Digital Commons Network^™

The Association Between Osteoporosis In Females Following Menopause And Vitamin D Deficiency, Hadel Kareem Al-Rubaiawi, Noor Adel Hussein, Dunia Abdul Jabbar Star, Amer Hasan Abdullah, Salma Abdul-Ridha Abbas, Hawazin Aziz Hamim

Al-Esraa University College Journal for Medical Sciences

The intricate relationship among osteoporosis, vitamin D deficiency, and hormonal changes. Growth hormone, cortisol, parathyroid hormone, estrogen, testosterone, thyroid hormones, and thyroid hormones are a few of the hormones that affect bone turnover and density. Alterations in their concentrations, whether brought on by healthy aging or illnesses, can interfere with bone remodelling and increase the risk of osteoporosis. Moreover, inadequate levels of vitamin D increase the risk by decreasing the absorption of calcium and the mineralization of bone. Estrogen and vitamin D deficits increase bone loss, especially in postmenopausal women. Proactive treatment techniques, including hormone replacement therapy, vitamin D supplements, …

Association Between Body Mass Index, Vitamin D3 And Lipid Profile In Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus, Eman Ali Hussein, Hulia Kanan Mohammed, Zainab Abduljabbar Ridha Al-Ali, Qater Alnada Jassim Mohammed, Alaa Al-Noori, Tarik Muhammad Ali, Noor Thair Tahir

Al-Esraa University College Journal for Medical Sciences

Dyslipidemia and vitamin D Deficiency are one of the most common disorders among type 2 DM patients, this study was conducted to investigate in the relationship between lipid profile and vitamin D status and body mass index (BMI) Among DM patients in Baghdad province / Iraq. study was madeon 120 subjects (diabetic as well non diabetic). The fasting blood glucose (FBG) levels, glycated HbA1c), lipid profile including total cholesterol, triglycerides, LDL, HDL andVLDL levels and serum vitamin D level were analyzed. Current study observied that the values for FBG, HbA1c, insulin, HOMOIR, TC, TG, HDL, LDL, VLDL, and Vitamin D, …

Effect Of High Protein Diets On Kidney Health Among Athletes And Bodybuilders With Normal Kidney Function, Mustafa Mehdi Alqazzaz, Sajad Abdullah Jleep, Nouran Hussein Mutlaq, Ali Jabbar Jassem

Al-Esraa University College Journal for Medical Sciences

This study emphasizes the effect of high-protein diets(HPD) on kidney function, focusing on key biomarkers (Albumin, Urea, Creatinine & GFR). A HPD is defined as a protein consumption >1.5g/kg per day. Results indicated variations in certain biomarkers among the participants (healthy athletes & bodybuilders with normal kidney function) suggesting potential changes in renal workload. Many studies in resistance-trained athletes focusing at HPD, concluded that there are no harmful effects of HPD on renal health. While no immediate kidney damage was observed, we suggest further investigation into the long -term implications of HPD, particularly for individuals with specific health conditions.

Epidemiology, Classification, Risk Factors, Pathophysiology And Management Of Diabetes Mellitus: A Review, Mohammed Raad Khalaf, Tariq Muhammed Ali, Entedhar K. Hussain, Alaa Al-Noori

Al-Esraa University College Journal for Medical Sciences

Diabetes mellitus is a common metabolic disorder, remains a global health challenge with escalating prevalence rates, necessitating a thorough understanding of its multifaceted aspects for effective management. This review synthesizes current knowledge on the epidemiology, classification, risk factors, pathophysiology, and management strategies of diabetes. The epidemiology highlights the rising global prevalence of DM and its regional variations, emphasizing the socio-economic and demographic factors contributing to this epidemic. The classification provides an in-depth analysis of the evolving classification systems, encompassing Type 1, Type 2, and gestational diabetes. Risk factors associated with the development of diabetes are explored, encompassing genetic predisposition, lifestyle …

The Pivotal Role Of Artificial Intelligence In Optimizing Pharmaceutical Formulation And Delivery, Ali Khidher Abbas, Mustafa M. Noori, Ibtihal Abdulkadhim Dakhil, Mohammed Hussain Al-Mayahy

