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- Creators: College of Health Solutions
Description
The mission of EZ-Sit is to alleviate pain and increase comfort by creating a product that allows users to put their feet up when sitting for long periods of time. This product will connect to any single stem office chair with ease and will provide users with the ability to put their feet up whenever and wherever they work. Our goal is to empower individuals to pursue their goals without the hindrance of discomfort that comes with sitting for extended periods of time. At EZ-Sit we believe that no one’s productivity should be impeded due to the pain caused by a sedentary work life. We hope that this product will bring about physical well being in the workplace so individuals can focus on the day ahead of them. At EZ-Sit, our values include personal health, affordability, and productivity. Personal health is one of our core principles because we believe that people should not have to endure pain while sitting in order to get their work done. We value the integrity of the hard work that many people show while trying to pursue their dreams. We believe this strong drive for personal or professional growth should not have the consequences of pain. We also believe that our solution should be accessible to all regardless of financial situations. Our Vision at EZ-Sit is to create awareness around healthy sitting practices in addition to how these practices can boost productivity and can prevent burnout. We want to encourage people to take a stand about their sitting habits. Our analysis of the foot rest industry shows that this is not the first product of its kind, but the EZ-Sit is certainly the most accessible. Footrests exist all over the internet and in stores, but all of them are independent of the actual chair. These foot rests are one size-fits all and provide no physiological benefits to users who are either too short or too tall. In addition there are chairs on the market that have a built-in footrest. These chairs, however, are very expensive. This effectively excludes a whole portion of the market who do not have the means to invest in the product. We plan on marketing to young professionals who fall into the age range of eighteen to twenty-eight years old. We want to emphasize that taking care of your body while pursuing your goals is not something to be taken lightly. When we have a working model we plan on using social media platforms such as Instagram and TikTok to show how the product works as well as educate individuals around the health benefits of this product. Because this product is new to the market it is important for users to understand why it is different from other footrests in the market. Social media will also help to differentiate our product from the others by showing comparisons. We also plan on utilizing slogans that resonate without demographics such as “EZ-Sit, That’s It!” in order to grab the attention of our target audience.
ContributorsAmavizca Aldama, Jesus (Author) / Kozub, Isabella (Co-author) / Choi, Enoch (Co-author) / Heraty, Gabe (Co-author) / Ventura, Jedriq (Co-author) / Byrne, Jared (Thesis director) / Thompson, Anna (Committee member) / Barrett, The Honors College (Contributor) / College of Health Solutions (Contributor)
Created2024-05
Description
This research investigates how undergraduate students maintain health and wellness within the collegiate environment, focusing on lifestyle-specific challenges and supporting factors. It explores diverse undergraduate lifestyles, such as student athletes, Greek life members, honors students, art majors, and STEM majors, analyzing factors including dietary habits, fitness routines, mental health, social interactions, and sleep patterns. Understanding these dynamics is crucial during this developmental period, where students face new lifestyle habits that can impact their long-term well-being. Recognizing the unique challenges of different groups allows universities and students to create environments that nurture success. The qualitative study, conducted through podcast interviews with students from Arizona State University, identifies both maintained and neglected aspects of wellness within each lifestyle. Limitations in sample size are acknowledged and suggested avenues for further research to enhance comprehensiveness are also provided. We use qualitative data from various studies and research that has been conducted on the different lifestyles of college students and aspects of their wellness that are hindered or facilitated through their lifestyles. Our findings indicate that every lifestyle of undergraduate students has unique challenges and advantages in regard to maintaining their health and wellness. There are multiple commonalities and differences that can be explored through the five different interviews which are both conducive and incompatible with previous literature and studies.
