Digital Commons Network^™

Examining The Impact Of Holistic Practices On Lgbtqia+ Wellness, Airelle Railley

Mahurin Honors College Capstone Experience/Thesis Projects

The project involved surveying the before and aftereffects of holistic healing for ten undergraduate Kentuckians who identify as LGBTQIA+. The purpose of the project was to heighten and expand the LGBTQIA+ participants experience with holistic and wellness care, by utilizing on or off campus wellness activities. Those ten participants were split into two groups of five. The control group was lightly “encouraged” to attend any health and wellness activities. The intervention group was required to attend at least one yoga session per week. Each participant was instructed to complete and submit documentation each month. Those documents included surveys and monthly …

Mental Health Stigma In College Students By Academic Major, Kristen Miller

Mahurin Honors College Capstone Experience/Thesis Projects

Stigma is best defined as the disapproval and shame felt by people who display characteristics not widely accepted in society. Although mental illness has become more prevalent in society through advocacy and awareness campaigns, it fails to be accepted and often individuals may feel shame that prevents them from seeking help (Dyrbye, Eacker, Durning, Brazeau, Moutier, Massie, S., et al, 2015; Givens & Tjia, 2002). Physicians in particular have been shown to have decreased help-seeking behaviors for psychological issues due to fear of professional repercussions (Dyrbye et al., 2015). Physicians also show increased levels of stress, anxiety, depression, and elevated …

Maternal Health In Eastern Tanzania: Antenatal, Delivery And Postnatal Care, Christina Sego

Mahurin Honors College Capstone Experience/Thesis Projects

The purpose of this study is to evaluate maternal health conditions in eastern Tanzania and identify areas and conditions for improvement of healthcare. Tanzania is ranked 27th highest country in maternal mortality in the world (The World Factbook: Tanzania, 2018). Maternal health is an ongoing challenge Tanzania is facing as a country. This experiment was designed to identity areas of service in the district hospital setting that could advance quality of care. This study was conducted in Sinza Palestina Hospital, a district hospital on the outskirts of Dar es Salaam, Tanzania. Data was collected in the form of observation, interviews …

Healthcare And Its Impact On Nurses: The United States Vs. The United Kingdom, Alexandria Colovos

Mahurin Honors College Capstone Experience/Thesis Projects

Currently, in the United States, the topic of healthcare reform is in the back of everyone’s mind. What will come of our healthcare system? Will the cost of healthcare decrease? Will patients have better access to care? With this Capstone Experience/Thesis, I wanted to explore the differences between the current healthcare system that we have in the United States, to the nearly seventy-year-old National Health Service (NHS) in the United Kingdom, which provides healthcare to all. The NHS is free at the point of care and is funded by taxation. To understand if such a system would work in the …

Analyzing The Regionalized Awareness Of Distraction Osteogenesis, Ali Weinzapfel

Mahurin Honors College Capstone Experience/Thesis Projects

There are multiple treatment options available to initiate bone growth within the oral cavity. Distraction osteogenesis is a surgical dental procedure performed to initiate new bone growth in the maxillofacial region. This procedure is an important advancement to dental professionals because of the minimal complications and great outcome of bone growth it offers. As dentistry is always evolving, it is imperative to relay current trends to other professionals within the field of dentistry. The goal of this research was to analyze the regionalized awareness of distraction osteogenesis. A survey was conducted among dentists in Kentucky and Tennessee with multiple questions …

The Implementation Of Alternative Pain Control Methods By Dental Hygienists, Alejandra Valadez Rodriguez

Mahurin Honors College Capstone Experience/Thesis Projects

As a dental hygienist, it is important to understand new concepts and techniques that can contribute to a more comfortable setting for patients who experience dental anxiety. Alternative pain control methods can assist in alleviating patient anxiety, therefore, providing a more efficient and relaxed clinical atmosphere for both patient and clinician. Some of the methods discussed are: guided imagery, deep breathing, muscle relaxation, hypnosis, acupressure, essential oil diffusion, audio distraction, and visual stimuli. After reviewing the literature the researcher found that dental anxiety affects patient compliance, their overall health, and willingness to attend regular dental visits. The purpose of this …

Outcomes Of Speech And Language Pilot Program For International Students, Kelly Fussman

Mahurin Honors College Capstone Experience/Thesis Projects

Universities in the United States host a substantial number of international students every academic year. As of the 2015-2016 academic year, Western Kentucky University, located in south-central Kentucky, alone hosts over 1,400 international students. These students often face a number of challenges upon arrival in the United States, especially when it comes to language and cultural differences. A considerable body of research indicates that international students’ educational performance and outcomes are significantly impacted by their cultural identities, psychological and sociocultural experiences, and attitudes in relation to English-speaking societies. Many international students attribute academic and social difficulties to a lack of …

Get In The Zone: A Survey Of Dental Professionals' Knowledge Of Ozone Therapy, Emily Hannah

