Digital Commons Network^™

Aadej — Keeping Pace With New Challenges And Evolving Technologies, Mali Schantz-Feld Ma, Cde

AADEJ - The Communicator

Associate Editor Mali Schantz-Feld discusses the evolving responsibilities of dental journal editors, who must navigate not only dental topics but also broader non-dental trends and technological advancements. She highlights how new communication methods, such as teledentistry, social media, and online reviews, have become imperative for dental practices and, by extension, for dental publishing. Referencing Dr. J. Tim Wright's editorial on "Critical Challenges Facing Dentistry," Schantz-Feld notes that emerging technologies like AI, while challenging to adopt, also present opportunities to improve patient data analysis, diagnostics, and workflow efficiency. She asserts that AADEJ is dedicated to providing relevant information, continuing education (CE), …

Some Thoughts On Standards, Edward M. Feinberg Dmd

AADEJ - The Communicator

This article defines "standards" as benchmarks for quality and achievement, explaining their importance in assuring quality, enhancing safety, ensuring consistency, fostering innovation, and adapting to new needs. It emphasizes that dental professionals are expected to maintain high ethical conduct, skillful performance, and continuous education. The concept of the "Standard of Care" in dentistry is explored as a nuanced area, generally defined as the care and skill expected of a reasonably competent dentist in similar circumstances, which evolves with advancements. The article also addresses standards for dental publications, requiring originality, fair use of images, and honest data. The author shares observations …

2024 Aadej-Adea Gies Foundation Editorial Award- Second Place: The Human Role In Artificial Intelligence, Christopher J. Smiley

AADEJ - The Communicator

This article is featured as a recipient of a 2024 AADEJ-ADEA Gies Foundation Editorial Award. It addresses concerns about Artificial Intelligence (AI) in dentistry, particularly the warning from technology researchers regarding "profound risks to society and humanity" due to advanced AI systems. The author argues that the conversation should focus on AI's potential and, more critically, the essential role humans play in its successful adoption, rather than fears of machines taking over. A main risk identified is blind reliance on AI recommendations, which can lead to a loss of critical thinking, misdiagnosis, or inappropriate treatment decisions. Therefore, focused human oversight …

Aadej And Icd Usa Section — Together For Over 50 Years!, Elaine C. Wagner Dds

AADEJ - The Communicator

With a new-found collaboration of our annual meetings in 2025, we celebrate more than 50-year partnership between the International College of Dentists (ICD) USA Section and the American Association of Dental Editors & Journalists (AADEJ). It highlights that both organizations are composed of individuals passionate about their respective missions: ICD Fellows focus on serving the underserved and improving global oral health, while AADEJ is dedicated to enhancing communication and elevating standards in dental journalism. The collaboration has stood the test of time, and for the first time, their Annual Meetings in 2025 will be held together at the Manchester Grand …

Michigan Dental Association Provides Leadership In Dental Journalism, David Foe

AADEJ - The Communicator

This article details the Michigan Dental Association (MDA)'s new funding program to support component editors in attending the American Association of Dental Editors and Journalists (AADEJ) annual conference. Recognizing the importance of quality dental journalism, the MDA offers up to $1,500 per attendee, covering significant costs for professional development. This initiative, a $15,000 investment for up to 10 attendees, aims to enhance member communications through skilled editors who create informative and engaging content. Benefits include practical training in copy editing, layout, e-communications, legal aspects, and writing, particularly for dentist-editors lacking formal journalism training. The program also fosters valuable networking opportunities, …

Reflections On The Detlef Moore Scholarship, Arjun Patel

AADEJ - The Communicator

The inaugural recipient of the Detlef Moore Scholarship provides a student perspective on the impact of the AADEJ annual conference. The Arjun Patel, a student at the University of Louisville School of Dentistry, describes how the experience shifted his view of dental journalism from mere research reporting to a tool for fostering community and patient care. Key takeaways for the 2025 scholarship winner included the practical application of plain language in scientific writing and the ethical integration of AI tools for academic writing.  The inaugural recipient of the Detlef Moore Scholarship provides a student perspective on the impact of the …

A Practical Guide To Digital Publishing, Katherine Fiorillo Ma

AADEJ - The Communicator

In this feature, Katherine Fiorillo, Senior Editor, Michigan Alum, provides a strategic overview of the benefits and best practices of digital publishing in the dental field. While acknowledging the authority of print, the author demonstrates that digital platforms offer essential advantages, including immediate engagement, measurable analytics, and targeted content distribution. The guide outlines technical considerations for single articles and full digital issues, emphasizing the importance of Search Engine Optimization (SEO) and web accessibility.

