Medicine and Health Sciences Commons^™

The Accuracy Of Recreational Athletes In Self Detecting Ventilation Threshold During A Maximal Exercise Test, Andrew Biegner

Williams Honors College, Honors Research Projects

INTRODUCTION: Ventilatory threshold (VT) is where minute ventilation (VE) increases nonlinearly with increasing exercise intensity. Prior studies have shown that subjects can recognize VT by changes in breathing during exercise. Teaching recreational athletes to use VT as a training method could result in better quality training. PURPOSE: Determine if recreational athletes can accurately perceive changes in ventilation associated with VT during maximal exercise testing. METHODS: Subjects were recruited (n=20, age= 20.5 ± 1.7 yrs.) to participate in the study. Subjects performed a modified maximal treadmill protocol with gas analysis. Subjects indicated when they noticed a considerable change …

Mouthpiece For Patients With Neuromuscular Disorders, Rebekah Starkey, Carissa Thompson, Michael Dickens, Andrew Pero

Williams Honors College, Honors Research Projects

Neuromuscular Disorders (NMDs) impact people throughout the world. An early hallmark of these disorders includes some degree of facial muscle weakness. Respiratory testing is important to evaluate the progression of these patients’ NMDs. However, these tests require that the patient purses their lips around a mouthpiece to create a tight seal. This is a difficult task for one with facial muscle degeneration. This often leads to results that fail to reflect the patient’s true respiratory ability and prevents their physician from providing the appropriate degree of care. The objective of this project was to develop a face mask or mouthpiece …

The Impact Of The Covid-19 Pandemic On Special Education: A Case Study, Megan Cercone

Williams Honors College, Honors Research Projects

The purpose of this research project is to explore the possible impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on special education by evaluating the experiences of one child with disabilities who attends public schools. METHODS: A semi-structured interview was conducted with the two parents of the child, who has physical disabilities and an IEP through his school, meaning he receives special education services through intervention teachers, physical therapists, occupational therapists, and speech therapists. The interview was recorded and transcribed, and then interview transcripts were evaluated to identify themes in the subjects’ responses regarding their child’s experience with public education during the pandemic. …

A Case Study On Special Education And The Covid-19 Pandemic, Megan Cercone

Williams Honors College, Honors Research Projects

The purpose of this qualitative project is to explore the implications of online public schooling for a student with special needs, how this type of teaching impacted his individualized education plan (IEP), and investigate solutions to the consequences of the pandemic for special education. I am specifically interested in how the student's online education may have affected his progress in the physical, occupational, and speech therapy services he typically receives in school as required by his IEP. This project entails interviews of the parents and school-based occupational therapists of a child with special needs to examine the impact online schooling …

Sand & Swim Leg, Victoria Mclaughlin, Allison Testa, Chloe Davidson, Reagan Lindsay, Jessica Galford

Williams Honors College, Honors Research Projects

Sand and Swim Leg, is addressing the clinical need of limited options for lower-limb amputees to participate in water activities. We will follow the FDA Medical Device Design Process throughout our two semester course. Initially, we created our team agreement and delegated team roles and responsibilities. Then, we conducted background research on the clinical need, competitive products, and existing patents. After compiling and discussing research amongst our team, we contacted stakeholders that would be affected by our product. Our stakeholders include our below-the-knee amputee client, an above-the-knee amputee, pediatric prosthetists, and our client’s prosthetists. We conducted interviews with our stakeholders …

Does Exercise Improve Lung Function In A Young Adult With Cystic Fibrosis?, Hanna Mackey

Williams Honors College, Honors Research Projects

Abstract

Cystic fibrosis (CF), is an inherited genetic disease that leads to damage of the respiratory system. This disease not only impacts the lungs, but most organ systems of the body. Normal fluids in the body become thick, clogging important pathways in the body such as in the lungs and the pancreas. PURPOSE: To examine the effect of cardiorespiratory exercise training on lung function. The purpose of this study was to examine how introducing an aerobic-based exercise training program impacts patients with CF. The question is, “Does exercise improve lung function in a young adult with Cystic Fibrosis?”. METHODS: A …

