bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Using instructor judgment, learner corpora, and DIF to develop a placement test for Spanish L2 and heritage learners
Authors: Bowles Melissa A.
Published: May 2022

This study details the development of a local test designed to place university Spanish students ( n = 719) into one of the four different course levels and to distinguish between traditional L2 learners and early bilinguals on the basis of their linguistic knowledge, regardless of the variety of Spanish they were exposed to. Early bilinguals include two groups—heritage learners (HLs), who were exposed to Spanish in their homes and communities growing up, and early L2 learners with extensive Spanish exposure, often through dual immersion education, who are increasingly enrolling in university Spanish courses and tend to pattern with HLs. Expert instructor judgment and learner corpora contributed to item development, and 12 of 15 written multiple-choice test items targeting early-acquired vocabulary had differential item functioning (DIF) according to the Mantel–Haenszel procedure, favoring HLs. Recursive partitioning revealed that vocabulary score correctly identified 597/603 (99%) of L2 learners as such, and the six HLs whose vocabulary scores incorrectly identified them as L2 learners were in the lowest placement groups. Vocabulary scores also correctly identified 100% of the early L2 learners in the sample ( n = 7) as having a heritage profile. Implications for the local context and for placement testing in general are provided.
What factors predict perceived nativelikeness in long-term L2 users?
Authors: Forsberg Lundell Fanny , Arvidsson Klara , Jemstedt Andreas
Published: May 2022

This study investigated what psychological and social factors predict ‘perceived nativelikeness’ in late second language (L2) learners of French (L1 Swedish) ( N = 62) with a minimum length of residence (LOR) of 5 years in France. The included factors were: language aptitude (LLAMA), acculturation (VIA), personality (MPQ), target language engagement and social networks (number of relations in L2). LOR and Length of French studies were also included as extraneous variables. Multiple linear regression analyses showed that positive effects were found for LLAMA D (sound recognition), acculturation (VIA France and VIA Sweden), number of relations in L2 and LOR. A negative effect was found for the personality variable Social initiative. The strongest effects were found for LLAMA D, Social initiative and LOR. All variables together explained 25% (adjusted R²) of the variance in the sample, which represents medium-sized effects in relation to other studies on individual factors. In sum, these findings confirm results from earlier studies on the importance of language aptitude and acculturation in late L2 acquisition. They also add evidence of the importance of personality, social networks, and LOR. On a more general note psychological and social factors combine to explain different outcomes in adult L2 acquisition, although the effects of psychological variables are deemed somewhat stronger.
Did agriculture beget agriculture during the past several millennia?
Authors: Vavrus Stephen J , Kucharik Christopher J , He Feng , Kutzbach John E , Ruddiman William F
Published: May 2022

The Early Anthropogenic Hypothesis posits that carbon emissions from ancient farming caused global warming by raising greenhouse gas concentrations (GHG) during the late-Holocene, in contrast to declining GHG during prior interglacials. Here, we explore whether this hypothesized pre-industrial anthropogenic climate change also fostered agriculture by creating more favorable growing conditions. We investigate this question using transient GCM experiments and the Cultivation Suitability Index, CSI, which quantifies farming potential based on climatic and soil factors. The Community Earth System Model (CESM) simulated the climate of the last 6000 years under two alternative forcing scenarios: (1) ACTUAL: orbital variations, historical land cover change, and observed GHG increase; and (2) NATURAL: orbital variations, fixed (natural) land cover, and expected natural GHG decline. The CSI was computed using CESM model output and observed soil properties. Ancient land clearance affected the simulated climate both biogeochemically (via carbon emissions) and biogeophysically (altered surface albedo and land-atmosphere energy fluxes). Biogeochemical effects generally dominated, as evidenced by a warmer (and slightly wetter) global climate in ACTUAL versus NATURAL by year 1850. But a few regions were cooler in ACTUAL, especially interior Eurasia during winter-spring, due to a higher surface albedo from cropland. The expansion of agriculture generally mitigated the orbitally induced decline in cultivation potential in boreal extratropics but worsened it in low latitudes. Our results suggest that ancient farming may have thus promoted a “push-pull” migration during the late-Holocene by inducing climate changes that encouraged a northward spread of agriculture.
Trust or attention? Medialization of science revisited
Authors: Weingart Peter
Published: May 2022

The article traces the intensifying media orientation of universities and research organizations first by referring to early diagnoses of the spread of mutual observation and attention seeking as defining societies after WWII. This development provides the background for the unlikely, yet massive turn of scientific organizations to the general public, the media and more recently social media. Details are analyzed on the interactional, organizational and systems levels, and are followed with a focus on the reasons motivating universities. A closer look reveals the self-referentiality of institutional communication deriving its rationale from ‘imagined publics’. The politically sponsored ‘engagement of the public’ has been derailed to become marketing, branding and public relations exercises. The unintended consequences of the establishment of communication units and the blurring of science communication and persuasion are conflicts between faculty and management and possibly a loss of trust in science.
Public understanding of science and technology in the Internet era
Authors: Miller Jon D.
Published: May 2022

