Digital Commons Network^™

Association Between Carpal Tunnel Syndrome And Amyloid Heart Disease May Assist With Early Detection And Reduced Morbidity And Mortality, Kayla Nachbar, Nicole Kirk, Jaclyn Freese

Celebration of Research

Carpal tunnel syndrome may help identify more systemic issues than previously thought. Multiple research studies establish an association between carpal tunnel syndrome and heart disease, most specifically cardiac amyloidosis. This link is of importance as it requires alternative treatment choices to extend life expectancy for those diagnosed with the disease. Based on this analysis of multiple studies, there may be an indication for a screening criterion in those with carpal tunnel syndrome to identify a previously illusive disease before it progresses. History and certain clinical features may add to the utility of this finding to be applied as a screening …

Prepplates: Meal Prep For Busy Lives, Alec Coronado Garcia, Luc Roelofs, Kade Fey

Celebration of Research

PrepPlates is an innovative meal idea based in Sioux County. Our purpose is clear: to transform the way people approach mealtime by providing not only nourishment but also a comprehensive dining experience suited to their preferences and lifestyles. Our business venture aims to revolutionize the meal kit industry by providing convenient, affordable, and high-quality meal solutions tailored to the preferences and lifestyles of our demographic. Through research and strategic planning, PrepPlates emerges as a beacon of innovation in the competitive landscape of meal preparation services. Rooted in a comprehensive understanding of demographic and market trends, our business model is tuned …

Dementia Worry In A Young Adult Population: Investigating Its Relationships With Anxiety, Coping Strategies, And Memory, Anneka Sterk

Celebration of Research

Dementia worry is a specific form of health-related anxiety in which individuals worry about or fear developing or having dementia. To a severe degree, this may affect their psychological well-being. Previous literature has only studied dementia worry in middle-late aged adults. This study investigated dementia worry in a young adult population and focused on its relationship with possible correlates, coping skills, trait anxiety, and memory. A multiple regression analysis was performed in which only subjective memory and trait anxiety showed significant, positive correlations. All other variables included in the regression analysis showed no significant correlations. There were no significant differences …

How Culture And Language Impact The Way We View Healthcare, Linsy Gonzalez

Celebration of Research

The United States is a growing multilingual and multicultural country. Although beautiful, it does present challenges in different areas of life particularly in the healthcare system as there are differences in language and/or cultural beliefs and practices. This leads to asking how cultural differences can impact how we think of healthcare. To challenge and understand this question more, a qualitative study was conducted based on interviews from two different healthcare facilities located in the same town of Sioux Center, Iowa—Promise Community Health Center (PCHC) and Sioux Center Health (SCH)—with interpreters, patients, and providers to understand the role each person has …

A Shift Towards Informed Decision Making: Hormonal Contraception Versus Natural Cycle Tracking, Lauren Jurrens, Sydnee Isom, Deann Jelsma

Celebration of Research

Females participating in the wide array of birth control options are continuing to expand. With that, more females are expressing concerns about potential adverse drug reactions and side effects of hormonal birth control. While general side effects do occur, the risks for venous thromboembolism (VTE) vary depending on the hormone taken, and cancer risks are minimal to even nonexistent.^3,4,7,15 Yet, many females are turning to natural cycle tracking to avoid synthetic hormones, common side effects, and potential poor health outcomes. Both options can provide comparable efficacy when used appropriately. Therefore, providers must be knowledgeable in all contraception options to …

Muscle Activation Frequency Relationship With Cost Of Transport At Increasing Walking Speed Reveals Interplay Of Both Active And Passive Dynamics, Grace Van Namen

Celebration of Research

The purpose of this study was to examine the correlation between metabolic cost and muscle activity, with a focus on frequency of EMG signals during walking at different speeds. The findings will be valuable in rehabilitating individuals who suffer from gait-related disorders. Nine participants were recruited. In the first session of data collection, each participant performed a ten-meter walk test determining their average walking speed. Using these average walking speeds, six more speeds were subsequently established during the second session. In the second session, subjects walked for four minutes at each of the six speeds while EMG data was collected …