ContributorsNamvari, Roxana (Author) / Ness, Kaylee (Co-author) / Don, Rachael (Thesis director) / Mayol-Kreiser, Sandra (Committee member) / Barrett, The Honors College (Contributor) / School of Life Sciences (Contributor) / College of Health Solutions (Contributor)
Created2024-05
Description
The persistent prejudice and ostracization faced by the American Indian and Alaska Natives (AI/AN) community has contributed to a lack of resources, disrupting the political and economic state of the AIAN community (Thornton, 1987; Jones, 2006; Crepelle, 2023). Systematic alienation of the AIAN community in healthcare has resulted in differences in the form of treatment and a lack of trust and connectedness between patient and provider (Jones, 2006, 2020; Crepelle, 2023; Mangla & Agarwal, 2023). In the literature reviewed, there was only a connectedness scale used to grade how the patient felt toward the provider (Mohatt et al., 2011; King et al., 2019; Peters et al., 2019). However, there was no connectedness scale used to evaluate the provider or institutional agency providing healthcare. Using previous literature, a qualitative connectedness questionnaire was adopted with the intention of using a structured interview and questioning approach to determine how Indian Health Services (IHS) agencies promoted connectedness and trust between patients and providers (Mohatt et al., 2011; King et al., 2019; Peters et al., 2019; The Indian Health Services, n.d; (ITUs List - Indian Health Service (IHS), Tribally-Operated 638 Programs, and Urban Indian Health Programs in Arizona, n.d.). From there, a thematic analysis analyzed similarities and differences between agencies finding common themes (Ryan & Bernard, 2003; Swanbrow Becker et al., 2017). One finding indicated a lack of representation amongst the providers even though much of the ‘initial staff’ i.e. receptionists and medical assistants were of AIAN descent. As a result, more representation amongst those in the upper management of healthcare can help to increase a sense of connectedness and trust between patient and provider (Mangla & Agarwal, 2023) .
Keywords: AIAN, Connectedness, Trust, Lack of Representation, Healthcare
ContributorsRobinson, Dominique (Author) / Kizer, Elizabeth (Thesis director) / Hogan, Jessica (Committee member) / Barrett, The Honors College (Contributor) / School of International Letters and Cultures (Contributor) / College of Health Solutions (Contributor)
Created2024-05
Description
The gut microbiota plays a critical role in homeostasis of various tissues. Not only does the microbiota play a role in metabolic processes throughout the body, but it also regulates hypothalamic function, body composition, bone architecture, and inflammation. The goal of this study is to determine if short-term depletion of the gut microbiota influences body composition as well as hypothalamic inflammation in mice.
ContributorsShull, David (Author) / Roberts, Joseph (Thesis director) / Kim, Min-Hyun (Committee member) / Barrett, The Honors College (Contributor) / College of Health Solutions (Contributor)
Created2024-05
Description
Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD), or colloquial alcoholism, is used to identify an abnormality in drinking behaviors that hinder an individual from working, engaging in social activities, and health. The classification of alcohol abuse is determined by how frequently an individual drinks, the interference with daily activity, and the quantity of consumption. Concerning age, the frequency of midlife adults (ages thirty and older) with AUD symptoms is increasing to more than twice that of the general population (Patrick et al., 2023).
The primary focus of this research is to analyze existing treatment options in Arizona, identify gaps within the treatments, and recommend a treatment option that fills the gaps for midlife adults. The study included a variety of research analyzing the root causes of Alcohol Use Disorder, including AUD in the context of Arizona, parental impact of unhealthy alcohol consumption, AUD in people of color, and stigma surrounding treatment.
The study's methods involved a qualitative comparative analysis reviewing six current treatment facilities ranging from inpatient to outpatient across the Phoenix area, except one location based in Chandler. The treatment plans in the programs were then compared to each other to identify a trend in treatment effectiveness and gaps that might interfere with the retention rate.
The study's results revealed that Arizona's current treatment options, both inpatient and outpatient, are not long enough to enable long-term recovery post-treatment. The lack of customizability in the age range results in a disconnection between existing treatment and retention rates.
ContributorsMoton, Hannah (Author) / Kappes, Janelle (Thesis director) / Cordell, Zach (Committee member) / Barrett, The Honors College (Contributor) / College of Health Solutions (Contributor)
Created2024-05
Description
The main objective of this thesis was to answer this question: How does black representation in the media of the early two-thousands fit into the more extensive history of black representation, and how do young people perceive it today? My research methods were separated into three parts: the historical perspective, the initial survey, and the focus group. I sought to understand how African Americans were depicted in the film and television industry from the 20th century to modern times and how these depictions impacted a black viewer’s psyche. I conducted an initial survey in which I collected 32 ASU students’ emotional responses to their childhood media. Then, I compared these responses to historical accounts of black representation. Lastly, I conducted a focus group of eight participants who watched a modern film (The Woman King) and attended a film discussion. The focus group was meant to answer whether black viewers’ perceptions of black representation improved over time.
