Chemicals and Drugs Commons^™

Accelerating Wound Healing Rates With Cucurbita Pepo Leaf Extract Loaded Electrospun Poly(Methyl Methacrylate)/Halloysite/Chitosan/ Caco₃ Composite Nanofibers Through In Vitro And In Vivo Assessments, Samar A. Salim

Nanotechnology Research Centre

Cucurbita pepo leaf extract (CPE) was incorporated into electrospun poly(methyl methacrylate)/ halloysite/chitosan/ CaCO₃ (PMMA/Hal/CS/CaCO₃) composite nanofibers to develop a novel biomaterial for accelerating wound healing rates. The different nanofibrous scaffolds were successfully fabricated and characterized through scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), and X-ray diffraction (XRD). SEM analysis revealed uniform, smooth nanofibers, while FTIR and XRD confirmed the integration of CPE into nanofiber matrix, indicating an amorphous structure and effective dispersion of the extract. In vitro agar well-diffusion and antibiofilm assays revealed that the optimized formulation exhibited potent antimicrobial activity against wound-associated pathogens. The nanofibers composite based on …

Health Practices And Use Of Traditional Medicine Among Asian Indian Immigrants In The United States: A Pilot Study, Parita Patel, Anil N.F. Aranha

Medical Student Research Symposium

Title: Health Practices and Use of Traditional Medicine Among Asian Indian Immigrants in the United States: A Pilot Study

Authors

Parita Patel, MPH¹; Anil N.F. Aranha, PhD^1,2

Medical Education¹, Internal Medicine², Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, Michigan

Abstract

Background and Purpose: Traditional and alternative medicine (TAM), including Ayurveda, Homeopathy, Naturopathy, and home remedies, remains widely used among Asian Indian (AI) immigrants in the United States alongside Western medicine. Cultural familiarity, family influence, and perceived safety shape these practices. This pilot study examined TAM prevalence, patterns, and perceptions among AI immigrants and …

Exceptional Response Of Radiotherapy-Naïve Cranial Meningiomas To Dual Immune Checkpoint Blockade In Bap1 Tumor Predisposition Syndrome, Gary Gallia, Christine Hann, Calixto-Hope Lucas, Licia Pacheco Luna, David Kamson, Takami Sato

Department of Medical Oncology Faculty Papers

Meningiomas are the most common primary central nervous system tumors, and while most are benign, atypical and anaplastic variants frequently recur and have limited effective treatment options. Recent trials of PD-1 blockade in unselected meningioma cohorts have demonstrated modest activity, with low objective response rates. These findings highlight the need to identify molecular biomarkers that may predict immunotherapy sensitivity in this disease. BRCA1-associated protein 1 (BAP1) is a tumor suppressor critical for chromatin regulation and DNA repair, and germline pathogenic variants cause BAP1 tumor predisposition syndrome (BAP1-TPDS), a hereditary cancer syndrome characterized by uveal melanoma, mesothelioma, renal cell carcinoma, meningioma, …

Symmetrical Drug-Related Intertriginous And Flexural Exanthema Associated With Tirzepatide, William Goodman, Karan Pandher, Mahaa Ayub

Department of Dermatology and Cutaneous Biology Faculty Papers

No abstract provided.

Dna Strand Breaks By Small Molecules: From Genomic Hazard To Therapeutic Strategy, Clerin John

Honors Scholar Theses

DNA strand breaks are among the most critical forms of genomic damage, arising from endogenous metabolic activity, environmental stress, radiation, and diverse chemical agents. Single-strand breaks and double-strand breaks contribute to genome instability, mutagenesis, carcinogenesis, and neurodegenerative disorders. Cells rely on DNA repair pathways to detect these breaks and initiate repair. In this review, we conducted a comprehensive literature review to systematically compile and examine the mechanisms underlying small-molecule-induced DNA strand breaks. This review highlights the underlying mechanisms by which these molecules interact with DNA and trigger damage. We further discussed the current methods used for detection and quantification of …

Quality Improvement (Qi) Project Aimed At Reducing Unnecessary Antibiotic Usage Among Older Adult Patients By Addressing Inappropriate Antibiotic Prescribing In Primary And Long-Term Care Settings, Pamela M. Thomas

Seton Hall University Dissertations and Theses (ETDs)

Antibiotic overuse among older adults remains a significant patient safety and public health concern. Recent national data indicate that approximately 30%–50% of outpatient antibiotic prescriptions may be unnecessary, particularly for viral or self-limiting conditions (Chua et al., 2021). Antimicrobial resistance has been associated with more than 1.27 million deaths globally (Murray et al., 2022). This quality improvement project evaluated a multifaceted antimicrobial stewardship intervention in primary and long-term care settings. Baseline review of 167 antibiotic cases revealed 37.1% were inappropriate or questionable, and 28.7% lacked adequate diagnostic documentation. The intervention incorporated provider education, electronic health record decision-support tools, audit and …

