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Publication THE POWER OF AI ALGORITHMS ON YOUR WORLDVIEW(2025-04-17) Fulmer, RussellArtificial intelligence (AI) algorithms play an increasingly significant role in shaping individual worldviews by filtering and reinforcing information that aligns with pre-existing beliefs. This presentation explores how algorithms influence decision-making, mood, and perceptions, often restricting cognitive diversity and nurturing ideological echo chambers. While AI can serve beneficial purposes, the unchecked power of algorithms raises concerns about manipulation, misinformation, and the erosion of critical thinking. The presentation introduces the concept of the "cognitive anaconda," illustrating how algorithmic filtering gradually constricts diverse viewpoints, leading to ideological rigidity. To mitigate the negative impact of AI-driven algorithms, I propose five key strategies: increasing awareness of algorithmic influence, building critical thinking skills, developing critical ignoring as a digital literacy skill, engaging with diverse perspectives, and encouraging traditional reading practices. By adopting these strategies, individuals can counteract algorithmic biases and develop a more independent, well-rounded worldview. This presentation emphasizes the urgency of integrating AI literacy into education to ensure responsible engagement with digital information ecosystems.Publication THE ECONOMIC UNDERPINNINGS OF THE 2025 U.S. TRADE AND TARIFFS POLICY(2025-04-17) Cunningham, Steven R.This is a purely economic consideration of the apparent motivations, context, and underpinnings of the 2025 trade and tariff policy initiatives of the Trump Administration. The analysis neither supports nor challenges the validity of the initiatives, but rather attempts to make sense of them based on economic theory, data, and experience. Among the motivations offered by advocates are the needs to rebuild the U.S. manufacturing base, to rectify rising federal debt, and to achieve fairness among trading partners. I analyze each of these in turn. While there is some support for each of these, the issues also prove much more complex. There is supporting evidence that while U.S. manufacturing output has risen in recent decades, its growth is likely somewhat suppressed, and has been surpassed by some trading partners like China. But it is not clear why. U.S. manufacturing employment has declined relative to output, but this is more likely a result of automation in non-labor-intensive production, while off-shoring labor-intensive production. The tariffs could bring in significant revenue, helping to address debt and deficit issues, but at what cost, is it enough, and can it succeed long-term? If reciprocity in rates results in mutually lower tariffs, revenue generation will be limited. And is reciprocity really possible? Based on traditional theories of the effects of inelastic supply limiting the ability of producers to pass on tariffs to buyers, it is possible that, in the short term, the tariffs might not result in significant inflationary pressure. Longer term, this likely would not hold.Publication THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN PHASE ANGLE AND ANAEROBIC POWER IN RECREATIONAL ACTIVE FEMALES(2025-04-17) Peterson, Shelby; Linchey, Jaimie; Boyd, James; Houck, JonathanBody composition has been reported to be correlated to anaerobic power. In assessing body composition, body fat percentage is the most common value measured, however phase angle, a marker of cellular health using bioelectrical impedance (BIA), has shown promise as a method of determining anaerobic power for comparison. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the relation between phase angle measurements and an individual's ability to produce upper and lower extremity power, used as a measure of performance. The preliminary data required 9 volunteer participants to follow pretest guidelines and attend 3 sessions including informed consent, BIA, and body composition analysis (visit 1). The purpose of this visit was to collect phase angle (PhA), and body composition data. A randomized upper and lower body 30 second Wingate test was then completed (visit 2-3). Upper and lower body peak power (PP) and fatigue index (FI%) were collected. Descriptive statistics included mean, standard deviation, minimum and maximum were performed for all outcome measurements. Pearson’s correlation was conducted to determine strength of correlation between variables. PhA shows a stronger correlation to upper body PP than body fat percentage, r (7)=0.56; r(7)=0.27. PhA shows a weaker correlation to lower body PP than body fat percentage, r (7)=0.32; r(7)=0.66. For upper body FI%, a stronger negative correlation