Medicine and Health Sciences Commons^™

Fertility And Birth Rates In The Mountain West, 2024, Sydney Mitchell, Maisoon Faris, Caitlin J. Saladino, William E. Brown Jr.

Health

This fact sheet reports 2024 data on the overall birth rate and birth-related health measures in the five Mountain West states of Arizona, Colorado, New Mexico, Nevada, and Utah using data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) website. This fact sheet includes information from the National Center for Health Statistics, “Statistics by State” subsection related to birth. This subsection focuses on fertility rates, teen birth rates, infant mortality rates, births to unmarried mothers, cesarean deliveries, pre-term births, and infants with low birth weight.

College Of Fine Arts Outreach And Health Promotion For Injury Prevention: A Service Learning Project, Andrea Bejaran-Choto, Emily Horner, Marlene Quirarte, Shaye Robles, Dora Segura, Duc Tu, Trevor Williams

UNLV Theses, Dissertations, Professional Papers, and Capstones

Introduction: This community-based academic initiative targeted a significant deficiency regarding rehabilitative care and wellness assets for Southern Nevada's fine arts practitioners. Despite possessing trauma frequency rates similar to those of collegiate-level athletes, this demographic lacks sufficient infrastructure for health support. The endeavor sought to bolster the University of Nevada, Las Vegas College of Fine Arts (CFA) and the regional performance art sector utilizing the UNLV College of Fine Arts Physical Therapy Clinic (CFA-PTC).

Description: The initiative focused on three essential objectives: (1) augmenting student consciousness and utilization of therapeutic care at the CFA-PTC, (2) broadening health-related guidance for the artistic …

Feasibility Of A Functional Reach Tool For Individuals With Lower Extremity Amputations, Neil Bongolan, Dustin Hoy, Ashlyn Strange

UNLV Theses, Dissertations, Professional Papers, and Capstones

Purpose: Patients with lower extremity amputations are at increased risk of falls due to decreased balance ability between amputated and sound side. The purpose of this study was to examine the usefulness of a reaching tool for practitioners to assess balance in an inpatient rehab facility. It was anticipated that clinicians will find the reaching device useful when administering the Functional Reach Test (FRT) in a clinical setting, given the frequent use of these assessments and the device’s demonstrated reliability.

Participants: Physical Therapists and patients at an Inpatient Rehab Facility in Henderson, Nevada

Materials/Methods: A prototype reaching tool was provided …

Exploring The Biological Basis For Exercise Neuroprotection In Parkinson’S Disease: A Cross-Sectional Study Of Exercise And Physical Activity On Inflammatory Cytokines And Neurotrophins, Leah Isabelle P. Alegre, Jacob M. Brewer, Adeline Florschutz, Kate E. Hamiltonthompson

UNLV Theses, Dissertations, Professional Papers, and Capstones

Regular exercise and physical therapy are known to increase production of neurotrophins, including brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), and anti-inflammatory cytokines. These changes combine to theoretically protect and slow the progressive loss of neurons in Parkinson’s disease (PD). The purpose of this study was to examine the effect of exercise and physical activity on various anti-inflammatory and pro-inflammatory cytokines and neurotrophins in people with PD (PwP). This was a cross-sectional design involving PwP (n=37), aged 43-85 years, who participated in two 30-minute bouts of exercise (with brief rest breaks during and pre/post blood draws) separated by a week. Measures collected prior …

Uneven Terrain Treadmill Training For Lower Limb Prosthesis Users: A Feasibility Study, Brian Diep, Keegan Feroah, Ani Gasparyan, Nevena Jovanovic

UNLV Theses, Dissertations, Professional Papers, and Capstones

Individuals with lower limb amputation (LLA) face an increased risk for falls which may limit mobility, confidence, and participation in daily activities. Current rehabilitation programs for this population rarely integrate surface training as an intervention, despite walking on different surfaces being a necessity to participate in the real world. This feasibility study aimed to evaluate the practicality, acceptability, and preliminary efficacy of an uneven treadmill training protocol for individuals with LLA. Five adults with LLA (P1: transfemoral, 38 years old, 1.75 m, 88.8 kg; P2: hip disarticulation, 38 years old, 1.60 m, 106.7 kg; P3: transfemoral, 53 years old, 1.81 …