Redefining Skincare For Sensitive Lives, Ashlyn G. Sierra Ms

Honors College Theses

This study outlines how a skincare company that is both ethically and effectively developed for people suffering from eczema could create accessible, affordable products as well as maintain its commitment to being inclusive. The study uses scientific data regarding eczema in order to examine why certain aspects of skin care are helpful or dangerous when it comes to individuals who suffer from eczema, in addition, it provides an assessment of current skin care product offerings that are designed for people with eczema. Using the Wise Leadership Framework, the study presents a hypothetical business plan for a new, eczema-based skin care …

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. …

Quantifying Black Carbon Concentrations In Georgia And Analyzing Associated Public Health Risks, Khloe R. Osborne

Honors Theses

Quantifying Black Carbon Concentrations in Georgia and Analyzing Associated Public Health Risks

One of the most daunting challenges of the industrial world is air pollution. Within this broad spectrum, there is an inhalable particle group named PM2.5, which contains black carbon. Black carbon has evidence that supports the generation and worsening of adverse health impacts, which may include birth complications, cognitive deficits in children, pulmonary aggravation, asthma, cardiovascular issues, neurological degenerative patterns, and cancer risk. This is especially seen in vulnerable populations, like children, elderly, and those who already suffer from weakened health, many of which reside in the southern …

The Influence Of Fermentation Duration And Secondary Fermentation Conditions On The Bioactive Compound Profile Of Kombucha, Jordan Vereen

Honors Theses

Kombucha is a fermented sweet tea produced using a symbiotic culture of bacteria and yeast (SCOBY) and has gained widespread popularity due to its proposed health benefits. Kombucha has been studied to understand these advantages in cardiovascular support, improved metabolism, increased antioxidant effects, enhanced antimicrobial properties, and even potentially slowing the progression of certain diseases. Despite its increasing popularity, the way in which the specific bioactive compounds responsible for these effects and the fermentation conditions that influence their production remain unclear. The present study, conducted in collaboration with Dr. Budner, focuses on quantifying bioactive compounds in kombucha to better understand …

Neuroprotective Effects Of Estradiol And Genistein And Interactions With Aromatase Inhibitions Post Cerebellar Lesion In Male Zebra Finches, Grace E. Thompson, Anthony P. Irovic

Honors Theses

Across vertebrates, peripheral and brain-derived estradiol (E₂) promotes neuroplasticity. After injury, E₂ can be derived locally from testosterone via aromatase (AROM), an enzyme that is upregulated in glia at the site of neural injury. E₂disrupts testicular function and elevates cancer and stroke risk, primarily via binding to estrogen receptor alpha (ER α). Genistein (GEN), a phytoestrogen, is similar to E₂ but binds preferentially to estrogen receptor beta (ER β). It may offer neuroprotection without adverse effects of E₂. We used adult male zebra finches (ZF) to model neuroprotective effects of E_{2 …}

In Patients With Acne Vulgaris, How Do Standard Acne Treatments Combined With Adjunct Microbiome-Targeted Therapies Compare To Standard Acne Treatments Alone In Affecting Clinical Outcomes?, Sree Gowri Sudharshan

Rowan-Virtua Research Day

Background: Acne vulgaris is a very common chronic skin condition that occurs when hair follicles become clogged with oil, dead skin cells, and bacteria. Nearly 50 million Americans are affected annually, and it usually occurs around puberty. Due to rising antibiotic resistance and unwanted side effects to current mediations, emerging research on the role of skin and gut microbiome in acne development is of interest.

Hypothesis: Adjuvant microbiome-targeted therapies may offer better clinical outcomes than standard acne treatments alone.

Methods: Literature search performed in PubMed and Embase using keywords related to acne vulgaris, microbiome-targeted therapies, and targeted acne treatments. Of …

Resensitization Of Clinical Isolates Of Mdr-Acinetobacter Baumannii To Antibiotics Using Bacteriophage Therapy, Priyal Gajera, Valerie J. Carabetta

Rowan-Virtua Research Day

Introduction:

Antibiotic resistance poses a major global health threat, particularly with multidrug-resistant (MDR) pathogens such as Acinetobacter baumannii, which exhibits resistance to multiple antibiotic classes, including carbapenems.¹ As conventional treatments become less effective, alternative therapies such as bacteriophage therapy are gaining attention. Bacteriophages offer targeted antibacterial activity and may enhance antibiotic efficacy or resensitize resistant strains. This study investigates the synergistic effects of bacteriophage ΦCO03 combined with antibiotics against MDR A. baumannii.

Methods:

Clinical isolates (M20, M5) of A. baumannii were cultured in LB broth at 37°C. Bacteriophage ΦCO03 was isolated and purified using plaque assays. Synergy between phage …

Atomoxetine Enhances Specific Dimensions Of Cognitive Performance In A Rodent Strategy Shifting Assay, Jessica Ivanov

Rowan-Virtua Research Day

Title: Atomoxetine enhances specific dimensions of cognitive performance in a rodent strategy shifting assay

Authors: Jessica Ivanov, Christopher P. Knapp, Barry D. Waterhouse, Rachel L. Navarra

Objective: Cognitive flexibility, a domain of executive function, supports adaptive shifts in behavior in response to changing environmental demands and task contingencies. Deficits in this capacity are common to neuropsychiatric disorders such as Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), where improper regulation of the catecholamine transmitters dopamine (DA) and norepinephrine (NE) within the prefrontal cortex (PFC) has been implicated. Atomoxetine (ATX), a selective NE transporter (NET) inhibitor, elevates levels of NE and DA in the …

Assessing Risk Of Modern Energy Product Consumption Among Adolescents And Young Adults, Darshak Rana, Jeffery C. Powers

Rowan-Virtua Research Day

Background: Caffeine consumption among adolescents and young adults has increased significantly with the popularity of energy drinks, pre-workout supplements, and high-caffeine beverages. Excessive intake is associated with cardiovascular risk, yet awareness of safe limits remains low. This study evaluated caffeine use patterns, knowledge of guidelines, and self-reported cardiovascular effects among youth.

