bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Maternal upbringing and selective breeding for voluntary exercise behavior modify patterns of DNA methylation and expression of genes in the mouse brain
Authors: Latchney Sarah E. , Cadney Marcell D. , Hopkins Anthony , Garland Theodore
Published: July 2023

Selective breeding has been utilized to study the genetic basis of exercise behavior, but research suggests that epigenetic mechanisms, such as DNA methylation, also contribute to this behavior. In a previous study, we demonstrated that the brains of mice from a genetically selected high runner (HR) line have sex‐specific changes in DNA methylation patterns in genes known to be genomically imprinted compared to those from a non‐selected control (C) line. Through cross‐fostering, we also found that maternal upbringing can modify the DNA methylation patterns of additional genes. Here, we identify an additional set of genes in which DNA methylation patterns and gene expression may be altered by selection for increased wheel‐running activity and maternal upbringing. We performed bisulfite sequencing and gene expression assays of 14 genes in the brain and found alterations in DNA methylation and gene expression for Bdnf, Pde4d and Grin2b. Decreases in Bdnf methylation correlated with significant increases in Bdnf gene expression in the hippocampus of HR compared to C mice. Cross‐fostering also influenced the DNA methylation patterns for Pde4d in the cortex and Grin2b in the hippocampus, with associated changes in gene expression. We also found that the DNA methylation patterns for Atrx and Oxtr in the cortex and Atrx and Bdnf in the hippocampus were further modified by sex. Together with our previous study, these results suggest that DNA methylation and the resulting change in gene expression may interact with early‐life influences to shape adult exercise behavior.
A mechanism of melanogenesis mediated by E‐cadherin downregulation and its involvement in solar lentigines
Authors: Inoue Daigo , Narita Tomomi , Ono Takayuki , Ishikawa Keiko , Maeno Katsuyuki , Aoki Hirofumi , Motoyama Akira , Shibata Takako
Published: July 2023

Objective

Intensive studies have revealed that pleiotropic melanocytic factors are associated with age‐spot formation. Dysfunctional keratinocyte differentiation is thought to be an upstream cause of age‐spot formation. Although it has been shown that keratinocyte differentiation is mediated by the cell–cell contact factor E‐cadherin, its involvement in age‐spot formation remains unknown. Thus, to determine the origin of age‐spots and an integrated solution for the same, we focused on E‐cadherin expression in the present study.

Methods

First, we assessed the solar lentigines in cutaneous and cultured cells by means of immunofluorescence staining. Following that, keratinocytes treated with siRNAs against E‐cadherin were co‐cultured with melanocytes, and the secreted factors were identified by means of proteomic analysis of the culture supernatants. We also performed quantitative PCR to assess melanogenesis activity and screen ingredients. For behavioural analysis of melanocytes, we performed time‐lapse imaging using confocal laser scanning microscopy.

Results

E‐cadherin expression was downregulated in the epidermis of the solar lentigines, suggesting its involvement in age‐spot formation. E‐cadherin knocked down keratinocytes not only promoted the secretion of melanocytic/inflammatory factors but also increased melanogenesis by upregulating the expression of melanogenesis factors. Furthermore, live‐imaging showed that the downregulation of E‐cadherin inhibited melanocyte dynamics and accelerated melanin uptake. Finally, we identified Rosa multiflora fruit extract as a solution that can upregulate E‐cadherin expression in keratinocytes.

Conclusion

Our findings showed that E‐cadherin downregulation triggers various downstream melanocytic processes, such as the secretion of melanocytic factors and melanogenesis. Additionally, we showed that the Rosa multiflora fruit extract upregulated E‐cadherin expression in keratinocytes.
Predictive factors for postoperative medication therapy for overactive bladder symptoms after holmium laser enucleation of prostate
Authors: Kim Sung Jin , Park Sung Gon , Pak Sahyun , Kwon Ohseong , Lee Young Goo , Cho Sung Tae
Published: July 2023

Objective

To preoperative factors that could predict the persisting storage symptoms after Holmium laser enucleation of the prostate (HoLEP).

Methods

Medical records of 257 patients who underwent HoLEP between December 2014 and January 2021 were reviewed. Participants with a follow‐up period exceeding 6 months were included. Preoperative data, including International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS), uroflowmetry, prostate size, and prostate‐specific antigen, were collected. All participants underwent a preoperative urodynamic study. The correlation between perioperative variables and postoperative medication therapy (antimuscarinics or beta‐3 agonists) was assessed.

Results

Out of 257 participants in the study, 46 (18.6%) were allocated to the medication group, of which 25 (54.3%) initiated medication therapy postoperatively. The medication group showed worse postoperative IPSS storage symptom score and quality of life score compared to the medication‐free group (p = 0.048 and p = 0.002, respectively), but no significant differences were observed in complications or operative variables. In the de‐novo medication group, patients had lower preoperative Qmax, larger prostate volume, and smaller maximum cystometric capacity (MCC) compared to the persisting medication group (p = 0.020, p = 0.009, and p = 0.008, respectively). Overactive bladder (OAB) history, terminal detrusor overactivity (DO), and IPSS urgency item were identified as possible predictive factors for post‐HoLEP medication use.

