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Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a group of lung diseases. Gross and microscopic evaluation of an 80 y.o. male cadaver showed that the left lung had dilated air spaces and showed notable alveolar wall destruction and dilated airspaces. The right lung was dense and firm, containing macrophages laden with anthracotic pigment and alveoli filled with red blood cells and fibrin. Anthracotic pigment in the lungs indicates long-term exposure to airborne pollutants (e.g. smoke, dust). This profile is aligned with the typical presentation of COPD and demonstrates the risk of comorbid infection with the presence of an organizing pneumonia.
This study examines the impact of macroeconomic factors on market equity performance using U.S. value-weighted capital data. By merging and resampling datasets to a monthly frequency, we analyze statistical trends and visualize key relationships. Regression models assess how macroeconomic indicators, like short-term interest rates, influence market equity. The findings enhance understanding of factor-based investing and macroeconomic effects on financial markets, offering insights for investors and policymakers.
Cadaveric dissection was completed on a 62-year-old female with acute myeloid leukemia (AML) and pancytopenia. The liver and spleen were enlarged; samples taken for histological processing and staining revealed infiltration of numerous abnormal leukemic cells. Due to the aggressive nature of AML and high risk of relapse, post-remission therapies (chemotherapy or bone marrow transplantation) are used to eliminate residual malignant cells. However, since these therapies may not be viable options for older patients, our discussion highlights alternative therapies targeting isocitrate dehydrogenase (IDH) mutations, commonly seen in AML, and their use in older adults to prevent relapse after initial induction therapy.
Over the past few decades in the US, opioids, despite their limited effectiveness for long-term pain management and addictive nature, were commonly prescribed for acute and chronic non-cancer pain. This has contributed to a significant public health crisis in which overdose deaths have surged. The current study analyzed National Ambulatory Medical Care Survey (NAMCS) data from 2010-2019 to assess the association between chronic pain diagnoses and visits with an opioid, while also considering factors like visit demographics and characteristics. Chronic pain visits had higher odds of receiving opioids, suggesting opioid use from 2010-2019 contradicted current guidelines, emphasizing the guidelines’ importance.
I am a second-year PA student in Campbell’s dual Master of Clinical Research and Master of Physician Assistant Practice program. Our research examines opioid prescribing trends for chronic pain using National Ambulatory Medical Care Survey (NAMCS) data from 2010-2019. I am passionate... Read More →
Research suggests mental health challenges escalated during the COVID-19 pandemic, posing historic public health concerns. This study evaluated the pandemic’s impact on anxiety and depression among U.S. adults from 2019 through 2022 via the National Health Interview Survey. Understanding the prevalence and factors influencing these conditions is essential to address resource allocation, treatment strategies, and preventive interventions. Suitable for clinicians, researchers, and policymakers.
The Johnston County Health Department has the highest number of permitted Mobile Food Units (MFUs) across all North Carolina counties. Despite this, less than 2% of MFUs undergo the three yearly required food safety and health inspections due to key challenges of MFU mobility outside of county lines and communication barriers. This project will explore these challenges through analysis of phone-based surveys and propose strategies to improve the Johnston County Health Department’s permit application process and knowledge of MFU operational patterns.
Case: Gallstones were discovered during dissection of a 104-year-old female whose cause of death was kidney failure. Additionally, white chalky deposits were present in peri-pancreatic fat, suggestive of fat necrosis and saponification seen in cases of pancreatitis. Photographs and samples of the lesions were collected and histologic processing was performed. Findings: The gallstones were consistent with cholesterol stones, and although a common sequela of gallstones, there was no evidence of pancreatitis microscopically. Discussion: Surgery is the primary treatment for gallstones; however, when nonsurgical options warrant consideration, such as in elderly patients, osteopathic manipulative treatment may improve symptoms and relieve pain.
For centuries, plants have played a vital role in medicinal practices. Flavonoids, polyphenols, and anthocyanins found in plants provide important antioxidant benefits. Aristotelia chilensis (Maqui) and Berberis microphylla (Calafate) are a tree and an evergreen shrub native to the temperate rainforests of Chile and southern Argentina and are both recognized for their antioxidant-rich berries. Neuroblastoma (NB) is a tumor of the peripheral nervous system and is the most common cancer and extracranial solid tumor in infants. N18TG2 is an established mouse NB cell line. We hypothesize that Maqui leaves extract and Calafate berry extracts exert anti-proliferative effects on N18TG2 cells.
