Digital Commons Network^™

Beyond The System: A Critical Analysis Of Child Welfare Placement Practices For Children With Autism, Lauren Scott, Nicole Navarro

Electronic Theses, Projects, and Dissertations

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a neurological condition that affects an individual’s communication, social interactions, and behavior. Approximately 1.7% of children in the United States are diagnosed with ASD. Families raising children with ASD face significant challenges, including limited support systems, caregiver fatigue, and financial strain. These difficulties increase the likelihood of maltreatment, leading to higher rates of children with ASD being referred to Child Welfare Agencies. Once involved in the system, children with ASD often encounter difficulties in finding appropriate long-term foster or kinship placements, which can result in high rates of placement instability. This research seeks to identify …

Reducing Hospital Readmissions Through Pharmacist-Led Medication Reconciliation At Discharge, Ambreen Moazzam

Electronic Theses, Projects, and Dissertations

One of the ancient problems of the healthcare systems in the world is hospital readmission, which leads to increased costs, morbidity, and an unwarranted load on medical resources. One evidence-based intervention that can address this problem and improve medication accuracy and continuity of care is pharmacist-led medication reconciliation at discharge. The proposed project will identify the impact of pharmacist involvement in discharge pharmacy reconciliation on patient outcomes and readmission. The present paper is quantitative, descriptive study, where retrospective and prospective information was used to estimate medication discrepancies, readmission, and patient compliance in adult inpatients. The evidence substantiates pharmacist-led medication reconciliation …

Girlhood, Interrupted: An Intersectional Feminist History Of Decolonizing And Reclaiming Womanhood, Ayden Kelly

Electronic Theses, Projects, and Dissertations

In the past few decades, social and political discourse surrounding womanhood and who is considered a "real" woman has led to the execration of transgender women. This work will explore how recent discourse and rhetoric surrounding who is and who is not a “real woman” can be traced to nineteenth century notions of “true womanhood” that excluded women of color. In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, with westward expansion, settler colonialism, residential schools, slavery, and post-emancipation serving as backdrops, this work will also analyze how ideologies of womanhood have interrupted and suppressed women of color throughout Western American …

Countering Anti-Immigrant Narratives: Promoting Socio-Emotional Well-Being Through Familism, Counter-Storytelling, And Community Building In Latinx Family Workshops, Sitlaly Irais Jimenez Preciado

Electronic Theses, Projects, and Dissertations

In recent decades, the United States has seen a growing anti-immigration climate marked by restrictive policies, racialized political rhetoric, and public discourse targeting immigrant communities. This environment has heightened fear, discrimination, and exclusion for immigrant families, especially those of Latinx origin, affecting daily life in schools, healthcare, and community spaces (Caballero et al., 2022; Roche et al., 2021). These families experience socio-emotional challenges, including anxiety, depression, and fear, alongside barriers to social and health services.

While research documents the harmful effects of anti-immigration policies and rhetoric on Latinx families, few interventions focus on protective factors that help Latinx families navigate …

Gender Disparities Among General Surgeons: A Comprehensive Review, Julie Holihan, Devi Bavishi, Kush Brahmbhatt, Rebecca Franks, Zuhair Ali, Karla Bernardi, Christine Castillo, Mike Liang, Rachel Wong, Michele Loor

Faculty, Staff and Student Publications

Background: Unlike in-house call, the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education (ACGME) does not require a postcall day for "home call" shifts. Despite this, we hypothesize that on-call residents are still in the hospital for the majority of their shift despite having the luxury of home call and, thus, are not protected by ACGME postcall duty hour regulations.

Methods: A prospective single center survey study was conducted by surveying junior and senior residents who completed overnight call shifts from January 2023 to April 2023 at one of the busiest level 1 trauma centers in the United States. Data include number …

Introduction To The Journal Of Adventist Youth And Young Adult Ministries, Tracy Wood

Journal of Adventist Youth and Young Adult Ministries

No abstract provided.

Overview, Steve Case

Journal of Adventist Youth and Young Adult Ministries

No abstract provided.

Following Jesus: Discipleship For Young People

Journal of Adventist Youth and Young Adult Ministries

No abstract provided.

Discipleship For Young People, Steve Case

Journal of Adventist Youth and Young Adult Ministries

No abstract provided.

A Different Starting Point: Youth Discipleship For A New Generation, Rogelio Paquini

Journal of Adventist Youth and Young Adult Ministries

The process of discipling youth in contemporary society significantly diverges from the approaches utilized in previous generations. The current landscape is characterized by unique challenges, diverse worldviews, and complex relationship dynamics, which collectively create an environment that may be unfamiliar to traditional church discipleship efforts. This paper aims to elucidate the most pertinent elements of discipleship concerning youth and young adults. The analysis presented herein is grounded in a review of contemporary literature and empirical data derived from a survey of young adults regarding their experiences and perspectives on discipleship.

