Digital Commons Network^™

Assessing Reliable Change, Mcid, Treatment Response, And Remission Using The Pediatric Anxiety Rating Scale (Pars) In Youth With Anxiety Disorders, Matti Cervin, Philip C Kendall, John C Piacentini, Elizabeth A Gosch, Jeffrey J Wood, Sophie C Schneider, Alison Salloum, Boris Birmaher, Andrew G Guzick, David Mataix-Cols, Eric A Storch

Faculty, Staff and Students Publications

Youth anxiety disorders are common and heterogeneous. The Pediatric Anxiety Rating Scale (PARS) is a clinician-administered tool designed to assess overall anxiety severity, independent of specific symptoms. The thresholds on PARS for the reliable change index (RCI), the minimal clinically important difference (MCID), treatment response, and full and partial remission remain unclear. Using the Clinical Global Impression (CGI) scales and diagnostic interviews as benchmark measures, several thresholds for the 6-item PARS were estimated using data from 904 youth with anxiety disorders, of which 36 % had an autism diagnosis. Data were drawn from 9 clinical trials conducted in the United …

The Hidden Link Between Hiv And Cardiomyopathy: Unraveling Hiv's Impact On The Heart, Toluwalase Awoyemi, Oluwaremilekun Zeth Tolu-Akinnawo, Andrew Greek, Oluwakemi Adenuga, Chukwuebuka Asogwa, Isaac Ekundayo, Olamide Odusola, Oyinlola O. Fasehun, Mercy Ajayi, Onyinye Ugoala

School of Medicine Publications

This comprehensive review examines the complex relationship between human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and cardiomyopathy, focusing on the underlying molecular mechanisms, clinical manifestations, diagnostic approaches, and treatment strategies. It highlights the significant global health burden posed by HIV and its potential to cause long-term cardiovascular complications. The review investigates the pathogenesis of HIV-associated cardiomyopathy. It elucidates the intricate cellular and molecular pathways involved, including the actions of neutrophils, monocytes, macrophages, and lymphocytes in cardiac inflammation. Key signaling pathways such as TNF-NF-κB and the caspase-1 inflammasome are detailed, as they contribute to cardiac infection and injury. The clinical manifestations of HIV-associated cardiomyopathy …

The Effectiveness Of The Project-Based Learning (Pjbl) Model Based On Tiktok Videos In Improving Elementary School Students’ Understanding Of Cultural Diversity Concepts, Putri Fajriani, Encep Supriatna, Mubarok Somantri, Resti Hidayat

Jurnal Pendidikan: Teori, Penelitian, dan Pengembangan

In the 21st‐century digital era, education faces challenges in integrating innovative technologies with relevant curricula, particularly in elementary‐level cultural diversity learning that still relies on traditional methods and lacks engaging media. This study analyzes the effectiveness of integrating Project‐Based Learning (PjBL) with TikTok videos to enhance primary students’ understanding of cultural diversity through a comprehensive systematic literature review. Keyword searches in Google Scholar, Scopus, the Indonesian Publication Index, and university journal portals yielded 48 articles, of which 25 met inclusion criteria—15 quasi‐experimental studies, 6 descriptive studies, and 4 meta‐analyses (14 national, 11 international). Findings reveal that optimal PjBL implementation increases …

Accelerations And Emg Differences Between Isocaloric High-Incline Walking And Level-Grade Jogging, Taj Krieger, Motoki Sato, Lex Gidley, Justus Ortega, Eli Lankford

International Journal of Exercise Science

International Journal of Exercise Science 18(7): 995-1009, 2025. High-incline walking is a popular mode of exercise and often serves as an alternative to level-grade running for improving cardiovascular fitness. This study examined the muscle activation and biomechanical differences between high-incline walking (HIW) at a 20% grade and level-grade jogging (LGJ) at matched exercise intensities. Nineteen physically inactive adults (18-31 years) participated. Participants completed two isocaloric exercise trials (HIW and LGJ), each lasting ten minutes. EMG data were obtained from eight muscles: biceps femoris (BF), gluteus maximus (GM), lateral gastrocnemius (LG), tibialis anterior (TA), vastus lateralis (VL), anterior deltoid (AD), erector …

