2023

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DOMESTIC VIOLENCE AND ITS LONG-LASTING IMPACT ON WOMEN’S HEALTH
(2023-04-20) Helwig, Shelby; Wagner, Alexis
Domestic violence (DV), also known as intimate partner violence, is experienced by many women. In fact, 1 in 7 Maine women report abuse from their intimate partners. In this research, I conducted a literature review to investigate the types of DV and how each impacts women’s mental health. I investigated this research question in two ways: (1) I examined published studies regarding DV and how it impacts the victims involved and (2) I determined if there is a correlation between abuse and long-lasting mental health problems. I searched for relevant articles on DV, domestic abuse, intimate partner violence, and mental health. I selected eight representative articles published between 2002 – 2021 in journals such as Partner Abuse, Journal of Interpersonal Violence, Violence Against Women, and Journal of Psychiatric and Mental Health Nursing. All of these articles demonstrated that women who are abused currently or have previously been in an abusive relationship are negatively impacted mentally, emotionally, and financially. Women can experience many forms of abuse: physical, mental, emotional, and financial. Victims of each type of domestic abuse reported high rates of depression, anxiety, and PTSD symptoms with suicide attempts being three times higher in intimate partner violence survivors. Even further, DV impacts women’s physical health and many women are murdered by current or ex intimate partners. 40% of women who are murdered are killed by intimate partners and, in Maine, 43% of all murders are DV homicides. Moving forward, It is critical that healthcare and other organizations develop strategies to recognize the red flags of abuse and help protect women from their abusive situation before it escalates even further. In Maine, programs that can address a higher volume of victims with a focus on women scared to report could assist with the epidemic of DV.
THE STRESS IMPACTS OF RELOCATION ON ELDERLY
(2023-04-20) Helwig, Shelby; Blackie, Teagan
Moving into an assisted living facility can be a challenge and also place stress on the elderly, their caregivers, and their families. Specific stressors that the elderly face when moving into an assisted living facility include fear of losing family, memory, physical mobility, and freedom. I conducted a literature review to investigate how the stress of moving into an assisted living facility impacts an elder’s mental and physical health. I investigated this research question from multiple perspectives including the staff, family, and the elderly. I looked for articles that focused on moving into an assisted living facility, what the signs of depression and other mental health issues are in elderly, and what impact this move has on the family. I identified eight research articles published between 1995-2019 in journals such as Issues in Mental Health Nursing, Journal of Elder Abuse and Neglect, and Aging and Mental Health. These articles identified multiple pathways between elders moving into a long term care facility and stress. From a family perspective, family members were surprised and felt a sense of guilt when placing their elders into a home. From a staff perspective, burnout is prevalent due to overwork and understaffing. Unfortunately, families’ guilt and staff’s burnout can increase stress experienced by the elders in the care facilities. Additionally, stress driven by uncertainty, unfamiliarity, the fear of aging, as well as health and cognitive decline are related to greater stress during a transition to a care facility. When completing this literature review, I had a hard time finding articles that directly addressed the impact of transitioning into a care facility. The elderly population is growing and needs to be taken care of, thus, it is important for researchers to further research on this issue.
INFLUENCE OF SOIL MANAGEMENT STRATEGIES ON RASPBERRY CROPS
(2023-04-20) Northington, Robert; Eisenmann, August
Different soil management strategies have been shown to increase crop yields for farmers in many places. Raspberries are a very common crop grown during the warmer months in New England, which makes them a good candidate for crop research. Over the past two semesters, I have been working in gardens in multiple locations to distinguish how different soil management strategies affect raspberry crops. These sample locations included Husson University Garden, the personal raspberry crop of HU professor Roberta Trefts, and Butternut Farm in New Hampshire. The techniques used to farm these crops were all unique, so the data will show more about how these techniques affect the health of the raspberry crop. During the summer of 2022, samples of soil and raspberry plants were taken from the three farms over a three week period in order to determine plant biomass, soil texture, soil water content, and nutrient concentrations. The data showed that the chemistry and characteristics of the soils in Butternut farm and the Husson garden were very similar, and both farms had crops with fruit on them. Trefts farm soil had unique characteristics and chemistry compared to the other sites and the crops lacked fruit. The traditional management practices of the Husson Garden and Butternut Farms likely affected both the soils and the crops compared to the unique, but more natural methods found on Trefts farms. The data shows that the location of plants and how they are cultivated are important considerations for predicting yields of important agricultural crops.
