2020

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Intermuscular Lipoma: A Case Report
(2020) Fisher, Cara; Bilbao, Jorge
ABSTRACT: Background: Lipomas are the most common type of soft-tissue tumors. Superficial lipomas account for about 50% of all soft-tissue tumors and are usually found in the upper back, neck, proximal extremities, and abdomen. Deep-seated lipomas are far less common and usually found in the lower extremity, trunk, shoulder, and upper extremity. Case Presentation: In our study we report a case of a deep-seated, intermuscular lipoma with a rare location in the erector spinae musculature of the lower back. This mass was found during a routine dissection of a 68-year-old male cadaver and it serves to expand knowledge on the anatomical aspects of rare intermuscular lipoma locations. On gross examination, the lipomatous mass was seemingly circumscribed with a uniform, yellowish adipose color, lobulated surface, and soft consistency. Histological examination exhibited a discrete mass of uniform, mature adipocytes, which are clearly delineated from the surrounding musculature. Conclusions: These findings are diagnostic of a well-circumscribed intermuscular lipoma. It is important to note that these lesions are benign and have no metastatic potential. Knowledge of rare intermuscular lipoma locations is necessary for clinicians and surgeons during diagnostic and therapeutic procedures. It is necessary that current clinical guidelines take rare variants into consideration.
Efficacy of the Fascial Distortion Model in Treating Hand Injuries: A Case Study in Manual Therapy
(2020) Qureshi, Sana; Hall, Marshall
Background: Fascia is a network of fibrous tissue that surrounds and connects even the smallest structures in our body together. It is flexible, molding to the body's motion and tensions. Any twist, wrinkle or tear in the fascia can distort the tissue and surrounding structures. These changes in the fascial tissue may result in pain and limited motion. The Fascial Distortion Model (FDM) has identified six different fascial disruptions which can occur in isolation or combination with each other. This model aids in the evaluation and treatment of known fascial patterns to restore proper function to the tissue and decrease pain. Case information: In this case a 27-year-old male presented with acute pain in the left hand one day following a volleyball injury. On pinch grip strength testing, the patient exhibited about half the strength in the injured hand, relative to the non-injured extremity. The right hand was treated by applying the fascial distortion model resulting in decreased pain, improved motion and doubling of pinch grip strength. Conclusion: FDM is relatively new compared to other medical and manual therapies. This has limited the amount of evidence to support the efficacy of the model. In addition, due to the possible discomfort during treatment, there has been criticism on the use of the model in treating patients. This case provides an example of how FDM can be valuable in treating acute injuries by decreasing pain and allowing for a return in function and strength.
Early Recurrent Granulosa Cell Neoplasm: a Case Report
(2020) Moorhead, Ava
A 61 year-old woman who has a history of a granulosa cell neoplasm (GCT), removed 1 year prior, presents to the office with increasing abdominal girth and severe limitations in bowel habits. She had been chronically constipated with difficulty walking and transferring secondary to pelvic and abdominal pain. Her primary neoplasm was excised at 15cm in conjunction with a total abdominal hysterectomy and bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy. Upon imaging in August 2019, a new mass was seen measuring at 15cm with septations and loculations; suspicious for a possible recurrent tumor. Surgical excision was planned and executed without morcellation. Extensive carcinomatosis of the small and large bowel were seen, necessitating 2 bowel resections that were successful but leaving the patient with a temporary ileostomy. To date, she has been inconsistent with follow-up and discussion of the necessity of chemotherapy is pending. This patient is unusual in that her GCT was malignant and recurrent, but also the speed at which it returned, only 1.5 years later; both factors being unexpected for this type of tumor.