Mahurin Honors College Capstone Experience/Thesis Projects

Ozone therapy has been used in medicine for many years to treat a variety of ailments. Ozone is an unstable triatomic molecule made up of three oxygen atoms. This molecule has the ability to kill bacteria, fungi, parasites, and viruses. The researcher first was curious if there has been research done on uses of Ozone Therapy in the dental setting. After reviewing the literature there is indeed a use for Ozone Therapy to treat a host of dental problems including periodontal disease, ulcers, and carious lesions (also known as cavities). However, there are conflicting conclusions in the literature as to …

The Effect Of Cheese On The Ph Levels In The Oral Cavity, Madison R. Hayden

Mahurin Honors College Capstone Experience/Thesis Projects

In the Fall of 2014, research was conducted with 20 participants on the campus of Western Kentucky University. Participants were given two ounces of Coca Cola^® to drink and the pH level in their mouth was tested one minute later. After waiting a minute, the participants were given a one ounce square of mild cheddar cheese to eat and the pH level was tested again one minute later. For further study, this project will be expanded to include more subjects as well as an increased exposure time to Coca Cola^®. This research is conducted to help support …

The Correlation Of Childhood Obesity And Dental Caries In South Central Kentucky, Christina Guthrie

Mahurin Honors College Capstone Experience/Thesis Projects

Does obesity have an effect on dental caries in South Central Kentucky Previous research has presented information stating a high prevalence of tooth decay found within the state of Kentucky. In addition, studies have indicated an elevated rate of childhood obesity found within the region. As a future dental hygienist in Kentucky, it is important to understand if a correlation exists between tooth decay and childhood obesity to better educate both patients and caregivers. The investigation will utilize a sample of patient records through a retrospective collection process. A correlation of dental caries and childhood obesity is expected to be …

Subgingival Air Polishing In Dentistry, Chelsea T-P. Howell

Mahurin Honors College Capstone Experience/Thesis Projects

Modern statistics have shown that periodontal disease is highly prevalent in today’s society. Periodontal disease has detrimental effects to the oral cavity, including: bone less, recession, and tooth mobility. A strong correlation has been linked to the use of the subgingival air polisher on patients with active periodontal disease and the regression of the disease after being treated with the device. This is being compared to traditional hand-scaling beneath the gingiva margin which is less efficient in removing biofilm subgingivally. Recent studies (Petersilka et al.) are confirming this to be true by treating patients with both hand-scaling and the subgingival …

Bone Stimulation Implemented Using The L-Prf Technique Within The Clinical Setting In Kentucky And Tennessee, Kyndall A. Hudson

Mahurin Honors College Capstone Experience/Thesis Projects

Leukocyte Platelet Rich Fibrin (L-PRF) is an autologous graft that is obtained from the patient’s blood. This provides a condensed network of fibrin that is saturated with cytokines, growth factors, and platelets. L-PRF speeds up the healing process and also optimizes bone grafting results.

Dental treatment options are expanding and new techniques within the office setting are constantly being developed. Present treatment modalities can assist with the stimulation of tissue formation after dental surgical procedures, leading to various results. The placement of L-PRF provides enhanced healing following specific dental procedures using the patient’s donor tissue; therefore, reducing the opportunity for …

Barriers To Care And Buyer Behavior In Relation To Oral Hygiene, Allison E. Mccutchen

Mahurin Honors College Capstone Experience/Thesis Projects

How much of an impact do advertising, brand loyalty, and socioeconomic status have on the overall oral-health knowledge and dental care product purchases of consumers? A survey was distributed to collect data on consumers’ background, oral hygiene purchasing habits, and decision making rationales. It was assumed that those with minimal access to care and minimal oral-health knowledge would be purchasing products based on sale prices, or the promise of improved esthetics, whereas consumers with increased access to care would likely make their purchasing decisions based on the recommendations of a dental professional and be potentially more interested in trying new …

The Importance Of Educating Dental And Dental Hygiene Students On The Correlation Between Vitamin D Deficiency And Dental Caries, Sara Brown

Mahurin Honors College Capstone Experience/Thesis Projects

Recent studies from the U.S. National Library of Medicine have shown that vitamin D deficiency is rapidly increasing among the adult population. Vitamin D deficiency has many effects on the body, such as bone pain and muscle weakness. A strong correlation has been noticed in humans with vitamin D deficiency and decreased exposure to natural sunlight, which is vital to absorb the vitamin D they have ingested. Those suffering from milk allergies or are following a strict vegan diet may also have some implication of a vitamin D deficiency. Recent studies (Hujoel, 2012) have also shown that there is a …

Electronic Cigarettes: A New Generation Of Smoking, Claire M. Warren

Mahurin Honors College Capstone Experience/Thesis Projects

Electronic cigarette smoking is a trend that has become very popular in the United States in recent years. As e-cigarettes continue to gain popularity, it is important for dental professionals to be up-to-date on the dangers that they pose.

