2026

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https://dspace.husson.edu/handle/20.500.14298/1056

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A BROWSER-EMBEDDED XR SIMULATION MODEL FOR EXPERIENTIAL ANIMAL BEHAVIOR TRAINING IN ONLINE STEM EDUCATION
(2026-04-16) Thiyagarajan, Tharun
This paper looks at a common issue in online education, where many courses still depend heavily on readings, slides, and recorded lectures. While these are useful for delivering content, they often do not give students enough opportunities to actively engage or learn through experience. This is especially noticeable in areas like animal behavior education, where students are expected to interpret subtle cues, understand context, and develop observational skills. In a fully online setting, access to real environments and live animals is limited, and repeated use of animals also raises safety and ethical concerns. To address this, the project presents a browser-based, XR-ready simulation designed specifically for online learning. The system allows students to explore a virtual veterinary clinic, interact with the environment, and switch between human and canine perspectives to better understand behavior. Since the simulation runs directly in a web browser, it does not require VR headsets or specialized hardware, making it easier to access across different devices. The design focuses on keeping the system lightweight and usable within typical online learning constraints. This includes managing performance in the browser, optimizing assets, and supporting interaction through standard input devices. The simulation can be used in both live sessions and self-paced learning environments. This work is presented as a design and implementation effort that explores how browser-based XR can be used to support more active learning in online STEM and STEAM education. A more structured evaluation of learning outcomes is planned as a next step.
A REVIEW, ANALYSIS, AND RESTRUCTURING OF THE HUSSON STOCK INDEX
(2026-04-16) Fraser, Henry; Liu, Jia
The Husson Stock Index (HSI), developed by Marie Kenney under the supervision of Associate Professor J. Douglas Wellington, aims to track the performance of the Maine Economy through the tracking of various publicly traded companies. These companies are either Maine-based or contribute significantly to the economy in Maine through revenue or employment. Since its introduction, numerous companies have been removed from the index, bringing the total down to 23. Additionally, there has not been a major statistical review of the tracking efforts of the index since its creation. This study aims to identify new companies to be added to the index, create a new weighting system that more accurately represents each company’s contribution to the state, and conduct a statistical review of past performance in relation to the Maine economy. The addition of four new companies and the reformatting of the index proves to be necessary to further the development of the index. The statistical review has shown that the HSI and other relevant large stock indexes are ineffective in tracking the real GDP growth of the Maine economy. Beyond laying the groundwork for future additions of companies and new weighting methods, we also seek to open a new path towards the creation of a tracker for the real GDP growth of the State.
ADHERENCE VARIANCE OF DIFFERING EXERCISE PROGRAMS FOR INDIVIDUALS WITH UPPER EXTREMITY TENDONITIS
(2026-04-16) Martel, Laura; Kelly, Cavenaugh
Upper extremity tendonitis is a broad and common diagnosis that may be improved by conservative treatment methods, such as rehabilitative exercise programs to reduce pain and improve function. Upper extremity exercise programs for tendonitis have been shown to enhance quality of life through improved pain experiences, physical functioning, and functionality of the affected limb. A key aspect of exercise interventions is a home exercise program (HEP), where patients are asked to do prescribed exercises outside the clinic. HEPs are becoming an increasingly prevalent delivery methodology for exercise programs due to the increasing cost of therapy and need for transportation to outpatient therapy services. Home exercise programs can be delivered in a variety of forms. Due to a multitude of factors, such as limited medical insight, forgetfulness, and limited social support, home exercise programs may result in a lack of adherence from clients that can lead to persistent pain and limited functionality. The aim of this research study is to determine the variance of adherence rates between three identified types of home exercise programs, written only, written with images, and individualized videos. In order to determine the variances between the three identified home exercise programs, a study is proposed to compare surveyed HEP patient compliance at an outpatient occupational and physical therapy clinic. The survey to be completed by patients is the Adherence to Exercise for Musculoskeletal Pain Tool (ATEMPT). The ATEMPT survey has demonstrated validity in assessing compliance behaviors, confidence to perform each exercise, and perceived difficulty of the exercises prescribed. Following the collection of data samples from participants, statistical analysis will compare the three established home exercise programs to determine which home exercise program provided the greatest adherence rates. Data from the analysis will then potentially drive future decisions and design of HEPs at the clinic to maximize patient participation and benefit.