exists with PhA compared to body fat percentages r(7)=-0.54; r(7)=0.00. In lower body FI%, a stronger negative correlation exits with PhA compared to body fat percentages r(7)=-0.44; r(7)= -0.12. Current collected evidence suggests PhA as a valuable marker of predicting PP in upper body and overall FI% of recreational active females. However, body fat percentages was better correlated to lower body PP.Publication THE IMPACT OF A PHYSICAL THERAPY EDUCATION PROGRAM ON IMPLICIT BIAS AND CULTURAL COMPETENCY(2025-04-17) Ketch, Abigail; McGovern, Abigail; Pelletier, Sophie; Seitz, Kim; Spencer, Jonathan; Siegel, SondraPurpose: Cultural competency is essential for physical therapists in providing equitable care to diverse populations. Extensive research has demonstrated that implicit biases adversely affect healthcare delivery across various disciplines such as nursing and medicine; however, limited attention has been given to understanding the impact of physical therapy education on bias. This study aimed to determine whether the Husson University Doctor of Physical Therapy (HUDPT) program reduces bias and improves cultural humility in its students, and whether the didactic courses or clinical experiences have a greater influence on these changes. Methods: Participants included the classes of 2024-2027 in the HUDPT program. Students completed two assessments at three time points: (1) the Cultural Competence Self-Assessment Checklist (CCSAC) and (2) the Harvard Implicit Association Test (IAT). Data were collected at the following times: 1) during year one of the DPT program (DPT1), before exposure to clinical rotations, 2) during year two of the program (DPT2), before two 12-week clinical rotations, and 3) during year 3 (DPT3), after all clinical rotations. Kruskal-Wallis tests were conducted to analyze differences among time points, followed by Tukey’s post hoc test. Results: A statistically significant difference was found in implicit bias scores between DPT1 and DPT3 (p<.05), with a trend toward a difference between DPT2 and DPT3 (p=.06). However, there were no significant differences among the tests of cultural competence for the three groups. Conclusion: These findings suggest that the combination of didactic education and clinical experiences may contribute to decreases in implicit bias; however, these experiences did not appear to influence students' explicit self-assessment of cultural competence. Further research must be done to assess whether increased exposure to greater diversity in patient populations or coursework would further impact scores.Publication KNEEHAB FATIGUE STUDY(2025-04-17) Marvin, Nicholas; Pomerleau, Avery; Triplett, Hunter; Scott, WayneExcessive muscle fatigue is a limiting factor when using neuromuscular electrical stimulation (NMES) to strengthen muscles. The purpose of this research was to explore the effects of the multipath Kneehab electrical stimulation garment as compared to a more typical unipath stimulator on fatigue in the quadriceps muscle. It has been claimed that the Kneehab reduces muscle fatigue, perhaps increasing its efficacy as a therapeutic device. This study used 7 participants as their own control. Participants’ strength was tested using a Biodex dynamometer to measure isometric knee extensor torque. The maximum volitional contraction (MVC) muscle torque on the right leg was measured and then the Kneehab was tested on this leg. The Kneehab intensity was increased to the maximum tolerated intensity for a 10 second duration contraction. After a 5 minute rest, a 15 contraction fatigue protocol was conducted. There was a 1:1 ratio of on/off times (10 sec on/10 sec off). A similar protocol was then repeated using the left leg and a unipath Grass Stimulator. The intensity was set to elicit a similar percentage of the MVC torque as was tested with the Kneehab on the right leg. Fatigue indexes were calculated using the peak torque from the first contraction and the peak torque produced by the 15th contraction. The average peak torque of the 15 contractions for each device was also measured. We did not observe any significant differences. There were minimal differences between the Kneehab and Grass stimulators for average peak torque (p = .30) and the fatigue indexes (p = .64). There were no significant findings to suggest the Kneehab produces less muscle fatigue as compared to a traditional unipolar NMES device. However, because we only had 7 participants, we may have been underpowered to detect a difference.Publication BLOOD FLOW RESTRICTION TRAINING: A CASE STUDY(2025-04-17) Artkop, Kyle; Goodwin, Payton; Palmer, Emelia; Villanova, Brianna; Scott, WayneThe following study was conducted to determine the efficacy of blood flow restriction training (BFRT) in improving