Four graduate students represented McQueary College of Health and Human Services (MCHHS) with pride and poise at this year’s 3 Minute Thesis (3MT) Competition.
The Missouri State Graduate College hosted the competition on Nov. 8, showcasing graduate students’ research. They had to present their research orally in three minutes or less.
Danny Vlasin, a Doctorate of Nurse Anesthesia Practice student, won first place. His research highlighted the potential of a new drug called Remimazolam.
His ability to simplify complex research while highlighting the drug’s transformative potential made his work stand out.
“This win reflects the dedication and effort of my entire team, including Christian Thomas and Jenna Scheer, in this project,” Vlasin said. “We’re excited to share our research and provide valuable insights into new findings in anesthesia care that affect many lives.”
For winning, he gets to represent Missouri State at the regional competition during the Midwestern Association of Graduate Schools conference in April next year.
Modernizing anesthesia
Vlasin’s winning thesis title is “Remimazolam: A New Medication for Procedural and General Sedation.” Remimazolam (Byfavo) is a safer sedation with faster recovery times. It is a more effective alternative compared to traditional anesthesia medications.
He chose to research this drug for his doctoral project to address critical gaps in anesthesia safety and improve patient care. His research involved a comprehensive literature review of clinical trials. His study revealed highly favorable results for using Remimazolam in both procedural sedation and general anesthesia.
“I want to educate the public and health care professionals about this awesome new medication,” Vlasin said.
In his presentation, he stated: “The next time a doctor asks how to proceed with the care of a loved one, respond with this question: ‘Hey doc, have you heard of Remimazolam?’”
The other presentations by MCHHS Bears
These MCHHS students also delivered commendable presentations at the competition:
- Emma Liimatta, cell and molecular biology: “How Does the Protein RAD23 Aid in Repairing DNA?”
Her research explored critical molecular mechanisms that may advance cancer treatments and genetic therapies. - Olivia Johnson, biomedical sciences: “The Similarities Between Viruses and Vampires: Approaches to Triumph over Them”
She drew fascinating parallels between infectious diseases and vampire folklore, offering a fresh perspective on combating emerging health threats. - Ako Rostampour, cell and molecular biology: “Let’s Run to Outrun Alzheimer’s”
His work shed light on innovative strategies for understanding and addressing Alzheimer’s disease.
Congratulations to all four students for their outstanding achievements and contributions to advancing knowledge in health-related areas.