LAND USE EFFECTS ON LOCAL STREAM ECOSYSTEMS IN AND AROUND BANGOR, ME
(2023-04-20) Belmont. Megan; Northington, Robert
The goal of this project is to gain an understanding of the impacts cities and increased human influence can have on a stream, because it is important to see the toll that human activity takes on the streams and life within them for the health of the environment. Two different streams were tested for this project, one in an urban area, and one in a rural area. Urban areas and rural areas have very different land uses, so this project will allow insight on the effect that land use has on its local streams. The first stream studied was the Kenduskeag Stream which is in a more urban setting, tested within the city limits of Bangor. The second stream was Little Birch Stream in Milford which is in a rural area located within the Sunkhaze National Wildlife Refuge. Water quality was assessed using both biological and chemical methods, including insect sampling, chlorophyll-a analysis, and water nutrient sampling for nitrogen and phosphorus. These methods helped to provide quantitative and qualitative data to determine the direct impacts of land use on water quality. Through use of the Hilsenhoff Biotic Index, the aquatic insects found in Kenduskeag Stream are more tolerant to organic pollution than the insects living in Little Birch Stream which are more intolerant to organic pollution. Chlorophyll-a trends for late summer show an average concentration of about 0.02 mcg/m2 for Little Birch Stream and 0.09 mcg/m2 for Kenduskeag Stream, indicating higher human influence at the urban site. Data suggests there are water nutrient differences between the two sites. Between insect and chlorophyll-a analysis, Kenduskeag Stream shows that it could be impacted by pollution due to human influence, while Little Birch Stream shows little to no evidence of pollution due to human influence.
UTILIZING LENTINUS EDODES FOR THE BIOSORPTION OF LEAD IN DRINKING WATER
(2023-04-20) Brackett, Abigail; Kennard, Raymond
The health risks associated with lead consumption have long been established. Due to mismanagement and an aging water infrastructure, in 2014, it was discovered that dangerously high levels of lead were found in the drinking water of Flint, Michigan. Since that time it has been discovered that thousands of cities in the United States have high levels of lead in their drinking water. Currently, the EPA and the Natural Resource Defense Council (NRDC) have estimated that 9 to 12 million lead pipes are currently in service delivering contaminated water to businesses and homes. Approximately 1.2 million children have lead poisoning in the United state, and it is estimated that 170 million citizens have been exposed to high levels of lead in their drinking water. With the goal of protecting children in the state, the Maine legislature passed a law requiring all Maine schools to test all drinking sources for lead concentrations. Results from recent testing have found some in-school water sources to have lead levels as high as 2500 ppb, with countless schools exceeding action levels higher than the action level of 4 ppb. These results have caused great concern in the general population about their personal home drinking water quality. Unfortunately, a drinking water test from a certified lab can cost $50 to 200, and remediation expenses can run in the tens of thousands of dollars. These prices are cost-prohibitive for low-income families. Seeking ways to cut costs, families turn to cheaper, commercially available at-home testing kits. The aim of this study is to determine the accuracy and reliability of several commercially available at-home drinking water tests and to determine if a low-cost biosorbent Lentinus edodes (shiitake mushrooms) is a viable method for lead remediation.
IS DUAL TASK ABILITY FULLY RECOVERED IN ATHLETES WHO HAVE COMPLETED THE CONCUSSION RETURN-TO-PLAY PROTOCOL?
(2023-04-20) Hartman, Zachary; Marquis, Gabrielle; Siegel, Sondra
Purpose: This study investigated deficits in dual task ability in collegiate athletes with acute concussions who have completed the return-to-play protocol. While previous research has demonstrated the persistence of deficits using standard cognitive tests, this study specifically addressed performance in a contextually relevant, sports-related challenge. Methods: Concussed and non-concussed college athletes completed a demographics and history questionnaire, and were assessed for balance using the Balance Error Scoring System test. For the novel test, gait parameters were measured under three conditions using an instrumented gait mat. Conditions included: walking at a comfortable pace, walking while watching a sport-related video and performing a cognitive task, and walking while watching the video and performing the cognitive and a secondary physical task. The cognitive task was also performed by the participant in a standing position. Response accuracy on the cognitive task was recorded for all conditions. Outcome Measures: Measures included gait speed, cadence, stance percentage, step variability, and response accuracy for the cognitive task. Results: The control group demonstrated better performance than the experimental group with comfortable gait and with gait plus the cognitive task, with significant differences in stride width percentage, percentage of stance time, and cadence. There were no apparent differences between the two groups for the condition of gait combined with cognitive and physical tasks. There were no significant differences in response accuracy between the groups; participants demonstrated near 100% accuracy under all conditions. Conclusions: Greater impairments in gait were seen in all participants as the cognitive and physical task became more challenging, but accuracy in the cognitive task was not sacrificed in either group. Gait parameters measured during a sport-related cognitive task may be sufficient to discern a difference in performance between concussed and non-concussed athletes and may be more relevant to a return-to-play decision than standard cognitive tests.
