Public Health Commons^™

Virtual Multi-Institutional Tumor Board: A Strategy For Personalized Diagnoses And Management Of Rare Cns Tumors, James L Rogers, Thomas Wall, Alvina A Acquaye-Mallory, Lisa Boris, Yeonju Kim, Kenneth Aldape, Martha M Quezado, John A Butman, James G Smirniotopoulos, Huma Chaudhry, Christina I Tsien, Prashant Chittiboina, Kareem Zaghloul, Orwa Aboud, Nicholas G Avgeropoulos, Eric C Burton, David M Cachia, Karan S Dixit, Jan Drappatz, Erin M Dunbar, Peter Forsyth, Edina Komlodi-Pasztor, Jacob Mandel, Byram H Ozer, Eudocia Q Lee, Surabhi Ranjan, Rimas V Lukas, Margarita Raygada, Michael E Salacz, Matthew A Smith-Cohn, James Snyder, Ariane Soldatos, Brett J Theeler, Brigitte C Widemann, Kevin A Camphausen, John D Heiss, Terri S Armstrong, Mark R Gilbert, Marta Penas-Prado

Faculty, Staff and Students Publications

PURPOSE: Multidisciplinary tumor boards (MTBs) integrate clinical, molecular, and radiological information and facilitate coordination of neuro-oncology care. During the COVID-19 pandemic, our MTB transitioned to a virtual and multi-institutional format. We hypothesized that this expansion would allow expert review of challenging neuro-oncology cases and contribute to the care of patients with limited access to specialized centers.

METHODS: We retrospectively reviewed records from virtual MTBs held between 04/2020-03/2021. Data collected included measures of potential clinical impact, including referrals to observational or therapeutic studies, referrals for specialized neuropathology analysis, and whether molecular findings led to a change in diagnosis and/or guided management …

Dissection, Histological Processing, And Gene Expression Analysis Of Murine Supraclavicular Brown Adipose Tissuejove: Peer Reviewed Scientific Video Journal Article Protocols, Mark G Waterstraat, Ziyi Wang, Mari Kogiso, Rommel Caballero-Juarez, Miao-Hsueh Chen

Faculty, Staff and Students Publications

Brown adipose tissue (BAT)-mediated thermogenesis plays an important role in the regulation of metabolism, and its morphology and function can be greatly impacted by environmental stimuli in mice and humans. Currently, murine interscapular BAT (iBAT), which is located between two scapulae in the upper dorsal flank of mice, is the main BAT depot used by research laboratories to study BAT function. Recently, a few previously unknown BAT depots were identified in mice, including one analogous to human supraclavicular brown adipose tissue. Unlike iBAT, murine supraclavicular brown adipose tissue (scBAT) is situated in the intermediate layer of the neck and thus …

Use Of A Primary Care Dataset To Describe ‘The Real Picture’ Of Diabetes In Kimberley Aboriginal Communities, Caitlyn S. White, Kimberley Seear, Lorraine Anderson, Emma Griffiths

Journal of the Australian Indigenous HealthInfoNet

Objective
Aboriginal communities are impacted by high rates of diabetes, however these are currently underestimated by national data sources used by policy and decision makers to inform allocation of health resources. We aimed to estimate diabetes prevalence and screening coverage using primary care electronic medical record data.

Methods
A cross-sectional audit was conducted using primary care data from Aboriginal regular Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Service (ACCHS) clinic attendees aged 15 years and over (n=1763) in five remote communities in the Kimberley region. Main outcome measures were overall diabetes prevalence; age-specific diabetes prevalence; prevalence of pre-diabetes; and screening rates among patients …

The Inequitable Burden Of Infectious Diseases Among Remote-Living Aboriginal And Torres Strait Islander Australians: A Product Of History, Stephanie L. Enkel, Rebecca Famlonga, Hannah M. M. Thomas, Nina Lansbury, Jonathan R. Carapetis, Glenn Pearson, Asha C. Bowen

Journal of the Australian Indigenous HealthInfoNet

Insufficient and poorly maintained housing and plumbing in many remote Australian Indigenous communities in Australia results in reduced capacity to maintain personal hygiene, contributing to infectious disease inequalities. Infections from Streptococcus pyogenes (Strep A) and sequalae are often noted to be the result of contextual poverty; a product of over 230 years of discriminatory practice that has excluded Indigenous people from the basic human rights of healthy, maintained housing afforded to most in the nation. The solutions for eliminating diseases of inequity among Australian Indigenous population are known, their success is historically documented, and yet they are to be comprehensively …