AI CHATBOT FOR PUBLIC FACING BUSINESS WEBSITE
(2026-04-16) Shema, Norbert; Desjardins, Michael; Knupp, Michael
The ScoobySquad AI Agent is an intelligent customer support and workflow automation system designed to enhance the efficiency and scalability of a small service-based business specializing in pet waste removal. This capstone project integrates modern artificial intelligence techniques, including natural language processing and retrieval-augmented generation (RAG), to create a responsive chatbot capable of answering customer inquiries, guiding service requests, and supporting internal operations. The system is built using a combination of web-based technologies, a vector database for semantic search, and automation workflows powered by n8n to connect customer interactions with business logic. At its core, the AI agent leverages a structured knowledge base stored in a cloud database, where frequently asked questions and operational data are embedded into vector representations. When a user submits a question through the website chat interface, the system retrieves the most relevant information using similarity search and generates a context-aware response. This approach allows the AI agent to provide accurate, conversational answers while continuously improving as new data is added. Additionally, n8n enables seamless orchestration of backend processes, such as handling incoming requests, routing data between services, and supporting potential integrations like scheduling and customer management systems. The value of this project lies in its ability to demonstrate how advanced AI technologies can be applied to small, local businesses to improve customer experience and operational efficiency. By reducing the need for constant manual communication, the ScoobySquad AI Agent allows business owners to focus on service delivery while maintaining high-quality customer engagement. This project highlights the growing importance of AI-driven solutions in modern business environments and showcases a practical implementation of intelligent automation.
ALPHA-CHYMOTRYPSIN PROTEASE-CATALYZED PEPTIDE SYNTHESIS OF ALTERNATING ARGNINE-TRYPTOPHAN PEPTIDES AND THEIR ANTIMICROBIAL PROPERTIES
(2026-04-16) Lessa, Timothy; Edson, Cody
Antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) are an increasingly popular topic in research due to their effectiveness against drug-resistant bacteria and pathogens. These peptides target the cell membrane of the bacteria and that makes them very difficult for bacteria to build resistance to. Due to this, AMPs are being developed to help treat viral infections, aid in wound healing, act as a safe preservative for agriculture, and could be used to target cancer cells. The conventional synthesis methods for antimicrobial peptides however often involve harsh chemicals, large amounts of waste, and high costs. Therefore, to investigate more environmentally and economically favorable synthesis strategies for AMPs we used an alternative synthesis method in Protease-Catalyzed Peptide Synthesis (PCPS). PCPS is conducted using water as a solvent and is relatively cheaper, uses less toxic reagents, and utilizes renewable protease enzymes as catalysts. We specifically sought to form a repeating Arginine-Tryptophan amino acid sequence because of tryptophan’s ability to anchor to a cell wall and arginine’s ability to destroy it, making them a great antimicrobial agent. The protease enzyme I chose to investigate this synthesis with is Alpha-Chymotrypsin, because while it favors the hydrolysis of Tryptophan-Arginine amide bonds, we can target the reverse aminolysis reaction by using Arginine-Tryptophan dipeptide units which interact with the active sight of the enzyme differently and favor aminolysis over hydrolysis. We predict that the Alpha-Chymotrypsin will yield a bell-curve like distribution of alternating peptide chains ranging from 2-16 amino acids in length, which is the typical range of amino acid chain length for PCPS reactions. We will also conduct an antimicrobial assay to determine the oligopeptide’s effectiveness against gram + and gram -bacteria and determine the minimum inhibition concentration.