Parent/ Caregiver Burnout With Autism Due To Covid, Leah Recker, Erin Babcock

Williams Honors College, Honors Research Projects

The purpose of this project is to gain an understanding how parents of children with autism are affected by caregiver burnout. We want to understand the different factors that contribute to this burnout and analyze how individuals are affected differently. To do this, we are sending

out a survey using Likert scale items to assess parents’ stress and burnout. We will be carefully selecting statements based off information we gather through peer reviewed journal articles. We would then like the parents to decide how strongly they agree or disagree with each question. This will create a more in-depth picture of …

Neurally Adjusted Ventilatory Assist: Summation Of The Safety Proofs And Benefits, Landry Carneal

Williams Honors College, Honors Research Projects

Neurally Adjusted Ventilatory Assist (NAVA) is a mode of ventilation that is triggered by neither flow nor pressure but by the electrical activity of the diaphragm (Stein & Firestone, 2018, p. 227). NAVA puts ventilatory control into the hands of the patient and is often used in neonates who are more challenging to ventilate. Medical practitioners, however, are skeptical to put this mode of ventilation into practice with fear that neonates are neither strong enough nor capable to manage their own respiratory efforts without hypoventilation or damage to the lungs (Lubarsky et al., 2020, p. 3). Research shows that despite …

The Effect Of Biomechanical Variables On Injury Rates: A Literature Review, Nicholas Stricklen

Williams Honors College, Honors Research Projects

Long distance running has become a highly-participated activity throughout the world, allowing individuals to reap the health benefits and become physically fit. The issue with endurance running, or long distance running, is that an overuse in the lower extremities often results in injuries in the leg, foot, ankle, or hip. Often, these lower extremity injuries are not caused by overuse, but rather, an issue with biomechanics. The purpose of this literature review is to study three biomechanical variables and how they relate to injuries. Cadence, foot strike pattern, and vertical oscillation are biomechanical variables that contribute to injury rates. Most …

Custom 3d Printed Orthotic, Dakota Kirtley, Andrew Wiles

Williams Honors College, Honors Research Projects

The goal of this senior design projet is to develop a cutsom 3D printed orthotic shoe insert. Pressure mapping, laser scanning, and 3D modeling will be used to create a truly custom orthotic for each foot. Pressure mapping will give the weight distribution on an individual's food and the laser scanner will give the x-y coordinates of the foot. these two together will be used to generate a a 3D model which will then be 3D printed to create a custom orthotic. Research and material testing will also be done to determine the best material type to be used in …

Effects Of A Strength Training Intervention And Quality Of Life: Case Study On A Sedentary Adult Female, Lucas Frazier

Williams Honors College, Honors Research Projects

The purpose of the project is to evaluate physiological and quality of life changes in a

sedentary, senior-aged (55 or older) female using a six-week strength training

intervention. This case study will instruct how to perform a push-pull-legs split

routine by going to the gym three times per week. Prior to the six week intervention,

both quantitative and qualitative variables will be collected to assess baseline data,

including the subject’s resting heart rate, resting blood pressure, grip strength, one-

repetition maximum on seven whole body exercises (dumbbell bicep curl, tricep

pushdown, barbell bench press, wide-grip lat pull-down, seated dumbbell press, …

Åstrand-Rhyming And Ymca: A Compare And Contrast Literature Review Of Two Submaximal Cycle Ergometer Tests, Sean Roberts

Williams Honors College, Honors Research Projects

In the world of exercise prescription there are two major protocols that are used to test an individual’s aerobic capacity at a submaximal intensity using a stationary bicycle. These protocols require participants to exercise at a constant work rate until a specified hear rate is reached. Data can then be analyzed to determine the participant’s aerobic capacity. The objective of this literature review is to look at these two tests – the Åstrand-Rhyming cycle ergometer test (ARCET) and the YMCA cycle ergometer test – and determine if one is better than the other for different populations and which one an …