BLOOD FLOW RESTRICTION TRAINING FOR PERSISTENT KNEE EXTENSOR WEAKNESS
(2023-04-20) Scott, Wayne; Michaud-Gardner, Alyssa; Sylvia, Jack; Topiwala, Dave
This case study presents the effects of 8 weeks of blood flow restriction training (BFRT) for persistent knee extensor weakness following a long standing repaired ACL injury. A 20 year old female with no history of knee injury prior to the initial ACL tear in 2020 received a patellar bone graft 6 months later. The patient received traditional physical therapy for 6 weeks, which was inconsistent due to COVID-19 interruptions. The participant presented with an antalgic gait and difficulty performing stairs as a result of persistent knee extensor muscle weakness. The participant's knee extensor strength was tested using a Biodex force dynamometer. Initial testing demonstrated that the involved side knee extensors could only produce 68.7% of the muscle torque of the uninvolved side knee extensors. The participant underwent BFRT at a frequency of 2 sessions per week for a total of 8 weeks. The participant performed unilateral knee extensions, step ups, and leg presses for sets of 30, 15, 15 and 15 reps. Blood flow was restricted with a tourniquet inflated to 80% of the pressure which caused full arterial blood flow occlusion for the duration of each exercise with 2 minutes of cuff deflation between exercises. Following 8 weeks of training, the participant’s knee extensors on the involved side were able to produce 82.9% of the muscle torque of the uninvolved side knee extensors. In this case, BFRT demonstrated the ability to improve persistent knee extensor weakness following ACL repair. This improvement in strength was maintained at 3 and 6 month follow up testing. Significantly, the patient’s antalgic gait and difficulty performing stairs resolved during the 8 weeks of training.
ERROR ESTIMATION AND KNOWLEDGE OF RESULTS IN LEARNING A NOVEL MOTOR TASK
(2023-04-20) Duffy, Hannah; Lees, Jennifer; Shamaly, Shannon; Sidaway, Ben
When learning a new motor skill, feedback on the errors in performance, or knowledge of results, is important in order to make adjustments to the future response attempts. However, previous studies have shown that when high frequencies of feedback are provided to a learner such feedback can suppress intrinsic error detection and corrections processes resulting in poorer performance when that feedback is no longer available. Other studies have shown that requiring error estimation during practice prior to feedback being provided enhances learning of the skill. Such research though has not investigated the role of different frequencies of error estimation on learning nor has the combined effect of requiring error estimation while providing different frequencies of knowledge of results been investigated. It remains unknown whether there is an optimal frequency of error estimation for motor learning or whether error estimation may interact with the frequency of feedback. The present study included 6 randomly assigned intervention groups of young adults (18-35 years) that were differentiated on the basis of knowledge results (0%, 33%, or 100%) and error estimation (0%, 33%, or 100%) frequency. Each group was taught a shuffle-board like skill aiming at a target that was hidden from view. Each group performed a series of ten blocks of 12 practice trials followed by three retention tests (5 min, 1 day, 1 week), and a transfer test. Response error (absolute, constant, and variable) was calculated for each phase of the experiment along with the accuracy of error estimation. Preliminary results show that requiring overt error estimation of learners ameliorates the negative impact of high frequencies of knowledge of results feedback on skill learning. Discussion focuses on the potential interaction of error estimation and feedback for motor learning in clinical practice.
THE EDUCATION DESIGN AND IMPLEMENTATION OF THE CONTINUING EDUCATION COURSE IN ANATOMY FOR REHABILITATION SPECIALISTS
(2023-04-20) Brown, Colby; Conant, Kaicey; Durant, Jordan; Hooker, Cora; Robichaud, Shelby; Smith, Ashely; Howland, Chad
Purpose: Continuing education (CE) is essential to evidence-informed practice for healthcare providers such as licensed physical therapists. However, evidence suggests that approximately 1/3rd of physical therapists have participated in an anatomy-related CE course within the previous three years.1 Our teaching and learning project sought to design and implement a CE course specific to musculoskeletal anatomy for allied health professionals and physical therapy students. Description: A two-day CE course in functional and clinically oriented anatomy was designed and taught by a collaborative team of physical therapy educators and entry-level DPT students. The course implemented components of adult learning theory through experiential learning, peer-to-peer teaching, and collaborative learning in small groups.2,3 Summary of Use: Twenty-three registrants attended the CE anatomy course, with a significant percentage being student physical therapist assistants from a local community college (>70%). Nearly all attendees participated in the entire two-day session for twelve contact hours. After completing the final day of the CE course, all attendees completed the post-course survey. The results showed excellent ratings for an overall learning experience (95.5% of respondents), the quality of course instruction (100% of respondents), and course organization (86.4%). The CE course earned $ 8,120.00, and funds were allocated to DPT student scholarships and educational resources. Conclusion: Entry-level physical therapy education programs can meet the demand through collaborative teaching and learning projects between faculty and DPT students. When targeting a consumer population of healthcare providers, institutions need to consider the needs of the healthcare providers and correlate human anatomy to their area of clinical practice.
