Medicine and Health Sciences Commons^™

Comparative Investigation Of Bacterial Adhesion On Medical Device Thermoplastics, Dev V. Mehta

Honors Theses

This project will focus on determining if differences in bacterial cell wall composition influences adhesiveness to thermoplastic materials used to construct patient orthotic splints. Bacteria with decreased adhesion are unable to remain bonded to orthotic splints, increasing its ability to transfer to a patient’s wound, leading to an infection. Antibiotic resistant bacteria used in this investigation included gram-positive cocci vancomycin-resistant (VRE) Enterococcus faecalis, methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), and gram-negative rods extended-spectrum beta-lactamase (ESBL) Escherichia coli and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Each test bacterium is a major pathogen causing healthcare-associated infections (HAIs). Saline, artificial perspiration, and ascites fluids were used to determine the …

Determinants Of Hypertension Awareness And Control In Kenya: A Secondary Analysis Of National Survey Data, Alexander K. Davis

Honors Theses

In low- and middle-income countries (LMICs), cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) are prevalent and pose a major concern as the current healthcare systems are oriented primarily towards communicable diseases. The largest contributor to CVDs, hypertension, is a significant issue in Kenya, a model LMIC. Based on previous studies in this lab, high rates of hypertension are present in the region of Kasigau, Kenya. Kasigau is a small region within Taita-Taveta County, Kenya. Traditional risk factors are not necessarily predictive of hypertension in all regions of Kenya. This study aims to address the lack of tested risk factors for hypertension in Kenya and …

Development Of Low-Cost Triaxial Force Sensor For Measurement Of Human-Exoskeleton Interaction Forces, Hamdan Khan Sarvathullah

All Theses

Contemporary research suggests that shear force is a major contributor to discomfort and pressure injury. However, the variation of shear forces during human-exoskeleton interaction dynamics is a highly unexplored field. The high cost of commercial triaxial force sensors may be a major factor in the notable lack of research in this field. Therefore, in this paper, we present a low-cost, 3D-printed triaxial force sensor designed specifically to measure the triaxial interaction forces between an exoskeleton and its user. The triaxial force sensor uses Carbon-Black/Silicone Rubber (CB/SR) strings to measure shear forces, whereas the normal force is measured with a Force …

Developing A Decision-Making Tool For Breast-Feeding Mothers Whose Babies Have A Cow's Milk Protein Allergy, Rachel M. Griffith

Human Nutrition and Hospitality Management Undergraduate Honors Theses

Cow’s milk protein allergy (CMPA) is one of the most common food allergies in infancy, affecting an estimated 2–3% of infants, including those who are breastfed. Many symptoms of CMPA overlap with gastrointestinal disorders and lactose intolerance, leading to frequent misdiagnosis and unnecessary maternal dietary restriction. Breastfeeding mothers who eliminate dairy to manage suspected CMPA often face nutritional deficiencies, emotional strain, and financial burden, while infants risk poor growth if symptoms are not properly addressed. Breastfeeding is viewed as the optimal source of nutrition for infants providing many cognitive benefits and positive maternal effects like decreased stress and risks of …

The Proximal Effects Of Blood Flow Restriction On The Infraspinatus Muscle Cross-Sectional Area And External Rotation Strength, Adam James Zavalney, Noah Matthew Gaffy, Tyler Grensteiner

Physical Therapy Scholarly Projects

Purpose/Hypothesis: Blood flow restriction (BFR) is a method of training that utilizes a tourniquet style cuff to limit the amount of blood flow to a working muscle during exercise. This method of training allows an individual to train at lower intensities while still gaining similar results to more traditional types of training. It has been shown in research that low intensity BFR has several benefits to structures distal to the level of the tourniquet, but minimal research has been conducted to investigate the benefits to proximal structures. This study is aimed at examining the proximal effects of BFR training on …

The Effects Of Sugammadex Vs. Neostigmine On Intraoperative Heart Rate In Pediatric Patients Under Two Years: A Scoping Review, Saumel Abston, Jackson Cobb, Elle Dean, Tanner Dillard, Pauline Dinh, Dwayne Accardo Dnp, Crna, Faana, Margaret Harvey Phd, Aprn, Acnp-Bc, Chfn, Fhrs

Doctor of Nursing Practice Projects

Purpose/Background

Neuromuscular blockade (NMB) reversal is a critical component of anesthesia care, particularly in infants under two years of age who have immature autonomic regulation and heightened vagal tone, predisposing them to bradycardia. Neostigmine, the traditional reversal agent, is associated with parasympathomimetic effects such as bradycardia, requiring anticholinergic co- administration. Sugammadex, a selective relaxant binding agent, offers rapid and predictable reversal of aminosteroidal neuromuscular blocking agents with less cholinergic side effects. Although the safety profile of sugammadex is well established in older pediatric populations, limited evidence exists regarding its cardiovascular effects in infants under two years of age.