Quickcough: An Instrumentational Proximal Airway Clearance Technique (Act) For Select Patients With Neuromuscular Disease (Nmd), Sean X. Sullivan, Russell K. Catania, Madison K. Plaster, Sydney E. Kandray, Mariah Costa

Williams Honors College, Honors Research Projects

Patients with neuromuscular disease (NMD) requiring tracheostomy and mechanical ventilation secondary to respiratory failure encounter increased difficulty in removing pulmonary secretions from the airways. To combat issues associated with current treatment modalities for insufficient cough efficacy (cost, poor mobility, discomfort, lack of evidence), we have developed an instrumentational proximal airway clearance technique (ACT) which augments a manual proximal ACT developed by a client with NMD. QuickCough is a 3D-printed PLA attachment to the tracheostomy apparatus which has demonstrated its ability to facilitate pressure changes necessary to increase patient’s peak cough flow (PCF) by providing a stronger exsufflation for the patient. …

Systematic Review Of Sensory Integrations With Autism Spectrum Disorder, Cierra Simmons

Williams Honors College, Honors Research Projects

Autism Spectrum Disorder is a developmental disorder that can affect communication and behavior. In children a sensory diet is utilized in order to address these issues. Research has been completed over the years looking into the effects of different sensory integrations on classroom behavior and participation. This is a comparison study of various integrations including, but not limited to, vestibular swinging, therapy balls, and therapy cushions. It is often up to an Occupational Therapist to create a sensory diet for each student on a caseload. The purpose of this study was to discover if there is one treatment that can …

The Effect Of Swimming Exercise On Amount And Quality Of Sleep For Children With Autism Spectrum Disorder, Kayla E. Wilson

Williams Honors College, Honors Research Projects

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) may alter not only cognitive but also physical aspects of individuals. One physical element that is commonly impacted by ASD is sleep pattern. In fact, there is a large margin of sleep disturbances in the ASD population compared to typically functioning individuals. PURPOSE: To examine the effect of various levels of physical activity intensity in an aquatic setting and the impact on sleep quality. The question in focus is simply, “What is the effect of swimming exercise on quality and amount of sleep for children with Autism Spectrum Disorder?” METHODS: Guardians of children with Autism Spectrum …

Parents' Feelings And Perceptions Towards Their Child's Speech Or Language Disorder, Elizabeth Holley

Williams Honors College, Honors Research Projects

Throughout society, there remains a stigma in regards to a person’s speech and language. While the stereotype that a person with a speech or language disorder may have a lower quality of life shines light on the perceptions of mainstream society, there has been research that provides insight into parent’s feelings. The purpose of this project was to explore the research regarding parents’ feelings and perceptions towards their child’s speech or language disorder by conducting a literature review and a questionnaire that could be used as a measuring tool. The researchers used a questionnaire to focus on two main points: …

The Effect Of Foot Strike In Female Runners, Courtney Dockry

Williams Honors College, Honors Research Projects

Abstract

PURPOSE: The purpose of this study is to determine if heel and forefoot striking influence on the amount and type of injuries in recreational female distance runners between the ages of 18 and 25. In addition, shoe type and training intensity were analyzed in relation to injury. METHODS: A quantitative, cross-sectional study was conducted anonymously utilizing The University of Akron’s Qualtrics survey tool. The survey was adopted based on Goss and Gross (2012). The survey was sent via email to members of the Zips Running Club, as well as other runners who fit the criteria to participate …

Physical Therapy And The Integration Of Dry Needling, Katie Montgomery

Williams Honors College, Honors Research Projects

This research paper analyzes how the field of Physical Therapy has grown and evolved in the United States over the last sixty years. It also explores the education process of becoming a therapist, the responsibilities it entails, and the different treatment interventions therapist can use by taking a deeper look at the integration of dry needling techniques into the field of Physical Therapy.