An application of Markov chain Monte Carlo (MCMC) methods in alcohol research: item parameter recovery for the Protective Behavioral Strategies Survey
(2020) De La Torre, Jimmy; Mun, Eun-Young; Tan, Zhengqi
Purpose: This study was motivated by the measurement challenges of Project INTEGRATE, a large-scale synthesis study of aggregate data and individual participant data (IPD) from brief alcohol intervention trials for young adults. Methods: The present study utilized Markov chain Monte Carlo (MCMC) methods to help address the measurement challenges using the Protective Behavioral Strategies Survey. We aimed to recover item parameters for a two-parameter logistic item response theory (2PL-IRT) model. We tested the viability and feasibility of the custom-developed MCMC algorithm in R under study conditions that varied the number of items (J=5, 10, 20 and 40) and sample size (N=300, 500 and 1000). For each condition, 25 replications were conducted. We evaluated the accuracy of parameter recovery based on the mean bias and root mean square error (RMSE). Results: The MCMC algorithm for the 2-PL IRT model adequately recovered item parameters: for J=5 items and N=300, the bias and RMSE of the item discrimination parameter were -.039 and .073, respectively; and of the item severity parameter were .033 and .065, respectively. As the number of items and sample size increased, both item parameters were more accurately estimated. Conclusions: We presented the outcomes of MCMC methods for a 2PL-IRT model in the recovery of item parameters as the first step toward obtaining commensurate latent trait scores for participants from multiple studies and ensuring the same data interpretation across multiple studies for IPD meta-analysis or integrative data analysis.
Exploring the Role of Extracellular Matrix Organization in the Progression of Chronic Low Back Pain
(2020) Ozguc, Fatma
PURPOSE: Chronic low back pain (CLBP) is the leading disability in the world, and novel approaches for more effective treatment of CLBP are warranted. Individual genetic differences in pain genes may explain the differences in pain perception. It has been recently found that the extracellular matrix organization is the most regulated pathway in inflammatory and neuropathic pain assays in mice. This project explores the role of ECM variability in the incidence and trajectory of CLBP. This project has two aims: 1) to identify low-risk and high-risk genotypes for ECM genes between two groups of participants, CLBP and chronic widespread pain (CWP), through a retrospective case-control study; and 2) to assess if the identified genetic risk factors are associated with longitudinal outcomes in pain intensity and quality of life through a cohort study. METHODS: Using genetic data from the PRECISION Pain Research Registry, single SNP, SNP-set, and epistasis analyses for ECM-related genes were run using PLINK and CASSI. Necessary adjustments for the covariates age, gender, and genetic ancestry were done. RESULTS: Epistasis relevant to chronicity of low back pain were identified in TNFBxPRTN3, VWFxMMP9, TNF xMMP13, and PRTN3xLILRA5 for African Americans. In non-Hispanic Whites, epistasis between VWFxMMP2, SPARCxMMP2, and VWFxELANE were significantly related to chronicity of low back pain. CONCLUSION: This study suggests that race/ethnicity specific interactions between variants in ECM-related genes may play an important role in progression of chronic low back pain and perhaps useful in formulating precision approaches to CLBP therapeutics.
Acute Page Kidney and Renal Vein Thrombosis Secondary to Post-Biopsy Subcapsular Hematoma
(2020) Olivencia-Yurvati, Albert; Mangin, William
Background: Major complications of percutaneous core needle biopsy are quite rare; however, renal transplant patients, especially those experiencing graft rejection, are high-risk for graft loss as a result. Renal subcapsular hematomas have the potential to compress the renal parenchyma and cause a secondary HTN, a process called acute Page kidney (APK). These hematomas can also compress the renal vascular, causing renal vein thrombosis. Case Presentation: A 63-year-old medically non-compliant African American female was admitted to the hospital for biopsy confirmed AMR. She underwent a deceased donor renal transplantation 3 years prior for ESRD secondary to DM and HTN. On hospital day 8, she developed RLQ abdominal pain over her transplant site. Her Hgb dropped from 7.8 to 7.1, her BP spiked at 183/78, and she ceased making urine. Ultrasound showed a large perinephric hematoma, which was collaborated by CT. Repeat labs revealed further decreased Hgb (6.2) and increased Cr (4.2). During surgery, a small active bleeding site was found on the biopsy side of the kidney after evacuation of the hematoma. Duplex U/S showed reversed arterial flow, minimal parenchymal perfusion, and no renal vein flow. The allograft was deemed non-viable and nephrectomy was performed. Patient was discharged in stable condition on hospital day 14 with follow-up for outpatient HD. Conclusions: This case highlights some rare complications of renal biopsy and serves as a reminder for practitioners to keep a low-threshold of suspicion when dealing with high-risk patients, such as those with AMR.