residual quadriceps weakness as an alternative therapeutic intervention for increasing knee strength and stability. The participant demonstrated persistent quadriceps weakness despite previous physical therapy interventions for a MCL and medial meniscus tear of the knee. Two sessions per week for eight weeks of BFRT were performed on the involved quadriceps, utilizing a tourniquet at 80% occlusion pressure. The participant performed the following unilateral exercises: seated knee extensions, step-downs, and leg presses. The participant completed sets of 30, 15, 15, and 15 repetitions, or went to failure. Thirty-second rest breaks were provided between sets during each exercise with the occlusion maintained. At the completion of each exercise, the pressure was released, and a 2-minute non-occluded rest break was taken. Occlusion was restored for the next exercise. At the end of the 8-week training period, the participant's knee extensor strength was retested with a maximal voluntary contraction (MVC). The findings indicated a 5.6 Nm increase in the MVC of the involved quadriceps, demonstrating an improvement in strength. In addition the participant reported there was decreased joint pain, as well as improved knee stability during activities of daily living. These findings warrant further research into the efficacy of BFRT as an alternative treatment method for patients with persistent quadriceps weakness.Publication LEARNING WITHOUT BORDERS: EXPERIMENTAL EDUCATION & GLOBAL HEALTH(2025-04-17) Lewis, Miranda; LaPrino, StephanieBackground & Purpose: This project explores the reflections of a final year Husson University (HU) doctor of physical therapy (DPT) student following a four-week immersion experience in a variety of settings associated with local nonprofits in Delhi, India. International experiential learning has many benefits regarding healthcare including: expansion of skills, increased knowledge of different healthcare systems, improved critical thinking for treatment approaches, and appreciation for uncommon diagnoses. Experiential learning additionally aids in personal development, including improved social and communication skills, adaptability, self-awareness, and cultural awareness. Methods: HU partnered with Child Family Health International (CFHI) for this learning experience and completed preparatory work prior to arrival including a zoom meeting with CFHI’s local medical director and modules focused on increasing cultural awareness, safety and insight into service-learning. During the four-week immersion in Delhi, the student independently rotated between multiple medical settings. In the variety of settings, the student was able to participate in vocational training, adolescent rehabilitation conversations, ophthalmology observation, HIV/AIDs education and physical therapy interventions for those with neurological conditions. Additionally, the student performed a potential needs assessment of Apollo Hospital and Dr. Shroffs Charity Eye Hospital, creating a list of items and resources needed to improve treatment. Reflection & Limitations: The partnership with CFHI and a variety of nonprofits in Delhi gave this HU DPT student a great insight into the expectations of global learning. The pros and cons discussed in literature are aligned with the experience of the HU DPT student, seen through positive interactions and lasting relationships formed with staff in the PT department. Revealed limitations include language preparation, prior clinical knowledge and differences in healthcare system structure, reducing optimal communication effectiveness. Future student recommendations include more prior clinical experience, an introduction into the local dialect, and potential meetings with CCTH staff prior to arrival to discuss the variety of experiences offered, as well as overall environment and expectations. This project explores the reflections of a final year Husson University (HU) doctor of physical therapy (DPT) student following a four-week immersion experience in a variety of settings associated with local nonprofits in Delhi, India. International experiential learning has many benefits regarding healthcare including: expansion of skills, increased knowledge of different healthcare systems, improved critical thinking for treatment approaches, and appreciation for uncommon diagnoses. Experiential learning additionally aids in personal development, including improved social and communication skills, adaptability, self-awareness, and cultural awareness.Publication DELETION OF DIVALENT METAL TRANSPORTER HOMOLOGS IN Caenorhabditis elegans PREVENTS LANTHANUM- AND YTTERBIUM-INDUCED OXIDATIVE INJURY(2025-04-17) Rusiecki, Aaron; Letourneau, Lindsay; Quinlan, Alaina; Smith, Erin; Vose, Paige; Caito, SamuelLanthanide 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. 