bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Pulmonary cement embolism: a rare complication of vertebroplasty
Authors: Tjønnfjord Eirik , Ho Ai Phi Thuy , Sætre Dag Ottar , Raouf Nezar
Published: November 2024

This comprehensive case study aimed to highlight the condition of pulmonary embolism (PE), which despite its relative obscurity, may be more common than initially assumed. PE frequently occurs in the Emergency Department. PE along with deep vein thrombosis are the two most prevalent forms of venous thromboembolism (VTE). VTE ranks as the third most common cardiovascular condition encountered in the Emergency Department, following heart attacks and strokes. Acknowledging the symptoms of VTE and acting on them early are important to prevent chronic manifestations and heart failure in some cases owing to persisting pulmonary hypertension. One of the most frequent causes of VTE is surgery, which often occurs owing to immobilization. However, in some cases, VTE is due to the procedure itself or due to what is used in the procedure or injected in the patient. We report the case of a patient who complained of dyspnea for some time before diagnostic steps were taken, such as computed tomography and echocardiography. This case report describes the complication of PE due to vertebroplasty, which is well described but underdiagnosed because it may not be considered. More focus on this complication during follow-up could help diagnose and treat patients more rapidly.
Türkiye’s Relations with/within NATO: The Ontological Security Dilemmas of Türkiye’s Transatlantic Identity
Authors: Akgül-Açıkmeşe Sinem , Aksu Fulya
Published: November 2024

Since 1952, Türkiye’s Transatlantic identity has been largely shaped by its NATO membership and interactions with the Allies. During the Cold War, Türkiye aligned its national interests and security concerns with NATO, making its membership a central element of its identity. However, starting in the 2000s, Türkiye shifted toward a more independent foreign policy, influenced by its new activism and regional ambitions, particularly in the Middle East. This shift has caused tensions with NATO, especially considering Türkiye’s military interventions in Syria, its purchase of the S-400 missile defense system from Russia, and its reactions to the latest enlargement of NATO. This paper examines Türkiye’s evolving Transatlantic identity through the lens of ontological security, according to which states act in order to provide continuity in their identities (Türkiye’s Transatlantic identity) and to prevent any instabilities to feel ontologically secure, which then might create security dilemmas between the protective security cocoons (Türkiye’s NATO membership) and the crises with other actors (Türkiye’s clashes with/within NATO). In other words, this paper aims to understand how Türkiye’s Transatlantic identity is still valued, desired, and reconstructed, despite the security dilemmas of Türkiye’s contentions with/within the NATO Alliance, from the ontological security perspective.
Environmental management and its effect on innovation and export performance: Empirical research in Chinese manufacturing companies
Authors: Li Yan , Li Jilian
Published: November 2024

This study investigates the role of Chinese manufacturing firms in implementing Environmental Management Systems (EMS) to understand how these practices impact export performance and the mediating and moderating effects of innovation. Using structural equation modeling on data from 226 Chinese manufacturing businesses, our findings indicate that EMS indirectly enhances export performance through innovation. This research provides significant contributions to general management by integrating EMS and innovation within the strategic framework of manufacturing firms, offering insights for enhancing competitive advantage and sustainability in global markets. The findings also present practical implications for managers to leverage EMS and innovation for improved business outcomes and sustainable practices.
Data proficiency in MAE education: Insights from student perspectives and experiences
Authors: Aikins Godwyll , Berdanier Catherine G. P. , Nguyen Kim-Doang
Published: November 2024

This paper explores how mechanical and aerospace engineering (MAE) students understand and improve their data proficiency throughout their engineering curriculum. Data is essential for engineering students to be proficient in handling, as it is involved in every aspect of engineering. With the growing ubiquity of data and data analysis in all engineering fields, engineering students need to learn and master data skills to be competitive in the current and future job market. However, there is a lack of research on how non-computer science or software engineering majors perceive data proficiency and how they seek opportunities to develop data skills, especially as it relates to specific subdomains. In this paper, we investigate how students perceive data proficiency and how they develop using interview data from N = 27 MAE students at a research institution in the southeastern United States. Using the How People Learn framework, we analyzed the data through thematic analysis methods with a postpositivist approach, considering the bounded context of this study. The results show that MAE students value data proficiency as a crucial skill for their future careers and recognize its importance in making evidence-based engineering decisions. The study also reveals that, even though data proficiency is often a “hidden competency,” MAE students intuitively find various ways to enhance their data skills. These findings may help engineering educators to tailor their instruction to their students’ needs, address misconceptions about data and data proficiency, and prepare a data-literate future engineering workforce.
Confirmatory Factor Analysis of the KeyMath-3 Diagnostic Assessment
Authors: Wray Michael D. , Reynolds Matthew R.
Published: November 2024