The Koolungar Moorditj Healthy Skin Project: Elder And Community Led Resources Strengthen Aboriginal Voice For Skin Health, Bernadette M. Ricciardo, Jacinta Walton, Noel Nannup, Dale Tilbrook, Heather-Lynn Kessaris, Carol Michie, Brad Farrant, Roni Forrest, Annette Garlett, Joanne Hill, Larissa Jones, Natasha Kickett, Sally Smith, Delys Walton, Taleah Ugle, Nadia Rind, Richelle Douglas, Jodie Ingrey, Brenda Carter, Ainslie Poore, Ingrid Amgarth-Duff, Hannah Thomas, Prasad S. Kumarasinghe, Jonathan R. Carapetis, Asha C. Bowen

Journal of the Australian Indigenous HealthInfoNet

In partnership with local Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisations, the Elder-led co-designed Koolungar Moorditj Healthy Skin project is guided by principles of reciprocity, capacity building, respect, and community involvement. Through this work, the team of Elders, community members, clinicians and research staff have gained insight into the skin health needs of urban-living Aboriginal koolungar (children); and having identified a lack of targeted and culturally appropriate health literacy and health promotion resources on moorditj (strong) skin, prioritised development of community-created healthy skin resources. Community members self-appointed to Aboriginal Community Advisory Groups (CAG) on Whadjuk (Perth) …

Physical Activity Barriers And Facilitators In African American Women: A Social Ecological Models Perspective, Leah Ann Carter

LSU Doctoral Dissertations

African American (AA) women experience poor health outcomes that can be addressed by increasing PA engagement. Understanding how PA barriers and facilitators occur at multiple levels of influence may help tailor PA interventions for AA women. Although prior work has established barriers to PA that are unique to African American women, few studies identify the sociocultural norms associated with these impediments. Little is known about the cultural implications of barriers such as haircare maintenance, and public policy.

The primary aim of this dissertation was to capture AA women’s voice about PA barriers and facilitators using the social ecological model framework. …

Development Of Solitary Keratoacanthoma From A Cutaneous Wart, Joshua M. Ninan, Veronica Salazar

Research Symposium

Background: Common cutaneous warts, referred to in medicine as verrucae vulgaris, are proliferative lesions caused by human papillomavirus. These lesions are mostly benign and usually resolve without incident, except in the case of the patient mentioned in this report. Our patient developed a solitary keratoacanthoma, currently accepted as a clinical variant of squamous cell carcinoma, as a result of several risk factors and traumatic exposure. The current literature does not have an established association of HPV with solitary keratoacanthomas. This case report explores the presentation and pathogenesis of solitary keratoacanthomas within the setting of HPV.

Case Presentation: 48-year-old Caucasian female …

Gut Feelings: A Literature Review On The Gut-Brain Axis And Its Potential Influence On Mood, Grace Johnson

University Honors Theses

In recent decades, research on the gut-brain axis has evolved due to an increasing interest in the connection between gut health and mental health. The gut-brain axis presents a new frontier of health for both medical professionals and psychologists as there is expanding evidence illustrating the comorbidity of gut disorders and mood disorders. Due to the complex nature of studying the gut-brain axis and the myriad of influences on mood disorders such as depression, research has yet to find significant results definitively tying the two together. Nonetheless, the current body of literature on the topic provides a promising outlook on …

How To Build And Sustain A Transdisciplinary Community-Based Exercise Program For Older Adults, Stephen D. Ball Phd, Kristin Miller Ms, Kelsey J. Weitzel Ms, Breanne S. Baker Phd

Journal of Extension

We have built a community-based program called Stay Strong, Stay Healthy, which helps older adults improve muscle strength and flexibility while reducing fall risk. This report details lessons learned and keys to success for Extension practitioners. First, maximize the potential of your state’s Extension framework by building a program that centers around your target population and is fun and easy to implement. Second, partner with researchers who can help to improve program effectiveness and logistical feasibility on larger scales. Lastly, continue to evaluate and adapt based on feedback from those who utilize and implement the program.

