Third
Annual Award Winners
2002-2003
This year, there were 36 submissions from 87
faculty members representing 14 academic units. President
Ray Ferrero, Jr., approved the awarding of 19 President's
Faculty Scholarship Awards for fiscal year 2002-2003. The
awards, totaling $89,719, were distributed to 46 faculty
members from 13 academic units. Combined with the matching
funds from the deans, the grand total of awards this year
was $179,438.
In the three-year history of the awards, 89 faculty members
have shared $341,984 in financial support of research and
scholarship at NSU. This is a remarkable accomplishment for
the university and fine testimonial to the Board of Trustees'
commitment to building quality programs at NSU.
Reviewer's Photo
E. Eugenie Hartmann, Ph.D. HPD College of Optometry
Cyril Blavo, D.O. HPD College of Osteopathic Medicine
Richard Sorkin, D.O. HPD College of Optometry
Howard P. Apple, Ph.D. CEO, President AMT Technologies
Dean David Loshin - HPD College of Optometry
Dean Anthony Silvagni - HPD College of Osteopathic Medicine
Project Title: Ocular Biometry: Integration of
Vision Screening into the Pediatric Primary Care Setting
Abstract: The goal of vision screening in young
children is to eliminate preventable blindness and identify
treatable conditions early enough to implement effective
intervention. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP)
has recently endorsed the need for more extensive studies
of photoscreening technologies as a specific tool for increasing
the currently low national rate of vision screening in
young children (AAP, 2002). There are a number of different
photoscreening optical devices that have been used in both
general population screening and with specific clinical
populations. Results from the available studies vary dramatically
in terms of sensitivity, specificity, and predictive values,
and none of the current technology meets the standards
required for universal acceptance (Freedman and Preston,
1992; Atkinson, et al., 1996); Tong, et al., 1998; Simons,
et al., 1999; Granet, et al., 1999; Watts, et al., 1999;
Enzenauer, et al., 2000; Hartmann, et al., 2000).
The purpose of the proposed study is to use a new device,
the AMT Ocular Biometer, which is a combined wavefront
sensing and eye tracking apparatus. This instrument is
capable of dynamically measuring ocular alignment and accommodation
of both eyes simultaneously. It can be accurately thought
of as a dual video recorder. The subject looks through
a glass window at real targets for a period of 30 seconds.
The videotape is processed to evaluate ocular alignment
and refraction of each eye using a computer program. It
is only necessary to get good pictures when and if the
child is looking at the targets. We propose to evaluate
this device in a pediatric primary care setting as a vision
screening tool with very young children. Children between
3 and 6 years of age will be tested using the Ocular Biometer
and the findings will be compared with results from a comprehensive,
dilated eye examination. Children will be recruited from
the Pediatric Clinics in the College of Osteopathic Medicine.
The complete eye examination will be performed in the Pediatric
and Binocular Vision Clinic in the College of Optometry.
This work will be a collaborative effort within Nova Southeastern
University between the Colleges of Optometry and Osteopathic
Medicine, as well as an external collaboration with AMT
Technologies Corp., the developer of the Ocular Biometer.
The study is designed to evaluate the specificity and sensitivity
of the device as well as its efficacy in the primary care
setting for vision screening. The findings of this work
are expected to launch a sophisticated, state-of-the-art
vision screening technology into the primary care setting.
Andrew Mariassy, Ph.D. HPD College of Medical Science
Maung A. Khin, M.D., Ph.D. HPD College of Medical Science
Anthony Ottavani, D.O. HPD College of Osteopathic Medicine
Kathleen Khin, M.D. HPD College of Medical Science
Darren Sommer (Student)
Dean Harold Laubach - HPD College of Medical Science
Dean Anthony Silvagni - HPD College of Osteopathic Medicine
Project Title: Morphometric Assessment of the Airwall
Structure in Severe Asthmatics and Control Subjects
Abstract: Asthma is a chronic, recurring inflammatory
lung disease characterized by reversible bronchial obstruction-constriction
and an increased responsiveness of the tracheobronchial
tree to a variety of stimuli. This results in hyperemia,
edema, submucosal gland and smooth muscle hyperplasia
and eventually connective tissue deposition and airway remodeling.
We hypothesize that all of these morphological components
of the asthmatic response results in one common endpoint:
increased thickness of the airway wall, with encroachment
on the airway lumen. This outcome may result in a much
more drastic narrowing of the susceptible airways when
a subject is exposed to a minimal asthmatic stimulus,
eliciting a disproportionally large effect on the chronically
impaired asthmatic airways as compared to controls. In the
present proposal, we intend to investigate the quantitative
relationships between the airway wall thickness, its morphologic
components and lumen size. We will measure connective tissue
compartments, including smooth muscle, cartilage, vasculature,
edema and submucosal glands in subjects that died in status
asthmaticus and compare these with control subjects. This
comparison is possible because the length of the internal
airway perimeter remains remarkably constant even during
the severe bronchial constriction due to the folding of mucosa.