SEROTONERGIC AND DOPAMINERGIC-DEPENDENT BEHAVIORS ARE ALTERED BY LANTHANIDE SERIES METALS IN Caenorhabditis elegans
(2023-04-20) Radzimirski, Anthony; Ireland, Nicholas; Miller, Lydia; Croft, Michael; Newell-Caito, Jennifer; Caito, Samuel
The lanthanide series elements are transition metals used as critical components of electronics, as well as rechargeable batteries, fertilizers, antimicrobials, contrast agents for medical imaging, and diesel fuel additives. Furthermore, as electronics are limited in lifespan, lanthanides are found in electronic waste. With the surge in their utilization, lanthanide metals are being found more in our environment. However, little is known about the health effects associated with lanthanide exposure. Epidemiological studies as well as studies performed in rodents exposed to lanthanum (La) suggest neurological damage, learning and memory impairment, and disruption of neurotransmitter signaling, particularly in serotonin and dopamine pathways. Unfortunately, little is known about the neurological effects of heavier lanthanides. As dysfunction of serotonergic and dopaminergic signaling are implicated in multiple neurological conditions, including Parkinson’s disease, depression, generalized anxiety disorder, and post-traumatic stress disorder, it is of utmost importance to determine the effects of La and other lanthanides on these neurotransmitter systems. We therefore hypothesized that early life exposure of light (La or cerium (Ce)) or heavy (erbium(Er) or ytterbium (Yb)) lanthanides in Caenorhabditis elegans could cause dysregulation of serotonergic and dopaminergic signaling upon adulthood. Serotonergic signaling was assessed by measuring pharyngeal pump rate, crawl-to-swim transition, as well as egg laying behaviors. Dopaminergic signaling was assessed by measuring locomotor rate, egg laying, and swim-to-crawl transition behaviors. Treatment with La, Ce, Er, or Yb caused deficits in serotonergic or dopaminergic signaling in all assays, suggesting both the heavy and light lanthanides disrupt these neurotransmitter systems. Concomitant with dysregulation of neurotransmission, all four lanthanides increased reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation, while decreased glutathione and ATP levels. This suggests increased oxidative stress, which is a known modifier of neurotransmission. Altogether, our data suggest that both heavy and light lanthanide series elements disrupt serotonergic and dopaminergic signaling and may affect the development or pharmacological management of related neurological conditions.
EFFECTS OF BISPHOSPHONATE TREATMENT OF POST-MENOPAUSAL WOMEN ON BONE QUALITY PARAMETERS OF NEWLY FORMED BONE DETERMINED BY RAMAN SPECTROSCOPY. A COMPARISON VS HEALTHY PREMENOPAUSAL WOMEN
(2023-04-20) Phipps, Roger J.; Gamsjaeger, Sonja; Shane, Elizabeth; Cohen, Adi; Dempster, David W.; Eriksen, Erik F.; Paschalis, Eleftherios P.
In the treatment of postmenopausal osteoporosis (PMO), the potent bisphosphonates (BPs) alendronate (ALN; Fosamax), risedronate (RIS; Actonel) and zoledronate (ZOL; Reclast) are first line therapy. They produce similar decreases in fracture risk despite different levels of suppression of bone resorption and bone turnover (ALN>ZOL>RIS). To determine if differences in effects on bone quality may play a role in this apparent discrepancy, this study assessed the effects of these BPs on bone quality indices of newly formed trabecular bone. Methods: Iliac crest bone biopsies from PMO patients treated with ALN (for 3 years and ≥ 5 years), RIS (for 3 years and ≥ 5 years), and ZOL (for 6 months, 2 years, ZOL2 and 3 years, ZOL3) were analyzed by Raman microspectroscopy. Bone quality indices mineral to matrix ratio (MM), mineral crystallite maturity/crystallinity (MMC), and glycosaminoglycan (GAG), and pyridinoline (Pyd) content were determined. Biopsies from placebo treated PMO women (PMO-PLC) were also analyzed. Data were compared with those in healthy adult premenopausal women (HC) by ANCOVA followed by post-hoc testing (significance p<0.05). Results: Both RIS groups had MM, MMC and Pyd values similar to HC. ZOL3 had MM and Pyd similar to HC and ZOL2 had MMC similar to HC. Both ALN groups had only MM similar to HC. None of the BP-treated groups had similar GAG to HC. The PLC group had MM similar to HC but was significantly different for MMC, GAG and Pyd. Conclusion: in this analysis PMO patients treated with RIS (Actonel) formed bone with quality closest to that in HC. Those treated with ALN (Fosamax) formed bone with quality least similar to HC. These differences in effects on bone quality may in part explain how these BPs achieve similar antifracture efficacy in treatment of PMO despite differences in bone turnover suppression.
