bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The association between changes of gustatory function and changes of salivary parameters: A pilot study
Authors: Zhu Yunmeng , Feron Gilles , Von Koskull Dorothee , Neiers Fabrice , Brignot Helene , Hummel Thomas
Published: December 2020

Objective

The aim of the pilot study was to explore which of the salivary parameters best reflects improvement or deterioration of taste function.

Methods

A total of 14 patients were included. Taste ability was measured using taste strips and patients rated their symptom strength using visual analogue scales. Salivary parameters (flow rate, total proteins, proteolysis, catalase, total anti‐oxidative capacity [TAC], carbonic anhydrase VI [caVI], and pH) were determined and the Beck Depression Inventory (BDI) was administered. All these parameters were measured twice with a one‐year interval to acquire the changes of data.

Results

Patients with decreased taste function exhibited a decrease in salivary proteolysis and caVI, and an increase in salivary total protein. Patients with increased taste function also showed an increase in salivary total protein. Δ Salivary flow rate was negatively correlated with Δ taste strip scores. Δ Salivary pH was significantly lower in patients with increased taste function compared to patients with decreased taste function. Δ BDI was positively correlated with both Δ symptoms ratings. Across all patients, symptom ratings decreased while salivary total protein increased; salivary flow rate, proteolysis and caVI decreased significantly compared with baseline.

Conclusions

The present longitudinal results suggest that changes of both taste function and taste complaints were accompanied by changes in salivary parameters, indicating that salivary parameters have the potential to be useful in the diagnosis of patients with qualitative taste disorders.
Assisted colonization of a regionally native predator impacts benthic invertebrates in fishless mountain lakes
Authors: Banting Allison L. K. , Taylor Mark K. , Vinebrooke Rolf D. , Carli Chris M. , Poesch Mark S.
Published: December 2020

The intentional introduction of native cold‐water trout into high‐elevation fishless lakes has been considered a tool to build resilience to climate change (i.e., assisted colonization); however, ecological impacts on recipient communities are understudied. The purpose of this study was to inform native cold‐water trout recovery managers by assessing potential consequences of translocating a regionally native trout (westslope cutthroat trout; Oncorhynchus clarkii lewisi) into fishless mountain lakes. This study compared littoral benthic invertebrate richness, diversity, community structure and abundance between three groups of lakes (fishless, native trout, nonnative trout) in the Canadian Rocky Mountains. While richness and diversity were preserved across all lake groups, other lines of evidence suggested that the introduction of native westslope cutthroat trout into fishless lakes can alter littoral benthic invertebrate communities in similar ways as nonnative brook trout (Salvelinus fontinalis). The community structure of cutthroat trout lakes resembled brook trout lakes compared to that of fishless lakes. For example, both trout‐lake groups contained a lower density of free‐swimming ameletid mayflies and a higher density of certain burrowing taxa. Risk assessments for trout‐recovery actions should consider the potential for collateral damage to recipient invertebrate communities. Future research should identify possible cascading trophic effects on species subsidized by invertebrate prey.
Pocket‐creation method enables colorectal endoscopic submucosal dissection for local recurrence with residual endoclips
Authors: Yamashita Shinpei , Sunada Keijiro , Yamamoto Hironori
Published: December 2020

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Modified endoscopic unroofing enucleation using nylon ring traction for a large gastric lipoma
Authors: Tada Naoya , Kobara Hideki , Masaki Tsutomu
Published: December 2020

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Fish assemblages of the St. Joseph River Watershed, Indiana: Effects of mainstem dams
Authors: Pyron Mark , Deegan Daragh J.
Published: December 2020

We tested for effects of two dams on fish assemblages in the St. Joseph River, Indiana. Fishes were collected by boat electrofisher twice annually, at 23 sites from 1998 to 2018. Fish collection data were aggregated into CPUE counts of species per 500 m, and CPUE were pooled across sites above and below the dams. We used multivariate analyses to test for spatial and temporal variation for assemblages above and below dams. Assemblages above and downstream of the dams differed significantly when examined by collection year. The effects (abundances of fish species) of the dams on fish assemblages were different at the South Bend dam from those at the Elkhart dam. Trajectories of temporal change in fish assemblages above and below dams were all gradual and directional. Temporal variation in fish abundance categorised into trophic traits (guilds) differed by location. We suggest that moderate to high stress from anthropogenic impacts on the St. Joseph River appears to result in high assemblage variation above and below dams. The St. Joseph River fish community appears to be unstable, likely from multiple anthropogenic impacts to water quality, habitat degradation and hydrologic alteration. We found that 25 of 33 hydrologic variables in four of five Indicators of Hydrological Alteration groups were significantly altered from 1931 to 2019. However, hydrology variation as potential disturbance events did not visually match observed temporal assemblage variation.
Modification of national OSCE due to COVID‐19 – Implementation and students’ feedback
Authors: Hytönen Hanna , Näpänkangas Ritva , Karaharju‐Suvanto Terhi , Eväsoja Taina , Kallio Anu , Kokkari Anne , Tuononen Tiina , Lahti Satu
Published: December 2020

Aim

The aims were to describe the development of a modified national online OSCE during COVID‐19 and assess related student feedback.