Conclusions

Preoperative factors such as OAB history, terminal DO, and IPSS urgency item may predict the need for post‐HoLEP medication therapy. Further follow‐up studies are warranted to understand the characteristics of the de‐novo medication group due to the significant discomfort it can cause to patients.
Machine translation in language acquisition: A study on EFL students' perceptions and practices in Saudi Arabia and South Korea
Authors: Almusharraf Asma , Bailey Daniel
Published: July 2023

Background

Language learners are taking advantage of the increased accuracy afforded by machine translation (MT) tools like Google Translate. There is a growing debate as to whether these tools support or hinder English as a foreign language (EFL) education. Some EFL students are drawn to MT tools to save time and energy when communicating, but how this use relates to second language acquisition needs to be clarified.

Objective

This study investigated the perceptions and practices of MT tools among university EFL students in Saudi Arabia and South Korea.

Methods

The study surveyed Saudi (n = 310) and South Korean (n = 160) university students to explore the use of MT tools in EFL learning. It used mean scores, correlation analysis, and structural equation modelling to understand the perceived benefits and limitations of MT tools and their influence on the use of translation websites. The findings were triangulated using content analysis of open‐ended items.

Results and Conclusion

Findings indicate students showed a high level of acceptance and utilization of MT tools. English avoidance behaviour (B = 0.43), benefits (B = 0.32), and foreign language proficiency (B = −0.19) predicted 61% of actual use of MT tools like Google Translate. Further, students frequently used MT tools despite the reported concerns about accuracy mistakes. Saudi students listed a more comprehensive array of why they use MT tools than Korean students, while Saudis and Koreans frequently used MT tools for individual word and sentence translations.

Implications

Students should edit MT output when writing and are encouraged to use the voice recording and other functions of MT tools to learn language skills. Instructors must prevent overuse and dependency on MT tools, especially among low‐proficiency students who want to avoid using English.
Evaluation of custom posts and cores fabricated by two digital technologies in core and post space dimensions
Authors: Wu Yumin , Qi Haowen , Wang Danlei , Liao Mengyuan , Zhang Yuhang , Zhang Juan , Xie Haifeng
Published: July 2023

Purpose

To evaluate the adaptability between posts and post spaces and the rationality of cores fabricated by two digital custom post‐and‐core processes.

Materials and Methods

Titanium post‐and‐cores were fabricated by digital scanning impression technology or digital scanning wax‐pattern technology on tooth defect molds of incisors, premolars, and molars, with traditional lost‐wax casts of these teeth as the controls. Micro‐CT and a laboratory scanner were used to determine intervals between post wall and root canal wall of the root apex, middle, and cervix of each sample in cross‐, sagittal, and coronal sections; intervals between the end of post and tooth; diameters of cervical, middle, and incisal part at cross‐, sagittal, and coronal sections of each sample, as well as shoulder widths.

Results

The three fabrication processes showed significant differences in intervals between post‐and‐core prostheses and root canal walls, diameters of all parts of cores, and shoulder widths. Scanning impressions showed significant advantages in the main part of post‐and‐cores in incisors and premolars, while the scanning wax‐pattern process showed obvious inferiorities in premolars and molars. As to core spatial size, values of measured sites in the scanning impression process were closer to the standard than those of the traditional process, while differences between the measured value of the scanning wax‐pattern process were much more obvious than in the traditional process.

Conclusions

The use of digital custom post‐and‐core scanning impressions improved the rationality and precision of post‐and‐core dimensions compared with two other processes.
Going it alone: Examining interpersonal sensitivity and hostility as mediators of the link between perfectionism and social disconnection
Authors: Visvalingam Shanara , Magson Natasha R. , Newins Amie R. , Norberg Melissa M.
Published: July 2023

Objective

Perfectionism is linked to a variety of mental health conditions in university students. The Perfectionism Social Disconnection Model posits that perfectionistic individuals exhibit off‐putting interpersonal behaviors (i.e., rejection sensitivity and hostility), which lead to social disconnection, and in turn contribute to psychological distress. Although several longitudinal studies have found that social disconnection mediates the link between perfectionistic traits and psychological distress, less is known about how perfectionism leads to social disconnection. The present study aimed to address this gap.

Methods

A sample of 877 university students completed one survey a month for three consecutive months.

Results

Our random‐intercept cross‐lagged panel model results showed significant positive associations between the random intercepts of socially prescribed and self‐oriented perfectionism with rejection sensitivity, hostility, and loneliness, with stronger associations for socially prescribed perfectionism. In addition, the random intercept of other‐oriented perfectionism showed positive associations with hostility but not rejection sensitivity or loneliness. Moreover, almost all cross‐lagged paths were nonsignificant.