The Impact Of Blood Flow Restriction On Heart Rate And Muscle Activation, Janaya Battles, Rajat Singh, Daniel Swier

Celebration of Research

Blood Flow Restriction (BFR) is a rehabilitation technique used in physical therapy to improve muscle growth in patients. The technique involves using blood cuffs on the limbs to occlude blood flow within the muscles, thus limiting the buildup of muscle growth inhibitors. The current literature provides information regarding these aspects but is limited in providing information regarding the impact of BFR on neural muscular coordination. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to determine how various pressure levels of the BFR cuffs can impact the muscle activation of the restrained muscles and heart rate. Our results have shown that a …

Pediatric Perceived Pain In Emergency Department Settings, Emma Jenness, Ana Dekruyter, Jackson Henry, Emily Miller

Celebration of Research

A literature review between September 2023-November 2023 examined the numerous nonpharmacological interventions employed in the Emergency Department setting to reduce perceived pain in the pediatric population during painful procedures. This review explored

current research for decreasing perceived pain for children using nonpharmacologic methods and to suggest evidence-based practices that meet the needs of the patient. We suggest several nonpharmacologic interventions that assist in decreasing pain during painful procedures in the Emergency Department setting for the pediatric population.

The Gut Microbiome In Chronic Diseases, Emily Mcdonald, Katlyn Bombei, Madelyn Weber

Celebration of Research

Cardiovascular disease, chronic kidney disease, diabetes, and various mental health conditions have been shown to be associated with gut microbiota alterations that may contribute to the development and pathogenesis of those diseases. Cardiovascular disease, inflammatory bowel disease and diabetes have been associated with a lack of butyrate- producing bacteria which are responsible for lowering blood pressure, limiting atherosclerosis, abdominal pain, and lowering insulin resistance. Medications for individuals with schizophrenia may decrease bacteria with anti-inflammatory properties. Potential research avenues may be directed at investigating the di@erences between gut microbiomes between men and women to cultivate unique and targeted treatment and prevention …

Deaths Of Despair In Rural Populations, Tirzah Wittenberg, Dr. Pam Hulstein

Celebration of Research

A literature review was conducted between August 2023-November 2023 to explore deaths of despair in rural and urban populations. The ten articles reviewed center around revealing the prevalence of substance abuse and suicide within different population densities. The purpose of examining this research is to create a foundation of understanding that can then be utilized when making changes on the micro and macro levels in access to health care resources. In this literature review, the prevalence of deaths of despair in rural populations is revealed, along with suggestions for future health care resource investments.

Tranexamic Acid, Jett Skrien, Evan Lins, Kaleb Myhrwold

Celebration of Research

TXA administration has shown promising results in reducing blood loss resulting in a potentially life-saving measure. Early TXA administration has been shown to be most effective when administered within 3 hours of the incident. After the 3-hour window has passed, its effectiveness is negligible. At this point in time, no single superior means of administration or dosage has been agreed upon. Based on the evidence presented, TXA has a notable safety profile and has been proven to be a low-cost and effective way to reduce detrimental blood loss in trauma and surgical settings.

The Adverse Health Outcomes Of Benzene In Skincare Products, Maddie Olson, Allie Walter

Celebration of Research

Benzene is a known carcinogen commonly used in daily skin care products that could have negative physiological effects on the body.

The risks associated with the use of benzene-containing products have been researched, however, current evidence has not fully differentiated whether the potential negative effects of benzene outweigh the protection that benzene products provide against the development of skin cancer.

