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Examining the Relationship Between Nutritional Access and Childhood Obesity in Low-Resource South Jersey Communities
Full text linkBACKGROUND: Childhood obesity is defined as a child considered to have obesity when their body mass index falls in the top 5% compared to other children of the same age and gender. Unhealthy eating habits formed during childhood have been associated with diseases such as obesity and diabetes. We aim to examine the relationship between childhood obesity and barriers to optimal nutrition in our local South Jersey community.
METHODS: We conducted a literature review through Google, Google Scholar, and PubMed utilizing the key terms, “low socioeconomic status (SES),” “Childhood obesity in NJ,” “Nutritional Intervention,” and “Health Risks.”
RESULTS: Our study determined that the percentage of overweight and obese children in Camden, Trenton, and Vineland is higher than national data from NHANES. Moreover, all students in Camden, NJ public schools exceed the U.S. national average for childhood obesity percentages. Critically, most parents in Camden, NJ do not think their child is overweight or obese when asked about their child’s weight status.
CONCLUSION: This literature review demonstrates that the lack of acceptance from parents poses a barrier to acknowledging the existence of the problem and accepting any offered help. Interventions should be aimed at designing a comprehensive nutrition intervention program to address dietary challenges like access to fresh fruits and vegetables and ways to incorporate them into daily meals planning to reduce childhood obesity rates. One of the potential programs can help create a partner buddy program where high schoolers educate middle schoolers about nutrition using fresh produce
Pancreatic Ascites: Update on Diagnosis and Management
Full text linkPancreatic ascites is a rare condition characterized by the accumulation of high-amylase ascitic fluid in the peritoneal cavity. This condition is often associated with chronic pancreatitis, pancreatic trauma, or pseudocyst rupture. Because of its rarity and ill-defined clinical presentation, pancreatic ascites is often a diagnostic and therapeutic challenge in clinical practice. The current diagnostic criteria include an amylase level \u3e1000 mg/dL, a protein level \u3e3 g/dL, and a serum ascites albumin gradient \u3c 1.1 g/dL. The clinical features vary, but may include progressive abdominal distension, diffuse abdominal pain, weight loss and peritonitis. The management of pancreatic ascites remains controversial, and there is no consensus regarding the optimal approach. Conservative medical management, which includes nutritional support, pain control, therapeutic paracentesis and the use of somatostatin analogs, has been associated with a high failure rate and significant morbidity. Interventional therapies, such as surgery and endoscopic transpapillary stenting, have shown more promising outcomes. However, the choice between these methods is still debated, with some advocating for endoscopic approaches, because of their minimally invasive nature and reduced morbidity compared with surgical options. Endoscopic approaches remain underutilized in practice, probably because of the need for repeated interventions, the potential risks associated with endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography, or a lack of skilled personnel. Although they show significant perioperative morbidity and mortality, surgical options provide definitive resolution of pancreatic ascites. Herein, we provide an updated review of pancreatic ascites, highlighting advances in diagnostic techniques and therapeutic approaches, and summarizing insights from recent clinical cases and retrospective studies
HEAT PUMPS AND SUSTAINABLE BUILDING OPERATIONS: AN ANALYSIS OF ENERGY EFFICIENCY, EMISSIONS, AND LIFE CYCLE COSTS
Full text linkHeating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems are a major contributor to energy demand. Heat pump technologies, particularly Ground Source Heat Pumps (GSHPs) and Air Source Heat Pumps (ASHPs), have emerged as key solutions to reduce energy use worldwide. However, their adoption is challenged by economic, operational, and environmental trade-offs. This dissertation develops a comprehensive framework for evaluating the energy efficiency, lifecycle emissions, and cost-effectiveness of GSHP and ASHP systems in sustainable building operations. Through advanced energy modeling, lifecycle assessments (LCA), and lifecycle cost (LCC) analyses, this research provides data-driven insights to optimize heat pump system selection. This study is structured around five interrelated research papers, each addressing a critical aspect of heat pump performance and implementation. The first paper validates energy simulation models by assessing the accuracy of peak demand estimates for office buildings using eQUEST, ensuring the reliability of subsequent analyses. The second paper evaluates the energy and emissions savings potential of GSHP and ASHP systems when integrated with photovoltaic (PV) panels, highlighting GSHPs’ long-term sustainability advantages despite higher installation costs. The third paper conducts a comprehensive LCA of heat pump technologies, quantifying embodied carbon emissions and their impact on long-term sustainability. The fourth paper presents an economic and operational analysis of GSHP and ASHP systems across various building scenarios, identifying cost trade-offs, payback periods, and financial feasibility. The fifth paper expands on these findings by developing