Digital Commons Network^™

Implementing Donna Wright’S Competency Model For Enhancing Nursing Professional Development In Pediatric Perioperative Units, Justin C. Chu

Master's Projects and Capstones

Background Hundreds of thousands of deaths occur in hospitals annually due to preventable adverse events. As literature shows nurse competency is positively associated with improved patient outcomes, it is the mission of any healthcare organization to continually improve staff competency. Bay Area Children’s Hospital X is looking to adopt the Donna Wright Competency Model (DWCM) to change the way they approach this process, transitioning from traditional methods of manager-selected competencies to a collaborative, shared governance approach. Objectives Utilizing the DWCM, the project goal is to enhance competencies among 90 nurses in pediatric perioperative units. The ultimate goal is to create …

Food Security And Its Impact On Hypertension In Urban Communities, Lauren M. Nobriga

Master's Projects and Capstones

The Quality Improvement Team proposed an intervention to increase enrollment in the Food Security Program, a six-month initiative that provides vouchers redeemable for fruits and vegetables. Long-term impacts of this Program include an improved food economy and enhanced patient disease management autonomy. This project aimed to increase the percentage of eligible adult medicine clinic patients enrolled in the Food Security Program by 25%, or 11 patients per month, based on the mean enrollment for the first four months of the Program (May to August) of nine patients. The intervention was based on bi-monthly performance reports, making the goal include enrolling …

Food Security And Its Impact On Hypertension In Urban Communities, Lauren M. Nobriga

Master's Projects and Capstones

The Quality Improvement Team proposed an intervention to increase enrollment in the Food Security Program, a six-month initiative that provides vouchers redeemable for fruits and vegetables. Long-term impacts of this Program include an improved food economy and enhanced patient disease management autonomy. This project aimed to increase the percentage of eligible adult medicine clinic patients enrolled in the Food Security Program by 25%, or 11 patients per month, based on the mean enrollment for the first four months of the Program (May to August) of nine patients. The intervention was based on bi-monthly performance reports, making the goal include enrolling …

Understanding Anatomy & Physiology Students’ Knowledge And Perceptions Of Learning Sex And Pleasure, Yaileen Velazquez

Honors Capstones

Undergraduate anatomy & physiology (A&P) is an opportune place for future healthcare providers to learn a diversity of topics related to human health and function, including sexual health. However, the current undergraduate curriculum and instruction in A&P classes do not support students in achieving a high level of understanding of sexual health, including sexual anatomy and physiology. Previous studies have shown that college students obtain a mean score of lower than 65% in sexual knowledge tests, with the lowest mean scores on sections concerning sexual anatomy and sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) (Weinstein et al., 2008). Sexual pleasure is an important …

Decision Making And Performance Optimization In Distributed Cyber Physical Networks, Md Sahabul Hossain

Electrical and Computer Engineering ETDs

Cyber-Physical Systems (CPSs) integrate computation, networking, and physical processes, while Cyber-Physical Networks (CPNs) enable communication and coordination among components. With advances in IoT and smart devices, CPSs are increasingly vital for applications such as smart grids, industrial automation, and autonomous vehicles. This dissertation explores decision making and performance optimization in Distributed Cyber-Physical Networks (DCPNs), focusing on efficiency, reliability, decentralization, and security. Using network economic theories (e.g., game theory, contract theory) and machine learning (e.g., Reinforcement Learning, Federated Learning), it addresses key problems: 1) a cost-effective positioning system with Reconfigurable Intelligent Surfaces (RISs) and RL, 2) energy-efficient task offloading in Multi-access …

The San Francisco Cultural Districts Program: A Potential Answer To Fighting Gentrification And Uplifting Culture And Neighborhoods, Boston Rizal Palacios

Undergraduate Honors Theses

As San Francisco neighborhoods are rapidly changing due to gentrification and displacing longtime residents and small businesses, the San Francisco Cultural Districts Program was established in 2018 with the goal to disrupt gentrification by prioritizing the voices of people within these disinvested neighborhoods. Through analyzing government documents, news articles, and conducting personal interviews, I am conducting a hypothesis-generating, qualitative case study on one of the cultural districts, SOMA Pilipinas. This is to determine if the San Francisco Cultural Districts Program is an effective model in giving impacted communities more of a role in decisions about how to best protect their …

The Impact Of Positive-To-Negative Teacher Interaction Ratio On Student Performance, Naomi L. Phillips

Theses and Dissertations

Challenging behavior is a growing problem for teachers. Praise has been promoted as a positive strategy for addressing problem behavior. The ratio of praise-to-correction (positive-to-negative) may be important to the effectiveness of praise. A 4:1 ratio has been recommended as optimal to improve student performance. This ratio has never been experimentally tested. There is little known of the feasibility and social validity for maintaining a high positive-to-negative ratio. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effect of a 4:1 positive-to-negative ratio (PNR) on problem behavior and academic performance of junior high students with an intellectual disability classification in …