Methods: A cross-sectional survey was administered to individuals aged 15–25 years (n=27) in clinical settings. Respondents reported frequency of caffeine intake, product types consumed, knowledge of recommended daily limits, and cardiovascular symptoms experienced while caffeinated.

Results: Most participants (70%) consumed caffeine regularly, with coffee, soda, and energy drinks as …

When Flashbacks Don’T Return: Lasting Ptsd Remission After Utilization Of Alpha-1 Adrenergic Antagonists, Priyal Pritesh Shah, Tara Young, Danah Atassi, Afshan Khan, Christie Richardson, Martin Forsberg

Rowan-Virtua Research Day

Introduction

Research has indicated that potentially 90% of older adults have undergone at least one potentially traumatic event in their lifetime. Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a psychiatric illness that follows a traumatic life event where the person is exposed to death, threatened death, actual or threatened serious injury, or actual/threatened sexual violence. This event triggers symptoms including flashbacks, recurrent nightmares, hypervigilance, dissociative reactions, and physiologic reactions to traumatic cues. Some recent reports in PTSD treatment have indicated the potential for the use of centrally-acting alpha-1 antagonists, such as prazosin and doxazosin, as effective treatments for PTSD-associated flashbacks and nightmares. …

Resensitization Of Clinical Isolates Of Mdr-Acinetobacter Baumannii To Antibiotics Using Bacteriophage Therapy, Zainab Mubasher, Valerie J. Carabetta

Rowan-Virtua Research Day

Acinetobacter baumannii is a Gram-negative, opportunistic pathogen notorious for causing severe infections in immunocompromised patients, particularly those with prolonged hospitalizations or invasive procedures1. Originally susceptible to many antibiotics in the 1970s, this bacterium has since evolved extensive resistance, making it one of the most challenging members of the ESKAPE group of multidrug-resistant (MDR) pathogens2. Its ability to survive in harsh environments and acquire resistance determinants has led to its classification as a “red alert” pathogen by health authorities worldwide. The increasing prevalence of MDR A. baumannii infections in healthcare settings underscores an urgent need for alternative treatment strategies as conventional …

Anticholinergic Toxicity Presenting As Acute Stroke Mimic: A Case Report, Dean Austin Esma, Kelsey Murray, James Espinosa, Alan Lucerna

Rowan-Virtua Research Day

Anticholinergic toxicity classically presents with a constellation of peripheral and central symptoms including tachycardia, mydriasis, dry skin, urinary retention, and altered mental status. However, central anticholinergic effects can predominate, presenting as isolated delirium without peripheral manifestations. This report presents a case of a 57-year-old woman who developed acute altered mental status and aphasia following cumulative anticholinergic exposure from over-the-counter cold medications, initially triggering a stroke alert

The Use Of Prazosin In Individuals With Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder: A Scoping Review Protocol, Priyal Pritesh Shah, Marisa Riebesell, Afshan Khan, Amanda M. Carey, Emily Balog, Martin Forsberg

Rowan-Virtua Research Day

Background: Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is a prevalent and debilitating condition, and is most often associated with sleep disturbances such as nightmares, flashbacks, and heightened arousal. Prazosin, an alpha-1 adrenergic antagonist, has been widely used for PTSD symptoms, however findings across studies are variable and limited, and the scope of existing evidence is not well established.

Objective: This scoping review aims to systematically map the literature on the use of prazosin in individuals with PTSD across diverse populations, settings, and study designs.

Methods: The scoping review will be conducted in accordance with JBI methodology and reported following PRISMA-ScR guidelines. A …

Sex Differences In Insulin Resistance And Triglyceride/Hdl-Cholesterol Ratio In Human Subjects, Jiyoon Jung, Lakshman Segar, Christine Whitehair, James Bailey, Ashley Coleman, George Scott

Rowan-Virtua Research Day

Background: Insulin resistance (IR) plays a major role in dyslipidemia and the associated cardiovascular disease risk. To date, it remains unclear as to how IR alters plasma lipid profile in males versus females. The present study is an initial step to determine sex-specific differences in IR and plasma lipid profile using 40 μL of capillary blood. Methods: 19 adults aged 30-64 were recruited from Rowan Medicine-Sewell clinics, with 13 participants (9 males, 4 females) consenting to the study. After collecting 40 μL of capillary blood via finger prick, the samples were analyzed for glucose, triglyceride (TG), and HDL-cholesterol (HDL-C) using …