Material and methods

The modified online OSCE comprising of eight question entities was organised simultaneously in all four dental institutes of Finland using the Moodle virtual learning environment. All fourth‐year students (n = 179) attended the examination online at home. Student feedback was collected via an anonymous questionnaire with multiple‐choice questions and open‐ended questions concerning attitudes towards the modified online OSCE, as well as content and usability of the question entities in the examination. Means and standard deviations were calculated for multiple‐choice questions. Content analysis was used for open‐ended questions.

Results

Of 179 students, 119 (66%) consented to the study. Students experienced they had received adequate information (mean 3.8; SD 1.2), had a positive attitude before the examination (4.0; 1.0) and found the practice test useful (3.7; 1.1) (range 1–5). Technical implementation (2.7; 0.7) and the difficulty of the questions (2.9; 0.6) (range 1–4) were found to be good. The teaching students received during their studies was sufficient (3.2; 0.5) (range 1–4). Content (mean 3.2; 0.4) and usability (2.9; 0.4) of the question entities were good (range 1–4). The themes arising from open‐ended questions were importance and practicality of the topic (in questions) in relation to the work of a dentist and gratitude for the rapid conversion of the OSCE into an online examination despite COVID‐19. The themes arising from negative experiences included difficulties in completing the examination within the time allocated, and dissatisfaction with the model answers provided after the examination.

Conclusion

The positive student feedback towards the modified online OSCE encourages including an online examination to complement the traditional OSCE.
Knowledge of dental enamel defects amongst undergraduate dental students—a cross‐sectional survey
Authors: Masri Abdul Azim bin Haji Awang , Khang Kevin Koay Yung , Shen Leon Low Wei , Ekambaram Manikandan , Loch Carolina
Published: December 2020

Introduction/Objectives

Enamel defects are disturbances in the quantity or quality of enamel, due to disruption or damage to the enamel organ during amelogenesis. The correct diagnosis of enamel defects is critical as diverse management options could be required for different conditions. Difficulties in diagnosis can happen, because these defects may have similar clinical presentations. This study evaluated the diagnostic skills in enamel defects of dental students of a prominent Australasian school.

Methods

A questionnaire consisting of clinical photographs of the affected teeth/dentition in multiple views and four standardised questions for each case of enamel defect were given to Year 4 and Year 5 students.

Results

Localised/Chronological Hypoplasia had the lowest percentage of correct diagnosis (20.5%), whilst Enamel White Spot Lesions (EWSLs) had the highest (85%). Localised/Chronological Hypoplasia had the lowest aetiology score (20.5%), and the highest was obtained for EWSLs (85%). In regard to which question to ask to gain insight into the conditions, Enamel Hypomineralisation/MIH had the lowest score for both Year 4 and Year 5 respondents (35.4% and 21.3%). Most respondents agreed more teaching in this topic was needed, with further clinical sessions to observe the enamel defects, workshops/seminars, lectures and student‐driven presentations suggested.

Conclusion

Final‐year dental students showed variable knowledge in diagnosis, aetiology and clinical management of enamel defects. Further didactic and clinical teaching should be incorporated in the undergraduate curriculum on this topic .
Overconfidence in visual perception in parkinson's disease
Authors: Halperin Orly , Karni Roie , Israeli‐Korn Simon , Hassin‐Baer Sharon , Zaidel Adam
Published: December 2020

Increased dependence on visual cues in Parkinson's disease (PD) can unbalance the perception‐action loop, impair multisensory integration, and affect everyday function of PD patients. It is currently unknown why PD patients seem to be more reliant on their visual cues. We hypothesized that PD patients may be overconfident in the reliability (precision) of their visual cues. In this study we tested coherent visual motion perception in PD, and probed subjective (self‐reported) confidence in their visual motion perception. Twenty patients with idiopathic PD, 21 healthy aged‐matched controls and 20 healthy young adult participants were presented with visual stimuli of moving dots (random dot kinematograms). They were asked to report: (1) whether the aggregate motion of dots was to the left or to the right, and (2) how confident they were that their perceptual discrimination was correct. Visual motion discrimination thresholds were similar (unimpaired) in PD compared to the other groups. By contrast, PD patients were significantly overconfident in their visual perceptual decisions (p = .002 and p < .001 vs. the age‐matched and young adult groups, respectively). These results suggest intact visual motion perception, but overestimation of visual cue reliability, in PD. Overconfidence in visual (vs. other, e.g., somatosensory) cues could underlie increased visual dependence and impaired multisensory/sensorimotor integration in PD. It could thereby contribute to gait and balance impairments, and affect everyday activities, such as driving. Future work should investigate and compare PD confidence in somatosensory function. A better understanding of altered sensory reliance might open up new avenues to treat debilitating PD symptoms.
Uncovering patterns of freshwater positive interactions using meta‐analysis: Identifying the roles of common participants, invasive species and environmental context
Authors: Albertson Lindsey K. , MacDonald Michael J. , Tumolo Benjamin B. , Briggs Michelle A. , Maguire Zachary , Quinn Sierra , Sanchez‐Ruiz Jose A. , Veneros Jaris , Burkle Laura A.
Published: December 2020

