Medicine and Health Sciences Commons^™

Spine Kinematics And Muscle Activities In Non-Specific Chronic Low Back Pain Subgroups In Sitting, Mansoor Ahmed Alameri

Loma Linda University Electronic Theses, Dissertations & Projects

Background: Although, non-specific chronic low back pain (NSCLBP) has been associated with motor control impairments, little is known about the possible driving mechanisms of pain development overtime during prolonged sitting period. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to examine the differences in lumbosacral postures and muscle activities in adults with and without NSCLBP, and their role on pain development during a 1-hour of prolonged sitting task.

Methods: Twenty NSCLBP subjects with motor control impairment (MCI) [10 classified as having flexion pattern (FP) disorder, and 10 with active extension pattern (AEP) disorder], and 10 healthy controls participated in …

Effect Of Pediatric Ear Infections On Postural Stability, Ohud A. Sabir

Loma Linda University Electronic Theses, Dissertations & Projects

Ear infections in children often cause abnormal postural stability during the acute phase of the ear infection. However, the long-term effects of recurrent ear infections on postural stability have not been investigated. Postural stability is the foundation of many motor skills in early child development. Therefore, it is important to evaluate and treat postural instability problems in early childhood. The purpose of this study was to examine the effect of multiple ear infections on pediatric postural stability and visual over-reliance and to determine if computerized and non-computerized measurement tools could identify lasting postural instability in children with multiple ear infections …

Ratio Of Rme Appliance Expansion To Increase In Arch Perimeter Using Cbct Imaging, Evan Agnetta

Loma Linda University Electronic Theses, Dissertations & Projects

Objective: This study measured CBCT images to determine if a consistent ratio exists between the quantifiable number of millimeters a cemented rapid palatal expansion appliance is opened and the subsequent increase in the arch perimeter obtained due to lateral expansion of the arch.

Methods: The following measurements: arch perimeter, arch width at first molars, first bicuspids, appliance length, as well as arch depth; were taken from CBCT images of patients who had completed RME therapy. These were obtained both before and after maxillary palatal expansion therapy using a fixed rapid palatal expander. Correlations were calculated for each of …

Inflammation, Depression And Non-Adherence Correlates In Persons On Hemodialysis, Kathleen Fulmer

Loma Linda University Electronic Theses, Dissertations & Projects

The hemodialysis patient is at risk for a high inflammatory state as evidenced by the elevation of the pro-inflammatory cytokine, interleukin-6 which has been linked to lower serotonin levels and development of depression. The biological and psychological stress of living with End Stage Renal Disease on hemodialysis increases the risk for depression which is the leading psychological disorder affecting these patients which is also underdiagnosed and under-treated. The phenomenon of depression can manifest itself in the maladaptive behavior of non-adherence which has been associated with increased mortality, morbidity and decreased quality of life for the hemodialysis patient. The purpose of …

Examining The Need For Psychosocial Services In Pediatric Non-Accidental Trauma, Samantha Nicole O'Bannon

Loma Linda University Electronic Theses, Dissertations & Projects

Child abuse is a significant issue within our society. In 2014, there were a reported 702,208 cases of child abuse and neglect across the country, with nearly 120,000 suffering from physical abuse. Research has shown the adverse physical and psychological consequences of child maltreatment. Despite what we know about the benefits of early intervention for this population, the degree of implementation of psychosocial interventions, specifically in a hospital setting, remains unclear. In an initial study that utilized archival data from the Loma Linda University Children’s Hospital (LLUCH) Trauma Registry Database, researchers found that the majority of children admitted to the …

Biomechanics And Postural Control Characteristics In Low Back Pain Subgroups During Dynamic Task, Amjad Shallan

Loma Linda University Electronic Theses, Dissertations & Projects

Dynamic balance impairments are commonly observed in people with low back pain (LBP). People with LBP have reduced lumbopelvic stability and may exhibit spinal biomechanical and postural control changes during dynamic balance. A limited number of studies are available about the spinal kinematic and postural control changes during dynamic balance in people with nonspecific chronic low back pain (NSCLBP) subgroups. Therefore, the aim of this dissertation was to compare spinal kinematics and postural control between NSCLBP subgroups and healthy individuals during dynamic balance using a modified Star Excursion Balance Test (mSEBT). Eighteen NSCLBP subjects [9 active extension pattern (AEP), 9 …

