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The Characterization and Detection of Human Associated Pathogens Within Aquatic Sediments in Florida
No full textThalassogenic diseases, infectious diseases caused by wastewater pollution of marine environments, have been plaguing the world for generations. Every millimeter of raw wastewater may carry millions of potentially pathogenic microorganisms. Water monitoring techniques generally rely on the sole detection of fecal indicator bacteria, while overlooking the significance of microbial data, especially via aquatic sediment. It is known that aquatic sediment can provide the ideal environment for pathogenic microorganisms to survive in. Using next-generation sequencing methods, amplifying the V4 region of the 16S rRNA gene, this study aimed to achieve the following objectives: 1) characterize the microbiome of the sediment in the Himmarshee Canal located in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, 2) comparatively analyze any microbial differences found in the compositions between two years, and 3) examine any potentially pathogenic microorganisms found. Additionally, the presence of a segment of the 16S rRNA gene that is a microbial marker for human fecal matter (HF183), will be investigated. It was found that the microbial composition was different between years and by collection sites. The category site was found to be significant regarding the inverse Simpson’s diversity index. Salinity was found to significantly influence microbial communities, while SIMPER analysis revealed that Sulfurovum could also be playing a role in establishing differences. Potential pathogens were identified in both years. Interestingly, HF183 was not detected, even though other Bacteroides sequences were. This study is the first of its kind in testing the presence of HF183 in aquatic sediment in South Florida and hopes to improve water quality surveillance
Assessing the Assessors: A Study of Teachers\u27 Assessment Knowledge for DHH Students
No full textThis descriptive study examines Teachers of the Deafs’ (TODs) self-reported assessment knowledge, classroom practices, and preparation experiences. Using a survey based on the Pedagogical Content Knowledge (PKC) framework, we collected data from 89 certified TODs across the United States. Results indicate that while TODs understand the importance of assessment, many report inadequate preparation from their teacher training programs and rely primarily on on-the-job learning. Participants expressed concerns about the limited availability of appropriate assessments for Deaf and Hard of Hearing (DHH) students and challenges in adapting existing assessment tools. The findings highlight a need for enhanced assessment training in teacher preparation programs and specialized professional development opportunities to better equip TODs to effectively evaluate and support DHH students\u27 diverse learning needs
Compromiso Laboral y su Impacto en la Calidad y Continuidad de Servicios de un Laboratorio Clínico en Puerto Rico
No full textEl propósito de estudio fue determinar el nivel de compromiso laboral de los empleados de un laboratorio clínico en la zona metropolitana de Puerto Rico. Se utilizó un cuestionario dirigido a conocer el compromiso laboral y la continuidad de los servicios en medio de la Pandemia causada por el COVID-19. Los participantes realizaron el mismo y luego fue evaluado mediante estadística descriptiva. El cuestionario se midió utilizando la escala Likert. La muestra estuvo compuesta por 32 empleados de laboratorios clínicos. El cuestionario se midió utilizando la escala Likert. Se empleó una metodología cuantitativa para la recolección y el análisis de los datos.
Los resultados evidenciaron que la mayoría de los participantes perciben altos niveles de continuidad y calidad en los servicios, así como en los recursos laborales disponibles. Asimismo, se encontró que a medida que aumenta el compromiso organizacional de los empleados, también aumenta su percepción sobre la continuidad y calidad en los servicios que ofrecen.
Este estudio ofrece un punto de referencia valioso para otras instituciones de salud con empleados en funciones similares, ya que permite identificar aquellos con un alto sentido de compromiso laboral. En consecuencia, las organizaciones pueden optimizar la gestión de su capital humano y contar con los recursos más comprometidos y capaces para enfrentar los retos actuales y futuros del sector de salud
Intergenerational Mentorship: A Strategic Response to Aging Membership and Sustainability in the Seventh-Day Adventist Church
No full textIntergenerational Mentorship: A Strategic Response to Aging Membership and Sustainability in the Seventh-day Adventist (SDA) Church. Carla Drake Walker, 2025. Strategic Research Project, Nova Southeastern University, Abraham S. Fischler College of Education and School of Criminal Justice. Keywords: Aging membership, church growth, intergenerational mentorship, leadership development, Seventh-day Adventist, and sustainability.