Unlv Pt Admissions: The Relationship Between Mismatched Gender Or Race Of Applicants Compared To Interviewer On In-Person And Asynchronous Interview Scores, Sarah Dudley, Calvin Kwok

UNLV Theses, Dissertations, Professional Papers, and Capstones

Purpose/Hypothesis:

Despite a growing push for diversity in healthcare, the impact of interviewer-applicant demographic alignment on scoring remains under-researched within the specific context of physical therapy admissions, particularly across different interview platforms. A sex or race concordance bias has the potential to compromise a program’s reliability of applicant evaluations and conflicts with the ethical standards of equity and nondiscrimination that guide healthcare education and practice. In this study we aimed to determine the relationship between sex and race concordance of interviewers and applicants for both in-person and asynchronous virtual interview scores at the University of Las Vegas Physical Therapy (UNLV …

Effect Of An Exercise Protocol On Balance In Adults With Down Syndrome, Juan Bernal, Natalie Sato

UNLV Theses, Dissertations, Professional Papers, and Capstones

Purpose/Hypothesis: Down syndrome (Ds) is a complex genetic condition that can impact multiple systems of the body, including functional balance. Ds-specific impairments such as muscle hypotonia, ligamentous laxity, and decreased muscle strength, coupled with a sedentary lifestyle can result in poor motor control, altered proprioceptive function, static and dynamic instability. Visual and vestibular impairments are also common in this population, increasing fall risk and fear of falling, and discouraging participation in physical activity. The aim of this study is to analyze the impact of a physical therapy-based exercise program on the functional balance of adults with Ds.

Number of Subjects: …

Effects Of A 12-Week Physical Therapy-Based Exercise Intervention On Gait In Adults With Down Syndrome, Samantha Betts, Stephen Kiraly, Paige Lucero, James Malabanan

UNLV Theses, Dissertations, Professional Papers, and Capstones

Background: Individuals with Down Syndrome (Ds) frequently have sedentary lifestyles and Ds-specific physical impairments such as ligamentous laxity and hypotonia. These impairments often contribute to gait deviations that reduce the efficiency of ambulation. Purpose: The purpose of this study was to examine the effects of a 12-week exercise program on spatiotemporal characteristics of gait and kinematic variables at the hip, knee, and ankle in adults with Down syndrome (Ds). Methods: A randomized control trial of 40 participants was conducted with two groups: one group of adults with Ds who participated in a 12-week exercise program, and a control group who …

Mid- To Long-Term Recovery After Non-Traumatic Lower Limb Amputation: A Scoping Review Of Longitudinal Research Studies, Chloe Akiona-Bannan, Jocelyn Contreras, Kayla Cheyenne Bonsol Francisco, Kentaro Lee

UNLV Theses, Dissertations, Professional Papers, and Capstones

Objective

Longitudinal research studies are essential for understanding the time course of functional recovery after lower limb amputation (LLA). The purpose of this scoping review was to evaluate the existing evidence base regarding mid- to long-term outcomes following non-traumatic LLA.

Data Sources

A scoping review was conducted per Joanna Briggs Institute and Open Sciences Framework guidelines. Based on purpose, seven databases (PubMed, CINAHL, Embase, Scopus, Web of Science, SportDiscus, and Google Scholar) were searched for studies published between 2000–2024, in English, Mandarin Chinese, Tagalog, Persian, or Spanish.

