Digital Commons Network^™

Making Moves: Magnifying The Move Inclusive Dance Professional Development Workshop 2025, Abigail G. Smith

OTD Capstone Projects

This doctoral capstone project was completed through a partnership with MOVE Inclusive Dance in Nashville, Tennessee. MOVE Inclusive Dance is a nonprofit organization that empowers individuals of all ability levels to learn life skills through dance. The aim of this project was to create a full-scale professional development program for special education teachers to learn how to incorporate movement into their classrooms. An occupational therapy-based handout was created using evidence-based research and provided to all workshop participants. The project involved planning and executing the workshop, while also providing participants with resources to learn more about to importance of movement in …

2025 Undergraduate Research Competition Program, Coastal Carolina University

Undergraduate Research Symposium Programs

16th Annual Undergraduate Research Competition, April 15-16, 2025.

The 2025 CCU Undergraduate Research Symposium included 168 oral and poster presentations (51 oral presentations and 117 poster presentations) and an additional 20 team pitch presentations composed of 57 students who participated in the inaugural year of the Wall College’s Chant’s Tank Pitch Competition.

Presentations at the Undergraduate Research Symposium were judged by over 80 faculty and staff, and prizes are awarded in three categories: Best Oral Presentation, Best Poster Presentation, and Best Chant’s Tank Pitch Presentation. Here are the following award winners in their respective categories:

Best Oral Presentation:

• 1st Place: …

Neural Patterns Of Self-Efficacy And Resulting Changes After Cognitive Rehabilitation In Mild Traumatic Brain Injury, Emma N. Tribbey

Theses

Mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI) often leads to cognitive impairments, which can significantly affect recovery outcomes. Although there are many different interventions available for individuals with mTBI, evidence-based research has indicated that cognitive rehabilitation programs can lead to significant improvement in psychological symptoms as well as psychosocial and vocational functioning in mTBI. Additionally, clinical research has identified a construct, self-efficacy, or the belief in one's capacity to achieve goals, that may play a critical role in further improving cognitive rehabilitation outcomes. Current research examining self-efficacy and cognitive rehabilitation in mTBI has found that higher self-efficacy is associated with greater treatment …

Award-Winning Poet Victoria Chang To Speak On Campus Wednesday, Julia Perez

Press Releases 2020-2029

No abstract provided.

Jtc 25: Driven By Service, Srijita Chattopadhyay

University of Mississippi News

This story is part of the 2025 Journey to Commencement series, which celebrates the pinnacle of the academic year by highlighting University of Mississippi students and their outstanding academic and personal journeys from college student to college graduate.

The Association Between Visit-To-Visit Variability In Risk Factors And Incident Cvd: A Post-Hoc Analysis Of The Multi-Ethnic Study Of Atherosclerosis, Abderrahim Oulhaj, Abubaker Suliman, Malak Bentaleb, Mohammed Abdulrahman, Rachid Bentoumi, Stephen J. Sharp, Harald Sourij

All Works

Our aim is to investigate the association between visit-to-visit variability of nine risk factors and incident cardiovascular disease (CVD) in a large multi-ethnic population cohort study. We used the Multi-Ethnic Study of Atherosclerosis (MESA) cohort. We included individuals with no previous history of CVD, with at least three repeated measurements on each risk factor including total cholesterol, HDL, LDL, non-HDL, triglyceride, Chol/HDL ratio, Diastolic Blood Pressure (DBP), Systolic Blood Pressure (DBP), and Body mass index (BMI). Visit-to-visit variability was estimated via the variability independent of the mean (VIM). A Cox proportional hazards model was used to estimate the association between …

04.21.2025 Ored Connect, Liz Williamson

ORED Newsletter

ORED Stakeholder Meetings

SEC Travel Grants

Cover, Cleveland State Journal Of Law And Health

Journal of Law and Health

No abstract provided.

Copyright Statement, Cleveland State Journal Of Law And Health

Journal of Law and Health

No abstract provided.

Splitting Equality: Access To Gender-Affirming Care In The Fourth Circuit, Gilbert D. Jones

Journal of Law and Health

This Note critically examines the evolving legal landscape surrounding transgender individuals' access to gender-affirming care in the United States, focusing on two pivotal cases before the Fourth Circuit: Kadel v. Folwell (North Carolina) and Fain v. Crouch (West Virginia). These cases present a constitutional and statutory challenge to the exclusion of medically necessary gender-affirming care from state health plans, under Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and the Equal Protection Clause of the Fourteenth Amendment. The Note contextualizes these lawsuits within a broader historical trajectory of transgender rights, highlighting legal and cultural milestones that have shaped access …

April 21, 2025

The Gavel Gazette

No abstract provided.