Positive interactions are sensitive to human activities, necessitating synthetic approaches to elucidate broad patterns and predict future changes if these interactions are altered or lost. General understanding of freshwater positive interactions has been far outpaced by knowledge of these important relationships in terrestrial and marine ecosystems. We conducted a global meta‐analysis to evaluate the magnitude of positive interactions across freshwater habitats. In 340 studies, we found substantial positive effects, with facilitators increasing beneficiaries by, on average, 81% across all taxa and response variables. Mollusks in particular were commonly studied as both facilitators and beneficiaries. Amphibians were one group benefiting the most from positive interactions, yet few studies investigated amphibians. Invasive facilitators had stronger positive effects on beneficiaries than non‐invasive facilitators. We compared positive effects between high‐ and low‐stress conditions and found no difference in the magnitude of benefit in the subset of studies that manipulated stressors. Future areas of research include understudied facilitators and beneficiaries, the stress gradient hypothesis, patterns across space or time and the influence of declining taxa whose elimination would jeopardise fragile positive interaction networks. Freshwater positive interactions occur among a wide range of taxa, influence populations, communities and ecosystem processes and deserve further exploration.
Quantifying the risk of disease reactivation after interferon and glatiramer acetate discontinuation in multiple sclerosis: The VIAADISC score
Authors: Bsteh Gabriel , Hegen Harald , Riedl Katharina , Altmann Patrick , Auer Michael , Berek Klaus , Di Pauli Franziska , Ehling Rainer , Kornek Barbara , Monschein Tobias , Rinner Walter , Schmied Christiane , Wurth Sebastian , Zebenholzer Karin , Zinganell Anne , Zrzavy Tobias , Zulehner Gudrun , Deisenhammer Florian , Rommer Paulus , Leutmezer Fritz , Berger Thomas
Published: December 2020

Background and purpose

There is a lack of evidence guiding discontinuation of disease‐modifying therapy (DMT) in relapsing multiple sclerosis (RMS). Thus, the objective of this study was to generate and validate a risk score for disease reactivation after DMT discontinuation in RMS.

Methods

We drew a generation and validation dataset from two separate prospectively collected observational databases including RMS patients who received interferon‐β or glatiramer acetate for ≥12 months, then discontinued DMT for ≥6 months and had ≥2 years of follow‐up available. In the generation sample (n = 168), regression analysis was performed to identify clinical or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) variables independently predicting disease reactivation after DMT discontinuation. A predictive score was calculated using the variables included in the multivariable model and applied to the validation sample (n = 98).

Results

The variables included in the final model as independent predictors of disease reactivation were age at discontinuation, MRI activity at discontinuation, and duration of clinical stability (all p < 0.001). The resulting score was able to robustly identify patients at high (83%–85%), moderate (36%–38%), and low risk (7%) of disease reactivation within 5 years after DMT discontinuation in both cohorts.

Conclusions

The composite VIAADISC score is a valuable tool to inform and support patients and neurologists in the process of decision making to discontinue injectable DMTs.
Challenging Bigger, Faster, Easier, Broader
Authors: Chen Afra , Kleinman Lisa , Yury Carry
Published: December 2020

In this session, we consider how ethnographic perspectives illuminate the importance of goals beside or alongside ‘bigger, faster, easier, broader’ and how we re‐orient stakeholders to new goals while still creating business value. We'll discuss shared challenges and strategies for building corporate models of scale that can speak to and learn from alternative goals and metrics.
Repurposing Risograph Machines: The Allure of Small‐Scale Printmaking in the Era of Big Data
Authors: LEE JOYCE S.
Published: December 2020

Paper documents are increasingly being replaced with digital files, infinitely replicable for seemingly no cost. Yet I've always felt the pull of paper, with a personal affinity for physical books and a background in magazine production. Through my recreational publishing practice, I learn of the “riso” or risograph, a duplicating machine increasingly adopted by Bay Area artists and technology corporations alike. Upon first glance, most risograph models resemble familiar Xerox machines, with their boxy, gray exteriors, protruding buttons, and hinged tops that cover glass beds for scanning.

Through my own experiences and interviews with subject matter experts, however, I come to understand the allure of the risograph: its temperamental nature as an analog machine and the uniquely “human” quality of the prints it renders. I posit the risograph's popularity is a response to technological advances and resulting societal changes, acting as a reprieve to digital modes of aesthetic and community engagement. The rise of the risograph machine thus suggests both the appeal and the limits of scale: its origins as a low‐cost printer among artists highlight the draw of multiplicity, whereas its adoption among tech companies, ironically, suggest the limits of seemingly infinite content and growth.
Trees and Forests
Authors: Chen Afra , Kleinman Lisa , Yury Carry
Published: December 2020

When should systems know us as people and not as just data? Who watches the watcher when abstractions and aggregated data are used to make decisions about our lives? The flow of information and data between human and machine systems are a source of both progress and anxiety. In this session, we consider how a change in perspective (scale) leads to shifts in how data is contextualized and understood. Implications are presented on the ethnographer's role within these systems and as the watcher of them.
Scale and the Gaze of a Machine
Authors: BECKWITH RICHARD , SHERRY JOHN
Published: December 2020