An Invite To The Adea Deans’ Conference, Denise Maihofer

AADEJ - The Communicator

In this report, the AADEJ executive director’s participation in the American Dental Education Association (ADEA) Deans’ Conference, highlighting a growing partnership between the AADEJ and dental education leadership. Key sessions explored resilient leadership during periods of uncertainty and the profound impact of generative artificial intelligence (AI) on higher education writing and communication. The conference also addressed the shifting political landscape and federal policy and funding changes currently facing oral health education.

How Do You Make Your Chicken Marsala?, Cathy Hung Dds

AADEJ - The Communicator

In her inaugural editorial as Editor-in-Chief of The Communicator, Dr. Hung utilizes a culinary metaphor to discuss the intersection of structure and creativity in dental writing. She posits that while grammar and spelling provide the necessary recipe, individual contributions and unique "twists" are what enrich the dental community. The piece invites readers to share their diverse perspectives to foster a culture of excellence and connection within the association.

Leading With Integrity; Writing With Purpose, Jasmine Shafagh Dmd

AADEJ - The Communicator

AADEJ President Dr. Jasmine Shafagh, reflects on AADEJ's 90-year legacy and its responsibility to uphold ethical standards in an era of rapid information exchange. Her message emphasizes the vital role of dental journalists in combating misinformation through accuracy, clarity, and integrity. By utilizing diverse digital and print mediums, the AADEJ aims to uplift the profession and provide members with the training necessary to navigate an increasingly complex communication landscape.

Temporary Marriage In Iraq: Views And Perceptions, Zena Al Safar

All Graduate Theses, Dissertations, and Other Capstone Projects

In July 2024, the Shia Muslim Parliament members proposed an amendment to the Personal Status Law. This amendment was passed on February 11, 2025. Per the amendment, the Shia Ja’afari School of Islamic jurisprudence has four months from the time the amendment was passed to submit a Personal Status Code for approval. It is speculated that this new Code will legalize mut’ah marriage, which is a type of temporary marriage. Temporary marriage within Islam is a heterosexual marriage that does not convey long-term commitment and usually has an end date. While scholarly written work in this field exists in other …

A Feminist Evaluation Of The Joint Programme: Assessing The Cultural Sensitivity Of Unicef And Unfpa's Strategies On Female Genital Cutting/Circumcision In Senegal And Nigeria, Coumba Soumare

All Graduate Theses, Dissertations, and Other Capstone Projects

Female Genital Cutting/Circumcision (FGC) encompasses procedures involving the partial or total removal of female external genitalia or other genital injuries, performed for non-medical reasons. Typically carried out on young girls, often between infancy and age 15, FGC is widely condemned in global discourse as a harmful and barbaric practice. However, within certain cultures, it is viewed as a rite of passage or a necessary tradition. I argue that to effectively address FGC, organizations must adopt a culturally sensitive approach. This research examines the United Nations Children’s Fund’s (UNICEF) and the United Nations Population Fund’s (UNFPA) initiatives in Senegal and Nigeria. …

A Qualitative Examination Of Special Education Directors' Beliefs Regarding Restrictive Procedures, Jennifer L. Krueger

All Graduate Theses, Dissertations, and Other Capstone Projects

This study aimed to understand the beliefs of special education directors from Minnesota about restrictive procedures in K-12 public schools. Physical holding and seclusion are problematic because of injuries, emotional trauma, and increased use with students of color. In this basic qualitative study, 10 current special education directors in Minnesota were interviewed regarding their beliefs about seclusion and physical holding. The frameworks of critical race theory and transformational coaching were utilized to interpret results. Thematic analysis revealed that White participants believe that seclusion is necessary for students with the most intensive needs. For directors of color, beliefs focused on issues …