AN EXPLORATION OF POTENTIAL DISPARITIES IN PHYSICAL THERAPISTS’ DECISIONS BASED ON RACE AND ETHNICITY OF PATIENTS
(2026-04-16) Lovely, Ambrose; Osuna, Haesel; Wells, Cassandra; Siegel, Sondra
Background/Purpose: Research shows that health care providers exhibit evidence of implicit bias when treating non-white patients. Most existing evidence is concerned with medicine and nursing, while very few studies have been conducted on physical therapists (PTs). Thus, the purpose of this study was to explore the presence of racial or ethnic bias in PT decisions. Methods: A vignette-based survey was created and distributed via email to licensed PTs within the Husson University Clinical Instructor database. The vignette described a patient with shoulder pathology who was receiving care in an out-patient PT setting. Three versions of this vignette were used which were identical except for the patient’s name and an AI-generated image. The variations were intended to represent three distinct racial or ethnic identities, though these were not explicitly stated. One patient appeared to be white, while the other two appeared to be non-white minorities. Participants responded to questions regarding prognosis, plan of care, treatments, expected outcomes, and recommended referrals. Data were analyzed using Fisher’s Exact Test for frequency comparisons. Results: Thirty-eight out of 331 recipients completed the survey, yielding three groups of respondents based on the case each person received. Participants were primarily from the Northeastern region of the USA, with 92% identifying as white. The analysis revealed no statistically significant differences among the groups in all measures assessed. However, two interesting trends were noted. Minority patients were most associated with expectations of longer duration of care and were the least often referred to an orthopedic specialist after limited progress. Conclusion: In this survey, PTs displayed no disparities based on patient race or ethnicity when recommending treatment for shoulder pathology in an out-patient setting. This differs from a large body of literature showing disparities in other health care disciplines, but is mostly consistent with one other similar survey of PTs.
ANTIBACTERIAL EFFICACY AND SACCHARIDE COMPOSITION OF HONEY DETERMINED BY MICROBIAL ASSAYS AND GC-MS
(2026-04-16) Beaulieu, Sierra; Edson, Cody
Honey is a food product that has been used for centuries as a natural remedy. In light of growing concern regarding antibacterial resistance, honey has been investigated as an antibacterial agent. This presentation considered the efficacy of honey as an antibacterial agent and quantified biochemical properties that may allow honey to be used as an alternative therapy. To determine this, testing began by utilizing an agar disc diffusion method to determine how different types of honey inhibited the growth of bacteria, these included E. coli, P. aeruginosa, and B. subtilis. No significant differences were observed between the two honey types, where a raw honey product and a commercially available honey were each tested. Further analysis was conducted to determine a minimum inhibitory concentration of honey, where each honey type was diluted 10-fold in a 96-well plate containing an E. coli and B. subtilis culture. Further testing was performed to deduce what biochemical properties contribute to the antimicrobial characteristics of honey. A two-step derivatization process allowed gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) to be used as the main method to identify saccharides in honey samples by utilizing retention index values compared to a set standard. Further testing was performed to calculate the exact concentrations of fructose, glucose, and sucrose in each honey sample. Additional testing on the heavy metal contents of honey was also carried out as a means to further compare the raw and commercially available honeys, along with their antibacterial efficacy. Together, these methods help determine the value of honey as an alternative therapy. This presentation highlights the need for further research on alternative antibacterials and provides a foundation for methods and possible antimicrobial agents.
ARE YOU TIRED? TREATING FATIGUE WITH PAIN NEUORSCIENCE
(2026-04-16) Bromley, Kiara; Cote, Lindsay; Hohfelder, Ellie; Myles, Cameron; Williams, Lexi; Steinbarger, Kimberly
Background: Fatigue is a prevalent and debilitating symptom among individuals with chronic disease and is often resistant to conventional management strategies. Emerging evidence suggests that fatigue may share neurophysiological mechanisms with central sensitization and chronic pain. Pain neuroscience education (PNE), which targets central mechanisms through cognitive reframing and symptom reconceptualization, may represent a promising non-pharmacological intervention for centralized fatigue. Purpose: To determine whether an educational intervention grounded in pain neuroscience education and the concept of centralized fatigue can improve symptoms of fatigue and central sensitization in individuals with chronic disease. Methods: This prospective, single-group pre-post study was conducted over eight weeks. Participants completed baseline measures including the Chalder Fatigue Scale (CFS) and the Central Sensitization Inventory (CSI). Following baseline assessment, participants attended a one-hour virtual educational session addressing the neurophysiology of fatigue, central sensitization, and practical management strategies. Follow-up assessments were conducted at four weeks (qualitative check-in) and eight weeks (CFS and CSI re-administration). Repeated measures t-tests were used to compare baseline and eight-week scores. Results: Eight female participants completed the study. At eight weeks, there was a statistically significant reduction in CFS scores (p = 0.007) and CSI scores (p = 0.016). At four weeks, 44% of participants reported decreased fatigue, 33% reported no change, and 22% reported increased fatigue. Post hoc power analysis indicated low statistical power (0.09). Conclusion: Education based on pain neuroscience principles may reduce symptoms of fatigue and central sensitization in individuals with chronic disease. While findings are limited by small sample size and low power, results support further investigation of educational interventions as accessible, non-pharmacological strategies for managing centralized fatigue.