Risk Factors Of Dental Anxiety And Exploration Of Interventions, Katelin Hancock

University Honors Theses

Within this literature review, the root causes of dental anxiety, current intervention methods, and possible preventative interventions are discussed. Dental anxiety affects millions of individuals across diverse backgrounds and can be detrimental to oral health. This issue can arise from various sources, however, different socioeconomic and sociodemographic factors can contribute to an individual's risk of developing dental anxiety. Understanding what predisposes certain populations to become more likely to develop dental anxiety is imperative to holistically address the concern. Investigating the relationship between lack of access, oral health, and anxiety levels allows for an understanding of the root causes of anxiety. …

Close Contacts Of Xenograft Recipients: Ethical Considerations Due To Risk Of Xenozoonosis, Daniel J Hurst, Luz Padilla, Daniel Rodger, Tamar Schiff, David K C Cooper

Rowan-Virtua School of Osteopathic Medicine Departmental Research

With decades of pre-clinical studies culminating in the recent clinical application of xenotransplantation, it would appear timely to provide recommendations for operationalizing oversight of xenotransplantation clinical trials. Ethical issues with clinical xenotransplantation have been described for decades, largely centering on animal welfare, the risks posed to the recipient, and public health risks posed by potential spread of xenozoonosis. Much less attention has been given to considerations relating to potentially elevated risks faced by those who may care for or otherwise have close contact with xenograft recipients. This paper examines the ethical and logistical issues raised by the potential exposure to …

Policy Review And Recommendation: Full Practice Authority For Nurse Practitioners In The Southwestern United States, Sara J. Rowe

Student Scholarly Projects

This policy analysis investigates the benefits of full practice authority (FPA) for Nurse Practitioners (NPs) in the Southwestern United States, using Arizona as an FPA model and California and Tennessee as comparison states. The PICO question that directed the project is: for NPs practicing as advanced practice nurse practitioners within the Southwestern United States region (P), does a comprehensive policy recommendation for FPA for NP-led clinics in the secondary education space (I) compared to existing variable approaches within the region (C) improve access to care and direct or indirect patient outcomes as endorsed by the literature (O)? A comprehensive literature …

Work Ability Among Older Workers In An Agricultural Community In Nan Province, Thailand: A Cross-Sectional Study, Jate Ratanachina, Wilawan Mormoon

Chulalongkorn Medical Journal

Background: There is a global challenge regarding demographic change together with theaging population. Research on work ability among older workers in an agricultural area remains crucial, particularly in Thailand, an aged society country with thirty percent of its working population in the agricultural sector.

Objective: To estimate work ability among older workers in an agricultural community and to determine the relationship between work ability and its associations.

Methods: A cross-sectional study of adults aged 40 to 65 was conducted in an agricultural community in Nan province, Thailand, between May and August 2019. The study participants consisted of 345 villagers …

Birth Defect Trends Within Texas Public Health Region 11, 2000-2019: An Analysis Of Texas Department Of State Health Services Public Data., Miguel A. Lopez, Jonathan M. Hebert, Padmanabhan Rengasamy

Research Symposium

South Texas is a predominantly Hispanic region with high rates of chronic illness, poor healthcare access, and a history of birth defect clusters. Between 1986 and 1991, 47 cases of anencephaly in Cameron County were linked to elevated fumonisins in the region’s corn-based diet, prompting a series of ongoing public health efforts. This paper aims to identify changes in prevalence for CNS defects, in addition to cardiac, circulatory, gastrointestinal, and genitourinary defects in South Texas within the last two decades. Public data on 20 birth defects from the Texas Department of State Health Services were obtained for decades 2000-2010 and …

Sexual Health Questionnaire Results: Demographics And Sexual History And Risk Patterns, Veda Maany

Health Sciences Data Repository

Dataset for manuscript titled “The Sexual History Intake of the College Student: A Different Approach”

This file contains the following variables: age, sex, sexual history, and risk pattern regarding barrier methods.

Data was generated in 2023.

Sexual Health Questionnaire Results: Behavior Correlation With Test Specimen, Veda Maany

Health Sciences Data Repository

No abstract provided.

Sexual Health Questionnaire Results: Variable Correlation With Sti Diagnoses, Veda Maany

Health Sciences Data Repository

No abstract provided.