Methods

A …

Improving Access And Early Identification Of Anxiety Disorders Through Annual Gad-7 Screening In High Schools: A Scoping Review, Joshua Richard Yumul Bsn, Rn, Cindy Thao Msn, Rn, Justin Doyle Borden Bsn, Rn, Rebecca Lizette Johnston Bsn, Rn, Bobby Bellflower Dnsc, Nnp-Bc, Faan, Faanp, Fnap

Doctor of Nursing Practice Projects

Background: Anxiety disorders affect nearly one-third of adolescents in the United States, yet many cases remain undiagnosed due to inconsistent screening and limited access to school-based mental health services. The Generalized Anxiety Disorder 7-item (GAD-7) questionnaire is a validated screening tool, but its routine use in high school settings is not well established.

Purpose: This scoping review aimed to synthesize current evidence on the use of the GAD-7 in high schools to support early identification of anxiety disorders and improve access to mental health care.

Methods: A comprehensive literature search was conducted using PsycINFO, ERIC, PubMed, CINAHL, and Google Scholar. …

Improving Outreach To Residents Through Semi-Structured Interviews, Emmett Booth, Mlis, Ahip, Gary Kaplan, Mlis, Ahip, Abby Adamczyk, Mlis, Ahip, John Caruso, Md

Academic Commons and Scott Memorial Library Staff Papers and Presentations

Objectives

Our academic medical center has a large number of residents and fellows across programs based out of multiple hospitals, five of which receive direct support from the libraries. Two librarians supporting the scholarly activities of residents and fellows were hired by the university in the last six years. As these positions evolve, we seek to understand if outreach is working, whether support is effective, and whether scholarly support needs are changing. Building on survey results from last year,1 the team is conducting interviews with residents and program directors to better understand their perceptions of library support and services.

Seeing Skin, Seeking Evidence: Lessons From A Dermatology Internship, Isabella Floyd

Health, Human Performance and Recreation Undergraduate Honors Theses

Background: Indoor tanning exposes individuals to artificial ultraviolet (UV) radiation through devices such as tanning beds and sunlamps, increasing the risk of skin damage and malignancy. Prior research suggests associations between indoor tanning and melanoma, basal cell carcinoma (BCC), and squamous cell carcinoma (SCC), with potential variation based on age of initiation and cumulative exposure.

Purpose: The purpose of this literature review was to examine the association between indoor tanning and skin cancer risk, with a focus on age at first exposure, frequency, and duration of tanning bed use across melanoma, BCC, and SCC outcomes.

Methodology: A structured literature review …

Navigating New Environments: Acculturative Stress And Substance Use Among International Vs Domestic Students From Latino/A Backgrounds, Madelyn R. Null

Psychological Science Undergraduate Honors Theses

College students can experience a range of cultural and social pressures that could relate to their alcohol and cannabis use. Latino/a international students may face unique challenges as they adjust to campus environments in the United States (U.S.), yet little research has compared their substance use patterns to those of Latino/a domestic students. Therefore, the present study aims to examine whether: (a) Latino/a international and domestic students differ in their alcohol use, (b)they differ in their cannabis use, and (c) acculturative stress moderates the relationship between international student status and these substance use behaviors. Latino/a undergraduates (n=440; Mage=20.55; female=71%; international=21%) …

May 2026, Swosu Rural Health Center

RURAL ROCKS

Rural Rocks

Helping to build a better community by building each part of Rural Health Services

As we look ahead to an exciting summer, preparations are well underway for the transition into the new Jerry and Margaret Hodge Pharmacy & Rural Health Center. This state-of-the-art facility will serve as a hub for innovation, education, and expanded access to care across rural Oklahoma. Within the Jerry and Margaret Hodge Building will be the College of Pharmacy, the Rural Health Department, the Center for Health and Well being, as well as the Doctorate of Community Health Program. The Custer County Health …

A Culture Of Resilience: A Cross-Library Partnerships To Sustain Health Data Services, Emily Blumenthal, Sara Hoover, Lacey Johnson, Brie Mcdonald, Brittany Smith

Himmelfarb Library Faculty Posters and Presentations

Over the last decade there has been distinct growth in the area of library-based research data management (RDM) programs and services. Yet for many academic and health research institutions, 2025 has been a year of steep budget cuts, requiring institutions to devise creative ways to assess and sustain local data services. In this poster we explore how a “cultured collaboration” between the George Washington University health sciences library (Himmelfarb) and the main campus library (GW Libraries and Academic Innovation/LAI) is being utilized to expand service offerings and retain vital services despite fiscal challenges.