This strategic research project examined the urgent challenges posed by an aging membership within the SDA Church and aimed to uncover sustainable approaches to secure its long-term health and mission. By focusing on the intersection of leadership development and intergenerational mentorship, the study designed a targeted plan that addressed current needs and future growth.
This Strategic Research Project utilized a mixed methods framework to explore and address challenges related to leadership development and youth engagement within the SDA Church. The quantitative phase incorporated Internal and External Factor Evaluation (IFE/EFE) matrices to determine the relative importance of 40 key factors by assigning weighted scores. These insights guided the use of the Quantitative Strategic Planning Matrix (QSPM), which allowed for an evidence-based comparison of strategy options based on how effectively they aligned with SWOT analysis results.
The qualitative aspect featured a thorough literature review that informed each stage of the project, from identifying the central issue to assessing potential strategic responses. Key findings revealed pressing concerns, including a predominantly older congregation, leadership succession gaps, and declining youth participation. To address these issues, the project presented a strategic action plan centered on intergenerational mentorship. This plan outlined a theologically grounded and leadership-informed curriculum, formal mentor-mentee training, and routine checkpoints for monitoring progress and maintaining accountability.
The proposed initiative aimed to develop future leaders, strengthen relationships across age groups, and foster greater youth involvement, laying the groundwork for long-term growth and continued mission effectiveness. Findings suggested that weaving mentorship into the church’s culture could foster deeper belonging, spiritual maturity, and sustained engagement across age groups. Recommendations called for leadership to prioritize mentorship efforts, dedicate resources for continued development, and ensure alignment with the church’s overarching mission
Diseño de Plan Estratégico para la Retención Docente en Programas de Inmersión en Maryland
No full textResumen Ejecutivo
Diseño de Plan Estratégico para la Retención Docente en Programas de Inmersión en Maryland. Marimar Santiago-Almodóvar, 2025: Proyecto de Investigación Estratégica, Nova Southeastern University, Abraham S. Fischler College of Education and School of Criminal Justice. Palabras clave: teacher retention, mentoring, dual immersion, professional development.
Este proyecto de investigación estratégica tiene como objetivo atender la problemática de la alta rotación de maestros internacionales en OFSIS, una escuela de inmersión dual en el estado de Maryland. El problema de investigación identificado fue la falta de apoyo profesional, cultural y pedagógico que enfrentan los maestros internacionales, lo que provoca agotamiento, desmotivación y renuncias prematuras. La solución seleccionada para mitigar este desafío fue implementar un programa de mentoría estructurado y diferenciado, enfocado en ofrecer acompañamiento continuo y desarrollo profesional contextualizado.
El plan de acción incluye seis pasos fundamentales: (1) diagnóstico de necesidades del personal docente; (2) selección y capacitación de mentores por áreas clave (español, inglés y matemáticas); (3) planificación de sesiones de mentoría individual y grupal; (4) seguimiento del progreso de los maestros mediante observaciones y reuniones periódicas; (5) evaluación de resultados e impacto en la retención docente; y (6) fortalecimiento de las comunidades profesionales de aprendizaje (PLC) dentro de la escuela.
Este proceso busca no solo reducir la rotación docente, sino también mejorar el clima laboral, elevar la calidad de la enseñanza y fomentar el compromiso profesional. Se recomienda continuar ajustando el programa basado en las necesidades emergentes del personal, mantener una comunicación abierta con los maestros, e incorporar incentivos formales como certificaciones, créditos académicos u otros beneficios para promover la participación sostenida. Asimismo, se sugiere explorar la replicación del modelo en otras escuelas con programas similares en Maryland u otros estados
Plan Estratégico para la Participación del Trabajador Social en el Desarrollo de Planes de Modificación de Conducta
No full textPlan Estratégico para la Participación del Trabajador Social en el Desarrollo de Planes de Modificación de Conducta. Samuel Cotto Ramírez, 2025: Proyecto de Investigación Estratégica, Nova Southeastern University, Abraham S. Fischler College of Education and School of Criminal Justice. Palabras clave: social worker, special education, behavior modification plans, behavioral problems
El propósito principal de este proyecto de investigación estratégica fue diseñar un plan para fomentar la participación activa del trabajador social en la elaboración de planes de modificación de conducta para estudiantes de educación especial en una escuela superior vocacional de Mayagüez, Puerto Rico. Esta iniciativa busca atender las necesidades conductuales desde un enfoque multidisciplinario, promoviendo el desarrollo emocional y académico del estudiantado.