Adapting To Climate Change In Semiarid Regions Via Conservation Measures: Climate-Smart Crop Rotations Of Food Legumes In Cool Seasons, Velibor Spalevic, Mohsen Janmohammadi, Naser Sabaghnia, Shuraik Kader

Turkish Journal of Agriculture and Forestry

The high potential of evapotranspiration, unsuitable soil conditions, irregular distribution of rainfall, and ineffective techniques of soil moisture conservation are among the limitations of semiarid regions of Central and West Asia and North Africa (CWANA), and they have intensified during recent decades with climate change. CWANA’s agroecosystems are fragile and highly vulnerable to the consequences of global warming and aggravation of water scarcity, and need to redefine agroclimatic zoning. Winter cereals are the predominant crops in the region of CWANA. The highest amount of cultivation is allocated to societies with dominant rainfed agriculture, which is often not economically profitable. The …

Remote Sensing Estimation Of Forest Ecosystem Service Values, Yu Zhang, Zhichao Guo, Guoshuang Tian, Minghua Lei

Turkish Journal of Agriculture and Forestry

A precise estimation of the value of forest ecosystem services (FESVs) has become essential due to the growing significance of the influence of global climate change on them. The primary objective of this study was to enhance the precision of forest service value monitoring and evaluation, thereby providing a scientific foundation for the promotion of sustainable forest resource management and ecological civilization construction. The study presented a remote sensing estimation (RSE) technique that combined time series characterization (TSC) and double-logistic regression (DLR) in order to achieve this. Through the integration of TSC analysis and a substantial amount of remote sensing …

Assessment Of Chlorophyll Levels In Navel Oranges Based On Remote Sensing Images Of Unmanned Aerial Vehicles, Hu Li, Shijiang Zhu, Wen Xu, Zhongyong Yang, Xinbo Liu, Weiqi Zhang

Turkish Journal of Agriculture and Forestry

The swift, effective, and noninvasive assessment of citrus chlorophyll levels is important for the timely diagnosis of citrus growth status, and the decision-making of orchard management. In this study, unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) with multispectral remote sensing imagery were applied to the mandarin orange, through which five vegetation indices [Medium Resolution Imaging Spectrometer Terrestrial Chlorophyll Index (MTCI), Red-edge Chlorophyll Index (CIre), Nitrogen Reflectance Index (NRI), Red, and Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI)], which better reflect citrus photosynthetic activity and productivity, were screened. The stepwise linear regression (SLR) method, support vector machine (SVM) regression method, and radial basis function neural network …

A Yolov7-Based Robotic Harvesting System For Agaricus Bisporus Using A Depth Camera, Fengwu Zhu, Weijian Zhang, Zhida Li, Tianshi Gao, Qinglai Zhao

Turkish Journal of Agriculture and Forestry

To achieve accurate detection of button mushrooms (Agaricus bisporus), a harvesting method based on the Robot Operating System (ROS) is proposed. This method combines a convolutional neural network named YOLO (You Only Look Once), a depth camera, and a robotic arm working in coordination. The system integrates advanced image recognition capabilities with the robotic arm to improve harvesting efficiency and accuracy. To enhance the model’s detection accuracy while considering the lightweight requirements for mobile deployment, several modules were incorporated into the You Only Look Once (YOLO)v7 network. Experimental results showed that the improved YOLOv7 network increased the average detection accuracy …

Postharvest Application Of 1-Methylcyclopropene And Modified Atmosphere Packaging Extends Shelf Life And Maintains Eating Quality Of Mango Fruit Cv. Sufaid Chaunsa, Hafiz Muhammad Usman, Sajid Hussain, Raheel Anwar, Ahmad Sattar Khan, Aman Ullah Malik, Muhammad Moaaz Ali, Khurram Ziaf, Arooba Abbas

Turkish Journal of Agriculture and Forestry

The mango (Mangifera indica L.) fruit is globally relished for its sweet taste, unique aromatic profile, and enriched nutritional value. However, its short postharvest life is a serious challenge for export to long-distance markets. 1-Methylcyclopropene (1-MCP) is an ethylene inhibitor known to delay ripening in many fruits, including mango. However, comparative research suggesting an appropriate method to treat mangoes with 1-MCP is limited. In this study, mango fruit cv. Sufaid Chaunsa were fumigated with 0.25 ppm 1-MCP or treated aqueously with 1.2 ppm 1-MCP for 5 min and then packed in modified atmosphere packaging (MAP). The control fruits were not …

Effect Of Eco-Friendly Fertilizers And Edible Coatings On Fatty Acids And Phenolics In Fresh-Cut Melon During Cold Storage, Firat İşlek