The KeyMath-3 Diagnostic Assessment (KM-3) is an individually-administered math assessment used in educational placement and diagnostic decisions. It includes 10 subtests making up Basic Concepts, Operations, and Applications indexes and a “Total Test” composite that measures overall math ability. Here, covariances among subtests from the norming sample were analyzed with confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) to investigate the validity of the three-index scoring structure for identifying relative strengths and weaknesses in math skills. Results indicated a single-factor structure, along with a “hand computation” subfactor potentially representing arithmetic calculation, was the most viable CFA model. The factor is largely measured in the same way across grade groups. At the subtest level, two calculation subtests yielded sufficient specificity for interpretation across all grades; three additional subtests had sufficient specificity at particular grade levels. These findings suggest the KM-3 primarily measures overall math ability and the utility of the three index scores is limited.
Self-esteem and social interactions in daily life: An experience sampling study
Authors: Enting Manon , Jongerling Joran , Reitz Anne Kristin
Published: November 2024

Theory and empirical evidence suggest that self-esteem and the quality of social relationships are mutually related, however, little is known about the dynamic short-term association in daily life. Experience sampling data of 232 Dutch Master’s students ( M age = 24.6, SD age = 2.7) was collected across four waves; each consisting of 14 days of four daily assessments (23,107 data points). We applied Dynamic Structural Equation Modeling to study the within-day associations between momentary self-esteem (assessed in the morning and evening) and social interactions (anticipated and experienced). First, results showed that quality of social interactions during the day was associated with evening, but not morning self-esteem. Second, positive anticipation of social interactions was associated with morning, but not with evening self-esteem. Third, trait self-esteem did not moderate the within-day associations. Together, results suggest that when having higher self-esteem, people anticipate more positive social interactions at the same time, but they do not experience more positive social interactions later on. Having but not anticipating more positive social interactions seems to contribute to higher self-esteem later on. Differentiating between anticipated and experienced interactions and using multiple daily assessments helps obtain a more fine-grained understanding of the dynamic processes between self-esteem and social interactions.
Organised Violence, Inequality and Work: Violence Specialists as a Classed Occupation
Authors: Zepeda Gil Raúl
Published: November 2024

Scholars have long debated what is the role of inequalities in organised violence, but the causal mechanisms remain unclear. I argue that mainstream approaches (e.g. deviance, subcultures, grievances, rational choice and Marxism) fall short because they overlook that organised violence is an intensive form of work. These perspectives often exoticise individuals involved in violence for profit or political purposes. Violence is not a deviant feature of social life but an integral part of collective action. By applying occupational lenses, I position those engaged in violence as a specialised class of manual workers recruited in the protection labour market. Scholars can acknowledge the occupational stratification observed before in research about organised violence by understanding violence specialists as workers. This essay explores how the sociology of work can enhance our understanding of inequality reproduction within criminal organisations, guerrillas, armies, police forces, mercenaries and private military companies.
Tooth Nomenclature and Numbering Systems for Exotic Companion Mammals
Authors: Capello Vittorio , Johnson-Delaney Cathy , Lennox Angela
Published: November 2024

Exotic companion mammals represent a branch of veterinary medicine with important implications in dentistry. The standard dental nomenclature and the systems of numbering teeth have not been applied in detail in these species and are not very familiar to many veterinarians. Selected species such as lagomorphs and rodents have anatomic and physiologic features that affect terminology and numbering. The dentition of marsupial species is also different than in placental mammals, complicating use of the modified Triadan system. This article describes, illustrates, and compares the 4 numbering systems that currently are used in dentistry for the most common exotic mammal species, and proposes a modification to the Triadan system for application to marsupials.
Creativity disposition on entrepreneurial attitude and intentions: A comparison between regular and distance (blended) learning university students
Authors: Amofah Kwaku
Published: November 2024

This study examined the entrepreneurial intentions (EIs) of conventional and blended learning students at a technical university in Ghana, using the theory of planned behaviour as a framework. Hypotheses were formulated to examine the moderating role of university support systems on the relationship between creativity disposition and entrepreneurial intentions. Data from 372 students were gathered through an online survey and analyzed using Smart-PLS software. Results indicated that creativity and attitudes toward entrepreneurship positively influenced entrepreneurial intent in both student groups, with attitude partially mediating the creativity-intent link. However, university support negatively moderated this relationship. A multi-group analysis showed no significant difference in EIs between the two student cohorts. Recommendations were made for the adoption of hybrid learning and policy considerations for universities.
Utilisation of ICT in the management of land administration information in Tanzania
Authors: Danda Daudi Hamisi , Wema Evans F.
Published: November 2024

