Digital Commons Network^™

Assessment Of Knowledge And Misconceptions Of Osteoarthritis Patients Attending A Rheumatology Unit, Alyaa Aljafr, Sami Shihab

Iraqi Postgraduate Medical Journal

Background: Osteoarthritis accounts for around 8% of the total burden of diseases worldwide. There is evidence that patient education has the beneficial impact of pain reduction and function improvement. The psychological advantages of patient education emphasized the effect of better knowledge on quality of life along with reduction in health care visit for patients with knee osteoarthritis.Objectives: To assess the level of knowledge and highlights the educational needs of Iraqi patients about osteoarthritis and to evaluate osteoarthritis patients’ attitude and practice as a part of self-management approach.Patients and methods: A cross-sectional study conducted at Rheumatology Unit of Baghdad Teaching Hospital …

The Impact Of Nutritional Education Program On Knowledge, Attitudes And Practices Among Sample Of Type 2 Diabetes Patients, Hussein Mejbel, Lujain Alkhazrajy

Iraqi Postgraduate Medical Journal

AbstractBackground: Type 2 diabetes mellitus is a chronic metabolic disorder, characterized by poor glycemic control. Nutritional education enhances knowledge, attitudes, and practices leading to better glycemic control. Objective: To find out the impact of nutritional education program on knowledge, attitudes and practices of participants regarding the glycemic control in type 2 diabetes mellitus. Methodology: A quasi-experimental study was conducted at Baghdad medical city on 45 patients with Type 2 diabetes mellitus and recruited by non-probability convenience sampling method over three months duration. Patients were assessed for knowledge, attitudes and practices with structured questionnaire that was derived from previous literatures and …

Assessment Of Plasma D-Dimer Level In Patients With Acute Ischemic Stroke, Ali Raheem, Aqeel Hatem Aljaberi

Iraqi Postgraduate Medical Journal

Background: Stroke is defined as "rapidly clinical symptoms of focal (or global) impairment of brain function, lasting longer than 24 hours or leading to death, with vascular origin " according to the World Health Organization. It has been suggested that elevated circulating D-dimer molecule is formed when plasmin digests the fibrin clot. Values may be associated with acute ischemic stroke (AIS). Aim: to estimate the level of plasma D-dimer in acute ischemic stroke patients and to study the effect of sociodemographic data on the level of D-dimer.Method: It's a cross-sectional study of 300 participants of whom 200 were with acute …

Implementing The We Can! Energize Our Families: Curriculum For Parents And Caregivers In The Primary Care Setting, Randi Bouchillon Msn, Fnp-C, Cpn

Doctor of Nursing Practice Projects

Background: Childhood obesity is one of the biggest issues within the pediatric population affecting over 100 million children nationally (Marcus, et al., 2022). More than 15% of all children in the United States fall into the obesity category given their weight and BMI (Sanyaolu, et al, 2019). Exercise and dietary modifications have always been accepted to aid in weight loss and improved health outcomes. Studies have shown that both exercise and dietary modifications can make a huge impact on a patient’s weight but also have a positive effect on their overall mental health as well (Jebeile, et al., 2019).

Objectives: …

Reducing Rates And Improving Care Of Incarcerated Pregnant People In Georgia Through The Georgia Women's Care Act: A Policy Analysis And Advocacy Project, Allegra Renee Crews Walker Msn, Cnm

Doctor of Nursing Practice Projects

Background: Maternal mortality rate and the rate of incarcerated women are significantly higher in the U.S. than in comparable nations, with Georgia's rates exceeding the national average. The U.S. and Georgia do not meet the internationally accepted standards for women in prisons, the Bangkok Rules. The Georgia Women's CARE Act seeks to reduce rates of incarcerated pregnant individuals by allowing sentence deferment, alternative sentencing, and eliminating or reducing cash bail when appropriate. The bill also establishes standards for tracking pregnant incarcerated women through federal and state prisons and jails.

Aims: This policy analysis and advocacy project aims to bring awareness …

Bridging The Gap: Enhancing Primary Palliative Care Knowledge And Self-Efficacy Among Home Health Interprofessional Staff: A Doctor Of Nursing Practice Quality Improvement Project, Morgan L. Ryan Msn, Chpn, Agpcnp-Bc

Doctor of Nursing Practice Projects

Background: Palliative care is vital for improving the quality of life for individuals with serious illnesses, yet many interprofessional home health providers lack adequate training. Addressing this educational gap is essential for delivering comprehensive, compassionate care to patients with chronic and life-limiting conditions.

Objectives: This Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) project aimed to develop, implement, and evaluate a structured primary palliative care training tailored to the needs of interprofessional home health providers. The objectives were to: (1) enhance knowledge of palliative care principles, (2) reinforce each team member’s role in primary palliative care delivery, (3) improve self-efficacy and perceived competence, …

Opportunities For Solid Organ Donation In The Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, Sarah Pippin, Ashley Sherman, Julie Weiner, Jotishna Sharma

Posters

Background: Pediatric patients are at an increased risk of mortality when waiting for an organ transplant. Approximately 50% of pediatric patients wait for> a year for a solid organ transplant and infants < 1 year of age have the highest death rate while awaiting transplantation. There are two pathways for organ donation (OD), donation after death by neurologic criteria (DDNC) or donation after circulatory determination of death (DCDD). Neonates rarely meet brain death criteria, and since most deaths in the NICU occur aftera planned extubation, DCDD with organ procurement after a planned extubation from mechanical ventilation can be a consideration especially with kidney and liver donations. Organ procurement may be limited by warm ischernic time (WI1); usually :'.S 90 minutes. The question remains which neonates would meet criteria for DCDD.

Purpose: The aim of this study is to characterize theoretical eligibility of DCDD in infants undergoing withdrawal of care in the NICU based on WIT :'.S 90 minutes

Method: Retrospective study of a cohort of infants 2:36 weeks at the time of death who died at a level IV NICU from January 1, 2012, to December 31, 2022. Demographic information was obtained. Mode of death was categorized as …

Llu Dentistry - Volume 34, Number 1, Loma Linda University School Of Dentistry

Articulator (Dentistry)

In this issue:

4 | Dean's Message
6 | Caring for the Future: A Mission in Honduras
8 | Homecoming 2025
11 | Mission Emphasis Breakfast
18 | Welcome New Faculty
20 | Mahmoud Torabinejad, DMD, MSD, PhD, Professor Emeritus
21 | Where are they now? Lane Thomsen, DDS
22 | Rolando Zeledon New Senior Development Officer
23 | Chan Family Legacy
25 | Remembering Paul Richardson, DDS'72, MEd
28 | CDA Dennis Shinbori Student Table Clinic Awards
34 | 2025 Commencement Weekend
41 | Commencement Speaker Samuel Young, DMD
42 | Prince Award
43 | President's Award
44 | …

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 …