The major question asked here is which constituents of the
airway wall are most responsible for the narrowing of airways
in a severe asthma attack. To resolve this question, we propose
to measure the airway wall structures in histological sections
of human bronchial tissue with an image analysis program,
Image-Pro® Plus. Our preliminary data from the morphometric
analysis of small airways suggest that the submucosal
glands in bronchi of asthmatic subjects are larger as
compared to controls. This may not only contribute to
the potentially more copious mucus secretion, but also
to the increase of the airway wall volume, consequently
contributing to the narrowing of the airway lumen.
Charles Messing, Ph.D. Oceanographic Center
Mahmood Shivji, Ph.D. Oceanographic Center
Dean Richard Dodge - Oceanographic Center
Project Title: Recognition of Species in the Crinoidea:
Comparing Genetics with Traditional Taxonomy Including
a Lecture Series and Laboratory on Crinoids in Science
and History
Abstract: Crinoids, commonly known as sea lilies
and feather stars, are abundant and diverse in many marine
environments. Yet, because they are difficult to maintain
in aquaria, have never been bred in the laboratory, and
because many species are known from few specimens, they
remain among the least understood of marine animals. Recognition
of crinoid species is particularly ambiguous. Yet, accurate
identification of these animals is critical for: 1) understanding
their roles in marine ecosystems, where some may be harbingers
of environmental change; 2) collecting specimens as potential
sources of new pharmaceutical products, and 3) understanding
their extensive fossil record. To clarify what constitutes
a crinoid species, we will compare how genetic compositions
(i.e., DNA) vary relative to the physical, or morphological,
traits currently used to differentiate species in traditional
taxonomic classification. Much of the crinoid body is plankton-feeding
apparatus, which varies with growth and environmental conditions
(e.g., current velocity). Analysis of specific portions
of crinoid DNA will clarify the identities of 1) similar
forms that differ in different habitats or at different
depths, 2) unusually variable species, and 3) multiple
species that may be growth stages of one species. DNA sequences
should be similar within a species and differ between species.
Analytical methods will follow established protocols already
used successfully by us to study crinoids and other organisms.
We will disseminate results via at least two peer-reviewed
scientific journal articles and one international conference
presentation. The interdisciplinary component of this project
is a lecture series and hands-on laboratory for the University
School science program that covers 1) taxonomy, evolution
and the species concept, 2) crinoid ecology, 3) crinoids
in the early history of deep-sea exploration, and laboratory
exercises in taxonomy, identification and analyses of deep-sea
skeletal remains using crinoids as a model.
Michelle Clark, Ph.D. HPD College of Pharmacy
Dean William Hardigan - HPD College of Pharmacy
Project Title: The Regulation of Astrocyte Growth
by Angiotensin II
Abstract: Angiotensin II (Ang II) is an important
peptide of the renin-angiotensin system (RAS) that is important
in regulating fluid balance, sodium intake, thirst and
blood pressure. The RAS is highly activated in inflammatory
diseases such as shock and encephalitis. An important characteristic
of central nervous system inflammatory disease is an increase
in the growth and proliferation of astrocytes, a condition
known as reactive astrocytosis. Reactive astrocytosis is
known to alter the blood brain barrier and to inhibit axonal
regeneration. Studies that elucidate the mechanisms involved
in astrocyte growth and proliferation will be important
in providing treatment strategies for inflammatory disease
states of the central nervous system. I hypothesize that
Ang II plays a role in astrocyte growth and proliferation
and thus in reactive astrocytosis. In previous studies,
the P.I. and colleagues have found that Ang II stimulates
the astrocyte growth by activating mitogen-activated protein
kinases through an effect on tyrosine kinases. The P.I.
is requesting funding to determine the mechanisms by which
Ang II controls astrocyte growth and proliferation. Specifically,
I will investigate: a) which of the tyrosine kinases is
involved in Ang II-mediated astrocyte growth and proliferation;
b) the role of the intracellular signaling molecules phosphoinositide
3-kinase and p90 KDa ribosomal s6 kinase in Ang II-mediated
astrocyte growth and proliferation; and c) the transcription
factors involved in Ang II-mediated astrocyte growth and
proliferation. The P.I. is experienced in preparing primary
cultures of astrocytes, in running gel electrophoresis
and performing other experimental techniques necessary
to complete the project. The results of the studies will
be submitted for publication in peer reviewed journals
(Hypertension or Glia) and presented at National Scientific
Meetings (such as Experimental Biology). The P.I. will
also apply for a National Institute of Health grant or
an American Heart Association grant using data garnered
from this proposal.