When this journal was launched in 1992, there was a growing consensus among political and academic leaders that a broad understanding of science and technology was necessary for economic prosperity and democratic governance. This was more of an intuitive judgment than an empirical one. After 30 years of data collection and analysis, it appears that these early expectations were largely correct, but the value of the last three decades of social and psychological research is that we now have a firmer empirical basis for these beliefs and expectations. This essay outlines the impact of the growth of science and technology and the development of new information technologies that have changed the ways that individuals obtain information. I will discuss the implications of these changes for democracy in the 21st century.
Thirty years of science–society interfaces: What’s next?
Authors: Scheufele Dietram A.
Published: May 2022

Looking back over three decades of work on public understanding (and communication) of science, I revisit four areas in which our field has been unnecessarily stagnant, but that also provide exciting opportunities for our field to meaningfully guide what will be critically important global debates surrounding emerging technologies moving forward: (1) letting go of deficit-type thinking among scholars and practitioners, focused on misinformation or other perceived informational asymmetries; (2) resisting the temptation to try and cure what the scientific community often dismisses as public (opinion) pathologies; (3) using a scientific approach to science communication as the foundation of a changing culture of public-minded science; and (4) acknowledging that solutions to the challenges posed by deeply disruptive applications of technologies like AI will not be solved by ethicists, affected communities, social scientists, STEM scientists, activists, journalists or policy makers alone. Emerging science will force societies to build capacity for communication and decision making across all of these stakeholder groups.
30 years of PUS: Reflections from Latin America on the academic field of science communication
Authors: Massarani Luisa
Published: May 2022

In this essay, I present a brief panorama of the field of science communication in Latin America based on some studies carried out within RedPOP, the Latin American network for science communication, and the Brazil’s Institute of Public Communication of Science and Technology, looking at Policies for science communication, Diplomas, Masters and PhD programmes, and Research in science communication. I will then highlight some of the challenges and trends in the region.
The translator versus the critic: A flawed dichotomy in the age of misinformation
Authors: Fisher Richard
Published: May 2022

The digital age creates new challenges for journalists and science communicators that threaten to undermine their shared goals of providing trustworthy content to audiences. To tackle 21st Century problems such as misinformation, falls in public trust and the diversity of online sources, the traditional models of journalism and sci-comm need to adapt, expanding their approaches and ethics to a new information environment.
Academic excellence and community relevance: Can we have it all?
Authors: Shavit Ayelet , Silver Yael
Published: May 2022

Academic excellence, in its original meaning (areté), combines intellectual and moral merit, grounded in one’s relevance to and impact on one’s world. However, in the current era of limited time and high-stake competition, social relevance is pre-assumed to trade-off against scientific distinction. This paper is one long argument against such excellence-relevance trade-off. We first briefly describe the history of academic ‘excellence’ and argue it does not support the current use of the term nor vindicate a necessary community-academia trade-off. Second, we review the current game theory framework for addressing community-academia interactions. We argue that due to its pre-assumed trade-off, it often entrenches an unjust hierarchy between science and society, even when motivated by honest goodwill and ending with reciprocal “win-win” benefits. Given these difficulties, in the third section we present a practical alternative, a case study of “Town Square Academia”, which operates in peripheral and heterogenic communities. We review its success and failures in the attempt to combine excellence with relevance, and argue for expanding such attempts. To conclude, given the importance of bridging the gap between science and society, even if scientific excellence only sometimes manages to unite with social and environmental relevance, it should all ways be attempted before rolled out.
Measuring listening and speaking self-efficacy in EFL contexts: The development of the Communicative SE Questionnaire
Authors: Harris Justin
Published: May 2022

This article outlines the development of a 16-item instrument for measuring language learner’s foreign language self-efficacy (SE) concerning their speaking and listening skills through repeated administrations to groups of Japanese tertiary students. Responses were analysed through the Rasch model, which allows researchers to investigate unidimensionality of each proposed component, as well as the functioning of individual items. Logit scores from Rasch were used for a regression analysis of listening SE with listening proficiency test data, and a correlation study with speaking SE and speaking proficiency scores of a subset of participants. The results suggest that the two proposed components in the instrument are unidimensional and are able to differentiate between different levels of SE among participants. Also, there are low to moderate correlations between learners’ aural/oral SE and their language proficiency.
Robotics and Weblog integration into EFL curriculum of middle and secondary schools: Exploratory study
Authors: Awada Ghada
Published: May 2022