The study investigates the use of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) in managing land administration information in Tanzania. The study specifically established the status of available ICT facilities and assessed the extent of their application in managing land administration information. The research involved a cross-sectional survey and interview with 422 stakeholders, revealing the presence of ICT facilities in land administration authorities and individuals. The result revealed the presence of ICT facilities in land administration authorities and among individuals. These technologies are used for planning, designing, surveying, and processing land documents. However, a lack of knowledge about certain ICT services hinders the government’s efforts to enhance land services. Online services in land administration, such as search, building permits, and land application, can reduce bureaucracy and increase revenue. The potential of ICTs is significant, prompting land authorities to develop strategies and invest in their efficient use. The study recommends investing in modern ICT infrastructure in land offices to modernise land services, increase client satisfaction, and achieve the land sector’s goals. Furthermore, it suggests providing online land-related services and integrating them with online payment systems to increase revenue and reduce travel time. The study also recommends improving government online platforms for land information communication, enhancing stakeholder self-service, and introducing SMS, mobile applications, and AI for land administration information services. Lastly, the study recommends reviewing the MLHHSD ICT Policy and providing training to adapt to technology trends.
A different image? Images of scientists in Chinese films
Authors: Yu Hailing , Luo Ao
Published: November 2024

This study explores how scientists are represented in the films produced in China since the establishment of the People’s Republic of China in 1949. In total, 61 films (25 realistic and 36 science fiction) are analyzed according to grounded theory. Results show that the scientist in Chinese films tends to be male, middle-aged, married, sociable, and with tidy hair. He is most likely from the field of physics and tends to conduct experiments in a laboratory. Six prototypes are identified: the patriotic scientist, the stubborn scientist, the elite scientist, the scientist as adventurer, the helpless scientist, and the mad scientist. The patriotic scientist is specific to the Chinese context and predominates in realistic films. In comparison, the science fiction films show more diversity in representing scientists. Finally, we discuss similarities and differences in the cinematic representation of scientists in China and in the West.
Identities of Emerging Adult Men in Contemporary Gujarat
Authors: Thakkar Mansi , Kapadia Shagufa , Kalathil Subair
Published: November 2024

Emerging adulthood is considered a phase in which an individual is required to make choices that shape identity. It involves making major life decisions regarding occupation and relationships. This study focuses on understanding the identities of emerging adult men in the domains of career, relationship, and gender roles. Participants included 40 single emerging adult men, 18–29 years, from educated upper middle-class families in Vadodara city in Gujarat. In-depth interviews, including open-ended questions and hypothetical vignettes, were conducted to gather the data. The qualitative data was examined through open and axial coding, followed by identifying the common and salient themes across the identity domains. The results reveal that urban middle-class men are inclined to be gender sensitive and are resistant to stereotypical notions of masculinity. Assertion of individuality is clearly observed among the young men along with concern for family harmony.
Protective Role of Anthraquinone Purpurin Against Cardiotoxicity Induced by Isoproterenol in Adult Wistar Rats
Authors: Wang Xuecai , Huang Yaguo , Sun Xiaojuan , Zhao Bing
Published: November 2024

Background

Purpurin are naturally occurring anthraquinones derived from the roots of Rubia species. Purpurin is a red-colored bioactive compound commonly used as a food colorant. In ancient times, Rubia species plants were used in Chinese medicine to treat rheumatoid arthritis. Research studies have proven purpurin exerts antimicrobial, neuromodulatory, antigenotoxic, anti-inflammatory, anticancer, and antioxidant effects. The present investigation was proposed to evaluate the efficacy of purpurin against myocardial infarction in rats.

Materials and Methods

Purpurin was pretreated in healthy adult male rats and subjected to a myocardial infarction with isoproterenol to assess the cardioprotective effect of purpurin. CRP, total protein, and uric acid levels were quantified to analyze the efficacy against myocardial infarction. Cardiac functional markers and antioxidant levels were measured to evaluate the role of purpurin on isoproterenol-induced myocardial infarction. Further to prove the cardioprotective efficacy of purpurin cardiac tissue ATPases and electrolytes were assessed in the experimental animals. The anti-inflammatory property of purpurin was analyzed by quantifying proinflammatory cytokines. Histopathological analysis of cardiac tissue was to confirm the protective effect of purpurin against isoproterenol-induced myocardial infarction.

Results

The present investigation demonstrated the significant protective effect of purpurin by decreasing the levels of CRP, uric acid levels, and total protein levels in myocardial infarction-induced rats. It restored the cardiac functional markers and glutathione system in the cardiac tissue of myocardial infarction-induced rats. It increased the levels of cardiac ATPases and reinstated the electrolytes in the cardiac tissue of myocardial infarction-induced rats. Purpurin significantly demonstrated an anti-inflammatory and cardioprotective effect that was evidenced with histopathological analysis.