Urine sample-derived cerebral organoids suitable for studying neurodevelopment and neuroregeneration
(2020) Wang, Yu-chieh; Lin, Victor; Hu, Jiangnan
Purpose: Human cerebral organoids (COs) have yielded significant discoveries regarding developmental biology, disease mechanisms and pharmacological responses in the central nervous system. Here, we intend to establish cerebral organoids suitable for modeling brain development and neuroregeneration based on somatic cells that are isolated noninvasively. Methods: The development of such organoids began with the collection of urinary epithelial cells (UECs) from human urine samples, followed by reprograming them into induced pluripotent stem cells (hUEC-iPSCs), which were further used for the generation of COs. To comprehensively characterize the cellular and molecular features of our COs, we examined samples at different developmental time points in vitro. To check their survival ability and the neuroregenerative potential, the COs were implanted into immunodeficient mouse brains and further examined. Results: The hUEC-iPSC-developed COs exhibit normal development with neurogenesis and maturation of neuronal cells forming brain layers. These COs produce neurotropic and anti-inflammatory factors that are presumably critical for neurogenesis and neural repair. Several metalloproteases that may facilitate cell migration and microenvironment rearrangement are also present. After transplantation into the mouse cerebrum, vascularization quickly develops in the implanted COs, suggesting their viability and ability to interact with the environment. Conclusions: Our work begins to reveal the promise of generating personalized COs from cells that are isolated from urine samples. With further adaptation, this human CO platform could form a unique and personalized model for the investigation of neural development and facilitate the innovation of novel therapies for treating neurological diseases.
Does mental health status differ by alcohol use for married versus unmarried young adult females?
(2020) Madison,; Walters, Tess; Norman, John; Womack, Veda; Hartos, Jessica; Branham, Tyler
Purpose: Mental health issues are one of the leading causes of disability and excessive drinking can lead to many health risks. The purpose of this study is to assess whether mental health status differs by alcohol use in married versus unmarried young adult females. Methods: This cross-sectional analysis used 2017 data from BRFSS for young adult females ages 18-44 in California(N=1793), Colorado(N=1321), Kansas(N=2932), Texas(N=1755), and Utah(N=2110). Adjusted logistic regression analysis by state was used to determine the relationship between mental health and alcohol use by marital status while controlling for health-related, demographic, and socioeconomic factors. Results: About half of the participants reported 30 days of good mental health in the past 30 days (45-52%) and over half reported alcohol use (53-67%) with the exception of Utah where about one-fourth of participants reported alcohol use (28%). Adjusted statistics results indicated mental health status was inversely related to alcohol use for married young adult females; and was inversely related to tobacco use and positively related to physical health status for both groups. Conclusion: Overall, mental health status was related to alcohol use in married but not related in unmarried young adult females. Primary care providers should take special note of married young adult females when screening mental health and alcohol use. Education is recommended on the importance of mental health and the negative effects of excessive alcohol use. In addition, mental health was related to smoking and physical health in married and unmarried young adult females.
Knowledge, attitudes, and beliefs about contraception and pregnancy among women experiencing homelessness: A theory-informed systematic review
(2020) Thompson, Erika; Spence, Emily; Garg, Ashvita; Galvin, Annalynn
Purpose: Women comprise 39% of people experiencing homelessness, and the number of individual women experiencing homelessness has increased by 3% since 2017. Women who are homeless experience unintended pregnancy at considerably higher rates compared to the general U.S. population. The purpose of the systematic review was to summarize pregnancy prevention and contraception knowledge, attitudes, and beliefs among women experiencing homelessness. Methods: Per protocol, qualitative and quantitative articles published before September 2019 were identified with PubMed, EBSCOHost, and Embase. Inclusion criteria were peer-reviewed articles; U.S.-based observational studies; measured knowledge, attitudes, and beliefs related to contraceptive use for avoiding pregnancy; and sampled women experiencing homelessness. Results were aggregated and thematically analyzed within the context of the Information-Motivation-Behavioral Skills model. Results: After an initial search result of 407 articles, 7 articles met inclusion criteria. Many women reported past use of contraception, but consistency, type, and preferences varied between studies. Despite most women understanding where to get contraception, many had misconceptions about how various contraception methods worked. Personal experience with contraception and dislike of side effects were salient personal motivational factors influencing contraceptive use, as well as the power and social dynamics in their relationship with their partners, peers, and health care providers. Numerous shelter-related and clinic-related contraception barriers were identified that uniquely affected this population. Conclusion: With this consolidated information provided by a systematic review, future interventions can promote theory-informed, non-coercive contraception decision-making with better access to preferred contraception methods for women experiencing homelessness.