In-Vitro Comparison Of Retention Among Contemporary And Conventional Post-And- Cores, Hatem Alqarni

Loma Linda University Electronic Theses, Dissertations & Projects

Purpose: Computer-aided design/computer-aided manufacturing (CAD/CAM) technology is gaining popularity in dentistry, and more recently, used to fabricate custom post-andcores (PC) for endodontically treated teeth. The purpose of this study was 1) to evaluate the overall retention of conventional cast gold post-and-cores compared to CAD/CAM fabricated printed, milled titanium post-and-core and milled zirconia post-and-cores based on load, time of dislodgement and 2) to evaluate the mode of failure of the post-and-cores.

Materials and Methods: A maxillary central incisor was selected. Root canal treatment was performed, and acrylic resin pattern was used to fabricate post-and-core. A total of 80 post-and-cores (20 …

Association Of Nurses’ Sanctification Of Work With Work-Related Outcomes And Patient Satisfaction, Hazel M. Ada

Loma Linda University Electronic Theses, Dissertations & Projects

Nurses working in hospitals face many intrinsic stressors, including widespread job dissatisfaction, burnout, and frustration. These challenges, in turn, may affect patient care. Nursing often attracts individuals who wish to serve others, and some may find the expression of spirituality on the job helpful in finding meaning, satisfaction, and value in their work (Kociszewski, 2004). Sanctification of work (SoW) is a promising facet of spirituality defined by researchers as an individual’s experience of their work as a manifestation of God or sacred qualities that affects their effectiveness and engagement on the job (Walker, Jones, Wuensch, Aziz, and Cope, 2008). In …

Measurements Of The Pharyngeal Airway Using Whole Head 3t Mri And Cbct, Victoria Geren

Loma Linda University Electronic Theses, Dissertations & Projects

Objective: This study compared pharyngeal airway measurements (volume, linear, area) made using whole head Cone-Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT) and 3T Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) methods.

Methods: Eleven subjects (mean age 15y11m) received whole head CBCT (NewTom5G, AFP Imaging, USA) and 3T MRI (Siemens Medical Solutions, DE). Each subject received both scans within a one-month period of time. CBCT images were made with an 18x16 inch field of view, exposure time of 5.4s, and resolution of 0.3x0.3x0.3mm. 3T MR images were captured as contiguous sagittal images of the whole head with a T1- weighted 3D imaging sequence (Magnetization Prepared …

Clinical Effects Of Oral Hygiene Instruction Via Texting In Orthodontic Patients, Jessica Liu

Loma Linda University Electronic Theses, Dissertations & Projects

Purpose: This randomized controlled study quantitatively investigated whether providing oral hygiene instruction (OHI), through texting images and videos, affected oral hygiene status in orthodontic patients.

Materials and Methods: Sixty patients between 13-21 years of age, with visible plaque and used a smart phone, were recruited from the Graduate Orthodontic Clinic at Loma Linda University. Once recruited (T1), an initial survey was completed, MBI and OPI were recorded, and OHI was given. Subjects were randomly distributed into either a control or experimental group. The experimental group received OHI texts weekly, whereas the control group did not. After 3 months …

Comparison Of Maxillary Sinus Dimensions And Volumes On Cbct And 3t Mr Images, Cara Hodgson

Loma Linda University Electronic Theses, Dissertations & Projects

Objective: This study compared the height, width, length, and volume of the maxillary sinus in Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) and Cone-Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT).

Methods: Eleven human subjects participated in the study (mean age of 14y7m). One CBCT scan and one MRI scan were performed on each patient. CBCT images were captured with an 18 x16 inch field of view that covered the whole head. Contiguous sagittal MR images of the whole head were produced using a 3.0T imaging system with a T1-weighted 3D imaging sequence and isotropic resolution of 1.0 x1.0 x1.0 mm. Images were imported as …

Accuracy Of Surface Area And Volume Measurements Of Teeth Determined From Cbct, Joseph Hourany

Loma Linda University Electronic Theses, Dissertations & Projects

Objective: This study compared surface area and volume measurements made from 3D scans of physical teeth and segmented teeth taken from Cone-Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT) scans of a cadaver. Methods: A cadaver specimen was imaged by CBCT and all the teeth were subsequently extracted and cleaned of any tissue. Of all the extracted teeth, sixteen single-rooted teeth were included in this study. The extracted teeth were scanned with a 3M True Definition 3rd Generation intraoral scanner (3M, ESPE) to generate a stereolithography (STL) file to serve as the control for this study and their surface area and volume measurements as …