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 treated wild type N2 or 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 of the N2 dose-response curve, signifying protection from the mutations. We have previously observed that La and Yb cause increased body burden of oxidative stress in worms. Treatment of the smf mutant worms with La or Yb caused significantly less reactive oxygen species (ROS) generated in the worm as compared to N2 worms. Glutathione levels have been shown to decrease in N2 worms following La or Yb treatment, however GSH levels were rescued by deletion of the smf genes. Furthermore, smf mutants showed less mitochondrial damage and had increased levels of ATP as compared to N2. These results suggest that DMTs are important mediators for lanthanide series elements to enter eukaryotic cells.Publication ASSESSING METACOGNITIVE AWARENESS INVENTORY (MAI) IMPROVEMENT IN THE FIRST PROFESSIONAL SEMESTER OF PHARMACY(2025-04-17) Ouellette, Abigail; Vigue, Elizabeth; Frail, Thomas; McLean, PeterBackground: Increased metacognitive awareness is linked to success in doctoral level programs. Some doctoral programs in medicine and pharmacy have researched specific metacognitive awareness activities. However, none have evaluated metacognitive awareness, as a whole, in pharmacy students. Recognizing the struggle transitioning from undergraduate coursework to professional Doctor of Pharmacy coursework, we aimed to understand metacognitive awareness changes for pharmacy students during the first professional semester. Method: First professional year pharmacy students were given a National Institute of Health approved 52-question Metacognitive Awareness Inventory (MAI) survey during orientation week at Husson University School of Pharmacy. In the MAI survey, one point is given for answering “yes” to each question. Students repeated the survey during the final week of their first semester in the Doctor of Pharmacy program. Results: Twenty students completed both the pre- and post-semester surveys. Overall, mean MAI scores increased by 5 points (38 to 43). The following domains saw increases in score over the study period: Declarative Knowledge (+0.3; 6 to 6.3), Procedural Knowledge (+0.3; 3.2 to 3.5), Conditional Knowledge (+0.7; 3.9 to 4.6), Information Management (+0.8; 7.1 to 7.9), Comprehension Monitoring (+0.6; 5 to 5.6), and Evaluation (+0.5; 3 to 3.5). Planning (-0.35; 4.95 to 4.6) and Debugging Strategies (-0.18; 4.58 to 4.4) were the only domains that saw a decrease in score over the study period. Conclusion: MAI scores changed as a whole and within each domain. Data collected from this study can be used to inform future metacognitive research for pharmacy students entering the doctoral phase of their programs.Publication FOR INDIVIDUALS WITH CHRONIC PAIN, WHAT ARE THE EFFECTS OF EFFECTIVE EMOTIONAL REGULATION COMPARED TO INEFFECTIVE REGULATION?(2025-04-17) Usher, Alexis; Bedi, SarahChronic pain is a debilitating issue that oftentimes leads to negative emotional regulation strategies that affect the psychological state of the person with chronic pain. The consequences of this type of pain extend more than just physical pain and limitations. Chronic pain can lead to psychological issues such as anxiety and depression. There is also an economic impact including loss of workdays and healthcare bills. The clinical issue in this study is the impact of emotional regulation on chronic pain and chronic pain management. Emotional regulation focuses on managing the emotional state and how to manage and change the negative emotional regulation that can lead to an increase in pain and negative coping strategies. The study focuses on whether emotional regulation can reduce pain perception and improve coping compared to ineffective regulation. The usefulness of evidence-based practice (EBP) in nursing is seen in this study as it promotes the use of research findings and their application in the clinical setting. The research in this study suggests that non-pharmacological interventions, such as emotional regulation strategies (mindfulness and cognitive behavioral therapy), can help to reduce pain intensity and improve the psychological state of patients with chronic pain. When in the clinical setting strategies that can be implemented right away can be deep breathing, practicing mindfulness meditation, and what cognitive therapy would look like. This intervention can be put in place during the education on pain management or when a patient is experiencing severe pain.Publication THE EFFECTS OF CHEST PHYSIOTHERAPY AND PHYSICAL ACTIVITY ON EXERCISE TOLERANCE IN CHILDREN WITH CYSTIC FIBROSIS(2025-04-17) Barton, Breanne; Bedi, SarahCystic