This study examined fibromyalgia diagnosis trends and associated comorbidities using NAMCS data from 2010-2019, evaluating changes as the American College of Rheumatology's criteria evolved from 1990 to 2016. FM diagnosis increased after the 2010 criteria but decreased significantly following the 2016 revisions. Rheumatoid arthritis (OR 5.51, 95% CI 2.87-10.58) and depression (OR 2.61, 95% CI 1.90-3.58) were strongly associated with fibromyalgia diagnosis, while other comorbidities had minimal associations. The fluctuation in diagnosis post-2016 criteria suggests current criteria may not accurately capture fibromyalgia's complexity, highlighting rheumatoid arthritis and depression as key comorbidities in fibromyalgia diagnosis.
Metoprolol succinate, a commonly prescribed beta blocker for heart failure, can cause underrecognized central nervous system (CNS) effects such as hallucinations, delirium, and sleep disturbances. The likelihood of these effects depends on the drug's lipophilicity. We report a heart failure patient who developed new-onset visual hallucinations after starting metoprolol succinate. Once the association between beta blockers induced hallucinations was recognized, metoprolol was discontinued leading to resolution of symptoms. This case highlights the importance of recognizing this potential adverse effect of beta blocker induced hallucinations, as well as understanding the differences among agents within this drug class.
Cadaveric dissection of an 84-year-old woman with history of hypertension revealed intracranial hemorrhage located in the left brain parenchyma, left lateral ventricle, and subarachnoid space of the left parieto-occipital convexity. Microscopic examination of the brain showed no evidence of cerebral amyloid angiopathy and the bleed likely resulted from chronic hypertension. Most likely the hemorrhage originated deep in the left brain and extended to the left lateral ventricle and left parieto-occipital convexity.
Cadaveric dissection of a 59-year-old male revealed adenocarcinoma of the lower lobe of the right lung with right adrenal and right rib metastases. Lung cancer is categorized as either small cell or non-small cell. Adenocarcinoma is the most common subtype of non-small cell lung cancer. Lung adenocarcinoma frequently metastasizes to hilar and mediastinal lymph nodes, adrenal glands, brain, bone, and liver. Early detection of lung cancer is difficult, and the United States Preventive Services Task Force recommends annual screenings using low-dose computed tomography for high-risk individuals.
Breast cancer poses a major challenge due to the potential for metastasis to distant organs. This project examined a case of breast cancer in a 92-year-old female decedent, with metastatic lesions to the liver. Liver metastases, observed during cadaveric dissection, were confirmed through gross examination and histopathological analysis. Despite its relatively lower incidence, liver metastasis in breast cancer patients significantly worsens prognosis. These findings highlight the complex interplay of genetic and environmental factors in the disease's pathogenesis. We additionally underscore the importance of early detection and review the common sites of metastasis originating from primary breast tumors.
Fibromyalgia is a chronic, widespread pain condition affecting the musculoskeletal system, often accompanied by tiredness, decreased mood, and somatic dysfunction. This report aims to: (1) evaluate perineural therapy as a treatment for fibromyalgia, and (2) observe patient outcomes using an osteopathic approach including acupuncture and Osteopathic Manipulative Treatment (OMT). This case highlights a 63-year-old female with fibromyalgia treated with acupuncture, OMT, and perineural therapy (PNT). This report demonstrates the benefits of combining perineural therapy with other osteopathic techniques and treatment modalities. Further studies could evaluate the standalone effectiveness of perineural therapy.
Thyroid nodules are prevalent in the general population and require a systematic approach of evaluation and management. This case focuses on the cadaveric dissection of a 91-year-old female revealing three benign thyroid nodules. Risk factors for the development of thyroid nodules include various lifestyle and environmental factors. Assessment begins with history and physical examination, lab studies, and high-resolution ultrasound. Select individuals with suspected malignancy may undergo additional evaluation via fine-needle aspiration biopsy. Management strategies balance between invasive and non-invasive options. Understanding the etiology, susceptibility, and appropriate interventions ensures optimized care for patients with thyroid nodules.
Solar power-based energy, in recent years, has become extremely popular as a source of renewable energy. Despite current research and popularity of solar panels, the cells within each panel can only reach a certain amount of efficiency due to the environment they are placed into and technological limitations. One way of increasing the efficiency of solar panels is to make use of mirrors since they reflect more light onto the cells. This study aims to confirm this theory and discuss how concentrated light on photovoltaic cells is important in moving towards a sustainable future.
It is estimated that approximately 25% of women experience symptoms associated with the female reproductive system, including abnormal uterine bleeding, decreased fertility, and pain. These symptoms have many possible etiologies, including leiomyomas, also known as uterine fibroids, which are benign tumors arising from the uterine smooth muscle and connective tissue. Detection and treatment of uterine fibroids can be beneficial for symptom reduction and improved obstetric outcomes. This work highlights a pedunculated subserosal fibroid in a 71-year-old Caucasian woman and explores current screening and diagnostic tools and treatment options. Given the variability in patient age and symptoms at presentation, we will explore how treatment strategies can be individualized to best fit patient needs.