Extracting Speech Content From High-Amplitude Background Machine Noise, Curtis L. Garner

Theses and Dissertations

The research presented in this dissertation aims to address the need for improved communication between heavy machinery operators and external personnel, aiming to improve safety and efficiency by overcoming the communication barriers posed by equipment noise and cab insulation. The primary purpose of this research was to develop a hands-free communication system that allows the operator to hear speech from outside the cab without requiring any personal communication devices like radios or headsets. Key objectives included effective speech extraction from ambient noise and accurate estimation of the location of the speaker. Operating without active user control, the system emphasizes clarity …

Human Nature: Exploring The Role Of Design In Skincare Branding, Gus Smith

Honors College Theses

Human Nature is a clean skincare brand aimed at first-time skincare users in their mid-20's that uses a four-step system to provide a simplified approach to high-quality skincareI aim for Human Nature to be an approachable, relatable, trustworthy product for buyers in this demographic, and branding is tantamount to this goal. The research stage of this project focused on other skincare brands and advertising, mapping out where my brand would fit and how it would respond to other brands. As this is a graphic design project, This project includes a cohesive visual identity that communicates the brand, including packaging, web …

Learning Spanish As A Second Language: How Instruction Differs For Spanish In Middle And High School, Megan Lenza

Honors Program Theses and Projects

Although many research articles focus on Second Language Acquisition (SLA) at the university level, few focus on SLA at the middle and high school developmental levels. Nevertheless, in the US, most students begin learning another language at these levels, and it is helpful to determine key factors for enhancing language learning. This project aims to study how the factors of target language (the language of instruction), context (exposure and environment of learning), and technology can promote SLA at the middle and high school levels. In this study, student SLA refers to the process and development of a Spanish as a …

Lindenwood Microbiology Students Present At State Conference, Lindenwood University

Archived Lindenwood Press Releases

No abstract provided.

Angela’S Bakes And Brews: The Business Of Running A Bakery, Angela L. Centeno

Whittier Scholars Program

This project explores the development of a comprehensive business plan for Angela’s Bakes & Brews, a bakery located in Manhattan Beach, California. The plan integrates foundational business and hospitality principles to create a unique concept featuring seasonal pastries and curated beverages. By conducting market research, analyzing competitor offerings, and estimating financial requirements, the project addresses the core question of what it takes to operate a successful small business bakery in the competitive Los Angeles metropolitan area. Emphasizing community connection and customer experience, the plan incorporates innovative marketing strategies, a prime location selection, and long-term growth objectives, including a food truck …

Community-Based Approaches To Promote Uptake Of Sulfadoxine-Pyrimethamine For Intermittent Preventive Treatment Of Malaria In Pregnancy: Midline Findings From Kisumu And Migori Counties, Dennis Matanda, Zoe Nakuya, Stephen Kizito, Francis Obare

Sexual and Reproductive Health, Rights, and Choices

No abstract provided.

Leading Through Language: Understanding How Presidential Leaders At Faith-Based Institutions Issue Sensegiving Statements Within A Social Justice Context, Benjamin Gibbs

Journal of Research on the College President

The landscape of leadership in higher education is becoming increasingly complex (Gagliardi et al., 2017; Jaschik & Lederman, 2016; Wesley et al., 2021). Significant instances of racial violence and geopolitical unrest have instigated conversations and ongoing movements towards greater social justice in American society and on university campuses. With these movements, higher education leaders at faith-based institutions have been called on to communicate and lead within a social justice context, through the act of sensegiving. This qualitative study investigated the perspectives and roles of presidential leaders who have provided communication regarding social justice topics. The purpose of the study was …

Addressing Alcohol Use Disorder In The Outpatient Indigenous Health Clinic Setting, Kylie M. Timmerman

Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) Projects

Background: Alcohol use disorder disproportionately impacts American Indian and Alaska Native (AIAN) populations at higher rates of disease morbidity and mortality. In the primary care setting, few treatment resources are available to patients outside of medication-only options.

Local Problem: While the intervention site (rural Tribal Federally Qualified Health Center [FQHC]) was known to have a well-established medication-assisted treatment (MAT) program for opiate use disorder (OUD), the was a need for alcohol use disorder (AUD) resources.

Methods: A review of current evidence was conducted to explore best practices for addressing AUD in the AIAN outpatient clinic setting.

Intervention(s): A quality improvement …

Gardner-Webb Honors Achievements Of 2024 Summer And Fall Graduates, Office Of University Communications

Gardner-Webb NewsCenter Archive

In Gardner-Webb University’s commencement ceremony on Dec. 13, former N.C. Commissioner of Labor Josh Dobson challenged his audience of over 400 graduates to follow their dreams with all their hearts. Dobson, a 2005 GWU alumnus, served over 14 years as a North Carolina elected leader and recently became the president and chief executive o!icer at North Carolina Healthcare Association (NCHA).