Seeing And Doing: Disciple-Making And Moral Formation In The Gospel Of John, Stephen Yeagley

Journal of Adventist Youth and Young Adult Ministries

God’s revelation in Jesus Christ both discloses and obligates, presenting an alternate view of reality to be seen and an ethical command to be done. The Gospel of John weaves the motifs of “seeing” and “doing” into a single disciple-making process. It aims to transform a person’s identity, worldview, and understanding of God before inviting ethical emulation. This sequence evokes a moral response, calling disciples to do “just as” Jesus and His Father have done, particularly in love, unity, mission, and otherworldliness. Moral empowerment occurs relationally through a third motif: “dwelling.” Using the metaphors of home, family, and friendship, John …

Divine Attachment As Discipleship: Theology And Practice, Kristina Freed

Journal of Adventist Youth and Young Adult Ministries

Discipleship is more than obedience and behavior management; it is first and foremost a relationship with God. What kind of relationship? Kaufman hinted that it is an attachment relationship, asserting that God is the ultimate attachment figure. Unfortunately, he did not articulate a theology of attachment. While research in the psychology of religion research has shown that God is perceived as an attachment figure and that He engages in attachment behaviors with humans, a theology of attachment has yet to be developed. This paper offers a theology of divine attachment built upon textual and linguistic evidence. I also suggest a …

Youth Identity Formation And Intergenerational Mentorship, Larry L. Green

Journal of Adventist Youth and Young Adult Ministries

Youth today face significant challenges in developing a clear and rooted identity, particularly within the context of faith. As cultural, social, and technological influences complicate the process of identity formation, church leaders, mentors, and parents are essential in helping guide youth to form an identity anchored in Christ. This study explores the role of intergenerational mentorship, drawing upon the model of discipleship exemplified by Jesus. It highlights the principles of relational proximity, empowerment through participation, and personalized mentorship. Additionally, the study examines how church-family partnerships strengthen the transmission of faith and offer practical strategies for church leaders to mentor youth …

Discipling Students On Non-Adventist College And University Campuses, Ronald R. Pickell

Journal of Adventist Youth and Young Adult Ministries

Social science has long demonstrated the importance of faith development in the period of college life. An Adventist faith development process is needed for the spiritual life and faith development of students who attend non-Adventist universities. This paper expands on my previous research on this topic and features the Journey—a series of student Bible study small group experiences. Journey introduces students to the mission and message of Jesus, inviting them to believe in Jesus and follow Him in lifelong discipleship. This small group Bible study series contributes to the discipleship process for students in the unique setting of today’s university …

Discipling The Youth Through Preaching, Rodney Palmer

Journal of Adventist Youth and Young Adult Ministries

Youth discipleship is crucial for the long-term vitality of the church and the development of the next generation of Christian leaders. However, discipling youth through preaching presents distinct challenges due to the rapid changes and diverse influences that characterize adolescence. This paper will explore how faithful Biblical and Christ-centered preaching can serve as an effective tool for discipling the youth by examining the Biblical basis for youth-focused preaching and strategies to engage and transform young listeners. It will also offer practical recommendations for academicians, administrators, and youth practitioners to tailor their messages for youth discipleship, which will result in fostering …

Let The Little Children Come To Me: A Developmental Discipleship Model, Ben Martin

Journal of Adventist Youth and Young Adult Ministries

T his paper demonstrates the need for intentional, age-appropriate discipleship. It lays out a model based on developmental research from educators, psychologists, and theologians. This Developmental Discipleship Model provides a holistic approach for children and youth that equips and empowers parents, teachers, ministry leaders, and pastors to work together for the discipleship of the next generation by giving them a framework that reaches across ministry lines.

Mentoring Youth In A Digital World: Integrating Technology For Effective Discipleship, Aundrea Thompson

Journal of Adventist Youth and Young Adult Ministries

In the digital age, technology significantly impacts the worldview and spiritual lives of youth, creating new challenges and opportunities for discipleship. This paper explores how faith leaders can integrate digital tools like social media, online platforms, and apps into youth mentorship to foster spiritual growth. While technology offers opportunities to engage with youth where they are, it also presents challenges like information overload, distractions, and online misinformation. By adapting Biblical mentoring models to digital spaces, mentors can build authentic relationships, break geographical barriers, and create meaningful, flexible, and creative discipleship experiences. The paper provides strategies for leveraging digital platforms to …

Discipling Pathfinders, John Nebare

Journal of Adventist Youth and Young Adult Ministries

No abstract provided.

The Role Of Mentorship And Peer-Led Initiatives In Fostering Spiritual Growth Among Youth, Nelson A. Orkoh

Journal of Adventist Youth and Young Adult Ministries

T his study explores the role of mentorship and peer-led initiatives in fostering spiritual growth among Seventh-day Adventist (SDA) youth, drawing insights from the epistle of 1 John. Adolescence presents spiritual challenges due to societal pressures, media influences, and peer expectations. The research highlights mentorship as providing spiritual guidance and intergenerational learning, while peer-led initiatives promote mutual encouragement and accountability. The study evaluates program effectiveness, challenges, and solutions using a case study survey approach among 61 Ghanaian SDA youth, ages 15–25. Findings reveal high engagement in mentoring and peer-led church activities. The study recommends structured mentorship programs, leadership training, and …

Discipleship Includes Both Acceptance And Change, Steve Case

Journal of Adventist Youth and Young Adult Ministries

Discipleship—following Jesus—includes both acceptance and change. Acceptance from Christ transforms the orientation of humans to follow the God who initiates and completes our acceptance. But discipleship also involves change—sometimes radical and sometimes gradual. The transformation that began with acceptance continues with change. An emphasis of one over the other, or worse, ignoring or denying one of these two dynamics, results in a skewed discipleship. Both acceptance and change remain supernatural actions in the God-human relationship of discipleship.