ASSESSING THE COMMUNITY MOBILITY NEEDS OF COMMUNITY DWELLING OLDER ADULTS
(2026-04-16) Beaulieu, Taylor; Munro, Katelyn; Richardson, Andrea; Salter, Hanah; Kelly, Cavenaugh
Community mobility is defined as the ability to navigate through the world safely and independently, which allows people to participate in daily life, stay connected, and get where they need to go. Community mobility enables individuals to access resources, participate in meaningful activities, maintain independence, and stay socially connected within their communities. Populations impacted by community mobility barriers include older adults, individuals with disabilities, people with chronic health conditions, and those living in rural or socioeconomically disadvantaged areas. Older adults, in particular, face multiple barriers to community access, including limited financial resources, inaccessible built environments, and insufficient transportation options. Age-related physical, sensory, and cognitive changes further complicate safe navigation and use of transportation. Rural isolation, long-traveled distances, and lack of nearby services intensify these challenges. Together, these barriers restrict participation in meaningful activities, increase dependence, and contribute to social isolation and poor health outcomes. There are multiple solutions to improve community mobility and reduce accessibility barriers. Telemedicine and mobile clinics are two key approaches to improving access to healthcare in rural areas. Skilled mobility device and balance training, patient-centered medical homes, and coordinated care, can also help to lower costs, and improve functional mobility. Additionally, supports for transportation, such as subsidized driving assistance, have been noted to enhance independent community participation and access. In this study of individuals in an elderly housing complex, community mobility barriers will be identified through the Occupational Therapy Checklist of Community Mobility Skills (CCMS) survey, and qualitative interviews, to examine issues regarding transportation access, financial limitations, physical mobility, safety concerns, and social supports. Data will then be used to target potential solutions, such as referral to local ride-share programs, travel buddy systems, Personal Support Specialists (PSS) for community tasks, increased access to telehealth, and student liaison assistance through a resource app to coordinate needs.
BENEFITS OF THERAPEUTIC LIES IN DEMENTIA CARE
(2026-04-16) Johnson, Jayda; Smith, Rachelle
Although deception in healthcare is generally considered to be unethical, therapeutic lies are often used in dementia care, creating a controversial ethical dilemma. Given the frequent use of therapeutic lying by nurses, family members, and other healthcare professionals, I conducted a literature review to investigate the possible benefits of therapeutic lies in dementia care. I hypothesized that patients with dementia would benefit from therapeutic lies, primarily because such lies would reduce their distress. Studies were collected from databases from the Husson University Library, including Academic Search Ultimate, and the National Institute of Health. Participants in the studies reviewed included healthcare workers, family caregivers, and dementia patients. Eighty-eight percent of the studies examined demonstrated clear benefits associated with therapeutic lies. Specifically, despite ethical concerns regarding deception, these lies were found to help decrease distress and lessen agitation for people with dementia. Although one study emphasized the negative impacts of lying to patients with dementia, all other evidence showed that when used appropriately, therapeutic lies provided more psychological and health benefits than telling the truth. The advantages of using therapeutic lies with people with dementia was found to be situation-dependent. Such lies only provided benefits when the patient was unaware of the deception and when honesty would exacerbate distress. These results provide healthcare workers with insight into caring for their patients by using therapeutic lies and highlight the importance of context to ensure ethical behavior. Future research is needed to compare the psychological outcomes between patients who are exposed to therapeutic lying with those who are only told the truth. Additionally, given the empirical benefits of the use of therapeutic lies, guidelines need to be developed to help ensure cohesive and ethical use.
