The Prevention of Catheter Associated Urinary Tract Infections by Implementing Noble-Metal Coated Urinary Catheters.

Catheter associated urinary tract infections, otherwise known as “CAUTI”, are one of the most frequent healthcare-associated infections. Some outcomes of CAUTI’s include increased mortality, prolonged hospital stay, as well as increased healthcare costs related to infections. (CDC, 2024). Urinary tract infections due to urinary catheterization had the highest number of infections, greater than 560,000, compared to other healthcare-associated infections. (CDC, 2024). Additionally, deaths associated with catheter associated urinary tract infections had estimates of over 13,000, with a mortality rate of 2.3%. (CDC, 2024). To combat the incidence of CAUTI in healthcare, noble metal alloy coated catheters were introduced as an alternative to catheters without noble metal alloy coating. The purpose of noble metal alloy coated catheters is to reduce the risk of bacterial colonization within the body system by acting against the biofilm over the indwelling catheter ((Kai-Larsen, Y. et al., 2021; Sun, Y. et al., 2020). Through analyzing research, results of studies on patients receiving short-term urinary catheterization had a positive outcome as a result of the usage of noble-metal alloy coating. In conclusion, the use of noble-metal alloy urinary catheters is an effective intervention in reducing bacteriuria and CAUTI in patients requiring short-term urinary catheterization. (Sun, Y. et al., 2020)

The Intersection of Autism and Poverty: Socioeconomic Status of Adults on the Spectrum

This study explores the relationship between Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and lower poverty status to assist in the understanding of socioeconomic challenges faced by adults on the spectrum. The purpose of this research is to investigate whether ASD is associated with an increased likelihood of experiencing poverty. Using an observational cross-sectional analysis of 2021 National Health Interview Child Survey data, we examined total combined family income and ASD diagnosis. The study included 5,134 participants of various races and socioeconomic statuses aged 2-17, 175 of which responded “Yes” to the question of ever receiving a diagnosis of ASD. The findings reveal a statistically significant positive correlation between ASD and poverty with a p-value of 0.024. These results could suggest systemic barriers, including limited access to education, employment, and various other support and treatment services. Future research should further focus specifically on adults diagnosed with ASD and include addressing policy reforms and improving access to the necessary support services needed for adults. Addressing these socioeconomic barriers is critical to fostering equity and enhancing the quality of life for individuals on the autism spectrum

Investing the impact of Cineole on Melanoma

Pharmaceutical ingredients have utilized naturally occurring small molecules of plants medicinally (2). 1,8-Cineole, also known as Eucalyptol, is a naturally derived compound found in eucalyptus, rosemary, and camphor laurel. 1,8-Cineole’s effect on melanoma and non-melanoma skin cancers and colon cancer exhibits inhibitory properties (4 and 5). Eucalyptol acts as an AhR inhibitor and delays tumor incidence and tumor number in UVB-induced SKH-1 mice while inhibiting COX-2 expression when applied topically (3 and 5). The anti-tumor mechanisms of eucalyptol are exhibited through the negative effect on the positive regulation of the cell cycle by reducing the expression of most genes in transcriptome sequencing and bioinformatic analysis with human neuroblastoma cells. This indicates that eucalyptol intervenes in cancer cell growth by inducing apoptosis and anti-proliferation (1). Our preliminary studies showed that 1,8-Cineole acts as a tumor suppressor in A375P cells using the migration of assay. Migration rate decreased after transfection in both 10 mM and 30 mM 1,8-Cineole 24, 48h, and 72h post scratch (P-values for 10 mM 0.29,0.004, 0.04 accordingly and 0.0001, 0.0001, and 0.002 for 30 mM, accordingly). 1. Gao K, Wu C, Li Y, Lu J, Jiang Y. Transcriptome Analysis Reveals the Anti-Tumor Mechanism of Eucalyptol Treatment on Neuroblastoma Cell Line SH-SY5Y. Neurochem Res. 2022 Dec;47(12):3854-3862. doi: 10.1007/s11064-022-03786-8. Epub 2022 Nov 4. Erratum in: Neurochem Res. 2022 Dec;47(12):3863. doi: 10.1007/s11064-022-03823-6. PMID: 36331666; PMCID: PMC9718713. 2. Hoch CC, Petry J, Griesbaum L, Weiser T, Werner K, Ploch M, Verschoor A, Multhoff G, Bashiri Dezfouli A, Wollenberg B. 1,8-cineole (eucalyptol): A versatile phytochemical with therapeutic applications across multiple diseases. Biomed Pharmacother. 2023 Nov;167:115467. doi: 10.1016/j.biopha.2023.115467. Epub 2023 Sep 9. PMID: 37696087. 3. Lee J, Ha SJ, Park J, Kim YH, Lee NH, Kim YE, Kim Y, Song KM, Jung SK. 1,8-cineole prevents UVB-induced skin carcinogenesis by targeting the aryl hydrocarbon receptor. Oncotarget. 2017 Nov 20;8(62):105995-106008. doi: 10.18632/oncotarget.22519. PMID: 29285309; PMCID: PMC5739696. 4. Murata S, Shiragami R, Kosugi C, Tezuka T, Yamazaki M, Hirano A, Yoshimura Y, Suzuki M, Shuto K, Ohkohchi N, Koda K. Antitumor effect of 1, 8-cineole against colon cancer. Oncol Rep. 2013 Dec;30(6):2647-52. doi: 10.3892/or.2013.2763. Epub 2013 Oct 1. PMID: 24085263. 5. Yoon YE, Jung YJ, Lee SJ. The Anticancer Activities of Natural Terpenoids That Inhibit Both Melanoma and Non-Melanoma Skin Cancers. Int J Mol Sci. 2024 Apr 17;25(8):4423. doi: 10.3390/ijms25084423. PMID: 38674007; PMCID: PMC11050645

Stress Management for Nurse Understaffing

I will be conducting research on a variety of ways to improve this issue and cultivate an approach to alleviate stress for nurses due to nurse understaffing, patient care technician understaffing, and float nurse uncertaint

Physical Activity Among Remote Workers

With the rise of remote and hybrid work environments, many individuals are experiencing increased sedentary behavior and decreased physical activity. This shift presents new challenges for maintaining health and wellness, as well as workplace engagement. Our project evaluates a range of programs designed to promote physical activity among remote workers, including virtual group exercise sessions, walking challenges, wellness app incentives, and partnerships offering discounted local gym memberships. By analyzing the effectiveness, accessibility, and sustainability of these initiatives, we aim to identify strategies that not only encourage movement but also foster a stronger sense of community and support within remote workforces. This evaluation provides insight into how employers can better support the physical and mental well-being of their remote employees through evidence-based, adaptable interventions

Essence Behind the Eyes Reflected In My Mirror

I chose to create a magazine of poems showcasing who I am as a person. It is called The Essence and this edition is titled Identity: Essence Behind the Eyes Reflected In My Mirror . I used pictures of me throughout different stages in my life, alongside the events, physical features, and mental/emotional traits I possess. This portfolio truly gives a snapshot of my identity as an English major, future English teacher, student, and person