Applicant:  Meghan Baruth

Title: Midland County Needs Assessment

Submitted: October 2018

Proposal Abstract: A Midland County community needs assessment will be conducted in 2019 to help inform health concerns in the county, address equity in access and preventative care, and create common “themes” based on data to help address countywide health issues and perceptions. These data will be used for, and are integral to, the creation of a community health improvement plan. The survey will be administered to ~500 Midland county residents via an online survey link and/or a survey administered face-to-face at various organizations and events within the community. Students will assist in survey development and administration, and in analyzing data gathered from the survey. A comprehensive report will be created and presented to the Health and Human Services Council of Midland County.

Applicant: Meghan Baruth

Title:  Evaluation of a behavioral physical activity and dietary intervention for pregnant women

Submitted: October 2017

Proposal Abstract:  A majority of pregnant women do not meet physical activity (PA), nutrition, or weight gain recommendations, despite their efficacy in improving maternal and child health outcomes. There is a need for evidence-based behavioral interventions that focus on PA and healthy diet during pregnancy in an effort to promote appropriate weight gain. An evidence-based physical activity and dietary pilot intervention for pregnant women was recently implemented. Students played a critical role in the recruitment, delivery, and evaluation of the intervention. In addition to the pre/post intervention evaluations, the project includes two follow-up assessments at 3- and 6-months post-partum. Such assessments will provide information on weight gain retention, physical activity, and dietary behaviors post-birth. Students will have the opportunity to collect follow-up data and also write manuscripts using the baseline and post-intervention data that has been collected.

Applicant: Meghan Baruth

Title: SELF: Supporting Healthy Futures

Submitted: October 2016

Proposal Abstract: A majority of pregnant women do not meet physical activity (PA), nutrition, or weight gain recommendations, despite their efficacy in improving maternal and child health outcomes. There is a need for evidence-based behavioral interventions that focus on PA and healthy diet during pregnancy in an effort to promote appropriate weight gain. Therefore, the purpose of this study is to implement and evaluate an evidence-based, behavioral PA and dietary pilot intervention for pregnant women. The intervention includes three main components: (1) self monitoring of PA and weight via a FitBit and scale, (2) social support via a study website, Facebook page, and healthy lifestyle coaches, and (3) optional walking groups. The Exercise is MedicineTM initiative is utilized, whereby physicians from Valley OB/GYN (Saginaw, MI) assist in recruiting pregnant women to enroll in the intervention, by prescribing physical activity to the patient. Students play a major role in the recruitment (via presence in the clinic), delivery (via serving as ‘healthy lifestyle coaches’), and evaluation (via overseeing measurement sessions) of the intervention, and will present findings from the study at regional and/or national conferences.

Applicant: Meghan Baruth

Title: The development and implementation of a behavioral pilot nutrition and physical activity intervention for pregnant women

Submitted: October 2015

Project Abstract: A majority of pregnant women do not meet PA (PA) and nutrition recommendations, despite their efficacy in improving maternal and child health outcomes. There is a need for evidence-based behavioral interventions that consider the barriers and program needs of the population, that focus on PA and healthy diet during pregnancy. Therefore, the purpose of this study is to develop, implement, and evaluate an evidence-based, behavioral PA and dietary pilot intervention for pregnant women. The intervention will be informed in part by an extensive literature review. Therefore, although the exact intervention is unclear at this point (i.e. will be informed by data collected), a few components are certain. These include (1) self monitoring of PA and weight via a FitBit and scale, (2) social support via online support groups, and (3) optional group-based sessions emphasizing behavioral skills, and walking groups. The Exercise is Medicine^TM initiative will be utilized, whereby physicians from Valley OB/GYN (Saginaw, MI) will assist in recruiting pregnant women to enroll in the intervention. Students will play a major role in the development (via literature review), recruitment (via presence in the clinic), delivery (via serving as ‘healthy lifestyle coaches’), and evaluation (via overseeing measurement sessions) of the intervention, and will present findings from the study at regional and/or national conferences.