BLOOD FLOW RESTRICTION TRAINING FOR CHRONIC QUADRICEPS ATROPHY AND WEAKNESS
(2026-04-16) Dick, Braden; Gravit, Tara; Hunter, Hayden; Proulx, Tyler; Scott, Wayne
Blood flow restriction training (BFRT) is an exercise modality that utilizes blood flow occlusion in the affected extremity during low-load training. Partially occluding blood flow leads to a hypoxemic state in the affected limb, resulting in build-up of anabolic metabolites, cellular swelling, and increased recruitment of fast-twitch muscle fibers. BFRT stresses muscles differently from typical high-load training. The purpose of this study was to determine if BFRT can reverse long-standing quadriceps atrophy and weakness in an individual following an ACL reconstruction and meniscus repair. A single subject with residual quadriceps atrophy, weakness, and functional impairment trained with BFRT for 8-weeks. The subject participated in two training sessions per week targeting the affected extremity, consisting of three quadriceps exercises at 80% occlusion following a 30, 15, 15, 15 repetition protocol. Outcome measures included thigh circumference and lower extremity strength, which were tested prior to, every 2 weeks during the intervention, and one-week post-training. Functional outcomes were assessed with video analysis of movement and the Knee Injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Scale (KOOS) at the start and end of the study. After the 8-week training period, a 1-week F/U was conducted to reassess the subjects' knee extensor strength (MVIC), thigh circumference, and KOOS. Thigh circumference decreased across measurement sites (involved limb: 45 to 43 cm at 5 cm superior to the top of patella and 53.5 to 50.5 cm 15 cm superior to the top of patella). Strength asymmetry declined from 69.8% to 49.8% of the uninvolved limb. KOOS improved from 81.55 to 88.10 with subscale increases in symptoms (57.14 to 67.86), sport/rec (70.00 to 90.00), and QoL (50 to 62.5). This study suggests that despite decreases in quadriceps strength and size, BFRT may improve functional outcomes.
CLINICAL MENTAL HEALTH COUNSELORS’ EXPERIENCES WITH MANDATED REPORTING OF CHILD ABUSE AND NEGLECT IN PENNSYLVANIA
(2026-04-16) Vermileon, Todd
Many phenomenological factors influence counselors when navigating mandated reporting and deciphering reasonable suspicion, such as beliefs, emotions, culture, decision-making, training opportunities, and past experiences (Levi & Crowell, 2011). The purpose of this qualitative study was to explore the experiences of clinical mental health counselors with mandated reporting of child abuse and neglect in Pennsylvania. A hermeneutic phenomenological approach was used to analyze the lived experiences of eight clinical mental health counselors. The hermeneutic circle guided data analysis in a parts-to-whole process, which enabled interpretations to transform into phenomenologically crafted texts (Gadamer, 1988, 2004; Heidegger, 1962). Findings revealed global themes among participants relating to the reporting process, decision-making factors, and preparation for the role of mandated reporter. The identification of global themes addressed the study’s research questions and gaps in the counseling field. Implications from the study will be used to inform counselors’ reporting practices, counselor educators’ curricula when training masters-level counseling students, and awareness to facilitate systemic change.
CORRELATION BETWEEN SOCIAL MEDIA AND MENTAL HEALTH IN ADOLESCENTS
(2026-04-16) Tillotson, Faith; Bedi, Sarah
In adolescents, how does limiting social media use or not using it at all, compared with using social media often, affect symptoms of anxiety and depression over 6-12 months? A search was conducted using CINAHL and PsycINFO through the Husson University Library database. For the searches, the keywords used were social media, mental health, and adolescents. Along with this, filters were added for peer-reviewed, full-text, and published within the past 10 years. Social media among adolescents is a growing public health concern. There has been a concerning association between the increase in anxiety and depression symptoms. Evidence from the studies reviewed shows the correlation between excessive or addictive social media use and mental health challenges. These mental health challenges include mood disturbances, sleep disturbances, and self-diagnosed anxiety and depression. The research reviewed suggests that the quality and addictive patterns of social media use, rather than just the duration, are essential factors that play a role in the mental health of adolescents. Limiting social media usage or addressing addictive patterns early on may reduce these mental health risks in adolescents. The data support evidence-based nursing practice by emphasizing the importance of routine psychosocial screenings. These screenings would include social media habits, sleep patterns, and self-reported mental health symptoms. Nurses could play a key role in reducing the effects of social media on mental health. Educating families, setting realistic boundaries, and referring adolescents to resources for mental health can prevent or decrease anxiety and depression symptoms. Implementing routine screening for social media use and mental health symptoms during adolescents' yearly physicals or school nurse visits to educate and identify adolescents who may be at risk of developing mental health concerns due to their social media usage. The next step would be to conduct longitudinal research to evaluate how these interventions can impact symptoms of anxiety and depression in adolescents over a period of time to provide more substantial evidence for clinical guidelines and education development.