Econometric methods are employed to analyze patterns and relationships in crop insurance data. The existence of these relationships paint a more clear picture of how farmers analyze and protect themselves against perceived risks.
Significant challenges exist related to women’s health during childbirth, including complications from pain management, emergency cesarean births due to complications, and effects of coexisting conditions. A literature search was conducted based on the PICO question, “If pregnant women add moderate exercise into their daily life, what impact does it have on the reduction of birth complications as compared to a lack of moderate daily exercise?” Overall, results show implementing a daily, moderate exercise program is beneficial for reducing labor complications in healthy women. Future research should focus on the effect of exercise during pregnancy in women with existing health conditions.
This cadaveric case study examines an 84-year-old female with a brain mass identified as a primary central nervous system lymphoma (PCNSL), discussing its epidemiology, clinical presentation, diagnosis, and treatment. PCNSL is a rare, aggressive lymphoma that primarily affects immunocompromised individuals, the elderly, and males. Diagnosis involves MRI or CT imaging, tumor biopsy, and lumbar puncture. Symptoms include cognitive changes, seizures, incoordination, headaches, papilledema, weight loss, and fever. While the etiology remains unclear, preventive measures include a healthy lifestyle, regular check-ups, and managing immunosuppressive therapy. Raising awareness of at-risk populations can help improve early diagnosis and intervention.
Within various healthcare environments worldwide, healthcare personnel and patients alike are often surprised by the prevalence of violent encounters. Healthcare organizations would seldom choose to be defined as facilities that are unsafe to care for their patients. Government data shows healthcare personnel account for 73% of violent related injuries that require time off to recover. It is important to recognize warning signs and provide support to organizations that appeal to lawmakers on behalf of healthcare workers. In understanding the repercussions of workplace violence, healthcare systems must implement effective changes to the training programs that are provided to their employees.
Mental health services must improve. A New Jersey law increased psychiatric involuntary commitment in emergency departments, delaying transfer to a psychiatric facility. Although this law was created with positive intent, it does not address the root issue: the inability of people to find adequate psychiatric care in their communities. Emergency department directors, staff, and patients agree that the emergency department lacks resources to provide specialized treatment for this population. Patients with longer stays are at greater risk for complications. The state should focus on increasing community funding to provide preventive care, psychiatric walk-in clinics, employment, and transportation.
This study sought to assess the relationship between receiving education (on diabetes, exercise, weight reduction, diet/nutrition) and patient characteristics among adults with Type II Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM). This was a retrospective, cross-sectional study using data from the National Ambulatory Medical Care Survey (2012-2019). Multivariable logistic regression models were constructed to evaluate available predictors of interest on each type of education received. No racial/ethnic disparities were identified. Disparities in patient education for rural areas, visits to a specialist, and smokers highlight the necessity of targeted interventions to improve education access. The poster will provide complete study findings, conclusions and a discussion.
Students used an amateur casing setup to produce 713 aluminum from scrap metal. This was then analyzed to relate the metal to commercially produced material.
Substance Use Disorder is a chronic condition affecting 10% of the population. Harnett Health Family Medicine Residency identified high screening rates for alcohol and tobacco, but low rates for non-medical prescription drug use and illicit drug use, highlighting the need for standardized screening. The NIDA Quick Screen was chosen for its simplicity and was administered during annual exams. Screening rates improved significantly for non-medical prescription drug use (p=0.02) and illicit drug use (p=0.007). Barriers included inconsistent use and lack of EMR integration. Future efforts will focus on this as well as expanding screening to adolescents and improving treatment follow-up.
Healthcare in America is experiencing its own form of climate change. The arrival of the “silver tsunami” poses a challenge to how we will care for senior adults. Medicare instituted the Annual Wellness Visit (AWV) to improve healthy aging among all seniors. Despite its promise for increasing preventive health services, uptake of AWVs has been low for a variety of reasons. This QI project showed that AWV completion rates increased with a variety of interventions based on outreach, education, EMR implementation, and team-based care. These results have significance on several different levels, mainly infrastructure, personal accountability, and economics.
This project tested a hypothesis for a novel cause of bipolar disorder involving changes in levels of brain cholesterol. Mice were treated daily for 7 days with a vehicle (as a control) or a combination of 2 drugs at two different doses. These treatments were hypothesized to reduce brain cholesterol. At the end of the treatment, mice were tested for signs of depression using the spontaneous activity test, change in body weight and the forced swim test. Final results indicated that the only significant effect of either treatment with either dose was that drug-treated mice gained less weight than controls.