ContributorsGarth, Jolie (Author) / Cruse, Markus (Thesis director) / Joslin, Isaac (Committee member) / Azuma, Tamiko (Committee member) / Barrett, The Honors College (Contributor) / College of Health Solutions (Contributor)
Created2024-05
Description
A guide to anti-inflammatory compounds and how to incorporate more of them into a regular diet. This research and creative project was made for the general public to learn more about preventing chronic illnesses. The book will both explain the mechanisms and pathways in layman's terms of 13 compounds and provide the reader with over 20 recipes with ingredients that contain them (i.e. carotenoids in carrots).
ContributorsMoore, Taylor (Author) / Villella, Anthony (Co-author) / Forouzeshyekta, Marjon (Thesis director) / Kizer, Elizabeth (Committee member) / Medcalf, Rollin (Committee member) / Barrett, The Honors College (Contributor) / College of Health Solutions (Contributor)
Created2024-05
Description
Abstract
Purpose of the Study
Vocabulary breadth and depth in children is associated with higher academic achievement, yet time for explicit vocabulary instruction is schools is limited. Physical activity has been proposed as a method to potentially improve word learning in children.
Method
In this pilot study, children were taught Tier 2 vocabulary words through two distinct interventions. Using a single-case alternating treatment design, this study evaluated whether high-intensity aerobic physical activity preceding vocabulary teaching could enhance word learning compared to sessions with only one vocabulary instruction. Participants included two children ages 9 and 11, who engaged in a four-week intervention of 16 sessions with immediate post intervention probes and a maintenance measure one week post training.
Results
As this project is currently ongoing, results are inconclusive.
Discussion
The author discusses key take away points learned from conducting this research study.
ContributorsKitchel, Jaron (Author) / Gray, Shelley (Thesis director) / Larson, David (Committee member) / Barrett, The Honors College (Contributor) / College of Health Solutions (Contributor)
Created2024-05
Description
Patient-physician interactions are the cornerstone of healthcare delivery, with the potential to significantly influence patient outcomes and healthcare efficiency. The quality of patient-physician interactions is pivotal in facilitating efficient communication concerning patient care and treatment. This relationship impacts the patient's adherence to medical advice and trust in healthcare. Considering the diversity of the patient population, there are a multitude of pertinent variables to take into account, including but not limited to English proficiency, race, educational attainment, age, gender, and socioeconomic status. How do patient-physician communication patterns and demographic variables impact patient comprehension, perception of communication efficacy, and healthcare outcomes across diverse cultural, linguistic, and socioeconomic backgrounds? The purpose of this thesis is to comprehensively understand the characteristics underlying effective patient-physician communication and its impact on patient compliance, retention of medical information, and healthcare outcomes. By addressing racial, cultural, linguistic, and socioeconomic disparities in healthcare, the research aims to establish a universal foundation for augmenting patient-centered care. The methodology of this research included an extensive literature review, shadowing of clinical visits, and patient care, along with the distribution of a survey to patients to gain insight into their satisfaction with healthcare. Practical applications include the development of targeted interventions, communication training programs for healthcare providers, and the formulation of policies aimed at improving patient outcomes and healthcare system efficiency. This research paper investigates the impact of physician attitudes on patient understanding and overall health through a comprehensive analysis of survey data collected from 115 individuals attending various clinics. Our findings highlight the significance of quality healthcare delivery in fostering favorable patient experiences, with 63.5% of respondents rating their visits as excellent or very good. Effective communication emerges as a key determinant of patient satisfaction, with 64.4% of respondents rating communication as excellent or very good. However, a notable proportion of respondents (26.9%) rated their overall satisfaction as neutral or dissatisfied, indicating areas for improvement in patient satisfaction related to unaddressed concerns or inadequate communication. Gender-related concerns, reactive versus proactive medicine, mental health, and shared decision-making emerge as overlooked topics in current clinical practice. Our observations underscore the need for a holistic approach that addresses patients' psychosocial and emotional needs alongside medical concerns. Gender-related differences in care delivery are evident, with female patients reporting feeling dismissed or misunderstood by male doctors, particularly regarding issues related to pain or reproductive health. Female physicians are associated with a greater likelihood of receiving preventive counseling and gender-specific screening, highlighting the importance of gender diversity in