Conclusion

Collectively, these findings indicate that although perfectionistic traits may be associated with rejection sensitivity and hostility to varying degrees at the between‐person level, these behaviors may not cause social disconnection at the within‐person level.
Religious Ethics as a Social Practice
Authors: Balthrop‐Lewis Alda
Published: July 2023

The Journal of Religious Ethics (JRE) was established at a particular moment in the United States in the early 1970s. This article investigates how that moment—in the institutional milieu of academic theology and religious studies in which the (JRE) emerged—influenced its founding. It does this through attention to three main sources: (1) the original charter and bylaws of the JRE, (2) publications from the JRE and other scholarly outlets in the period, and (3) a collection of interviews with scholars who occupied editorial roles in the first 10 years of the life of the journal. The article suggests that the JRE's early period was driven by three key forces: the emergence of Christian ethics as a field of academic theology, deepening engagement with academic philosophy among students of Christian ethics, and growing attention to the pedagogical requirements of increasingly pluralist tertiary educational environments. In conclusion, I describe my own place in this history, asking how the dynamics around the founding of the JRE shape my participation in the practice enacted in its pages.
Are female CEOs associated with lower insolvency risk? Evidence from the US property‐casualty insurance industry
Authors: Li Jing , Cheng Jiang
Published: July 2023

This paper investigates the relationship between female CEOs and insolvency risk of US property‐casualty insurance companies. We show that female CEOs are associated with lower insurer insolvency propensity, higher z‐score, and lower standard deviation of return on assets. These findings are robust to alternative econometric specifications to address potential endogeneity concerns and self‐selection issues, including propensity score matching, the instrumental variable approach, and the difference‐in‐difference approach. Furthermore, we find that the impact of female CEOs on insurer insolvency risk is moderated by firm capitalization, the presence of female directors, and political conservatism of insurers' home states.
A blinded, placebo‐controlled study on the clinical effects of vitamin E supplementation in dogs with osteoarthritis
Authors: Gordon Casey L. , Reeves Samantha J. , Burchell Richard K. , Thomson Craig , Gal Arnon , Lopez‐Villalobos Nicolas , Webster Natalie S. L. , Litster Kimberley M. , Mitchell Richard A. S.
Published: July 2023

Background

Vitamin E has a positive effect in the management of osteoarthritis in humans, and in a previous study of dogs. It has been suggested to decrease C‐reactive protein concentrations and liver enzyme activities in humans and animals.

Objective

To assess the effect of vitamin E supplementation on lameness, pain, pain medication requirement, clinical pathology variables, and quality of life in large‐breed dogs with naturally occurring osteoarthritis.

Animals

Fifty‐seven client‐owned dogs with naturally occurring osteoarthritis.

Methods

Dogs received either vitamin E or placebo for 90 days in a randomized, placebo‐controlled, double‐blinded, prospective clinical trial. Clinical lameness scores, pain medication requirements, and owner questionnaires were used to assess response to treatment every 30 days. Blood samples were collected at enrollment and at the end of the study period.

Results

Vitamin E administration did not improve pain, lameness, or quality of life as assessed by owners and veterinarians. Vitamin E supplementation did not decrease the requirement for rescue pain relief. No changes in clinical pathology variables were observed after 90 days of vitamin E supplementation. Body weight was negatively associated with the lameness scores and requirement for rescue pain relief.

Conclusion

Vitamin E supplementation did not have any observable positive effects in dogs with naturally occurring osteoarthritis.
Will social scientists’ never‐ending disputes over words ever end?
Authors: Abend Gabriel
Published: July 2023

Social science literatures are rife with disputes over their key words. I show that they tend to conflate two activities. One of them I call “word goes first!” It concerns word uses and how to appraise them. The other I call “distinction goes first!” It concerns distinctions and classifications and how to appraise them. For each activity, social science communities should get clear on what to do, what to circumvent, and what's at stake. I argue that both are practical reason activities. They should be partly driven by the common good, justice, and equality.
Non‐ossifying fibroma of the mandible: A case report and review of the literature
Authors: Clark Mollie , Brierley Daniel J. , Chan Chi‐Hwa , Hughes David , Shadid Omar
Published: July 2023

The case reported here is a large non‐ossifying fibroma (NOF) of the mandible presenting in a 24‐year‐old male patient. The lesion was diagnosed through radiological and histopathological assessment. It remains under observation without surgical intervention, despite its large size, as the extensive surgery to remove it is not currently justifiable. Whilst common at the metaphysis of the long bones in paediatric patients, NOFs are rarely observed in the jaw bones. These benign fibrous lesions are often asymptomatic and may be an incidental radiological finding. Most NOFs of the limbs presenting in children will not require any treatment, and spontaneously resolve when growth ceases. However, regarding mandibular lesions, the majority of historical cases have been successfully treated with curettage and do not recur. Due to their scarcity, the outcomes for untreated NOFs of the gnathic bones are not reliably known. We discuss the clinical, radiological and histopathological findings for this case. A thorough literature review of previous reports of this rare entity reveals the typical characteristics and behaviour of this lesion.
What's inside a sauropod limb? First three‐dimensional investigation of the limb long bone microanatomy of a sauropod dinosaur, Nigersaurus taqueti (Neosauropoda, Rebbachisauridae), and implications for the weight‐bearing function
Authors: Lefebvre Rémi , Allain Ronan , Houssaye Alexandra
Published: July 2023

