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Impact Of Diet Quality And Functional Food (Honey) On Gut Microbiota And Metabolic Health In Obesity, Sarah M. Eaton

Dissertations and Doctoral Documents, University of Nebraska-Lincoln, 2023–

Understanding the impact of dietary patterns and functional foods on human health is crucial for the advancement of evidence-based nutrition choices. This dissertation investigates the effects of three a priori-defined healthful dietary patterns as well as a functional food, specifically Manuka honey, on gut health and metabolic markers in individuals with overweight and obesity. Two studies were conducted to explore these relationships. The first study, a post-hoc, cross-sectional analysis, compared the effects of three healthful dietary patterns: Healthy Eating Index-2010 (HEI-2010), Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension (DASH), and Mediterranean Dietary Pattern (MDP) on markers of intestinal permeability and gut microbiota …

Dental Disparities: An Analysis Of Dental Caries Risk Factors Promoting Disparities Between Rural And Urban Communities In Nebraska, Nick Lounsbery

Honors Program: Senior Projects (Public)

The prevalence of dental caries in the United States remains a public health concern, as it is one of the most common chronic conditions across people of all ages. Research shows that preventative measures including brushing, fluoridated water, and regular checkups are effective strategies to mitigate tooth decay. However, there appears to be a divide between rural and urban populations, as the presence of dental cavities is significantly greater in remote areas in the State of Nebraska. Research methods used in this analysis included analyzing accredited academic literature to illustrate how cavities form from a biochemical perspective. Research methods also …

Advanced Screening For Intimate Partner Violence To Prevent Adverse Pregnancy And Maternal Outcomes, Emilia R. Valdez

Nursing | Student Research Posters

Background: Intimate Partner Violence experienced by pregnant individuals contributes to adverse pregnancy outcomes and maternal health. A mother’s exposure to Intimate Partner Violence (IPV) can affect their ability to carry a healthy pregnancy to term (38 – 40 weeks gestational age) and places them at risk for comorbidities including; Preterm birth, Intrauterine Growth Restriction, Low Birth Weight/ Small for Gestational Age, Premature Rupture of Membranes and Miscarriage. The incidence of IPV screening is not accessible to all pregnant individuals due to healthcare providers lack of education, time constraints in the workplace, bias and discomfort towards IPV. The implementation of …

Soberanía Alimentaria En Huilloc, Perú: Percepciones Comunitarias Sobre Wasi Mikuna Y Los Límites De Las Políticas Públicas En Contextos Campesinos Indígenas, Mindy Yan

Peru: Indigenous Peoples and Globalization

This investigation presents an assessment of the state of food sovereignty in the community of Huilloc, Peru based on their practices of food production and consumption as well as the implementation of Wasi Mikuna, a state program to provide food to public schools. Using an ethnographic approach, data was collected through semi-structured interviews and participant observations with farmers, shopkeepers, educators, and families of the community over the course of nine days of fieldwork. Huilloc—an indigenous town of the High Andes located in Ollantaytambo, a district in the department of Cusco, Peru—is characterized by an extensive agricultural tradition. The transition to …

From Policy To Perception: How Government Motivations Shape Front-Of-Package Nutrition Labeling And Influence Consumer Understanding In The Usa, Switzerland, And Chile, Amani Malickel

Switzerland: Global Health and Development Policy

This research examines front-of-package nutrition labeling (FOPNL) systems in three distinct policy environments: the United States (voluntary industry-led), Switzerland (government-endorsed voluntary), and Chile (mandatory warning labels). Through comparative policy analysis and consumer interviews, the study evaluates how different regulatory approaches influence nutritional awareness and purchasing behaviors. Key findings demonstrate that Chile's mandatory warning labels are most effective at reducing consumption of unhealthy foods and improving consumer understanding, particularly among children. In contrast, voluntary systems in the U.S. and Switzerland show limited impact due to inconsistent implementation and industry resistance. The study highlights significant implementation challenges, including First Amendment concerns in …

Mexico’S Ngos: Medical Mission Network Mexico Red Materno Infantil’S Effectiveness And Strategy Employed To Combat Maternal Mortality In Mexico., Yadira Gonzalez

Switzerland: Global Health and Development Policy

This qualitative case study investigates the role of two non-governmental non-profit organizations. Medical Mission Mexico is a non-profit civil association in Chetumal, Quintana Roo and Red Materno Infantil is a civil society organization in Mexico City. Through expert interviews and case study analysis this research explores how each organization implements strategies tailored to the distinct needs of urban and rural populations. The findings reveal that while both organizations work toward the same maternal health outcomes, their methods are different but still focus on education, community trust, and advocacy. This paper emphasizes the value of these organizations, their strategies, and the …

The Impact Of The National Teacher Shortage On The Right To An Adequate Education, Anslee Wood

The Journal of Law and Education

No abstract provided.