Scale suffuses the work we do and, recently, has us considering an aspect of scale best suited to those with ethnographic training. We've been asked to help with scaling up one of the latest blockbusters in high tech – deep learning. Advances in deep learning have enabled technology to be programmed to not only see who we are by using facial ID systems and hear what we say by using natural language systems; machines are now even programmed to recognize what we do with vision‐based activity recognition. However, machines often define the objects of their gaze at the wrong scale. Rather than “look for” people or objects, with deep learning, machines typically look for patterns at the smallest scale possible. In multiple projects, we've found that insights from anthropology are needed to inform both the scale and uses of these systems.
Where Can We Find an Ethics for Scale? How to Define an Ethical Infrastructure for the Development of Future Technologies at Global Scale
Authors: DULL IAN , BAUM FANI NTAVELOU , HUGHES THOMAS
Published: December 2020

Despite companies facing real consequences for getting ethics wrong, basic ethical questions in emerging technologies remain unresolved. Companies have begun trying to answer these tough questions, but their techniques are often hindered by the classical approach of moral philosophy and ethics – namely normative philosophy – which prescribe an approach to resolving ethical dilemmas from the outset, based on assumed moral truths. In contrast, we propose that a key foundation for ‘getting ethics right’ is to do the opposite: to discover them, by going out into the world to study how relevant people resolve similar ethical dilemmas in their daily lives – a project we term ‘grounded ethics'. Building from Durkheim's theory of moral facts and more recent developments in the anthropology of morals and ethics, this paper explores the methods and theory useful to such a mission – synthesizing these into a framework to guide future ‘grounded ethics’ practice.
Scaling Experience Measurement: Capturing and Quantifying User Experiences across the Real Estate Journey
Authors: HAZEN REBECCA J , MANGUM GENNY , SOUHLAS TOM
Published: December 2020

Zillow is undergoing a major evolution, transitioning from serving as the world's largest digital marketplace for real estate advertising into an end‐to‐end platform to support customers across the phases of buying, selling, and renting homes. As Zillow expands into more transactional spaces, the company has recognized the need to develop a clear and actionable understanding of users and their experiences as they interact with our products and services. To address this need, we set out to establish an Experience Measurement program to provide organization‐wide visibility into how well our Zillow experiences meet users’ needs and expectations as they progress through their real estate journey. This program will enable teams to gain insights at the intersection of attitudinal and behavioral experience data and lead us to our end goal of empowering informed decision‐making across all levels of the experience and organization.

In this paper, we provide an overview of our approach to establishing an Experience Measurement program at Zillow. We focus on a small subset of Experience Outcomes (XOs) in an initial feasibility study to develop a program that would scale and drive impact in assessment and decision making across lines of business. Finally, we share lessons learned throughout the process of developing and validating the framework and discuss the impact of this work on current and future organizational outcomes.
Ghost in the Machine: How Taxonomic Metadata Allows for Scaling Ethnographic Insights into Search Algorithms
Authors: KRAUSS AMANDA , TEODORESCU ALEXANDRA , YARDENAY LEORA
Published: December 2020

This case study explores how we personalized search results by turning ethnographic insights into taxonomic metadata, which in turn allowed us to use quantitative methods to assess business impact. The first part of the case study focuses on the problem we were trying to solve—creating better search results for nurses—and using ethnographic interviews to understand how nurses approached looking for jobs. The second part of the study dives more deeply into how metadata works, and why it was the perfect partner for capturing our ethnographic findings and making them into a scalable and measurable part of the design process. The third part of the study details how we tested and scaled our designs in the live project, and why we believe others might benefit from using a similar approach. Keywords: mental models, taxonomy, business impact.
Fighting Conspiracy Theories Online at Scale
Authors: PARK REBEKAH , ZAX DAVID , GOLDBERG BETH
Published: December 2020

This 2019 project conducted in the US and the UK sought to understand which conspiracy theories are harmful and which are benign, with an eye towards finding ways to combat disinformation and extremism. This case study demonstrates how ethnographic methods led to insights on what “triggered” conspiracy belief, the social and emotional roles conspiracy theories played in believers’ lives, and how conspiracy belief was often a reflection of a person's sense of societal alienation. We discovered that any extreme interpretation of a conspiracy theory could be harmful. The findings of this project changed how the client —‐ and by extension the developers behind major tech platforms —‐ understood harmful conspiracy‐related content. The aim of this project was to inform how to scale and amplify the work of individual conspiracy debunkers.
Isolation and Connection
Authors: Hanover Evan , Lee Thomas , O'Curry Elena , Steager Tabitha
Published: December 2020

This session draws on experiences ranging from early ethnographic accounts of life on islands, COVID‐19 hospital wards, and the International Space Station to explore how we work and live in a period of enforced distancing and isolation.
Overcoming
Authors: Hanover Evan , Lee Thomas , O'Curry Elena , Steager Tabitha
Published: December 2020

This session identifies three scale‐related challenges for applying ethnography in business and distills practical lessons for overcoming these challenges. First is the challenge of initializing and sustaining ethnographic practice in large scale organizations. Second are the organizational and cultural barriers to scaling ethnographic research within firms. Third is the challenge of resolving the scale differences between qualitative and quantitative research when trying to integrate the two methodologies.
DIYing along with DIYers: Juggling with Scales During Home‐Improvement Research
Authors: MONTAGU GUILLAUME
Published: December 2020