Conclusion

Our findings prove purpurin suppresses the proinflammatory response of isoproterenol treatment and exerts a cardioprotective effect in myocardial infarction-induced rats.
Individual differences in music-evoked autobiographical memories
Authors: Jakubowski Kelly , Lee Edith , Bai Elena , Belfi Amy M.
Published: November 2024

Music is increasingly used as a cue for autobiographical memories in psychological research and clinical interventions. Despite the burgeoning body of evidence on the phenomenology of music-evoked autobiographical memories (MEAMs), few previous studies have focused in detail on how the capacities and experiences of individual listeners impact features of MEAMs. The present work examined the relationship of individual differences in visual and auditory imagery, musical familiarity and engagement, musical reward sensitivity, musical training, and gender to MEAM features. Participants ( N = 304, ages 18–25 years, 156 female) completed a self-selected MEAM task, in which they described an autobiographical memory they often associate with a piece of music of their choice, and a cued MEAM task, in which they described and rated autobiographical memories evoked by 16 chart-topping pop songs, alongside a series of questionnaires assessing individual differences in mental imagery and musical behaviors. In the cued MEAM task, memories elicited by more familiar songs were more frequent, more vivid, and more positive, whilst general engagement with pop music also positively impacted the vividness and emotionality of these memories. The amount of visual imagery within MEAMs was positively related to individual capacities to generate vivid visual and auditory imagery, and higher scores in musical reward sensitivity were associated with greater emotional intensity of MEAMs. Formal musical training did not predict any MEAM features. Results are discussed in relation to how such findings can maximize the efficacy and rigor of experiments and interventions that use music as an autobiographical memory cue.
Influence of Cleft Lip and Palate on Children's Recorder, Flute, and Clarinet Performance
Authors: van der Weijden F.N. , Mego Hernández E. , Schopman M.A.M. , Rossell Perry P.E. , van Essen L.H.
Published: November 2024

Objective

To evaluate whether having a cleft palate with or without cleft lip (CP ± L) influences the performance of a child on a wind instrument.

Design

Cross-sectional.

Setting

This study was conducted at Asociación San Lucas (Peru), which has a multidisciplinary care program for children with CP ± L. Free recorder lessons are offered to all patients aged 6–8 years. After that, the children can switch to flute, clarinet, violin, viola, or cello. For a fee, children without CP ± L can also participate in the music program.

Participants

All children with and without CP ± L who were participating in the music program and were able to play the recorder, flute, or clarinet (N = 43).

Main Outcome Measures

Quantitative and qualitative performance exercises: maximum blowing duration, highest note, lowest note, diminuendo, crescendo, and sound quality.

Results

No significant differences in performance were found between children with and without CP ± L. Older children and children with more experience on their instrument demonstrated a significantly longer blowing duration and better sound quality. Within the CP ± L group, those with a satisfactory surgery result had a significantly longer blowing duration than those with a partly satisfactory result (eg, presence of a fistula, palatal surgery revisions, or (need of) pharingoplasty). Furthermore, children with bilateral cleft lip and palate performed diminuendo significantly less smoothly than those with the unilateral type.

Conclusion

Children with and without CP ± L demonstrated equally good performances on the recorder, flute, and clarinet. Therefore, families and caregivers should not discourage children with CP ± L from learning to play these wind instruments.
“Once We Found Our Groove, . . .”: A Study of Preservice Music Teachers Engaged in a Popular Music Education Experience
Authors: Song Julie Myung Ok , Tyson David
Published: November 2024

The purpose of this intrinsic case study was to examine the perceived benefits and challenges of implementing informal learning practices through popular music education for preservice music teachers. Specifically, we sought to understand why and how preservice music educators would perceive benefits and challenges from their experiences in a modern band. We conducted a study with five preservice music teachers in a modern band outside of the curriculum in a music teacher education program. We collected the data for 9 weeks, gathering multiple interviews, participants’ written responses, artifacts, and researchers’ field notes. Three overarching themes emerged from the data analysis: (a) a self-navigating process of aural-based learning, (b) autonomy with freedom, and (c) reflective educators. Our findings indicated that the ultimate goal of informal learning practices in music teacher education may not be limited to mastering musical skills but should include improving problem solving and classroom decision making.
Review of the Hazards and Contraindications of Etomidate
Authors: Zheng Gaolin , Chen Yinyu , Wu Guangmei , Song Tao , Zou Xing , Nie Qianyun , Zhang Peng
Published: November 2024

Etomidate, an ultrashort-acting non-barbiturate sedative derived from imidazole, exerts potent inhibitory effects on the central nervous system. It is commonly employed for the induction of intravenous general anaesthesia or assisted anaesthesia. Recently, etomidate has emerged as an alternative to narcotics and novel psychoactive substances, leading to an increasing trend of abuse. Chronic overdose of etomidate can result in irreversible brain damage and various mental disorders. Severe cases may manifest as mental disturbances, behavioural disorders, self-mutilation and even death. The toxicological mechanisms of etomidate remain poorly understood. Additionally, there is limited information on the clinical symptoms and histopathological changes associated with etomidate poisoning and standardized detection methods for etomidate in blood, urine and hair are lacking. Consequently, further research on toxicological pathology and the development of reliable testing methods is crucial. This study reviews the metabolism, distribution, adverse reactions, poisoning manifestations, toxicology mechanisms and testing methods of etomidate.
Improving Children’s Rehabilitation Service Quality and Experience Through Innovative Programming: A Developmental Evaluation of the Bright Ideas Program
Authors: Reitzel Meaghan , Cheung Emily , Lennon Cynthia , Wylie-Toal Brendan , Phoenix Michelle
Published: November 2024