Turkish Journal of Agriculture and Forestry

The demand for convenient and ready-to-eat food has increased, including fresh-cut fruit and vegetables. At the same time, people are also becoming more health-conscious and are aware of the positive impact of healthy food choices on their well-being. For this reason, it is important to deliver fruits and vegetables to people’s tables using both environmentally and human-friendly practices, from cultivation to postharvest storage. In the current study, in order to support agricultural sustainability, humic acid, liquid vermi¬compost, and organomineral fertilizers that do not pose a risk to human health or the environment were used in melon. Furthermore, several edible coverings …

An App-Based Education Course Empowering Coaches To Support Neurodivergent Athletes, Caroline Morton, Karen Park

Spring 2025 OTD Capstone Symposium

Neurodivergent children face significant barriers to participation in youth sports due to a lack of coach education and inclusive practices, which limits access to the physical, cognitive, and social-emotional benefits of recreational activities. This doctoral capstone project aimed to address these barriers through the development and implementation of CoachAbility, an app-based educational course designed to equip youth sports coaches with neurodiversity-affirming approaches. The course includes interactive modules, scenario-based quizzes, and downloadable resources covering key areas such as sensory processing, communication, emotional regulation, inclusion, family collaboration, and motor skill development. Participating coaches at KidStrong Carlsbad completed the course over four …

Opening The Outdoors: Experiences Of Black, Indigenous, And People Of Color (Bipoc) Adults In Outdoor Occupations To Support Mental Health, Jasmine Reynoso, Amy Lyons-Brown

Spring 2025 OTD Capstone Symposium

This mixed methods study explores the experiences of Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC) adults in exploring and engaging in outdoor occupations to support mental health. Through 15 survey responses and 2 semi-structured interviews, data was collected and analyzed using descriptive statistics and reflective thematic analysis. The findings revealed three overarching themes: Barriers to Outdoor Occupations, Facilitators to Encourage Participation, and Personally Experienced Benefits. Participants explained how outdoor activities contribute to improved mental health, emotional regulation, and a sense of holistic well-being. By addressing the gap in research on nature-based occupations within BIPOC communities, this study highlights the need …

Discovering The Cultural Impacts On Asian American, Pacific Islander (Aapi) Occupations From Adolescent Experiences, Jasmine Chew, Karen Park

Spring 2025 OTD Capstone Symposium

Background: Among the Asian American Pacific Islander (AAPI) population, there is a gap in mental health (MH) utilization and seeking support for anxiety and depression (Wu et al., 2021). Adolescents experience a higher risk for self-isolating behaviors and struggle to find appropriate support (Ai et al., 2022; Santos & Kawabata, 2023). Based on cultural and socio-political contexts, what is the occupational impact on AAPI adolescents? How do cultural factors impact the utilization of community-based MH services?

Method: A convergent mixed methods study of unobtrusive data (n = 14), surveys (n = 29), and interviews (n = 4) was …

Family-Centered Care In Pediatric Oncology, Olivia B. Hope, Jazminne Orozco Arteaga Otd, Otr/L

Spring 2025 OTD Capstone Symposium

Pediatric cancer is a medical condition defined by the development of cancerous cells in children and adolescents. Play is a child’s job; it creates a sense of belonging, fills their internal desire to participate in various environments, and allows them to develop sensory, motor, and cognitive skills. The PEOP model further structured this study by providing a comprehensive framework that considers the interactions between the child, their environment, and their occupational participation. This research project used a qualitative, exploratory design to understand how play-based interventions may enhance FCC in the pediatric oncology setting. Thematic analysis was utilized to create five …

Exploring The Benefits Of Nature-Based Occupations And Transition Into Retirement, Kelly Gorton, Amy Lyons-Brown

Spring 2025 OTD Capstone Symposium

This poster outlines a doctoral capstone project that explores how nature-based occupations can support older adults transitioning into retirement, addressing their unique needs and improving their overall quality of life. The transition into retirement can be a challenging time, often accompanied by anxiety, loss of routine, and social isolation. Nature-based occupations offer significant benefits, such as improved mood, reduced stress, a sense of purpose, and increased social engagement. This poster emphasizes the importance of understanding older adults' attitudes and behaviors toward nature-based occupations to maximize their benefits. It also examines how occupational therapists can integrate nature-based interventions to help older …

Employee Wellness In Acute Mental Health Settings – An Occupational Therapy Perspective, Ethan Gross, Susan Macdermott

Spring 2025 OTD Capstone Symposium

This poster outlines a doctoral capstone project focused on addressing the holistic factors influencing patient recovery and well-being in acute mental health settings. A comprehensive needs assessment was conducted to identify knowledge gaps, sources of staff stress, and environmental barriers impacting occupational performance. Findings informed the development of a staff-focused program aimed at mitigating stressors and enhancing therapeutic engagement. In addition, a report will be created with evidence-based recommendations for physical environment modifications to support both patient and employee well-being and occupational participation