As a team of researchers was asked by a French home‐improvement retailer to redefine their strategy, they designed and carried out an ethnographic and quantitative research to identify new business opportunities. But no sooner had they set foot in field, they were struck not only by the richness and complexity of such ordinary activities to the point they asked themselves if these practices were even measurable? Scaling from ethnography to quantitative research was not as seamless as they expected, they had to find their way to deal with two sets of data that belong to different scales if not ontological worlds. Are these two scales really strictly separated? Can't there be a way to combine them and to make them coincide? Based on the study of DIYing practices, this case study presents an attempt to integrate ethnographic and quantitative research and the challenge of resolving the scale differences between two methodologies. From turning DIYers into numbers and vice‐versa, it explores the implications of ethnography, questionnaire design and data analysis.
Remdesivir potently inhibits carboxylesterase‐2 through covalent modifications: signifying strong drug‐drug interactions
Authors: Shen Yue , Eades William , Yan Bingfang
Published: December 2020

Remdesivir was recently approved to treat COVID‐19. While this antiviral agent delivers clinical benefits, several safety concerns in many cases have been raised. This study reports that remdesivir at nanomolar concentrations inhibits carboxylesterase‐2 (CES2) through covalent modifications. CES2 is a major drug‐metabolizing enzyme. The combination of high potency with irreversible inhibition concludes that cautions must be exercised when remdesivir is used along with drugs hydrolyzed by CES2.
Fracture mechanics‐based criteria for fatigue fracture of rolling bearings under the influence of defects
Authors: Watanuki Daisuke , Tsutsumi Masako , Hidaka Hideyuki , Wada Kentaro , Matsunaga Hisao
Published: December 2020

Fatigue tests were carried out on real bearings with various types of artificial defects on their outer‐ring raceways. Finite element analysis (FEM) revealed that the stress intensity factor (SIF) ranges and stress ratios were complex and variable, depending on the gap fittings between the outer rings and housings, as well as on the sizes of the initial defects, both of which influenced the fatigue thresholds of the bearings. In order to establish a comprehensive evaluation of fatigue limits under several combinations of bearing geometries and defect sizes, fatigue crack‐growth thresholds were also measured at different stress ratios by focusing on crack‐closure behaviour. Based on all of the analytical and experimental results, fracture mechanics‐based criteria were proposed for the assessment of fatigue fracture in rolling bearings.
Motherhood and guilt in a pandemic: Negotiating the “new” normal with a feminist identity
Authors: Whiley Lilith A. , Sayer Hazel , Juanchich Marie
Published: December 2020

Mothers who work and identify as feminists have been thrust into a new ”COVID‐19 normal,” finding themselves taking on roles that are “at odds” with their feminist identity (i.e., the bulk of more “traditional” stay‐at‐home parenting, homeschooling, and domestic chores), while simultaneously navigating the expectations of neoliberal careerism embedded within female emancipation discourses that have been so hard‐won. In this piece, we draw on critical femininities to highlight how these identities are embedded in several push–pull discourses that simultaneously resonate and discord, and show that these understandings are difficult to detangle from neoliberal social constructions and expectations that have women self‐policing even their inner psyche lest we become “bad” feminists. Furthermore, we acknowledge how our sensemaking in this paper and our experiences are rooted in (and limited by) the socioeconomic privileges of being western white middle‐class cis‐gender women in predominantly non‐precarious positions—indeed, mothers who work are not a homogenous group and the many different voices reflect different levels of job security.
Numerical and experimental study of ion exchange in porcelain tiles
Authors: Dal Bó Marcelo , Cargnin Maykon , Souza Bruna N. de , das Neves Wenceslau F. , Fredel Márcio C. , Hotza Dachamir
Published: December 2020

Recently ion exchange, also known as chemical tempering, has been applied to strengthening of porcelain tiles based on the substitution of ions present in the material by larger ones. This paper investigates the chemical tempering in industrial porcelain tiles by the variation of process parameters such as temperature, immersion time, and chemical composition of the porcelain tile. Furthermore, a numerical simulation of the ionic diffusion process was applied. Using a design of experiments approach, the results show that the temperature and the chemical composition primarily affected the flexural strength of the tile. The largest increment obtained was 37% resulting in a porcelain tile with flexural strength of 73 MPa after chemical tempering. Through numerical simulation, it was possible to estimate a diffusion coefficient of potassium ions equal to 1.25 × 10−14 m2·s−1 into the porcelain tile microstructure. This value is about 10 times higher than the diffusion coefficient in glasses.
Consumer financial literacy and the efficiency of mortgage‐related decisions: New evidence from the Panel Study of Income dynamics
Authors: Bialowolski Piotr , Cwynar Andrzej , Xiao Jing Jian , Weziak‐Bialowolska Dorota
Published: December 2020