Acute Coronary Syndrome with Chief Complaint of Arm Pain: An Atypical Case Presentation
(2020) Huber, Trevor; Puia, Justin
Introduction: Typically, Acute Coronary Syndrome (ACS) present with "pressure like, squeezing" substernal chest pain, with possible radiation to left jaw, arm, neck, and upper back. Additionally, autonomic symptoms, like diaphoresis, nausea and vomiting are also common. In the following ACS case, symptoms include localized left arm pain, mild muscle ache on the left chest, and mild dizziness without the typical symptoms of pressure-like chest pain, nausea, vomiting, or diaphoresis. Presentation: A 49-year-old male with history of 4 pack-years of tobacco smoke use presented to urgent care with left arm pain. He thought the pain to be related to history of left arm fracture as a child. This episode of left arm pain lasted 4 hours and did not improve with acetaminophen. He also reported a "muscle ache" over the left chest, and slight lightheadedness. He denied sub-sternal pressure, shortness of breath, nausea, vomiting, or diaphoresis. Initial EKG at urgent care showed lateral T-wave changes and point of care (POC) troponin test was 0.13 ng/ml. POC Troponin-I at hospital ED was 0.76 ng/ml. Cardiac catheterization revealed occlusion of 3 coronary arteries and 3 drug-eluting stents were subsequently placed. Conclusion: Patients with atypical presentation of ACS that are not initially diagnosed with ACS have greater morbidity and mortality. Keep atypical symptoms of ACS in mind when evaluating patients. High sensitivity POC Troponin I could reduce diagnostic time with potential for major benefits for patients and emergency departments.
A Rare Case of Esophageal Stenosis in Behcet's Disease
(2020) Faisal, Annum
Background: Behcet's Disease (BD) is a multi-organ inflammatory disease characterized by aphthous oral ulcers, ocular manifestations and genital lesions. Various environmental and genetic factors contribute to the pathogenesis of BD, however the specific etiology remains unclear. Case:A 71-year-old female with a history of BD, pharyngeal ulcers, esophageal stenosis and tracheostomy presented to the emergency department with concerns of food being stuck in her throat for 4 days and inability to swallow. She has a history of dysphagia for many years, but was tolerant of thin liquids and soft foods. BD management consists of chronic steroids and previous dilation with balloon tracheoplasty. She is aphonic due to aphthous ulceration of the larynx. Fiberoptic nasal endoscopy and esophagogastroduodenoscopy were attempted with findings included a surgically absent larynx, unidentifiable upper esophageal sphincter and post-surgical scarring. These explorative studies were later aborted due to failure of scope advancement. A neck CT illustrated present trach and medially displaced carotid AA bilaterally without frank masses. Following recommendation of clinical swallow examination, contrast material passed into the pharynx and entered the upper portion of the airway; it appeared to remain in the glottis above the vocal folds. Patient attempted to swallow with minimal hyoid movement, however, a full swallow reflex was never achieved. Nutritional support with PEG tube was recommended and placed with no complications. Patient was subsequently discharged. Conclusion:This case illustrates the unique presentation of esophageal stenosis secondary to BD and warrants further investigation of the pharyngolaryngeal involvement in disease classification and progression.