Shattering The Glass Ceiling: Comparative Narratives Of Women Leaders In Public Relations In Ghana And The United States Of America, Adriana Kukuwaa Adu

All Graduate Theses, Dissertations, and Other Capstone Projects

This study explores the lived experiences of women in public relations (PR) leadership roles in both Ghana and the United States, focusing on the cultural, institutional, and societal barriers that shape their professional journeys. Employing a qualitative research design, the study involved ten women in senior PR positions, five from each country, through in-depth, semi-structured interviews. Thematic analysis identified six key themes: institutional barriers and gendered expectations; double standards in leadership communication; the influence of stereotypes; mentorship and support; intra-gender competition; and leadership agency and optimism. Guided by Social Role Theory, Glass Ceiling Theory, Feminist Standpoint Theory, and Transformational Leadership …

A Path To Trust: Addressing Performative Engagement And Building Authentic Relationships Between Cities And Communities, Marika Reese

All Graduate Theses, Dissertations, and Other Capstone Projects

This qualitative study examines how Minneapolis City employees and community members perceive and experience the efforts of the City to engage them in public safety reform through community engagement initiatives. Although the City has pledged to prioritize racial equity and inclusion, many community members describe these engagement practices as manipulative and tokenizing. Grounded in the theoretical frameworks of Critical Race Theory and Arnstein’s Ladder of Citizen Participation, and guided by participatory action research and narrative inquiry, this study centers community voices. Data were collected through a community learning exchange involving City employees and residents, followed by semi-structured interviews with four …

From Gossip To Guidance: Analyzing Student Posting On Yik Yak, Mikayla Nemgar

All Graduate Theses, Dissertations, and Other Capstone Projects

This study examines how college students at Minnesota State University, Mankato, use the anonymous social media app Yik Yak, and what they discuss within it. Using qualitative content analysis, 963 anonymous posts were collected and coded into five initial categories: (1) Seeking and Sharing Information, (2) Giving Raw and Unfiltered Opinions, (3) Attempting to Socialize, (4) Seeking Belonging, and (5) Complaining. The findings show that most posts expressed raw opinions, followed by seeking for belonging. Sub-themes emerged in these two categories, which offered more specific examples of how students use Yik Yak. These trends provide insight into how anonymity may …

From Enrollment To Graduation: How Social Support Shapes Latino Educational Trajectories In Minnesota, Erick Heaney

All Graduate Theses, Dissertations, and Other Capstone Projects

Latino students represent the fastest-growing racial/ethnic group in the United States, yet their post-secondary completion rates remain significantly lower than those of other student populations. This study explores the educational trajectories of Latino students in Minnesota, focusing on the role of social support networks in shaping persistence and attainment. The research identifies peer and family support as the strongest predictors of Latino students' confidence to graduate (p < .001), underscoring the central role of close personal networks in persistence. Findings suggest that while financial and structural barriers continue to hinder success, culturally responsive support systems can positively influence degree attainment. Although centered on Minnesota, the study offers broader implications for higher education policy and practice, highlighting the importance of targeted interventions and institutional accountability in addressing equity gaps. Strengthening support for Latino students is essential to advancing educational and economic opportunity nationwide.

Exploring The Experiences Of Collegiate Black Female Student-Athletes From A Phenomenological Perspective, Deja L. Jackson

All Graduate Theses, Dissertations, and Other Capstone Projects

Collegiate Black female student-athletes at predominantly White institutions (PWIs) face a unique experience as they navigate the complex intersections of race, gender, and sports while striving for academic and athletic success. Their encounters with racism, discrimination, and marginalization remain largely underexplored. This research provides findings from a transcendental phenomenological study that examined the lived experiences of these athletes. The goal was to understand how racism, discrimination, and marginalization impact these student-athletes both individually and in context sport. Grounded in social constructivism and informed by Black Feminist Thought and Intersectionality Theory, the study involved semi-structured interviews with eight current and former …