An interview session consisting of a questionnaire was the methodology used in this study. Ten dental hygienists who work full or part-time in private practice settings were interviewed. After the interview questions were asked, the researcher discussed the effects of electronic cigarettes can have on oral and overall health. Last, the data were analyzed to determine if dental hygienists included electronic …

An Assessment Of What Factors Affect The Average Number Of Caries Seen Per Visit Among Children Visiting A Mobile Dental Unit In South Central Kentucky, Breion Douglas

Mahurin Honors College Capstone Experience/Thesis Projects

Background: Dental caries is the single most common chronic childhood disease in Kentucky affecting 20% of preschoolers, 50% of second graders, and 75% of 15 year olds. Dental caries, also known as tooth decay, occurs when bacteria from salivary glands produce an acid to breakdown food. If this acid is not cleaned off the teeth, it can destroy the tooth enamel. Dental problems can be linked to the inability to pay for dental care (i.e. insurance), limited access to dental providers, and parental inability to take their children to dentists. To help address the issue with tooth decay seen among …

Hookah: A Fun Fad Or Harmful Habit?, Amy Gee Broadrick

Mahurin Honors College Capstone Experience/Thesis Projects

Hookah smoking has been a well-known activity in the Middle East for hundreds of years. More recently, hookah has become a worldwide phenomenon, especially in the United States of America. It is important to know why people choose this habit, and specifically why teenagers and young adults are becoming the main frequent users.

An interview session consisting of a questionnaire was the methodology used in this study. This session involved a total of twenty individuals. Ten of these individuals were people who actively participated in smoking hookah. The other ten subjects were individuals who do not engage in hookah smoking. …

Factors Involved In Early Age Dental Visits, Lillian Brooke Mcneal

Mahurin Honors College Capstone Experience/Thesis Projects

Today, more children are diagnosed with Early Childhood Caries (ECC) than at any other time in modern history. It is noted that Early Childhood Caries (ECC) is now the most common infectious disease among children and occurs 5 times more than asthma (America Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, 2014). Considering the extent of this disease, it is imperative to determine the cause of it and factors involved in the control.

In order to begin this study, one must first analyze different patients and their living conditions, along with the frequency of dental visits and when the first dental visit occurred. What …

Improving Access To Care: Mobile Dental Units, Caitlin Stephens

Mahurin Honors College Capstone Experience/Thesis Projects

Despite efforts to improve oral health, untreated childhood tooth decay continues to be a major concern in the state of Kentucky. It is said that an estimated 42.8 percent of children in Kentucky suffer from early childhood caries (ECC) before the age of five and 39.3 percent of these children have never been in a dental office (The Kentucky Oral Health Summit). Another study conducted revealed that approximately 20 percent of preschoolers, 50 percent of second graders and 75 percent of 15 years olds are affected by untreated tooth decay (Kentucky’s Dental Access Summit, 2013). What are the major issues …

Hispanic Health Initiative: Creating A Sustainable Health Fair For An Immigrant Community, Chaz Arnold

Mahurin Honors College Capstone Experience/Thesis Projects

Previous demographic and social interest research conducted in Bowling Green, Kentucky has prompted concern for access to quality healthcare for immigrant populations, specifically for the Hispanic community. The missions of the preliminary investigation and subsequent implementation of a sustainable health fair for the Spanish-speaking community were to assess the primary health concerns that many Hispanics face and offer long-term solutions to collectively resolve these health issues. Preliminary investigation involved researching population-specific health statistics in order to quantify prevalence of certain conditions which were, in turn, prioritized in terms of necessity to address. Further research reflected personal concern from the target …

Critical Analysis Of The Kenyan Healthcare System And Models For Improvement, Justin Wellum

Mahurin Honors College Capstone Experience/Thesis Projects

Global epidemics such as malaria, tuberculosis, and HIV/AIDS plague developing countries in Africa. International aid has been given to these countries from public and private organizations in an effort to eradicate these health crises. My research focuses on Kenya as a model for assessing the current state of health care in these developing countries. The effectiveness of Kenya’s health care system was investigated at every level, including central, provincial, district, and rural, by visiting the country and performing specific research. Based on my research, I propose a model that I believe Kenya or any African developing country could adopt to …

Empowering The World Through Dentistry, Charles W. Vittitow

Mahurin Honors College Capstone Experience/Thesis Projects

Dentistry is a very specific trade that one develops after years of education and training. With this skill comes a great amount of power and opportunity to serve, and with great skill comes great responsibility. Many dentists have decided to answer the call of third world countries that lack proper health care and specifically dental care. They do this in a variety of ways from sending supplies, supporting a local clinic financially, or traveling to the country for a short-term trip where they provide dental care to as many patients as they are physically able to for 7 to 10 …