Study Selection

Eligible studies must include at least 50% of participants with non-traumatic …

Anatomy Academy: An Interdisciplinary Approach To Enhancing Youth Health Literacy, Roselle Antikoll, Jonathan Nakamine, Jessica Tran

UNLV Theses, Dissertations, Professional Papers, and Capstones

To enhance health literacy among the underserved youth population in Las Vegas, Nevada, Anatomy Academy (AA) is an eight-week, seven-lesson program that educates students through structured and interactive lesson plans covering basic anatomy, physiology, and nutrition. Our program was implemented in three different Title-I elementary schools between five different classrooms across Las Vegas. These lesson plans highlighted specific body systems including the cardiovascular, musculoskeletal, and gastrointestinal systems. Our primary aim was centered around involvement of more interdisciplinary healthcare professions including occupational therapy, dental medicine, osteopathic medicine, and nutrition to aid in the delivery of the AA program. Our secondary aim …

Postural And Load Dependent Modulation Of Lower Limb H-Reflex Excitability After Stroke, Daniel Bamiro, Matthew Berdiago, Ethan Hunter, Tia Nguyen

UNLV Theses, Dissertations, Professional Papers, and Capstones

Purpose/Hypothesis

Leg stiffness is regulated by reflexive, intrinsic, and passive mechanisms, which are influenced by posture, body weight loading, and motor task demands. After a stroke, the capacity to modulate these mechanisms is often compromised. The H-reflex is a widely used electrophysiological tool to assess the excitability of the Ia afferent pathway within spinal circuitry. Although prior studies in healthy individuals have examined limb loading effects, results have been variable, and the role of postural and loading changes during standing remains underexplored, particularly in individuals post-stroke. This study investigated how different postural and limb loading conditions, specifically prone, standing, and …

Golden Steps: A Dance-Based Program To Improve Balance In Older Adults — A Feasibility And Acceptability Study, Ramyr Bognot, Sophia Botelho, Nolan Caberto, Lauren Valerio, Joshua Yu, Jason Zeidman

UNLV Theses, Dissertations, Professional Papers, and Capstones

Background

Falls are a leading cause of injury and loss of independence among older adults. Evidence-based programs such as Otago and Tai Ji Quan reduce fall risk, yet barriers to access and adherence remain. Dance-based interventions may offer a practical, enjoyable approach to engage older adults in balance training.

Purpose

This formative pilot study aimed to develop four dance routines grounded in evidence- based balance principles and evaluate their feasibility and acceptability among older adults, including factors influencing enjoyment and willingness to continue participation, to inform future clinical and community implementation.

Methods

Four routines (Polka, Country, Rockabilly, Salsa) were developed …

The Exploration Of Leisure Occupations For Older Adults, Chloe Jisoo Kang

UNLV Theses, Dissertations, Professional Papers, and Capstones

Introduction: This capstone project involved the development and implementation of a community-based program for the exploration of leisure occupations for older adults. The program aimed to increase the life satisfaction and occupational balance of participants. A manualized program was created for the capstone site for potential continuation of the program.

Methods: The program was developed with the support of evidence-based research and the Occupational Therapy Practice Framework (OTPF-4). Two-hour events were held once a week for four weeks in a community area of the senior living community. A modified version of the Occupational Balance Questionnaire (OBQ11) and the Satisfaction with …

Evaluation Of Two Bioaerosol Sampling And Analysis Methods For The Collection Of Airborne Bacteria And Viruses, Elizabeth Detrick

UNLV Theses, Dissertations, Professional Papers, and Capstones

Bioaerosols, defined as airborne particles of biological origin, include bacteria, fungi, viruses, and their byproducts. They are ubiquitous in both indoor and outdoor environments and can cause respiratory infections, allergic reactions, and toxin-mediated illnesses. Air sampling plays a vital role in bioaerosol monitoring by enabling the collection and analysis of airborne microorganisms to assess exposure risk and inform mitigation strategies. The objective of this study was to determine the relative collection efficiency of two air samplers, the MD8 Airscan, a filtration sampling method, and the SKC BioSampler, an impingement sampling method. Aerosolization tests were conducted in a controlled test chamber …

Correlation Of Buccolingual Angulation Of Posterior Teeth And Transverse Skeletal Width In Adult Orthodontic Patients: A Retrospective Cbct Study, Anya T. Hatfield

UNLV Theses, Dissertations, Professional Papers, and Capstones

Objective:

Accurate evaluation of transverse skeletal relationships is essential for orthodontic diagnosis and treatment planning. Dentition may compensate for skeletal discrepancies through buccolingual tipping of posterior teeth, potentially masking underlying transverse imbalance. The purpose of this study was to investigate the relationship between transverse skeletal width and posterior tooth angulation using cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT).

