bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Media Comparison Studies: Problems and Possibilities
Authors: Warnick Bryan R. , Burbules Nicholas C. 
Published: February 2022

Background/Context Media comparison studies aim to compare the relative effectiveness of different media at promoting educational outcomes. While these types of studies remain popular, they have been under attack for more than two decades. Critics of media comparison studies claim that continued studies are unhelpful because a great number of research projects have already shown that media produce “no significant difference” in learning outcomes. They also claim that the studies that do find a difference among media are flawed because of a conflation of “media” with “method.” These claims suggest the need for conceptual clarification. Purpose of Study The purposes of this study are: (1) to uncover and evaluate the conceptual assumptions that are made in debates about media comparison studies, (2) to make some suggestions for how media comparison studies could be made more useful and interesting. Research Design The methodology used in this study is a conceptual and philosophical analysis. Findings The analysis produces three major findings. First, the debate so far has not examined the underlying assumptions involved in the process of making a comparison. Second, there has been a failure to appreciate how general comparative statements across media technologies must stipulate contexts of use, as well as a failure to examine the implications for the debate that flow from this requirement. Third, the concept of a “medium” has not been explored with sufficient depth, either with regard to how this concept is different from “method,” or to how this concept is itself a contestable metaphor for classroom technologies. Recommendations In the end, the following suggestions are offered for media comparison researchers: (1) Media researchers should realize that claims about a “significant difference” and about whether something “matters” to learning, will always be limited to particular educational goals and contexts of use — no global statements can be made about such things. (2) New media technologies can and should be compared with regard to the different educational ends they make possible rather than as mere means to an end that is already assumed. (3) Media researchers need to explore the educational importance of media that extend beyond intended aspects. Such a research program would benefit from adopting the “space” metaphor, from looking at educationally practices more holistically, and from a robust qualitative element in the comparative research.
Characteristics of Effective Alternative Teacher Certification Programs
Authors: Humphrey Daniel C. , Wechsler Marjorie E. , Hough Heather J. 
Published: February 2022

Background Alternative certification plays a central role in the production of new teachers in many states, yet little is known about the characteristics of an effective program. Given that the variation within programs is as great as the variation between programs, the common methodology of comparing programs is unable to discern the qualities of programs with positive teacher outcomes. Focus of Study This paper is based on an analysis of seven alternative certification programs to determine the characteristics of effective programs. It presents findings from an analysis designed to shed light on the effects of personal, program, and contextual inputs on teaching outcomes. To account for within-program variation, the analysis clusters individuals across programs based on common background characteristics, program experiences, and school contexts. Research Design We employed multiple data collection activities at both the program and participant levels. We conducted case studies of seven alternative certification programs, including multiple interviews with key personnel and document reviews. We surveyed program participants twice—once at the beginning of their participation in the program, and again at the end of their first year of teaching. We also observed a sample of participants teaching and interviewed them both at the beginning and end of their first year of teaching. Findings We found that each program, personal, or contextual element analyzed impacted various outcomes differently, and each contributed to the development of skilled, confident teachers. The element with the strongest effect on all measured outcomes, however, was school context. Conclusions Overall, findings suggest that an effective alternative certification program places candidates in schools with strong leadership, a collegial atmosphere, and adequate materials. Effective programs select well-educated individuals or work to strengthen subject-matter knowledge, and recognize that previous classroom experience is an asset. Effective programs provide carefully constructed and timely coursework tailored to candidates’ backgrounds and school contexts. And, effective programs provide trained mentors who have the time and resources to plan lessons with candidates, share curricula, demonstrate lessons, and provide feedback after frequent classroom observations.
To Test or Not to Test? Drug Testing Teachers: The View of the Superintendent
Authors: Demitchell Todd A. , Kossakoski Stephen , Baldasaro Tony 
Published: February 2022