Al-Esraa University College Journal for Medical Sciences

Artificial intelligence (AI) has emerged as a transformative technological paradigm within the pharmaceutical sciences, offering innovative and forward-looking solutions to surmount the inherent limitations associated with conventional drug development, formulation design, and therapeutic delivery systems. Traditional pharmaceutical methodologies frequently entail protracted development timelines, extensive experimental procedures, and substantial financial expenditures, particularly within the domains of formulation optimization and drug delivery design. The integration of AI-driven technologies – encompassing machine learning (ML), deep learning (DL), artificial neural networks (ANNs), and predictive analytics – has considerably accelerated pharmaceutical research by refining decision-making processes, alleviating experimental burden, and enhancing formulation efficiency. The present …

Clinical Significance Of Liver Enzyme Biomarkers In Chronic Statin Users, Muayad Khaleel Ibrahim, Saad Mahmoud Saeed

Al-Esraa University College Journal for Medical Sciences

It is possible that statins, by their dual capacity to modulate (both stimulate and suppress) immune responses, could play a role in influencing the course of autoimmune diseases. Consequently, our investigation was designed to explore how statins impact both the innate and adaptive branches of the immune system, as well as their effect on the crucial mechanism of self-tolerance. This was achieved through the comprehensive measurement of various antibody profiles, specifically including the detection and quantification of autoantibodies, such as antinuclear antibodies and Creatinine kinase, Aldolase, HMGCR antibody, Albumin and Bilirubin and Alanine transaminase, Aspartate aminotransferase, Our investigation employed a …

Enhancing Sleep Quality Through Sleep Hygiene Education Among Adults In A Faith-Based Community, Denielle Earle-Thompson

Doctor of Nursing Practice Projects

Background

Adults between 18 and 64 years of age require at least seven hours of sleep per night; however, many adults do not meet this recommendation, contributing to increased risks for chronic disease, impaired functioning, mood disturbances, and reduced quality of life. Poor sleep quality has been associated with weakened immunity, cardiovascular disease, diabetes, obesity, anxiety, depression, and decreased daytime performance. Obtaining adequate, good-quality sleep is essential for maintaining overall health and well-being. In faith-based communities, combining health education with spiritual support may provide a holistic approach that addresses both physical and emotional contributors to poor sleep.

Purpose

The purpose …

Staff Education To Improve Knowledge On Delirium Assessment, Prevention, And Treatment, Michelle Lee Coll

Walden Dissertations and Doctoral Studies

No abstract provided.

Best Practices For Interprofessional, Community-Based Interventions In Preventing Type 2 Diabetes Among Adults Aged 50 And Older, Julie Joseph Mrs

Journal of Interprofessional Practice and Collaboration

The prevalence of Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM) is rapidly increasing among adults aged 50 years and older in the United States, posing a significant public health challenge. In 2021, an estimated 38.4 million Americans had diabetes, with adults aged 50years and above constituting a disproportionately large segment of this population. Evidence suggests that community-based lifestyle and educational interventions are effective in reducing the risk of T2DM among older adults. These interventions particularly promote dietary modification, increased physical activity, and diabetes education. Integrating the expertise of nurses, dietitians, pharmacists, physicians, and other professionals through interprofessional collaboration strengthens diabetes prevention and …

Why Are Some Children Under 24 Months Still Undernourished In Urban And Peri-Urban Vientiane? A Mixed-Methods Study, Kethmany Ratsavong, Dirk Essink, Pamela J. Wright Phd, Ms, Med, Rn, Cen, Somphou Sayasone, Sengchanh Kounnavong, Jacqueline E. Broerse

Publications

Child undernutrition remains a significant public health challenge in many low and middle-income countries (LMICs), including Lao PDR, where high levels persist even in urban areas with generally available and accessible food. This study aimed to explore factors underlying the persistently high rates of undernutrition among young children in urban (Saysetha) and peri-urban (Pakgneum) districts of the Vientiane Capital in Lao PDR. A cross-sectional survey employed a sequential explanatory mixed-methods approach, combining a structured questionnaire of 333 mother-child pairs for quantitative analysis with semi-structured interviews of 47 caregivers for qualitative insights. The prevalence of malnutrition among children under 24 months …

The Use Of Pressure-Mapping Technology To Decrease Pressure Injury Prevalence, Acadia Morse Bsn, Rn

Nurse Residency

Does the use of pressure-mapping, as compared to a standard repositioning schedule, decrease the rate of pressure injuries in acute care patients at a high risk of skin breakdown?

