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Dr. Christina Mortellaro, Thesis Advisor
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Peacock Scholarship
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Research Paper
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- Description:
- Hyperthyroidism is a pathological disorder caused by the excess production of thyroid hormones triiodothyronine (T3) and thyroxine (T4) in the thyroid gland, inducing oxidative stress. Bisphenol A (BPA), one of the most manufactured substances worldwide, is primarily used in the production of polycarbonate and epoxy resins found in plastics. It is widely studied because of its teratogenic and endocrine-disrupting potential. It causes thyroid hormones and reactive oxygen species (ROS) to increase by its inhibition mechanism, leading to thyroid toxicity. Studies show that some products can have protective effects against BPA exposure. Both melatonin and vitamin D are known for their antioxidant properties and homeostatic functioning of the mitochondria by reducing ROS production. This means that a possible synergistic relationship between melatonin and vitamin D could ameliorate the effects of BPA-induced thyroid toxicity. The purpose of this study is to review the effects of oxidative stress on the thyroid caused by BPA and the possible protective effects and antioxidant mechanisms of melatonin and vitamin D against BPA-induced thyroid toxicity.
- Subject:
- Biology
- Creator:
- Lopez Jimenez, Yaidelis
- Contributor:
- Dr. Christina Mortellaro, Thesis Advisor
- Owner:
- lsquillante@saintpeters.edu
- Publisher:
- Saint Peter's University
- Date Uploaded:
- 06/09/2021
- Date Modified:
- 06/09/2021
- Date Created:
- Spring 2021
- Rights Statement:
- In Copyright
- Resource Type:
- Research Paper
- Description:
- The use of artificial sweeteners, such as aspartame and saccharin, are becoming more prevalent due to its popularity for low calorie diets and sugar alternatives, especially to those with diabetes. Artificial sweeteners have been found to cause adverse health effects ranging from headaches to cancer (Whitehouse, 2008). However, much of the research that has been done on the harmful effects of aspartame and saccharin is centered on their possible carcinogenic effects. Little to no research has been conducted on the effects of aspartame and saccharin on the gut microbiome. The gut microbiome has been linked to the progression of multiple disorders based on the alterations in its composition. Studies have also found a bidirectional interaction between the gut microbiome and the brain (Ma, 2019). As many side effects of artificial sweeteners have been reported in relation to the nervous system, we will explore if these artificial sweeteners are affecting the health of the gut microbiome. The aim of this study is to discuss the effects of aspartame and saccharin on human health, with emphasis on the gut microbiome.
- Subject:
- Biology
- Creator:
- Nazzal, Khawlah
- Contributor:
- Dr. Christina Mortellaro, Thesis Advisor and Dr. Jill Calahan, Thesis Advisor
- Owner:
- lsquillante@saintpeters.edu
- Publisher:
- Saint Peter's University
- Date Uploaded:
- 06/10/2020
- Date Modified:
- 06/10/2020
- Date Created:
- April 20, 2020
- Rights Statement:
- In Copyright
- Resource Type:
- Research Paper
- Description:
- Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a developmental disability highlighted by a series of diagnostic criteria including social communication and social interaction deficiency, and the presence of repetitive behavioral and interest patterns that have the potential of continuing throughout life. Although autism spectrum disorder has always been on the radar of health professionals everywhere, it has garnered much attention and prevalence over the past few decades. There is no known cure for autism spectrum disorder at this time, and it is not clearly known as to why the number of children affected by it continues to rise exponentially. Over the years, research surrounding treatment for those with autism spectrum disorder has revolutionized, bringing to light new therapy treatment techniques, focusing on sensory-motor adaptation, balance, nutrition, and sensory integration. Occupational therapists help children individually with autism spectrum disorder in school settings, in clinical settings, and even in home settings. However, an occupational therapist is just one title on a list of health professionals who work together to improve the lives of those with autism spectrum disorder and their families By working with a team of well-equipped doctors, occupational therapists, educational psychologists, clinical psychologists, and other qualified professionals, the person with autism spectrum disorder is set up for a lifetime of growth and success, despite the challenges ASD brings. The purpose of this research is to explore the treatment options for autism spectrum disorder in children, evaluating what works best across each age group. In order to complete this thesis, a plethora of literature surrounding the realm of occupational therapy treatment as well as autism spectrum disorder was studied, and interviews with professionals were conducted. Once all the information had been collected, conclusions were drawn and comparisons were made.
- Subject:
- Biology
- Creator:
- Makinen, Alison N.
- Contributor:
- Dr. Christina Mortellaro, Thesis Advisor
- Owner:
- lsquillante@saintpeters.edu
- Publisher:
- Saint Peter's University
- Date Uploaded:
- 06/09/2020
- Date Modified:
- 06/09/2020
- Date Created:
- April 20, 2020
- Rights Statement:
- In Copyright
- Resource Type:
- Research Paper
- Description:
- Obesity currently affects more than one-third of adults and 17 percent of youth in the United States while at least 24 million children and adults have type II diabetes. In an attempt to reduce the intake of calories, artificial sweeteners are often used to replace natural sugars, such as sucrose, in commonly consumed foods and drinks. With the rise of artificial sweetener usage there has been much speculation on their adverse effects, as well as those of sugar. While extensive research has been done on the carcinogenic effects of aspartame, far too few of it pertains to its effects on neurological development. Likewise, there is limited data that currently links the use of aspartame to changes in cardiac function, although more research is starting to suggest that greater aspartame consumption may have a role in the development of cardiovascular disease. This study investigates the effects of sucrose and aspartame, individually and in combination on larval development in Xenopus laevis (African clawed frog). Xenopus laevis embryos are an appropriate model organism due to the rapid rate of development and a transparent larval stage. Specimens were incubated in aspartame and sucrose concentrations of 10 μg/ml and 25 μg/ml. The rate of development of each group is analyzed and compared to the control group to draw a connection between the exposure to the compounds and their development; thus investigating a causal relationship. Embryos were photographed for any morphological changes. Preliminary results indicate that there were no observed changes in the neural development of the X. laevis however, the heart rates of those exposed to 25 μg/ml of aspartame were twice the rate of those exposed to lower concentrations of aspartame and of sucrose. Further research is needed to understand the effects of aspartame on the cardiovascular changes that result.
- Creator:
- Olcese, Rebecca
- Contributor:
- Dr. Christina Mortellaro, Thesis Advisor
- Owner:
- lsquillante@saintpeters.edu
- Publisher:
- Saint Peter's University
- Date Uploaded:
- 10/23/2019
- Date Modified:
- 10/23/2019
- Date Created:
- May 2019
- Rights Statement:
- In Copyright
- Resource Type:
- Research Paper