Reducing Childhood Dental Decay: Fluoride Education Campaign With The Monterey County Health Department, Shelby L. Minter

Capstone Projects and Master's Theses

Dental decay is a significant problem for youth across Salinas, contributing to preventable oral health disparities. The Monterey County Health Department Oral Health Program provides oral health education and prevention services across Monterey County. This project focused on improving parental knowledge and confidence about fluoride usage in areas where pediatric dental caries rates are high. Its purpose was to support the prevention of dental decay through the promotion of fluoride benefits. Two educational campaigns were conducted at elementary schools in Salinas; Monte Bella Elementary School and Alisal Community School. The expected outcomes were increased knowledge, confidence, and positive attitudes towards …

Cultivating Connection: A Culturally Responsive Mental Wellbeing Curriculum For Latine Youth In Santa Cruz County, Suzzy Landeros

Capstone Projects and Master's Theses

Latine adolescents experience high rates of stress, depression, and stigma surrounding mental health, in part due to limited access to culturally responsive support and safe spaces for connection. The purpose of this internship project was to develop and implement a trauma-informed, culturally responsive, mental wellbeing curriculum to address barriers related to stigma, limited culturally responsive support, and disconnection, while supporting emotional awareness, connection, and use of grounding strategies among youth. The project was implemented through United Way Santa Cruz County in partnership with Watsonville High School and Soquel High School and served high school-aged youth. Development of the curriculum included …

Digital Outreach For Environmental Equity: Bridging The Nature Gap In Castroville, California Through Social Media, Phoebe C. Deacon

Capstone Projects and Master's Theses

Too many low-income residents of Castroville are not spending enough time in nature, causing negative impacts on both physical and mental health. Ventana Wildlife Society provides programs including after-school programs, Single Day Adventures, and summer camps for youth and families in Monterey County, particularly those from underserved communities. This project focused on the Castroville program. Castroville is a low-income, agricultural, isolated pocket of Monterey County, one of the communities where Ventana allocates its resources. This project implemented an outreach and educational intervention through use of social media by updating the Instagram page for Ventana’s North County Outdoor Program and posting …

Intimate Partner Violence In The Queer Community, Kathleen A. Oslé

Capstone Projects and Master's Theses

Queer college students face unique barriers to receiving intimate partner violence (IPV) prevention services, of note the instability of emerging adult life. At question is whether or not targeted intervention services appropriately serve the queer community in this regard. A new digital media landscape for the romantic world creates potentially harmful life goals by glorifying unhealthy behaviors and ostracizing survivors, all for the sake of money. Previous research shows that early intervention and education provides a preventative factor in IPV. Data from an in-person intervention workshop is used to determine the feasibility of targeted intervention services, and provides means-tested results. …

The Prevalence Of Amenorrhea In Relation To Red-S Syndrome Among Various Sports In Collegiate Female Athletes, Ruby S. Holland, Marilou D. Shreve

The Eleanor Mann School of Nursing Undergraduate Honors Theses

Background: RED-S is a common risk factor for amenorrhea in female athletes. Athletes that compete in high-intensity sports or without adequate caloric intake, are at risk for low energy expenditure which may disrupt hormonal balance. As development of RED-S is a well-established risk factor for amenorrhea, early detection and correction is crucial to prevent long term health consequences.

Purpose: The purpose of this research is to explore if there is a correlation between RED-S score and amenorrhea in female athletes.