El problema identificado, dentro del análisis FODA, es el incumplimiento de tareas por parte del personal, lo cual limita la efectividad en el seguimiento y documentación de las intervenciones conductuales requeridas. Como solución final, se seleccionó la implementación de informes semanales obligatorios de los planes de modificación de conducta, elaborados por los trabajadores sociales escolares. Esta alternativa promueve rendición de cuentas, seguimiento continuo, y permite ajustes estratégicos para atender mejor las necesidades del estudiantado.
El plan de acción diseñado busca establecer un marco claro y sistemático para fortalecer la participación de los trabajadores sociales en la elaboración de planes de modificación de conducta dentro de las escuelas públicas de Puerto Rico. Este plan propone una serie de pasos concretos que incluyen la capacitación especializada del personal, la creación de protocolos de intervención conductual y la implementación de un sistema de monitoreo y evaluación. Uno de los aspectos centrales es garantizar que los trabajadores sociales cuenten con las herramientas teóricas y prácticas necesarias para identificar, analizar y responder de forma efectiva a los patrones de conducta que afectan el rendimiento académico y la integración social de los estudiantes. Para lograr esto, se establece un cronograma detallado con responsabilidades específicas para los distintos actores escolares, así como los recursos humanos y materiales necesarios para ejecutar las estrategias propuestas.
Como recomendación final, se propone que el Departamento de Educación de Puerto Rico institucionalice un programa de formación continua dirigido específicamente a los trabajadores sociales escolares, enfocado en el desarrollo, implementación y seguimiento de planes de modificación de conducta. Esta formación debe estar basada en modelos teóricos validados, como el análisis de conducta aplicada (ABA) y la terapia cognitivo-conductual, adaptados al contexto escolar puertorriqueño. El desarrollo de este proyecto estratégico ha permitido evidenciar la necesidad urgente de integrar de manera sistemática a los trabajadores sociales escolares en el diseño y ejecución de planes de modificación de conducta, especialmente en contextos donde existe una alta matrícula de estudiantes de educación especial
Planeación Estratégica: Transición a la Modalidad Virtual Encaminado a Fortalecer la Competencia en Pro del Crecimiento en una Institución de Educación Vocacional de Estética en Puerto Rico
No full textPlaneación Estratégica: Transición a la modalidad virtual para fortalecer la competencia en pro del crecimiento, en una institución de educación vocacional de estética en Puerto Rico. Glenda L. Alicea Rodríguez, 2025: Proyecto de Investigación Estratégica, Nova Southeastern University, Abraham S. Fischler College of Education and School of Criminal Justice. Palabras claves: academic institution, esthetic, virtual education, virtual modality, and virtual platform.
Este proyecto de investigación estratégica fue diseñado con el propósito de abordar la competencia intensa sin control bajo la modalidad virtual, la cual afecta el crecimiento de una institución de educación vocacional de Estética en Puerto Rico. En la actualidad, la oferta de cursos tanto formales como informales en el área de estética ha aumentado considerablemente, especialmente en modalidad virtual, lo que genera una fuerte competencia para las instituciones locales. Además, los cursos ofrecidos, con precios más bajos y programas más cortos, afectan directamente la matrícula local, creando una presión competitiva significativa en el mercado.
La investigación se llevó a cabo en ocho etapas, comenzando con un análisis FODA para identificar las fortalezas, debilidades, oportunidades y amenazas de la institución. En la segunda etapa, se identificó el problema central de la falta de transición efectiva a la modalidad virtual. Tras evaluar diversas soluciones, se seleccionó la implementación de un entorno virtual innovador como la estrategia más efectiva. Esta solución fue validada mediante la Matriz Cuantitativa de la Planeación Estratégica (MCPE), obteniendo la mayor puntuación en términos de efectividad.