This study set out to examine the effectiveness of Robotics and Weblog models in improving English as a foreign language (EFL) proficiency of terminal middle and secondary school graders. Another purpose is to suggest pedagogies required to integrate Robotics and Weblog models in the EFL curriculum and instruction. We collected data using the State terminal middle and secondary examinations administered across Lebanon, including question items illustrating Bloom’s six levels of critical thinking model. Data were analysed using the rule-based assessment method and descriptive statistics. The findings proved that Robotics and Weblog models improved EFL achievement scores of the terminal middle school graders and three out of four branches of the terminal secondary graders. The study yielded recommendations and implications for Weblog and Robotics models’ integration into EFL curriculum and instruction.
From dementia mindsets to emotions and behaviors: Predicting person-centered care in care professionals
Authors: Kunz Lena K , Scheibe Susanne , Wisse Barbara , Boerner Kathrin , Zemlin Claudia
Published: May 2022

Background and Objective

High-quality care standards for dementia care are increasingly based on person-centered care principles. To better understand facilitating factors of person-centered care this research focuses on individual characteristics of care professionals. Applying mindset theory to dementia care, we examined dementia mindsets (viewing dementia symptoms as either malleable or fixed) in care professionals. We tested whether there is a positive relationship between a malleable dementia mindset and person-centered care as well as a negative relationship between a fixed dementia mindset and person-centered care. Moreover, we examined whether care professionals’ emotional responses in care situations help explain associations between dementia mindsets and person-centered care.

Research Design and Method

In two cross-sectional studies, care professionals of long-term care facilities (total N = 370) completed a measure of dementia mindsets and reported their emotional and behavioral responses to five care scenarios. Regression and mediation analyses were performed.

Findings

The tested hypotheses were partially supported. A fixed dementia mindset predicted reported person-centered care negatively, while a malleable dementia mindset did not. Mediation analyses suggest that reduced negative emotions may underlie the association between a malleable mindset and reported person-centered care, while reduced positive emotions in care situations may underlie the association of a fixed mindset and reported person-centered care. Study 2 partially replicated these findings. A fixed mindset and positive emotional responses were the most robust predictors of reported person-centered care.

Discussion and Implications

This study extends knowledge on facilitators (positive emotional responses to care situations) and barriers (fixed dementia mindset) to person-centered care in care professionals working with persons with dementia. We discuss how dementia mindsets and emotional responses to care situations may be a fruitful target for trainings for care professionals.
Family day care educators’ ability to support children’s mental wellbeing and the impact of COVID-19
Authors: Triandafilidis Zoi , Old Ashleigh , Hanstock Tanya , Fitzpatrick Sally
Published: May 2022

The childcare setting is a critical environment to observe, and also influence, children’s mental wellbeing. However, little research has examined the experiences and ability of Australian family day care (FDC) educators in supporting children’s mental wellbeing. The present study aimed to explore how training, COVID-19, and partnerships influence FDC educators’ ability to promote children’s mental wellbeing. Seven FDC educators engaged in semi-structured interviews, and thematic analysis identified six themes. These were (1) more than a babysitter; (2) experience is the best teacher; (3) close and supportive relationships, which included a sense of exile as a subordinate theme; (4) it takes a village to raise a child; (5) fear and uncertainty; and (6) business and relational difficulties. The research suggests that support for FDC educators through adequate training and strong partnerships more effectively promotes children’s mental wellbeing.
Social Media and SMEs’ Performance in Developing Countries: Effects of Technological-Organizational-Environmental Factors on the Adoption of Social Media
Authors: Qalati Sikandar Ali , Ostic Dragana , Sulaiman Mohammad Ali Bait Ali , Gopang Aamir Ali , Khan Asadullah
Published: May 2022

Increasing globalization and rapid digitization across industries have led to greater international competition. Furthermore, the emergence of new innovation has created both challenges and opportunities for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). SMEs have recently been attracted to social media applications to reach a larger audience, improve their relationship with potential customers, and retain existing customers. However, the scant focus has been devoted to comprehensively understanding the adoption of social media in the SME context in developing countries. This study investigates the effects of technological-organizational-environmental (TOE) factors on social media adoption and its effect on SME performance. Data was collected by generating online survey link. SmartPLS 3.3 was used for the path analysis of 381 SMEs. The findings revealed a significant effect of relative advantage, cost-effectiveness, compatibility, interactivity (technological), entrepreneurial orientation (organizational), and customer pressure (environmental) factors, and an insignificant effect of top management support (organizational) and competitive pressure (environmental) determinants on social media adoption. The study found a significant influence of social media on SME performance. This paper offers several implications for decision-makers, policy-makers, and scholars interested in social media and its use. It builds an empirical, integrated framework for SMEs in developing countries.
Identification of condition-specific regulatory mechanisms in normal and cancerous human lung tissue
Authors: Hang Yuqing , Burns Josh , Shealy Benjamin T. , Pauly Rini , Ficklin Stephen P. , Feltus Frank A.
Published: May 2022

Background

Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer death in both men and women. The most common lung cancer subtype is non-small cell lung carcinoma (NSCLC) comprising about 85% of all cases. NSCLC can be further divided into three subtypes: adenocarcinoma (LUAD), squamous cell carcinoma (LUSC), and large cell lung carcinoma. Specific genetic mutations and epigenetic aberrations play an important role in the developmental transition to a specific tumor subtype. The elucidation of normal lung versus lung tumor gene expression patterns and regulatory targets yields biomarker systems that discriminate lung phenotypes (i.e., biomarkers) and provide a foundation for the discovery of normal and aberrant gene regulatory mechanisms.

