Analytical, Diagnostic and Therapeutic Techniques and Equipment Commons^™

Toward The Application Of Natural Language Processing In Electronic Health Record Analysis For Taxonomy Development, Latoya Mcdonald

All Dissertations

Electronic health records (EHRs) are pivotal resources for nurse practice because they increase the timeliness and reliability of patient information at the point of care and support access by multiple healthcare providers and the individual patients themselves. However, it is widely recognized that data extraction from EHRs is challenging due to the variability in the language used in clinical care notes and the lack of standardized terminology across healthcare systems. The broad objective of this dissertation is to develop taxonomy-based classification models for nursing care by applying feature engineering approaches to EHRs that include nursing care of ostomy patients following …

Comparative Long-Term Outcomes Of Cell Therapy And Cardiac Rehabilitation In The Treatment Of Non-Ischemic Dilated Cardiomyopathy, Awrush Sean Namazi, Susrut Dube, Jay Kishor Patel

Rowan-Virtua Research Day

This systematic review explores long-term treatment approaches for non-ischemic dilated cardiomyopathy, comparing cell therapy and cardiac rehabilitation. Cardiomyopathy is characterized by the progressive thinning and deterioration of cardiac muscle and is a significant cause of heart failure. Various treatment modalities have been developed to combat cardiomyopathy and prevent the onset of heart failure, with more recent efforts focusing on cell therapy—particularly allogeneic and autologous stem cell transplants. The efficacy of these novel treatments was compared to more established regimens, particularly cardiac rehabilitation. Studies demonstrate that both treatment modalities are associated with a significant overall improvement in ejection fraction (effect size …

Ultrasonographic Appearance Of Suspected Zinner Syndrome, Wen Hao Luo, Jared Garfinkle, Jack Hennen, Robert Martin, Kathleen Deiling

Rowan-Virtua Research Day

Zinner syndrome (ZS) is a rare congenital condition characterized by the triad of unilateral renal agenesis, ipsilateral seminal vesicle cyst, and ipsilateral ejaculatory duct obstruction. ZS is suspected to be caused by the malformation of the mesonephric duct during embryogenesis. The incomplete migration of the ureteric bud results in ipsilateral renal agenesis and ejaculatory duct obstruction. The remaining gonad develops with inadequate seminal fluid drainage, leading to the formation of seminal vesicle cysts. ZS is often asymptomatic, leading to challenges in diagnosis, particularly in adolescents. Symptoms can include pain, dysuria, pollakisuria, perineal pain, epididymitis, and pain after ejaculation. Imaging plays …

Evaluation Of Human Mesenchymal Stromal Cells (Msc) As An Adjuvant Therapeutic For Chronic Lyme Disease, Matthew Teryek

Rowan-Virtua Research Day

Background: Lyme disease, caused by the spirochetal bacterium Borrelia burgdorferi, is the most prevalent vector-borne illness in the Northern Hemisphere. If undiagnosed or untreated, the disease progresses through multiple stages of increasing clinical severity. While antibiotics such as doxycycline and ceftriaxone are the current standard of care, patients with chronic or late-stage Lyme disease may require additional therapeutic interventions.

Rationale: Human mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are of growing clinical interest due to their immunomodulatory properties, low immunogenicity, and potential to promote tissue repair. These characteristics position MSCs as promising adjuvant therapies for chronic Lyme disease, with the potential to …

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 …

Kratom As A Therapeutic Option For Opioid Use Disorder​: A Comprehensive Review​, Harmann Singh, Abdullah Noory, Akash M. Patel, Kush C. Patel, Simran Gandhi

Rowan-Virtua Research Day

Kratom (Mitragyna speciosa) has gained significant attention for its potential role in managing opioid use disorder (OUD). This review examines kratom’s pharmacology, safety profile, addiction potential, and ethical considerations in research, while exploring its future as a therapeutic option. Kratom’s primary alkaloids, mitragynine and 7-hydroxymitragynine, act as partial mu-opioid receptor agonists, producing analgesic and sedative effects at higher doses and stimulant-like effects at lower doses. Preclinical and observational studies suggest kratom may alleviate opioid withdrawal symptoms and cravings, but concerns remain regarding its dependency potential and adverse effects, including gastrointestinal distress, hepatotoxicity, and withdrawal symptoms upon cessation. While kratom carries …

The Use Of Intramedullary Screw For Fixation Of Distal Ulnar Fractures, Adam Lencer, John Pignataro, Justin Le, Joyce Daniel Suarez, Michael Rivlin

Rowan-Virtua Research Day

Background

Distal ulna fractures frequently accompany distal radius fractures but are often underappreciated in both clinical and research contexts. While conservative management is frequently employed, particularly following volar locking plate (VLP) fixation of the radius, certain indications, such as distal radioulnar joint (DRUJ) instability, comminution, or high-energy trauma, may necessitate surgical fixation. This study evaluates patient-reported outcomes among patients with distal radius fractures treated operatively, comparing those with and without concomitant distal ulna fractures, and further stratifying based on the method of ulna fixation.

