study

Bundle	Discourse Function	Text distribution

in the present study in the present study we in this study	Introducing topics and ideas [1]	discussion
[1] Ex: In the present study, we describe a simple procedure
Note: very common in initial position; frequently followed by a personal pronoun (e.g. "we")

the present study	Introducing topics and ideas [1]	discussion
[1] Ex: Accordingly, the present study was designed to determine the mechanisms […]
Note: When justifying previous studies, it is often preceded by "Accordingly", whereas when refuting previous studies, it is often introduced by "However"

		discussion
in this study in the present study in a previous study in the current study	Framing [1]
		methods / materials and methods
[1] Ex: In this study, we describe that…/ In the present study, we identify GSTp as a JNK inhibitor./ The activator used in the current study is the Drosophila homeodomain protein Bicoid.
Note: tends to appear in initial position (frequently followed by the personal pronoun "we" or preceded by a passive participle; e.g. used/done/observed ~

used in this study	Describing materials & Describing procedures [1]	methods / materials and methods
[1] Ex: Rats and human DNA were used in this study.