Purpose School superintendents are charged with maintaining the safety and security of the schools in their district. One major recognized threat to the security and safety of students and staff is the use of illegal drugs. Superintendents are responding to the constitutionality of student drug-testing policies by implementing drug-testing programs. Are superintendents implementing drug-testing policies in response to recent court decisions that have allowed for the preemployment and the suspicionless drug testing of teachers? Population Superintendents nationwide were randomly selected for the study. Research Design A mixed methodology was used to address the following questions: (1) Have school districts adopted a mandatory drug-testing policy, either preemployment or suspicionless, for teachers? (2) Do superintendents support a mandatory drug-testing policy, either preemployment or suspicionless, for teachers? (3) Do superintendents have differentiated support for preemployment and suspicionless drug-testing policies for teachers? Legal analysis was used to map the applicable court cases and constitutional ground that forms the foundation of drug testing. Quantitative analysis was used on the 144 returned surveys. The third part of the methodology was an analysis of short-answer questions using quasi-qualitative methods. Conclusions This study found that superintendents believe that they have the authority, without offending the Constitution, to implement teacher preemployment and suspicionless drug-testing policies. However, in large part, they are not implementing such policies. The responding superintendents have a greater comfort level with preemployment testing than suspicionless drug testing of teachers. Most superintendents believed that the drug problem among teachers was not large enough to warrant action, but many reserved the right to revisit the implementation of such policies if the circumstances in their school district changed.
Peer Pedagogy: Student Collaboration and Reflection in a Learning-Through-Design Project
Authors: Ching Cynthia Carter , Kafai Yasmin B. 
Published: February 2022

Background Existing research suggests that one of the challenges for teachers in persisting with innovative inquiry curricula is their difficulty scaffolding students’ transitions into technology-supported and open-ended activities. The question of whether students can effectively scaffold one another's transitions has not been previously investigated, in part, we argue, because of a predominant focus in collaborative learning research on short-term tasks and perfunctory “helping” behaviors. Purpose This article addresses the nature and role of students’ collaborations in learning-through-design, a technology-rich science inquiry curriculum. Within this environment, we examined emergent collaborative patterns among students, the affordances of those patterns for effective learning, and students’ reflections on their interactions. We paid particular attention to how students with varying degrees of previous experience in this curricular approach collaborated with one another. Setting This study took place at a university-affiliated elementary school in a West Coast urban area. Population Two mixed-grade classes of fourth- and fifth-grade students (n = 63) and their science teacher participated in this study. Fifth-grade students in one class had extensive experiences with learning through design during the previous year. Practice For 10 weeks during the fall, students in both classes learned about marine biology. During this time, they also worked in teams to create marine simulations using Logo Microworlds programming and multimedia software. Research Design/Data Collection and Analysis Design-based research guided the creation of the curriculum and examination of its effectiveness. Ethnographic methods, grounded theory, hermeneutics, and discourse analysis were used to collect and analyze video of student collaborations and interviews. Analysis of variance was conducted using the coded results from student interviews to determine significant differences among groups. Results We found that experienced fifth-graders took on many socializing functions, effectively apprenticing younger students into the practices of learning-through-design. Interviews revealed that both fourth-grade and fifth-grade students were highly reflective about their respective collaborative roles and that experienced students benefited as much as, if not more so, than inexperienced students from this arrangement. Conclusions Given experienced students’ strategic, effective, and thoughtful ongoing collaborations with their fourth-grade counterparts, we introduce and propose the term peer pedagogy to describe these interactions. This term and our constituent results have implications for existing research and practice with collaborative learning and project-based technology-integrated curricula, as well as for theory and scholarship on children's roles within learning communities.
A Prospective Three-Months Naturalistic Follow-Up Study of Outcomes of Patients with Opioid Dependence Discharged on Buprenorphine or Oral Naltrexone
Authors: Singh Virendra Vikram , Dhawan Anju , Chadda Rakesh K. , Mishra Ashwani Kumar , Sarkar Siddharth 
Published: February 2022