This study evaluated the link between financial literacy and household mortgage decisions. To this end, the longitudinal data set for the U.S. population from the Panel Study of Income Dynamics (PSID) was used. Evidence for links between financial literacy levels and (1) mortgage uptake, (2) mortgage interest rates and (3) mortgage refinancing decisions were examined using the two waves (2015 and 2017) of PSID data, combined with the 2016 PSID supplementary questionnaire examining the measured financial literacy of household members. Our results revealed a positive link between financial literacy and mortgage possession and, additionally, between financial literacy and the subsequent decision to take out a mortgage. Moreover, higher financial literacy scores were associated with lower mortgage interests and a greater likelihood of mortgage refinancing. On average, a household that refinanced its mortgage was able to reduce its interest rate by almost 0.7 percentage points, providing evidence of the positive role of financial literacy in securing better mortgage terms.
Implementation of photographic triage in a paediatric dental, orthodontic, and maxillofacial department during COVID‐19
Authors: Davies Anna , Howells Ryan , Lee Sharon M. G. , Sweet Chris J. , Dominguez‐Gonzalez Susana
Published: December 2020

Background

During the COVID‐19 pandemic, limitations were placed on face‐to‐face encounters in dentistry and oral and maxillofacial surgery (OMFS) in order to promote physical distancing and reduce viral propagation. To facilitate continued assessment of dental, orthodontic, and maxillofacial emergencies, a photographic triage system was initiated at Alder Hey Children's Hospital (AHCH). We will discuss the benefits this system offers at a patient, clinician, departmental, and NHS service level.

Aim

To share our experience of photographic triage during the first 3 months of COVID‐19 lockdown, lessons learned, and recommendations.

Design

Prospective data collection over 3 months.

Results

220 photographic referrals were received, and swelling (30%) and dental trauma (27%) were the most common presenting complaints. 57% of referrals were not seen, 23% were seen semi‐urgently, and 20% booked for outpatient review. Of those seen, 7 children were seen elsewhere and 44 were seen face‐to‐face at AHCH, with 8 being admitted.

Conclusion

Photographic triage reduced physical encounters and proved useful in training junior staff, assessment of new patient referrals, and first on‐call from home. Implementation should be considered throughout dental, orthodontic, and OMFS departments nationwide. In the event of a COVID‐19 resurgence or emergence of a new pandemic, photographic triage could facilitate physical distancing and service provision.
Yield response of wheat grown under periodic heat stress imposed by using mini heat tents
Authors: Kaur Jaspreet , Sandhu Sandeep S. , Sharma Sandeep
Published: December 2020

Heat stress is a major factor affecting growth and productivity of wheat. A study was conducted at Ludhiana, Punjab, India with an objective to find out the impact of periodic (15 days) heat stress in wheat grown under natural field conditions. The heat stress treatments consisted of control (no heat stress), heat stress during 0–15, 16–30, 31–45, 46–60, 61–75, 76–90, 91–105, 106–120, 121–135, 136 days after sowing (DAS) to harvest. Heat stress (seasonal average maximum temperature higher than optimum temperature by 4.3 and 2.7°C during 2016–2017 and 2017–2018, respectively) was imposed by using mini heat tents made of galvanized iron pipes covered with transparent polyethene sheets. The mini heat tents were installed for 15 days duration in the plots according to the treatments and were removed at the end of 15th day. On the next day, they were installed in plots of the next treatment level. Heat tents were never installed on control plots. Increase in temperature in the mini heat tents was not controlled and was allowed to increase naturally. However, the excessive heating in the tents was prevented by opening the southern side during day time. Heat stress resulted in a significant increase in the membrane injury index and a decrease in chlorophyll content. Heat stress reduced the activity of dehydrogenase in rhizosphere and bulk soil. Heat stress from 76–90 and 91–105 DAS significantly reduced the ear length and number of grains ear‐1. Heat stress during 106–120 and 121–135 DAS decreased thousand grain weight significantly. Application of heat stress between 61–75, 76–90, 91–105, 106–120 and 121–135 DAS decreased grain yield significantly by 16.0, 19.8, 22.1, 16.4 and 14.8% during 2016–2017 and 11.8, 15.3, 18.8, 13.9 and 12.6% during 2017–2018, respectively, as compared to that obtained under control conditions. Apart from effects of heat stress on crops, the present study also highlights the design and possibility of using cost‐effective, small size and portable mini heat tents for conducting heat stress studies in different field crops.
Structural and microstructural features of lead‐free BNT–BT thin films: Nanoscale electromechanical response analysis
Authors: Mendez‐González Yanela , Ferri Anthony , Lima Elton C. , Hamieh Ahmad , Remiens Denis , Peláiz‐Barranco Aimé , Silva Atair C. , de los Santos Guerra José
Published: December 2020

The structural, microstructural, and electromechanical properties have been investigated at the nanoscale, as a function of the lanthanum concentration, in Bi0.506Na0.46Ba0.08–3x/2LaxTiO3 (x = 0, 2 and 3 at %) (BNLBT–x) lead‐free thin films. The structural characterization, investigated from X‐ray diffraction and Raman spectroscopy, confirmed the formation of the perovskite structure and suggests the coexistence of both antiferroelectric (tetragonal) and ferroelectric (rhombohedral) phases. The surface morphology, characterized by atomic force microscopy, has shown a dense and crack‐free nanostructured surface for all the studied compositions, noting that the increase in the lanthanum content promoted a decrease in both the grain size and surface roughness. PFM imaging analyses have evidenced the ferroelectric domain structure over the surface, as well as the presence of non–piezoelectric regions attributed to the antiferroelectric phase. PFM spectroscopy measurements revealed a reliable switching behavior for locally probed ferroelectric domains, yielding a noticeable local piezoactivity, which indeed shows to increase with the increase in the doping content. The static domain wall was also analyzed in terms of the nanoscale domain structure, and the obtained dimensionality indicated a local electric field‐induced structural disorder. The clear local piezo/ferroelectric nature highlighted on the studied materials underlines the potential for applications of the BNLBT–x films for their integration into advanced electronic nanodevices.
Processing and thermal properties of mayenite electride
Authors: Mackey Jon , Back Tyson , Berger Marie‐Hélène , Sayir Ali
Published: December 2020