Results

We built condition-specific gene co-expression networks (csGCNs) for normal lung, LUAD, and LUSC conditions. Then, we integrated normal lung tissue-specific gene regulatory networks (tsGRNs) to elucidate control-target biomarker systems for normal and cancerous lung tissue. We characterized co-expressed gene edges, possibly under common regulatory control, for relevance in lung cancer.

Conclusions

Our approach demonstrates the ability to elucidate csGCN:tsGRN merged biomarker systems based on gene expression correlation and regulation. The biomarker systems we describe can be used to classify and further describe lung specimens. Our approach is generalizable and can be used to discover and interpret complex gene expression patterns for any condition or species.
A novel and sensitive DNA methylation marker for the urine-based liquid biopsies to detect bladder cancer
Authors: Deng Leihong , Chao Haichao , Deng Huanhuan , Yu Zhaojun , Zhao Rongsong , Huang Longwu , Gong Yun , Zhu Yueting , Wang Qingping , Li Feng , Liu Lirong , He Lei , Tang Zhimin , Liao Caizhi , Qi Yan , Wang Xianshu , Zeng Tao , Zou Hongzhi
Published: May 2022

Background

Better prognostic outcome is closely correlated with early detection of bladder cancer. Current non-invasive urianalysis relies on simultaneously testing multiple methylation markers to achieve relatively high accuracy. Therefore, we have developed an easy-to-use, convenient, and accurate single-target urine-based DNA methylation test for the malignancy.

Methods

By analyzing TCGA data, 344 candidate markers with 424 primer pairs and probe sets synthesized were systematically screened in cancer cell lines, paired tissue specimens, and urine sediments from bladder cancer patients and normal controls. The identified marker was further validated in large case-control cohorts. Wilcoxon rank sum tests and c2 tests were performed to compare methylation levels between case-control groups and correlate methylation levels with demographic and clinical characteristics. In addition, MSP, qMSP, RT-PCR, western blot analysis, and immunohistochemistry were performed to measure levels of DNA methylation, mRNA transcription, and protein expression in cancer cell lines and tissues.

Results

A top-performing DMRTA2 marker identified was tested in both discovery and validation sets, showing similar sensitivity and specificity for bladder cancer detection. Overall sensitivity in the aggregate set was 82.9%(179/216). The specificity, from a control group consisting of patients with lithangiuria, prostatoplasia, and prostatitis, is 92.5%(468/506). Notably, the methylation assay had the highest sensitivities for tumors at stages of T1(90.4%) and T2(95.0%) compared with Ta (63.0%), T3(81.8%), and T4(81.8%). Furthermore, the test showed admirable detection rate of 80.0%(24/30) for recurring cancers. While methylation was observed in 39/54(72.2%) urine samples from patients with carcinomas of renal pelvis and ureter, it was detected at extremely low rate of 6.0%(8/133) in kidney and prostate cancers. Compared with SV-HUC-1, the normal bladder epithelial cell line, DMRTA2 was hypermethylated in 8/9 bladder cancer cell lines, consistent with the results of MSP and qMSP, but not correlated with mRNA and protein expression levels in these cell lines. Similarly, DMRTA2 immunostaining was moderate in some tissues but weak in others. Further studies are needed to address functional implications of DMRTA2 hypermethylation.

Conclusions

Our data demonstrated that a single-target DNA methylation signature, mDMRTA2, could be highly effective to detect both primary and recurring bladder cancer via urine samples.
Trends in educational disparities in preventive behaviours, risk perception, perceived effectiveness and trust in the first year of the COVID-19 pandemic in Germany
Authors: Pförtner Timo-Kolja , Dohle Simone , Hower Kira Isabel
Published: May 2022

Background

Educational disparities in health and health behaviours have always been relevant in public health research and are particularly challenging in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic. First studies suggest that factors important for the containment of the COVID-19 pandemic, such as prevention behaviour, risk perception, perceived effectiveness of containment measures, and trust in authorities handling the pandemic, vary by educational status. This study builds on recent debate by examining trends in absolute and relative educational disparities in these factors in the first year of the COVID-19 pandemic in Germany.