Introduction:

Evidence-informed practice (EIP) is a widely accepted approach to providing rehabilitation services, however there are barriers to implementation. Bright Ideas is an innovative program developed by KidsAbility’s Rocket Discovery Centre, aiming enhance uptake of EIP through incubating ideas identified by KidsAbility staff linked to organizational priorities of enhancing service access and outcomes.

Objectives:

To evaluate Bright Ideas by identifying perceived successes and challenges associated with the program with the aim of supporting clinical innovation and the adoption of evidence-informed practices in children’s rehabilitation centres.

Methods:

A developmental evaluation approach was utilized to complete a real-time evaluation of Bright Ideas. Bright Ideas program materials were reviewed to describe the program. A focus group and interview were conducted with staff who led Bright Ideas projects ( n = 7) to gain insight into their experiences. Additionally, interviews were conducted with the program coordinators ( n = 2) to understand the evolution of the program. Data was analysed using qualitative content analysis.

Results:

Successes that drive the Bright Ideas program and roadblocks it has encountered were identified across three dimensions: the personal level (involving Bright Ideas project leads), the programmatic level (focusing on the Bright Ideas program), and the organizational level (pertaining to KidsAbility as a whole). Key roadblocks included a lack of knowledge about the program organizationally, restricted time resources, competing organizational priorities, and an absence of infrastructure to scale ideas from Bright Ideas into the organization.

Conclusions:

Bright Ideas is an innovative program aiming to make impactful change by enabling staff to lead implementation-driven projects. Our findings highlight many successes of the program and use the Theoretical Domains Framework and Behaviour Change Wheel to make recommendations to support its sustained implementation at KidsAbility.
Adhesion Reduction Agent Guardix-SG® Versus MegaShield® for Postoperative Swallowing Function Analysis in Thyroidectomy Patients
Authors: Lee Hye Kyoung , Hwang Jihye , Jo Seongmoon , Kim Jin Kyong , Lee Cho Rok , Kang Sang-Wook , Nam Kee-Hyun , Cho Sung-Rae
Published: November 2024

Background:

Antiadhesion products are essential for postoperative care in patients after thyroidectomy by providing a physical barrier to cover the exposed tissue and thus preventing abnormal adhesion of adjacent tissues. Since thyroidectomy may result in swallowing difficulties arising from damage or inflammation of the surrounding tissues, the use of antiadhesion agents such as MegaShield® or Guardix-SG® will help reduce scar formation. This may thus improve postoperative swallowing function in patients.

Methods:

Patients were enrolled and followed up between October 4, 2018, and March 26, 2020. Patients during the postoperative follow-up sessions were randomly allocated to the standard care with Guardix-SG® and clinical trial medical device application group with MegaShield® (test group) in a 1:1 ratio by the permuted block randomization method. Patient performance on penetration aspiration scale (PAS), National Institutes of Health-Swallow Safety Scale (NIH-SSS), videofluoroscopic dysphagia scale (VDS), Dynamic Imaging Grade of Swallowing Toxicity (DIGEST) based on Videofluoroscopic swallowing study (VFSS) were collected. Nonadhesion-reducing agent patient data were used as a control group.

Results:

No statistical significance was shown ( P > .05) between the 2 groups of MegaShield® and Guardix-SG® in various phases from thick semisolid, thin semisolid to liquid for both PAS and NIH-SSS. Several statistical significances were reported in the results comparing various criteria of PAS, NIH-SSS, VDS at different oral and pharyngeal phases, and DIGEST in all 3 stages among MegaShield®, Guardix-SG®, and nonadhesion-reducing agent group.

Conclusions:

These results prove the noninferiority of MegaShield® compared with Guardix-SG® as an antiadhesion agent in postthyroidectomy care.
How to avoid missing a diagnosis of neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder
Authors: Carnero Contentti Edgar , Rotstein Dalia , Okuda Darin T , Paul Friedemann
Published: November 2024