Energy Drink Consumption In Adolescence Linked To Long Term Health Effects, Grace Eiden, Jenna Borchers, Jill Van Otterloo

Celebration of Research

Caffeine is a substance that is frequently ingested by individuals for a multitude of reasons, most often an energy boost. Recently, caffeine consumption has become popular among the adolescent population. We reviewed 15+ recent studies explaining the adverse effects of caffeine consumption among adolescents such as cognitive function, mental illness, and obesity. Numerous correlations were found including lower scores in several cognitive functions such as vocabulary comprehension, cognitive flexibility, and processing speeds, mental illnesses such as stress, anxiety, and depression, and the immense sugar-content in these beverages being linked to childhood obesity. It is important that healthcare professionals are aware …

Perceived Severity Of Trauma: The Impact Of Gender And Exposure, Macy Hajek

Celebration of Research

The purpose of this study was to examine factors that may influence the perceived severity of traumatic events. Perceived severity scores were examined in a 2x2 factorial ANOVA with the factors of gender and trauma exposure. A qualitative measurement of the most feared trauma was also investigated. Participants were a convenience sample of 98 Northwestern College Students ranging from ages 17 to 22. Perceived severity scores and the most feared trauma were obtained using an adapted version of the Trauma History Questionnaire. A Trauma History Screener was used to divide participants into trauma exposure groups. It was hypothesized that females …

Interventions To Reduce Risk Of Perineal Tearing, Bailey Varpness, Kylie Lyman, Sandra Muyskens

Celebration of Research

Perineal tearing is one of the most common injuries that can be sustained during vaginal delivery, it can be physically and mentally debilitating for the mother to endure. Preventing this injury can lead to an easier healing process for the mother, allowing her to have a more impactful postpartum journey. There is debate as to whether warm compresses, perineal massage, and alternative birthing positions decrease the incidence of perineal tearing. This review of literature focuses on how these interventions work and if they are effective at decreasing the risk for perineal tearing during vaginal delivery.

The Bear Surgical Technique: A Modern Approach To Acl Repair, Christopher Canu, Jay Determan, Aaron Bosch

Celebration of Research

The Bridge-Enhanced ACL Repair (BEAR) surgical technique is a procedure still in its infancy with many unknowns regarding its effectiveness and clinical outcomes. Research has shown this surgical technique is not only capable of completely healing a mid-substance ACL tear but has been shown to have improved clinical and patient-reported outcomes when compared to traditional ACL reconstruction techniques. The purpose of this article is to review the current status of the literature and clinical implications of the BEAR technique as it compares to traditional ACL reconstruction techniques.

Bedside Shift Report, Megan Kellen, Aleksa Vande Hoef, Emma Dunsbergen, Nadalie Johnson

Celebration of Research

A literature review was conducted between August 2023-November 2023 to investigate bedside shift report and its effects on nursing communication, patient safety, and patient satisfaction. Ten articles focusing on the benefits and barriers to performing nurse-to-nurse handoff reports at the bedside were analyzed. Recommendations are made based on the best practices of bedside shift report on medical-surgical units.

Examining The Effectiveness Of Subjective Perception Of Collegiate Athletes, Jakob Francksen-Small, Rajat Singh

Celebration of Research

The purpose of this study was to examine how accurately collegiate athletes can perceive their level of hydration via urine color compared to the actual specific gravity of the urine. The findings will be valuable in determining if visual perception is an accurate enough method for athletes to track their hydration. Thirty-five Northwestern College wrestlers were recruited. Each wrestler was instructed to collect a sample of their urine in a paper cup. Then, they compared their urine sample to a chart, provided by the Iowa High School Athletic Association. They assigned their sample a rating, ranging from 1-8. These ratings …

Melatonin As Treatment And Prophylaxis For Alzheimer's Disease, Avery Macintosh, Kayla Larsen, Andrea Crew

Celebration of Research

Alzheimer’s is a very prevalent disease that has no true dependable and effective treatment. Through research and trials melatonin has been seen as a potential therapeutic option for both structural and behavioral changes in Alzheimer’s. Studies have shown low levels of natural melatonin in CSF are a strong indicator of Alzheimer's Disease. This suggests melatonin could be used as a prophylactic measure as well as a treatment for slowing the disease’s neuropathological changes. Results showed that melatonin improves circadian rhythm and sleep quality leading to more effective glymphatic clearing of free radicals, improving cognition, and decreasing behavioral disturbances.