Editorial: A Step-By-Step Statistical Decision Framework For A Gender-Inclusive Approach In Sport And Exercise Science Research, James W. Navalta, Dustin W. Davis, Jafra D. Thomas, Whitley J. Stone

International Journal of Exercise Science

International Journal of Exercise Science 18(1): 1010-1029, 2025. The conflation of sex and gender in sport and exercise science research has led to gaps in representation and understanding of gender-inclusive outcomes. This invited editorial presents a framework to guide researchers in conducting statistical analyses that account for multiple gender identities beyond the traditional binary classification. The invited editorial guides deliberation on whether to test for sex or gender differences in sport or exercise science research. It prompts investigators to answer the question, “Is there a valid, literature-supported rationale for investigating sex or gender differences?” If “yes”, we propose approaches that …

Global Nursing Education Through Simulation Technology: Enhancing Mass Casualty Training, Matt Anderson, Adrianna Lorraine Watson, Jeanette Drake, Sonrdra Heaston, Chynna Hartle, Lauralee Preece

International Nursing Research Congress (INRC)

Background: Nursing education is a global requirement, with many institutions worldwide struggling to find adequate space, time, personnel, and finances to invest in high-quality educational modalities for disaster preparedness and interdisciplinary communication or teamwork. This modality was designed with the global implications of a scalable approach to high-quality education while anticipating financial and logistical challenges.

Purpose: to assess the self-efficacy and experiences of undergraduate student nurses and EMTs participating in a mass casualty incident simulation (MCIS).

Methods: This study was designed as a mixed-methods study in which proportional odds logistic regression was paired with thematic analysis to present a complete …

Interdisciplinary Simulation With Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner And Midwifery Students, Marissa Decesaris Siegel, Abigail Howe-Heyman, Joseph Schatz

International Nursing Research Congress (INRC)

Background: Mental health is the leading cause of pregnancy-related mortality in the United States.¹ Both psychiatric and midwifery providers often lack confidence in managing mental health disorders in perinatal patients and may also lack experience in interprofessional collaboration, a key domain of the American Association of Colleges of Nursing’s Essentials.² We are not aware of any existing programs that use interprofessional education to address perinatal mental health.

Purpose: The purpose of this project was to assess the feasibility of a post-partum depression simulation with psychiatric/mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP), women's health/gender-related health nurse practitioner (WHGRNP), and nurse- midwifery …

A Model Of The Determinants Of Maternal Mortality In Indigenous Women, Jennifer L. Heck, Judy Goforth Parker, Kathryn M. L. Konrad, Ingrid Svenson, Annika Jennings

International Nursing Research Congress (INRC)

Despite increasing attention to the well-documented maternal health crisis in the U.S., stark disparities persist between groups of women. In December 2021, Indigenous mothers experienced 118.7 maternal deaths per 100,000 live births, whereas their White counterparts had 26.6 [1]. Maternal mortality is a multifaceted, complex issue that complicates the health and wellbeing of Indigenous women, yet the root causes of this disparity are not well-described. We need a deeper understanding of the determinants of health (social, structural, biological, political) that contribute to Indigenous maternal mortality. Indeed, the existing literature lacks adequate theoretical understanding to address this phenomenon. Therefore, the purpose …

Ehric Model For Non-Fatal Strangulation: A Novel Risk Assessment Framework, Chelsea Knutson, Patricia Ann Carter

International Nursing Research Congress (INRC)

Abstract Text: Background: Non-fatal strangulation (NFS) is a critical yet often overlooked form of violence, frequently occurring within sexual assault and domestic violence contexts. Despite its severity and prevalence, significant gaps remain in understanding NFS risk factors, hindering effective prevention and intervention strategies.

Purpose: This study aims to synthesize current literature on NFS risk factors and develop a novel conceptual model to aid in identifying high-risk individuals, informing clinical practice and policy-making in nursing and healthcare.