How To Develop A Qualitative Evaluation Plan For A Complex National Intervention: Key Steps And Reflections From The Radx-Up Program, Shelly A. Maras, Josephine Mckelvy, Kelley Milligan, Allyson Kelley, Valerie A. Lucas, Tara Carr, Abisola Osinuga, Leah Frerichs, Gaurav Dave

The Qualitative Report

This article describes the formative process of developing and implementing a Qualitative Evaluation Plan (QEP) for a large-scale, National Institute of Health (NIH) supported program: Rapid Acceleration of Diagnostics — Underserved Populations (RADx-UP). RADx-UP includes over 137 projects in the United States that aim to ensure that all Americans have access to timely, accurate diagnostics for COVID-19, with a specific focus on populations the pandemic disproportionately affects. As part of a comprehensive, mixed-methods strategic evaluation plan, our team developed the QEP. We employed qualitative methods to understand RADx-UP academic and community partners’ experiences implementing community-engaged research strategies, and to understand …

Addressing Barriers To Black Americans Participation In Clinical Trials: A Faith-Based Community Survey, Alexandra Stone, Lydell Lettsome Md, Brian A. Stone Md, Clinical Diversity Solutions

Medical Student Research Symposium

Background: The underrepresentation of high-risk minority groups in clinical trials remains a crisis in American healthcare. Despite pressures from the NIH to increase Black-American participation in trials, recruitment and retention in this group rarely match population demographics. Our company launched an opinion survey polling 260 Blacks regarding their thoughts and awareness about clinical trial participation.

Methods: We created a web-based survey consisting of 38 items and subdivided it into three main sections: (1) cultural affinity, (2) trust, and (3) background information. The survey was conducted using Jotform, a HIPAAcompliant web-based application. Our target population was Black Americans in central Alabama. …

Natural Spaces, A Social Determinant Of Health, And Self-Rated Health Among Medical Students, Josiah P. Stryd, Anil N. F. Aranha

Medical Student Research Symposium

Background and Purpose: Natural spaces are areas which have a majority of natural ground cover such as vegetation or water. These spaces have positive effects on both physical and mental health. The purpose of this study was to investigate whether medical students who have greater accessibility and use of natural spaces have better self-rated health.

Methods: M2-M4 students from Wayne State University School of Medicine received an email link to the Qualtrics-based study. Variables evaluated included: sociodemographics, residence zip code, natural spaces access frequency, distance, and transportation method. Self-rated physical and mental health was measured using the Healthy Days measure …

M-Chat Implementation Strategies To Improve Autism Screening Rates In Pediatric Clinics In Metro Detroit, Karamoja Monchamp

Medical Student Research Symposium

The Modified Checklist for Autism in Toddlers (M-CHAT) is the most widely used autism screening tool. However, current practices for M-CHAT roll-outs and follow-ups are not wide-reaching, culturally sensitive, or consistent. This study aims to address the existing barriers to universal autism screenings and design a sustainable implementation strategy for a successful M-CHAT roll-out. We implemented strategies in five Henry Ford Health pediatric clinics, incorporating iPad-administered M-CHAT in waiting rooms, multilingual options, task shifting for referrals, forced choice mechanisms, and audit-and-feedback support. A Clinical Screening Dashboard tracked real-time M-CHAT data, including demographic information, collected from EPIC. Our goal is to …

Histories, Cultural Contexts, Health Status, Wildlife Contact Characteristics, And Perception Towards Covid-19 Of The Urak Lawoi Ethnic Group In Koh Lanta District, Krabi Province Of Thailand: A Qualitative Study, Kanokwan Suwannarong, Paisit Boonyakawee, Thanomsin Ponlap, Kannika Thammasutti, Phitsanuruk Kanthawee, Nisachon Bubpa, Chularat Boonyakawee, Vittaya Pulkird, Junsri Changnum

Journal of Health Research

Background: The Urak Lawoi ethnic group is an indigenous community residing in the Andaman Sea of southern Thailand and are engaged in various activities related to wild animals. This qualitative study was conducted from November 2022 to February 2023 to collect information on wildlife contact characteristics and determine the level of awareness and understanding of zoonotic diseases and COVID-19 risks among this ethnic group in Koh Lanta district, Krabi province.

Methods: This qualitative study collected data through key informant interviews (KIIs) and focus group discussions (FGDs). The study respondents included 29 Urak Lawoi village health volunteers (VHVs), To Mo …

Assessing Oral Health-Related Quality Of Life And The Application Of Silver Diamine Fluoride (Sdf) In Arresting Caries Among Older Adults, Palinee Detsomboonrat, Panatcha Weerapol, Sirinan Tangyusuk

Journal of Health Research

Background: This study aimed to evaluate the impact of oral health problems on oral health-related quality of life (OHRQoL) and assess the effectiveness of the application of 38% silver diamine fluoride (SDF) solution in arresting dental surface caries among the older adults.

Methods: This study assessed the oral impact on daily performance (OIDP) scores and evaluated the percentage of arrested caries and patient satisfaction levels before and after receiving SDF treatment among older, community-dwelling adults attending the Diabetes Mellitus Clinic under the care of Bangkok Public Health Center 5.