Background: Comparative studies of the naturalistic course of patients of opioid dependence on naltrexone and buprenorphine are likely to be helpful for clinical decision-making. The article aimed to report on the three-months naturalistic outcomes of patients discharged on naltrexone or buprenorphine from the same center. Methods: Patients with opioid dependence who were discharged on either naltrexone ( n = 86) or buprenorphine ( n = 30) were followed up for three months for retention in treatment. The patients were also followed up telephonically, and the Maudsley Addiction Profile was applied. Results: The days of retention in treatment were significantly higher in the buprenorphine group (69.5 versus 48.7 days, P = 0.009). Heroin use, pharmaceutical opioid use, injection drug use, involvement in illegal activity, and percentage of contact days in conflict with friends in the last 30 days reduced over three months in both the groups, while the physical and psychological quality of life improved in both the groups. Additionally, in the naltrexone group, smoked tobacco use, cannabis use, and percentage of contact days in conflict with family within the last 30 days reduced at three months compared to baseline. Conclusion: With the possible limitations of choice of medication-assisted treatment for opioid dependence being determined by the patient, and prescribing related factors and sample size constraints, the study suggests that retention outcomes may vary between naltrexone and buprenorphine, though both medications may improve several patient-related parameters. However, a true head-to-head comparison of the outcomes of buprenorphine and naltrexone in a naturalistic setting may be difficult.
Guanxinping ameliorates atherosclerosis via MAPK/NF-κB signaling pathway in ApoE−/− mice
Authors: Zhang Shuguang , Zhang Shaohong , Liang Xuan , Huang Yilin , Tang Lei , Liu Fang , Xu Xiaozhuo , Ye Feicheng , Liu Jianwei , Liu Jing , Yan Shihai , Han Xu 
Published: February 2022

Background Atherosclerosis (AS), one of the leading causes of deaths and disabilities, is a kind of vascular disease of lipid disorders and chronic inflammation. Guanxinping (GXP) has been administrated in the treatment of AS for nearly 20 years with satisfying clinical response. This study aimed to explore its underlying mechanisms of anti-atherosclerotic effect in AS. Methods Male ApoE−/− mice were randomized into five groups and fed with either standard diet (control group, CON) or high-fat diet (HFD) for 12 weeks. HFD mice were further divided randomly and either fed continually with HFD as a model group, or atorvastatin (ATO), or low-dose GXP (LGXP), or high-dose GXP (HGXP). After 12 weeks, the body weight, serum triglyceride (TG), total cholesterol (TC), high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-c), and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-c) were detected. Moreover, serum inflammation cytokines including tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), interleukin-6 (IL-6), and interleukin-1β (IL-1β) concentrations were measured. The structure of aortic tissues was examined by hematoxylin-eosin staining. The mRNA expression of TNF-α, IL-6, and IL-1β were assessed by qPCR. The protein expressions of ICAM-1, VCAM-1, MCP-1, IL-6, IL-1β, p38MAPK, ERK1/2, JNK, IκB-α, and NF-κBp65 in the aorta were also detected. Results GXP treatment reduced serum TG, TC, and LDL-c levels in ApoE−/− mice. Moreover, GXP reduced lipid accumulation in the aorta of ApoE−/− mice, induced by HFD. Furthermore, GXP ameliorated the aorta morphological damage and reduced the serum TNF-α, IL-6, and IL-1β levels. GXP also attenuated the protein expression of ICAM-1, VCAM-1, MCP-1, IL-6, IL-1β, p38MAPK, ERK1/2, JNK, and NF-κBp65, whereas it increased the IκBα level in aortic tissues of ApoE−/− mice. Conclusions Our results show that GXP could ameliorate atherosclerosis, which is mediated by inhibition of the MAPK/NF-κB signaling pathway in ApoE−/− mice. This study provides evidence that GXP might be a promising drug for the treatment of AS.
Subchronic PCP effects on DNA methylation and protein expression of NMDA receptor subunit genes in the prefrontal cortex and hippocampus of female rats
Authors: Loureiro Camila M , Fachim Helene A , Harte Michael K , Dalton Caroline F , Reynolds Gavin P 
Published: February 2022