NANOVESICLES IN BROCCOLI SPROUTS AS A NATURAL POTENTIAL MEDICINE FOR THE TARGETED TREATMENT OF INFLAMMATORY BOWEL DISEASE
(2023-04-20) Palmer, Emilie; Kaserman, Elise; Dunham, Kaitlyn; Kuhn, Brian; Yang, Tianzhi; Bai, Shuhua
Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is an incurable small intestine and colon disorder. While exerting anti-inflammatory effects, bioactives in broccoli sprouts cannot treat IBD well probably due to their instability in the gastrointestinal (GI) tract and/or inadequate transit into colon cells. The study aimed to investigate if broccoli sprout-derived exosome (BSDExo) nanovesicles can protect bioactives from the upper GI extreme environments and confer selectively targeted delivery of bioactives to inflamed colon cells in IBD. Microparticles with 1198.3±86.2 nm and nanovesicles with 40.1±17.2 nm were isolated from broccoli sprout juice using differential centrifugations and measured by a DelsaTM Nano C nanosizing system. They showed different morphologies under a scanning electron microscope (SEM). Total protein and RNA were characterized in both broccoli sprout-derived microparticles and nanoparticles. Exosomes expressed the highest level of transmembrane protein CD63 evaluated by an Exo-Check array. These nanosized and identified proteins are known to be associated with exosomes. BSDExo protected bioactive sulforaphane for 2 hours in stomach-mimicking acid and 24 hours in intestine-mimicking conditions. BSDExo with a total protein level of 25 ng/mL could promote the proliferation of human normal colon epithelial CCD841 CoN cells with a cell viability of 154±5% (p<0.05). Both colon CCD841 CoN and Caco-2 cellular uptake of fluorescence-labeled BSDExo significantly increased with more severe inflammation stimulations. Interleukin 8 (IL-8) secretion from inflammation-stimulated normal colon cells was significantly reduced by the BSDExo treatment (p<0.05). BSDExo also significantly recovered the decreased transepithelial electrical resistance (TEER) values caused by inflammations in Caco-2 cells (p<0.05). Overall, the isolated BSDExo improved the stability, inflammation-targeting, and therapeutic efficacy of bioactives in colon epithelial cells via a naturally formed nanostructure. Demonstrating that BSDExo interacts with the targeting gut inflammatory cells and regulates anti-inflammatory responses would be a significant step forward in treating IBD.
EXAMINATION OF THE POTENTIAL ROLE OF UDP IN INTERLEUKIN-8 EXPRESSION BY FIBROBLASTS DURING CELL INJURY
(2023-04-20) Kennard, Emma; Lindblad, William J.
Prior studies from our lab show scraping a monolayer of fibroblasts, an in vitro wound model, results in cell migration and enhanced expression of inflammatory mediators including interleukin-8 (IL-8) by residual cells. This effect is more pronounced in fibroblasts from the skin of diabetic people than non-affected people. This expression is seen in the cells adjacent to the scraped area but also in cells 2 and 3 cells removed from the scraped edge. Studies in epithelial cells suggest that nucleotides, specifically uridine 5’-diphosphate (UDP) released from cells upon wounding in the same model bind to P2Y6 receptors on cells inducing cell migration. We hypothesized that UDP may serve as a wound mediator for fibroblasts and that it may induce the expression of IL-8. Human dermal fibroblasts (GM 1872 cells, Coriell Institute) were cultured in 100 mm dishes and grown to confluence in DMEM high glucose media containing 10% fetal calf serum and penicillin-streptomycin. Cell monolayers were scraped in a grid pattern and cultured for 24 hrs. with/out additives. UDP at 100 and 10 µM was added to non-scraped and scraped cultures of fibroblasts to determine the potential involvement of UDP that we have seen in IL-8 expression. Following 24 hr. incubation, total RNA was extracted and quantitation of IL-8 mRNA content was assessed by qPCR. Modified culture media used for the 24 hr. culturing was analyzed for UDP content by ion-pairing HPLC. UDP, immediately released from scraped cell monolayers, was determined by HPLC following a 10X concentration of PBS used to maintain cell viability during scraping. Despite a lower limit of detection of 20 ng, no UDP could be detected and further studies with LC/MS are continuing to ascertain if any quantifiable UDP is released from the scraped cells. Cell levels of mRNA for IL-8 normalized to GAPDH are being analyzed to determine if exogenous UDP enhances the expression of this cytokine. These studies will increase our understanding of what factors during fibroblast injury promote migration and the expression of pro-inflammatory mediators.