Methods:

Sixty-six pre-orthodontic adult CBCT scans were analyzed. Maxillary and mandibular transverse skeletal widths were measured at the level of the first molar furcation using buccal cortical plate– to–buccal cortical plate landmarks. Buccolingual angulation of the first and second premolars and first and second molars …

Resilience Of Orthodontic Sealants Against Degradation And Microbial Adhesion: A Comparative Study, Michelle X. Cui

UNLV Theses, Dissertations, Professional Papers, and Capstones

Background:

White spot lesions are one of the most common complications encountered during orthodontic treatment. These lesions begin as demineralization of enamel around the appliance due to plaque buildup, resulting in compromised aesthetics. As they continue to develop, white spot lesions progress to cavitation, potentially threatening pulpal vitality, resulting in an increased financial burden for patients. Preventative strategies include patient education, consistent oral hygiene protocols, and the use of fluoride-releasing agents. Orthodontic sealants such as Opal® Seal™ (Ultradent) (OS) and L.E.D. Pro Seal® (Reliance) (PS) have been developed to release and recharge fluoride, thereby reducing the incidence of white spot …

Correlation Between Maxillary Sinus Volume And Maxillomandibular Size, Position, And Dental Occlusion: A Cbct Retrospective Study, Philip Villanueva Punzalan

UNLV Theses, Dissertations, Professional Papers, and Capstones

This investigation used cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) based three dimensional imaging to evaluate correlations between maxillary sinus volume and maxillomandibular skeletal size, position, and dental occlusion in an adult orthodontic population. A retrospective sample of 107 pretreatment CBCT scans (40 males and 67 females), aged 18–59 years, was analyzed. Right and left maxillary sinuses were segmented independently using semi-automatic volumetric segmentation in ITK-SNAP software, and total sinus volume was calculated in cubic millimeters (mm³). Linear and angular skeletal measurements of the maxilla and mandible were obtained using Anatomage TxSTUDIOViewer application software. Patients were categorized according to anteroposterior (A-P) skeletal …

Examining Demographic And Contextual Differences In Stress-Related Sport Interference Among U.S. Collegiate Sport Participants, Heather Tran

UNLV Theses, Dissertations, Professional Papers, and Capstones

Collegiate athletes experience a range of stressors that may interfere with sport performance; however less is known about how stress-related sport interference varies across demographic groups and contexts. Guided by the transactional model of stress and coping, this study examined differences in stress-related sport interference by gender, race/ethnicity, and year in school, as well as across situational contexts (training, competition, and life outside of sport). Data were drawn from a secondary dataset of 288 collegiate sport participants who completed the Sport Interference Checklist (SIC). Independent samples t-test and analyses of variance (ANOVA) were used to examined demographic differences, and a …

Effect Of The Sava Syndemic On Hiv Viral Suppression Among People Living With Hiv In The United States: A Scoping Review And Meta-Analysis, Jacquelyn Rodriguez

UNLV Theses, Dissertations, Professional Papers, and Capstones

The SAVA syndemic highlights the interconnected and mutually reinforcing nature of substance use, violence victimization, and HIV/AIDS. The synergistic interaction of these conditions creates structural and behavioral barriers that disrupt the HIV care continuum and contribute to significant health inequities. Achieving a suppressed viral load is a critical clinical outcome for people living with HIV, while viral non-suppression can be an indicator of poor health, elevated transmission risk, and disease progression. Still, the association between SAVA factors and viral suppression/non-suppression outcomes within U.S. populations remains inconsistently characterized due to heterogeneous methodologies and variable inclusion of high-risk groups. This mixed-methods study …

A Comparison Of Changes In Vertical Cephalometric Measurements In Patients Treated With Invisalign And Traditional Fixed Orthodontic Appliances: A Retrospective Study, Shayna Mesko