a generalized decision-making framework that considers heating system selection based on cost, emissions, and energy efficiency. The findings indicate that GSHPs consistently outperform ASHPs in terms of energy efficiency and emissions reduction, particularly in heating-dominant climates. However, high capital costs remain a significant barrier to widespread GSHP adoption. ASHPs, while more cost-effective and easier to retrofit, exhibit performance degradation in extreme temperatures and contribute to higher peak electricity demand. Integrating PV with heat pumps enhances sustainability by reducing grid dependence, though seasonal energy mismatches present a challenge. Economic analyses highlight that ASHPs are more viable for medium-scale applications, but scaling advantages might favor GSHPs for large buildings or clusters of buildings. This dissertation culminates in the development of a generalized decision-making framework for selecting optimal heating systems based on cost, energy performance, and environmental impact. By integrating real-world operational conditions, system scalability, and embodied carbon considerations, the framework serves as a practical tool for engineers, policymakers, and building owners. These findings contribute to the broader goal of sustainable building operations, providing actionable insights for selecting HVAC systems that will improve operations and reduce the impact of the built environment
The Role Full-Time Faculty Play in Retaining Students with New Initiatives Implemented by the Administration: A Qualitative Case Study
Full text linkThis qualitative study explored the role full-time faculty play in supporting student retention within the context of new administrative initiatives at a New Jersey community college. Grounded in the framework of faculty as institutional agents, the research investigated how faculty understood their role, engaged with retention efforts, and perceived their alignment with institutional goals. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews with full-time faculty involved in or impacted by retention initiatives. Thematic analysis revealed that while faculty were committed to student success, they experienced limited involvement in the development and communication of these initiatives. Participants expressed a need for consistent communication, improved collaboration, and better support structures that align faculty work with broader administrative initiatives. This study underscores the importance of recognizing faculty as essential partners in advancing retention goals. Findings suggest that enhancing communication and engagement between faculty and administration may strengthen morale, improve program effectiveness, and contribute to improved student outcomes
Building Brains and Relationships Beginning from Birth: Exploring Multilingual Parents\u27 Experiences with a Babies Initiative Family-School Partnership
Full text linkThis study examined multilingual families’ experiences in a family-school early literacy program during the critical period of brain development, the Phlournoy Babies Initiative (PBI). Participants included five multilingual (ML) and immigrant families who have participated in this program for multiple years. In addition, this study probed how families were applying the strategies shared during PBI sessions within the context of their culture and home environment. Sociocultural, ecological systems, and culturally responsive teaching theories formed the framework of this study. A narrative inquiry approach was applied, which provided the researcher the opportunity to share the stories and experiences of the participants. Three main data sources were utilized: semi-structured interviews, observations during two PBI sessions, and virtual home visits. The study’s findings suggested PBI encouraged ML parents to view their language and culture as assets in their parenting practices. PBI facilitators’ respect for the families’ language and culture was an important element in building trust and relationships with the parents. The materialization of relationships between the PBI facilitators and the parents was the most significant factor that motivated parents to continue to attend PBI and to apply the learned strategies within their home environment. These relationships created a sense of belonging, a community of learning, and ascertained that families’ language and culture were deemed assets for their children’s early literacy development
First-Year Experience Peer Mentors and Theory of Generativity; A Generic Qualitative Study
Full text linkStudent retention is an intricate dilemma for all institutions of higher education. While college enrollment continues to increase, degree completion rates are not keeping pace. Research shows that most students who drop out of college do so during the first year of enrollment. In an effort to address student retention during the first year and ultimately increase completion rates, colleges and universities invest significant resources in what has become known as First-Year Experience (FYE). Peer mentoring programs, in particular, are often an essential aspect of FYE programming because of the successful outcomes reported by mentees. This generic qualitative study diverges from mentee-focused data to prioritize the voices of peer mentors. It uses semi-structured interviews to elicit the direct experiences of FYE peer mentors in the Honors college at Venture University. Data was analyzed using theoretical analysis (ThA) for pre-determined themes associated with the Theory of Generativity as well as organically appearing, non-theoretical themes and patterns. The findings report that peer mentors do demonstrate significant characteristics of generativity. It also discusses three non-theoretical themes of Worry/Nerves/Safe Space, Community, and Co-mentor/Mentoring Class. Implications for future research and university practice are discussed