Various terrestrial tetrapods convergently evolved to gigantism (large body sizes and masses), the most extreme case being sauropod dinosaurs. Heavy weight‐bearing taxa often show external morphological features related to this condition, but also adequacy in their limb bone inner structure: a spongiosa filling the medullary area and a rather thick cortex varying greatly in thickness along the shaft. However, the microanatomical variation in such taxa remains poorly known, especially between different limb elements. We highlight for the first time the three‐dimensional microstructure of the six limb long bone types of a sauropod dinosaur, Nigersaurus taqueti. Sampling several specimens of different sizes, we explored within‐bone, between‐bones, and size‐related variations. If a spongiosa fills the medullary area of all bones, the cortex is rather thin and varies only slightly in thickness along the shaft. Zeugopod bones appear more compact than stylopod ones, whereas no particular differences between serially homologous bones are found. Nigersaurus' pattern appears much less extreme than that in heavy terrestrial taxa such as rhinoceroses, but is partly similar to observations in elephants and in two‐dimensional sauropod data. Thus, microanatomy may have not been the predominant feature for weight‐bearing in sauropods. External features, such as columnarity (shared with elephants) and postcranial pneumaticity, may have played a major role for this function, thus relaxing pressures on microanatomy. Also, sauropods may have been lighter than expected for a given size. Our study calls for further three‐dimensional investigations, eventually yielding a framework characterizing more precisely how sauropod gigantism may have been possible.
Findings from a randomized controlled trial of Metacognitive Reflection and Insight Therapy for people with schizophrenia: Effects on metacognition and symptoms
Authors: Hasson‐Ohayon Ilanit , Igra Libby , Lavi‐Rotenberg Adi , Goldzweig Gil , Lysaker Paul H.
Published: July 2023

Background

Research has suggested that people diagnosed with schizophrenia experience challenges in their abilities to reflect upon themselves, others and their actions in the world. One emerging approach to addressing these forms of subjective disturbance is Metacognitive Reflection and Insight Therapy (MERIT).

Aims

In this study, a randomized delayed trial was conducted to assess the effects of MERIT upon metacognition, psychiatric symptoms and quality of life.

Materials and Methods

Following recruitment and randomization, data from 54 adults diagnosed with schizophrenia were analysed.

Results

Findings included significant interaction effects between group (immediate intervention or waiting condition) and time (pre‐ and post intervention) with regard to the metacognition general score and its domain of mastery, as well as with regard to negative, positive and cognitive symptoms.

Discussion

Participating in MERIT seems to improve one's ability to use reflective knowledge to cope with psychological challenges and to improve, or at least maintain, level of symptomatology.

Conclusions

These findings are discussed within the framework of agency as an important aspect of recovery.
Rice DSP controls stigma, panicle and tiller primordium initiation
Authors: Yu Li , Yao Min , Mao Lianlian , Ma Tengfei , Nie Yanshen , Ma Haoli , Shao Kun , An Hongqiang , Zhao Jie
Published: July 2023

Tiller and seed number are key determinants of rice (Oryza sativa) yield. These traits are mainly affected by tiller, panicle, spikelet and stigma formation, but to date, no single gene involved in the development of all these organs has been identified. Here, we found a rice mutant defective stigma and panicle (dsp) with greatly reduced numbers of tillers and panicle branches, and ovaries lacking stigmas, due to defects in primordium initiation. We cloned DSP using sequencing‐based mapping and verified its function with the CRISPR/Cas9 system. DSP encodes a transcription factor containing an APETALA2/ETHYLENE RESPONSE FACTOR (AP2/ERF) domain that recognizes the GCC motif and a transcription‐activating domain at the site of 244–314 that contains an angiosperm‐related (AR) motif. Mutating the AR motif resulted in the dsp mutant phenotypes, whereas mutating the AP2/ERF domain led to seedling death. DSP directly regulated PINOID (PID) expression to determine the emergence of rice stigmas, and PID overexpression partially rescued the stigma defect in the dsp cr2‐8 and dsp mutants. Moreover, DSP indirectly affected LAX PANICLE1 (LAX1) expression to determine tiller primordium formation and synergistically regulated panicle primordium development. Our results indicated that DSP was a key regulator that modulated different genetic pathways to control the initiation of stigma primordia, the axillary meristem formation of tillers and panicle branches, which revealed their molecular mechanisms and cross‐networks, laying the vital foundation for rice yield and trait improvement.
Multidisciplinary and multidimensional approaches to transplantation in children with rare genetic kidney diseases
Authors: George Roshan P. , Winterberg Pamela D. , Garro Rouba
Published: July 2023

In this review, we describe the multidisciplinary, multidimensional care required to optimize outcomes for pediatric transplant recipients with rare genetic kidney diseases. Transplant success, recipient survival, and improvement in quality of life depend on collaboration between patients, families, and a team of specialists with medical, as well as nonmedical expertise. A multidisciplinary transplant team composed of experts from medicine, surgery, nursing, nutrition, social services, transplant coordination, psychology, and pharmacology, is now standard in most transplant centers and is critical to the success of a transplant. In addition to these professionals, other specialists, such as cardiologists, urologists, geneticists, metabolic disease specialists, occupational therapists, case management, child life, chaplain, and palliative care services, have a crucial role to play in the preparation, surgery, and follow‐up care, especially when a pediatric patient has a rare genetic disorder leading to renal involvement, and the need for transplantation. In order to describe this multidisciplinary care, we divide the genetic renal diseases into five subgroups—metabolic and tubular disorders, glomerular diseases, congenital anomalies of the kidney and urinary tract, ciliopathies including cystic diseases, and miscellaneous renal conditions; and describe for each, the need for care beyond that provided by the standard transplant team members.
CsBPC2 is a key regulator of root growth and development
Authors: Feng Xiaojie , Li Shuzhen , Meng Di , Di Qinghua , Zhou Mengdi , Yu Xianchang , He Chaoxing , Yan Yan , Wang Jun , Sun Mintao , Li Yansu
Published: July 2023

