, John Simmons, Fay Nelson, Keith Hunt, Lindsey Waller, Tracy Mcclinton Dnp, Aprn, Agacnp-Bc, Hget-C, Ebp-C

Doctor of Nursing Practice Projects

Purpose/Background

Delirium is a prevalent complication among critically ill patients in intensive care units (ICUs), associated with increased mortality, prolonged hospital stays, and higher healthcare costs. The Confusion Assessment Method for the ICU (CAM-ICU) is a validated tool designed to aid in the early identification of delirium; however, systematic screening remains low among healthcare professionals. This scoping review aims to evaluate the efficacy of the CAM-ICU in identifying delirium and its potential impact on reducing ICU length of stay.

Method

            This scoping review began by establishing inclusion criteria to ensure the results were applicable to the researchers’ patient population, including …

Medication-Assisted Treatment For Patients With Substance Use Disorder And Depression: A Scoping Review, Josiane Deguenon Bsn-Rn, Elisabeth Fritz Bsn-Rn, Jesse Jean Bsn-Rn, Tucker Mckinney Bsn-Rn, Laura Reed Dnp, Aprn, Fnp-Bc, Cne, Fnap

Doctor of Nursing Practice Projects

Purpose/Background

Substance use disorder (SUD) frequently co-occurs with depression and increases relapse risk and healthcare utilization. Although medication-assisted treatment (MAT) is an evidence-based intervention for SUD, outcomes for adults with co-occurring depression remain inconsistently reported due to variation in study designs, treatment settings, and measures. This scoping review examines evidence on MAT use among adults with co-occurring depression and SUD and summarized reported clinical and healthcare utilization outcomes.

Methods

From August 2023 to November 2025, a scoping literature review was conducted on PubMed/MEDLINE, CINAHL, and the Cochrane Library, using MeSH search terms and Boolean operators to link the concepts defined …

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 …

Aspirin And Preterm Birth Among Pregnant People With Increased Heat Exposure: Secondary Analysis Of A Randomized Clinical Trial, Gabriella Meltzer, Luke Duttweiler, Sarah Saleem, Kartik Shankar, Manolo Mazariegos, Antoinette Tshefu, Jackie Patterson, Elwyn Chomba, Waldemar Carlo, Shivaprasad Goudar, Richard Derman, Archana Patel, Patricia Hibberd, Edward Liechty, Fabian Essamai, Edwin Asturias, Denise Babineau, Janet Moore, Cascade Tuholske, Andrew Zimmer, Brent Coull, Elizabeth Mcclure, Robert Goldenberg, Nancy Krebs, Matthew Hoffman, Blair Wylie

Global Health Articles

IMPORTANCE: Scalable interventions are urgently needed to mitigate the adverse effects of heat on pregnancy and newborn health.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate whether low-dose aspirin modifies the association between heat exposure and preterm birth.

DESIGN, SETTING, AND PARTICIPANTS: This secondary analysis of the Global Network for Women's and Children's Health Research Aspirin Supplementation for Pregnancy Indicated Risk Reduction in Nulliparas (ASPIRIN) randomized, double-blinded, placebo-controlled clinical trial was conducted from March 2016 to June 2018. Statistical analyses were performed from June 2024 to June 2025. The study settings included the Democratic Republic of Congo, Zambia, Kenya, Guatemala, Pakistan, and Belagavi and Nagpur, …

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 …

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 …

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 …

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 …

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 …