Recognizing neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder (NMOSD) and differentiating NMOSD from multiple sclerosis (MS) and other disorders can be challenging yet it is extremely important to prevent misdiagnosis, defined in this review as the incorrect diagnosis of patients who truly have NMOSD, particularly in aquaporin-4-IgG (AQP4-IgG)-seronegative cases. The heterogeneity of clinical presentations and wide range of differential diagnoses often lead to missed diagnoses of NMOSD. Misapplication of the 2015 NMOSD criteria and misinterpretation of clinical and neuroradiological findings are relevant factors associated with misdiagnosis in clinical practice. Despite the presence of a specific biomarker for NMOSD (AQP4-IgG), misdiagnosis rates have been reported as high as 35%. Studies indicate that misdiagnosed patients often undergo unnecessary prolonged immunotherapy, leading to health risks and increased morbidity. Accurate definitive diagnosis is crucial as long-term outcomes and treatment approaches differ based on the correct diagnosis, and inappropriate immunotherapy can lead to disability in NMOSD patients. This review outlines factors linked to NMOSD misdiagnosis and briefly discusses strategies to reduce misdiagnosis.
Lifestyle, nostalgia, and serial storytelling in the Southern Living South
Authors: Bayne Caroline N.
Published: November 2024

This article analyzes Southern Living magazine's (1966-) growth into a total lifestyle brand across numerous media platforms. The magazine and its transmedia extensions have shaped southern lifestyle culture from the late 1960s on, curating a version of the region sourced from iconography of the Old South. The Southern Living Inspired Communities Project, consisting of neighborhoods chosen by the brand as the best places to live southern launched in 2014. I take Habersham, an Inspired Community near Beaufort, South Carolina as a case study to analyze attempts to capture southern living through architectural styles and lifestyle culture provided by the Southern Living total lifestyle brand. The use of antebellum aesthetics and ideologies guide the brand's preservation of a traditional South in the face of ongoing modernization and Americanization.
“PoV: You are reading an academic article.” The memetic performance of affiliation in TikTok’s platform vernacular
Authors: Trillò Tommaso
Published: November 2024

This article investigates the characteristics and communicative values of the popular PoV meme on TikTok to uncover mechanisms of community building on the platform. An analysis of the content, form, and stance of 250 videos revealed that creators of PoV memes lip-sync to audio remediated from pop culture and mimic how they imagine “you” would act in a given scenario. I offer the concept of “echoic affiliation” to describe how PoV memes leverage TikTok’s “use this sound” function to construct ephemeral bonds between users. Furthermore, PoV memes textually articulate multiple perspectives, producing intersubjective encounters that reflect a platform imaginary in which “the algorithm” efficiently clusters similar people on the same “side” of the app. In the conclusions, I present a novel definition of PoV memes and reflect on the pivotal role of affiliation for TikTok’s platform vernacular.
Group-swinging as a strategic approach to curating multiple minority identities online: A study of lesbian gamers
Authors: Zhang Zizhong , Mu Haixin , Chui Don Lok Tung
Published: November 2024

Building upon platform-swinging, this study introduces the concept of identity-driven “group-swinging” within a single platform, focusing on how users with multiple minority identities strategically curate corresponding identities through this process. Collecting all created and engaged posts ( n = 31,084) from 102 lesbian gamers in both lesbian gamer and female gamer groups, this research utilizes structural topic modeling to delineate their productive and consumptive curation across different groups. The results indicate that lesbian gamers often prioritize discussions on women and queer issues within the female gamer community while presenting a more gamer-centric identity in the lesbian gamer community. Group-swinging emerges as an optimal strategy for exploring a balance between belongingness and distinctiveness, enabling lesbian gamers to navigate their multiple minority identities effectively. This study enriches the understanding of identity curation and optimal distinctiveness theory, offering plausible strategies for the online resilience of marginalized groups within the polymedia context.
‘First I got one tear, and then I got a whole bunch’: fluidity and plasticine solidity in the world of Barbie
Authors: DiCaglio Sara
Published: November 2024

I consider the role of fluidity in Barbie (2023) as a mode of exploring femininity and ecological connections through embodiment. Barbie's relationship to fluid changes throughout the film. She learns to drink, learns to cry and thus, I argue in this article, slowly moves from plastic to flesh by opening into fluidity. Through attention to the fluidity inherent within the very definition of plastic, as well as the necessary taking in and leaking out of fluid exchange within the body, the plasticine world of Barbie, positions fluidity as a vital object of power within both feminine embodiment and feminist spaces. Using Barbie's relations with embodied fluidity through its plasticine solidity, I develop the notion of fluid relations to highlight the labour of our fluid interactions as well as their environmental tendrils. For feminist theory in the age of the Anthropocene, this article highlights the ways that biological, fluid relations take labour, leave traces, happen across shifting membranes and are both altered by and alter all they touch. Through this reading, I argue for a reinvigoration of our reading of bodily fluids in relation to a feminine excess within our embodied material world. But I also suggest that such a reinvigorated fluid reading must not forget our environmental relations: the fluidity at the heart of the plastic and the plastic at the heart of fluidity.
What fans crave: Including sports audiences in the reporting process through engagement journalism
Authors: Stamm Jason , Whiteside Erin
Published: November 2024