Live Music Events: The Lived Experiences For People With Disabilities, Miya Y. Rodriguez, Susan Macdermott

Spring 2025 OTD Capstone Symposium

Live music events present barriers to people with disabilities, limiting participation and full engagement at these events. This capstone project aimed to understand the lived experience of people with disabilities at live music events. A mixed methods research study and optional interview to gather data were used. Through thematic analysis, three themes were presented: physical barriers, more than just music, and the lack of education on invisible disabilities. These outcomes from the research express additional accommodations centered around physical barriers, an understanding that there are more occupations at these events besides just the music, and a need for more inclusion …

Promoting Occupational Balance For High School Student-Athletes Transitioning To College, Angilea Foster, Amy Lyons-Brown

Spring 2025 OTD Capstone Symposium

The purpose of this proposal is to outline my vision of my capstone project focused on the transition of high school athletes to their first year of collegiate sports while maintaining occupational balance. The average high school student who is beginning their transition into their first year of college can find this journey to be difficult and come with a lot of new responsibilities. There are changes within their current roles, routines, and habits that affect their ability to be successful within the first year of college, which can result in not returning to the college or university the second …

Lived Experience Of Caregivers Of Individuals Labeled With Schizophrenia, Nicolette C. Hamilton, Susan Macdermott

Spring 2025 OTD Capstone Symposium

The purpose of the capstone project was to explore the experience of caregivers of an individual labeled with schizophrenia and create educational materials beneficial to caregivers at partnering site. Caregivers of individuals labeled with schizophrenia can face mental health concerns, such as anxiety, stress, or depression, which may or may not be due to the demands of being a caregiver. The occupational impact of these mental health concerns is noted in literature, but the potential for occupational therapy to address these occupational concerns has not been identified for this caregiver population specifically. The purpose of the project was to learn …

Exploring The Lived Experience Of Growing Up With A Neurodivergent Sibling, Madison Hall, Jazminne Orozco Arteaga

Spring 2025 OTD Capstone Symposium

Neurotypical siblings of neurodivergent children often experience unique roles, responsibilities, and emotional challenges within their family systems, yet their needs are frequently overlooked in service delivery models. This mixed methods study explored the lived experiences of individuals who grew up with neurodivergent siblings, focusing on the occupations, routines, and play experiences that shaped their development. Four themes emerged through thematic analysis of survey responses and semi-structured interviews: (1) play as a reconstructed experience, (2) role imbalance in daily life, (3) environmental influences on occupational engagement, and (4) navigating emotional demands. Findings highlight the need for occupational therapists to include neurotypical …

Empowering Mississippi Schools: Training Staff And Students For Effective Integration Of Service Animals In K-6 Education., Micah C. Brouillette

Honors Theses

The purpose of this capstone is to explore the role of service animals in schools and to develop foundational training modules for educators and school staff. The presence of service animals in educational settings is a growing reality, yet many schools lack clear policies and staff training on how to effectively integrate them. This capstone reviews the legal protections surrounding service animals, including federal laws such as the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), as well as Mississippi-specific regulations. It examines the benefits of service animals for students with disabilities, including their impact …

Birds Don't Fly Here, Sarah Mcraney

Honors Theses

Birds Don’t Fly Here is a novella that follows Elora Maevry. She spent her life feeling like an outsider in her own home. She felt like her Nanny was her only true family, but when her Nanny passes away, Elora is forced to confront her family issues while struggling with grief. Elora is forced to make a decision. She can keep flying away or finally face the truth that has caged her. This story includes themes like grief, mental health issues, abandonment, love, and the complications of relationships.

Allelic Diversity Of Azerbaijani Bread Wheat (Triticum Aestivum L.) By Ssr Markers, Javi̇d Ojaghi, Sevi̇nj Nuriyeva, Sami̇ra Salayeva, Mahammad Eldarov, Zeynal Akparov, Jamala Eldarova Mursalova

Turkish Journal of Agriculture and Forestry

The objectives of this research entailed studying genetic variation in 50 Azerbaijani wheat accessions from 6 different botanical varieties using simple sequence repeat (SSR) markers. On the basis of the seven SSR primers used in this work, 42 different alleles were observed among the wheat accessions studied with an average of six alleles per locus. Polymorphism information content (PIC) ranged from 0.428 to 0.772, revealing the existence of rich genetic diversity in Azerbaijani wheat accessions. The highest PIC values were calculated with the Xgwm190, Xgwm337, and Xgwm261 SSR primers with a mean value of 0.561. Cluster analysis representing the Nei …