A mayenite‐based electride is being considered for field emitter applications where it will be critical to have a good understanding of processing repeatability and thermal properties. This paper focuses on the details of processing of mayenite compounds in a strongly reducing graphite environment to form an electride solid‐solution phase as Ca12Al14O32(C2,O2)1‐x(e2)x. The work reports, in addition to processing details, several thermal properties. The electride phase was found to have coefficient of thermal expansion (CTE) of 7e‐6 K−1, thermal diffusivity between 0.0063 and 0.0102 cm2/s, and thermal conductivity between 1.9 and 3.1 W m−1 K−1. Rattling motion of O2− or C22− ions in cage structure has been suggested to explain low thermal conductivity of the electride phase.
Dense and core‐rim structured B4C‐TiB2 ceramics with Mo‐Co‐WC additive
Authors: Tan Da‐Wang , Lao Zhen‐Yong , Zhang Zhan , Guo Wei‐Ming , Sun Shi‐Kuan , Lin Hua‐Tay
Published: December 2020

B4C‐TiB2 ceramics (TiB2 ranging 5~70 vol%) with Mo‐Co‐WC as the sintering additive were prepared by spark plasma sintering. In comparison with B4C‐TiB2 without additive, the enhanced densification was evident in the sintered specimen with Mo‐Co‐WC additive. Core‐rim structured grain was observed around TiB2 grains. The interface of the rim between TiB2 and B4C phases demonstrated different feature: the inner borderline of the rim exhibited a smooth feature, whereas a sharp curved grain boundary was observed between the rim and the B4C grain. The formation mechanism is discussed: the epitaxial growth of (Ti,Mo,W)B2 rim around the TiB2 core may occur as a result of the solid solution and dissolution‐precipitation between TiB2 phase and the sintering additive. It was revealed that the fracture toughness increased as the content of TiB2 content increased, alongside the decreased hardness. B4C‐30 vol% TiB2 specimen demonstrated the optimal combination of mechanical properties, reaching Vickers hardness of 24.3 GPa and fracture toughness of 3.33 MPa·m1/2.
Investigating text‐picture integration in videos with the multimedia contradiction paradigm
Authors: Schüler Anne , Merkt Martin
Published: December 2020

In two experiments, the multimedia contradiction paradigm was used to investigate whether learners map information conveyed through the audio and the picture track of a video. In Experiment 1 (N = 85), the information conveyed through the audio track and the picture track was always consistent (control group) or was made inconsistent by changing the audio track at one point in time (text‐wrong group). Experiment 2 (N = 143) added a second inconsistent condition by changing the picture track at one point in time (picture‐wrong group). In both experiments, the learners' gaze behaviour differed from that of the control group when inconsistent information was presented in the experimental groups. This indicates that mapping processes—which are an indispensable part of integration—occur when learners process videos. Regarding learning outcomes, no differences between groups were observed. In addition, only a few learners remembered the conflict after learning. Further, recall shifted towards the pictorial information when learners encountered conflict.
Migration of an ingested fishbone to the uterine wall: A case report
Authors: Kanaoka Yasushi , Hasuike Yasunori , Fukuchi Takumi , Tsuchida Yasuaki
Published: December 2020

This paper reports the first case of the removal of an ingested fishbone from the uterus. A 77‐year‐old woman presented with a 3‐day history of lower abdominal pain. An abscess‐like lesion in the posterior wall of the uterus was revealed by transvaginal ultrasonography and pelvic magnetic resonance imaging. Moreover, a curvilinear calcium density in the anterior uterine wall was revealed by abdominal computed tomography. A recto‐sigmoidal perforation and uterine abscess were suspected. Thus, hysteroscopic drainage of the abscess was performed. Hysteroscopy revealed a fishbone partially embedded in the myometrium. Its removal resulted in full recovery. This study believed that adhesions between the uterus and rectosigmoid colon after partial gastrectomy for gastric cancer may have limited abdominal symptoms by limiting the leakage of intestinal fluids. Although rare, it should be considered that migration of a fishbone into the uterus could occur.
The effects of dietary poly‐β‐hydroxybutyrate on growth parameters, intestinal microflora, and histopathology of rainbow trout, Oncorhynchus mykiss, fingerlings
Authors: Şahin Tolga , Yılmaz Sevdan , Yazıcı İrfan Selçuk , Berber Selçuk
Published: December 2020

The present study aimed to evaluate the effects of poly‐β‐hydroxybutyrate (PHB)‐supplemented diets for rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) fingerlings. For this purpose, three experimental diets were prepared to contain 0, 2, and 5% PHB; and each diet was tested in a completely randomized design for 60 days in quadruple groups of 22 fish per tank. The results showed that the inclusion of PHB in the diets did not affect the growth parameters such as mean weight gain, specific growth rate, and feed conversion ratio among treatments. There was also no effect of the PHB on chemical composition, PCR‐DGGE profile of the intestinal bacterial communities, total bacterial count, lactic acid bacteria, psychrophilic bacteria as well as the intestine and the liver histopathology of fish. However, the supplementation of 2 and 5% PHB in the diet significantly reduced total coliform counts, while 5% PHB diet additionally decreased Enterobacteriaceae counts. Both inclusion ratios resulted in significantly higher intestinal villus length and width at the end of the experiment. Considering the positive effects of dietary PHB on intestinal bacterial flora and villus sizes of rainbow trout fingerlings, it can be used as an alternative microbial control agent.