BASIC PENTACYSTEINE (BPCs) transcription factors are important regulators of plant growth and development. However, the regulatory mechanism of BPC2 in roots remains unclear. In our previous study, we created Csbpc2 cucumber mutants by the CRISPR/Cas9 system, and our studies on the phenotype of Csbpc2 mutants showed that the root growth was inhibited compared with wide‐type (WT). Moreover, the surface area, volume and number of roots decreased significantly, with root system architecture changing from dichotomous branching to herringbone branching. Compared with WT, the leaf growth of the Csbpc2 mutants was not affected. However, the palisade and spongy tissue were significantly thinner, which was not beneficial for photosynthesis. The metabolome of root exudates showed that compared with WT, amino acids and their derivatives were significantly decreased, and the enriched pathways were mainly regulated by amino acids and their derivatives, indicating that knockout of CsBPC2 mainly affected the amino acid content in root exudates. Importantly, transcriptome analysis showed that knockout of CsBPC2 mainly affected root gene expression. Knockout of CsBPC2 significantly reduced the gene expression of gibberellins synthesis. However, the expression of genes related to amino acid synthesis, nitrogen fixation and PSII‐related photosynthesis increased significantly, which may be due to the effect of knocking out CsBPC2 on gibberellins synthesis, resulting in the inhibition of seedling growth, thus forming negative feedback regulation. Generally, we showed for the first time that BPC2 is a key regulator gene of root growth and development, laying the foundation for future mechanisms of BPC2 regulation in roots.
Treatable traits, combination inhaler therapy and the future of asthma management
Authors: Gibson Peter G. , McDonald Vanessa M. , Thomas Dennis
Published: July 2023

The landscape of asthma has considerably changed in the last decade. Effective medications and inhaler devices have been developed and integrated into the asthma pharmacopoeia, but unfortunately, the proportion of uncontrolled patients remains unacceptably high. This is now recognized to be mainly due to the inappropriate use of medications or inhaler devices, heterogeneity of the disease or other factors contributing to the disease. Currently, inhaled corticosteroids (ICS), with or without long‐acting beta agonists (LABA), are the cornerstone of asthma management, and recently international guidelines recognized the importance of combination inhaler therapy (ICS/LABA) even in mild asthma. In future, ultra‐long‐acting personalized medications and smart inhalers will complement combination inhaler therapy in order to effectively addresses issues such as adherence, inhaler technique and polypharmacy (both of drugs and devices). Asthma is now acknowledged as a multifaceted cluster of disorders and the treatment model has evolved from one‐size‐fits‐all to precision medicine approaches such as treatable traits (TTs, defined as measurable and treatable clinically important factors) which encourages the quality use of medications and identification and management of all underlying behavioural and biological treatable risk factors. TT requires research and validation in a clinical context and the implementation strategies and efficacy in various settings (primary/secondary/tertiary care, low‐middle income countries) and populations (mild/moderate/severe asthma) are currently evolving. Combination inhaler therapy and the TTs approach are complementary treatment approaches. This review examines the current status of personalized medicine and combination inhaler therapy, and describes futuristic views for these two strategies.
The effect of fatigue on spike jump biomechanics in view of patellar tendon loading in volleyball
Authors: Vermeulen Stefan , De Bleecker Camilla , Spanhove Valentien , Segers Veerle , Willems Tine , Roosen Philip , Vanrenterghem Jos , De Ridder Roel
Published: July 2023

Background and Objective

Patellar tendinopathy (PT) is a highly prevalent overuse injury in volleyball and is often linked with overloading of the patellar tendon. Little is known, however, about whether and how patellar tendon loading is affected by fatigue during the most challenging jump activity in volleyball. Therefore, this study investigates the effect of a high‐intensity, intermittent fatigue protocol on movement alterations in terms of patellar tendon loading during a volleyball spike jump.

Methods

Forty‐three male volleyball players participated in this study. Three‐dimensional full‐body kinematics and kinetics were collected when performing a spike jump before and after the fatigue protocol. Sagittal plane joint angles, joint work and patellar tendon loading were calculated and analyzed with curve analyses using paired sample t‐tests to investigate fatigue effects (p < 0.05).

Results

Fatigue induced a stiffer lower extremity landing strategy together with prolonged pelvis‐trunk flexion compared to baseline (p = 0.001–0.005). Decreased patellar tendon forces (p = 0.001–0.010) and less eccentric knee joint work (−5%, p < 0.001) were observed after the fatigue protocol compared to baseline.