Methods: An online survey was distributed to approximately 220 female athletes at the University of Arkansas using Qualtrics. The 69-question …

Digital Orientalism: Examining Eastern Practices In The Wellness Industry, Celia Golden

Departmental Honors & Graduate Capstone Projects

As popularity rises for global and domestic wellness retreats as tourist destinations, their predominantly Western audience invites an American offshoot of Orientalism that commodifies Asian names and practices into “mindfulness.” This paper examines the guest guide of the Miraval Berkshires wellness facility and its treatment of Eastern practices. Findings revealed 55.6% of the specialists at the Miraval Berkshires employ Eastern techniques, and 74.14% of those offerings are restricted to paid and private sessions to create exclusivity. The word “ancient” is disproportionately leveled against Eastern practices in the guest guide to further cement them as relics of the past. Alongside minimalist …

Association Between Cholinesterase Inhibitor-Overactive Bladder Antimuscarinic Prescribing Cascade And Risk Of Delirium And Falls Among Individuals Living With Dementia, Sarah Beth Tucker, Bryan L. Love Pharm D., Chijoke M. Okeke, Erin D. Zwick, Chengwen Teng Pharm.D., Ph.D., Jingkai Wei, Ibraheem M. Karaye, Saud Alsahali, Krithika Rajagopalan, Ismaeel Yunusa Ph.D.

Faculty Publications

Background

Prescribing cascades occur when cholinesterase inhibitor (ChEI)-induced urinary incontinence is misinterpreted as a new condition, leading to overactive bladder (OAB) antimuscarinic initiation. We evaluated whether the ChEI-OAB antimuscarinic prescribing cascade was associated with delirium or falls compared with mirabegron in older adults living with dementia.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective cohort study using the Anlitiks All-Payor Claims database (2015–2020). Participants were adults aged ≥ 65 years with dementia newly prescribed a ChEI with no prior ChEI or OAB therapy (180 days). A 60-day window identified OAB treatment initiation after ChEI therapy. Exposures were OAB antimuscarinics or mirabegron. Outcomes were …

Spontaneous Coronary Artery Dissection In Postpartum: A Hidden Cause Of Maternal Myocardial Infarction, Riya Chhabra, Brian Renard

Conference Presentation Abstracts

Spontaneous coronary artery dissection (SCAD) is a tear in the coronary artery lining which decreases blood flow to the heart. SCAD is the leading cause of myocardial infarction in young to middle aged women, especially during and after pregnancy. While SCAD is often managed conservatively, patients are prone to complications like cardiomyopathy. This case underscores the importance of considering SCAD as a differential for postpartum women with chest pain. Furthermore, this case highlights the diagnosis and management of an atypical stress-induced cardiomyopathy with global hypokinesis following postpartum SCAD. A 37-year-old female postpartum for five weeks presented to our hospital with …

The Effect Of Two Desensitizing Agents In Treatment Of Dentin Hypersensitivity In Cervical Lesions (A Randomized Clinical Trial), Hend Sayed Ahmed, Mohamed Fouad Haridy, Hoda Fouda, Sara Katarya, Youssef M. Haridy

Dentistry

No abstract provided.

Immune Checkpoint Inhibitor-Associated Perioptic Neuritis, Neud Kiros, Alina Sinha, Anant Krishnan

Conference Presentation Abstracts

Clinical History A 47-year-old male with history of stage IV gastric cancer on nivolumab presented with blurry vision worse at close distances. Binocular horizontal diplopia was found on exam. Fundus exam demonstrated 4+ disc edema and hemorrhage bilaterally. Recent head MRI was negative for leptomeningeal enhancement. MR venogram and MRI orbits with contrast were ordered as well as lumbar puncture. The patient’s next dose of immunotherapy was held. Opening pressure was normal, and MRV showed no evidence of dural sinus thrombosis. MRI of the orbits was positive for perioptic neuritis bilaterally, and the patient was started on a steroid taper …

The Scoop On Feeding Therapy: Where Occupational Therapy Fits In, Katherine G. Epperson

Occupational Therapy Doctorate Capstone Posters

This capstone project was completed at Horn and Associates in Rehabilitation in Lexington, Ky. The primary ACOTE areas of focus included education, advocacy, and clinical practice skills. The goals of this project were to identify and fill gaps in knowledge related to the role of occupational therapy in feeding therapy in the pediatric population, support interdisciplinary collaboration, and create educational handouts to advocate and highlight the importance of occupational therapy in the realm of feeding.

A needs assessment was completed prior to completion of this capstone project in order to identify a need. For this needs assessment, I completed a …

Professional Advocacy: Designing And Implementing Resources For The Kota Website, Jaden Johnson

Occupational Therapy Doctorate Capstone Posters

This doctoral capstone project and Applied Leadership Experience (ALE) focused on advocacy, leadership, and virtual program development within the Kentucky Occupational Therapy Association (KOTA). The project addressed a gap, bridging conversations surrounding advocacy to active engagement in professional advocacy through an 'Advocacy' webpage for the KOTA website. The goal of this capstone project is to make advocacy resources more accessible and increase participation in professional organizations for the benefit and unification of occupational therapy and occupational therapy assistant students and practitioners.