Results: In total, 42.9% of 49 participants encountered a minimum of …

Finding A Good Fit: Tips On Hiring Rural Personal Assistants, Rayna A. Sage, Krys Standley

Health and Wellness

Living in rural areas means being part of close communities. For people with disabilities in these areas, Personal Assistance Services (PAS) help them live on their own. But finding good PAS workers in rural places can be hard. To help you pick the right PAS worker, we explored what traits make them a good fit.

“No Matter How Hot It Is, You Just Have To Do The Work”: Examining Farmworkers’ Experiences With Heat And Climate Change In Idaho, Carly Hyland, Delmy Flores, Grace Augusto, Irene Ruiz, Marielena Vega, Rulon Wood

Public and Population Health Faculty Publications and Presentations

Introduction: Farmworkers are one of the populations most vulnerable to climate change. In addition to disproportionate exposure to climate-intensified hazards such as extreme heat and wildfire smoke, many farmworkers face situational and psychosocial stressors that also impact their health.

Methods: We conducted open-ended interviews with 16 farmworkers in Southcentral Idaho during June-August 2023 as part of a digital storytelling project in partnership with the Idaho Organization of Resource Councils (IORC). Interviews assessed participants’ experiences with climate change, perceived impacts on their health, and strategies and barriers to protecting themselves. Bilingual (English/Spanish) study staff translated and transcribed all video recordings verbatim, …

Why I Chose To Practice In Rural Michigan, Lisenia M. Collazo Dmd, Mph

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

This article explores the motivations behind dentists choosing rural practice, focusing on personal experiences and factors influencing career decisions. The narrative outlines the author’s journey from Pennsylvania to the Upper Peninsula of Michigan, emphasizing a commitment to addressing oral health disparities in underserved communities. The discussion covers training experiences, financial considerations, community engagement, and the challenges of rural health care. The author also highlights the role of mentorship and advocates for building relationships with mentors in the profession, especially in rural settings. The essay underscores rural practice’s unique advantages, including professional growth, lower living costs, and a supportive community.

News You Need, David Foe Ma

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

The 2024 MDA Annual Session promises a range of valuable events and courses, including a free keynote by Joe Johnson, PhD, addressing career fulfillment. Additional highlights include the Gordon Christensen session, new dentist track, leadership courses, and an expansive exhibit hall. Meanwhile, the MDA House of Delegates Nominating Committee announced its candidate slate for the upcoming administrative year. The MDA also offers a free webinar on suicide prevention and celebrates communities awarded for water fluoridation quality. Additionally, ADA news covers a clinical guideline on managing dental pain, the ADA Academy's teaching program, and World Oral Health Day initiatives. Lastly, local …

Washington’S Ride Program: A Model Providing Rural Practitioners, Mary K. Smith Dds, Mba

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

The University of Washington School of Dentistry Regional Initiatives in Dental Education (RIDE) program is an award-winning dental education model that trains dentists to practice in rural and underserved areas. Its first cohort of students graduated in 2012. To date, there have been 96 graduates. More than 80% of RIDE graduates in practice are in rural and underserved areas, including those seeking specialty training. RIDE is successful because it collaborates with multiple universities, community health centers, local dental associations, and community leaders in the area where the students are located.

Market Realities For Rural And Small-Town Practices, W. E. Rupprecht Dds

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

This article explores the challenges rural dental practitioners face in Michigan, highlighting the struggle to find successors for practice continuity and the impact on patient care. Examining sales data and demographic trends reveals disparities in successful practice transitions, emphasizing the difficulty in attracting buyers to rural areas. The reluctance of potential buyers, influenced by family and professional considerations, underscores the need for strategic solutions. Initiatives by the Michigan Dental Association and innovative approaches such as mentorship and financial incentives aim to address these challenges. The article concludes by urging practitioners to act as stewards and plan for successful transitions in …

J Mich Dent Assoc March 2024

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

Every month, The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association provides news, information, and features about Michigan dentistry to our state's oral health community and the MDA's 6,200+ members. It stands as the primary publication reaching Michigan dentists.

In the March 2024 issue, the Journal focuses on the landscape of practicing in rural settings. Original content includes:

• A cover story discussing "Market Realities for Rural and Small-Town Practices"

• A feature commentary from a new dentist in the Upper Peninsula on "Why I Chose to Practice in Rural Michigan"

• A feature article highlighting a dental education initiative, "Washington’s RIDE Program: A Model …

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