Groundbreaking Research for Next Level Care

Artwork by child at Nexus Children's Hospital

Dr. John W. Cassidy Translational Medicine Research Institute

The mission of the institute within Nexus Hope Foundation
is to conduct groundbreaking research for healthcare professionals
to leverage better outcomes in their patients.
The research focuses on pharmacological interventions
to manage behavioral issues in the traditional medical setting.

Advancing pharmacological interventions to manage behavioral issues in the traditional medical setting.

The purpose of our research is to publish data and insights to ultimately help individuals receive the most effective medical and behavioral care. It is through retrospective studies and prospective trials that we evaluate treatments and best practices for hospitals and other care facilities to leverage for similar outcomes in their patients.

Retrospective research is conducted by collecting information from patient records and deidentifying them to analyze for positive trends of impact of treatment. The research institute also conducts prospective clinical trials. These trials are designed to identify the effectiveness of a treatment method and consenting Nexus Health Systems patients will be part of the study.

Studies and trials are always ongoing, and as findings are published, details will be shared below.
Check back often to read about the groundbreaking research taking place.

Our Mission

Our mission is to provide a bridge
between medical and behavioral health
through awareness, research, and enrichment.

Awareness
The Nexus Hope Foundation hosts various initiatives for community stakeholders, medical professionals, and non-licensed caregivers to provide education and training around medical and behavioral health needs and services.

Research
The Dr. John W. Cassidy Translational Medicine Center conducts groundbreaking research for healthcare professionals to leverage better outcomes in their patients. The research focuses on pharmacological interventions to manage behavioral issues in the traditional medical setting.

Enrichment
As a Foundation we facilitate a variety of programs dedicated to making a difference in the lives of individuals with medical and behavioral needs, as well as their caregivers.

Meet the Research Team

John W. Cassidy, MD

Principle Investigator

Geetha Ravindranathan, MS

Research Associate

Current Research Projects

The Nexus Hope Foundation research team is currently completing groundbreaking studies.

PWS patient walking outside with therapist

Enhanced insights into pediatric Prader-Willi Syndrome: Expanded cohort analysis reveals significant improvements in health markers and physical activity

2024

Purpose: To evaluate the efficacy of a comprehensive inpatient program for pediatric Prader-Willi syndrome (PWS) at Nexus Children’s Hospital, Texas, utilizing standardized fitness trackers to monitor treatment progress.

Comprehensive assessment of body composition, physical activity, and health markers in pediatric Prader-Willi Syndrome

2023

Purpose: Examine body composition, physical activity levels, and health markers in pediatric Prader-Willi Syndrome, thereby providing valuable insights to optimize management strategies for this population.

Tablet and pen

Naltrexone for the treatment of skin picking disorder in patients with Prader–Willi syndrome: A retrospective study

2021

Purpose: To evaluate the use of naltrexone as a therapeutic agent in treatment of skin picking in patients with Prader-Willi Syndrome.

Recovery of patients with acquired brain injury from coma to full consciousness

2020-2021

Purpose: To evaluate therapy-related and clinical factors in patients with acquired brain injury.

Prader-Willi Syndrome repository at Nexus Health Systems

2021-2022

Purpose: To evaluate the therapeutic factors that affect the clinical outcomes of patients with Prader-Willi Syndrome (PWS).

Neuron graphic

Prospective recovery of patients with acquired brain injury at Nexus Health Systems

2022-2032

Purpose: To assess clinical factors and prognostic markers that may be useful to anticipate decisions and further improve the care of patients with acquired brain injury.