Applicant: Meghan Baruth

Title: A Lifestyle Intervention to Improve Health Behaviors Among Older Adults

Submitted: October 2014

Project Abstract: Although physical activity has been found to be associated with numerous health benefits, nearly half of all Americans do not meet recommendations. While there are many barriers to participation in regular physical activity, older adults appear to have a particularly difficult time. Providing opportunities for physical activity programs and teaching individuals the behaviors and skills necessary to incorporate physical activity into their daily life may be an effective means for improving health status. Therefore the purpose of this randomized controlled trial is to implement and evaluate a 12-week, behavioral, group-based physical activity intervention targeting older adults. Participants (n=90) will be randomized to a physical activity or healthy eating program and will attend 12 weekly, group-based intervention sessions. Each week will focus on a behavior/skill that will assist participants in changing their physical activity or eating behaviors (e.g. self-monitoring, social support, goal setting). Demographics, physical measures, physical activity, dietary behaviors, and potential mediators of change (e.g. social support, self-efficacy) will be measured at baseline and upon completion of the program (i.e. at 12 weeks). If this program is deemed effective, future steps can be taken to disseminate the program more widely, which holds potential for a significant impact on population health.

Applicant:  Rene Hernandez

Title: Development of an Emergency Shelter Plan for a Rural Village in Nepal

Submitted: October 2018

Proposal Abstract: Using ethnographic (cultural-focused inquiry) and phenomenologic (event/phenomenon-focused inquiry) qualitative research methods, students and faculty will develop an emergency shelter field guide designed to facilitate opening, maintaining, and closing the established emergency shelter will be developed for a rural village in Nepal. Utilizing existing U.S. Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) templates and models, community visits, and historical accounts of previous disasters and literature reviews, our team will create a shelter field guide booklet culturally appropriate for the English-speaking Nepali village that is ready for distribution to the community.

Applicant: Jeffrey Smith

Title: Does Long-term Enrichment Impact Therapeutic Efficacy of Pharmacological Interventions Following Traumatic Brain Injury?

Submitted: March 2015

Project Abstract: Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is a leading cause of death and disability; accounting for the, approximately, 1.5 million people (USA) that sustain a TBI each year. In addition to the cognitive, motor, and behavioral deficits that arise due to the initial injury, subsequent changes in mood and anxiety occur in almost 77 percent of the survivors of TBI. The physiological events that occur due to the damage to the brain is complex and includes events that act to compound the injury process and increases the functional losses beyond the initial damage. Since these post-injury consequences include well described physiological events several potential targets for pharmacological interventions have been identified. The proposed SVSU-URP will employ an animal model of TBI which allows for quantification of behavioral and cellular changes associated with damage to the frontal cortex. The proposed projects will determine if treatment with either a phenelzine, progesterone, or a combination of both will reduce the loses associated with injury in rats housed in complex environments. The experiments include measures associated with learning/motor function and symptoms of depression- and anxiety-like behaviors. Several histological measures will also be used to attempt to determine the mechanisms behind the proposed functional savings.

Applicant: Charles Weaver

Title: Does Infection with Enterococcus faecalis Induce Phosphorylation of Multiple Sites on the Tau Protein? – Implications for Alzheimer’s Disease

Submitted: October 2015

Project Abstract: The neurofibrillary tau pathology and amyloid deposits seen in Alzheimer's disease (AD) also have been seen in bacteria-infected brains. However, few studies have examined the role of these bacteria in the generation of tau pathology. One suggested link between infection and Alzheimer’s disease is edentulism, the complete loss of teeth. Edentulism can result from chronic periodontal disease due to infection by Enterococcus faecalis. Phosphorylation of Serine 202 of tau has been shown to occur following E. faecalis infection of rat primary cortical neurons, but at least 40 different sites of phosphorylation have been identified on tau in AD. The proposed SVSU-UGRP will employ a cell culture model of AD which allows for quantification of cellular changes associated with infection with E. faecalis. The proposed project will determine if infection is associated with abnormal phosphorylation along the entire length of the tau protein, particularly ones that occur prior to the onset of significant clinical signs. Biochemical and histological measures will be used in attempt to determine the mechanisms behind neurofibrillary tau pathology.