An Assessment of Non-Consensual Sexual Experiences Among Men
(2020) Griner, Stacey; Aiken, Julia
Social media movements exposed the routine sexual victimization of women; however, the stories of male sexual assault survivors are still left largely unheard and untold. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimated that 1 in 6 men experience childhood sexual abuse, and 1 in 21 men have been forced to penetrate someone else during their lifetime. However, little research explores the individual-level characteristics associated with sexual victimization of men. This study assessed the sociodemographic factors of men that report non-consensual sexual experiences. We analyzed data from the 2011-2017 National Survey of Family Growth, a cross-sectional, nationally representative survey. The sample was delimited to those who reported any type of sexual activity and were between the age 18 to 49 years (N=11,294). The sample was stratified into sexually victimized and non-sexually victimized to perform weighted frequencies and Chi-Square tests amongst sociodemographic variables. In this sample, 31.0% of men reported experiencing a non-consensual experience. Men that reported victimization debuted sexually at a significantly younger age (M=16.8 years, SE=0.22) compared to non-victimized men (M=17.2, SE=0.22) (p< .0001). Significant differences in victimization appeared by race/ethnicity (p< .0001), childhood family structure (p< .0001), percent of federal poverty level (p< .0001), level of education (p< .0001), and sexual orientation (p< .0001). Our findings suggest that men experience a high prevalence of non-consensual sexual encounters, belying the cultural silence on male experiences of sexual violence. These estimates of demographic inequities can inform targeted interventions for survivors.
SURGICAL MANAGEMENT OF A LEFT UPPER EXTREMITY ARTERIOVENOUS FISTULA PSEUDOANEURYSM: A CASE REPORT
(2020) Olivencia-Yurvati, Albert; Dhume, Mahima
Background: An arteriovenous fistula (AVF) is a constructed vascular anastomosis and the first line of vascular access for most patients undergoing dialysis. AVFs need months to mature and the high pressure may lead to local complications such as formation of pseudoaneurysms. Urgent evaluation and repair is needed if the pseudoaneurysm is at risk of rupture. Case Information: A 71-year-old female with an extensive past medical history including ESRD and hypertension presented to the vascular surgery clinic for evaluation of a bleeding left-sided distal AVF pseudoaneurysm measuring 2.4 x 2.1 x 4.5 cm on ultrasound. She elected to have an arteriovenous graft revision and repair of the fistula pseudoaneurysm. In the operating room, a semicircle tunneler was utilized and a polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) graft was implanted. The pseudoaneurysm was repaired by ligation technique. The anastomosis was created first in the venous limb and then the arterial limb and the pseudoaneurysm was excluded by repair to allow for thrombosis. At her two week post-operative evaluation in the clinic, the patient appeared to have recovered well. Conclusions: A pseudoaneurysm arising as a complication from chronic hemodialysis is most commonly from routine needle insertion at the site and can be prevented by rotating the access needle during dialysis. The first line non-invasive recommendation is an ultrasound guided manual compression at the neck of the pseudoaneurysm and surveillance. If there is a risk of rupture, guidelines recommend revision of the AVF and emergency ligation, such as in this case report.
Examining Tarrant County Resources for Attention Deficit and Hyperactivity Disorder
(2020) Heinrich, Carl; Guerra, Alejandro; Reeves, Kirk; Zhou, Jason; Schmidt, Brendan
Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD), known officially as Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), is a highly prevalent behavioral disorder affecting about ten percent of children and adolescents between the ages of two and seventeen and is predominantly seen in males (2:1 predominance). The disorder is diagnosed clinically and may include inattention, hyperactivity, or a combination of these two aspects that can affect the child's daily life. ADHD is a disorder of particular concern because it often presents with an additional mental, emotional, or behavioral disorder and, more commonly, may severely impede the scholarly and social performance of persons it affects. We examined multiple resources in the Tarrant County area utilizing PubMed and local resource catalogues. Our resources were divided into three major categories: those that assist with diagnosis of ADHD, those that assist with treatment of ADHD, and those that support persons with ADHD. Additionally, multiple barriers to care were identified. We found that these resources, while freely available and easy to find, may present additional barriers to care including strict requirements for use, physical distance, and societal misconceptions. Along with addressing barriers to care, we also recommend increasing public awareness of these programs.