Barbara Greenberg, Ph.D. HPD College of Osteopathic Medicine
Jennie Lou, M.D. HPD College of Osteopathic Medicine
Maryellen Antonetti, M.P.H., PA-C HPD College of Allied Health
Dean Anthony Silvagni - HPD College of Osteopathic
Medicine
Dean Rick Davis - HPD College of Allied Health
Project Title: Evaluation of Serum Levels and Dietary
Intake of Vitamin D in Patients with Multiple Sclerosis
Abstract: Multiple sclerosis (MS) is the most common
demyelinating disease of the central nervous system (CNS).
Factors associated with disease onset include genetic predisposition,
environmental and host factors, such as nutrition. Evidence
is limited on the role of nutrition in MS disease progression.
This preliminary study will assess the association between
disease progression and nutrient intake, particularly vitamin
D.
Defective CNS myelin production and maintenance characterize
MS pathophysiology and clinical manifestation. Evidence suggests
that cell-mediated autoimmunity is important in disease pathogenesis,
specifically cytokine production. An imbalance in cytokine
production is thought to play a major role in immune activation/
deactivation in MS patients. Experimental data suggest the
active form of vitamin D can prevent or suppress MS progression,
by impacting on cytokine production. There are no reported
data on vitamin D profile in MS patients. Possibly, MS patients
are genetically predisposed to develop abnormal vitamin D
metabolism when coupled with environmental insult (e.g.,
ultraviolet exposure) or other host susceptibility factors.
Nutrient intake data alone may be insufficient to evaluate
vitamin D adequacy in MS patients.
The sample will be 50 MS patients (cases), characterized
by clinical subtype, and 25 controls without MS. Food frequency
questionnaires will measure dietary intake; serum levels
of active vitamin D with be assayed, as an indication of
bioavailibility. Univariate and multivariate analyses will
be used to evaluate associations. Vitamin D levels will
be continuous and categorical (i.e., deficient/ not deficient,
or quartiles). Odds ratios and confidence limits from logistic
regression models will estimate the risk of disease status
with specific dietary variables. Pearson's correlation
coefficients will be used to assess the relationship between
dietary intake and serum vitamin D. These data will help
define further research to evaluate the practical implications
of vitamin D as a clinical tool in optimal MS disease management
and health promotion.
Arthur DeCarlo, D.D.S., Ph.D. HPD College of Dental Medicine
Dawn DeCarlo, O.D. HPD College of Optometry
William Balton, D.D.S. HPD College of Dental Medicine
Dean Robert Uchin - HPD College of Dental Medicine
Dean David Loshin - HPD College of Optometry
Project Title: Periodontal Disease and Other Complications
Abstract: Complications of diabetes mellitus (type
1 and type 2) such as nephropathy, neuropathy, retinopathy,
peripheral vascular disease, cardiovascular disease and
periodontal disease develop over time in relation to the
level of serum glucose control in diabetics. Periodontal
disease has only recently been recognized as a complication
of diabetes mellitus (type 1 and type 2). Recently we have
found that control of hyperglycemia improves control of
periodontal disease in diabetics. Interestingly, control
of periodontitis also improves control of hyperglycemia
in diabetics. Furthermore, there are similarities in the
pathophysiologic presentation of periodontitis with other
diabetic complications related to the accumulation of basement
membrane proteins, which suggests that similar biochemical
mechanisms are involved in periodontal disease and the
various diabetic complications.
It would be of great interest to know which of the other
diabetic complications present more frequently with periodontitis
in diabetes. This information has not been gathered in
a comprehensive manner, most likely due to the historical
absence of periodontitis as a diabetic complication in
the literature. These data acquired in this project may
be of diagnostic or of predictive value, allowing health
care providers to assess the relative risk of developing
certain diabetic complications based on the presence of
other complications including periodontitis. Further, identification
of a link between periodontitis and any other diabetic
complication should provide greater understanding of involved
pathophysiologic mechanisms, bringing the community closer
to controlling or preventing such complications.
The aim of this project is to measure the association
of periodontitis with other complications of diabetes.
We will collect medical history, measure diabetic retinopathy,
measure glycosylated hemoglobin, measure urine protein
levels, and measure a serum marker of nephropathy from
consenting diabetic patients of the College of Dental Medicine.
Interactions among the diabetic complications will be revealed
by ANOVA.