A nut from the wheel assembly of a rollercoaster at Kings Dominion was investigated using microscopy and chemical spectroscopy to identify its microstructure and engineering properties, which were then related to its processing.
Green chemical reactions use safer and less toxic reagents compared to traditional reaction conditions, which may involve harsh and hazardous compounds. A Wittig reaction using green reaction conditions was introduced into the organic chemistry labs at Campbell University in 2018. The synthesis resulted in a method that was safer but produced low yields and impure product. This work focuses on improving yields and purity via optimization of reaction time, temperature, concentrations, and other variables including workup modifications. Recrystallization trials with alternative solvents have shown increased yields. These improvements and other progress towards yield and purity improvements will be reported.
A tablet that effectively combines immediate and modified-release properties will be developed by compressing the tablet with a hollow core, applying an enteric coating, and filling the core with concentrated drug granules. Acetaminophen will be used as a model drug. The thickness, hardness, friability, and disintegration tests will be performed on the tablets. Key manufacturing parameters, including formulation matrix, choice of excipients, and coating will be optimized to achieve the desired release profile. A design of experiment (DoE) approach will be implemented via to systematically evaluate and refine these parameters, ensuring the effective release and stability of the formulation.
Physician-assisted suicide or physician-assisted death (PAD) occurs when a healthcare professional aids in providing lethal medication to a patient with a terminal illness. Healthcare policy plays a vital role in shaping protocols related to this issue. North Carolina is 1 of 4 states that has no specific laws or policies regarding physician-assisted death. Whether or not policymakers believe physician-assisted suicide should be legal, there should be clear legislation to determine a physician's role in PAD to eliminate confusion for the physician and patient. Physician-assisted suicide is an ethical issue that requires legislation for the safety and legal practice of physicians.
Montelukast, approved by the FDA in 1998, is a widely prescribed leukotriene receptor antagonist for asthma, exercise-induced bronchoconstriction, and allergic rhinitis. Concerns about its neuropsychiatric side effects prompted several FDA labeling updates, including an update to the patient and prescribing information to include several post-marketing adverse events including depression, suicidality, and anxiety in 2007, an update to the “precautions” of drug’s prescribing information in 2009, ultimately a Black Box Warning in 2020. This study aimed to analyze prescribing trends of montelukast before and after FDA safety warnings using data from the National Ambulatory Medical Care Survey (NAMCS) for 2003–2019.
This observational, retrospective, cross-sectional study included outpatient visits for patients aged two years and older with respiratory complaints. This study was deemed not human subject research by the Campbell University Institutional Review Board due to the nature of the publicly available de-identified database. The primary outcome was the proportion of visits with montelukast. The primary predictor compared two periods: 2003–2007 (pre-warning) and 2008–2019 (post-warning). Secondary and tertiary analyses assessed prescribing trends and the association of demographic and clinical factors available in the dataset with montelukast use. Statistical methods included a plot of the proportion of visits with montelukast by year and a multivariable logistic regression model (MLRM).
Findings showed a slight decline in montelukast prescribing, from 5.3% of visits in 2003–2007 to 4.4% in 2008–2019 (OR 0.89, 95% CI 0.70–1.14, from the MLRM after adjusting for covariates). The plot of the annual proportion of visits with montelukast revealed a slight decline in prescribing over time, with a significant drop in prescribing after 2007, coinciding with updated FDA safety information. The MLRM provided no evidence of significant predictors or the identification of disparities between groups/levels of demographic variables.
The findings suggest that FDA safety communications and the introduction of alternative therapies may have influenced prescribing practices.
The issue of sentencing disparities, especially the influence of race and gender on sentence outcomes, has become a contentious issue within the criminal justice system. In fact, these disparities date back as far as the Jim Crow era, which can be argued is the root of these problems. In modern sentencing practices, racial and gender disparities persist despite these laws being abolished. In comparison to white individuals, African American and Hispanic individuals continue to suffer disproportionately severe punishments. I will examine how race and gender shape judicial decisions and their broader implications for fairness and justice in the legal system as part of my research into ongoing disparities in sentencing.