INVOLVEMENT OF DIVALENT METAL TRANSPORTER HOMOLOGS IN THE TOXICITY OF LANTHANIDE SERIES ELEMENTS IN Caenorhabditis elegans
(2023-04-20) Ireland, Nicholas; Miller, Lydia; Caito, Samuel
Lanthanide series elements are transition metals that are used in a variety of electronics, including superconductors, electronic polishers, hybrid car components, and rechargeable batteries, as well as in fertilizers, antimicrobials, contrast agents for medical imaging and diesel fuel additives. Lanthanides are also present in electronic waste and are released during electronic cigarette smoking. Levels of lanthanides have risen significantly in both industrial areas and environmentally. While we are starting to recognize health effects of lanthanide exposure, it is currently unknown how lanthanide metals enter cells. If we are to understand their toxicokinetics in the human body, it is imperative to determine mechanisms by which lanthanides are distributed. We hypothesized that endogenous divalent metal transporters (DMTs) are responsible for lanthanide entry into cells, and that genetic ablation of DMT transporters in Caenorhabditis elegans would protect the worms from lanthanide-induced toxicity. In this study, we performed a competitive inhibition survival assay by pretreating wildtype worms with nonlethal doses of metals that enter cells through a variety of mechanisms, then treating the worms with increasing concentrations of lanthanum (La). Lethality was assessed 48 hours post exposure. Worms treated with either manganese or iron, metals that enter cells via DMTs, shifted the La dose-response survival curve to the right, suggesting La was competing for the same transporter as iron or manganese. However worms pretreated with zinc, magnesium, or chromium could not block lanthanum-mediated lethality. These data suggest that DMTs are responsible for lanthanides to enter cells. We then treated transgenic worms that lacked DMT homologs smf-1, smf-2, or smf-3, with increasing concentrations of La or ytterbium (Yb). Knock out of either of the smf genes shifted the dose-response curve for La or Yb to the right, showing protection. These results suggest that DMTs are important mediators for lanthanide series elements to enter eukaryotic cells.
DEVELOPMENT OF FOLATE RECEPTOR TARGETED PLGA-PEG NANOPARTICLES FOR DELIVERY OF GENISTEIN IN OVARIAN CANCER
(2023-04-20) Hussain, Muhammad Delwar; Patra, Arjun; Satpathy, Swaha
Genistein (GEN) is a natural isoflavone possessing anticancer activity against different types of cancers. Its use in clinical practice is limited due to its low water solubility, rapid metabolism and excretion, lack of cancer cell targeting, and poor bioavailability. One of the approaches to overcome the above limitations is targeted nano delivery to the affected site. Folic acid (FA), a water-soluble vitamin B, is required in the production of new cells and is essential for both tumor and normal cells. The folic acid receptor (folate receptor, FR) is over-expressed in more than 90% of ovarian cancer cells. In the present study, we investigated PEGylated poly(lactide-co-glycolide) nanoparticles conjugated with folic acid (PLGA-PEG-FA NPs) for targeted delivery of genistein to ovarian cancer cells. PLGA-PEG and PLGA-PEG-FA polymer conjugates were synthesized and characterized. Nanoprecipitation method was utilized for the fabrication NPs of PLGA, PLGA-PEG, and PLGA-PEG-FA. The prepared GEN containing PLGA-PEG and PLGA-PEG-FA NPs were small (104.17±1.61 and 125.41±3.11 nm, respectively) and exhibited sustained release of GEN for around 6 days. In comparison to the non-targeted PLGA-PEG NPs, FA decorated PLGA-PEG-FA NPs showed increased cellular uptake in FR overexpressing SKOV-3 ovarian cancer cells. The GEN containing PLGA-PEG-FA NPs showed superior anticancer activity than non-targeted PLGA NPs and PLGA-PEG NPs in the SKOV-3 ovarian cancer cells. The IC50 of GEN, GEN encapsulated NPs of PLGA, PLGA-PEG and PLGA-PEG-FA in the SKOV-3 cells were 51.48, 26.70, 23.43 and 11.98 µg/ml, respectively. The GEN containing PLGA-PEG-FA showed superior anticancer activity than the non-targeted NPs in SKOV-3 ovarian cancer cells. Folate-targeted PLGA nanoparticles could be further developed for potential target-specific delivery of GEN in the treatment of ovarian cancer.