Dry needling is defined and different techniques being utilized in the field currently are explained. Also discussed are locations where physical therapists are legally allowed to perform dry needling in the United States, the certification process, precautions …

Exploring Hydrotherapy With Autism, Allison Teske

Williams Honors College, Honors Research Projects

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC, 2010), have recently reported an increase in the number of children diagnosed with an Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). Occupational therapists who work with children diagnosed with an ASD focus on building skills in all areas of life such as daily living skills, education, play, and social communication, and in various environments such as school, home, and community (American Occupational Therapy Association [AOTA], 2009). Currently, occupational therapists working with children who have been diagnosed with an ASD are expanding the use of aquatic therapy (Vonder Hulls, Walker, & Powell, 2006) as a treatment …

The Effect Of Yoga And Breathing Exercises On Children With Autism, Leah Brausch

Williams Honors College, Honors Research Projects

The purpose of this case study was to determine the effects of yoga and breathing exercises on children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). Common characteristics of children with ASD were noted and observed throughout the study in order to determine effectiveness of the therapy at hand. Yoga therapy was implemented for nine (9) weeks through an at-home program. It was determined that, while long-term effects were not evident, there is reasonable evidence to implement yoga therapy to assist with focus and attention. This paper serves to review characteristics of children with ASD, typical therapies used to assist them and the …

The Effect Of Yoga In Reducing Pain Related To Arthritis: An Integrative Review Of The Literature, Meredith Collins, Corinne Reed

Williams Honors College, Honors Research Projects

Research shows that arthritis is the most common cause of disability in the United States (Middleton et al., 2013). The PICOT question for this systematic review of literature is “In adults over the age of 40 years, how do yoga interventions, compared to pharmacological pain relief methods alone, affect arthritic pain intensity and frequency?” This systematic review will discuss the possible benefits of using yoga as treatment for both rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis. The methods for this review included a comprehensive search yielding nineteen credible studies using the databases Search-A-Roo, Google Scholar, and CINAHL Plus for full-text academic journal articles …

Complementary And Alternative Medicine (Cam) And Adolescent Body Mass Index (Bmi): A National Population-Based Study, Laura Y. Defrain Lpn

Williams Honors College, Honors Research Projects

COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE (CAM) AND ADOLESCENT BODY MASS INDEX (BMI): A NATIONAL POPULATION-BASED STUDY

Abstract

Background

Childhood obesity rates in the United States have remained around 17% since the 1990s - this figure translates to an estimated 12.7 million obese children. Maintaining a healthy weight through adolescence may limit subsequent health risks in adulthood. Complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) encompasses a variety of non-pharmacological treatments and lifestyle choices that have been utilized in addition to or in place of typical Western medicine. The relationship between adolescent Body mass index (BMI) and the use of complementary and alternative medicine has …

Exploring Autism And The Caregiver Burden Relationship, Mary C. Drockton

Williams Honors College, Honors Research Projects

The purpose of this study was to collect qualitative data on the different stresses and burdens associated with being a caregiver for an autistic individual, and discover strategies of stress relief for caregivers. A total of four autism support group meetings hosted by the Autism Society of Greater Akron were attended and observed, with documentation of the discussion between the moderator of the meeting and the caregivers in attendance. Through observation of these meetings, common themes of stress in caregivers were revealed. These include: difficulty with the diagnosis process and finding medical treatment; seeking additional information on available medical treatments; …

The Effect Of Therapeutic Horseback Riding On Balance And Self-Efficacy In Children With Developmental Disabilities, Lauren M. Hurley, Alexandra Smola

Williams Honors College, Honors Research Projects

The prevalence of developmental disabilities in children in the United States is a serious problem. Since children with developmental disabilities often show decreased self-efficacy and balance, researchers have studied the effects of interventions in this population. The purpose of this study is to determine the effect of a 10-week THR session on balance and task-specific self-efficacy in children with physical disabilities ages 6 to 18 years old. Bandura’s social cognitive theory and The Physical Stress Theory will guide the quasi-experimental study. A pre-test post-test design will be implemented over a 12 week span at 3 different riding centers in the …