DPT STUDENTS’ PERCEPTION OF CLINICAL READINESS AND CONFIDENCE IN THEIR KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ATTITUDES (KSAS) BEFORE THEIR FIRST FULL-TIME CLINICAL EXPERIENCE
(2026-04-16) Holmes, Jadyn; Piper, Emily; Richardson, Cierra; Saucier, Caileigh; Warren, Akira; LaPrino, Stephanie
Introduction Clinical experiences are essential in physical therapy education to bridge the gap between didactic learning and clinical practice. Early, contextualized opportunities, such as a student-run Pro Bono clinic, enhance skill development, confidence, and preparedness. Prior research suggests early clinical exposure improves self-perceived readiness for practice (Kalistratova et al., 2024). Additionally, competency frameworks have identified essential knowledge, skills, and professional behaviors required before initial clinical experiences. This study used a survey-based approach to evaluate Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) students’ perceived readiness and confidence prior to clinical placement. Methods A clinical readiness checklist adapted from Timmerberg et al. (2019) was organized into 13 domains encompassing knowledge, skills, attitudes, and professional behaviors. Participants rated perceived competence using a four-point Likert scale (Unfamiliar to Proficient). Eligible students completed an anonymous electronic survey via Google Forms after providing informed consent. No identifying information was collected. Results Students reported lower perceived competence in common diagnoses (36%), pathology (50%), infection control (31.8%), and self-introduction (40.9%), despite expected performance of “at least emerging.” In areas such as self-care, measuring muscle length, sensory assessment, legal considerations, and patient–provider relationships, 70–80% met expectations, while approx. 22% did not. For professional skills, 80–90% met expectations, with deficits noted in manual muscle testing and HIPAA (18.18%) and Code of Ethics (14.6%). In contrast, 90–100% met expectations in communication, interventions, patient handling, and documentation, with only 4.5% below expectations in aerobic exercise-related tasks. Conclusion DPT students reported higher confidence in communication and professional behaviors compared to clinical skills and reasoning. These findings suggest a gap between knowledge acquisition and clinical application, highlighting the need for earlier, structured clinical experiences to enhance readiness and self-efficacy.
EARLY WARNING FOR CAMPUS CYBER RISKS
(2026-04-16) Mwiseneza, Elvis; Lagulos, Marlon
Cyberattacks are a growing problem for colleges and universities. A single phishing email, stolen password, or infected device can interrupt classes, expose private records, and create major costs for colleges and universities. This project presents XCampus cyber risk monitor, a small lightweight cybersecurity risk monitor designed to give early warning signs before a major or minor incident happens. Instead of only detecting attacks after they begin, the system looks for behavior patterns by learning the pattern and that shows risk is increasing over time. It analyzes six main types of activity such as login failures, suspicious IP access, unusual file downloads, new device connections, phishing email patterns, and privileged access attempts from users. Because real campus security data is private, the project uses realistic designed synthetic data to simulate activity across departments such as finance, admissions, registrar, library, research, and student services. The data is cleaned and grouped by department and system, then transformed into features such as off-hours activity, sudden event spikes, and changes in external access. These features are used in three approaches which are; a machine learning model for risk prediction, an anomaly detection model for unusual behavior, and a rule based baseline for comparison. The system combines these outputs into a final risk score and classifies each department or system as low, medium, or high risk. Results from the prototype, it shows that the predictive model performed better than the rule based method, while anomaly detection helped to show suspicious patterns. The final product includes a simple dashboard for viewing risk levels and trends. This study shows that a practical and low cost early warning system can help universities move from reactive security toward proactive cyber risk management.