UNLV Theses, Dissertations, Professional Papers, and Capstones

Background: Since their introduction into the field, clear aligners have significantly grown in popularity in orthodontics as they offer enhanced esthetics, improved oral hygiene, and patient comfort. Clear aligners have allowed clinicians to simulate treatment outcomes, streamline treatment with reduced office visits, control force and movement per tray, and provide more precise control of focal tooth movements. This can enhance efficiency in achieving specific and very finite orthodontic goals. Since their inception, clear aligners have evolved from only accomplishing simple tooth movements to achieving more complex and comprehensive mechanics. While they have significantly advanced, there are still limitations in efficacy …

Unknowing Sacrifices: Public Health And Radiation Illness In New Mexico And Nevada, 1940s-1960s, Beatriz Avila-Marquez

UNLV Theses, Dissertations, Professional Papers, and Capstones

The detonation of the first atomic bomb in the early morning of July 16, 1945, in New Mexico welcomed the atomic age that forever changed the world. After that day, thousands of lives were lost due to nuclear weapons, and hundreds of thousands more continued to suffer from the effects of atomic testing. The Atomic Energy Commission, fueled by the arms race of the Cold War, chose Nevada to continue the United States’ nuclear weapons testing. Knowledge of the dangers of radiation exposure, the effects of radiation, and techniques to prevent exposure are now available in part due to the …

Cortical Bone Density And Thickness Assessment Of Intraradicular Sites In Adolescent Patients Using Cbct Imaging, Sara Endo

UNLV Theses, Dissertations, Professional Papers, and Capstones

Background: The indications for the use of cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) in orthodontics has grown since it was first introduced and dentists are discovering new ways that 3D images enhance diagnosis and treatment planning. Evaluating bone quality and quantity can be measured as bone density and thickness in CBCT imaging and is helpful for temporary anchorage device (TAD) placement in orthodontic treatment. TADs rely on primary stability and are commonly used in orthodontic treatment to increase anchorage and expand the limit that nonsurgical orthodontics can provide.

Objectives: This study aims to assess the bone thickness and density at different …

The Impact Of Youth Sport On Occupational Balance: A Survey Study, Sean Jones

UNLV Theses, Dissertations, Professional Papers, and Capstones

Youth sport has been highly researched, exploring both positive and negative health impacts (Adetunji & Akendutire, 2017; Brengtsson et al., 2025; Conway, 2024; Hoffman et al., 2022). Despite the high prevalence of youth sport participation, and variability of health-related outcomes, there has been no research regarding the impact youth sport participation has on occupational balance, an occupational therapy concept that has been linked with overall health and well-being (Park et al., 2021). A mixed-methods, cross-sectional survey study was used to gain better insights into the impact youth sport participation may have on occupational balance. A sample size of 466 Nevada …

Correlation Between Maxillary Transverse Width, Alveolar Housing Width And Palatal Bone Thickness: A Cbct Retrospective Study, Eric G. Hollensbe

UNLV Theses, Dissertations, Professional Papers, and Capstones

Background:

Accurate assessment of transverse maxillary dimensions and surrounding bone morphology is critical for safe orthodontic treatment planning. Orthodontic expansion should remain within the biological limits of the alveolar housing and palatal bone to prevent adverse periodontal outcomes, including dehiscence, fenestration, and gingival recession. Standard diagnostic methods, such as dental casts and two-dimensional radiographs, offer limited information about the three-dimensional anatomy that restricts orthodontic tooth movement. Cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) provides detailed evaluation of skeletal dimensions and cortical bone boundaries. This study aimed to examine the relationships among maxillary transverse width, alveolar housing thickness, and palatal thickness using CBCT imaging. …

Healthcare Provider Trust As A Predictor Of Covid-19 Vaccine Hesitancy Among Nevada Residents, Joanna Joseph

UNLV Theses, Dissertations, Professional Papers, and Capstones

Trust in healthcare providers is one of the strongest predictors of vaccine hesitancy in the literature, yet it has not been examined as an independent predictor of COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy in Nevada. Nevada ranks last nationally in healthcare providers per capita and is among the lowest in immunization coverage for both adults and children. The COVID-19 pandemic exacerbated negative vaccine attitudes, and vaccine hesitancy continues to be a central public health issue. Prior Nevada analyses identified vaccine hesitancy across racial, political, educational, and economic groups but did not assess the role of provider trust in vaccine hesitancy. This cross-sectional study …