Methods: A comprehensive literature review was conducted using MEDLINE and CINAHL databases, with the keyword 'non-fatal strangulation', up to August 2024. The search was …

Translational Science Of Blended Tube Feedings, Amy Spurlock, Noah Thomas

International Nursing Research Congress (INRC)

The purpose of this research synthesis is to summarize translational science on Blended Tube Feeding (BTF) and the commentary that led to further research in the field.

Since 2013, nine papers have been published by a team on BTF. These papers utilized a variety of research methods to investigate the safety, efficacy, and patient outcomes of BTF compared to commercial formulas (CF). A case study explored the clinical improvement of a child post-transition to BTF, revealing reduced gastrointestinal (GI) symptoms and increased oral intake¹. Survey research was employed with Registered Dietitians and caregivers to assess attitudes, experiences, and …

Building Grit And Understanding Drivers Of Dropout Intentions Among Nursing Students, Marianne Biangone, Daniel Terry, Blake Peck, Jeong-Ah Kim, Linda Jones

International Nursing Research Congress (INRC)

Introduction: Defined as a combination of passion, perseverance, and long-term commitment, grit is the sustained effort to achieve difficult goals over time.^1,2 Nursing students have grit, which continues to develop as they enter the profession. However, nearly 20% of students do not complete their studies, despite academic and pastoral support.³ Interventions designed to develop mindsets, such as the six-week ‘Grow your Grit’ program⁴, better equip students for the rigors of academia. However, limited insights regarding the granular issues that drive dropping out exist.⁵

Purpose: To understand challenges that lead to increased dropout intentions among first-year …

Representing A Globally Diverse Profession: Implementing A Holistic Interview Process For Applicants, Courtney Chovanetz, Laura Opton, Irene Salinas, Kara Moellenberg

International Nursing Research Congress (INRC)

As the national nursing shortage rises across the United States, educators continue to focus on providing quality education and producing competent bedside nurses. However, there remains a lack of diversity in the nursing profession (Breland, 2020). Ensuring a student body is representative of various experiences and personal attributes creates a nursing workforce that more closely reflects the population and is prepared to successfully lead and impact health outcomes equity (Wagner et al., 2020). Implementing holistic interview processes will allow for the evaluation of life experiences and core values demonstrating a more accurate representation of how individuals will practice as professionals …

Unfolding Narratives: An Arts Health Project To Promote Empathy And Compassion In Nursing Education, Diana Catherine Jefferies, Stephen Mcnally, Paul Glew, Annette Stunden, Aileen Pamonag Lane, Lucie Michelle Ramjan

International Nursing Research Congress (INRC)

Empathy and compassion are core attributes when nurses are developing therapeutic relationships with vulnerable people in their care (Levett-Jones et al., 2019). The Unfolding Narratives uses a co-design arts health approach to create authentic, engaging and evidence based short films. The purpose of the films is to encourage pre-registration nursing students to reflect on their communication skills when caring for people who are living with mental ill health, dementia or are distressed by their life circumstances. Using a sliding door approach the films show how health outcomes are improved by empathetic and compassionate communication. They also demonstrate that without these …

Empowering Nurses Through Scope Advancement: Strategies For Professional Growth, Venise Bryan, Kristin Petrovic, Kelly Decoste

International Nursing Research Congress (INRC)

Nurses globally work within various scopes of practice, from entry-level to advanced roles, and play a vital role in meeting the health needs of individuals and communities across diverse healthcare settings. Nurses can further their education, to advance their scope, such as diploma-prepared Licensed/Registered Practical Nurses (LPNs/RPNs) completing their Bachelor of Nursing (BN) to become Registered Nurses (RN). In Canada, select BN programs use innovative pedagogies to specifically bridge curriculum that recognizes LPN/RPN experience (Chachula et al., 2020). LPN/RPN to BN learners bring rich clinical experience and diversity as they engage in career advancement and professional development (Almost, 2021).