Cristina Gwaltney, M.S. University School
Andrew Rogerson, Ph.D. Oceanographic Center/Farquhar College
of Arts and Sciences
D. Esiobu, Ph.D. Florida Atlantic University
M. Samadpour, Ph.D. University of Washington
Dean Jerome Chermak - University School
Dean Richard Dodge - Oceanographic Center
Dean Norma Goonen - Farquhar College of Arts and Sciences
Project Title: Application of Molecular Methods
to Investigate the Levels of Fecal Contamination on South
Florida Beaches
Abstract: There is growing concern that traditional
indicator organisms (a group of microbes currently used
to gauge levels of fecal contamination) may be inappropriate
for Florida's sub-tropical waters. Moreover, regulatory
agencies traditionally determine the hygienic quality of
recreational beaches through monitoring the water; there
has been no consideration for public health risk due to
contact with sand. Both of these shortcomings are currently
being addressed by in an EPA funded study to assess levels
of fecal contamination at south Florida's beaches (AR,
principal investigator). Results from this study have shown
that sand accumulates high numbers of fecal indicator organisms,
much higher than the water. The question now becomes -
are there correspondingly high numbers of fecal pathogens?
If so, then exposure to sand may pose an increased health
risk to beach users, especially children. The alternative
scenario is that fecal indicators are surviving and growing
in sand and giving a false impression of health risk due
to fecal pollution.
Because of a recent contact with Dr. Samadpour of the
University of Washington and Molecular Epidemiology Inc.,
we now have the opportunity to employ molecular methods
to analyze beach sand for specific sewage-derived pathogens.
This would take the beach research along a new direction
and address the issue of why there are so many fecal indicators
are present in sand. Since the techniques to be utilized
are relatively straightforward, there is an opportunity
to partner with the University School and train several
(5 per year) advanced placement students from the School
in molecular biological techniques. The students will benefit
by being involved in an exciting, ongoing research program
and the project benefits by additional laboratory help.
At the University School, the students would be mentored
by Ms. T. Gwaltney . At the OC they would be supervised
and trained by Dr. Rogerson.
This proposal asks for equipment and consumable money
to make this cooperative research and educational activity
a reality. Although initially for one-year, the infrastructure
would be in place to allow high school students to be trained
in molecular methods indefinitely.
Devada Singh, Pharm.D. HPD College of Pharmacy
Leanne Lai, Ph.D. HPD College of Pharmacy
Stan Hannah, Ph.D. Fischler Graduate School of Education
& Human Services
Morton Diamond, M.D. HPD College of Allied Health
Dean William Hardigan HPD College of Pharmacy
Dean/Provost H. Wells Singleton Fischler Graduate School
of Education & Human Services
Project Title: Impact of Pharmaceutical Care on
Congestive Heart Failure Patients
Abstract: The purpose of this study is to determine
if the pharmaceutical care intervention can improve the
quality of life and lessen the mortality of patients with
congestive heart failure (CHF).
Broward General Medical Center is a 744-bed hospital with
24,000 patients admitted annually. The study population
is characterized by a preponderance of minority and underserved
patients, groups known to have more unmet post-hospital
needs and lower levels of adequacy of care.
This longitudinal population-based study is designed to
determine the impact of a CHF intervention program by comparing
the 9-month period before (October 2001 through June 2002)
and the 9-month period after (July 2002 through March 2003)
implementation of the intervention. Clinical pharmacists
will work in the CHF clinic alongside other medical clinicians
and will assess the patient's pharmacotherapy regimen (prescription,
OTC, herbal), and make recommendations on dosage adjustments,
drug interactions, and changing medications. The clinical
pharmacists will also recommend what necessary labs should
be ordered, distribute pillboxes, blood pressure kits,
weight scales, educational materials. In addition, the
patients will be asked to complete a quality of life -
SF 12 questionnaire at baseline and at three-months intervals.
Statistical methods will include both descriptive analysis
and paired t-tests to compare baseline to end-of-study
results of each outcome variable under 0.05 alpha level.
The SF-12 physical (PCS-12) and mental (MCS-12) components
summary scales will be scored using norm-based methods.
The significance of this pilot study may be profound.
If the program is shown to make significant impact on patients,
the pharmaceutical intervention will become an important
component in the future CHF treatment. The results will
be used as the foundation for a major grant request from
the federal government or national foundation.