Innovative Soil Classification Approach For Achieving Global Biodiversity Framework Utilizing Integrated Data Fusion Of Emit And Multispectral Satellite Observations: Case Study Of Imam Turki Bin Abdullah Royal Reserve, Kingdom Of Saudi Arabia, Hesham Morgan, Ali Elgendy, Surendra Maharjan, Wenzhao Li, Tamer Ismail, Yehya Kh. Shehadeh, Ahmed Elgharib, Ahmed Abdullah Al-Dughairi, Ali El Muburak, Khaled Allam Harhash, Hesham El-Askary

Mathematics, Physics, and Computer Science Faculty Articles and Research

Soil classification is essential for sustainable land management, ecological conservation, and combating desertification, particularly in arid and semi-arid regions. This study integrates hyperspectral data from the Earth Surface Mineral Dust Source Investigation (EMIT) and multispectral imagery from Sentinel-2 to achieve accurate soil classification for the Imam Turki bin Abdullah Royal Reserve (ITBA) in Saudi Arabia. Using advanced Machine Learning (ML) techniques, including Extreme Gradient Boosting (XGBoost), the study highlights the power of data fusion in addressing the limitations of standalone remote sensing methods. The integration of hyperspectral and multispectral data combines the spectral richness of hyperspectral imaging with the spatial …

Opportunistic Mount Rainier And Adam's Climb Pilot Study: Developing Methodological Framework For Monitoring Hydration Status In Acute Mountainous Environments​, Stella Organek

2025 Research and Creative Activity Day Posters

No abstract provided.

Healthcare Providers' Perspective On Breastfeeding In Alaska, Akela Byrne

2025 Research and Creative Activity Day Posters

No abstract provided.

Christine Heller's Legacy And The Potential For Integration Of Traditional Knowledge Labels, Channing Buckmaster

2025 Research and Creative Activity Day Posters

No abstract provided.

What Happens When Teachers Explore Choice In Low-Choice Educational Environments? A Holistic Case Study On Classroom Autonomy., Jamie Renee Millican Johnson

Student Theses and Dissertations

Scripted curricula are standard in most classroom environments to provide classroom equity and standard alignment for student success. While scripted curricula are used in classrooms, student achievement is stagnant. The purpose of this holistic case study is to examine how teachers who work within the constraints of a mandated curriculum plan find and enact ways to offer students choices. It will assess whether teachers observe a shift in students’ attitudes, engagement, and motivation as their teachers participate in such work. This study will explore the significance of choice through nine teachers' experiences in book study sessions on classroom choice and …

Gender Apartheid Under The Taliban: Key Elements Of An Ideology Designed To Disempower Afghan Women, Ilias Bantekas, Asiya Karimi

William & Mary Journal of Race, Gender, and Social Justice

Despite its frequent use since 2021, the notion of ‘gender apartheid’ is misconceived in terms of existing international law. The type of abhorrent policies pursued by the Taliban regime against women and girls is best conceived as gender-based persecution. Even so, there is no reason why a new and distinct international crime of gender discrimination cannot be established through soft law, domestic law, or treaty-making in order to preserve the plight of women and girls around the world who are subjected to collective discriminatory practices that deny them fundamental human rights. The crime would arise where the discriminatory practices in …

Implementation Of Sskin Care Bundle Protocol For Pressure Ulcer Prevention In Trc Facility, Susan N. Omare Dnpc-Rn, Mba/Hcm, M.Sc.-Hcq, B.Sc-It