Analyzing Sound Levels Produced by a Choral Ensemble During a Choral Concert Event
(2020) Taylor, Meghan
Purpose: Efforts to quantify the sound levels produced by instrumental ensemble-based instructional activities and understand the role of the conductor in these activities has a robust history. However, these factors have not been widely studied in choral ensemble-based instructional activities. Additionally, the World Health Organization's current estimation that 1.1 billion young people are at risk for noise-induced hearing loss, there is a need for investigating sound levels produced by choral ensembles. The purpose of this study was to quantify and compare the sound characteristics associated with a choral concert event. Methods: This study examined the UNT A Cappella Choir's spring concert event in the Winspear Performance Hall. Sound measurements were taken using two noise dosimeter microphones; one microphone was positioned downstage and another in the choir loft. An aggregate view database and a time series database were created to analyze the data collected during each aspect of the choral event. Results: Obtaining temporal sound measurements during this type of activity is possible regardless of microphone placement. Variability in the sound measurements revealed that the ensemble was able to sing more musically while reducing their overall risk. Conclusion: This research presents a novel understanding of the conductor's role in a choral ensemble-based instructional activity for reducing the risks associated with NIHL. Additionally, this research determined that temporal views of sound can be obtained from multiple vantage points in the room, making it easier for researchers to unobtrusively obtain this data during these events.
Posterior Parietal Pleural Plaques: A Case Report
(2020) Fisher, Cara; Parkinson, Ryan; Sharaf, Abrahim; McCreight, Hannah; Barnes, Kalan
Background: Pleural plaques are accumulations of hyalinized collagen fibers in the parietal pleura. These deposits are considered pathognomonic for asbestos exposure. Macrophage phagocytosis of short asbestos fibers promotes increased collagen production by fibroblasts. The exact pathogenesis of pleural plaques is unknown, but it is presumed that they form secondary to the lungs attempt to remove asbestos fibers from the pleural spaces through lymphatic channels located exclusively in the parietal pleura. Pleural plaques are most often identified via radiographic imaging and physical images of these structures are rare. Case information: During routine dissection of a 76-year-old male cadaver, multiple pleural plaques were discovered on the posterior parietal pleura of the chest cavity bilaterally. Of note, the pleural plaques discovered were found more medially than usually reported in the literature and the pleural plaques seen in the right posterior chest cavity extended much higher, to the 3rd rib, than is usually reported in the literature. Conclusions: Pleural plaques act as markers of asbestos exposure and can, in rare instances, cause chest pain, coughing, and dyspnea. Patients who have been exposed to asbestos are at increased risk for malignant mesothelioma, lung cancer, and asbestosis. Identification and confirmation of pleural plaque presence may aid patients in seeking compensation for asbestos exposure. Clinical findings of pleural plaques may indicate need for further testing and patient monitoring. This report aims to broaden awareness of a sign of asbestos exposure and inform clinicians about patient populations in which further health surveillance is warranted.
Understanding Postpartum Depression through System Thinking
(2020) Ajoku, Brittany
Purpose: Postpartum depression (PPD) is a lingering and potentially debilitating condition that affects 8-20% of women in the United States. The consequences of untreated PPD include disruption of relationships and societal contributions, adverse impact on the development of her infant, and significant costs to the healthcare system. Due to the adverse consequences of untreated PPD, it is important to use a system thinking approach to understand complexity of the condition and how organizations can play unique roles in preventing and treating PPD. Methods: By using a web-based search with the search terms "postpartum depression" AND "resources" OR "organizations", 10 organizations that prevent and treat PPD were identified. These organization were then organized in a system map by the type of social support they provide. Results: Most organizations provided social support through informational support, either to solely clinicians or to clinicians and providers. The remaining organizations included organizations provided social support in the form of emotional support and instrumental support. Organizations that provided informational support often served as the foundation for guidelines for organizations that provided other kinds of support. Conclusion: Most organizations that address the complexity of PPD with social support align with secondary and tertiary level of prevention. Moving forward, more organizations are needed to focus on primary prevention.