Association Of Running Biomechanics And Injury In Middle School Cross Country Runners, Rachel Salberg

Williams Honors College, Honors Research Projects

INTRODUCTION: While associations between running biomechanics and injury incidence have been fairly well investigated in the adult population, few studies have targeted the adolescent population. Since the adolescent developmental stage places certain vulnerabilities on athletes, adolescents typically sustain injuries that differ from those of adults (DiFiori J.P., et al, 2014). Due to these vulnerabilities, it would be relevant to investigate the biomechanics-injury relationship specifically in this population. PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to investigate the associations that exist between running gait characteristics and incidence of injury for middle school cross country runners METHODS: The running gait of 19 …

Body Image Differences Between University Students’ Major Of Study, Alissa C. Parsons

Williams Honors College, Honors Research Projects

Body image is a psychological feeling, which varies greatly based on factors including age, sex, and exercise participation. Body image is a critical factor to consider; positive body image is important in the prevention of health-related problems. PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to investigate if body image differences exist among students (Exercise Science and Engineering majors) at The University of Akron. This comparative study examining students, representative of educational background, was to explore if students’ major study of focus affected body image. METHODS: A 14-item survey using the Body Image States Scale (BISS), with questions related …

Puzzling Your Puzzler, Samantha Brown

Williams Honors College, Honors Research Projects

The following is summarizing a proposed experimental study based on current literature review and research to evaluate a new interventional therapy for the treatment of concussion compared to current therapeutic practices.

Background and Purpose: Concussions have become a major concern in the medical field in recent years. Several research studies have been conducted to learn the signs and symptoms regarding concussions. Recent literature has found that the signs and symptoms of a concussion are similar to those of patients suffering from Alzheimer’s disease. Treating Alzheimer’s disease has changed in recent years. Research has found that mental rehabilitation, also known as …

The Effects Of Sustainability As A Positive Attribute On Equine Therapy Design: An Interdisciplinary Study, Andria Sinclair

Williams Honors College, Honors Research Projects

Interdisciplinary studies have brought benefits to introducing new solutions to the traditional environment and traditional therapies. Sustainability in relation to design has been suggested in 2006, by the Center for Building Performance and Diagnostic (CBPD) at Carnegie Mellon University to incorporate daylight, solar, heat and ventilation of the natural environment combined with the innovations of current technologies (Whitmore, 2011). This paper will look at how sustainability plays a key role of benefits including those that are health associated with equine therapy design and its relationship to the patient, or end user. Interdisciplinary research in the therapeutic value of equine-human bonding …

The Effects Of Instructional Strategies On Adherence To A Flexibility Program And Physiological Outcomes, Taylor M. Graham

Williams Honors College, Honors Research Projects

Health care professionals construct exercise prescriptions for clients and patients to complete on their own. Exercise specialists, physical therapists, occupational therapists, and exercise physiologists are all considered health care professionals for this study. Furthermore, the importance of flexibility and stretching is commonly overlooked. The purpose of this research study was to compare whether or not different instructional techniques affect adherence to a stretching routine, and if followed were improvements gained in quadriceps and hamstring flexibility. Thirty-one students from The University of Akron between the ages of 18 and 37 with an average height of 66.7 inches and average weight of …

Role Of The Physical Therapist In Reducing Postoperative Complications In Type 2 Diabetics, Angela M. Formanik

Williams Honors College, Honors Research Projects

This article examines current research on the topic of reducing postoperative complications in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus. Type 2 diabetes is a metabolic condition with rapidly increasing prevalence. Patients with type 2 diabetes are twice as likely to undergo surgery for comorbid conditions compared to individuals without the disease (Zantidis, Iliadis, & Didangelos, 2011). Aside from higher instances of surgical intervention, type 2 diabetic patients experience a higher rate of perioperative complications compared to individuals without the disease (Holt, 2012). Concurrent conditions such as peripheral neuropathy and hyperglycemia put diabetic patients at a higher risk of surgical complications …