Medicine and Health Sciences Commons^™

Effects Of Meditation On Chronic Pain Management Among Older Adults, Katelyn R. Forsell

Doctor of Nursing Practice

The older adult population is expected to continue to grow. This population is more susceptible to facing chronic health conditions that often contribute to pain. Pain affects many aspects of an individual's life and can be debilitating, affecting physical and mental wellbeing. Chronic pain among older adults is often not well managed. Mindfulness meditation is a holistic healing modality that literature supports for pain mitigation (Creswell & Khoury, 2019). This scholarly project provided mindfulness meditation sessions to older adults in an independent and assisted living facility setting to help educate and guide them in reducing chronic pain. Pain reduction scores …

A Systematic Review Of The Long And Short-Term Effects Of Sports Related Concussions In Youth And Adolescent Athletes, Yasin Ahmed

Theses and Graduate Projects

Background: Sports-related concussions impact thousands of young athletes. They can lead to short- and long-term effects, such as headaches, behavioral changes, and memory issues. These consequences lead to general concerns about the safety of young athletes participating in sports. Comprehending the effects of concussions in this vulnerable population is crucial for developing more advanced preventive measures and management strategies. Methods: This systematic review followed PRISMA guidelines, searching Google Scholar, PubMed, and the Augsburg University Lindell Library databases. Relevant studies were identified using specific terms. Articles were included based on their relevance to youth or adolescent athletes and sports-related concussions. Studies …

The Efficacy Of Prp Injection Vs Corticosteroid Injection In The Management Of Common Tendinopathies: A Systematic Review, Eric Caloud

Theses and Graduate Projects

Background: Tendinopathy is one of the most prevalent musculoskeletal disorders in active patients, accounting for at least 7% of physician visits in the United States. In recent years, there has been an increasing body of evidence for the use of platelet-rich plasma (PRP) in the management of tendinopathies compared to corticosteroid injections (CSI) for patients refractory to conservative treatment.

Methods: This review was performed in accordance with PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) guidelines. The SPORTDiscus, PubMed, and Google Scholar databases were searched for randomized controlled studies published between 2010 and 2023. The keywords utilized in the …

Outcomes Of Unbalanced Versus Balanced Crystalloids In Sepsis: A Systematic Review, Gus R. Whittington

Theses and Graduate Projects

This systematic review attempts to examine current literature regarding the outcomes of septic patients who receive fluid resuscitation with balanced versus unbalanced crystalloids. Inclusion criteria were randomized controlled trials (RCTs), retrospective cohort studies, and clinical trials that presented either pediatric or adult patients who were admitted to the hospital in critically ill condition and received either 0.9% normal saline or any type of balanced crystalloid, with the presence of at least one out of three primary outcomes: comparative rates of mortality, renal dysfunction, or metabolic acidosis. Reports were excluded if they did not contain information regarding any primary outcome measure, …

A Systematic Review Of The Use Of Artificial Intelligence In Early And Accurate Diagnosis For Lung And Breast Cancer, Elena Luu

Theses and Graduate Projects

Background: This systematic review examines how the use of artificial intelligence compares to conventional methods in the early detection and accuracy of diagnosing lung and breast cancer. Methods: A comprehensive systematic review was conducted using Google Scholar, ScienceDirect, MDPI Journals, PubMed, JAMA Network, The Lancet Digital Health, Frontiers, Journal of Patient Safety, Thorax, NPJ Breast Cancer, BMC, and Nature Medicine. The inclusion criteria were artificial intelligence models or components of artificial intelligence detecting or classifying breast or lung cancer and articles published within the last five years. The study excluded articles that did not include either breast or lung cancer. …

Systematic Review Of The Effect Of Exercise On The Reduction Of Myocardial Remodeling Following A Myocardial Infarction Compared To A Sedentary Approach, Vladislav Gladis

Theses and Graduate Projects

Background: Cardiovascular disease is one of the leading causes of morbidity and mortality in humans worldwide. Ventricular remodeling following a myocardial infarction leads to detrimental outcomes due to cardiovascular death and ventricular dysfunction. Exercise training is an adjunct strategy to reduce the myocardial remodeling process.