Significance Statement

PHB is a biopolymer that has previously been reported to have positive effects on fish health, and no literature has been encountered investigating the effects of PHB on rainbow trout fry. The findings obtained in this study show that PHB has positive effects on the intestinal tissues of rainbow trout fry and provides an increase in the number of beneficial bacteria in the gut flora.
Ramadan fasting and liver diseases: A review with practice advices and recommendations
Authors: Emara Mohamed H. , Soliman Hanan H. , Elnadry Mohamed , Mohamed Said Ebada , Abd‐Elsalam Sherief , Elbatae Hassan E. , Zaher Tarik I. , Ezzeldin S. Bazeed Shamardan , Abdel‐Razik Ahmed , Youssef Mohamed Salem , Elfert Asem ,   the “Egyptian Ramadan Fasting, Liver Diseases Interest Group”
Published: December 2020

Ramadan fasting is obligatory for Muslim healthy adults. However, there are many exemptions from fasting; including patients, whose diseases will be aggravated by fasting. Muslim patients with different liver diseases are frequently seen in the clinics discussing their intent to fast this month with their treating physicians. To answer our patients’ inquiries about the expected benefits and/or risks of fasting and delivering them the best care, we carried out this review and we draw advices and recommendations based on the available evidence. A web‐based search, combining multiple keywords representing different liver diseases with Ramadan fasting had been carried out. To answer the research question: Do adult Muslim patients with different liver diseases who fast the month of Ramadan have had a deleterious effect on their health in comparison to those who did not fast? Relevant publications were retrieved. No randomized controlled trials were focusing on Ramadan fasting and liver diseases in the filtered databases, eg Cochrane library. Consequently, non‐filtered databases, eg PubMed, Google Scholar and Egyptian Knowledge Bank searched and full‐text high‐quality research articles were carefully analysed to draw recommendations. Other relevant publications with low quality of evidence like case studies and short communications were also reviewed to address practice advices. Although Ramadan fasting was found beneficial for patients with NAFLD, it was found deleterious to patients with Child B and C cirrhosis and patients with peptic ulcer. Patients with chronic hepatitis, Child A cirrhosis and those with non‐complicated liver transplant can fast with prefasting assessment and strict follow up.
Central‐Auckland rainfall, 1853–2020: Sites histories and implications for developing a long‐term rainfall record
Authors: Fowler Anthony M.
Published: December 2020

Previous work related to central‐Auckland site Albert Park showed that sparse site histories for inner‐city weather stations can be usefully supplemented by mining searchable online historical archives (Papers Past, DigitalNZ), at least as far back as 1909. Assessment of potential is extended here back to 1853, within the context of developing a long‐term rainfall record for Auckland. Although late 19th century sources are thinner and of poorer quality, much useful information could be gleaned about the locations and exposures of early sites. Hypothesised implications for the rainfall record suggest that all early site data need to be adjusted upwards.
Fatal Epstein‐Barr virus‐associated hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis with virus‐infected T cells after pediatric multivisceral transplantation: A proof‐of‐concept case report
Authors: Yamada Masaki , Sakamoto Seisuke , Sakamoto Kenichi , Uchida Hajime , Shimizu Seiichi , Osumi Tomoo , Kato Motohiro , Shoji Kensuke , Arai Katsuhiro , Miyazaki Osamu , Nakano Noriyuki , Yoshioka Takako , Fukuda Akinari , Kasahara Mureo , Imadome Ken‐Ichi
Published: December 2020

Background

EBV‐associated HLH driven by EBV‐infected CD8+ T cells is a rare complication after pediatric solid organ transplantation. The etiology and disease spectrum of post‐transplant EBV‐HLH are poorly understood, and making a precise diagnosis and providing optimal treatment remain a challenge.

Methods/Case description/Results

We report a 2‐year‐old multivisceral transplant recipient who developed fever and cytopenia with a persistent high EBV‐load state. Repeated tissue examinations and CT scans could not identify a localized mass, which is the key to the diagnosis of PTLD as per the WHO classification. Hence, EBV‐HLH was diagnosed by clinical manifestations as well as characterization of EBV‐infected cells, pathological examination on cell block of pleural effusion and clonality analysis. This EBV‐HLH did not respond to intensive chemotherapy, resulted in the recipient's death, acting similarly to hematological malignancy.

Conclusions

Characterization of EBV‐infected cells in peripheral blood should be considered when persistent high EBV loads develop with symptoms consistent with PTLD, but no evidence of localized mass, and the tissue diagnosis is unavailable after pediatric solid organ transplantation.