Focus Group: Academicians, Rogelio Paquini, Kristina Freed

Journal of Adventist Youth and Young Adult Ministries

Facilitated by Rogelio Paquini and Kristina Freed.

Focus Group: Administrators, Nelson Silva, Pedro Perez, Tracy Wood

Journal of Adventist Youth and Young Adult Ministries

Facilitated by Nelson Silva, Pedro Perez, and Tracy Wood.

Participants included: Cris Cazarine, Exton Clarke, Raul Gonzalez, Roberto Gonzalez, Lamarre Guerrier, Andrew Nugent, Zack Payne, Christian Ponciano, Hector Quinones, Daniel Romanov, Christian Ronalds, Brian Seewaldt, Ron Whitehead, and Tracy Wood.

Focus Group: Practitioners, Ron Pickell, Sonja Cartwright

Journal of Adventist Youth and Young Adult Ministries

Facilitated by Ron Pickell and Sonja Cartwright.

Participants included: Keith Acker , Pedro Albeiteris, Luis Aviles, Cris Cazarine, Lamarre Guerrier, Zira Lalanzira, Vidal Mendoza, John Nebare, Roldanardy Norelus, Manny Ojeda, Tamara Pierre, Freddy Rodriguez, Eli Rojas Jr., Don Tamayo.

Summary, Steve Case

Journal of Adventist Youth and Young Adult Ministries

No abstract provided.

Book Review: Practicing The Way: Be With Jesus, Become Like Him, Do As He Did, By John Mark Comer, Steve Case

Journal of Adventist Youth and Young Adult Ministries

No abstract provided.

Book Review: Partnering Church And Home: Discipleship For The Next Generation, By Denise Muir Kjesbo, Shelley Henning, And Luz Gálvez De Figueroa, Nelson Silva

Journal of Adventist Youth and Young Adult Ministries

No abstract provided.

Book Review: Imaginative Prayer: A Yearlong Guide For Your Child’S Spiritual Formation, By Jared Patrick Boyd, Steve Case

Journal of Adventist Youth and Young Adult Ministries

No abstract provided.

Effects Of Water Depth On Heart Rate, Rate Of Perceived Exertion, And Gait During Underwater Treadmill Walking In Healthy Older Adults, Edgar Gonzalez, Hayley Moore, Sage Robertson, Riley Tucker

Undergraduate Posters

Some of the aging population do not meet the American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) guidelines for physical activity. This is due to numerous barriers: pain, fear of injury, and limitation with mobility. Underwater treadmill (UWT) training, a specific type of aquatic exercise, supports cardiovascular and muscular health while providing low impact on the joints. Underwater treadmill allows the exercise intensity to be manipulated through the depth and the speed. However, the effects of varying immersion heights on heart rate (HR), rate of perceived exertion (RPE), and stride frequency (SF) in a healthy older adult population remain unclear. Thus, the …

Impact Of Obesity On Complication Rates After Treatment Of Slipped Capital Femoral Epiphysis: A Retrospective Cohort Database Study, Holden Archer, Scott B Rosenfeld, Pablo Castañeda, Jessica A Mcgraw-Heinrich, Simon P Kelley

Faculty, Staff and Students Publications

Background: While obesity is a well-established risk factor for slipped capital femoral epiphysis (SCFE), limited data exist regarding its impact on postoperative complication rates. This study aimed to evaluate the association between obesity and complications following SCFE treatment.

Methods: We queried a large national database for pediatric patients who underwent treatment for SCFE between June 2005 and June 2025. We divided this cohort into patients with obesity and patients without obesity. We matched the cohorts with a propensity scoring algorithm on a one-to-one basis, resulting in 1,175 patients in each group. We tracked outcomes including infection, pulmonary embolism (PE), chondrolysis, …

A Scoping Review Of The Associations Between Ascariasis, Helicobacter Pylori Infection And Gastric Pathologies, Nina L Tang, Jacob J Williams, Jennifer Stockton, Maria Elena Bottazzi, Jill E Weatherhead

Library Staff Publications

Ascaris infection-ascariasis-is the most common human parasitic worm infection worldwide and induces damage and cellular changes within the stomach. Helicobacter pylori is a bacterium of the stomach that also causes gastric pathologies globally. Importantly, Ascaris, H. pylori, and gastric diseases all disproportionately affect individuals in resource-limited settings. However, the associations between ascariasis, H. pylori infection, and gastric diseases remain relatively unexplored. We synthesized the existing research associating Ascaris infection with H. pylori infection and/or gastric pathologies. Records were identified in OVID Medline, Embase and Web of Science using search terms for ascariasis, H. pylori infection, and gastric abnormalities and additional …