Even as local news organizations and their sports sections dwindle, Rivals.com, a subscription-based recruiting news site within the local sports news ecosystem is thriving. This study takes the intersection of Rivals’ success and the struggles of local sports journalism as its starting point. Using in-depth, long interviews with 21 Rivals subscribers, this research focuses on understanding the motivations behind users’ engagement (uses and gratifications) with the site, and, importantly, their willingness to contribute to the sustainability of the site through their paid subscription. The authors draw from the concept of engaged journalism to contextualize Rivals’ practices, and offer suggestions for how other local sports journalism organizations might capitalize from what draws users to Rivals.
Berlin and Brandenburg as “laboratories” of Jewish-Muslim encounter
Authors: Glöckner Olaf
Published: November 2024

Currently, Jewish and Muslim communities can be found as ethno-cultural minorities both in Berlin, the capital of Germany, and in the surrounding state of Brandenburg. While they sometimes differ greatly in religious and cultural life, both communities also share similar experiences - such as the (former) existence as immigrants, the image of the “cultural other” and the confrontation with group-related misanthropy (anti-Semitism and Islamophobia). Moreover, there are Jewish-Muslim encounters, there are forms of encounter between Muslims and Jews in the region, in different milieus and intercultural and interreligious projects that appear as a kind of “experimental laboratory”. Though, what are the differences, what are the similarities between the two groups? Finally, this article also relates to how October 7th 2023, Hamas’ brutal massacres of Israeli civilians and the subsequent war in the Gaza Strip influence relationships between Muslims and Jews in Berlin and Brandenburg today.
Hidden inequalities of ease: A practice-theoretical approach to understanding the links between social deprivation and diet
Authors: van Kesteren Rosa , Evans Adrian
Published: November 2024

Our comparative study uses practice-based understandings of behaviour to expose the hidden ‘inequalities of ease’ which underlie healthy eating behaviours in different socioeconomic circumstances. This adds depth to the well-established direct impacts of socioeconomic factors through illuminating the more subtle contextual factors which enhance these effects and reduce the ease of healthy eating in contexts of deprivation. Drawing on in-depth multi-method research with 25 mothers living in two contrasting areas of Bristol and a subsequent survey with 310 respondents, we illustrate how the materials, competences and meanings which shape our eating practices are socioeconomically patterned. What is the impact of socioeconomic differences in mundane materials such as dining tables? Or in the risks involved in developing skills related to unprocessed food preparation? Or in the prioritisation of ‘health’ among the many meanings of good food? In all of these examples we show that the materials, competences and meanings which are more likely to be associated with the practices of those who live in deprived areas serve to systematically skew easy unthinking eating habits away from the minimally-processed fruits and vegetables which were universally understood to be key to healthy eating. Applying a practice lens to inequalities in healthy eating in this way provides novel insights into how deeply structural inequalities are embedded in the microcosms of everyday life and how they affect the ease of eating healthily through shaping what we do unthinkingly on ‘autopilot’. Education and awareness-raising interventions which ignore the systematic skewing of easy unthinking eating practices cannot close the healthy eating gap, instead serving to justify blaming those who are already most disadvantaged for the inequalities in preventable ill-health which tax their wellbeing and take years off their lives.
Autonomous ecologies of construction: Collaborative modular robotic material eco-systems with deep multi-agent reinforcement learning
Authors: Hosmer Tyson , Mutis Sergio , Gheorghiu Octavian , Siedler Philipp , He Ziming , Erdincer Baris
Published: November 2024

To address the unprecedented challenges of construction pressurized by the global climate crisis, housing shortage, and growing shortage of skilled labor, this research presents a radical shift in the construction lifecycle of buildings, from linear processes that produce static continuous buildings to interrelational processes linking adaptative eco-systems of collaborative robots and reconfigurable building parts. Inspired by natural builders, the interdisciplinary field of collective robotic construction (CRC) offers the potential for scalable, adaptive, and resilient construction with simple robots. We establish a design framework for autonomous collaborative robotic construction (ACRC) through modular robotic material eco-systems (MRMES) trained with deep multi-agent reinforcement learning (DMARL). This involves the integration of three core aspects: (1) modular robotic material eco-systems (2) cyber-physical simulation and control with bidirectional feedback (3) adaptive intelligence through deep multi-agent reinforcement learning. The framework is implemented through three comparable case studies for collaborative modular robotic assembly of reconfigurable building parts.
A Co-produced International Qualitative Systematic Review on Lived Experiences of Trauma During Homelessness in Adulthood and Impacts on Mental Health
Authors: Adams Emma A , Brennan-Tovey Kerry , McGrath Joanne , Thirkle Steven , Jain Neha , Aquino Maria Raisa Jessica , Bartle Victoria , Kennedy Joanne , Ogden Margaret , Parker Jeff , Koehne Sophie , Kaner Eileen , Ramsay Sheena E
Published: November 2024