Practice With Purpose: The Pediatric Ng/Og Tube Safety Hierarchy, Caitlin Roush, Christine Hajovsky, Delaney Dewolf, Elizabeth Hernandez, Giselle Daclan, Jay Barber, Kris Noel, Kristen Dickey, Lynde Craig, Madeline Herrera, Margaret Willenburg, Mckenzie Pedigo, Melynda Olguin, Myesha Vines, Rhianna Brard, Teresa Wynee

Practice With Purpose

No abstract provided.

Maternal Prenatal Anxiety And Risk Of Preterm Birth And Low Birthweight: Evidence From A Cumulative Meta-Analysis With Stability Thresholds, Bereket Duko, Desta, Biniyam Sahiledengle, Yohannes Tekalegn Efa, Tenaw Tiruye, Lisa Whitehead, Gavin Pereira, Amanuel Tesfay Gebremedhin

Research outputs 2022 to 2026

Background: We conducted cumulative meta-analyses to quantify the degree to which maternal prenatal anxiety impacts preterm birth (PTB) and low birthweight (LBW), and to identify when findings reached stability, enabling confident recommendations for early interventions. Methods: Following PRISMA guidelines, we systematically searched PubMed/MEDLINE, PsycINFO, Scopus, EMBASE, CINAHL (EBSCO), ProQuest, and the Cochrane Library from database inception to May 7, 2025. The methodological quality of included studies was assessed using the Newcastle–Ottawa Scale. Inverse variance weighted random-effects cumulative meta-analysis was performed to pool adjusted odds ratios (AORs) with sequential inclusion of newly published studies. Stability thresholds were computed to assess sufficiency …

Co-Designed Interventions Package For Enhancing Women's Resilience In Reproductive And Child Health Through Income-Generating Associations: A Human-Centered Design Study In Tanzania, Kahabi Isangula, Aminieli Itaeli Usiri, Eunice Pallangyo

School of Nursing & Midwifery, East Africa

Background: Maternal and under-five mortality remain major public health concerns in many low- and middle-income countries, including Tanzania. Despite their widespread use in strengthening economic resilience, income-generating associations (IGAs) have not fully utilized their potential as platforms for addressing reproductive and child health (RCH) challenges.

Objective: This study aimed to co-design an intervention package with women participating in income-generating associations to enhance their preparedness and resilience in addressing RCH challenges in Tanzania.

Methods: A qualitative descriptive study guided by a Human-Centered Design (HCD) framework was conducted in the Arusha and Shinyanga regions of Tanzania. The study followed …

Practice With Purpose Policy Project: The Pediatric Ng/Og Tube Safety Hierarchy, Caitlin Roush, Christine Hajovsky, Delaney Dewolf, Elizabeth Hernandez, Giselle Daclan, Jay Barber, Kris Noel, Kristen Dickey, Lynde Craig, Madeline Herrera, Margaret Willenburg, Mckenzie Pedigo, Melynda Olguin, Myesha Vines, Rhianna Brard, Teresa Wynee

Practice With Purpose

No abstract provided.

Screening Tools For Maternal Mental Health In Africa: A Systematic Review, Joyce Jebet, Irene Mageto, Benard Mutwiri, Abednego Ongeso, Ruth Wagathu, Rose Maina, Denis Munene, Kawira Kithuci, Peter Gatiti

School of Nursing & Midwifery, East Africa

Background:

Maternal health during pregnancy and the postnatal period encompasses mental health, which is a key aspect in enhancing a positive outcome. Despite screening for other possible complications during pregnancy and the postnatal period, very little attention has been paid to screening for mental health. Screening is a key tool in early diagnosis and, eventually, timely diagnosis and management in cases where complications arise.

Aim:

This study aimed to assess the available maternal mental health screening tools and compare the outcome on their utilization during pregnancy and postnatal periods in the African continent.