Applicant:  Samantha Deere

Title: Exercise is Medicine Implementation: Assessment of physical activity knowledge and development of healthcare provider education

Submitted: October 2018

Proposal Abstract: Participation in physical activity (PA) is a well-known prevention tool and treatment for many diseases (e.g. Heart Disease, Cancer, Diabetes). However, less than half of all Americans meet the current PA recommendation of 150 minutes of moderate-vigorous aerobic activity per week. It is well known that patients highly value the opinions/recommendations of their healthcare providers. In an effort of increasing PA participation, the American College of Sports Medicine developed the ‘Exercise Is Medicine^TM’ (EIM) initiative, which encourages healthcare providers to assess PA as a vital sign, prescribe PA, and refer patients to PA professionals. Despite global initiative growth (43 countries), many healthcare providers are unfamiliar with PA guidelines and choose not to discuss PA with their patients. The level of EIM participation in the Great Lakes Bay Region is unknown. Therefore, this project aims to 1) determine and publish the results of a recent survey of regional healthcare providers, 2) develop relationships with healthcare providers in the region, and 3) develop and execute healthcare provider educational opportunities. The developed partnerships and educational opportunities created through this project will help inform the future of EIM in the Great Lakes Bay Region, which may positively impact the overall health of community members. To complete this project, a student researcher will meet with the investigator weekly and will participate in many facets of the research process, including: data analysis, manuscript development, scholarly presentations, partnership and educational programming development.

Applicant:  Samantha Deere

Title:  Exercise is MedicineTM Implementation: Partnership Development and Needs Assessment

Submitted: October 2017

Proposal Abstract:  Participation in physical activity (PA) is a well-known prevention tool and treatment for many diseases (e.g. Heart Disease, Cancer, Diabetes). However, less than half of all Americans meet the current PA recommendation of 150 minutes of moderate-vigorous aerobic activity per week. It is well known that patients highly value the opinions/recommendations of their healthcare providers. In an effort of increasing PA participation, the American College of Sports Medicine developed the ‘Exercise Is Medicine^TM’ (EIM) initiative, which encourages healthcare providers to assess PA as a vital sign, prescribe PA, and refer patients to PA professionals. Despite global initiative growth (43 countries), many healthcare providers are unfamiliar with PA guidelines and choose not to discuss PA with their patients. The level of EIM participation in the Great Lakes Bay Region is unknown. Therefore, this project aims to 1) develop relationships with healthcare providers in the region and 2) assess healthcare provider a) knowledge of PA guidelines, b) likelihood of assessing PA as a vital sign, and c) likelihood of prescribing PA. The partnerships developed and knowledge gained through this project will help to inform the future of EIM in the Great Lakes Bay Region, which may positively impact the overall health of community members. To complete this project, a student researcher will meet with the investigator on a weekly basis and will participate in all facets of the research process, including, partnership development, IRB completion, data collection, and result dissemination.

Applicant: Samantha Deere

Title: Exercise Is Medicine: an initiative to improve physical activity behaviors in pregnant women

Submitted: October 2015

Project Abstract: Few pregnant women meet the national physical activity (PA) or nutrition recommendations, despite their efficacy in improving health outcomes (both maternal and child). There is a need for evidence-based behavioral interventions that focus on PA and healthy diet during pregnancy, while considering the barriers and program needs of the population. The American College of Sports Medicine’s (ACSM) Exercise is Medicine^TM (EIM) initiative aims to increase PA participation by encouraging health-care providers to assess PA as a vital sign. The effectiveness of the EIM initiative and Obstetrician’s perceptions of the EIM initiative have not been evaluated. The purpose of this study is to (1) develop, implement, and evaluate an evidence-based, behavioral PA and dietary pilot intervention, based on the EIM initiative, for pregnant women, and (2) evaluate physician perceptions of incorporating the EIM initiative into their practice. The intervention will be informed by data collected from focus groups and a literature review. Although the exact intervention is unclear at this point, a few components are certain: (1) self monitoring of PA and weight, (2) social support via online support groups, and (3) optional group-based behavioral sessions and walking groups. The EIM initiative will be utilized, whereby physicians from Valley OB/GYN (Saginaw, MI) will assist in recruiting pregnant women to enroll in the intervention. Students will play a major role in intervention development, subject recruitment, delivery, and evaluation, and will present findings from the study at regional and/or national conferences.