Purpose: The paper seeks to answer the following PICO question: P: Population with post- infarct myocardial-remodeling I: Exercise following a myocardial infarction C: Sedentary approach O: Prevention of deleterious myocardial remodeling post-MI

Methods: A comprehensive literature review was done using PubMed and Science Direct with articles published in 2019 or after. The search was conducted …

From In-Person To Technology-Based Interpreting: Evolution And The Need For Flexible, Community-Based Standards, Muhiyadin (Mo) Aden

Theses and Graduate Projects

This study examines the significance of language access in healthcare and the transformative impact of technology-based interpreting modalities. Language barriers in healthcare can lead to misunderstandings and negative health outcomes for Limited English Proficiency (LEP) patients. The case study presents a Safety Net hospital, Hennepin Healthcare System (HHS), which successfully transitioned from in-person to a hybrid model utilizing Video Remote Interpreting (VRI) and Over-the-Phone Interpreting (OPI). Data analysis revealed improved productivity, reduced wait times, and surplus budget. The study challenges misconceptions around technology-based interpreting and recommends standardized protocols, interpreter documentation, and interhospital collaboration. By embracing technology and cultural understanding, healthcare …

A Systematic Review Of Sodium Intake And Its Impact On Cardiovascular Health: Insights From Costa Rican Studies, Benjamin M. Hillebrand

Theses and Graduate Projects

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is a leading cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide, with dietary sodium intake identified as a critical risk factor. This systematic review comprehensively examines the existing literature on sodium intake and its impact on cardiovascular health in Costa Rica. Fifteen relevant studies were analyzed, revealing concerning patterns of sodium consumption, particularly among youngsters and adolescents, with processed and fast foods being major contributors. High sodium intake was consistently associated with elevated blood pressure, a well-established CVD risk factor. The review also assessed sodium reduction initiatives and strategies, demonstrating the potential benefits of interventions in reducing cardiovascular risk. …

Growing Pains: A Needs-Based Assessment Of Aging In Place In The Twin Cities, Emma Burt

Theses and Graduate Projects

Background: As they age, older adults are often forced to change their living environments to accommodate their growing medical and personal needs. However, alternative living options are often less desired and present other challenges. Aging in place is the ability for individuals to choose where they live as they age, prioritizing the aging person’s choice and providing resources to support it. Purpose: The Twin Cities metropolitan area of Minnesota currently has a population of nearly 472,000 older individuals, and it is only continuing to rise. Although infrastructure exists that supports aging in place, not all older individuals get adequate services …

Emergency Department Thoracotomy As An Intervention For Penetrating Trauma To The Thoracic Cavity: A Systematic Review, Samuel Scherf

Theses and Graduate Projects

Emergent thoracic surgery involving the heart has been taking place for 126 years. Thoracic penetrating trauma is occurring more and more frequently in the US, and while 90% of patients with penetrating thoracic trauma die en route to hospital, the ones who arrive in extremis have better chances of survival now than ever due to an improving 60+ year practice of emergency department thoracotomy (EDT). This review has a primary objective of comparing the literature and history of EDT as a lifesaving intervention for patients with penetrating thoracic trauma and resulting mortality. It also aims to give context on EDT …

Home-Based Primary Care In Patients With Dementia: Impact On Cost, Medication Use, And Patient Satisfaction, Megan O'Leary

Theses and Graduate Projects

Background: Individuals living with dementia deserve affordable, accessible, and effective healthcare. These patients often face barriers that make it difficult to consistently access traditional in office primary care. Home-based primary care (HBPC) holds the opportunity to bridge the gap between individuals with dementia and preventative healthcare resources.

Purpose: Dementia rates are increasing as the population ages, and additional research is needed to determine the optimal treatment model for individuals with dementia. This literature review evaluates if patients with dementia receive improved care with HBPC vs in office primary care through examining cost, medication use and compliance, and patient satisfaction.

Methods: …

Lower Extremity Risk Assessment In Athletes Following A Traumatic Brain Injury, Carlos D. Villalpando

Theses and Graduate Projects

Background: According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Concussions are a major health disorder. Continued research regarding the impact of concussions on athletes has led to an increased risk for lower extremity injury across a variety of populations following head trauma. Guidelines from the CDC use a self-reported symptom and cognitive examination for return to play.