Trauma can be both a cause and a consequence of homelessness and has lasting impacts on mental health and wellbeing. Often research focusses on trauma and adversity in childhood leading to homelessness, but understanding traumatic experiences during adulthood homelessness can be just as important for informing intervention development and policies to mitigate and eradicate homelessness. Working with people with lived experience of homelessness, this review aimed to synthesis the qualitative evidence exploring the impact of trauma during homelessness on mental health (including substance use) from the perspective of adults (18 years of age and older) experiencing homelessness. Alongside gray literature, ASSIA, CINAHL, Cochrane, EMBASE, MEDLINE, Proquest theses and dissertations, PsychInfo, Scopus and Web of Science were searched from inception until February 2024. No language, date, or geographical limits were applied. A ‘best-fit’ framework synthesis of 26 papers, covering the experience of over 900 people, identified three overarching themes linked with the SAMHSA three E’s of trauma: 1) making sense of homelessness as a trauma, 2) dealing with the impacts of trauma and 3) responses to repeated exposure to trauma. Trauma rarely takes place in isolation and often prior experiences shape how people experiencing homelessness make sense and cope with trauma. Policy and prevention should prioritise early intervention to reduce the mental health burden of trauma and homelessness. Additionally, creating support that empowers and builds resilience will encourage more positive management strategies.
Local Morphologic and Hemodynamic Analyses for the Prediction of Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm Rupture Based on Patient-Specific CTA and Computational Modeling
Authors: Wang Jian , Chen Bing , Bai Zhixuan , Yang Tingting , Gao Fan
Published: November 2024

Objective:

Extensive research has focused on the evaluation of rupture risks in abdominal aortic aneurysms (AAAs) through comprehensive morphologic and hemodynamic analyses, primarily considering the AAA as a whole entity. This study tried to identify the high-risk rupture sites of AAAs more precisely before the fatal process based on morphologic and hemodynamic analyses at the local segment.

Methods:

Computed tomography angiography of a specific AAA patient was conducted at the follow-up 4 months before rupture, 1 day before rupture, the day of the rupture, and 15 days after endovascular aortic repair. The evolution of local morphology and the hemodynamic characteristics at these critical timepoints were investigated based on patient-specific reconstructions and computational fluid dynamics.

Results:

The morphologic and hemodynamic parameters of the rupture region vary continuously in the process of AAA development and rupture. The surface area and volume of the rupture segment were gradually enlarged at the follow-up 4 months before rupture (47.33 cm2; 67.35 mL), 1 day before rupture (57.23 cm2; 85.24 mL), and on the day of the rupture (62.41cm2; 104.73ml). A prominent decrease in time-averaged wall shear stress and velocity for the rupture segment is observed. The percentages of the lowest time-averaged wall shear stress (<0.1 Pa) area are increased in the AAA region (20.42%, 33.85%, and 53.00%, separately).

Conclusions:

The results based on precisely rebuilt geometries for the complete follow-ups of patient-specific computed tomography angiography demonstrate that notable morphologic and hemodynamic evolutions have occurred in the local segment of the AAA, which was further proved at the rupture site. The significant changes occurring at the local segment may provide valuable information for the evaluation of aneurysm rupture risk and locate the most probable site of rupture.

Clinical Impact

Capturing the entire process of AAA rupture through CTA imaging is a rare occurrence in clinical practice. The evolution of morphology and hemodynamic characteristics observed in the illustrated results provides valuable insights for clinicians to monitor the state of AAA from a different perspective. These findings suggest that variations in morphology and hemodynamics within the local segment of the AAA might serve as an alternative approach for predicting the rupture risk of AAA.
Assessing and Improving Medical-Spanish Language Proficiency Among Nursing Students
Authors: Kiraly Carmen , Grippi Christine , Castillo Daniela
Published: November 2024

Introduction: Language discordance among health care providers and patients has been shown to result in poor patient outcomes. Health care providers who identify as being proficient in the native language of their patients may decline the use of professional interpreters due to their self assessment of language proficiency. More information is needed about whether providers who speak Spanish are proficient in medical Spanish. This study measured medical-Spanish language proficiency among nursing students. Methods: A quantitative pretest posttest evaluation (N = 30) at a large private university in the northeastern U.S. compared student and faculty assessment of student language proficiency after taking a medical-Spanish course using the Interagency Language Roundtable (ILR). T-tests compared student's final, self-assessed ILR scores with faculty's final ILR scores. Results: A significant difference was noted between students’ self assessments and faculty assessments of student language proficiency (Rater 1: t(29) = –2.660, p = 0.013; Rater 2: t(29) = –2.693, p = 0.012) with high interrater reliability (kappa = 0.875). There was a significant difference between students’ self-assessment of language abilities before and after the course (t(29) = –3.694; p < 0.001). Conclusion: Objective assessment of medical-Spanish language proficiency following a medical Spanish course may more accurately measure proficiency than self-assessment alone.