A Comparison Of Discrete-Trial Techniques On Direct Service Provider Productivity, Mackenzie Mansel

Electronic Theses & Dissertations

Early intensive behavioral intervention (EIBI) is one way to remediate social deficits, skill detriments, and problematic behaviors of children diagnosed with ASD (e.g., Cohen et al., 2006; Lovaas, 1987; Smith, 2001; Waters et al., 2020). Effective EIBI includes fast-paced instruction, 35-40 average treatment hours a week, and an early age at the start of intervention (Lovaas, 1981). Positive outcomes of EIBI include fine and gross motor skill acquisition, placement in a typical education classroom, increased language, and decreased problematic behaviors (e.g., Cohen et al., 2006; Lovaas, 1987; Smith, 2001; Waters et al., 2020). One method of EIBI with very little …

Effects Of Mastery Criterion On Response Maintenance, Sydney Mcfall

Electronic Theses & Dissertations

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is characterized as having at least two deficits in areas of functioning such as impaired language development, impaired social development, and the presence of excessive or stereotyped repetitive behaviors or interests (Granpeesheh et. al., 2009). Early and intensive behavioral intervention (EIBI) is an evidence-based practice for remediating deficits in individuals with ASD (Love et. al., 2008). One important component of intensive intervention is defining the mastery criterion, or the point at which a skill has been learned to a sufficient level that allows for maintenance. Mastery criterion is necessary to progress intervention targets on a rapid …

Bridging The Gap: Technology Education For Health Advancement In Older Adults, Shannah M. Gozo

Master's Projects and Capstones

Problem Educational workshops are essential for helping older adults gain the knowledge and skills to live independently. However, at Independent Living Facility A, a lack of resident participation in these workshops was identified through a microsystem assessment with key stakeholders. Engaging more residents is critical for the facility to secure funding for these programs. Aim This project aimed to improve resident engagement in educational workshops by 10%, increasing it from 4.4% to 4.8%, over a 5-week period from October 16, 2024, to November 13, 2024. Methods A 5P Microsystem assessment highlighted resident participation in workshops. To address this, Master of …

Practicing Responses To Acute Clinical Troubles: Initiative Through Clinical Education (P.R.A.C.T.I.C.E.) To Improve Medical Emergency Response Increasing Nurse Confidence And Preparedness Through Low-Stakes Clinical Education, Lauren Castelblanco Rn, Viviana Lopez Rn, Nosa Odiase Rn, Everly Pompa Rn

Master's Projects and Capstones

A newly established pediatric outpatient infusion center in Los Angeles does not have immediate access to a Code Blue Team or a Rapid Response Team, and instead relies on the Staff Assist protocol to manage medical emergencies. Via direct interviews, registered nurses at the infusion center report feeling underprepared and lacking confidence to respond to medical emergencies that must be escalated to code blue. Microsystem assessment tools determined the root cause to be limited clinical exposure and limited opportunities for skills development. To address the nurses' concerns, Practicing Responses to Acute Clinical Troubles: Initiative through Clinical Education (P.R.A.C.T.I.C.E.) was implemented …

Journey To Baby-Friendly Designation: Standardizing Infant Feeding Education, Jasmine Geronimo Ibay

Master's Projects and Capstones

Problem The influence of formula companies in hospitals has caused a decrease in national breastfeeding rates, increasing risks of adverse health outcomes among infants. In response, the World Health Organization (WHO) and the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) launched the Baby-Friendly Hospital Initiative (BFHI) in 1991 to support breastfeeding practices for infant development and eliminate commercial interests of formula companies from hospitals. Context The quality improvement (QI) project was conducted at Hospital A’s Birth Center, serving a diverse population of patients in the greater East Bay of Northern California. The microsystem has 24 labor beds, 13 antepartum beds, and 33 …

Chronic Disease Screening And Detection In Vulnerable Populations, Courtney J. Seman, Hussein Hadid, Tania Jaimes, Robert Walls

Master's Projects and Capstones

This quality improvement project aims to address gaps in chronic disease screening by implementing standardized protocols for diabetes, hypertension, vision impairment, and scoliosis within the University of San Francisco (USF) Nurse-Led Clinic in Orange County. Problem: The clinic identified a lack of screening practices, which limited early detection and intervention for two specific vulnerable populations. Context: The clinic serves two high-risk groups: older adults, including formerly homeless individuals, and children in two local grade schools. These populations face significant healthcare disparities, making early detection of chronic conditions critical. Interventions: Guided by Kotter’s Change Theory, the project developed and implemented evidence-based …

Reducing The Incidence Of Nosocomial Aspiration Pneumonia In Adult Oncology Patients Through Improved Compliance With Oral Hygiene Protocols, Rickey Maung

Master's Projects and Capstones

Objective: Oncology patients undergoing chemotherapy are at increased risk of mucosal barrier injuries and aspiration pneumonia, with current aspiration pneumonia rates exceeding target levels. Enhanced oral hygiene protocols and improved compliance have been shown to reduce these complications in this vulnerable population.