Purpose: Current recommended guidelines increase the risk of lower extremity injury due to failure of identifying neurological deficits that persist following a concussion. This literature review aims to identify if athletes diagnosed with a concussion are at an increased risk …

Investigating The Relationship Between Mental Health And Co- Morbidity Management During The Covid-19 Pandemic: A Literature Review, Alejandra Soto

Theses and Graduate Projects

Background: The COVID-19 pandemic caused many disruptions to millions of lives, especially with the enforcement of government shutdowns, isolations, and social distancing. These measures lead to increased anxiety and depression in the general population. With many high- risk patient populations having chronic comorbidities, accessing routine medical care and supplies became difficult during the pandemic.

Purpose: How has mental health affected the management of pre-existing comorbidities during the COVID-19 pandemic?

Methods: A comprehensive literature review was conducted using the research engine PubMed using the search terms: “pandemic”, “COVID-19”, “comorbidities”, “mental health”, “morbidity”, and “mortality”. Inclusion criteria were studies …

What Alternative Models Are Effective In Improving Health Outcomes In Children With Obesity In The United States?, Kelsey Reineke

Theses and Graduate Projects

Background: Obesity in children has increased at an alarming rate in the past three decades and has been associated with multiple comorbidities. This literature review has been focused on pediatric obesity management research utilizing Family-Based Therapy, community-centered interventions, behavioral modifications, and implementations for management within the Primary Care setting.

Purpose: There has not been an established standard of care for children suffering from obesity. This investigation was focused on the question; What alternative models are effective in improving health outcomes in children with obesity in the United States?

Methods: A comprehensive literature review was conducted using Pub …

Thermal Ablation As An Alternative To Standard Breast Conserving Surgery In The Treatment Of Invasive Ductal Carcinoma Of The Elderly, Dani Ducharme

Theses and Graduate Projects

An aging population means an inevitable increase in cancer diagnoses, and thus, a novel solution is needed to address this looming problem. Within the field of breast cancer, thermal ablation has emerged as a promising alternative to surgical excision. As a minimally invasive treatment, it significantly reduces the morbidity and mortality for geriatric patients, as well as healthcare costs overall.

The purpose of this analysis is to understand the utility of thermal ablation for the treatment of invasive ductal carcinoma. Specifically in the context of elderly patients, it is determined if this treatment modality is superior to traditional breast conserving …

Effective Pharmacological And Non-Pharmacological Treatments For Sleep Disturbances And Fatigue In Patients Who Have Experienced A Mild To Severe Traumatic Brain Injury, Mika Muras

Theses and Graduate Projects

Background: In the United States alone, an estimated 1.5 million people sustain a head injury every year.1 With improved recognition of traumatic brain injuries by healthcare providers, the number of patients diagnosed with a traumatic brain injury (TBI) is only increasing. Unfortunately, many patients who sustain a TBI, regardless of the severity, experience sleep disturbances, insomnia, fatigue, and daytime sleepiness.

Purpose: For the purposes of this systematic review, the focus will be primarily on the comparison of nonpharmacological treatments of sleep disturbances or fatigue secondary to a TBI. In addition, the focus will include recent studies on pharmacological …

Can Exercise Be An Alternative Treatment Option For Depression, Walker Rogers

Theses and Graduate Projects

As most people know, exercise has always been beneficial for our overall health. No matter which exercise program it is, they all provide some sort of benefit. A growing problem has been depression as more and more people are being diagnosed. Since normally, most people would be prescribed SSRIs, I wanted to find out if there were alternative options. I sought to determine if exercise can be an alternative treatment option for depression. A comprehensive literature review was conducted using the websites PubMed, NCBI, Science Direct, & Academic Search Premier and using the search terms depression, anxiety, exercise, yoga, resistance …

A Role For Cox Inhibition In The Prevention Of Progression Of Barrett’S Esophagus To Esophageal Adenocarcinoma, John Speakman

Theses and Graduate Projects

Background: Barrett’s esophagus is the most significant predictor of the development of esophageal adenocarcinoma. The current treatment recommendation is a proton pump inhibitor to control acid reflux, yet there remains a significant number of individuals who progress to cancer. More can be done to prevent this progression.

Purpose: To this end, this paper seeks to answer the following PICO question: P: Patients with Barrett’s esophagus not yet esophageal adenocarcinoma; I: Standard PPI treatment with the addition of Aspirin; C: Standard PPI treatment only; O: Prevention of progression of Barrett’s esophagus to esophageal adenocarcinoma.