Methods

This retrospective review included 477 patients treated operatively for distal radius fractures by a single …

Igg4-Related Autoimmune Pancreatitis In Patients With Prior Occupational Exposure: A Case Report And Review Of Risks Concerning Blue-Collared Workers, Zachary A. Coren, Justin Le, Jason Tran, Nicholas Moscardelli, Krish Patel, Joshua Coren

Rowan-Virtua Research Day

Autoimmune pancreatitis (AIP), a manifestation of IgG4-related disease (IgG4-RD), is a rare, often misdiagnosed condition that can closely mimic pancreatic cancer, particularly in its clinical and radiographic presentation. We report the case of a 76-year-old retired plumber who presented with painless jaundice and was initially suspected to have pancreatic cancer based on imaging findings. Subsequent endoscopic evaluation, biopsy, and markedly elevated serum IgG4 levels led to a diagnosis of type 1 AIP. Treatment with corticosteroids resulted in rapid clinical improvement and reduction in IgG4 levels, confirming the diagnosis.

This case highlights the diagnostic challenges of AIP, especially among blue-collar workers …

Outcomes Of Left Atrial Appendage Occlusion In Patients With Obstructive Sleep Apnea: A Comprehensive National Study, Tony Elias, Fady Beshara, Daniel Basta, Mena Elmalh, Matthew Ebrahim, Taha Syed, Olga Sarah, Abdallah Hussein

Rowan-Virtua Research Day

We sought to explore a sample of the inpatient population with OSA with AF who underwent LAAO.

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.

Artificial Intelligence In Detecting Heart Failure - A Systematic Review, Dale Shober, Kyle Kowalski, Aria Sen

Rowan-Virtua Research Day

Many studies have presented an artificial intelligence (AI) model to read electrocardiograms (ECGs) for the purpose of detecting or classifying the severity of heart failure. While most literature suggests that these AI-ECG models are effective at detecting or classifying heart failure, their efficacy in comparison to the current standards of care is not well researched. Furthermore, the barriers to implementation and the risks of these systems have not been studied and compiled. This literature review aims to outline the efficacy of AI-ECG models, determine how effective AI-ECG is in comparison to the standards of care, and outline the barriers to …

Volatile Anesthetic Exposure During Organogenesis (Weeks 6-9): Implications For Fetal Brain Development, Cheryce Daniel, Kylon Coombs

Rowan-Virtua Research Day

Organogenesis, particularly during gestational weeks 6 through 9, represent a critical window for fetal brain development. During this period, neurogenesis, neural tube closure and synaptic organization are actively occurring. Disruption of these processes, especially from exogenous agents, can result in lasting developmental consequences.

The U.S Food and Drug Administration has issued warnings regarding the use of anesthetic agents such as isoflurane, sevoflurane, and desflurane. Noting the potential risk of neurotoxic effects on the developing brain. This warning is particularly highlighted when administered drugs are present for long periods of time or during repeated procedures. The goal of this literature review …

Enhancing Diagnostic Accuracy In Dyspnea: The Role Of Ai-Enhanced Ecg Interpretation, Sami Asif, Ayesha Mushtaq

Rowan-Virtua Research Day

Dyspnea is a frequent and diagnostically challenging presentation in emergency departments, requiring rapid distinction between cardiac and non-cardiac causes. Traditional approaches, including NT-proBNP testing and clinical assessment, often lack optimal sensitivity and specificity. Recent advancements in artificial intelligence (AI) have introduced AI-enhanced electrocardiogram (ECG) analysis as a promising diagnostic tool capable of identifying cardiac dysfunction with high accuracy.