Doctor of Nursing Practice Projects

Background and Significance: A patient outcome that challenges nurse leaders in healthcare settings is the issue of pressure ulcers acquired in the facilities; also known as hospital-acquired pressure injuries (HAPI). Pressure ulcers can lead to patient discomfort, increased morbidity and healthcare costs. Because of chronic conditions, and the dangers of immobility, patients/residents are at risk for developing pressure ulcers, and as such mitigating the risk results in better outcomes for the patients and cost-effective measures. This project was conducted in TRC facility with a focus on the Long-Term Care (LTC) and Rehabilitation units. The setting included 45 beds in LTC …

Primary Healthcare Teams Diabetes Self-Management Education, Joseph Uke Mha, Msn, Rn

Doctor of Nursing Practice Projects

Background: Primary healthcare teams (PHCTs) comprising physicians, nurse practitioners, physician associates, certified nutritionists, and clinical pharmacists—are essential in managing diabetes and its complications. Due to the complex and chronic nature of diabetes, a standardized approach is necessary for effective diagnosis, treatment, management, and referral to specialty care.

Objectives: This project aimed to assess and improve primary healthcare teams' knowledge of diabetes self-management education (DSME) related to treating and managing diabetes in veterans receiving care at the Community-Based outpatient clinic (CBOC) in the mid-Atlantic region of the United States.

Methods: The adapted Michigan Diabetes Knowledge Questionnaire and pre- and post-surveys were …

The Impact Of Exam Stress On College Students' Eating Behaviors And Food Choices, Holly Akati

GW Research Showcase 2021-2026

No abstract provided.

Gsleep: Gut Health And Sleep Quality Across Young Lean Women With Distinct Fitness Levels, Andrea Osorio, Jordyn Walters, Shery Kamel, Carolina Ferraiuoli, Felipe Cabello, Amika Yamada, Carmen P. Ortega-Santos

GW Research Showcase 2021-2026

No abstract provided.

Impact Of Irritable Bowel Syndrome On Total Joint Arthroplasty, Jack Parker, David Tan, Bradley Anderson, Ariel Kesick, Rachel Ranson, Jordan C. Villa, Robert Sterling

GW Research Showcase 2021-2026

No abstract provided.

Outcomes Of A Randomized Controlled Trial Testing The Feasibility, Acceptability And Preliminary Efficacy Of A Digital, Coach-Assisted Intervention To Enhance Hope And Quality Of Life Among Young Adult Cancer Survivors, Afrah Howlader, Palash Bhanot, Darcey M. Mccready, Pamela S. Hinds, Maureen E. Lyon, Kyla Dennis, Sheena Shajan, Pavani Chalasani, Ami Chitalia, Hannah Arem, Carla J. Berg

GW Research Showcase 2021-2026

No abstract provided.

Chemo Brain: A Systematic Review Of Lifestyle Interventions, Aryan Asemani Bs, Shayna Davis Bs, Leslie F. Davidson Phd, Msed, Patrick Corr Phd

GW Research Showcase 2021-2026

No abstract provided.

Dirty Water, Breanna Booker, Michael S. Sinha

William & Mary Environmental Law and Policy Review

There are tens of thousands of unregulated industrial substances manufactured and used in the United States. This Article focuses on three specific to plastic and its manufacturing process: microplastics, phthalates, and BPAs. These substances have been attributed to many known health harms and potentially more that have yet to be identified. The research is still nascent and continues to evolve, but what we do know is who is creating the problem. From big oil companies and plastics manufacturers, to creators of textiles and tires, to investors who all contribute to the problem, how can we hold these accountable for the …

Stopping A Cat-Tastrophe: States Must Develop Stricter Management Regimes For Controlling Feral Cat Populations, J. Cameron Niemeyer

William & Mary Environmental Law and Policy Review

This Note will explore the feral cat crisis in the United States and offer a set of potential solutions using existing regulatory frameworks and invasive species management regimes. Part I will discuss what invasive species are and how feral cats fit into the wider problem of invasive species. Part II will then provide an overview of the current statutes, rules, and decisions that govern invasive species management in the United States. Part III will provide an overview of the management techniques for several common invasive species in the country, and compare those techniques to how the United States manages feral …

Automated Plant Morphological Assessment And Microbial Community Monitoring In Simulated Lunar Regolith, Collin R. Topolski