Applicant: Merrick Lincoln       

Title: Comparative One-Repetition Maximum Strength in Landmine and Free-weight Exercises

Submitted: March 2020

Abstract: Resistance training exercises intentionally apply external loads to the body to improve strength and related athletic qualities. To apply load to trainees, practitioners employ various resistance training tools and methods (“modalities”). Although free-weights and machines are most common, “landmine barbell training” is a novel modality that affords unique opportunities. Landmine barbell training utilizes common free-weight equipment-- a barbell and weight plates—as a lever, which is a feature of many resistance training machines. Many resistance training exercises can be modified for use with the landmine barbell modality. The application of external load to the exerciser is essential for improvement in strength and related qualities. Within physiological ranges, the magnitude of external load during resistance training is positively related to the degree of improvement in muscular strength. Therefore, a resistance training modality that allows successful performance with more external load may be desirable. Resistance training load is assessed via a dynamic maximal strength test, commonly 1 Repetition Max (1RM). It is not known whether exercises can be performed with higher 1RM during traditional free-weight or landmine barbell exercises. To directly compare 1RM among landmine and free-weight exercises, the investigative team will recruit experienced trainees, familiarize them with free-weight and landmine-barbell versions of common exercises, then assess the 1RM of each exercise for each modality. The second aim of the research is to develop an equation to allow conversion between 1RM landmine barbell and free-weight exercises. The findings will help to inform practices for selecting resistance training modalities and assigning training loads in athletics, fitness, and rehabilitation.

Applicant: Merrick Lincoln

Title: Landmine Exercise Load Quantification Procedure: a comparative reliability study

Period of Study: January 13, 2020 – May 2, 2020

Proposal Abstract: Landmine barbell exercises are used in performance-training and rehabilitation settings. Landmine exercise are performed with a barbell positioned with one end stationary. The user lifts the free end of barbell, thereby moving a load (resistance/weight) in the form of a barbell-lever system. The loading characteristics of a landmine exercises are distinct from similar exercises performed in traditional free-weight fashion. The load encountered during landmine exercises is directly related to the angle of the barbell and other features. Despite the growing popularity of Landmine Exercises, no method of quantifying the load has been described in the literature. Quantification of load during exercise is needed to track progress and training volume, inform comparisons between exercises and between athletes, and facilitate collection of objective data in sports science research. The proposed project will describe mathematical formulae for calculation of loading during landmine exercise. The construct-related validity of the several mathematical formulae will be described, and the reliability properties of procedures will be experimentally determined. Specifically, the project will describe three measurement methods for collecting the data required to calculate the load of a landmine exercise. The investigative team will test the intra-rater and inter-rater reliability of each. Student researchers will be afforded opportunity to apply basic science (physics and trigonometry) and specific clinical laboratory skills to the project. Moreover, students will have the opportunity to collect and disseminate novel and timely evidence to professionals in sports science fields.

Applicant: Christine Pacewicz

Tile: Reducing Burnout in Athletic Trainers

Submitted: October 2020

Abstract: Burnout is a salient psychological health concern for working professionals. The salience of this health concern became more evident after the World Health Organization (WHO) named burnout a “mental health phenomenon in the work context” in 2019. Vulnerability to burnout increases in contexts that are people oriented because of the demands and responsibilities of these professions, including athletic training. Research suggests that as many as 30% of athletic trainers (ATs) experience some level of burnout in their profession. Because of this, it is necessary to understand how to decrease vulnerability to burnout in ATs. Thus, a series of projects are proposed. The first project will (a) examine if physical activity (i.e., frequency, duration, type, and intensity) predicts perceived burnout in ATs and (b) examine if physical activity changes the strength of the relationship between stress and burnout in ATs. Students will work with the mentor to collect data, analyze data, and interpret findings. The second project will be grounded in the Theory of Planned Behavior and examine (a) if intentions to exercise predict actual exercise behaviors of athletic trainers and (b) if exercise behaviors change burnout perceptions across time. This project will be a two time point design. Students will work with the mentor on all aspects of the project (i.e., method, data collection, data analysis, and interpretation of findings). Mentorship will occur via virtual or face-to-face meetings, discussions, and training sessions. Anticipated outcomes include student presentations and preliminary knowledge to conceptualize interventions aimed at reducing or preventing burnout in athletic trainers and other healthcare workers.