A …

Trauma-Informed Practices In A School Of Nursing: An Assessment, Oluwatoyin Olukotun, Kala Mayer

International Nursing Research Congress (INRC)

Trauma-informed environments have been shown to foster academic success by creating trauma-sensitive learning spaces (Crosby, 2015), aligning with nursing’s core values of empathy, patient-centered care, and holistic health. However, despite the increasing use of trauma-informed approaches in K-12 settings, their application in higher education, particularly in nursing schools, remains underexplored (Doughty, 2018; Ernest et al., 2022; Henshaw, 2022; Thomas et al., 2019). This study aimed to assess the implementation of trauma-informed practices at a U.S. school of nursing (SON) from the perspectives of faculty and staff. In Spring 2024, an online Qualtrics survey was administered to faculty and staff at …

The Lmpact Of The Covid-19 Pandemic On Registered Nurses, Mary Ellen Roberts, Joyce M. Knestrick, Lenore Resick

International Nursing Research Congress (INRC)

Background: The Covid –19 pandemic is a new experience with a substantial impact on the health and well-being of nurses caring for the patients diagnosed with the disease. Increased work and family demands have not been studied in these frontline workers. COVID-19 has altered many US nurses’ career plans. Over the past two years, the researchers have spoken with nurses who consistently, and increasingly, report planning to leave the workforce. This study looks at the impact of COVID-19 on the professional and personal lives of nurses.

Purpose: To understand the effects of COVID-19 a global pandemic on nurses caring for …

Nurses’ Lived Experiences During The Covid-19 Pandemic: A Descriptive Phenomenological Study, Kala Mayer, Jo Anne Bennett, Elizabeth Reifsnider, Jeanie Skibiski, Soojung Jo

International Nursing Research Congress (INRC)

The COVID-19 pandemic presented unprecedented challenges for nurses, including confronting end-of-life decisions, witnessing patient suffering, and burnout. Nevertheless, many nurses demonstrated resilience and personal growth despite adversities. Notable gaps in the literature include limited exploration of the long-term impacts of the pandemic on nurses, variations in experiences based on geographic, gender, and cultural factors, as well as the role of leadership and organizational response. Likewise, how nurses adapted to innovations such as new technologies and the impact of their pandemic experiences on patient outcomes and care quality remain underexplored. This study employed a phenomenological descriptive approach to capture nurses’ lived …

Creating A Quality Improvement Academy To Advance The Professional Development Of Front-Line Nurses, Andrea Paddock

International Nursing Research Congress (INRC)

Involving nurses in quality improvement (QI) is associated with improved quality care, operational efficiency, cost, and job satisfaction (Djukic et al., 2021; Robinson & Gelling, 2019; Tschannen et al., 2023). For nurses to engage in QI, they need proper structure, education, supportive leadership, and resources (Connor et al., 2023; Tschannen et al., 2021). Without such, they are ill-equipped to improve or sustain current practices with confidence and competence.

A gap was identified in an organization’s nursing structure in which a QI methodological approach and supporting resources was lacking. To address this gap, an 8-month QI Academy pilot was developed to …

Stress And Trauma In Nursing Students Over Time: A Longitudinal Study, Heidi Gilroy, Kala Mayer, Chelsea Ratcliff, Devon M. Berry, Sally Stephanie Rothacker-Peyton, Alice Ahn, Kennedy Anderson

International Nursing Research Congress (INRC)

Nursing students are exposed to trauma, toxic stress, and traumatic experiences during their education, contributing to mental health challenges such as anxiety, burnout, and symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) (Gilroy et al., 2024). These experiences have significant implications for students' learning, academic performance, retention in nursing programs, and ultimately patient care. However, how these stressors and mental health symptoms evolve over the course of nursing education remains largely unexplored. This study aimed to describe changes in trauma exposure, risk and protective factors, trauma symptoms, and mental health among undergraduate Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) students as they progressed …

Reducing Cauti In The Neurocritical Care Unit Through Rapid Implementation Of The Evidence, Nicole E. Sunderland

International Nursing Research Congress (INRC)