fibrosis (CF) affects the daily life of children drastically through the types of treatment they have to complete each day. Many children complete chest physiotherapy (CPT) as their primary form of treatment for this disease. Other children will also complete cough/deep breathing exercise or different forms of physical activity. This study looks at whether exercise tolerance in the pediatric CF population can be increased when they take part in CPT and aerobic exercises combined versus CPT alone. This study found that exercise tolerance did not increase significantly when aerobic exercises were added to the treatment regimen. Although exercise tolerance was not improved, other aspects did such as overall wellbeing, increasing sputum clearance, improved oxygen saturation, and motivation. Researchers also found that children enrolled in a monitored exercise program which helped to instill accountability and motivation in pediatric CF clients. Many different aspects of CF children's lives can be improved through a monitored exercise program, but should not be the primary treatment for this population.Publication WORKSHOP SPRING 2025: LEFT WITH THE BONES(2025-04-17) Ulichny, Ryan; Tanguay, Zach; Arruda, Bailey; LaPrade, Charles; Siegl-Flahive, Isabella; Lowry, Ryan; Murphy, Mickey; Welch, FranklinThe Spring capstone class for the Video program at Husson University decided to make a short film, based on a story written by one of its students. The film was recorded on campus over the last 2 months and included numerous actors and locations. The students are estimating a finish run time of about 12 minutes and are hoping to debut it on May 1st at the Gracie Theater. The class was made up of 8 seniors, each taking the lead on a certain position, but also assisting on all the other positions as needed. The team looked like this: Director: Zach Tanguay Producer: Bailey Arruda Writing: Zach Tanguay Editing: Charles LaPrade Lead Camera: Ryan Ulichny Asst. Camera: Mickey Murphy Asst Camera: Nicole Toth Lead Audio: Ryan Lowry Audio Asst: Nicole Toth Lead Lighting: Isabella Siegl-FlahivePublication BEYOND CHEATING: CULTIVATING AI LITERACY THROUGH WRITING AND ASSESSMENT FRAMEWORKS(2025-04-17) Roderick, RyanAs generative AI technologies become increasingly integrated into educational environments, it is essential to consider how they shape human learning, creativity, and decision-making. While generative AI presents significant opportunities for augmenting knowledge creation, it also introduces challenges around ethical use, assessment, and pedagogy. To address these complexities, this poster presentation focuses on the evolving concept of AI Literacy—a broad and multifaceted skill set that includes prompt engineering, human-AI co-creation, ethical AI engagement, and AI-augmented higher order thinking. Drawing on frameworks from rhetoric and composition studies, I define AI Literacy as a social and rhetorical competency: the ability to critically interact with AI systems, understand their embedded biases, and navigate their use within specific contexts. Rather than treating AI as a replacement for human cognition, I consider how it can supplement and extend it by building on Bloom’s Taxonomy. A widely adopted framework in educational assessment, Bloom’s Taxonomy offers a starting point for exploring how learners collaborate with AI through iterative prompting, evaluation, and adaptation. By examining these interactions, we uncover strategies for recognizing and cultivating AI Literacy in educational settings. This work aims to support educators in designing learning experiences that promote critical, ethical, and effective engagement with generative AI.Publication ENGAGING FIRST-GENERATION STUDENTS IN CHEMISTRY: RESILIENT AND INCLUSIVE APPROACHES IN HIGHER EDUCATION(2025-04-17) Wenting, HuThis poster presents strategies for creating equitable chemistry classrooms that engage first-generation students. It includes specific examples of inclusive practices and culturally relevant approaches, demonstrating how these methods can be integrated into lessons. Historically underserved students, such as first-generation college students and BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, People of Color) students, in STEM education, often lose interest in STEM fields due to barriers like isolation, inadequate preparation, and prejudice in STEM programs. Social psychology and sociology offer approaches to addressing these challenges. Social psychology typically focuses on individual-level factors such as student engagement, belonging, and achievement, while sociology emphasizes the broader, systemic forces, such as race, gender, and class inequalities that affect STEM education. To address these issues, focusing on "meso-level" interventions, which operate between individual and macro-level (structural) factors, can be a useful solution. These interventions, particularly in faculty and peer instructor development, can help reduce inequalities by addressing both the systemic influences and individual experiences in STEM education. This is especially true in college education of Chemistry, one of the most challenging science subjects for many STEM students. Inclusive pedagogy, which encourages instructors to reflect on the historical and sociological influences on teaching, is a key tool for faculty development because they facilitate a supportive, inclusive environment for minoritized and First-Generation students. Resilient and inclusive interventions and approaches of faculty can interrupt the cycle of inequality in chemistry education, improving student achievement and ultimately influencing broader systemic change. They include multiple aspects such as effectively engaging students and incorporate inclusive practices. For online chemistry education, it is critical to show students the enthusiasm of the faculty considering that there is less face-to-face interpersonal communication.Publication EFFECTS OF TASK-SWITCHING AND PROACTIVE CONTROL ON METATMEMORY REGULATION(2025-04-17) Hacker, JessicaPast researchers have proposed a relationship between cognitive control and metamemory and several studies have provided the most support for a relationship between task-switching and metamemory regulation. Nevertheless, the evidence has been correlational. To my knowledge, the present study was the first to include an experimental manipulation incorporating a dual-task that required task-switching within a feeling of knowing (FOK) paradigm to directly observe the effects of task-switching on FOK accuracy. Research on cognitive control has demonstrated that engaging in proactive cognitive control typically leads to better performance in cognitive tasks and that young adults are naturally biased to engage in proactive control. Furthermore, cognitive control styles can be manipulated through a variety of means. I had a secondary interest in participants' metamemory awareness. Particularly if knowledge of task demands would lead participants to study word pairs longer in the dual-task block study phase relative to the single-task block study phase. The sample consisted of 191 healthy young adults (Mage = 19.34, SD = 1.57). I predicted that task switching would decrease FOK accuracy as well as the ability to engage in proactive control. These hypotheses were supported; however, study duration did not differ between the single and dual-task blocks. Importantly, the present study provided empirical evidence for a relationship between task-switching and metamemory regulation and provided a basis for which to further investigate this relationship.Publication TREATING MORAL INJURY FOR THE MODERN WARRIOR WITH EAS (EQUINE ASSISTED SERVICES)(2025-04-17) Grant, Justin M.; Mahoney, Tara; Decker, Kimberley; Hacker, JessicaMoral Injury (MI) is a profound psychological and spiritual wound resulting from experiences that violate deeply held moral beliefs, often occurring in high-stakes situations involving a betrayal of what is right by a legitimate authority. For American military veterans, MI can stem from combat-related actions such as harming others, witnessing death, or failing to prevent morally distressing events. Left unaddressed, MI can lead to lasting emotional, cognitive, behavioral, spiritual, and social consequences. Equine Assisted Services (EAS) offers a promising approach to addressing MI by leveraging the innate characteristics of horses, which are highly attuned to human emotions and nonverbal cues. Research has demonstrated that equine interactions support emotional regulation and facilitate trust, self-awareness, and connection—key elements in moral repair. The process of moral repair focuses on restoring integrity, addressing grief, making amends, and rebuilding hope and trust. By engaging with horses in a structured and supportive environment, veterans can experience a unique form of nonjudgmental acceptance that fosters healing and resilience. Studies suggest that therapeutic riding and Chaplain-enabled Equine Assisted Activities may be particularly effective in treating MI among veterans, given the significant overlap between MI and PTSD symptoms. Through equine interactions, veterans can reconnect with their values, work through moral dilemmas, and rebuild their sense of self and purpose. This presentation will explore best practices in EAS for treating MI, emphasizing ethical considerations for both horse and human. It will also address the stigma surrounding MI and highlight the importance of expanding awareness and access to