Reintegration Experiences Of Post-Incarcerated Fathers In Southern California, Sheldon Smith

Loma Linda University Electronic Theses, Dissertations & Projects

The detention of fathers in penal institutions can challenge their involvement in the lives of their children and this experience can impact these relationships as well as the socio-emotional development of their children in the short and long term. Upon release, the reintegration experiences can be difficult, clumsy, and sometimes lost altogether. This present study explored the experiences of nineteen fathers as they sought to reconnect with their children after incarceration. Through the use of grounded theory and qualitative interviews, three major themes emerged from the data, which provided an explanation of participants’ reintegration experiences. These themes were participants’ ideology …

The Effect Of Dietary Nitrate And Anthocyanins On Anaerobic Exercise Performance, Yun Chieh Huang, Aurora Sanchez, Paul Tsai

Loma Linda University Research Reports

Background: Previously, beetroot and tart cherry supplementations have been investigated for their effects on exercise performance and recovery separately. Beetroot containing nitrate has been used to improve blood flow to enhance exercise tolerance. Tart cherry extract containing anthocyanins has been shown to lower inflammation and improve recovery time in exercise performance.

Objective: The purpose of this study was to investigate a possible synergistic effect of nitrate and anthocyanins on exercise performance in healthy individuals.

Design: This was a double-blind, randomized crossover study with a duration of twenty-nine days. Inclusion criteria included healthy individuals, able to exercise on …

Does Self-Evaluation And Education In Students Change Attitudes And Beliefs Towards Weight Stigma?, Henry A. Garcia

Loma Linda University Electronic Theses, Dissertations & Projects

The current state of global ensures physical therapists will encounter patients that are overweight/obese in all clinical settings, which makes them exceptionally positioned to promote lifestyle modifications to their patients. Unfortunately, weight stigma is highly prevalent among health care providers. Weight stigma has been shown to have adverse effects on patients. The purpose of this study is to measure weight bias in the doctor of physical therapy (DPT) students. Elicit change in obesity stigma in DPT students by way of self-evaluation while enrolled in a course Aspects of Health Promotion (AHP). Methods: Sixty students enrolled in AHP course participated in …

Effects Of Head Motion On Balance In Middle-Aged And Young Adults With Chronic Motion Sensitivity, Ammar E. Hafiz

Loma Linda University Electronic Theses, Dissertations & Projects

Chronic motion sensitivity (CMS) often leads to a variety of symptoms including postural instability. There is limited research describing the effects of active head motion on standing postural stability in adults with motion sensitivity. Previous research has described the negative effects of chronic motion sensitivity on postural stability during active head motion. The purpose of this study was to compare the effects of slow and fast head motions, in multiple planes, on postural stability in healthy middle-aged adults with and without CMS. Secondary objective was to compare the effects of head motion on postural stability between young and middle-aged adults, …

Social Empathy And Associated Factors Among Nurses: A Mixed Method Study, Gudrun Klim

Loma Linda University Electronic Theses, Dissertations & Projects

The aim of this study was to measure and describe social empathy among nurses and to explore how selected demographic, personal, and work-related factors were associated with social empathy. A cross-sectional, observational research design employing mixed methods (i.e., embedded triangulation with quantitative and qualitative components) was used. Registered Nurses employed at a large northwestern US healthcare system comprised the sample (N = 614 [17% response rate]). The sample was recruited via an email invitation that included a link to the study instruments. These instruments included demographic questions developed by the investigator and the following validated tools: Interpersonal and Social Empathy …

Relationship Between Balance And Physical Activity In Subjects With Non-Specific Chronic Low Back Pain, Muhsen B. Alsufiany

Loma Linda University Electronic Theses, Dissertations & Projects

Most research on sedentary lifestyle has focused on pain and disability outcomes, while neuromuscular outcomes (postural control and strength) have received less attention. The objective of the present study was to determine whether low level of physical activity is negatively associated with measures of lower body muscular strength and postural control in subjects with and without non-specific chronic low back pain (NSCLBP). Twenty-four subjects with NSCLBP (28.8±5.9 years) and 24 age, gender, and Body Mass Index (BMI) matched healthy controls participated in the study. Subjects were sub-classified into four subgroups based on their level of physical activity using the International …