Methods: A comprehensive literature …

Lowering Depression Symptoms In Adults: Exploring Nonpharmacologic/Non-Talk Therapy Based Approaches, Alyssa A. Raiolo

Theses and Graduate Projects

Background: Depression has a high prevalence, affecting more than 300 million people worldwide.1 Antidepressants and talk therapy are the current mainstays for treatment. Given the high prevalence of depression, there is value in the research regarding further treatment options.

Purpose: A literature review of studies exploring additional treatment modalities to lower depression symptoms in adults.

Methods: A comprehensive literature review was conducted using with the search terms <(adults) AND (depression, low mood, mental health) AND (pharmacologic, SSRI, SNRI) OR ( physical activity, fitness, exercise), OR (time outdoors, UV exposure, phototherapy) OR (non-talk therapy)>. Inclusion criteria were studies that were published from 2015 to the present. Exclusion criteria were studies not in English.

Conclusions: Aside from the currently recommended approaches to treating …

Stroke Prevention In Patients With Non-Valvular Atrial Fibrillation: The Watchman Device Versus Warfarin, Emma Delaney

Theses and Graduate Projects

Atrial fibrillation is a common heart arrhythmia that leads to an increased risk of stroke. Warfarin was the original anticoagulant that would be used as the treatment for atrial fibrillation. However, there are people who have contraindications to anticoagulation or are a high fall risk and shouldn’t be on Warfarin. The Watchman Device was originally designed in 2005 as a way to close the left atrial appendage where clots are usually present with atrial fibrillation. The watchman may be a superior way to help reduce the risk of stroke compared to the traditional use of Warfarin. Purpose: Literature review …

Sound And Silence For Patients With Dementia, Jess Porteous

Theses and Graduate Projects

Dementia, a condition that causes cognitive and physical impairments in the aging population, is becoming a global health issue as life expectancy continues to rise. Ineffective and inhumane interventions, such as physical and chemical restraints, are often used in acute hospitalizations due to safety concerns stemming from behavioral and psychological symptoms of dementia. Nurses often feel overwhelmed by the complex needs of patients with dementia and may suffer from moral injury while trying to care for them with limited interventions. Fortunately, integrative therapies such as mindfulness meditation, energy therapies, and sound healing, show promising results for patients with dementia. Resonant …

Impact Of Provider Cultural Competency On Latino/Hispanic Patients During End-Of-Life And Hospice Care, Nicholle Nacionales

Theses and Graduate Projects

Background: Cultural competency in healthcare means delivering high quality care to patients with diverse beliefs, attitudes, values, and behaviors. Latinos/Hispanics are one of the fastest growing ethnic group and with an aging population, there is an increased need for providers to deliver culturally sensitive end-of-life and hospice care. Latino/Hispanic patients face many disparities that affect their quality of care which cultural competency aims to address. Purpose: The purpose of this literature review is to identify factors that affect Latino/Hispanic patient’s end-of-life and hospice care and how cultural competency of providers can influence management of their pain and quality of …

Comparing Efficacy Of Denosumab To Bisphosphonates In Fragility Fractures, Ronald Toledo Cardoso

Theses and Graduate Projects

Background: Osteoporosis is a disease of the bones with decreased bone mineral density and bone mass, leading to poor bone quality/structure, increasing the risk of fragility fractures. Pharmacological treatment is recommended to decrease risk of fractures. Current first line treatment is with bisphosphonates; however, alternative treatment includes denosumab. Both bisphosphonates and denosumab are antiresorptive drugs but differ in mechanism of action. Bisphosphonates remain as first line treatment.

Purpose: The purpose of this literature review is aimed at the PICO question in adults with osteoporosis, what is the efficacy of denosumab compared to bisphosphonates in decreasing the risk of …

Immunotherapy Versus Chemotherapy: Which Treatment Offers Better Survival To Adults With Advanced Melanoma?, Nadeline Abro

Theses and Graduate Projects

Background: Melanoma is the most serious type of skin cancer that can lead to metastasis. The main treatment for melanoma is surgical removal — a wide excision. Patients with advanced melanoma require further treatment such as chemotherapy or immunotherapy due to the concern of continuous spread.

Purpose: Literature review of studies to examine if patients with advanced melanoma, treated with immunotherapy, enjoy better overall survival rates than patients treated with chemotherapy?