Conclusion

Protective strategies seem to be utilized in a fatigued state to avoid additional tensile forces acting on the patellar tendon, including proximal compensations and stiff lower extremity landings. We hypothesize that players might be more prone for developing PT if eccentric patellar tendon loads are high in the non‐fatigued state and/or these loads are somehow not decreased after fatigue.
On the use of an induced temperature gradient and full‐field measurements to investigate and model the thermomechanical behaviour of an austenitic stainless steel 316
Authors: Soares Guilherme C. , Rubio Ruiz Arturo , Hokka Mikko
Published: July 2023

A temperature gradient was induced in 316 stable austenitic stainless‐steel tension specimens, and the strain and temperature evolution during tensile deformation was monitored using optical and infrared cameras. The combination of global load with full‐field strain and temperature provided local information on the thermomechanical state of the investigated material. The deformation did not fully concentrate on the hotter portion of the specimen, but instead, the hottest portion strain hardened enough so that the colder portions of the specimen also experienced plastic deformation. Evidently, heat release occurred with plastic deformation and altered the initial temperature gradient as deformation progressed. The Taylor–Quinney coefficient was computed in integral and differential forms, and both are presented as a function of temperature and strain. The Johnson–Cook plasticity model was calibrated through an inverse method procedure in which only five tests were used, and the obtained temperature and strain rate dependencies of the model were comparable to those found in the literature for the same material. A local analysis was done to quantify the impact of adiabatic heating on the mechanical behaviour of the material.
The Survey of the Use of Video cases in the Pre-service Teacher Education in China
Authors: Liu Jixin , Abu Hassan Sazalli Nurhasmiza
Published: July 2023

Traditional teacher education overemphasizes know-what and know-about attributes of theories. There is always a disjuncture between theories and practicalities in teaching education. Video case is an effective tool for teacher education to bridge theory and practice. Video cases provide pre-service teachers with early scaffolding for pedagogical preparation in respect of understanding of curriculum, teaching skills, students, and pedagogical uses of course content. This research addressed the importance of video cases and the way of using it in teacher education through combing through literature review and investigated the attitudes of student teachers towards the use of video cases in pre-service teacher education in China. It is found that 37.5% of the respondents claimed that the lack of video cases is the biggest barrier in the development of teaching competence. And the lack of practice (84.4%) and the lack of guidance from the experts (50%) are comparatively more serious than the lack of video cases. Based on the student teachers’ problems and suggestions, a new teacher training model－two cycle video-case based lesson study is proposed to connect theory with practice in the present research. Video-case based lesson study allows the practice to prepare student teachers to become confident and competent novice teachers in the future.
Unmasking Reliable News: An Investigation of University Students' Search for Trustworthy Information during the Pandemic
Authors: New KuwiHoi , Liew Jia Yee
Published: July 2023

The COVID-19 pandemic has been accompanied by a deluge of misinformation and falsehoods about the virus, which have made it challenging to discern facts from fake news. This study aims to investigate the correlation between university students' background and their knowledge of fake news, as well as their perception of their ability to distinguish between facts and fake news. Data was collected through an online Google Form as the pandemic intensified, and it became imperative to contain the spread of COVID-19. This study utilised quantitative cross sectional survey design with purposive sampling to select active social media users who are studying full time programs from a private higher learning institution as the research samples. The collected data of 261 respondents was then analysed using Social Science Statistical Software (SPSS) and Excel. The study's findings reveal that most university students have a commendable level of knowledge about fake news, which empowers them to differentiate between factual information and fake news. However, the study also indicates that the level of education of college students does not significantly affect their knowledge of fake news or their ability to recognize the differences between fake news and facts. Furthermore, the research demonstrates that there is a positive correlation between knowledge of fake news and the ability to distinguish between fake news and real news. In conclusion, this study's results suggest that university students possess a good understanding of fake news and are capable of differentiating it from factual information. The findings imply that there is a need to prioritize teaching critical thinking skills to all students to equip them to effectively combat misinformation and fake news.
Impak Pentaksiran Pendidikan Pintar dan Berbakat Integrasi Naqli dan Aqli (IGEd)
Authors: Mohamad Jan Nurhidaya , Kaco Hatika , Mohd Idris Fadzidah , Mohd Siti Munirah
Published: July 2023