El plan de acción incluyó la capacitación del talento humano, el diseño de contenido digital interactivo y el pilotaje del entorno virtual. Los resultados obtenidos demostraron que la transición a la virtualidad fortalece la competitividad de la institución, mejorando la experiencia educativa. Se recomienda incorporar herramientas interactivas como simulaciones, foros y videoconferencias, para enriquecer el proceso de enseñanza y aprendizaje
Navigating The Path: Barriers and Motivators for Physical Therapy Students Pursuing Residency Programs or Board Certification
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Introduction: While the number of physical therapists (PTs) pursuing post-graduate education has increased since the inception of residency programs, the volume of new Doctor of Physical Therapy graduates applying for residency training has remained low. Therefore, the purpose of this study is to examine the barriers and motivations of PT students in their pursuit of PT residency programs and board certification. Review of the Literature: The American Physical Therapy Association provides licensed PTs with a wide range of opportunities to advance their knowledge through residency programs and board certification.The decision to pursue these opportunities is left to each individual PT and is influenced by various factors. With the low frequency of residency completion and board certification by PTs, there is a need for an in-depth understanding of the factors that influence the pursuit of such programs and certifications. Subjects: Two hundred thirteen (213) participants completed the survey and were included for analysis. Methods: An electronic survey assessed students’ demographics, barriers and motivators to pursuing a PT residency program or board certification, clinical instructor training, self-reported intent of pursuing residency training or board certification, and self-rated importance of residency program characteristics. Descriptive statistics and Monte Carlo Fisher Exact Tests were used. Results: The greatest barrier to pursuing a residency program or board certification was financial constraints (47.4%), while the greatest motivator was opportunities for professional development (45.5%). The majority of students (52.6%) were at least somewhat likely to pursue a residency program, while 81.2% were at least somewhat likely to pursue specialty board certification. There was an association between having a faculty member with board certification and students’ self-reported intent of pursuing board certification (p=0.009). Gender was also associated with self-reported intent of pursuing board certification with women reporting greater intent than men (p=0.001). Conclusion & Discussion: With financial constraints reported as the greatest barrier to the pursuit of PT residency programs or board certification, making these opportunities more affordable should be prioritized. Furthermore, having faculty members with specialty board certification may increase PT students’ motivation to pursue board certification in the future
Developing Empathy in Paramedic Students Using Didactic and Deliberate Practice Education Programs: A Mixed-Methods Study
No full textPurpose: Paramedics often attend to patients presenting with a mental illness, however research suggests paramedics have difficulties when attending to this patient cohort. Conversely, clinical psychologists receive training that focuses on developing strong therapeutic relationships with their patients through the use of empathy. As research has highlighted that paramedic students are known to demonstrate low levels of empathy, this study aimed to investigate the utility of two education methods used in clinical psychology training, didactic teaching and deliberate practice (DP), to develop the skill of empathy in paramedic students. Method: Students currently enrolled in an Australian paramedic university degree were recruited to participate. Participants (n = 32) were randomly allocated to one of two education programs aimed to develop their empathy: didactic teaching or DP. Participant’s empathy scores were measured before and after participation in the education programs via online simulation activities. Pre-post empathy scores were analysed using a 2x2 mixed ANOVA. A subset of participants also participated in interviews outlining their experience of the education programs and main learnings. Results: Quantitative results demonstrated that participants allocated to either empathy education program showed significantly higher levels of empathy post the education programs. However, there was no significant difference in the overall improvements in empathy scores associated with either education program. Qualitative analysis of interview data revealed different themes for each education program. Interviews with participants from the didactic education program revealed two themes: Flexibility over structure and Empathy is treatment. Interviews with participants from the DP education program revealed two themes: Confronting but beneficial and A slower, more human approach. Conclusion: Paramedic student’s empathy can be developed with short, targeted education programs using education methods borrowed from clinical psychology training. This better equips paramedic students to provide better patient care to those presenting with a mental illness. Universities and ambulance services may look to incorporate empathy training for paramedic students and qualified paramedics
Effectiveness of the G-T Method in EFL Monolingual Adult Classes at Private Institutes in the City of Puerto Plata, D.R
No full textThe goal of this research is to determine the effectiveness of Grammar -Translation Method on EFL adult learners. The sample of this investigation was based on 30 graduated students as a universe and a sample of 15 which represent the 50% in which 9 of them were female who represent the 60% and 6 male who represent the 40% from Impact Languages Institute. The research used random sampling process to lead this investigation. The findings of this research indicated that there is a positive Correlation between the usage of Grammar Translation Method and both female and male EFL learners. This research concluded that both female and male EFL adult learners who were taught by using Grammar Translation Method progressed notably in grammar in which they achieved great self-confidence. This study recommends that further future research be led toward this investigation to overcome problems with foreign language especially in grammar. Keywords: Grammar, EFL adult learners, effectiveness, advantage, private educatio