Methods: A comprehensive literature review was conducted using using the search terms <(advanced melanoma) AND (immunotherapy)) AND (chemotherapy)) AND (skin cancer)>. Inclusion criteria were studies that were related to immunotherapy and chemotherapy among advanced melanoma patients. Exclusion …

3d And Bio-Printing As An Efficient And Safe Alternative To Traditional Methods And Materials In Cardiovascular Diseases, Angela Asare-Ose

Theses and Graduate Projects

Background: Cardiovascular diseases are the leading cause of death globally. Therefore, there is the need for more resources to be poured into the research of more treatment options, diagnostic methods and preventative steps for patients. Though several technological advancements are being made in the world of medicine, it is not a bad idea to look at other avenues that have great potential to improve patient outcomes in cardiovascular diseases. 3D and bioprinting, though a relatively new technology in the world of medicine, is showing a promising future. It is already being applied in the field of orthopedic surgery and …

Does Probiotic Supplementation Improve Depression/Anxiety Outcome Measures?, Kathryn M. Decleene

Theses and Graduate Projects

Background: Depression and anxiety continue to be a healthcare burden worldwide. Current depression and anxiety treatments include medications and psychotherapy; however, for many patients this is not enough. Literature has recently come out detailing the gut-brain axis and its potential impact on mental health.

Purpose: This literature review sought to answer the question if probiotics could play a role in the treatment of depression and anxiety. Specifically, does supplementation with a probiotic improve clinical outcome measures of depression, anxiety, or both? Methods: A comprehensive literature review was conducted using PubMed and Google Scholar using the search terms probiotics, …

Socioeconomic Determinants Of Antibiotic Resistance, Kausar Jama

Theses and Graduate Projects

Background: Antibiotics were first developed to treat wounded soldiers and cases of pneumonia in World War II. By the 1940s, antibiotics became widely used to treat several infectious processes. It was not long after antibiotics were being used frequently by clinicians that resistant strains began to emerge. Today, antibiotic resistance is a growing global health concern seen in many parts of the world. There are many factors that contribute to the prevalence of antibiotic resistance.

Purpose: This paper aims to demonstrate how socioeconomic factors play a role in the development and spread of antibiotic resistance. The literature review …

Dual Antiplatelet Therapy With Ticagrelor Vs Clopidogrel In Patients With Acute Coronary Syndrome, Binh Vu

Theses and Graduate Projects

Background: Dual antiplatelet therapy (DAPT) is an effective secondary prevention and an essential component of treatment after patients suffering from acute coronary syndrome (ACS). Recently, clinicians rapidly switched to DAPT with ticagrelor as the preferred treatment option after it was introduced in 2011. Compared to clopidogrel, ticagrelor is not a prodrug and does not require metabolic activation to inhibit the platelet P2Y12 receptor. It is the first reversible oral P2Y12 receptor antagonist; and its effect on platelet inhibition is more pronounced compared to clopidogrel.

Purpose: The purpose of this comprehensive review was to evaluate the efficacy and safety …

A Review Of Monoclonal Antibody Regimens In Small Cell Lung Cancer Compared To Chemotherapy Standard Of Care, Rachael St. Clair

Theses and Graduate Projects

Background: Small cell lung cancer (SCLC) is an aggressive neuroendocrine tumor closely linked to tobacco use. Chemotherapy with platinum-etoposide is the current standard of care, with positive initial response rates and subsequently high rates of recurrence and death. Monoclonal antibodies are a therapeutic drug class attempting to block suppression of T cell activation, enabling a stronger immune response.

Purpose: The current predicament in SCLC treatment is determining if monoclonal antibodies have any effect on overall survival. Chemotherapy briefly suppresses SCLC, but given its rapid progression and recurrence, it is necessary to investigate alternative treatments. The following literature review …

Intermittent Fasting And Reduction Of Cardiovascular Disease Risk, Ethan Dekam

Theses and Graduate Projects

Background: Cardiovascular disease remains one of the leading causes of death worldwide. Intermittent fasting is a unique intervention that is beginning to be studied more extensively for weight loss, positive alterations in serum lipid profile, and improvement of insulin resistance which are all modifiable risk factors for the development of cardiovascular disease.

Purpose: The research question at the center of this literature review is: does the addition of intermittent fasting reduce the risk of developing cardiovascular disease? The reduction of cardiovascular disease was studied through alterations in weight, cholesterol, and diabetic labs.

Methods: A comprehensive literature review …