Background: N-methyl-d-aspartate receptor (NMDAR) dysfunction is implicated in schizophrenia, and NMDAR antagonists, such as phencyclidine (PCP), can induce behaviours that mimic aspects of the disorder. Aims: We investigated DNA methylation of Grin1, Grin2a and Grin2b promoter region and NR1 and NR2 protein expression in the prefrontal cortex (PFC) and hippocampus of adult female Lister-hooded rats following subchronic PCP (scPCP) administration. We also determined whether any alterations were tissue-specific. Methods: Rats were divided into two groups that received vehicle (0.9% saline) or 2 mg/kg PCP twice a day for 7 days (n = 10 per group). After behavioural testing (novel object recognition), to confirm a cognitive deficit, brains were dissected and NMDAR subunit DNA methylation and protein expression were analysed by pyrosequencing and ELISA. Line-1 methylation was determined as a measure of global methylation. Data were analysed using Student’s t-test and Pearson correlation. Results: The scPCP administration led to Grin1 and Grin2b hypermethylation and reduction in NR1 protein in both PFC and hippocampus. No significant differences were observed in Line-1 or Grin2a methylation and NR2 protein. Conclusions: The scPCP treatment resulted in increased DNA methylation at promoter sites of Grin1 and Grin2b NMDAR subunits in two brain areas implicated in schizophrenia, independent of any global change in DNA methylation, and are similar to our observations in a neurodevelopmental animal model of schizophrenia – social isolation rearing post-weaning. Moreover, these alterations may contribute to the changes in protein expression for NMDAR subunits demonstrating the potential importance of epigenetic mechanisms in schizophrenia.
MBL2 gene polymorphisms and its relation to infection in Brazilian systemic lupus erythematosus patients: A 10-years follow-up study
Authors: Saldanha Carla Forgiarini , Kniphoff da Silva Gabriela , Glesse Nadine , Tavares Brenol João Carlos , Xavier Ricardo Machado , Bogo Chies José Artur , Monticielo Odirlei André 
Published: February 2022

Introduction Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a multifactorial disease and MBL2 genetic variants, which are associated to differential peripheral MBL levels, potentially affect its etiology and increase infection risk in this population. Objective To evaluate the potential association of MBL2 polymorphisms of the coding and promoter gene region and haplotypes on hospitalization, number of admission and days of admission for major infection causes in Brazilian SLE patients. Methods: 325 SLE patients from a southern Brazilian outpatient SLE clinic were genotyped in 2006 for MBL2 gene polymorphisms from coding and promoter region (rs1800450, rs1800451, rs5030737, rs11003125, and rs7096206) and followed until 2016. Clinical and laboratory data from each patient were obtained and information regarding the need for hospitalization, the number of admissions and number of days admitted for infection treatment were compiled and compared with MBL2 gene polymorphisms and haplotypes. A linear regression analysis was constructed considering the variables of bivariate which demonstrated an association (p<0.05) and variables which had a theoretical basement. Results No difference was found in polymorphism prevalence when comparing the group that was admitted for infection treatment and the group who did not. Allele C, and haplotypes LY and HY correlated with more infection hospitalizations [wild-type homozygosis for C: 2 (IQR 1–3), heterozygosis for C: 3 (IQR 2–6) p=0.038; LY 2 (IQR 1–3) p=0.049; HY 2 (IQR 1–3) p=0.005] and haplotype HY carriers stayed fewer days in hospital for infection treatment: 18 (IQR 10–38) p=0.041. When linear regression was applied HY associated with shorter admission time for infections (−18.11 days, p=0.021) and HY (−1.52 admission, p 0.001) carriers with older age at diagnosis had less admissions for infection (HY regression model: −0.42, p=0.006; LY regression model −0.04, p=0.010; −0.04, p=0.013). Conclusion The presence of the HY promoter haplotype associated to fewer in hospital care for infection treatment probably due to higher MBL plasma levels. Also, HY haplotype and older age at SLE diagnosis is related to less admissions for infection. This factor should be taken into consideration, since infection is a very import cause of mortality in SLE patients being also related to aggressive immunosuppressive treatment.
Impact of Heat Shock Proteins in Neurodegeneration: Possible Therapeutical Targets
Authors: Beretta Giangiacomo , Shala Aida Loshaj 
Published: February 2022