A structured literature review was performed using PubMed to identify randomized controlled trials, prospective validations, and systematic reviews published between 2018 and 2024. Studies evaluating AI-ECG performance, NT-proBNP testing, and clinical assessment in adult patients presenting with dyspnea were included. Data extracted …

A Better Road To Recovery- Effectiveness Of Osteopathic Manipulative Treatment Compared To Conventional Methods On Post-Concussion Patients, Joliana H. Eskandar

Rowan-Virtua Research Day

Background:

Concussion, a form of traumatic brain injury, often presents with sleep disturbances, headache, confusion, and memory impairment. Current treatment includes reduced screen time, physical activity, and increased rest. For decades, these treatment options have demonstrated improvement in symptoms. Recently, there is growing interest in whether using osteopathic manipulative treatment (OMT) to target structural dysfunctions is more effective. This review compares OMT to conventional treatment methods in post-concussion patients.

Methods:

This literature review uses data from clinical trials, randomized controlled trials, observational studies, and case reports within the past 10-15 years. It includes adolescents, adults, elderly, athletes, and non-athletes while …

Effect Of A Mindfulness State Induced By Marconi Union’S Weightless On Perceived Loneliness: A Pilot Study, Ayman Khatib, Richard Jermyn, Judith Lightfoot

Rowan-Virtua Research Day

Background: Loneliness is associated with increases in risk for cardiovascular disease, depression, and Alzheimer’s disease. As a result, there is an urgent need for treatments that can help reduce loneliness. Studies have shown that practicing mindfulness techniques may help reduce the experience of loneliness. Digital sound therapy that incorporates biofeedback can help individuals enter a mindfulness state with minimal effort by simply listening to sound. One song titled Weightless by Marconi Union has been called the most relaxing song in the world with the capacity to reduce anxiety by 65% and equivalent to midazolam6. We hypothesize that watching the “Weightless” …

Identifying Early Presentation Of Serotonin Syndrome In A 20-Year-Old Male Prescribed Clomipramine And Quetiapine: A Case Report, Veronica Alday, Justin Scarano, Jonathan Yuh, Christie Richardson

Rowan-Virtua Research Day

Serotonin syndrome, a potentially life-threatening condition, can be challenging to diagnose due to its diverse etiology and varied symptomatology. Despite its severity, serotonin syndrome may present from mild to fatal, with symptoms such as autonomic instability, altered mental status, and neuromuscular excitation (e.g. muscle rigidity, hyperreflexia). Here, we present a 20-year-old male with an extensive psychiatric history who was prescribed clomipramine and developed serotonin syndrome. Few cases of serotonin syndrome have been reported to date, exacerbating the difficulty in recognizing and quickly treating such cases. Cases of serotonin syndrome should continue to be reported, in order to familiarize clinicians with …

The Anxiolytic Effects Of Ashwagandha Supplementation In Adults With Autism Spectrum Disorder And Anxiety, Jessica Mitchell, Andrea Iannuzzelli, Wendy Aita

Rowan-Virtua Research Day

BACKGROUND: The neuroendocrine system activates the hypothalamus-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis during stress,1 and individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) may have atypical stress responses linked to HPA axis dysregulation.2 Prolonged activation of this system increases cortisol secretion, the body’s primary stress hormone.3 Withania somnifera (Ashwagandha) is a traditional herbal remedy believed to reduce stress by modulating the HPA axis and lowering cortisol levels.5

HYPOTHESIS: Following four weeks of Ashwagandha supplementation, the treatment group is expected to exhibit reduced cortisol levels, improved Aberrant Behavior Checklist (ABC) scores, and decreased stress-related behaviors, reflecting its anxiolytic effects.

METHODS: Forty-two adult participants with ASD and …

Case Report: A Case Of Transient Dress Syndrome (Drug Rash With Eosinophilia And Systemic Symptoms), Dip Patel, James Espinosa, Alan Lucerna

Rowan-Virtua Research Day

We report a case of a 41-year-old female with a history of hypertension who presented with fever and a diffuse erythematous rash after taking trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole (TMP-SMX) for an ear infection. Due to her symptoms, mild eosinophilia, and elevated liver function tests, Drug Reaction with Eosinophilia and Systemic Symptoms (DRESS) was suspected. Although the patient’s rash had resolved by the time of initial evaluation, it recurred overnight, reinforcing suspicion for DRESS syndrome. TMP-SMX was discontinued, and acetylcysteine was administered due to the patient’s high-dose use of acetaminophen in the days prior to her hospital presentation. Infectious and autoimmune workups were negative. …