CHARACTERIZATION AND ANALYSIS OF BIOACTIVES IN BLUEBERRY-DERIVED EXOSOMES: NEW INSIGHTS INTO A POTENTIAL ANTIOXIDATION NANOMEDICINE
(2023-04-20) Dunham, Kaitlyn; Canham, Spencer; Palmer, Emilie; Bai, Shuhua; Yang, Tianzhi
Blueberries provide evident benefits of reducing oxidative stress and inflammation, improving cognitive function, and protecting against neurodegenerative diseases as a “super” fruit. However, high levels of bioactive molecules in blueberries, such as anthocyanin, have poor stability and absorption, leading to low bioavailability in the brain. Exosomes attract strong interest as an important vehicle of intercellular communication and as a delivery carrier of bioactive molecules. Herein, the study focuses on characterizing blueberry-derived exosomal nano-vesicles that contain bioactive molecules, and determining if they have better stability and are more readily taken up by cells. Blueberry juice was directly extracted with an electric blender and passed through filter papers. The collected juice was sequentially centrifuged at 1,000 × g for 10 min, 3,000 × g for 20 min, and 10,000 × g for 40 min at 4 °C to remove large particles and debris. The final supernatant was centrifuged at 100,000 × g for 30 min to obtain exosomes. The exosome morphology was observed with scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and the particle size was determined with a Nano Sizing Analyzer. The exosomes had a size of 82.7±6.4 nm and appeared as individually sphere-shaped morphology as shown in SEM images. Exosomes were analyzed and quantified for total proteins and RNAs. Well-known exosome-unique markers, including Cis-Golgi matrix protein GM130, adaptor protein and sort cargo ALIX, tumor susceptibility gene TSG10, intercellular adhesion molecule 1 (ICAM-1), apoptosis ANXA5, integral membrane protein FLOT, epithelial cell adhesion molecule (EpCam), and transmembrane tetraspanin family CD63 and CD81, were detected by an Exo-Check array. MicroRNA sequencing analysis revealed that the intersection between differentially expressed genes and miRNAs contained in exosomes could unveil a set of candidate target genes. The 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) study demonstrated that the exosomes showed cytotoxicity in neural cancerous cells. The characterized exosomes with biomolecules may deliver therapeutic molecules in the brain and target neural cells, leading to improved efficacy in the treatment of neurodegenerative diseases.
HOMELESS AND HUNGRY IN BANGOR: RX 504 SERVICE LEARNING CAPSTONE PROJECT
(2023-04-20) Johnson, Jessica; Doctor of Pharmacy Candidates, Class of 2024
Husson University School of Pharmacy Class of 2024 enrolled in RX 504 - Clinical Pharmacy Capstone, a required service-learning course that allows students to apply knowledge developed over the course of their studies to a real-world problem in their local community. Doctor of Pharmacy candidates established a goal of assessing the needs of individuals experiencing homelessness in Penobscot County. First, students held a discussion surrounding the documentary “Hungry Now,” which explored the current homelessness crisis in the state of Maine. Second, students read published scientific literature evaluating the barriers to healthcare and medication adherence unique to persons experiencing homelessness. Students proposed possible solutions and explored how their various ideas might help individuals to overcome barriers to accessing needed medical care. Third, we visited the Bangor Area Homeless Shelter on two separate occasions with the goal of sharing a nutritious meal and speaking with residents to explore their needs and concerns regarding their medication regimens. Additionally, students advocated for expanded access to vaccinations in Maine by writing and delivering verbal testimonies at the Maine State House and provided community education at the Maine Science Festival. Through this community-engaged service-learning experience, Pharmacy students explored themes of access, wellness, identity, responsibility, and sustainability; developed a better understanding of the daily struggles faced by unhoused individuals in their local community; and were empowered to take evidence-based action in response to identified health disparity.