The study aims to express and purify the receptor-binding domain (RBD) of the SARS-CoV-2 spike (S) protein using recombinant protein techniques and evaluate its binding affinity to the human ACE2 receptor. HEK293T cells were transfected with two plasmids: one expressed RBD fused with a His-tag allowing protein purification via immobilized metal affinity chromatography (IMAC) and the other expressed RBD fused with an sfGFP-tag allowing fluorescence detection of protein expression. Purification of the recombinant His-tagged RDB and sfGFP-tagged RBD protein products using IMAC, Hydrophobic interaction chromatography (HIC) and Ion exchange chromatography is ongoing. BCA protein assay, SDS-PAGE, Western blotting, and ELISA will be performed to assess expression yield, purity, and binding interactions. The research enhances understanding of the effects of two common tags on SARS-CoV-2 RBD dynamics and their potential applications in diagnostics, therapeutics, and vaccine development against COVID-19.
This poster is based on a longitudinal study that has been going on 8+ years on the Campbell University Division I Women’s Lacrosse. We have been able to use physiological & psychological data to see what affects performance and how training affects the athletes. Global positioning system (GPS) units are worn during practice and athletes completed out daily wellness scores via Metrifit app that measured mood, sleep, energy/fatigue, stress, and muscle soreness. In the future we will continue Metrifit survey data, add Athletic Sleep Screening Questionnaire (ASSQ), and create a questionnaire to learn more about the sleep hygiene of the lacrosse players.
My study examined the differences in socio emotional health between two schools, one in a high income area and one in a low income area. The study found that students report being happier in the higher income school. Students in the low income school were more likely to rate their social health as a 0, the lowest score that they were able to give. Whereas at the higher income schools I only had 1 or 2 students report a 0. Overall, my study shows that students who live in low income areas struggle more in school than those in a higher income area.
Oxidative stress plays a crucial role in Alzheimer’s disease (AD) pathology. This study explores the potential of targeting the Keap1-Nrf2 pathway as a therapeutic approach. Keap1 negatively regulates Nrf2, a key antioxidant defense mechanism. Using molecular modeling and virtual screening, we identified and modified compounds such as Andrographolide, Farrerol, and Curcumin analogs to enhance their binding affinity to Keap1. By disrupting Keap1-Nrf2 interaction, these compounds could activate Nrf2, reducing oxidative damage and neuroinflammation. Our findings highlight promising drug candidates for AD treatment, with improved binding affinity and potential blood-brain barrier penetration.
Different alcohol substrates have been tested for a pedagogical multistep synthesis involving alcohol bromination followed by Williamson ether synthesis (WES). The bromination of 1-phenylethanol and 2-phenylethanol was partially optimized according to temperature and acid equivalents, where the former was produced in high yields and conversions. WES trials resulted in a mixture of target ether and styrene that could be quantified by GC. Bromination of 4-biphenylmethanol was optimized according to acid equivalents, temperature, and time, producing a solid alkyl bromide with good yields and high conversions. Both target ethers were formed in WES trials using both MeOH and EtOH.
A 33-year-old male with a past medical history of a traumatic brain injury (TBI) secondary to a fall 8 years prior, attended the Campbell Community Wellness Clinic for physical therapy services. Upon evaluation, impairments in ankle mobility were hypothesized to impacted running speed and distance. Pre-intervention, the patient was able to run 0.4 miles at 4.14 mph. Interventions during an 8-week program consisted of therapeutic exercise, taping, and manual therapy to improve ankle range of motion. The patient’s time, distance and speed varied from week to week proving no correlation in interventions and running outcomes this patient.
With an increasing number of women living past menopause, there is a need for research regarding the management of menopausal syndrome. Particularly, there is a need for research regarding the treatment of pain in postmenopausal women. The case described in this report follows a 52-year-old caucasian female who initially presented on February 7th, 2023 with one month of right sided sacroiliac joint pain. An extensive workup did not reveal a clear etiology of pain. Between her initial visit on day 0 and her most recent follow-up on day 435, she was treated with osteopathic manipulative treatment (OMT) on four occasions for various lumbar, sacral, and pelvic somatic dysfunctions. In addition to OMT, the patient was treated with stretches, tizanidine, naproxen, venlafaxine, a right hip injection, and estradiol. Notably, the patient experienced complete pain relief within one week of starting estrogen replacement therapy. This case is unique to existing literature and suggests that estrogen replacement therapy may have a role in sacroiliac pain relief in postmenopausal women.
"Making Amends" is an original composition that blends emotive storytelling of musical theatre with a catchy pop melody. With a simple yet dynamic accompaniment, the song builds in intensity through intricate rhythms while mirroring the emotional depth of the lyrics. It tells the story of two siblings who have drifted apart over the years, with one reaching out in a vulnerable attempt to heal old wounds. The piece captures the tension, regret, and hope of reconciliation, offering a raw and relatable exploration of family, forgiveness, and the desire to rebuild lost connections.