The Effect of Dietary Loading on Structural Determinants of Force Production in the Rat Masseter
(2020) Menegaz, Rachel A.; Rossiter, Jeffrey
Purpose: Biomechanical loading associated with feeding is known to direct cranial bone growth, however less is known about its effects on masticatory muscle growth and performance. Peak muscle contractile forces are determined by a combination of factors including mass, fiber length, and fiber type. Here, we test the hypothesis that mechanically challenging diets increase the physiological cross-sectional area (PCSA), an estimate of maximum contractile force at tetanus, in the rat superficial masseter. Methods: Sprague-Dawley rats were raised on either a hard/tough (overuse) diet or a soft (underuse) diet (n=5/cohort). The superficial masseters were dissected and photographed using a trifocal stereo microscope, and muscle fiber length (6/individual) were measured using ImageJ. Muscle volumes were calculated from in-situ diffusible iodine-based contrast-enhanced µCT scans. PCSA was calculated using the formula Vm/Lf [muscle volume (cm3) / fiber length (cm)]. Results: Mean PCSA is greater in the overuse cohort than the underuse cohort (38.41 vs 35.09) however the results are not statistically significant (p=0.55) likely due to small sample size. The increase in PCSA for the overuse cohort is driven largely by muscle volume (432.24 vs 410.30 cm3, p=0.0.69) rather than fiber length (11.33 vs 12.35 cm, p=0.031). Conclusions: Mechanically challenging diets tend to be associated with greater masticatory muscle volumes and thus increased PCSA, however future studies with increased sample sizes are needed to verify these results. Previous work from our lab suggests postnatal changes in muscle fiber phenotype also contribute to increased muscle contractile forces during feeding.
Are alternatives to Bisphenol A associated with general and abdominal obesity in general US population?
(2020) Sumihiro, Suzuki; Igara Uche, Uloma
Purpose Bisphenol F (BPF) & bisphenol S (BPS) currently serve as alternatives to bisphenol A, an endocrine disrupting chemical in both consumer and commercial products. However, the safety of these chemicals is not confirmed as there are very limited studies on their effects on metabolic and physiological functions in humans. The purpose of the study is to examine whether these alternatives are associated with general and abdominal obesity in both U.S children/adolescents and adults using data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) 2013-2016. Methods A multinomial logistic regression was conducted to determine the association between BPF, BPS and obesity while controlling for behavioral, demographic and socioeconomic factors as well as urinary creatinine levels. A logistic regression was also conducted to evaluate the association between BPF, BPS and abdominal obesity while controlling for the same covariates. Results BPF concentrations were significantly associated with overweight {OR=1.272(95% CI: 1.063, 1.522)} and obesity {OR=1.208(95% CI: 1.003, 1.455)} in children/adolescents as well as obesity {OR=1.108(95% CI: 1.004, 1.223)} and abdominal obesity {OR=1.117(95% CI: 1.001, 1.247)} among adults after adjusting for covariates. Conclusion This study showed that urinary concentrations of Bisphenol F were positively associated with overweight and obesity in U.S children/adolescents as well as obesity and abdominal obesity among U.S. adults. Thus, further investigation is needed on this chemical as it is possible that it may have an endocrine disrupting capability as Bisphenol A.
Effect of increased blood glucose on anti-cancer nanoparticle interactions with tissue
(2020) Kastellorizios, Michail; Mishra, Ina; Nguyen, Alexandra
Purpose: Little research has been conducted on liposomal drug delivery in pediatric diabetics and non-diabetics with cancer. Preliminary data demonstrates that increased liposomal interactions with collagen in the tumor's extracellular matrix affect tumor targeting. The goal of the present study was to understand the effect that glucose has on liposomes' interaction with collagen and its interference with the anti-cancer action of liposomal drugs in diabetic pediatric patients. Methods: Liposomes were formulated according to the Doxil molar ratio. Varying amounts of glucose, glycated albumin (GA), albumin, and liposomes were dissolved into phosphate-buffered saline (PBS) to make solutions representative of the mean pediatric hypoglycemic, normoglycemic, and hyperglycemic diabetic and non-diabetic patient. An Optical Contact Angle instrument quantified the interactions between liposomes and collagen by advancing and receding a drop of each solution onto human and rat collagen-coated slides. Results: The contact angle measured was lower in human collagen than rat collagen in the PBS and Liposomes samples. In samples with added glucose and albumin, the contact angle was lower in rat collagen than human collagen. Conclusions: Liposomes by themselves in PBS have a greater interaction with human collagen than rat collagen, but the addition of glucose, GA, and albumin reverses this trend so that liposomes have a greater interaction with rat collagen than human collagen. The protein's interactions also overpower the liposomes' interaction with collagen. Further investigation is necessary to determine if the presence of elevated glucose has a significant effect on how liposomes interact with collagen.

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