Rachel A. Coulter, O.D. HPD College of Optometry
Cyril Blavo, D.O. HPD College of Osteopathic Medicine
Josephine Shallo-Hoffman, Ph.D. HPD College of Optometry
Pamela R. Oliver, O.D. HPD College of Optometry
Dean David Loshin - HPD College of Optometry
Dean Anthony Silvagni - HPD College of Osteopathic Medicine
Project Title: Determining Key Differences in Preschool
Vision Screening
Abstract: Vision screening of preschool children
detects problems that can cause irreversible loss. The
most targeted condition in this population is amblyopia
(lazy eye) occurring in approximately two to five percent
of the population. This collaborative public health study
of preschool vision screening compares screening tests
in two socio-economically distinct populations. Methods: Preschool
children, aged two to six years, will be recruited from:
1) the NSU affiliated preschool programs and 2) Caridad
Health Clinic serving indigent children of Mexican farm
workers. Each child will be screened with two visual acuity
tests and two stereoacuity tests. Each test attempt will
be timed. Children who do not complete the initial testing
attempt will be retested. If a child does not complete
the test on the second attempt, he or she will be classified
as failing that test. To pass the vision
screening, the child must pass one visual acuity test and
the stereoacuity test. Each child who fails the screening
will be referred for a complete eye examination.
In addition, a control group, every fourth child who passed
the screening, will be referred for an eye examination.
Neither the parents, nor the children, nor the clinical
examiner who performs the eye examination will know whether
the child passed or failed the screening prior to the eye
examination. Data Analysis: Data collected will be used
to calculate the testability, sensitivity, and specificity
of each test. Results will be analyzed for differences
by age and population using analysis of variance (ANOVA)
with post-hoc LSD tests. Significance: This study will
yield 1) benefits for the communities that it serves and
2) scientific contributions in vision science. The study
is double-blind and is unique, in that eye examinations
are also offered to children who pass the screening to
measure the effectiveness of the instruments under investigation.
Luigi X. Cubeddu, M.D., Ph.D. HPD College of Pharmacy
Dean William Hardigan - HPD College of Pharmacy
Project Title: Alpha-Adducin Polymorphism and Salt-Induced
Hypertension
Abstract: Genes encoding for alpha-adducin, angiotensin
converting enzyme and nitric oxide synthase levels have
been considered as candidate genes for hypertension (HT).
Alpha adducin is a cytoskeletal protein present in the
renal tubules and is involved in sodium reabsorption. Point
mutations in this protein (Gly460Trp) are associated with
HT. Because alpha adducin regulates sodium reabsorption,
mutations in the adducin gene may be associated with salt-sensitive
forms of HT. In this study, we propose:
- To develop an assay with the purpose of genotyping
the alpha-adducin point mutation. The assay should detect
subjects carrying the wild type of alpha adducin (Gly/Gly),
as well as those who carry the heterozygous (Gly460Trp)
and homozygous (Trp460Trp) mutants.
- To determine if the presence of alpha-adducin polymorphism
is associated with salt sensitive HT.
This is the first of a series of studies devoted to evaluate
the contribution of candidate genes to the development
of salt sensitive hypertension.
Alina M. Perez, J.D., L.C.S.W. HPD College of Osteopathic
Medicine
Barbara Greenberg, Ph.D. HPD College of Osteopathic Medicine
Jennie Lou, M.D. HPD College of Osteopathic Medicine
Maryellen Antonetti, M.P.H., PA-C HPD College of Allied Health
Dean Anthony Silvagni - HPD College of Osteopathic
Medicine
Dean Rick Davis - HPD College of Allied Health
Project Title: Evaluating Hispanics' Satisfaction
with Hospice Care: A Cultural Diversity
Abstract: Statistics demonstrate that Hispanics
in the United States are under-represented in hospice and
palliative care. Studies suggest that this under-utilization
may be due to cultural barriers that exist when the language,
experiences and cultural perspectives of the patient differs
from that of the provider. In response to this problem,
Hospice by the Sea, in Boca Raton, Florida, has created
a new program called the Cultural Diversity Initiative.
One of the goals of this program is to improve the delivery
of health care services to dying Hispanic patients and
their families through strategies designed to ensure that
they receive care that is culturally and linguistically
responsive to their needs. Among these strategies is the
creation of the Hispanic Interdisciplinary Team (The Hispanic
Team), which will focus directly on the delivery of care
to Hispanic hospice patients.
This proposal seeks to obtain funds to determine how this
culturally sensitive intervention (The Hispanic Team) will
affect patient and caregiver satisfaction with hospice
services. The methodology will involve qualitative measures
of patient/caregiver satisfaction collected through focus
groups and interviews. In addition, results will be supported
by quantitative analysis of data collected from satisfaction
surveys. Data analysis will compare pre- and post -study
levels of patient and caregiver satisfaction. Information
collected from this study will help to determine if the
use of a culturally sensitive team could be integrated
into a best practice model for hospice care that will eliminate
some of the barriers to utilization of end-of-life care
experienced by Hispanics and other minority groups.