The Contribution Of Psychophysiological Stress Factors On Muscle Cramp Susceptibility, Lauren D. Levine

UNLV Theses, Dissertations, Professional Papers, and Capstones

Exercise-associated muscle cramps (EAMCs) are painful phenomenon that involves involuntary muscle spasms occurring during physical activity or directly after. 1 The landscape of the research on EAMC etiology has expanded from focusing on a single prevailing cause (e.g., hydration status) to a more holistic approach of how numerous factors contribute to the onset of neuromuscular fatigue, and the significance of each factor in those who suffer from EAMC. Following the multifactorial theory of cramp pathophysiology, this research sought to advance the knowledge of cramp susceptibility by investigating if there is a relationship between common psychophysiological factors like high anxiety, sleep …

Addressing Sexual Health For Older Veterans By Healthcare Providers: A Mixed Method Study, Andrew James White

UNLV Theses, Dissertations, Professional Papers, and Capstones

Background: Older adults remain sexually active, yet sexual health is frequently under-discussed in healthcare settings, particularly within veteran populations. Sexual health is essential to overall quality of life, and prior studies have shown that older patients value these conversations. However, veterans often face unique factors such as military-related trauma, including military combat exposure and post-traumatic stress disorder, in addition to compounded stigma from these topics in regards to open discussions about sensitive health issues to their healthcare providers. This study is significant in its potential to uncover systemic, cultural, and interpersonal influences that shape these dynamics, with a particular emphasis …

Enhancing Psychosocial Well-Being And Quality Of Life In Parkinson’S Disease: Integrating Patient Experiences And Physical Therapists’ Expertise, Adetayo Adeoti Babarinde

UNLV Theses, Dissertations, Professional Papers, and Capstones

Parkinson’s disease (PD) is characterized by a wide range of non-motor symptoms that often affect the quality of life of persons with Parkinson’s disease (PwPD) even more profoundly than the motor symptoms typically associated with the condition. These non-motor symptoms include olfactory and gastrointestinal dysfunction, cognitive impairments, sleep disturbances, and psychological and social concerns. Psychosocial concerns include the mental, emotional, and social impact of PD on an individual’s functioning and, overall well-being. They reflect the interplay between symptoms of the disease, psychological development and functioning, personal relationships, and environmental factors. Mental health and psychosocial concerns such as depression, anxiety, fear …

Got Sleep?: The Introduction Of Sleep Hygiene To Justice Involved Individuals, Charisma Lynn Cato

UNLV Theses, Dissertations, Professional Papers, and Capstones

Individuals transitioning out of incarceration often experience challenges with sleep due to the residual effects of confinement. Although this is common among justice-involved individuals, there is limited research on how to address their sleep hygiene self-efficacy after release. Furthermore, despite the wide use of social-emotional learning (SEL) across multiple disciplines, little is known about its influence on sleep-related behavior change in re-entry populations. To address this, the Got Sleep program, designed and implemented at Hope for Prisoners (HOPE), a community site geared toward re-entry assistance, integrated occupational therapy (OT) principles and an SEL approach with practical sleep hygiene strategies to …

An Occupation-Based Protocol For Mobile-Gaming Ergonomics, Lan Doan

UNLV Theses, Dissertations, Professional Papers, and Capstones

The increasing prevalence of mobile gaming has introduced unique ergonomic challenges that may contribute to musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) and repetitive strain injuries (RSIs). The purpose of this feasibility study was to evaluate the practicality and preliminary effectiveness of an ergonomic protocol designed to improve posture, reduce pain, and maintain gaming performance among mobile gamers. A pre-post design was implemented with two participants aged 18–34 years. The six-week intervention included ergonomic education, postural training, scheduled breaks, and targeted stretching and strengthening exercises. Quantitative data on gaming performance using Call of Duty Mobile Scores, pain assessed through the Short-form McGill Pain Questionnaire …