Methodology:

This was a …

Birth Satisfaction, As Measured By The Birth Satisfaction Scale–Revised (Bss-R), And Its Role In Predicting Breastfeeding Duration, Maternal-Infant Attachment, And Postpartum Depression, Molly Parker

University Honors Theses

Birth satisfaction has been consistently associated with improved maternal outcomes such as reduced postpartum depression (PPD), stronger maternal-infant attachment, and longer breastfeeding duration. However, the extent to which birth satisfaction independently predicts these outcomes remains unclear. This study examined whether birth satisfaction, as measured by the Birth Satisfaction Scale–Revised (BSS-R), predicts postpartum depression, maternal-infant attachment, and breastfeeding duration in a longitudinal cohort.

Data were drawn from the Prenatal Environmental And Child Health (PEACH) study. Birth satisfaction was assessed at 12 months postpartum using the BSS-R. Postpartum depression was measured using the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS), maternal-infant attachment using the …

Exercise Prescription For Adults With Prediabetes In The Primary Care Clinic, Katherine W. Hall

Doctor of Nursing Practice Final Manuscripts

Prediabetes affects approximately one in three adults in the United States, with an estimated 10% progressing to Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM) annually. Despite strong evidence supporting exercise as a first-line intervention to prevent disease progression, most patients in primary care settings do not receive structured physical activity counseling. This evidence-based project (EBP) aims to address this gap by implementing a standardized protocol to assess baseline physical activity levels and deliver individualized exercise prescriptions to adults with prediabetes in the primary care clinic.

Eligible participants, defined by HbA1c values between 5.70% and 6.49%, were identified during routine primary care visits …

Culturally Competent Nurse-Led Education To Reduce Delayed Diagnosis And Increase Awareness Of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome In Reproductive-Aged South Asian Women, Madeeha Syeda

Honors College Theses

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a common condition that affects hormones in women, especially in their 20s and 30s. Symptoms of PCOS include irregular periods, abnormal hair growth, acne, obesity, hyperpigmentation of the skin, cysts, skin tags, thinning hair, and infertility (Newin, 2023). While the exact cause of PCOS is unknown, it is linked to insulin resistance, higher levels of androgens, and low-grade inflammation (Newin, 2023). In regards to complications, PCOS can increase risk for gestational diabetes, preeclampsia, preterm term, and C-section deliveries. In terms of treatment, there is no cure but early diagnosis is key to reducing symptoms (Newin, …

Improving Antihypertensive Medication Adherence Through Education And Follow- Up Phone Calls In A Primary Care Setting, Sarah Peterson

Doctor of Nursing Practice Final Manuscripts

Hypertension affects nearly half of adults and significantly increases the risk of stroke and cardiovascular disease; however, poor medication adherence remains a primary barrier to effective blood pressure management. The purpose of this evidence-based practice (EBP) project was to improve antihypertensive medication adherence among adult patients in a primary care setting. Guided by the Iowa Model of Evidence-Based Practice to Promote Quality Care, the project utilized a pre-test/post-test design at a private practice clinic. The sample included adults with a hypertensive diagnosis and active prescriptions. Medication adherence was defined as the Morisky Medication Adherence Scale (MMAS-8) scores, measured before and …

Reducing Preoperative Anxiety In Patients Undergoing Gynecologic-Oncology-Related Surgeries, Iman Sean Lavine-Richardson

Doctor of Nursing Practice Final Manuscripts

Elevated levels of preoperative anxiety are associated with adverse effects in the postoperative period. Evidence demonstrates the effectiveness of incorporating multimedia into preoperative education to alleviate preoperative anxiety. This project aims to decrease preoperative anxiety levels and increase satisfaction and feelings of preparedness in patients scheduled to undergo gynecologic-oncology-related procedures through the implementation of an evidence-based practice (EBP) informational video. The San Diego 8A’s EBP model was utilized to guide this project. Data was collected, anonymously, through online questionnaires which included the Anxiety Specific to Surgery Questionnaire (ASSQ) to assess anxiety levels and Likert-scale questions to assess satisfaction and feelings …

Optimizing Lactation Support: Enhancing Patient-Centered Care And Breastfeeding Self Efficacy Through Data-Driven Survey Analysis, Jessica L. Doshay

Doctor of Nursing Practice Final Manuscripts

Objective: The objective of this project was to implement evaluation of an integrated lactation support model within a multi‑site pediatric primary care organization to assess patient experience and breastfeeding confidence associated with a lactation consultation.