Catheter-associated urinary tract infections (CAUTIs) from indwelling urinary catheter (IUC) account for 25% of all hospital-acquired infections. Neuro-critically ill patients are at 2–5 times greater risk of developing CAUTI because of increased use of indwelling urinary catheters due to neurogenic urinary retention. The CAUTI rate for the Neurocritical Care Unit was 7.814 per 1000 patient days with an average quarterly utilization rate of 84%. A robust quality improvement project that included rapid impleentation of evidence, removal or replacement of the IUC by day 5, weekly patient centered rounds, urine culturing best practices, order set changes, and supporting evidence to improve …

Intergenerational Programs: Reducing Loneliness Of Older Adults In Congregate Care Settings, Rachel Elaine Bagley, Yolanda Rodriguez, Jacelyn Tappert

International Nursing Research Congress (INRC)

Loneliness is an increasingly recognized public health issue, especially among the elderly, where it contributes to the decline in both physical and mental health (WHO Commission on Social Connection, 2024). In the geriatric population, loneliness is associated with increased risks of depression, anxiety, cognitive impairment, cardiovascular disease, falls, and overall mortality (Holt-Lunstad, et al. 2015; Millett et al., 2024; National Institute on Ageing, 2019). Loneliness in congregate care settings is often exacerbated by residents' loss of physical mobility, death of spouses, removal of the individual from their neighborhood and community, and reduced autonomy. The COVID-19 pandemic intensified these issues, reducing …

Development Of A Nurse-Led Interprofessional Community Health Nursing Education Program, Kim Alexander Decker, Wendy R. Miller

International Nursing Research Congress (INRC)

This presentation will describe an interprofessional community health nursing education project in a 5-county region. The preliminary phase of the project was to create a nurse-led interprofessional advisory group to direct a comprehensive health needs assessment with county health departments, area clinics and school officials, to determine community-based priorities. This phase was followed by an investigation of evidence-based interventions to address the acknowledged community health needs of substance use prevention and mental health promotion. Program costs and funding were identified and obtained through alumni donor gifts and internal university grants. A trained facilitator was selected to educate community health nursing, …

Trauma-Informed Design And Student Well-Being In Higher Education: An Exploratory, Descriptive Study, Isabelle Sadorra, Kala Mayer, Cara Poor, Olivia Mattern, Bella Small

International Nursing Research Congress (INRC)

Since the COVID-19 pandemic, there have been heightened reports of stress and trauma among students. Despite increasing evidence of the importance of trauma-informed design (TID) in healthcare and housing, its application in higher education settings remains underexplored. TID incorporates elements that create environments conducive to safety, well-being, and healing, which are critical for academic success. Design elements in the built environment that have the potential to reduce student and nurse stress and promote learning include access to nature and outside areas, safety and privacy features, and ambient noise and sound dampening features, for example. This study aims to assess students' …

Instrument Adaptation Through Focus Group Insights Of Clinical Nurse Specialist Practice, Sheree A. Scott, Kelley Kilpatrick

International Nursing Research Congress (INRC)

Background/Purpose: The Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS) profession globally and across the US is facing challenges including workforce shortage and low CNS academic program enrollment. Role confusion and dissemination of outcomes directly tied to CNS practice may contribute to the issue. This study aims to address this gap by adapting a validated time in motion instrument, originally developed in Canada, to gather comprehensive data on the practice of the CNS in diverse care settings across southern California. The purpose of phase 1 is to ensure that the CNS time in motion instrument is tailored to the local healthcare environment.

Methods: The …

Poor Dietary Habits And Physical Inactivity In Obese And Overweight Children: A Concept Analysis, Mahdiyeh Ahmadi, Marti Rice, Felesia Bowen

International Nursing Research Congress (INRC)

Aim: The aim of this poster is to analyze the concepts of poor dietary habits and physical inactivity, which are defined differently by various researchers, in obese and overweight school-aged children.

Background: Poor dietary habits and physical inactivity are two common modifiable lifestyle behaviors, contributing to overweight/obesity in children.

Design: Rodgers' method of concept analysis guided the review, including sample and setting, literature search, and data analysis.