Embodied Affliction: Somalis’ Perception Of Trauma, Ahmed M. Hassan

All Graduate Theses, Dissertations, and Other Capstone Projects

Somali immigrants and refugees have a high rate of trauma, mainly because of their traumatic experiences during the Somali civil war and subsequent migration. Nevertheless, they do not readily access available psychological services in the countries to which they migrate. Research of the past two decades has revealed that different cultures conceptualize and communicate mental distress differently from one another. Those differences affect how Western mental health providers approach the treatment of clients who immigrate from an unfamiliar culture to Western countries, where the biomedical model of mental health dominates the health care system. Improved cultural awareness and communication between …

Knowledge And Education Of Minnesota High School Coaches Regarding The Signs And Symptoms Of Eating Disorders In High School Athletes, Mikaela Whiteford

All Graduate Theses, Dissertations, and Other Capstone Projects

The purpose of this study was to assess the level of education and knowledge among Minnesota high school coaches regarding the signs and symptoms of eating disorders in high school athletes. Data were collected through a researcher-developed survey, adapted from three existing instruments. The survey was administered through Qualtrics and distributed to participants through email. The findings indicate that while Minnesota high school coaches possess some knowledge of eating disorder signs and symptoms, their formal training and education on the topic are limited. Most of the education or training received by coaches was obtained for reasons unrelated to their responsibilities …

No More Pinkwashing At The Pink Pony Club: A Feminist Media Analysis Of The Potential Shift In Queer Popular Culture To Decenter Homonationalism And Pinkwashing, Taylor G. Maki

All Graduate Theses, Dissertations, and Other Capstone Projects

Previous research on queer popular culture highlights the influence popular culture has had on the United States’ legal and political protections for queer people—specifically cisgender gay men and cisgender lesbians with the legalization of same-sex marriage and the repeal of “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell.” However, some scholars and queer activists critique the homonationalist and pinkwashing agendas deployed by LGBTQ popular culture activists. This research examines whether or not there has been a shift in dominant queer popular culture that decenters homonationalism and pinkwashing. Using a feminist media analysis, this research examines contemporary queer musicians’ activism against the United States’ involvement …

Implementation Of An Updated Intravenous Iron Order Panel In The Acute Care Setting: A Pre/Post Study, Robert D. Beckett

Parkview Pharmacy Department

Presented at Midyear Clinical Meeting

Implementation of the revised order panel led to reduced utilization including a reduction in the proportion of patients receiving IV iron, number of total doses, proportion of patients receiving more than one dose, and proportion of patients receiving more than 200 mg.

One Bolus, Many Benefits: Implementing Tenecteplase For Acute Ischemic Stroke, Robert D. Beckett Pharmd

Parkview Pharmacy Department

Presented at the Midyear Clinical Meeting.

Overall, no statistically significant differences in door-to-needle time or secondary outcomes between alteplase and tenecteplase groups was identified. This could relate to time in imaging and patient evaluation. Patients treated with tenecteplase showed greater bleeding risk versus alteplase, though these results were not statistically significant when accounting for baseline age in an exploratory regression. Patients who received tenecteplase were slightly older, on average.

Evaluation Of Terlipressin Use At A Community Health System, Robert D. Beckett Pharmd

Parkview Pharmacy Department

Presented at the Midyear Clinical Meeting.

Findings of this evaluation suggest opportunities to improve terlipressin utilization by sharing results back to Nephrology and GI and

reviewing P&T-approved criteria for use, implementing EMR alerts to reinforce dosing

protocols every 24-48 hours for dose adjustments

or discontinuation based on Scr trends (day 4 and

beyond), and supporting daily monitoring of fluid

and respiratory status.