collaborative therapeutic interventions for those who have served and still served. By integrating EAS into active duty and veteran care, we can offer a compassionate, effective pathway toward healing, moral reconciliation, and renewed hope for those affected by the invisible wounds of war.Publication ARE YOU TIRED? AN INTERVENTION FOR CENTRALIZED FATIGUE BASED ON PAIN SCIENCE – A PILOT STUDY(2025-04-17) Burgio, Chiara; Davis, Michaela; Grinnell, Emily; Perez, Leonardo; Robichaud, Grace; Steinbarger, KimberlyIntroduction: Fatigue is a debilitating condition affecting up to 80% of individuals with inflammatory rheumatic diseases, with severe fatigue impacting up to 42% of this population. Despite its prevalence and significance, fatigue remains under-addressed in clinical practice, especially in patients with centralized fatigue, a condition where sensory input is amplified across multiple systems. Recent evidence suggests that centralized fatigue, like centralized pain, may benefit from interventions grounded in pain science principles. This proposed study aims to evaluate the feasibility of a Pain Neuroscience Education (PNE)-based intervention in managing fatigue. Methods: Five adults were recruited for this pilot study. Adults aged 18 and older, both healthy and those with chronic diseases, were recruited from the local area. Exclusion criteria included children and individuals with sensory deficits in the hands. Participants received baseline assessments using the Chalder Fatigue Scale, Central Sensitization Inventory, and Wind-up Ratio (WUR), a test for centralized sensitivity. They then participated in an educational session focused on understanding fatigue and central sensitization, delivered by investigators blinded to their survey results. Following the session, participants were contacted at 4 weeks for follow-up, and reassessed at 8 weeks using the same measures. Discussion/Conclusion: The proposed study has good feasibility with a few modifications. It was difficult to recruit participants in person and coordinate the three touchpoints on a consistent timeline, therefore the measurement data is incomplete. The authors recommendation is to drop the only in person, non-survey measure, the wind up ratio. Without this measure, the entire study can be completed online, which will make recruitment and scheduling easier. This intervention holds potential for improving non-pharmacological treatment options for fatigue, particularly in individuals with chronic inflammatory conditions, where fatigue often limits daily functioning. The eventual results may offer a novel approach to managing fatigue through education based on pain science principles.Publication ENHANCING CANCER SURVIVORSHIP EDUCATION: A COLLABORATIVE WORKSHOP APPROACH TO ONCOLOGY REHABILITATION(2025-04-17) Alley, Mikaela; Boy, Virginia; Cailler, Taylor; Giles, Ben; Marter, Marissa; McCannell, Jessica; Strickler, Julia; Bochynski, Jennifer; Slike, MichellePurpose: As the number of individuals diagnosed with cancer continues to rise, the need for physical therapy intervention to support physical and mental well-being is becoming increasingly important. Seven doctor of physical therapy students and two physical therapy educators created two educational sessions on oncology topics for the community in Bangor, ME. Goals were to improve student knowledge in oncology topics and provide education to the community regarding the benefits of oncology rehabilitation to improve quality of life. Description: Students developed learning objectives and presentations utilizing learning theories, including: connectivism, constructivism, and andragogy to design two workshops. These workshops included presentations with an incorporation of active learning activities. Topics were determined based on community needs and included: an introduction to oncology rehabilitation, cancer related fatigue, exercise, cancer related pain, lymphedema, chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy, and mental health. These evidence-based workshops were available in-person and remotely via Zoom. Assessment of the learning experience included a participant pretest and post-test and a satisfaction survey. Outcomes: 16 participants attended with two participants attending both presentations. 