EFFECTIVE NON-PHARMACOLOGICAL PAIN MANAGEMENT IN PEDIATRIC INTENSIVE CARE UNIT PAITENTS
(2026-04-16) Rizzo, Addison; Bedi, Sarah
Effective pain management in pediatric intensive care unit (PICU) patients is a critical nursing responsibility. When pain is not properly managed, it can lead to negative physical and psychological outcomes, including increased blood pressure, weakened immune function, delayed healing, and prolonged recovery. Pain also affects a child’s emotional well-being, sleep quality, and behavior, which may extend hospital stays. Because children in the PICU often have limited ability to communicate their pain, fear, and frustration, it can heighten their emotional distress. Hospitalization and unfamiliar procedures can be overwhelming, making individualized pain management strategies essential. This evidence-based practice review explores how non-pharmacological pain management strategies, such as distraction techniques, compare to pharmacological interventions in reducing pain and anxiety among pediatric ICU patients. The clinical question guiding this review asks: In pediatric ICU patients, how do non-pharmacological pain management measures, such as distraction techniques, compared to pharmacological measures, affect pain reduction and the need for medications during the ICU stay? Evidence for this review was gathered from the CINAHL, PubMed, and Cochrane Library databases using key terms including non-pharmacological interventions, distraction techniques, pediatric intensive care unit, and pain management. Research demonstrates that non-pharmacological strategies such as music therapy, audiobooks, and hand massage can significantly reduce pain and fear in pediatric patients. These approaches provide comfort, decrease anxiety, and address children’s developmental and emotional needs during hospitalization (Akay et al., 2024b). While pharmacological interventions remain important for managing pain and supporting recovery, they carry risks such as respiratory depression and oversedation. Integrating non-pharmacological methods alongside medication can reduce these risks while improving patient comfort and overall outcomes (Alemdar et al., 2023d). Expanding nurse training and incorporating these strategies into care plans may enhance pediatric pain management and create a safer, more supportive environment for children and their families.
ENHANCING OR ALTERING FOOD FLACORS OR TEXTURES TO ENCOURAGE HEALTHIER EATING
(2026-04-16) Davis, Colby; Hacker, Jessica
This paper is a literature review of recent developments in olfactory reception and general sensory influences on food perception. Different brain processes coordinate to formulate taste perception, including the orbitofrontal cortex, insula, nucleus of the solitary tract, cranial nerves V, VII, IX, and X, and taste buds (Shaikh et al., 2023, p. 2). One can train these sensory receptors to be more open to healthy foods. Various methods have been identified, such as positive imaging while eating (Kaya et al., 2025), listening to pleasant music (Guedes et al., 2025), and utilizing proper mindful fasting techniques to alter appetite (Coletta et al., 2009). Combining mindful eating, pleasant presentation, environmental manipulation, and less restrictive eating can help one overcome misconceptions about healthy foods and improve one’s diet. Keywords: taste perception, healthy eating, obesity, emotional food connection, visual masking
ENHANCING STUDENT PT/PTA TEAMWORK THROUGH SIMULATION: A CASE STUDY
(2026-04-16) Fishburn, Makayla; McCarty, Olivia; Nicknair, Armanda; Poirier, Bryanna; Porter, Makaelyn; Zeigler, Madison; Bochynski, Jennifer
Purpose: This simulation experience case study is to explore how collaborative learning between physical therapist (PT) and physical therapist assistant (PTA) students enhances clinical preparedness and confidence while understanding individual roles. By engaging in a realistic patient scenario, students learned to develop interprofessional communication skills and a clearer understanding of roles. The simulation aims to better prepare students for real-world clinical settings where effective collaboration is essential for patient care and student confidence. Case Description: PT and PTA students were divided into mixed groups consisting of 1st-year DPT students, 1st- and 2nd- year PTA students, and a 3rd-year DPT student acting as a clinical instructor. Groups received a pre-brief reviewing PT/PTA roles and responsibilities, including case-based application of the APTA’s PTA supervision and direction algorithm. During the one-hour simulation, students developed and implemented a treatment plan for a standardized patient. The standardized patient presented with clinical red flags, prompting PTA students to determine appropriate next steps. A structured debrief followed, focusing on communication, roles, and clinical decision-making. Voluntary pre- and post-simulation surveys were completed. Outcomes: Fifty-four students completed both pre and post surveys (65.5% 1st year DPT students, 16.4% 1st year PTA students, and 18.2% as 2nd year PTA students. Mann-Whitney U tests analysis showed statistically significant improvements in four of the five domains: role understanding (p=.029), communication confidence (p=.024), preparedness for teamwork (p=.034), and recognizing scope boundaries (p=.017). PTA students demonstrated higher scores than DPT students pre- and post-simulation (p<.01). Prior clinical experience in various settings was associated with higher confidence levels. Discussion: While most simulation research emphasizes interprofessional education, limited literature addresses intraprofessional PT/PTA training. Findings suggest simulation enhances student confidence, role clarity, and communication. Simulation appears to be a valuable strategy for fostering confidence and role identification in the clinical setting.