Findings of this evaluation suggest opportunities to improve terlipressin utilization by sharing results back to Nephrology and GI and

reviewing P&T-approved criteria for use, implementing EMR alerts to reinforce dosing

protocols every 24-48 hours for dose adjustments

or …

Applying The 5d Model Of Country Image For International Public Relations: Analyzing Cultural Perceptions Of Qatar’S International Events "Expo 2023", Taleb Al-Adbah

Graduate Thesis and Dissertation post-2024

Studying country image in public relations has become essential to developing practices for countries engaging with international audiences. Hosting international events highlights the need for international public relations, where the country must adapt its culture and create culturally sensitive strategies to communicate effectively with individuals from diverse cultural backgrounds (Edwards, 2018). In this dissertation, Expo 2023 was employed as an international event to analyze Qatar’s country image among foreign and Qatari audiences. The dissertation aimed to understand the differences between their perspectives on Qatar and determine whether cultural tendencies impacted the country’s image. Additionally, the relationship between intercultural competency and …

Assessing The Accuracy Of Emotion Classification Of Whisper V3: Comparing Performance On Speech Emotion Datasets For Both English And Arabic, Oumaima Khalfi

Graduate Thesis and Dissertation post-2024

This thesis investigates the application of Whisper V3 which is a state-of-the-art, multilingual automatic speech recognition model to Arabic Speech Emotion Recognition (SER). Building on the foundational work of Muhammad Firdho, who adapted Whisper architectures for emotion classification tasks, this study extends his approach to the context of Arabic, a language characterized by rich dialectal diversity, complex morphology, and unique prosodic features.Although Whisper V3 was primarily designed for Automatic Speech Recognition (ASR), its latent representations appear to capture paralinguistic cues that can be leveraged for emotion classification. Muhammad Firdho laid the basis for this study by showing the ability of …

Evaluating The Accuracy Of Stature Estimation From Tibial Radiographs Using Known And Newly Developed Regression Formulas, Atlantis Kae Baron

Graduate Student Theses, Dissertations, & Professional Papers

This study assesses the accuracy of stature estimation from tibial radiographs using digital measurements as an alternative to traditional osteometric tools. Stature estimation is crucial in forensic anthropology for identifying individuals, especially cases involving skeletal remains. Traditional methods rely on physical measurements and established regression formulas, such as those by Trotter & Gleser (1958).

This research analyzed tibial radiographs from the Forensic Anthropology Skeletal Trauma (FAST) database with ImageJ software to measure tibial lengths digitally. The sample included 59 tibiae, with measurements compared against three regression formulas; Trotter & Gleser (1958), Simon et al. (2023), and a new regression formula …

Juvenile Arthritis, Body Image, And Disordered Eating: An Exploration Of Experiences, Katelyn Ann Melcher

Graduate Student Theses, Dissertations, & Professional Papers

This qualitative study examined eating and body experiences among youth with juvenile arthritis (JA). JA, an autoimmune condition affecting nearly 300,000 youth in the United States, poses significant challenges including chronic pain, disability, and psychological concerns such as anxiety and depression. Adolescence is a critical developmental time for body image and disordered eating concerns to emerge. However, no qualitative research has explored the interactions of JA, body image, and eating behaviors among youth. Twelve youth with a JA diagnosis participated in a semistructured qualitative interview examining their experiences with JA and their feelings about their bodies and food as they …

College Athlete Workload Management To Improve Performance, Brody Reid

Graduate Student Theses, Dissertations, & Professional Papers

Load management is an often used and misunderstood term within the realm of sport science. It has been described as the reason behind numerous soft tissue injuries as well as being the reason star athletes sit on the bench for games. This review aims to synthesize the existing literature regarding the workload management paradox within sport. Seminal work in this topic has been gathered mostly by Tim Gabbett in the paper “The Injury Prevention Paradox” where a relationship between fitness gain and fatigue accrued is outlined. This theory was first proposed by Roger Bannister in 1975. This paper …

Love At First Words: A Communication Competency Approach To Romantic Relationship Initiation, Grace E. Wiegand

Graduate Student Theses, Dissertations, & Professional Papers

Initial interactions are essential to romantic relationship formation, and both parties must desire a second interaction after an initial encounter for the relationship to advance. Many studies have explored the communication styles and tactics that are effective in a person desiring a second interaction from a dating initiation scenario. However, existing research has yet to explain why some communication strategies do or do not result in second interactions. The current study seeks to examine this phenomenon further, testing the extent to which perceived partner communication competence influences a person to want to see another again after an initial interaction. In …