healthcare. Furthermore, patients express frustration with a reactive approach to medicine, advocating for a higher focus on addressing the underlying causes of health issues rather than merely treating symptoms. Patients also desire more information about natural remedies and holistic treatment options, emphasizing the importance of incorporating these discussions into shared decision-making between doctors and patients. The study underscores the pivotal role of specific provider qualities such as communication, empathy, and attention to patient comfort in patient-centered care delivery. The comprehension and cooperation rating between the doctor and patient was 81.8% excellent and good with a remaining 18.2% indicating the need for a more interactive visit. Based on the survey, the important qualities of a provider from highest to lowest ranking include communication (listening and understanding), empathy and kindness, medical knowledge proficiency, and quality listening. Due to the heavy importance of communication, healthcare providers must gain the necessary skills to cater to and address many of the concerns of their patients outside of simple medical knowledge. Given the doctor explanation comprehension rating of 25.2% being somewhat clear and not so clear, providers must develop their patient communication skills to optimize patient satisfaction and compliance. Cultural competency emerges as a critical aspect of providing effective and equitable care to patients from diverse backgrounds. However, there are limitations to the study, including the relatively small sample size and potential response bias. The findings of this study provide valuable insights into the multifaceted nature of the doctor-patient interaction and underscore the importance of effective communication, patient-centered care, and shared decision-making in promoting positive patient outcomes. According to the patient experience survey, talking more in-depth about the patient treatment plan and taking the time to display eagerness to help and be active in one’s health will significantly enhance visit satisfaction. In addition to patients' ratings of physician level of empathy and respect consisting of 93% of respondents as exceeded or met expectations, the patient confidence in their health situation out of 10 was 6 and above for 90 percent of the survey respondents. However, with the shared decision-making rating, 28.3% of respondents felt being somewhat involved or a little involved in their care. By addressing patient needs and preferences and fostering collaborative relationships between physicians and patients, healthcare providers can enhance patient satisfaction, adherence to treatment recommendations, and overall health outcomes.
ContributorsLa Crosse, Amber (Author) / Abdul, Zahir (Co-author) / Agu, Nnenna (Thesis director) / Markabawi, Bashar (Committee member) / Barrett, The Honors College (Contributor) / College of Health Solutions (Contributor) / School of Molecular Sciences (Contributor)
Created2024-05
Description
The various muscle fiber types as they are determined by their composition of the myosin heavy chain (MHC) isoform, whether it is pure type I (slow twitch) or pure type II (fast twitch), or a hybrid fiber type, are known to impact the overall metabolic function in humans (Serrano et al., 2019). While it is recognized that active high performing individuals (such as strength athletes) have a larger distribution of type IIa muscle fibers, the distribution of hybrid fibers in muscle of lean and physically inactive human fibers remains unknown (Serrano el. Al., 2019). Hybrid fibers are thought to be fibers in the transitional phase of muscle adaptation (Williamson et al. 2001). Previous studies have shown that resistance exercise training increases specialized fiber composition as compared to hybrid variants. Given the relationship between reduced metabolic activity and quantity of transitional fibers, it is possible that sedentary individuals may have a less effective metabolic profile. This study examines the composition of MHC content in muscle fibers, with a special emphasis on describing hybrid fibers in lean, physically-inactive individuals, to improve our understanding of muscle adaptation and metabolic health. The study provides a directed analysis of hybrid fibers into I/IIa and IIa/IIx groups in physically inactive humans, which adds to our knowledge of muscle fiber specialization in response to physical activity. This research proposes to test the hypothesis that an individual's distribution of muscle fiber types is influenced by the prevalence of hybrid fiber types, when categorized using single fiber SDS-PAGE, with a specific focus on lean individuals. Through single muscle fiber SDS PAGE analysis of 1821 fibers from 11 participants, 293 were identified as hybrid fibers, with a greater prevalence of IIa/IIx hybrids compared to lean-active healthy adults. Through this investigation, we aim to contribute valuable insights into the complex interplay between muscle fiber types, potentially informing future therapeutic strategies targeting muscle function and metabolic health.
ContributorsSodhi, Sukhleen (Author) / Katsanos, Christos (Thesis director) / Serrano, Nathan (Committee member) / Barrett, The Honors College (Contributor) / School of Life Sciences (Contributor) / College of Health Solutions (Contributor)
Created2024-05