In the era of Education 4.0, various concepts of learning and assessment are introduced along with the advancement of technology. In schools, teachers no longer focus on summative assessment but now implement the concept of continuous classroom assessment. Classroom assessment can be implemented through formative and summative methods, which can be used as learning, for learning, and about learning. At Kolej GENIUS Insan (KGI), integrated assessment using the concept of gifted and talented education assessment (IGEd) has been implemented since the year of 2020 during COVID-19 pandemic. This assessment concept integrates STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) subjects with language, social and religious elements. This study has been divided into two phases, namely the development of IGEd assessment at KGI in the first phase and followed by the second phase, which is the collection of lecturers' feedback on the implementation of IGEd assessment. In the second phase, a questionnaire survey was conducted on 20 lecturers at KGI regarding the implementation of assessment to obtain feedback from lecturers through purposive sampling and convenience sampling. In addition, this study also discusses the impact of smart and gifted education assessment of naqli and aqli integration on students, educators, families, society and the country.
Abstrak:
Di era Pendidikan 4.0, pelbagai konsep pembelajaran dan pentaksiran diperkenalkan seiring dengan kemajuan teknologi di zaman ini. Di sekolah, guru-guru tidak lagi terlalu fokus kepada pentaksiran sumatif sahaja, malah sekarang turut dilaksanakan konsep pentaksiran berterusan bilik darjah. Pentaksiran Bilik Darjah boleh dilaksanakan melalui dua kaedah iaitu secara formatif dan sumatif di mana ianya boleh dijadikan sebagai pembelajaran, untuk pembelajaran dan tentang pembelajaran. Di Kolej GENIUS Insan (KGI), pentaksiran bersepadu menggunakan konsep pentaksiran pendidikan pintar dan berbakat integrasi naqli dan aqli (IGEd) telah dilaksanakan bermula pada tahun 2020 ketika pandemik COVID-19. Konsep pentaksiran ini menggabungjalinkan elemen STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) dengan elemen bahasa, sastera dan agama. Kajian ini telah dibahagikan kepada dua fasa iaitu pembangunan pentaksiran IGEd di KGI pada fasa pertama dan diikuti dengan fasa kedua, iaitu pengumpulan maklum balas pensyarah terhadap pelaksanaan pentaksiran IGEd. Pada fasa kedua, kajian soal selidik telah dijalankan ke atas 20 orang pensyarah di KGI terhadap pelaksanaan pentaksiran bagi memperoleh maklum balas pensyarah melalui kaedah pensampelan bertujuan dan persampelan mudah. Selain itu, kajian ini juga membincangkan tentang impak pentaksiran pendidikan pintar dan berbakat integrasi naqli dan aqli kepada murid, pendidik, keluarga, masyarakat dan negara.
Tahap Kemahiran Penggunaan Alat Teknologi Pendidikan dalam Kalangan Guru Sains dan Matematik di Sekolah Menengah: Pedagogi dan Teknikal
Authors: Md Noor Norah , Engku Azman Tengku Farahnorfadhilah
Published: July 2023

The purpose of this study is to investigate the level of educational technology skills from pedagogical and technical aspects in teaching and learning of science and mathematics teachers in secondary schools in the Federal Territory of Kuala Lumpur. The study employs a simple random sampling method to select 320 science and mathematics teachers from 292 secondary schools under the Education Department of the Federal Territory of Kuala Lumpur (JPWPKL). A questionnaire was used to collect data from respondents, and the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) was used to analyze the data using descriptive and inferential statistical methods. The analysis results indicate that science and mathematics teachers in secondary schools in the Federal Territory of Kuala Lumpur have high levels of pedagogical and technical skills. The results also showed no significant difference in levels of pedagogical and technical skills based on race and education level. However, there are significant differences in levels of pedagogical and technical skills based on gender and teaching experience. The results of this study can serve as a foundation for designing targeted professional development programs for science and mathematics teachers in the Federal Territory of Kuala Lumpur.
Abstrak:
Kajian ini bertujuan mengkaji tahap kesediaan penggunaan alat teknologi pendidikan dalam kalangan guru sains dan matematik sekolah menengah di Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur. Kesediaan penggunaan alat teknologi guru diukur berdasarkan Indeks Kesediaan Teknologi (TRI) dan perkaitannya dengan tahap kemahiran pedagogi dan tahap kemahiran teknikal. Teknik persampelan rawak mudah digunakan dalam kajian ini untuk memilih sampel. Sampel yang dipilih adalah seramai 320 guru bidang sains dan matematik dari 292 buah sekolah menengah di bawah pentadbiran Jabatan Pendidikan Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur (JPWPKL). Soal selidik digunakan sebagai instrumen pengumpulan data kajian dari responden terlibat. Data kajian dianalisis melalui kaedah statistik secara deskriptif dan inferensi dengan menggunakan perisian Statistical Package for Social Science (SPSS). Hasil analisis data yang diperoleh menunjukkan bahawa tahap kemahiran pedagogi dan kemahiran teknikal guru sains dan matematik sekolah menengah di Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur adalah di tahap tinggi. Hasil kajian juga menunjukkan tiada perbezaan yang signifikan dalam tahap kemahiran pedagogi dan teknikal berdasarkan kaum dan tahap pendidikan. Walau bagaimanapun, terdapat perbezaan yang ketara dalam tahap kemahiran pedagogi dan teknikal berdasarkan jantina dan pengalaman mengajar. Hasil kajian ini boleh dijadikan asas untuk mereka bentuk program pembangunan profesional yang disasarkan untuk guru sains dan matematik di Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur.
Potensi e-Modul dalam Pembelajaran Bahasa Arab pada Era Globalisasi
Authors: Mohd. Taqwudin Mohd. Yazid  , Wan Muhammad Wan Sulong  , Nik Farhan Mustapha  , Mohd Azidan Abdul Jabar
Published: July 2023