Edward O. Keith, Ph.D. Oceanographic Center/Farquhar
College of Arts and Sciences
Bart Baca, Ph.D. Oceanographic Center
Steven Dale John U. Lloyd Beach State Park
Dean Dick Dodge - Oceanographic Center
Dean Norma Goonen - Farquhar College of Arts and Sciences
Project Title: The Natural History of John U. Lloyd
Beach State Park
Abstract: John U. Lloyd Beach State Park ("The
Park") consists of 251 acres of barrier island beachfront
lying between the Atlantic Ocean and the Intracoastal
Waterway. Its natural setting contrasts sharply with
the urban development of Ft. Lauderdale and provides
an underutilized laboratory for the teaching of ecology
and environmental sciences in a field setting. The climate,
geology, and vegetation have been relatively well characterized.
In contrast, the fauna, especially small mammals, are
poorly characterized and incompletely documented. Standard
survey methods for terrestrial fauna, including small
mammal live-trapping, early morning bird counts, and
vegetative transects, etc, will be utilized to gather
the data. Standard methods will be used to analyze these
data and incorporate them into a book that represents
the output work product of this project. Graduate students
will be utilized to the collect data, providing both
financial assistance and thesis research topics that
further their education at the Oceanographic Center.
A secondary goal of this project is to develop an undergraduate
science course in the Farquhar College of Arts and Sciences
entitled "The Natural History of John U. Lloyd Beach State
Park". This course will meet the needs of students in the
Farquhar College of Arts and Sciences for field-based education,
as required for their major. The course will provide education
in the fields of ecology, natural history, environmental
science, and oceanography, and prepare students for internships
at the Park where they could lead educational tours for
the general public and school groups; assist with habitat
restoration, remediation, and management; and assisting
Park personnel with other priority activities. A peer-reviewed
paper in the open literature, and the output volume, provide
the mechanisms for the dissemination of the results of
this effort, as well as an educational resource for the
general public.
David Reitman, Ph.D. Center for Psychological Studies
Dean Ronald Levant - Center for Psychological Studies
Project Title: Parent-Mediated Sports and Social
Skills Training For ADHD-Diagnosed Children
Abstract: Children diagnosed with Attention-Deficit/
Hyperactivity Disorder frequently experience social problems.
Initial attempts to promote the acquisition of social skills
via medication, group therapy, or through cognitively-oriented
didactic instruction have proven of limited value. Recently,
researchers have developed multimodal treatment protocols
that have incorporated parents, teachers, peers, and medication
into social skills intervention packages. Less frequently,
training in athletic and social competence (i.e., sports
skills and sportsmanship) has been used in an attempt to
facilitate social relationships. Researchers have demonstrated
that athletic and social competence can be improved in
training settings, but few attempts have been made to promote
generalization of these skills to settings outside of the
treatment sessions. In the present study, we will evaluate
a parent-mediated social skills training program using
a multiple baseline design across four participants. Outcome
assessment will focus on direct observation of the children's
behavior in the sports setting; before, during, and after
intervention, but measures of social skills, treatment
acceptability, and global measures of behavioral improvement
(rating scales) will also be obtained. If effective, these
methods could be evaluated in a larger study examining
the social impact of such training on the social status
of rejected ADHD children over an extended period of time.
Training parents to effectively coach their children in
social skills may also prove useful in preventing some
of the negative effects of social isolation that commonly
accompany an ADHD diagnosis.
Michael M. Patterson, Ph.D. HPD College of Osteopathic
Medicine
Eric Shamus, P.T., Ph.D. HPD College of Osteopathic Medicine
Dean Anthony Silvagni - HPD College of Osteopathic
Medicine
Project Title: Determination in Palpatory Diagnosis
and Manipulative Treatment by Osteopathic Physicians and
Physical Therapists
Abstract: Children diagnosed with Attention-Deficit/
Hyperactivity Disorder frequently experience social problems.
Initial attempts to promote the acquisition of social skills
via medication, group therapy, or through cognitively-oriented
didactic instruction have proven of limited value. Recently,
researchers have developed multimodal treatment protocols
that have incorporated parents, teachers, peers, and medication
into social skills intervention packages. Less frequently,
training in athletic and social competence (i.e., sports
skills and sportsmanship) has been used in an attempt to
facilitate social relationships. Researchers have demonstrated
that athletic and social competence can be improved in
training settings, but few attempts have been made to promote
generalization of these skills to settings outside of the
treatment sessions. In the present study, we will evaluate
a parent-mediated social skills training program using
a multiple baseline design across four participants. Outcome
assessment will focus on direct observation of the children's
behavior in the sports setting; before, during, and after
intervention, but measures of social skills, treatment
acceptability, and global measures of behavioral improvement
(rating scales) will also be obtained. If effective, these
methods could be evaluated in a larger study examining
the social impact of such training on the social status
of rejected ADHD children over an extended period of time.