Methods

Data stem from four waves of the GESIS Panel surveyed between March and October 2020 in Germany (15,902 observations from 4,690 individuals). Trends in absolute and relative disparities were examined for preventive behaviour, risk perception, perceived effectiveness of COVID-19 containment measures, and trust in individuals and institutions handling the COVID-19 pandemic by educational status using sex, age, residence, nationality, children under 16 living in household, family status, household size, the Big Five Inventory, and income class as control factors. Descriptive statistics as well as unadjusted and adjusted linear regression models and random effects models were performed.

Results

We observed an initially rising and then falling trend in preventive behaviour with consistent and significant absolute and relative disparities with a lower preventive behaviour among low educated individuals. Indication of a U-shaped trend with consistent significantly lower values among lower educated individuals was found for risk perception, whereas perceived effectiveness and trust decreased significantly over time but did not significantly vary by educational status.

Conclusions

Results indicate persistent educational disparities in preventive behaviour and risk perception and a general decline in perceived effectiveness and trust in the first year of the COVID-19 pandemic in Germany. To address this overall downward trend and existing disparities, comprehensive and strategic management is needed to communicate the risks of the pandemic and the benefits of COVID-19 containment measures. Both must be adapted to the different needs of educational groups in particular in order to overcome gaps in preventive behaviour and risk perception by educational status.
Successful management of a patient with ovarian ectopic pregnancy by the end of the first trimester: a case report
Authors: Kasraei Sara , Seifollahi Akram , Aghajani Faezeh , Nakhostin-Ansari Amin , Zarei Neda , Tehranian Afsaneh
Published: May 2022

Background

Among all ectopic pregnancies, between 0.5% and 3.5% are ovarian ectopic pregnancies, a potentially life-threatening condition when ruptured due to its serious potential for hemorrhaging. A majority of ovarian ectopic pregnancies are diagnosed by the 7th week of pregnancy when the patient becomes symptomatic, and ultrasound can be used to diagnose this condition.

Case presentation

We present the case of a 39-year-old Persian woman in the 12th week of gestation who presented with vaginal bleeding and abdominal pain and was diagnosed with ovarian ectopic pregnancy. Her notable laboratory finding was β-human chorionic gonadotropin > 15,000, which indicates definite pregnancy. Transvaginal ultrasound (TVS) revealed no evidence of intrauterine pregnancy, but a well-circumscribed gestational sac in the left ovary. The patient was successfully treated with resection of the gestational sac and partial left salpingo-oophorectomy. Histopathological studies confirmed the diagnosis of ovarian ectopic pregnancy.

Conclusion

The case emphasizes the ability of ovarian ectopic pregnancy to develop asymptomatically through the course of pregnancy and points to the necessity for high-quality prenatal care and the importance of determining the fetal site during pregnancy.
Favorable effect of enhanced recovery programs on post-discharge mortality: a French nationwide study
Authors: Slim Karem , Boudemaghe Thierry , Delaunay Laurent , Léger Lucas , Bizard Frédéric
Published: May 2022

Background

Enhanced recovery programs (ERPs) imply early discharge but few papers have assessed the effect of ERPs on post-discharge mortality (PDM).

Methods

A multicenter nationwide case control study based on administrative data was carried out between March and December 2019. Coding for every episode of care whether in the setting of ERP or not is mandatory for hospital funding (public or private). Twelve surgical specialties or procedures were included. The episodes of care coded with ERP were matched with those without ERP code for several factors such as the type of hospital (public or private), age, gender, month of discharge, and updated Charlson score. Ninety-day PDM was the main outcome.

Results

Of 420,031 patients in the database, 78,119 had an ERP code. Finally, 132,600 patients with 66,300 matched pairs were considered for the study. Overall, PDM was significantly reduced after ERPs: 0.075% vs 0.138% (p = 0.00042). Significant one-half and two-thirds reduction in PDM was observed respectively after hip arthroplasty (odds ratio 0.48 [95% CI 0.21–0.99]) and colectomy (odds ratio 0.36 [95% CI 0.16–0.74]).

Conclusion

The findings, based on a large database and a rigorous matching, strongly suggest that ERPs reduce PDM particularly after colectomy and hip arthroplasty. This is likely due to better post-operative care in ERPs.
Stepping up to meet the challenge of freezing of gait in Parkinson’s disease
Authors: Lewis Simon , Factor Stewart , Giladi Nir , Nieuwboer Alice , Nutt John , Hallett Mark
Published: May 2022

There has been a growing appreciation for freezing of gait as a disabling symptom that causes a significant burden in Parkinson’s disease. Previous research has highlighted some of the key components that underlie the phenomenon, but these reductionist approaches have yet to lead to a paradigm shift resulting in the development of novel treatment strategies. Addressing this issue will require greater integration of multi-modal data with complex computational modeling, but there are a number of critical aspects that need to be considered before embarking on such an approach. This paper highlights where the field needs to address current gaps and shortcomings including the standardization of definitions and measurement, phenomenology and pathophysiology, as well as considering what available data exist and how future studies should be constructed to achieve the greatest potential to better understand and treat this devastating symptom.
Examining classroom writing assessment literacy: a focus on in-service EFL teachers in Iran
Authors: Tayyebi Masoumeh , Abbasabady Mahmoud Moradi , Abbassian Gholam-Reza
Published: May 2022