87% of the participants improved their score from pretest to post-test. The remaining 13% had the same score. Overall, participants felt each workshop was highly organized and reported satisfaction with the material and its relevance to their everyday lives. Participants were also satisfied with the hands-on learning activities. Importance and Future Considerations: Participation in these workshops brought awareness to cancer survivors and caregivers on the benefits of PT rehabilitation. DPT students benefited from this project by growing their knowledge of oncology rehabilitation and their ability to provide patient education. Based on the research outcomes, cancer survivors may benefit from additional education regarding their condition management. Through hands-on workshops, cancer survivors may be more satisfied and prepared to manage their conditions.Publication DIFFERENTIAL LPS BINDING TO DIABETIC AND CONTROL HUMAN FIBROBASTS SUGGESTS MECHANISM FOR HIGH LEVELS OF INTERLEUKIN-8 EXPRESSION(2025-04-17) Harriman, Katelyn; Lindblad, WilliamIt is known that wound healing in the diabetic person is impaired and is characterized by excessive inflammation. However, the underlying mechanism(s) contributing to this heightened inflammatory response remain largely unknown. Previous studies from this laboratory, and others, have shown that fibroblasts can secrete pro-inflammatory mediators in response to exposure to lipopolysaccharide (LPS), a known inducer of inflammation. Further, fibroblasts obtained from type I diabetic individuals (GM01842) show significantly enhanced secretion of pro-inflammatory mediators compared to non-diabetic control cells (GM23973). This study had two primary aims, namely to investigate whether this increased secretion is due to elevated expression of CD14/TLR4 receptors, and whether LPS binding correlates with the expression of pro-inflammatory interleukin-8 (IL-8) versus extracellular matrix protein type I collagen (COL1A1). Non-transformed human dermal fibroblasts from the Coriell Cell Repository were maintained under standard culture conditions. Cell binding conditions were optimized (temperature, time, and ligand concentration) for binding Alexa488-labelled LPS, and flow cytometry was used to quantify LPS binding. mRNA levels for COL1A1 and IL-8 were determined by RT-PCR using Bio-Rad SYP qPCR kits. Binding of LPS to GM01872 was shown to be dose dependent with 500 ng providing a significant increase in cell fluorescence. Of note, exposure of GM23973 cells to this LPS content suppressed fluorescence suggesting that the environment of the CD14 receptor may be altered. Given prior results and from the current study, IL-8 expression in GM01872 cells was significantly higher than GM23973 and whereas expression of COL1A1 was at non-treated levels. These findings provide additional insights into the dysregulated inflammation observed in diabetic wound healing. CD14/TLR4 binding environments may be altered to facilitate higher levels of pro-inflammatory gene expression by cells that have experienced the hyperglycemic state of diabetes. These data offer new targets for therapeutic intervention.Publication EVIDENCE-BASED PRACTICE IN SCHOOL-BASED OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY-GUIDELINES FOR PRACTICE.(2025-04-17) Bylund, Naomi; Gerritsen, Amy; Lee, Hannah; Warren, Hannah; Howland, KateyThis project was created in response to the Maine Department of Education’s request for an exploration of the literature surrounding evidence-based practices in school-based occupational therapy. A review of the literature is the first step in developing guidelines for occupational therapists in Maine. As education models evolve, there is a growing need for structured, evidence-informed approaches to service delivery. The authors analyzed the literature using a level of evidence framework in order to provide a comprehensive overview of best practices. 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). To conduct the examination of literature, the authors (with the guidance of stakeholders) identified and categorized five key components in school-based practice; Response to Intervention (RTI), Universal Design for Learning (UDL), workload versus caseload models, push-in/pull-out service delivery, and interprofessional collaboration. Studies in each area were examined, rated, and a summary provided. In addition, the authors created a literature table with embedded resources offering practitioners in the state of Maine an easy to read guide to understand the evidence surrounding each component of service delivery. The findings emphasize an importance for integrating occupational therapy interventions within general education to enhance accessibility and effectiveness. In collaboration with the Maine Department of Education, this project aims to provide valuable resources and guidelines to assist in promoting evidence-based models of occupational therapy service delivery in schools. The authors of this project will be presenting their findings and project to the Maine Department of Education and occupational therapy practitioners in the state of Maine. Hissong, A., Lape, J., Bailey, D. (2015) Bailey’s Research for the Health Professional (3rd ed). F.A Davis Company