Training parents to effectively coach their children in
social skills may also prove useful in preventing some
of the negative effects of social isolation that commonly
accompany an ADHD diagnosis.
Ronald Block, Ph.D. HPD College of Medical Science
Dean Harold Laubach - HPD College of Medical Science
Project Title: Synthesis and Testing of Gadolinium
Derivatives of Hormones
Abstract: The detection of cancerous mammary tumors
is usually achieved in the earliest stages by mammography,
and in later stages by palpation. Early detection is advantageous
for lumpectomy excision or treatment. However, in the case
of either very dense breast tissue, the presence of fibrocystic
disease or implanted prosthesis, these lesions can be obscured
until their size is dangerously large. Advanced development
of such lesions makes more likely the possibility that
they have either spread to lymph nodes, or metastasized
to distant locations.
Magnetic resonance imaging can under the right conditions
give exquisitely detailed pictures of soft tissue lesions.
In the case of mammary tumors, the complicating tissue
components and the lower sensitivity of non-enhanced MRI
than mammography to tumor size makes MRI less than optimal
in its performance. For these reasons, the use of paramagnetic
compounds has been explored by several workers in order
to enhance breast tumor appearance in MR images. Currently,
such contrast agents are non-specific, going throughout
the bloodstream with no particular localization. This makes
the utility of such agents with breast lesions very time
dependent, because the agent will eventually be equally
distributed throughout the vascular pool.
For the above reasons, I propose to synthesize gadolinium-DTPA
derivatives of the hormones prolactin, placental lactogen,
and oxytocin. It is well established that these hormones
have membrane receptors in mammary tissues. If time permits,
a DTPA derivative of estradiol will also be synthesized,
although estrogens bind only transiently to cell surface
proteins. The possible interaction of the gadolinium-DTPA-hormones
with cultured mammary tumor cells will be measured by determining
the proton T1 and T2 relaxation times of the water in samples
of packed tumor cells both with and without the gadolinium-DTPA
complexed to the various hormones, and bound to the cells.
Jennie Lou, M.D. HPD College of Osteopathic Medicine
Steve Cohen, M.S., PA-C HPD College of Osteopathic Medicine
Dean Anthony Silvagni - HPD College of Osteopathic
Medicine
Project Title: Family Wellness and Health Education
Center: A Community Needs Assessment
Abstract: The purpose of this proposal is to conduct
a needs assessment to determine the critical healthcare
needs of the people in the city of Port Antonio, Jamaica.
The goal of this needs assessment is to provide valuable
information for health researchers to clearly identify
the healthcare priorities of the target population and
create a new healthcare delivery program that addresses
those needs in such a way as to make it more feasible,
practical, and desirable for people to make healthcare
a priority in their daily lives. This new healthcare
delivery program will be the establishment of a comprehensive,
clinical-wellness center that is directed at family wellness
and health education. The establishment of a comprehensive
wellness center will provide multiple health services in
one setting, promote health education, and make the financial
cost of care more manageable to the average citizen. It is
also the goal of the comprehensive wellness center to enable
the target population to be more proactive in their healthcare.
Additional benefits will be reduced national healthcare expenditure
for intensive care, improved social welfare and public
health. As a major interest for both the Public Health
program and Physician Assistants Department, the center
itself will provide a setting for rural health research,
program evaluation, and invaluable information and experiences
for future health policies and initiatives directed at
health issues on the island of Jamaica, and for similar
situations on other Caribbean islands. In keeping with
the mission of the University, "the enhancement of the
well being of multicultural and under-served populations",
this center will also provide opportunities for NSU to
expand its already existing medical mission program in
under-served countries, and establish a community service
site for the entire Health Professions Division. Supporting
research like this one in Jamaica will significantly
enhance NSU's profile in the Caribbean region.
Wiley Mittenberg, Ph.D. Center for Psychological Studies
Steven Friedland, J.D. Shepard Broad Law Center
Frederick Lewis, D.O. HPD College of Osteopathic Medicine
Dean Ronald Levant - Center for Psychological Studies
Dean Joseph D. Harbaugh - Shepard Broad Law Center
Dean Anthony Silvagni - HPD College of Osteopathic Medicine
Project Title: Differential Diagnosis of Malingered
Brain Injury Using Intelligence Tests
Abstract: Traumatic brain injury is the most common
cause of neurological disorder in the United States, with
an annual incidence of over 1.5 million cases. Although
acute space occupying lesions may be visualized by radiographic
methods such as CT or MRI, diffuse shearing of neuronal
projections is thought to be the primary cause of chronic
cognitive impairment caused by traumatic brain injury.