How Korean Couples Construct Marital Relationships: A Qualitative Study, Young Joo Kang

Loma Linda University Electronic Theses, Dissertations & Projects

With increased economic and employment opportunities for women, South Korean couples are challenged by division of labor in the family. This qualitative study examined how marital partners maintain their relationships in light of rapid social change. The study employed social constructionism and feminist theory as conceptual frameworks. Through social constructionism, I sought to understand the interactive roles marital partners perform as they attempt to balance family needs and responsibilities within the context of evolving gender ideas. Feminist theory provided an additional lens to further understand the nuances of partners’ beliefs and expectations about their own gender and that of their …

Efficacy Of The Dorsal Application Of Kinesio Tape For Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, Donnamarie Carter Krause

Loma Linda University Electronic Theses, Dissertations & Projects

Upper extremity musculoskeletal disorders (MSD), such as Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS) affect worldwide working populations. CTS symptoms are problematic especially when signs and symptoms are not substantial enough to require surgical intervention. Conservative treatments have mixed effectiveness, and there is yet to be a best option for chronic low-grade CTS. Kinesio tape is an emerging modality, the dorsal application may provide biomechanical support while allowing functional movement. Thus, the objective of this study was to determine if the dorsal application of Kinesio tape applied to the wrist extensors for individuals with carpal tunnel syndrome makes a difference in occupational performance …

Connected Families: Programs For Families Of Infants/Toddlers At Risk For Autism, Toni Carol Durnal Dunning

Loma Linda University Electronic Theses, Dissertations & Projects

Although children with secure attachment are known to have better outcomes, fostering secure attachment in an infant/toddler at risk for autism spectrum disorder is challenging. Some of the challenges stem from bi-directional, negative and ambiguous interaction sequences between the child and caregiver that cause emotional dysregulation and undermine caregiver confidence setting the stage for perpetual miscuing and misattunement— a pattern that can impact the entire family system leaving the child, caregiver, and family vulnerable to stress, anxiety, depression, and isolation.

Although the etiology of autism is a matter of intensive and ongoing research spanning many disciplines, there is converging agreement …

Accuracy Of Intraoral Scanners With Different Total Occlusal Convergence Angles: An In-Vitro Study, Brittany M. Pang

Loma Linda University Electronic Theses, Dissertations & Projects

Digital intraoral imaging has become more utilized in contemporary dental practice. This is performed using an intraoral scanner and it can be used as an alternative to making conventional impressions when indicated. This technology has many advantages, such as decreasing the number of appointments by eliminating traditional techniques, along with a reduction of laboratory time and improved patient comfort. The accuracy of intraoral scanners is currently being assessed in various aspects. To our knowledge, no study has yet addressed the accuracy of intraoral scanners in regards to total occlusal convergence (TOC) of complete coverage of anterior and posterior preparations in …

Complications Associated With Mandibular Fixed Complete Arch Prostheses Based On Implant Distribution, Shivani Karre

Loma Linda University Electronic Theses, Dissertations & Projects

Purpose: The objective of this study is to compare incidence and type of complications associated with mandibular implant supported fixed complete arch prostheses based on implant distribution. Material and Methods: Patient Selection: The retrospective study included data collected from axiUm CE Version 6.05.01.2007 from year July 2007 to July 2018 for all patients treated with mandibular implant supported fixed complete arch prostheses (MISFCPs) at Loma Linda University School of Dentistry (LLUSD). One hundred and twenty seven patient’s charts were reviewed to document implant distribution and incidences of complications associated with each implant distribution groups on MISFCPs. Complications like screw …

Comparison Of Antimicrobial Agents Ozonated Olive Oil And Chlorhexidine Gluconate - An In Vitro Study, Amelia David

Loma Linda University Electronic Theses, Dissertations & Projects

Aim: This study was aimed to compare the antibacterial effect of a commercially available OzOO with CHX 0.12% oral rinse solution against periodontal pathogens F. alocis, Aa, S. mitis, and S. mutans using a disk diffusion method.

