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Building Brains and Relationships Beginning from Birth: Exploring Multilingual Parents\u27 Experiences with a Babies Initiative Family-School Partnership
Get PDFThis 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
Get PDFStudent 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
Get PDFThe 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
Get PDFPhilanthropy 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
Get PDFThe 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
Get PDFBackground: 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
Case Report: When Confusion Signals a Crisis: Rethinking the Diagnosis of Meningitis in Geriatric Sepsis
Get PDFWe report the case of an 88-year-old female who presented with altered mental status, initially suspected to have urosepsis but ultimately diagnosed with streptococcal meningitis. The patient had a history of lethargy and anorexia over the past few days and was found to have sepsis. Despite initial focus on urosepsis, blood cultures revealed Streptococcus, and cerebrospinal fluid analysis confirmed bacterial meningitis. This case highlights the potential for meningitis to be overlooked in elderly patients with suspected sepsis, underscoring the importance of broad diagnostic considerations and early intervention. This case highlights the importance of considering meningitis in elderly patients presenting with altered mental status and the need for early sepsis management, including empiric antibiotic therapy
THE ELECTRONIC MUSICIAN PROJECT: THE INTERACTION OF LIVE-LOOPING, SAMPLING AND TURNTABLISM IN THE LIVE JAZZ ENSEMBLE SETTING
No full textThis dissertation will explore an unknown territory of integrating live-looping, sampling and turntablism with live jazz ensembles. By examining the rich history of each art-form, it will expose how their origins are relevant to this concept. Due to intertwining jazz with three technology-based mediums, the timeline of jazz audio recording will also be explored. To rehearse this method, one electronic musician was included with three jazz ensembles of differing orchestrations. He used a music software program called Ableton Live and an external MIDI drum pad controller to sync with the band. This gave him access to their audio, so he was able to record them live. Once recorded, he manipulated their sampled audio with loops and audio effects for improvisation. He also functioned as accompaniment for the band during certain sections of pieces. The electronic musician was given a scored part, just as any other acoustic performer in the band would receive. A notation system was created for this practice by combining Western music notation with graphic symbols. This dissertation will reflect on the creative and technological experiences of rehearsing this new approach of combining jazz with electronics. It concludes with a discussion between the author and the electronic musician, which gives personal insight to its approach, conflicts, resolutions, and potential
Cannabinoid Hyperemesis Syndrome Induced Pneumomediastinum in an Adolescent
Get PDFCannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome (CHS) is a condition characterized by cyclic episodes of severe nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain in individuals with chronic cannabis use. Despite its increasing recognition, CHS remains underdiagnosed, particularly in adolescents, and can be associated with a range of complications, some of which are potentially life-threatening. One such complication is spontaneous pneumomediastinum (SPM), a rare but serious condition where air accumulates in the mediastinum without any clear traumatic cause. Although SPM is typically benign, it can present with significant respiratory distress and requires prompt identification and management. Here we present the case of an 18-year-old patient with spontaneous pneumomediastinum (SPM) secondary to cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome (CHS). This case highlights the uncommon but critical association between CHS and SPM, emphasizing the importance of considering CHS in young patients with chronic cannabis use and understanding the potential for serious complications in these cases
Pain Management in Pregnant Women with Opioid Use Disorder: A Systematic Review
Get PDFBackground: The prevalence of opioid use disorder (OUD) among pregnant individuals has risen significantly, posing challenges in managing labor and postpartum pain. Factors such as opioid tolerance, opioid-induced hyperalgesia, and concerns about relapse complicate analgesic strategies. Despite these complexities, evidence-based guidelines for pain management in this population remain limited.
Hypothesis: Pregnant women with OUD experience disparities in pain management during labor and postpartum periods, leading to suboptimal outcomes.
Methods: A systematic review was conducted, analyzing peer-reviewed studies from databases including PubMed and Embase. Inclusion criteria encompassed studies focusing on pain management in pregnant women with OUD. Data extraction focused on pain scores, analgesic use, patient and provider perspectives, and clinical outcomes.
Results:
·Women with OUD reported higher pain scores postpartum compared to those without OUD.
·Patients expressed concerns about inadequate pain control and limited analgesia options.
·Providers acknowledged challenges in balancing effective pain management with the risk of relapse. ·Women maintained on buprenorphine experienced more pain and required more analgesics after C-sections ·A lack of standardized protocols for managing pain in this population was evident.
Conclusion: To enhance pain management strategies for pregnant women with OUD, future research and clinical efforts should focus on development of evidence-based guidelines, provider education and training, and assessment of non-opioid analgesics