Applicant: Taylor Rowley

Title: Time Perceptions of High Intensity Interval Training

Submitted: October 2020

Abstract: Perceived lack of time is the most common barrier to exercise for adults in the United States. High Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) is an exercise modality that reduces time commitment due to the low exercise volume. However, as HIIT protocols evolve, the time benefit is reduced as exercise sessions reach upwards of 30- minutes. The purpose of this study will be to determine if the perception of time differs between a traditional bout of aerobic exercise compared to a time-matched HIIT session. Students involved in this study will start at the beginning, learning how a research project is formed, the steps required to start a project, play an active role in the data collection, and formal dissemination of results.

Applicant:  Rebecca Schlaff

Title: Evaluation of a postpartum physical and mental health survey

Submitted: October 2018

Proposal Abstract: Postpartum depression, a clinically diagnosable mental health disease, is a significant mental health disorder that impacts women, their children, and families. Depressive symptoms are common after childbirth, and due in part to the significant body changes occurring during pregnancy and postpartum. Previously published behavioral interventions during pregnancy (promoting physical activity and/or nutrition) have neglected to include targeted mental health components/assessments, and consider the impact of physical health behaviors (i.e. physical activity and dietary behaviors) on postpartum mental health. An internet-based survey was recently implemented, which assessed the aforementioned factors in a sample of postpartum women. Data are ready to be downloaded, cleaned and analyzed so that presentations and publications may be prepared. As a result, the student funded by this grant will have the opportunity to 1) learn how to locate, interpret and synthesize peer-reviewed literature and formulate testable hypotheses, 2) understand basic principles in data management and analysis, and 3) learn to communicate findings scientifically by publishing a (undergraduate student first author) paper in a peer-reviewed journal and present at a conference.

Applicant:  Rebecca Schlaff

Title:  Examining interactions between mental and physical health during pregnancy and postpartum.

Submitted: October 2017

Project Abstract:  Postpartum depression, a clinically diagnosable mental health disease, is a significant mental health disorder that impacts women, their children, and families. Depressive symptoms are common after childbirth, due in part to the significant body changes occurring during pregnancy and postpartum. Previously published behavioral interventions during pregnancy (promoting physical activity and/or nutrition) have neglected to include targeted mental health components, and consider the impact of physical health behaviors (i.e. physical activity, dietary behaviors, frequent weight monitoring) on postpartum mental health (i.e. postpartum depression, body image, and body dissatisfaction). If interventions designed for pregnant women are to be maximally beneficial and maximize health outcomes, they should aim to incorporate elements that, ultimately, improve both physical and mental health through pregnancy, into the postpartum period. This application proposes methods to add to and strengthen a current behavioral pregnancy physical activity and nutrition intervention: 1) inclusion of mental health components and assessment of mental health within the intervention and 2) expansion of active intervention to the postpartum period. The data will be used for publications, presentations, an application for external funding, and to add knowledge to the field to help pregnant women at this vulnerable time of their life. Student researchers will have the opportunity to lead/assist in participant recruitment, focus group facilitation and evaluation, and intervention development.

Applicant: Rebecca Schlaff

Title: Expanding Community-based Research to Target Postpartum and Mental Health Outcomes

Submitted: October 2016

Proposal Abstract: Postpartum depression, a clinically diagnosable mental health disease, is a significant mental health disorder that impacts women, their children, and families. Depressive symptoms are common after childbirth, and due in part to the significant body changes occurring during pregnancy and postpartum. Previously published behavioral interventions during pregnancy (promoting physical activity and/or nutrition) have neglected to include targeted mental health components, and consider the impact of physical health behaviors (i.e. physical activity, dietary behaviors, frequent weight monitoring) on postpartum mental health (i.e. postpartum depression, body image, and body dissatisfaction). If interventions designed for pregnant women are to be maximally beneficial and maximize health outcomes, they should aim to incorporate elements that, ultimately, improve both physical and mental health through pregnancy, into the postpartum period. This application proposes methods to add to and strengthen a current behavioral pregnancy physical activity and nutrition intervention: 1) inclusion of mental health components and assessment of mental health within the intervention, 2) expansion of active intervention to the postpartum period, and 3) intervention delivery within the clinic setting. The data will be used for publications, presentations, an application for external funding, and add knowledge to the field to help pregnant women at this vulnerable time of their life. Student researchers will have the opportunity to lead/assist in participant recruitment, focus group facilitation and evaluation, community outreach with local OB/GYN clinics, and intervention development.