Axonal shearing occurs at the microscopic level and cannot
be directly visualized by radiographic methods. Objective
diagnosis of chronic intellectual impairment typically
involves examination with the Wechsler Adult Intelligence
Scale-3 (WAIS-3). Traumatic brain injury may significantly
reduce IQ, and differentially affect component abilities
such as short term memory and reasoning. In clinical settings
the extent of intellectual impairment cannot be predicted
by existing radiographic methods, and must be directly
tested with the WAIS-3. Test results are used by physicians
to make judgments about prognosis and treatment. IQ tests
are also used by the courts to determine the amount of
compensation awarded in personal injury litigation and
for determinations of criminal competence and sanity. Attempts
to exaggerate or malinger intellectual impairment are frequent
in these cases, and account for about 40% of litigating
or compensation seeking head trauma claims. The current
study is designed to provide an empirically tested method
for identification of malingered intellectual impairment.
The WAIS-3 will be administered to 40 individuals who have
sustained medically documented brain injury, and 40 normal
neurologically subjects who simulate deficient intelligence.
Test scores will be statistically analyzed by stepwise
discriminant function analysis. This will produce an algebraic
equation capable of making differential diagnoses between
actual and malingered impairment in IQ. The resulting procedure
can be applied to clinical cases to determine if intellectual
impairment is present or exaggerated.
Bai-chuan Jiang, Ph.D. HPD College of Optometry
Yin Tea, O.D. HPD College of Optometry
Dean David Loshin - HPD College of Optometry
Project Title: Accomodative Therapy for Delaying
Presbyopia
Abstract: Presbyopia is the gradual loss of the
eye's ability to change focus (accommodation) for seeing
near objects. The long-term goal of this research is to
understand the physiological mechanism in presbyopia progression.
In this study we will test whether a method of accommodative
training can keep the ciliary muscle and the lens flexible,
and therefore delay the progression of presbyopia
During training, the subject will be asked to view a moving
target through an optical device which will exercise each
eye slowly and rhythmically over its full range of accommodation.
We will use both subjective and objective measurements
to assess the subject's accommodative amplitude before
and after training. The subject will exercise each eye
for 5 minutes per day for two weeks. We are going to compare
1) the accommodative amplitudes before and after training
at each visit; 2) the accommodative amplitude before the
training period to that after the two-week training period;
and 3) the results obtained from objective and subjective
measurements.
Presbyopia progression is associated with aging and occurs
in essentially every person over age 45. The result of
this study may lead to a new strategy for delaying the
onset and progression of presbyopia among pre-presbyopic
subjects. In addition, the result will also help to assess
two existing theories related to the mechanism of presbyopia,
i.e. the Donders-Duane-Fincham theory and Helmholtz-Hess-Gullstrand
theory.
Vincent B. Van Hasselt, Ph.D. Center for Psychological
Studies
Gregory M. Vecchi, M.S. (Student) Graduate School of Humanities &
Social Sciences
Dean Ronald Levant - Center for Psychological Studies
Dean Honggang Yang - Graduate School of Humanities & Social
Sciences
Project Title: Development of a System for the
Classification of Hostage Takers
Abstract: Hostage-taking, the holding of one or
more persons against their will, with the actual or implied
use of force, has become a growing problem for law enforcement
personnel worldwide. However, despite the increased public,
media, and professional attention to this phenomenon, few
investigative efforts have been directed to determining
the characteristics and types of individuals who engage
in such criminal behavior. The purpose of the proposed
project is to carry out the initial phase of a large-scale
program to develop an empirically-derived, behaviorally-based
system for the classification of hostage-takers. This will
be a collaborative effort with the FBI Crisis Negotiations
Unit (CNC). Further, the project will adhere to the assessment
model originally constructed by the FBI Behavioral Science
Unit (BSU) in their landmark investigations which generated
psychological profiles and taxonomies of serial killers
and sexual predators through in-depth evaluations. Funding
sought through this application is specifically for consultation
and collaboration with CNU and BSU personnel at the FBI
Academy to: (1) design a standardized Structured Interview
protocol that will be administered to hostage-takers, (2)
develop a Record Review protocol that will be employed
to obtain archival data (i.e., information from psychiatric
and criminal records, etc.) pertinent to their evaluation,
and (3) conduct a pilot test of these protocols with 10-12
incarcerated hostage-takers. Completed protocols and collected
data from this study will serve as pilot data for a joint
grant application (with the FBI) to the U.S. Department
of Justice to fund a large-scale evaluation program involving
approximately 200 hostage-takers. It is predicted that
the resulting classification system will: a) help to further
threat assessment methodology, b) increase non-lethal resolutions
through use of more prescriptive strategies in the hostage-negotiation
process, and c) improve the design of violence prevention
and intervention programs.