Background: Optimizing the patient experience is an indicator of healthcare quality. Improving breastfeeding outcomes remains a national priority. Structured lactation support delivered by International Board-Certified Lactation Consultants (IBCLCs) enhances breastfeeding outcomes, the impact of this is often undocumented in primary care settings.

Methods: This quality improvement project was conducted within the lactation department of a multicenter pediatric clinic in Southern California. Pediatric clinicians who were …

Clinician Perspectives On Fistula Mental Health, Victoria K. Leonard

Doctoral Dissertations

Background – Obstetric fistula is a childbirth injury caused by prolonged labor that leads to stillbirth and incontinence, spurring social exclusion and isolation. These layers of trauma put women with fistula at great risk for psychological suffering, which has profound negative socioeconomic impacts on them, their families, and communities. This study captured treatment as usual at Comprehensive Community Based Rehabilitation in Tanzania (CCBRT), the country’s largest provider of fistula care.

Method – Improving holistic fistula treatment requires engaging the clinicians who care for women with fistula. This study aimed to investigate the training, beliefs, and treatment approaches of nurses and …

Assessing Impact Of Heat Waves On Pregnancy And Lactation Amidst Climate Change: A Scoping Review., Susan Anyango, Grace Nakate

School of Nursing & Midwifery, East Africa

Background: The escalation of heat waves, attributed to climate change, represents a global public health concern, with pregnant
and lactating women identified as particularly vulnerable due to Physiological and hormonal changes.

Aim: To review the existing research on the effects of heat waves on pregnancy and lactation, identifying potential health risks and outcomes.

Methods: A structured search across PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Google Scholar was conducted using terms related
to heat waves, pregnancy, lactation, and climate change. Inclusion criteria focused on peer-reviewed empirical
studies in English.

Results: Heat waves are linked to increased risks of preterm labor, low …

Probiotic Intake Related To Hemoglobin A1c Among U.S. Veterans With Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus, Maryann Martin

Walden Dissertations and Doctoral Studies

No abstract provided.

Staff Education To Reduce The Incidence Of Pressure Injury In Medical-Surgical Inpatients, Francis Omelu

Walden Dissertations and Doctoral Studies

No abstract provided.

Improving Nursing Compliance With Pressure Injury Prevention In Postoperative Patients In The Cardiovascular Intensive Care Unit, Chingyi Lam

Doctor of Nursing Practice Final Project Abstract

Pressure injuries acquired in the hospital continue to be a major concern in patient safety among critically ill populations. The purpose of the quality improvement project was to improve nursing compliance with pressure injury prevention strategies among postoperative patients in a cardiovascular intensive care unit (CVICU). Patients who undergo cardiovascular surgery are at a high risk of developing pressure injuries due to immobility, sedation, vasopressors, and prolonged positioning on their backs. The quality improvement project was carried out in a 37-bed CVICU using the Institute for Healthcare Improvement (IHI) Model for Improvement and Plan–Do–Study–Act (PDSA) cycles. Data on nursing repositioning …

Staff Education To Emergency Department Professional Nurses, Florence Chukwuneke Chukwuneke

Walden Dissertations and Doctoral Studies

No abstract provided.

Advancing School-Based Sexual Reproductive Health Education Through A Fifth-Grade Educator Toolkit, Emira Romero

Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) Projects

Background: Although sexual and reproductive health (SRH) education is a critical component of early health literacy and health promotion, educators remain underprepared to deliver this education. Local Problem: A gap analysis conducted at School A, a public elementary school in the San Francisco Bay Area, revealed the absence of a SRH curriculum for their fifth graders. Methods: A Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) student-led quality improvement project to introduce a SRH educator toolkit to increase educator confidence and self-efficacy was conducted at School A among fifth grade teachers. Pre- and post-intervention data were collected on implementation day to evaluate the …

Standardized Pediatric Obesity Screening Guideline For Children Ages 5–17 Years, Jennifer Nacius

Walden Dissertations and Doctoral Studies

No abstract provided.