Virginia Stoffel's Presidential Address, Engagement, Exploration, and Empowerment (2015), served as the primary framework guiding this project. The framework …

Expanding Access To Noninvasive Spinal Neuromodulation For Pediatric Spinal Cord Injury Rehabilitation: A Comparative Device Study, Alice E C Palmer

College of Arts & Sciences Senior Theses

Paralysis following spinal cord injury (SCI) has traditionally been considered permanent due to the disruption of supraspinal input to spinal motor circuits. However, growing evidence suggests that spinal networks below the level of injury retain intrinsic motor-generating capabilities through central pattern generators. Transcutaneous spinal cord stimulation (scTS) is a noninvasive neuromodulation technique that delivers electrical stimulation through the skin to reactivate these spinal networks. Although prior studies demonstrate that scTS delivered through research-grade devices is safe and effective in adults and children with chronic SCI, clinical translation remains limited by lack of FDA-approved systems, high costs, and restricted access to …

Tiny Tusks Internship: Factors That Affect Breastfeeding In Public, Caroline E. Bene

The Eleanor Mann School of Nursing Undergraduate Honors Theses

The purpose of this review was to explore factors that impact women’s decision to breastfeed in public or not. The PICOT question used was: ‘What Factors Affect Women’s Decision to Breastfeed in Public or Not?’ Two platforms, EBSCOhost and The National Library of Medicine, were used to identify 15 peer-reviewed journal articles on factors affecting women’s decision to breastfeed in public or not. The factors that impact a women’s decision on whether it is acceptable to breastfeed in public stems from the media stigmatizing that breastfeeding should be a private action. Research done yielded results of both positive and negative …

Exploring Perceived Structural Barriers And Access Related To Menstruation And Menstruation Education, Rylie Sisengrath

The Eleanor Mann School of Nursing Undergraduate Honors Theses

Menstrual health is an important component of women’s health. However, many adolescents in the United States report feeling unprepared for menarche due to limited menstruation education. Menstruation education is limited, exclusively taught in schools with sex education courses, limiting the scope of female developmental education. Period poverty, limited access to menstrual education and hygiene products, continues to affect a large group of women. This study aimed to understand adolescents’ experiences with menstrual education, identify gaps in menstruation education, and explore structural and policy barriers affecting access to menstrual health resources. Using a cross-sectional survey with Likert-scale and open-response questions, quantitative …

Adaptive Leggings For Crohn’S/Colitis/Isbs Patients With A Colostomy Bag, Sarah E. Liebbe

Apparel Merchandising and Product Development Undergraduate Honors Theses

As the prevalence of inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD), including Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis, continues to rise in the United States, an increasing number of individuals undergo colostomy or ileostomy procedures requiring the use of an ostomy bag (Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation, 2023). While these medical devices are essential for maintaining health and quality of life, they often introduce challenges related to clothing, including discomfort, lack of support, limited concealment, and restricted self-expression (Hubbard et al., 2019). Despite growing attention to inclusive design within the fashion industry, adaptive apparel for ostomy patients remains limited in availability, style, and affordability, leaving …

Cholesterol Effect On The P-Glycoprotein Conformational Dynamics, Zane Bunn

Biological Sciences Undergraduate Honors Theses

P-Glycoprotein (Pgp) is a human efflux pump that belongs to the ABC transporter family. This protein consists of two transmembrane domains (TMD) that convert between inward to outward facing configurations to remove a wide variety of structurally different compounds from the intracellular membrane into the extracellular space using ATP.  This non-specific efflux of compounds has brought Pgp to scientific light as having a major role in multi-drug resistance of many diseases, and researchers are focused on developing a deeper understanding of the protein. To further this understanding, this study analyzed how the structure of Pgp is affected by a 10% …

Observation And Reflection Of Neighborhood And Community 2026: Quality Housing, Education And Healthy Environment In 48219 Reflection, Dina Charara, Edward Hill, Michelle El-Sayah, Zaid Jani, Joseph Gjonaj, Zaynab Lughmani, Maxwell Braker, Melanie Cohn

Patient Education Projects

No abstract provided.