Computer-Assisted Language Learning and e-learning are among the features that characterize Arabic language learning in the 21st century and the era of the Fourth Industrial Revolution. The presence of e-modules that incorporate these features into the online Arabic language learning landscape has successfully ensured the continuity of teaching and learning processes amidst the COVID-19 pandemic. This study aims to explore the potential and effectiveness of e-modules in Arabic language teaching and learning. The study adopts a qualitative approach and utilizes a literature review methodology. Data collection involves reviewing past studies and relevant documents, which are then analyzed descriptively. The findings reveal five main potentials identified, namely, e-modules operating through various Internet of Things (IoT) based products, e-modules serving as a virtual learning alternative, e-modules that can be used anytime and anywhere, e-modules rich in multimedia elements, e-modules employing personalized learning approaches, and e-modules fostering responsible technology use. The study also suggests further in-depth research in the future regarding the trends in the development of Arabic language e-modules based on the insights gained from previous studies, in order to strengthen this field.
Abstrak:

Pembelajaran Bahasa Berbantukan Komputer dan e-pembelajaran adalah antara ciri-ciri yang mencorakkan pembelajaran bahasa Arab pada era Pembelajaran Abad ke-21 dan era Revolusi Industri 4.0. Kehadiran e-modul yang mengadunkan dua ciri tersebut ke dalam landskap pembelajaran bahasa Arab secara dalam talian berjaya memastikan kelangsungan proses pengajaran dan pembelajaran (PdP) di tengah penularan pandemik COVID-19. Kajian ini bertujuan untuk merungkai potensi e-modul dan keberkesanan dalam PdP bahasa Arab. Kajian ini adalah berbentuk kualitatif dan menggunakan pendekatan kajian kepustakaan. Pengumpulan data kajian melibatkan penelitian bahan literatur kajian lepas dan dokumen berkaitan yang seterusnya dianalisis secara deskriptif. Hasil kajian mendapati terdapat lima potensi utama yang dikenalpasti iaitu e-modul beroperasi melalui sebarang produk berasaskan Internet of Things (IoT), e-modul sebuah alternatif pembelajaran secara maya, e-modul boleh digunakan tanpa mengira waktu dan tempat, e-modul kaya dengan elemen multimedia, e-modul menggunakan pendekatan pembelajaran yang diperibadikan dan e-modul memupuk cara menggunakan teknologi dengan sewajarnya. Kajian turut mencadangkan agar penelitian lebih mendalam pada masa akan datang berhubung trend perkembangan e-modul bahasa Arab berdasarkan sorotan kajian lepas dijalankan agar bidang tersebut boleh diperkasakan.
SMARTPHONE ADDICTION AND LONELINESS AMONG STUDENTS
Authors: Zamri Zahirah Eizzaty , Yusof Junaidah , Yasin Yusma Fariza , Ibrahim Amalina , Panatik Siti Aisyah , Ang Kean Hua , Abdul Karim Zamri Norena
Published: July 2023

Smartphones are becoming necessary in an individual’s daily life, especially when everything is within the palm. Smartphone becomes problematic when there is uncontrolled usage, which could harm various aspects. Loneliness can occur when an individual is alone and even surrounded by people. In order to further explore the correlation between smartphone addiction and loneliness, this study is conducted to identify the association between smartphone addiction and loneliness among undergraduate students in Malaysia. A total of 308 undergraduate students from Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM) were involved in this study. The instruments used were Smartphone Addiction Scale Short Version (SAS-SV) and UCLA Loneliness Scale (Version 3). The results indicate that 60.7% of participants reported having a moderate smartphone addiction, and 42.24% had a moderately high level of loneliness. Pearson’s Correlation results show a significantly weak positive relationship between smartphone addiction and loneliness among undergraduate students. This finding can give insight into smartphone addiction and loneliness, contribute data to future studies, and recommend initiatives to improve undergraduate students’ well-being.
LONELINESS AND RELATIONSHIP SATISFACTION AMONG MARRIED COUPLES DURING COVID-19 PANDEMIC: RELATIONSHIP EFFICACY AS A MODERATOR
Authors: Teoh Xi Yao , Tan Soon Aun , Ooh Seow Ling
Published: July 2023

Background: The significant changes in daily routines of the COVID-19 pandemic have impacted relationship satisfaction among marital couples worldwide. Married couples who experienced loneliness during the COVID-19 pandemic may lead to low relationship satisfaction. However, relationship efficacy could buffer the direct association of loneliness with relationship satisfaction. Objectives: This study aimed to examine the relationship between loneliness and relationship satisfaction among married couples during the COVID-19 pandemic by using relationship efficacy as a moderator. Methodology: 150 married couples participated in the cross-sectional quantitative online survey. The self-administered questionnaires consisted of UCLA 3-item Loneliness Scale, Relationship Assessment Scale and Relationship Efficacy Measure. The present study employed Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) software to analyse the data. Results: First, the findings revealed a negative association between loneliness and relationship satisfaction. Second, the moderation effect of relationship efficacy was significant in the association between loneliness andrelationship satisfaction. Conclusion: The results supported the crucial role of relationship efficacy in a marital relationship. Ultimately, relationship efficacy can minimise the negative impact of loneliness on relationship satisfaction. In short, couples believing they can resolve conflict with their partners will likely promote better relationship satisfaction. This study alsopresents several practical and theoretical implications.