Materials and Methods:

The antimicrobial agents OzOO and 0.12% CHX were impregnated onto sterile discs and placed onto bacterial cultures of F.alocis, Aa, S.mutans, and S.mitis to evaluate their antimicrobial activity by the disk diffusion susceptibility method. The bacterial growth inhibition zone surrounding each disc was measured in millimeters of diameter with calipers to assess the antimicrobial activity of each agent. …

The Effect Of Food And Sleep Tracking On Quality Of Life, Souad Aboufadel, Sara Piecukonis

Loma Linda University Research Reports

Abstract Background: Various factors such as sleep quality and amount and food intake can have an impact on quality of life in terms of the amount of stress or fatigue that an individual experiences as an outcome. Food tracking has been commonly used as a tool for weight loss. Yet, current research has been looking at other possible advantages related to food tracking.

Objective: To examine the effects of food and sleep tracking on health-related quality of life with respects to sleep quality and quantity, stress, and fatigue, in adults aged 18 years or older.

Methods: Participants …

Awareness Of The Recent Change In The Nutrition Label, Olivia Meza, Michael Moh, Molly Camarena

Loma Linda University Research Reports

Background: The Nutrition Facts panel as it is recognized today was developed by Dr. David Kessler in 1994 during his tenure as the commissioner of the FDA. A new label was announced on May 20, 2016 to increase awareness about food content, clarify the amount of food in a package, and to present information that has been recently and scientifically updated. Several studies have researched the food label and the association between knowledge and dietary intake. However, these studies examined the 1994 version of the label and results fell short of desired outcomes. Since the announcement of the new …

The Effects Of Mindful Eating Education On Increasing Satiety Signals, Audrey Bamford, Evelyn Gonzalez, Sneha Lalla

Loma Linda University Research Reports

Background: Mindful eating is a practice that incorporates focusing on thoughts, emotions and sensations within the body when consuming food. Satiety is defined as a state of fullness where there is no longer an intake of food. Mindful eating techniques could help college students identify their hunger and satiety signals and respond to those cues over environmental or psychosocial cues that could lead to over-eating. Giving mindful eating education has the possibility to help people recognize their satiety signals and stop eating sooner.

Objective: To examine the effects of mindful eating education on increasing satiety signals.

Design: …

The Effects Of 8 Oz Of Fresh Vs. Commercial Orange Juice On Blood Pressure In Normotensive Males Aged 18-59, Cheng Yi Wong, Izac Dinio

Loma Linda University Research Reports

Background: Oranges have been known to possess numerous health benefits for humans as they are rich in vitamin C, A, and potassium. Citrus fruits contain a substance known as “citrus sinensis juice” which boosts immune function and aids in wound healing. Sinensis juice can also reduce blood pressure, inflammation, and risk of cardiovascular disease.

Objective: To determine the effects of drinking eight ounces of fresh vs. commercial orange juice on blood pressure in healthy normotensive males ages 18-59 years.

Design: Randomized, single-blinded, crossover study.

Participants: Healthy males aged 18-59 years, willing to keep the same lifestyle, …

General Nutrition Knowledge Among High School Students, Annique Cornejo

Loma Linda University Research Reports

Background: Obesity now affects 1-in-5 children and adolescents in the United States. As of 2018, the prevalence of obesity has reached 18.5% and affects about 13.7 million children. Obese children are at increased risk for high blood pressure and high cholesterol that can lead to cardiovascular disease, impaired glucose tolerance, insulin resistance, and type 2 diabetes. Since health habits are commonly established during the formative years, it is imperative that good food choices and basic knowledge about nutrition be taught at an early age. This study examined whether students had received sufficient teaching about nutrition, particularly as it relates …

How Do The Exercise Practices Of Registered Dietitian Nutritionists Affect Their Exercise Recommendations To Their Patients/Clients?, Ledy Ann Cordero, Kristen Muzio, Ian Karundeng

Loma Linda University Research Reports

Background: Registered Dietitian Nutritionists (RDNs) are experts in food and nutrition serving to advance the profession and nation's health. As the population becomes increasingly aware of how nutrition and exercise can positively impact one's quality of life and prevent many chronic diseases, they may seek guidance from nutrition and exercise professionals for assistance in developing their personal health strategies.

Objective: To determine the exercise practices of RDNs across the United States and how their perceptions and habits of their exercise practices may affect their exercise recommendations to their patients and/or clients.

Design: This mixed methods study gathered …