Doctoral Dissertations and Master's Theses

Upcoming lunar bases will need to leverage in-situ resources to ensure long-term sustainability and reduce mission costs. One key challenge is food production, which could be addressed by growing crops in lunar regolith-based substrates. However, lunar regolith lacks essential nutrients, requiring organic amendments to support continuous plant cultivation. This study examined the impact of manure-amended lunar regolith simulant on Mizuna mustard growth while assessing microbial community diversity and functionality. To support this effort, a custom software pipeline utilizing an open-source library, PlantCV, was developed to automatically track plant leaf area and height via image analysis. Results indicated that amended rhizosphere …

Smart End Effector Docking System, Matthew Becker, Julie Corey, Mia Gallarate, Rachel Lee, Adam Shpolyansky

Mechanical Engineering Senior Theses

The Smart End Effector Docking System (S.E.E.D.S.) serves as an autonomous docking system to assist with replenishing fluid and charging the Agricultural Robot (AgBot) that has been developed by the Robotic Systems Laboratory. The docking system aims to improve autonomous capabilities by allowing the AgBot to recharge and transfer fluid independently, removing the need for human involvement. The S.E.E.D.S. project can additionally help to address labor shortages and safety hazards associated with agricultural workers by providing several functions including fluid transfer and power transfer for charging.

Nicotine Promotes Angii-Induced Abdominal Aortic Aortopathies In Female And Male Mice, Mark Ensor, Sean E. Thatcher, Kristen Mcquerry, Kory Heier, Heba M. Ali, Victoria English, Lisa A. Cassis, Yasir Alsiraj

Biostatistics Faculty Publications

Cigarette smoking is a risk factor for abdominal aortic aneurysms (AAAs), with studies suggesting a higher smoking-related AAA risk in women than men. We examined nicotine’s effects on angiotensin II (AngII)-induced AAAs in male and female low-density lipoprotein receptor-deficient (Ldlr^-/-) mice. Moreover, we defined effects of gonadectomy (GDX) of both sexes on nicotine-induced regulation of AAAs. Male and female Ldlr^-/- mice (8–12 weeks of age) were infused with AngII with or without nicotine. Mice underwent sham or GDX surgeries prior to infusions of AngII and nicotine. In males, one or both testes were removed. AAA incidence, size, …

The Antelope, University Of Nebraska At Kearney

The Antelope

No abstract provided.

Role Of Race And Ethnicity In The Development, Diagnosis, And Treatment Of Gestational Diabetes Mellitus, Gabrielle D. Shupard

Senior Theses

Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is the most common metabolic disorder of pregnancy, and rates of this disease have been steadily increasing over the past ten years. GDM disproportionately impacts racial and ethnic minorities at higher rates than their Caucasian counterparts. In this study, the PRECEDE model framework was employed during a literature review to gain a greater understanding of the complex risk factors contributing to differences in the development, diagnosis, and treatment of GDM among these population subgroups. The second part of this study concentrated on reviewing the extent to which current literature evaluates the role of race and ethnicity …

The Acth Test Fails To Diagnose Adrenal Insufficiency And Augments Cytokine Production In Sepsis, Dan Hao, Qian Wang, Misa Ito, Jianyao Xue, Ling Guo, Bin Huang, Chieko Mineo, Philip W. Shaul, Xiang An Li

Physiology Faculty Publications

The adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) test diagnoses relative adrenal insufficiency (RAI) or critical illness–related corticosteroid insufficiency (CIRCI). Initially, guidelines recommended corticosteroid/glucocorticoid (GC) therapy for septic patients with RAI, but later trials did not show a survival benefit, leading to updated guidelines that abandon targeting RAI or CIRCI. Recent studies with an RAI mouse model showed a clear survival benefit from GC therapy in mice with RAI, suggesting that inconclusive GC clinical trials might be due to issues with the ACTH test rather than targeting RAI. To investigate, we performed the ACTH test in septic mice. Interestingly, the ACTH test identified most …

Program Agenda 4-1-25, Angela Brock

Programs Committee (PC)

No abstract provided.

The Association Between Meeting Physical Activity Guidelines And Anxiety Following The Covid-19 Pandemic; Nhis, 2020 And 2022, Rory Coughlin, Loretta Dipietro, Timothy O'Neal

GW Research Showcase 2021-2026

No abstract provided.