EVIDENCE-BASED OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY SOLUTIONS FOR SYMPTOM MANAGEMENT IN PEDIATRIC ONCOLOGY
(2026-04-16) Anthony, Mary; Donovan, Stephanie; Roberts, Hayley; Howland, Katey
This project explored the literature surrounding interventions in occupational therapy that combat common symptoms experienced in pediatric oncology clients. A review of the literature is the first step in understanding evidence-based practice for occupational therapists working with pediatric oncology clients. The incidence of pediatric oncology has grown to approximately 15,000 children diagnosed with cancer annually in the U.S. (Ricci et al, 2024). The highest incidence rates are found in leukemias, brain tumors, and lymphomas (Siegal et al, 2018). Prevalence is notably higher among non-Hispanic White children, and residents of the Northeast (Price et al, 2025). Survival outcomes have improved significantly since the mid-1970s, with recent data showing five-year survival rates between 83.2% and 87.8% across pediatric age groups (Price et al, 2025). Improved survival rates lead to concurrent and post-cancer symptoms which often go underrecognized, impacting quality of life prompting the need for evidence-based interventions (Price et al, 2025). To further understand the evidence in occupational therapy surrounding treatment of symptoms, the authors analyzed the literature using a level of evidence framework. Levels of evidence are assigned to studies based on the research design, quality of the study, and applicability for clinical practice (Hissong et.al, 2015). A review of the literature narrowed symptoms commonly treated in occupational therapy to; fatigue, emotional regulation and responses, cognition, neurosensory, neuromotor and pain. Using reliable databases to further examine evidence-based interventions, the researchers examined and summarized best practices. After the literature was analyzed, the authors created an easy to read guide in understanding the evidence surrounding the effectiveness of occupational therapy treatment for each symptom. The findings emphasize an importance for integrating evidence-based occupational therapy interventions within a variety of treatment contexts for pediatric oncology clients.
EXPLORING THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN GENETIC VULNERABILITY AND ADDICITION IN DRUG-INDUCED PSYCHOSIS
(2026-04-16) Martinez, Sophia; Bedi, Sarah
The primary question of this study is whether a family history of psychosis and an increased risk for an individual who struggles with addiction to experience drug-induced psychosis? The study aims to identify what drug-induced psychosis is and how it differs from other variations of psychosis, while exploring underlying factors. The overall research is a literature review of three separate sources with a patient sampling ranging from 48-148 individuals. The first study discovered there are risk factors, such as drug use, that can increase and individual’s likelihood of developing this disease. While the second study focuses on a family history of psychosis and substance abuse, both separated and combined in individuals, to identify id one influences the other. The final study was a comparison of individuals who had primary psychosis with comorbid drug abuse and drug-induced psychosis: Diagnostic and clinical evolution at follow-up. The study revealed that overall, both groups showed similar diagnosis stability over time. There was no evidence that symptoms in drug-induced psychosis groups improved more after stopping substance abuse. Collectively, the evidence suggests that a family history of psychosis and a history of substance abuse are independent factors. Indicating a family history does not directly influence the likelihood of developing drug-induced psychosis if the individual is struggling with addiction. While these factors may not directly influence each other, both of them can increase the risk of the individual experiencing drug-induced psychosis.

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