Writing assessment literacy (WAL) has received research attention over the past few years. This study aimed at investigating writing assessment knowledge of Iranian English language teachers along with their conceptions and practices of writing assessment based on Crusan et al.’s (Assessing Writing 28:43–56, 2016) study in order to have a better understanding of their current situation and to predict and accommodate for future writing assessment requirements. The study further aimed at examining how teachers’ knowledge, conception, and practice of writing assessment are influenced by contextual and experiential factors. To accomplish this goal, a test of writing assessment knowledge together with an adapted version of a questionnaire developed by Crusan et al. (Assessing Writing 28:43–56, 2016) for writing assessment conceptions and practice was distributed among 120 Iranian in-service teachers selected based on convenience sampling. The results of the study have shown inadequate levels of writing assessment knowledge for participating teachers. With regard to the conceptions of writing assessment, majority of the participants valued innovative assessment methods like portfolio and self/peer assessment methods although in practice, they rarely used these methods. The study revealed no impact of teaching experience and context on teachers’ writing assessment knowledge and practice. The findings of this study contribute to our current understanding of WAL development and provide a more accurate picture of writing assessment training needs of Iranian teachers and the development of more efficient teacher education courses.
Impact of retraction force magnitudes on mobility of maxillary canines: a split-mouth design
Authors: Albelasy Nehal F. , Abdelnaby Yasser L.
Published: May 2022

Objective

Prospective evaluation of the maxillary canine mobility during retraction using two different force levels over 5 months of retraction.

Materials and methods

Thirty patients indicated for maximum retraction of maxillary canines with age range of 14.7–18.9 years were included in the study. After complete leveling and alignment and immediately before canine retraction, the mobility of the maxillary canines was measured using the Periotest device and repeated monthly. A split-mouth design was applied where on the one side, the retraction force was 100 g, while on the other side 200 g of force. Four subgroups were investigated: A1 (R3 100 g), A2 (L3 200 g), B1 (R3 200 g) and B2 (L3 100 g). The total amount of canine retraction was measured for each side using the pre- and post-retraction dental casts.

Results

The collected data were normally distributed. ANOVA test showed insignificant statistical difference in Periotest values (PTVs) among the four subgroups pre-retraction and monthly p > 0.05. However, each group showed a statistically significant difference in PTVs over the 5 months. The independent sample t test showed a statistical insignificant difference in PTVs between the 100 g and 200 g retraction force. Pearson correlation of the PTVs to the period of retraction was statistically significant p < 0.05 while being in significant to the retraction force p > 0.05.

Conclusion

Increasing the retraction force of maxillary canines up to 200 g of force does not significantly increase the teeth mobility during orthodontic treatment. There is a positive correlation between the PTVs and the duration of tooth movement regardless the magnitude of force.
Comprehensive analysis of DNA methylation for periodontitis
Authors: Zhao Zengbo , Wang Huimin , Li Xiaona , Hou Jingya , Yang Yuntian , Li Hexiang
Published: May 2022

Background

Periodontitis is an infectious disease, and a risk factor for peri-implantitis that could result in the implant loss. DNA methylation has an essential role in the etiology and pathogenesis of inflammatory disease. However, there is lack of study on methylation status of genes in periodontitis. This study sought to explore the gene methylation profiling microarray in periodontitis.

Methods

Through searching in the Gene Expression Omnibus database, a gene methylation profiling data set GSE173081 was identified, which included 12 periodontitis samples and 12 normal samples, respectively. Thereafter, the data of GSE173081 was downloaded and analyzed to determined differentially methylated genes (DMGs), which then were used to perform Gene Ontology analysis and pathway enrichment analyses through online database. In addition, the DMGs were applied to construct the protein–protein interaction (PPI) network information, predict the hub genes in pathology of periodontitis.

Results

In total 668 DMGs were sorted and identified from the data set, which included 621 hypo-methylated genes and 47 hyper-methylated genes. Through the function and ontology analysis, these 668 genes are mainly classified into intracellular signaling pathway, cell components, cell–cell interaction, and cellular behaviors. The pathway analysis showed that the hypo-methylated genes were mostly enriched in the pathway of cGMP–PKG signaling pathway; RAF/MAP kinase; PI3K–Akt signaling pathway, while hyper-methylated genes were mostly enriched in the pathway of bacterial invasion of epithelial cells; sphingolipid signaling pathway and DCC mediated attractive signaling. The PPI network contained 630 nodes and 1790 interactions. Moreover, further analysis identified top 10 hub genes (APP; PAX6; LPAR1; WNT3A; BMP2; PI3KR2; GATA4; PLCB1; GATA6; CXCL12) as central nodes that are involved in the immune system and the inflammatory response.