Expanding a Standardized Reading Program Utilizing Research-Based Literacy Practices, Culturally Responsive Teaching, and Teacher Decision Making
Full text linkThe reading achievement disparities between diverse learners and their advantaged peers has been at the forefront of education for decades (Hammond, 2015; Kelley et al., 2015; Ladson-Billings, 2006; Paschall et al., 2017; Pitre, 2014). Educational policies have attempted to close the achievement gap and address the inequitable practices school systems place on our youth (Paschall et al, 2017; Pitre, 2014). However, teachers can lead in the profession and create positive change for students’ school experiences and learning outcomes. The purpose of this action research study was to enhance the prepackaged reading program with thematic units, culturally responsive teaching, and research-based literacy practices to influence teacher-decision making, teaching practices, and student learning outcomes. The research questions focused on improving the learning environment to enhance students’ learning outcomes and increase students’ literacy motivation. It was suggested that action research promotes teacher decision making, autonomy of curriculum design, and incorporation of students’ voice in their learning. Enhancing the prepackaged reading program yielded positive results for improving professional growth as a teacher and supported diverse learners in the classroom environment. Lastly, teachers who practice action research are leaders in their classroom and school communities. Teachers have the power to be change agents to positively influence their colleagues, students, and the profession
FAITH IN TOMORROW: STRATEGIES TO INSPIRE PHILANTHROPIC SUPPORT FOR CATHOLIC SCHOOLS
Full text linkPhilanthropy plays a vital role in sustaining Catholic schools; however, the factors that motivate donors to support these institutions remain an area of ongoing inquiry. This study examines the key influences driving philanthropic giving to Catholic education, exploring the intersection of faith, personal values, institutional trust, and perceived impact on students and communities. Using a mixed-methods approach, the research incorporates survey data from 185 participants and insights from 17 focus group members to identify the primary motivations behind donor support. The findings indicate that religious commitment, personal connections to Catholic education, and belief in the school’s mission are among the strongest drivers of philanthropy. Additionally, donors are influenced by the perceived effectiveness of their contributions, their relationships with school leadership, and engagement opportunities that foster a sense of belonging. While the study highlights these influential factors, it also acknowledges limitations regarding sample size, geographic representation, and the potential for self-selection bias. Nevertheless, the findings offer valuable implications for Catholic school leaders, development professionals, and policymakers seeking to strengthen donor relationships and ensure long-term financial sustainability. By enhancing the understanding of donor motivations, this study contributes to the broader field of educational philanthropy and supports the ongoing viability of Catholic schools in a changing philanthropic landscape
Polypharmacy as a Treatment Barrier in Autism Spectrum Disorder
Full text linkThe purpose of the study is to assess the prevalence of polypharmacy in current literature in the Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) population. It is hypothesized to find patients with ASD over prescribed compared to the neurotypical counterparts
Chemical Exposures in Utero: Phthalates and Congenital Heart Defects
Full text linkBackground: Congenital heart defects (CHDs) are the most common type of birth defect. Approximately 80% of CHDs have unknown causes, and phthalates may play a contributing role. Phthalates are ubiquitous environmental chemicals used as plasticizers in a wide range of products, including cosmetics and electronic devices. After entering the body, phthalates bind to the progesterone receptor, which is necessary for fetal development. While multiple studies have explored environmental factors in CHD development, few have examined the effects of phthalates on CHDs in humans. Methods: A literature review was conducted to investigate the relationship between parental occupational phthalate exposure and the risk of CHDs. The databases PubMed and Embase were used. Results: The literature suggests a positive association between paternal occupational exposure to phthalates and an increased risk of CHDs in offspring. Maternal exposures did not demonstrate a statistically significant association. Animal studies propose mechanisms such as mitochondrial dysfunction and reduced fetal heart rate as possible pathways for cardiac developmental disruption. Discussion: Based on the results, fathers should be more actively included in reproductive health guidelines. Future studies should further investigate associations between various environmental toxins, specific types of CHDs, and other congenital anomalies. Conclusion: These findings underscore the need to expand reproductive health and environmental guidelines to reduce phthalate exposure and better protect fetal development