A New Horizon On Knee Osteoarthritis: A Review Of Alternative Treatment Modalities, Rob Norton, Carlos Serafin-Martinez

Celebration of Research

Purpose: The purpose of this review is to determine the effectiveness and utility of alternative knee osteoarthritis treatments in order to assess their clinical applications compared to traditional NSAID and corticosteroid injection therapy. Methods: We analyzed 23 randomized control trials, systematic reviews, and meta analyses to compare the effectiveness of hyaluronic acid (HA), plasma rich protein (PRP) injections, and mesenchymal stem (MSC) cell injections. The individuals used in this study were over 18 years old, had moderate to severe knee osteoarthritis, and had failed at least 1 form of conservative treatment. Quantitative (imaging studies and ROM testing) and qualitative results …

Semaglutide Vs Bariatric Surgery Usage In Individuals Who Are Obese, Megan Carley, Quincey Bauman, Sandra Muyskens

Celebration of Research

Obesity is a complex health disease with rising prevalence. Comorbid conditions occur as a result of obesity that may be detrimental to an individual’s health. While theoretically preventable, it is a difficult condition to manage due to a wide range of causative factors and comorbidities. There are many options to help with weight loss, but two of the most effective treatments are semaglutide medication and bariatric surgery. A literature review was conducted to compare the risks and benefits of each method and identify the more beneficial intervention for weight loss in individuals with obesity. Each method is efficient for a …

Inventory For Baker-Cederberg/Rochester General Hospital, Rochester General Hospital

Finding Aids

Inventory for Baker-Cederberg/Rochester General Hospital archival record groups. There are 31 record groups listed.

Animal-Assisted Services And Occupational Therapy Within An Australian Context: A Survey Study, Jessica Hill, Carlie Driscoll, Kelly Pearse

People and Animals: The International Journal of Research and Practice

Introduction: The incorporation of animal-assisted services is an emerging field of occupational therapy. There remains varying levels of involvement and knowledge of what is involved in animal-assisted services among Australian occupational therapists. The profession of occupational therapy acknowledges that competence as a clinician requires appropriate education and knowledge guiding clinical decision making.

Research Question: This study aimed to explore the understanding and role of Australian occupational therapists including animal-assisted services in their practice, as well as the changes required to support future service delivery.

Methods: A cross sectional survey was conducted online. Participants were recruited through a digital mailing list, …

The Effectiveness And Perceptions Of Three Moderate Intensity Walking Cadence Aids And Their Effects On Affective States: A Mixed Methods Study, Daniel Brown, Phillip Gray, Julie Doherty, Ellen Ea Simpson

International Journal of Exercise Science

International Journal of Exercise Science 17(5): 531-550, 2024. Substantial health benefits can be derived from walking at a moderate intensity cadence. To help regulate this cadence, three distinct aids exist 1) self-perception; 2) cadence prescription; 3) auditory cues. This study aimed to compare the effectiveness and explore perceptions of these aids to promote moderate intensity walking and effects on affective states, thereby addressing an important research gap. Individualised moderate relative intensity waking cadence was determined for participants (n = 23, M_age = 26.35, SD = 10.11). A convergent mixed-methods design was employed. A within-persons repeated measures design was used …

The Immediate Effects Of Dry Cupping The Lumbar Paraspinals On Range Of Motion And Temperature, Natasha Scavarelli, Paolo Sanzo

International Journal of Exercise Science

International Journal of Exercise Science 17(3): 551-564, 2024. Dry cupping is a therapeutic modality proposed to produce a negative pressure, stretching the skin and underlying tissue. This mechanism is said to promote regional blood flow of oxygenated blood and causing a physiological stretch in the tissue, allowing it to elongate and potentially changing skin temperature. The possible effects of the application to the lumbar spine paraspinal muscles, however, has not been thoroughly examined. The purpose of this pilot study was to explore the immediate effects of dry cupping the lumbar paraspinals on lumbar spine range of motion (ROM) and overlying …

Nutrient Intake, Performance, And Body Composition Of Preseason Wrestlers, Gregory-James Coapstick, Allison Barry, Crystal Levesque, Marni Shoemaker