COMPENSATION FOR BOARD OF PHARMACY MEMBERS IN THE UNITED STATES
(2023-04-20) Pham, Hannah; Ifeji, Chidubem; White, Cassandra
Background: No published data exists regarding compensation and demographic differences between the memberships of the 50 United States (U.S.) Boards of Pharmacy. Objectives: The purpose of this study was to quantify and compare the per diem pay rate for U.S. Board of Pharmacy members. Board member demographics and compensation for mileage and meals were also evaluated. Methods: In June 2022, each state Board of Pharmacy was contacted to gather data including per diem pay, mileage and meal compensation, number of meetings per year, number and gender of Board members, length of appointment, and regulatory statutes. Results: The average per diem pay for Board members was $75.86 (median = $50.00, range = $0.00 to $250.00, n = 48 states). Most states report paying Board members for mileage (95.1%, n = 39 out of 41) and meals (80.0%, n = 28 out of 35). On average, Boards are composed of 8.3 members (median = 7.5, range = 5-17, n = 50), meet 8.3 times annually (median = 8, range 3-16, n = 47), and have a 4.5 year length of appointment (median = 4, range = 3-6, n = 47). Males represented 61.2% of occupied Board positions and pharmacists accounted for 74.1% of all positions. The average year for pharmacy statute update was 2002. Conclusion: Compensation for U.S. Board of Pharmacy members varies greatly, from unpaid (n = 8 states) to a high of $250.00 per diem. Only 38.8% of occupied Board positions are held by women and pharmacy technicians represent just 3.6% of all positions. Fair compensation, increased female and pharmacy technician representation, and more timely pharmacy statute updates are necessary in order to achieve inclusion, diversity, and equity between state Boards of Pharmacy.
TRAINING STUDENTS TO THINK LIKE A PHARMACIST – A STRUCTURED TOOLKIT FOR P1S
(2023-04-20) Frail, TJ; McLean Peter; Vigue, Elizabeth; Nash, Jamie; Dhing, Conrad; Yang, Tianzhi; Johnson, Jessica; Domina, Aaron
Recognizing that many students struggle with the transition between undergraduate prepharmacy coursework and the demands of a professional Doctor of Pharmacy program, Husson University School of Pharmacy (HUSOP) developed a semester long “Toolkit” to support and mentor first-year PharmD students. The primary goals of the Toolkit included: (1) support the development of highly effective study habits for academic success and (2) improve cohesion of the entering cohort to support individual well-being and sense of belonging. Method: First professional year pharmacy students were required to participate in a two-part Toolkit initiative. Prior to the start of the academic term, students attended a two-day live orientation to explore evidence-based study strategies and tools, goal setting, and growth mindset development. Throughout the fall term, HUSOP partnered with numerous stakeholders to facilitate weekly one-hour meetings for students to discuss application of study strategies within professional coursework and to provide cohort-building activities. Students completed a survey-based evaluation tool to provide feedback on Toolkit activities and delivery. Results: Nineteen students were admitted in the cohort and sixteen completed the post-survey (84% response rate). Seven of 16 students (44%) reported agreement with the statement, “I used toolkit strategies to prepare for quizzes and exams.” 14 of 16 students (87.5%) reported agreement with the statement, “I feel like part of the P1 cohort.” Post-survey data suggested the Toolkit sessions most valued by students were led directly by faculty who could provide additional context and perspective for course content, as well as interactive feedback on assessment performance. Conclusion: The Toolkit program supported students’ transition into the PharmD program through faculty and staff-led sessions targeting student success and group cohesion. Feedback from students and faculty will guide the new iteration of Toolkit programming for Fall 2
METFORMIN REDUCES ATYPICAL ANTIPSYCHOTIC-ASSOCIATED WEIGHT GAIN IN ADULTS
(2023-04-20) Bosquet, Randy; Caron, Lindsey; James, Shannon
Purpose: Metformin is an underutilized management strategy in preventing and treating antipsychotic-associated weight gain (AAWG). Pharmacists may be in a unique position to educate providers and drive implementation into current clinical practice. This review analyzes recent literature to identify the impact of metformin treatment on AAWG in adult patients. Methods: We performed a review using PubMed with search criteria (antipsychotic induced weight gain) AND (metformin) which yielded 125 results. Articles were included if they discussed AAWG for adult patients along with metformin use for prophylaxis or treatment. Articles were excluded if they focused on the pediatric population or did not include management strategies for AAWG. There were 21 studies that were analyzed and included in this review. The primary endpoint was weight loss or change in weight in patients taking metformin with an atypical antipsychotic. Results: Although AAWG is common amongst all medications within the class, studies showed that some atypical antipsychotics have a much larger incidence rate without metformin use, such as olanzapine, where 30% of individuals were shown to have greater than 7% increase in body weight from baseline. Both short and long-term studies show metformin prevents an increase in weight gain by about 5 kg when it is started at the initiation of an atypical antipsychotic. Treatment based metformin use showed an approximate 3 kg reduction in body weight when started after AAWG occurred. Studies showed that higher doses of metformin (>500 mg) had a greater effect on weight decrease when compared to other dosages. Doses of metformin ranged from 500 to 2250 mg daily for AAWG prophylaxis and treatment ranged from 6 weeks to 18 months long. Conclusion: Use of metformin prophylactically could decrease premature discontinuation of atypical antipsychotics and prevent associated morbidity. Future studies could assess the impact of pharmacist led metformin protocols in patients initiating atypical antipsychotics.

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