Data Source: PubMed and CINAHL were searched for relevant literature.
Results: Antecedents included changes in children's lifestyles, increased dependence on transportation, parental, caregivers’, and peer influence, cultural and social norms, and environmental factors. …

Exercise Dependence: A Qualitative Study Of Fitness Enthusiasts’ Motivations For Excessive Workouts, David Paul Rubia Ramos, Edith Gili Habig, Jessica May Guillermo

International Nursing Research Congress (INRC)

More and more people around the globe are motivated to be physically fit and healthy. While a lack of regular physical activity can be a barrier to a healthier lifestyle, too much or excessive exercise may lead to exercise dependence and may pose serious health concerns. Excessive exercise or exercise dependence refers to a maladaptive pattern of exercise which can lead to clinically significant impairment or distress. This qualitative study explores the motivations for excessive exercise and contributing factors to exercise dependence among at-risk Filipino fitness enthusiasts. Using descriptive qualitative research, we conducted in-depth interviews with ten gym regular members …

Evaluation Of Practical-Based Instruction In Oncology Nursing Curriculum For College Students, Chih-Yin Chien, Tsae-Jyy Wang

International Nursing Research Congress (INRC)

Background: Vocational education not only focuses on knowledge transfer but also emphasizes practical application. The cultivation of practical-based learning is a crucial core of vocational education, balancing theory and practice while addressing students' diverse development.

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to develop an oncology nursing practice curriculum aligned with core competencies and to evaluate its effectiveness. The curriculum was designed around a practical-based learning approach, encouraging students to engage in discussions that foster learning engagement, enhance self-efficacy.

Methods: This study utilized a single-group pre-test and post-test design with a convenient sample of 27 students. The questionnaire assessed self-directed …

A Solitary Weight Loss Journey: Exploring The Lived Experiences And Perceptions Of Obese Adolescents, Yueh Tao Chiang, Fu-Sung Lo

International Nursing Research Congress (INRC)

Background: Adolescent obesity is a global public health concern, as habits formed during this critical stage can have long-term health consequences. Understanding how adolescents perceive and experience obesity is crucial for developing effective weight management strategies and promoting overall well-being.

Aims: This study aims to explore the lived experiences and perceptions of obese adolescents in Taiwan, providing deeper insights into their life context.

Method: This phenomenological study recruited participants from a pediatric endocrinology outpatient clinic in northern Taiwan from March to July 2022. Adolescents aged 12-18 with a BMI above the 95th percentile were included. Data was gathered through individual …

Knowledge, Attitude, And Barriers Of Jordanian Nurse Faculty Toward Genomic Concepts In Curriculum, Rachel Joseph

International Nursing Research Congress (INRC)

Advancements in genomics and the emergence of new technology require healthcare professionals to possess the knowledge necessary to effectively integrate genomic concepts into patient care^1,2. The knowledge, attitude, practice, and barriers of Jordanian nursing faculty outside are unknown.

The purpose of this study was to examine the perceived knowledge, attitude, and barriers of Jordanian nursing faculty to integrate genomic concepts into the curriculum. As direct-to-consumer genetic tests proliferate, patients increasingly present their results to healthcare providers (HCPs). The HCPs should have minimum competency to interpret the results or identify resources for the patients and nursing faculty must equip …

Factors Affecting Work Productivity Loss During The Covid-19 Pandemic: A Meta-Correlation Analysis, Jiyeon Jung, Inhae Cho, Jihyun Moon

International Nursing Research Congress (INRC)

Backgrounds: The COVID-19 pandemic has caused a decline in work productivity across various sectors. Identifying the factors influencing the loss of work productivity during a pandemic can have significant implications for health promotion and management among workers.

Objectives: This study aims to evaluate work productivity loss (including absenteeism and presenteeism) among workers during the COVID-19 pandemic by analyzing potential risk factors, such as demographic, individual, psychosocial, and organizational factors.

Design: We conducted a systematic review and meta-correlation analysis to identify risk factors influencing work productivity loss during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Review methods: Data were comprehensively searched across …