Applicant: Rebecca Schlaff

Title: Understanding the Barriers to and Physical Activity Program Needs of Pregnant Women

Submitted: March 2015

Project Abstract: A majority of pregnant women do not meet physical activity recommendations, despite the efficacy of physical activity preventing many pregnancy complications. Pregnant women may encounter a number of unique barriers to physical activity participation, and desire specific types of physical activity programs. There is a need for evidence-based physical activity programs among pregnant women. In order to develop interventions that can successfully increase physical activity in this population, barriers and program needs should be considered. Therefore, the purpose of this study is to (1) conduct focus groups in a sample of pregnant women in an effort to better understand their barriers to physical activity and what types of physical activity programs they desire, (2) investigate currently existing evidenced-based physical activity interventions for pregnant women, and (3) develop an evidence-based, behavioral physical activity intervention for pregnant women (based also upon focus group findings) that can be implemented in future studies. Increasing physical activity among large groups of pregnant women, whether at the regional or state-level, has the potential to have a significant impact on population health. Students will have the opportunity to assist in participant recruitment, focus group facilitation and evaluation, and intervention development.

Applicant: Rebecca Schlaff

Title: Evaluation of a lifestyle intervention to improve health behaviors among older adults

Submitted: March 2015

Project Abstract: Although physical activity has been found to be associated with numerous health benefits, nearly half of all Americans do not meet recommendations. While there are many barriers to participation in regular physical activity, older adults appear to have a particularly difficult time. Providing opportunities for physical activity programs and teaching individuals the behaviors and skills necessary to incorporate physical activity into their daily life may be an effective means for improving health status. Therefore the purpose of this randomized controlled trial is to implement and evaluate a 12-week, behavioral, group-based physical activity intervention targeting older adults. Participants (n=90) will be randomized to a physical activity or healthy eating program and will attend 12 weekly, group-based intervention sessions. Each week will focus on a behavior/skill that will assist participants in changing their physical activity or eating behaviors (e.g. self-monitoring, social support, goal setting). Demographics, physical measures, physical activity, dietary behaviors, and potential mediators of change (e.g. social support, self-efficacy) will be measured at baseline and upon completion of the program (i.e. at 12 weeks). Students will have the opportunity to assist in intervention delivery, data collection, and participate in the evaluation and dissemination of findings.

Applicant:  Mark Giesler

Title: “I Have Served to Tell”: A Qualitative Study of Veterans’ Experiences in the Living Library Project

Submitted: October 2018

Proposal Abstract: Founded in 2000 in Denmark, the Human Library phenomenon has spread worldwide. At Human Library events, “readers” (visitors) check out “books” (individuals who have experienced oppression and/or marginalization) through engaging in direct conversation with them. When specific populations are featured as books, the events are re-dubbed “Living Libraries.” This faculty-led, student-assisted qualitative research project will assess the experiences of military veteran “books” who participate in SVSU’s “Special Collections” Living Library, slated to be held on campus in May 2019 as part of a Memorial Day commemoration sponsored by SVSU’s Military Student Affairs Office. Given the popularity of Human Libraries, it is incumbent upon researchers to explore the intended and unintended benefits and possible challenges of individuals who share their stories in such events, a gap in the literature that this study purports to address.

Applicant: Mark Giesler

Title: From Concern to Care and Back Again: An Assessment of Michigan Public Libraries' Response to Homeless Patrons

Submitted: March 2015

Project Abstract: Using case study qualitative methodology, this study explores how staff and administrators from 10 urban-area Michigan public libraries perceive their relationships with homeless patrons. Participant narratives are triangulated with policy/procedure manuals and directives from the libraries. Recommendations for how public libraries can more effectively collaborate with formal social services agencies are provided. Student researchers will contribute to the study in the following ways: conceptual formulation of the study, the IRB application process, the literature review, the sample selection method, completion of an interview protocol, conducting semi-structured, in-depth interviews, and data analysis. Ultimately, the project will allow students to experience all aspects of qualitative field research firsthand in the framework of a pilot study.