Background: Human neurodegenerative diseases occur as a result of various factors. Regardless of the variety in the etiology of development, many of these diseases are characterized by the accumulation of pathological, misfolded proteins; hence, such diseases are considered as proteinopathies. While plenty of research study has been conducted in order to identify the pathophysiology of these proteinopathies, there is still a lack of understanding in terms of potential therapeutic targets. Summary: Molecular chaperones present the main workforce for cellular protection and stress response. Therefore, considering these functions, molecular chaperones present a promising target for research within the field of conformational diseases that arise from proteinopathies. Since the association between neurodegenerative disorders and their long-term consequences is well documented, the need for the development of new therapeutic strategies becomes even more critical Key message: In this review, we summarized the molecular function of heat shock proteins and recent progress on their role, involvement, and other mechanisms related to neurodegeneration caused by different etiological factors. Based on the relevant scientific data, we will highlight the functional classification of heat shock proteins, regulation, and their therapeutic potential for neurodegenerative disorders.
Mother Nature: An initial exploration of new potential for attachment theory
Authors: Jenkins Matthew 
Published: February 2022

Objective This study aims to postulate new theory regarding attachment theory and its relationship to the natural world via an analysis of the existing literature regarding environmental and ecological psychology alongside what is known about attachment theory. Additionally, it draws on wider literature (including folklore) pertaining to anthropology and nomadic societies as well as indigenous societies with reference to New Zealand. Conclusions Although merely an introductory overview, there is convincing evidence to support a case that our relationship with nature is of paramount importance for human well-being and wider societal well-being and that this relationship has been corrupted via the developed world and progressive disconnect from nature. This disconnect could be categorised through the lens of attachment theory whereby an insecure attachment has subsequently developed. This insecure attachment predisposes us, as a species, to neglect, denigrate and commodify the natural world which, in turn, is giving rise to climate change and its own psychological sequelae. However, discrepancies such as trauma arising from natural disasters suggest a more nuanced approach is needed as our relationship with nature is not entirely without danger, and, as such, there remain significant gaps when unifying this under the umbrella of attachment theory without further research/extrapolation of its importance.
Longitudinal Predictors of Mother- and Child-Report of Maternal Support Following Child Sexual Abuse
Authors: Rancher Caitlin , Are Funlola , Goodrum Nada M. , Smith Daniel W. 
Published: February 2022

Maternal support is theorized as a critical predictor of children’s recovery from sexual abuse. However, following disclosure, several factors may cause maternal support to fluctuate over time. This study examined the effects of hypothesized risk factors, mother’s relationship to the perpetrator and maternal psychological distress, as well as protective factors, maternal belief of disclosure, lower levels of child blame, and mother–child relationship quality, as predictors of change in maternal support over a 9 month period. Mothers ( Mage = 38.42, SD = 8.99) and their children ( Mage = 11.57, SD = 2.69; 85% female), recruited from a child advocacy center following sexual abuse disclosure, completed measures of maternal support. Mothers reported on their relationship to the perpetrator, psychological distress, belief of disclosure, child blame, and mother–child relationship quality. On average, mother- and child-reports of maternal support were stable across time. Belief of disclosure and child blame predicted mother- and child-report of maternal support. Psychological distress and mother–child relationship quality predicted change in mother-report, but not child-report of maternal support. Researchers and clinicians should consider potential fluctuations in maternal support in assessment and intervention following child sexual abuse.