International Journal of Exercise Science

International Journal of Exercise Science 17(2): 517-530, 2024. College athletes, especially in weight class sports, often experience energy deficits. Athletes competing in weight class sports such as wrestling are at greatest risk for deficiencies and little is known about the relationships between body composition, nutrient intake, and performance in these athletes. The purposes of this study were to (1) quantify macronutrient and micronutrient intake of pre-season male collegiate wrestlers and compare to estimated needs, and (2) examine relationships among nutritional intakes, body composition, and performance measurements of strength and anaerobic capacity. Male Division I wrestlers (n = 11, age: …

Maternal Morbidity In Appalachian States: Rural Disparities And Social Determinants, Kathryn Usedom Msn, Fnp-C, Cnm, Pi-Ming Yeh Phd

Epsilon Sigma at-Large Research Conference

Purpose: Social determinants of health (SDoH) and rurality have both been shown to contribute to severe maternal morbidity (SMM). Appalachian communities often embody this compounded risk, but regional SMM is under-explored. This study’s purpose is to explore SMM in rural areas of Appalachian states.

Aims: There are two specific aims. 1) Describe the prevalence of rural SMM in Appalachian states. 2) Investigate the relationship between SMM and SDoH, specifically income, education, and care access.

Methods: An IRB exempt, descriptive correlational study was conducted. Birth data (2018-2022) were extracted from the CDC WONDER database for 12 Appalachian states. Demographic, income, and …

Nurses' Input On The Nursing Shortage, Patty Harnois-Church, Leann Horsley, Kathryn Wilhoit, Holly Wei

Epsilon Sigma at-Large Research Conference

Nurses’ Input on the Nursing Shortage

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to investigate the views of nurses regarding the nursing shortage in Tennessee.

Aim: To achieve this aim, four focus areas were examined through listening sessions with stakeholders across four regions in the state. These focus areas included addressing the nursing pipeline, developing innovative clinical and academic models, supporting nurses' well-being, and sharing data about the shortage of nurses throughout the state.

Methods: A qualitative descriptive study was conducted using focus group interviews for data collection. The study employed a SWOT (Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, and Threats) analysis approach …

Comparisons Of Spiritual Well-Being, Psychological Well-Being, And Suicidal Ideation Between Usa And Taiwanese College Students, Pi-Ming Yeh Associate Professor, Cheng-Huei Chiao Professor, Jennchang Liou Professor

Epsilon Sigma at-Large Research Conference

Background: In Taiwan, there were 7,038 reports of attempted suicide among people aged 24 or younger in 2018. Anxiety disorders are the most common mental illness in the U.S., affecting 40 million adults in the United States age 18 and older.

Purpose: In this study, we compared United States (US) and Taiwanese college students’ spiritual well-being, psychological well-being, and suicidal ideation.

Methods: A total of 661 college students (481 from the US and 180 from Taiwan) were recruited to complete the survey study. This was a cross-sectional comparative research design. SPSS 28.0 was used to do the data analysis. Chi-square …

Influence Of Ambient Temperature On Autonomic Nerve Function And Peripheral Sensation From Moderate-Intensity Treadmill Exercise, Sunao Wada, Mh Mahbub, Natsu Yamaguchi, Ryosuke Hase, Tsuyoshi Tanabe

International Journal of Exercise Science

International Journal of Exercise Science 17(2): 491-503, 2024. Objective: The main objective was to ascertain the acute responses in autonomic nervous activity and peripheral sensation induced by moderate-intensity treadmill exercise performed under different ambient temperatures. Methods: Twelve young healthy subjects underwent three sessions of moderate-intensity treadmill exercise (warming, 5 min and running, 25 min), on different days under 10°C, 20°C and 30°C room temperatures. Pre- and post-intervention, heart rate variability (HRV) and plantar vibrotactile perception threshold (VPT) were measured. Additionally, rate of perceived exertion (RPE) was recorded after intervention. Results: In comparison with the corresponding baseline values, after intervention, low …