Conclusions

This study provides comprehensive information of methylation status of genes to the revelation of periodontitis pathogenesis that may contribute to future research on periodontitis.
Online self-evaluation: the EFL writing skills in focus
Authors: Al-Mwzaiji Khaled Nasser Ali , Alzubi Ali Abbas Falah
Published: May 2022

Students need more independent roles to evaluate their learning performance, especially in the absence of teachers’ feedback due to some constraints such as technology and poor experience. This study investigates the potential of online self-evaluation on students’ writing skills in English as a foreign language (EFL). It examines the preparatory year (PY) level one students’ most improved EFL writing areas and perceptions when they use online self-evaluation in writing. In this quasi-experiment, two groups of PY EFL writing program students (N = 60) participated in the study for the first semester 2020–2021. A mixed-method design was applied: Self-monitoring checklists, self-evaluation questionnaires, achievement tests, and students’ portfolios. Findings revealed that most of the learners’ mistakes were in punctuation marks, capitalization, informal language, and subject-verb agreement. It was also perceived that learners were doing fine about where and how they should be. The study proved that the students’ self-evaluation and performance in writing correlated significantly; however, the effect size was low. Based on the research findings, it is recommended that training programs on strategy are to be boosted, especially in institutions where learners receive less feedback.
Delayed return of urinary continence following the removal of neglected sacral shrapnel
Authors: Usman B. , Mohammed B. , Dogo H. M.
Published: May 2022

Background

Globalisation of terrorism has led to an increase in the number of injuries from the explosion of improvised explosive devices, with complications resulting from the retained shrapnel. It had been found that a third of those who sustained penetrating spinal cord injuries are from explosions. Retained foreign body in the sacral canal segment is rare, especially shrapnel presenting with urinary incontinence. Moreover, the one who had a dramatic recovery of urinary continence following removal of neglected sacral canal shrapnel. We report a case of a delayed improvement (recovery) in urinary continence following removal of neglected sacral canal shrapnel remotely aided by a pelvic floor exercise.

Case presentation

Our patient was a 14-year-old male who presented with a 3-year history of trauma to the lower back from an Improvised Explosive Device. He was initially associated with difficulty in walking that improved over eight months. However, the urinary incontinence persisted. He was found to be preserved with no neurological deficit in the lower limb. There was a lower back, midline wound, discharging pus. Lumbosacral imaging revealed a sacral (S2) canal Shrapnel. As a case of urinary incontinence from sacral shrapnel, he had the removal of the shrapnel, did well postoperatively, commenced on pelvic floor exercise. He became continence of urine over time.

Conclusions

Retained foreign bodies in the spinal canal are associated with complications that include neurological deficit. Neglected (long-standing) sacral shrapnel with urinary incontinence is rare; moreover, the recovery of the continence with the removal of the shrapnel is aided by the commencement of pelvic floor exercise.
Aeroacoustic prediction based on large-eddy simulation and the Ffowcs Williams–Hawkings equation
Authors: Zhang Yufei , Xiao Yang , Liu Ruihuan , Chen Haixin
Published: May 2022

A hybrid noise computation method is presented in this paper. Large-eddy simulation with wall-model equation is proposed to compute the flow field. With a stress-balanced wall-model equation, the near-wall computation cost of large eddy simulation was effectively reduced. The instantaneous flow variables obtained by the large-eddy simulation were used to compute the noise source terms of the Ffowcs Williams–Hawkings equation. The present method was investigated with two test cases: a single cylinder atRe = 10,000 and a rod-airfoil atRe = 480,000. The flow quantities and aeroacoustic characteristics were compared with the reference data. The mean velocity profiles and spectra of the flow fluctuations were consistent with data from the literature. When compared with the reference data, the noise computation error was less than 3 dB. The computation results demonstrate the present wall-modeled large eddy simulation is efficient for the noise computation of complex vortex shedding flows.
Outcomes of total arterial revascularization vs conventional revascularization in patients undergoing coronary artery bypass graft surgery: A narrative review of major studies
Authors: Dominici Carmelo , Chello Massimo , Saeed Sahrai
Published: May 2022

Coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) is a widely used surgical procedure which improves clinical outcomes in appropriately selected patients. Conventionally, the greater saphenous vein is often used in CABG. However, due to their higher long-term patency rates, arterial conduits are routinely used, with the left internal thoracic artery (LITA) on left anterior descending (LAD) being the gold standard in CABG. Our aim in the present work was to investigate the outcomes of a total arterial grafting (TAG) on the whole heart, with no use of venous grafts, compared to mixed conduits in real-world data. A literature search was conducted in the bibliographic databases PubMed and Web of Science. Only studies comparing TAG with conventional CABG (at least one venous graft plus one or more arterial grafts), with at least one hundred patients in each group were included in this review. After study selection, a total of 15 relevant studies were evaluated and discussed in the present review. Results indicated that TAG is a highly efficient technique, and multiple arterial grafts can be used to reliably revascularize all coronary artery territories. TAG was more beneficial in terms of both short and long-term outcomes and its use should be encouraged. Large randomized clinical trials are needed to confirm the superiority of total arterial grafting with regard to long-term outcomes.

doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.38.5.5674

How to cite this:Dominici C, Chello M, Saeed S. Outcomes of total arterial revascularization vs conventional revascularization in patients undergoing coronary artery bypass graft surgery: A narrative review of major studies. Pak J Med Sci. 2022;38(5):---------.  doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.38.5.5674

This is an Open Access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0), which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.
Severe calcification of forgotten Double-J ureteral stent in a patient with undiagnosed hyperparathyroidism
Authors: Ostrowska Magdalena , Kaczyński Szymon , Skwara Dominika , Grześk-Kaczyńska Magdalena , Ostrowski Adam , Drewa Tomasz
Published: May 2022

Background
Double J stent (DJ) is widely used in urological practice in patients with renal stones. However, its application is related to the risk of incrustation. We present a case of severe calcification of forgotten DJ in a patient with previously undiagnosed hyperparathyroidism (HPT).
Case presentation
A 30-year-old female was admitted to the Urology Department with renal colic. An initial kidney, ureter, and bladder X-ray revealed a completely calcified DJ catheter placed twelve months earlier. Unfortunately, the patient did not show up for a follow-up visit, and stent removal was not performed.  Due to the extent of the disease, the patient was qualified for multistage endoscopic treatment. Total treatment lasted six months and consisted of five urereroscopies and one hybrid procedure. Simultaneously, diagnostics of a metabolic cause of the advanced stone disease suggested primary hyperparathyroidism, confirmed during parathyroid scintigraphy. After urological treatment had been completed, parathyroidectomy was performed. During a further 7-year follow-up, only one episode of renal colic occurred within the first year after treatment. The patient is stone-free until the present day.
Conclusions
Stents are designed to last usually up to six months, but they should be removed as quickly as possible after finishing treatment. Also, other causes such as a metabolic or hormonal imbalance should be considered. In our patient combination of forgotten DJ and HPT was the reason for excessive stone formation. Selective removal of the parathyroid gland was effective in the presented patient, with no stone recurrence observed.
The role of Demodex folliculorum in pathogenesis of rosacea
Authors: Wieteska Małgorzata , Maj Dominik , Gorecka Adrianna , Gorajek Anna , Wacławska Monika , Chałupnik Aleksandra
Published: May 2022

Introduction and objective: Rosacea is a common chronic inflammatory disease that affects approximately 10% of the population globally. The exact pathogenesis of rosacea remains unknown. However, there are considered several factors such as genetic predisposition, environmental impact, immune dysregulation, as well as presence of microorganisms. The aim of the study is to review recent knowledge about the relationship between rosacea and Demodex folliculorum. The information used in the presented analysis was obtained by searching academic research databases: Google Scholar and PubMed.

An abbreviated description of the state of knowledge: Demodex folliculorum is a microscopic mite that resides in the hair follicles and sebaceous glands of the skin. Current studies show that Demodex folliculorum plays an important role in pathogenesis of rosacea. That is related with the induction of excessive pro-inflammatory skin response combined with increase in inflammation mediators. Moreover in patients with rosacea there is observed a nearly 6-fold increase in Demodex folliculorum density in comparison to general population. Increased number of mites is associated with local immunosuppression that may predispose to the development of rosacea. The presence of Demodex mites is related not only with acute course and prolonged duration of the disease, but also with higher probability of recurrence.

Summary: Demodex folliculorum is involved in the pathogenesis of rosacea. Moreover, as a parasite, it significantly decreases the quality of patient’s life. Therefore, patients with severe rosacea should be examined for the presence of Demodex mites. In case of detection, regardless of its quantitative load, antiparasitic drug should be recommended.
Reading Trajectories in Elementary Grades: A Longitudinal Analysis
Authors: Singh Malkeet , Dunn Hugh , Bel-Hadj-Amor Hella
Published: May 2022

Research shows that children's reading proficiency levels in the early grades positively correlate with students' future academic achievement. This study provides the first-ever analysis of reading achievement trajectories for a cohort of students in grades 3 to 5 in 2014–17 in Hawaii schools. Hawaii serves a diverse student population whose characteristics differ in ways often overlooked by standard US racial and ethnic classifications. Our analysis shows that Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander students not only start at a lower reading proficiency than their peers in Grade 3, but the achievement gap widens as they move from Grade 3 to Grade 5. Moreover, we find a strong association between students' third-grade performance and reading achievement growth rate above and beyond all other factors in our longitudinal model. The difference in performance patterns between student subgroups across the elementary grades can serve as an accurate baseline for yearly monitoring. In light of our findings, we discuss implications for policy and practice.