Context: The microsystem under review comprises six oncology units within Hospital A, a major medical center in California. Aspiration pneumonia, frequently linked to mucosal barrier injuries, poses a significant threat to patient safety and increases treatment costs and complications in oncology care. Recognizing the critical need to address this issue, an aspiration pneumonia task force has prioritized efforts …

Increasing Access To Fresh Fruits And Vegetables At An Urban Clinic: A Quality Improvement Project, Jordan Michael Leahy

Master's Projects and Capstones

The microsystem setting for this quality improvement project is an adult health unit at one of five safety net clinics housed within a macrosystem in a large urban setting in Northern California serving a low-income, predominantly Hispanic population. Professionals involved in the delivery of the food security program include patient support services, medical assistants, case managers, health promoters, registered nurses, and providers. With enrollment in clinic’s food security program significantly lower than program goals, clinical site stakeholders sought to identify and address gaps in delivery. This quality improvement aimed to improve the screening process to increase the percentage of eligible …

Improving Mood Scores With Social Robot Dog ‘Pupper’ In Pediatric Cardiovascular Patients, Alyssa Lopez

Master's Projects and Capstones

Objective Pediatric hospitalization has been shown to increase the risk of developmental delays, social isolation, and mental health disorders. Consequently, decreased happiness also results from hospitalization, leading to reduced motivation and less engagement in their care. Aim The aim of this project is to improve the mood of pediatric patients aged 3-25 years by 50% from the patient’s baseline level within one month, from October 16, 2024 to November 13, 2024, on a pediatric cardiac step down unit by utilizing a social robot dog to motivate patients in engaging in their care. Methods Twelve participants between the ages 4-18 years …

Sleep To Heal: Creating A Quiet At Night Environment, Victor Marie V. Blardony

Master's Projects and Capstones

Problem: Noise in hospitals disrupts patient well-being, recovery, and satisfaction. A 120-bed community hospital in South San Francisco consistently scored below the national average for nighttime quietness (Medicare, 2023).

Context: Over six months, a multidisciplinary committee launched the Quiet at Night (QAN) Program, focusing on the high-acuity telemetry unit. The program utilized Kotter’s 8 Steps Model and the Institute for Healthcare Improvement Model for Improvement (MFI) to tackle nighttime noise issues.

Interventions: Quiet hours were established from 8:30 p.m. to 6:00 a.m. Patients were provided an “Enhanced Sleep Menu” that included a sleep sound machine and “sleep kits” (eye masks …

Feeding Jersey: A Fresh Look At Food In The Garden State, Zachary E. Zawila

Capstones

New Jersey is the Garden State. The food business is in its nature. But how the state's foodways work, and particularly how they shape the cities of North Jersey, brings vitality to some neighborhoods while leaving others behind. The cities of Orange, Elizabeth, and Paterson have especially interesting food pasts, and particularly promising food futures.

https://sites.google.com/view/feeding-jersey/home

Election Season Capstone, Richard G. Mendez

Capstones

My capstone project takes a dive into politics this election season by looking at the growing Republican party in New York City, how young voters felt about the failed Harris campaign and how Democrats could learn from their mistakes.

Applying Engagement Journalism Methods To Reach Young People In The South Bronx, Christine M. Zeiger Mrs., Judith Marks

Capstones

During the fall of 2024, engagement journalism students Christine Zeiger and Judith Marks met with more than 60 teens in the South Bronx. They also distributed digital questionnaires, which garnered 26 responses from teens and adults between the ages of 14 and 22. These questionnaires were distributed after in-person sessions we organized to gather feedback on topics we wanted to learn about more deeply.

The project’s initial goal was to understand how South Bronx teens and young adults were engaging with the November elections and use their feedback to inform election coverage for the Mott Haven Herald and Hunts Point …

What's It Like To Vote Without Privacy?, Cullen Fagan

Capstones

My capstone is an audio and data project focusing on voting rights for people with disabilities in the United States — specifically how accessibility in voting has changed over time and how it rights have been violated in the recent past. The audio component is a podcast episode I co-produced with another student. It tells the story of how Kathy Collins and Dr. Sharon McLennon Wier, two disability and voting rights activists, have voted over the years, leading up to the 2024 election. The data component is a table detailing the history of disability voting rights cases in the United …