bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Au-coated Ag alloy bonding wires with enhanced oxidation resistance for electronic packaging applications
Authors: Xiao Yuchen , Tang Huiyi , Zhang Hehe , Yang Xiaoling , Sun Ling , Xie Yong , Wu Baoan , Luan Baifeng , Xie Weidong , Cai Xinnan
Published: September 2022

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to develop high-performance Au-coated Ag alloy wires (ACAA wires) and demonstrate the effect of Au coating layers on the bonding performance and oxidation resistance for stable and reliable electronic packaging applications.

Design/methodology/approach

ACAA wire with a diameter of approximately 25 µm and Au layer thickness of approximately 100 nm were prepared by the continuous casting, plating and wire drawing method. The bonding performance of the ACAA wires were studied through bonding on 3,535 chips. The oxidation resistance of ACAA wires and Ag alloy wires (AA wires) were comparatively studied by means of chemical oxidation tests, accelerated life tests and electrochemical tests systematically.

Findings

ACAA wires could form axi-symmetrical spherical free air balls with controllable diameter of 1.5∼2.5 times of the wire diameter after electric flame-off process. The ball shear strength of ACAA wire was higher than that of AA wires. Most importantly, because of the surface Au coating layer, the oxidation resistance of ACAA wires was much enhanced.

Research limitations/implications

ACAA wires with different lengths of heat affected zone were not developed in this study, which limited their application with different loop height requirements.

Practical implications

With higher bonding strength and oxidation resistance, ACAA wires would be a better choice than previous reported AA wire in chip packaging which require high stability and reliability.

Originality/value

This paper provides a kind of novel ACAA wire, which possess the merits of high bonding strength and reliability, and show great potential in electronic packaging applications.
On the methodological and epistemological power of epistemic (de)centering as a reflexive praxis of resistance toward disability justice
Authors: Boda Phillip Andrew
Published: September 2022

Purpose

Leveraging autoethnography and conceptual syntheses, the author stake the claim that supporting people to empower themselves in the naming and description of their lived realities beyond assumed incompleteness constitutes a resistant form of critical praxis the author name as epistemic (de)centering. Through these engagements of varying proximity with the other, meaning those Lives-Hopes-Dreams often outside researchers' personal and professional standpoints, the author aims to argue that critical, reflexive praxes where historically marginalized people, including those living/surviving/thriving with impairments-disabilities, can be afforded place, space, time and respect to visibilize their experiences.

Design/methodology/approach

In this paper, the author dreams of radical possibilities afforded by epistemic disobedience to value those Body-Mind-Spirits often elided among social justice work. Interrogating nuances among pieces in a recently published special issue named as “Disability Justice,” the author rearticulates a reality of possibility where the rhetoric that sustains invisibilizations of disabled people via racial-capitalist-ableist-coloniality is disrupted to explicitly position these identities as valuable to inform how to transform society in more just ways.

Findings

Analyses from this work further conversations on disabled subjectivities, post-oppositional logics of centers-margins, and resistant knowledge projects to illuminate how to approach the questions of who gets to decide when justice is achieved, and how abled Body-Mind-Spirits can meet their commitments to justice, especially among those that work in social justice circles.

Originality/value

Infusing across this work the voices of multiply marginalized, and disabled, folks provides a cognitive-systemic architecture where research moves from “what if” as abstraction to engage with “how to” center disability justice in education (DJE). In doing so, this research pushes our approaches to social justice praxis, in education and beyond, to think about our individual and collective proximities to self and other, and more specifically disabled Lives-Hopes-Dreams.
Challenges to using electronic health records to enhance patient safety, in a Small Island Developing State (SIDS) context
Authors: Selna Aishath , Othman Zulhabri , Tham Jacquline , Yoosuf Adam Khaleel
Published: September 2022

Purpose

This paper is based on a study done to investigate patient safety in two of the largest hospitals in the Maldives, and part of that study was on challenges faced by nurses in using electronic health records (EHRs) to enhance patient safety. Patient safety is a vital component of an established patient safety culture (PSC).

Design/methodology/approach

This study was conducted among nurses who also work as patient safety champions/link nurses from hospitals in Central Malé area, in the Maldives, by using focus group discussions. A purposive sampling technique was adopted, and five nurses from each hospital participated in the discussion.

Findings

Key findings included poor usability of EHRs; importance of training to use EHRs; and importance of information sharing.

Research limitations/implications

The implications for positive social change include establishing an EHR, which has the capacity to collaborate with the National Health Information Network while providing access to every patient in the Maldives.

Practical implications

EHR systems can help in collaboration among health-care professionals resulting in better patient outcomes which can contribute to establishing a PSC. Most of the patient documentation is done as paperwork in this clinical area; EHRs can contribute to minimizing paperwork and contributing quality time for better patient care. Establishing an EHR which has the capacity to collaborate with the national health information network while providing access to every patient in the Maldives.

Social implications

Establishing an EHR which has the capacity to collaborate with the national health information network while providing access to every patient in the Maldives.

Originality/value

Nurses are the bridge between patients and clinicians during patient care and therefore require as much information as possible to improve patient outcomes. While the EHRs in these two hospitals were electronic patient records (EPRs) developed by staff within the hospitals for their own use, the findings from such a bottom-up approach to develop and use EPRs can be relevant, to ensure patient safety targets of EHRs are met.
Sustainability claim, environmental misconduct and perceived hypocrisy in luxury branding
Authors: Cheah Isaac , Shimul Anwar Sadat , Teah Min
Published: September 2022

Purpose

This paper aims to examine consumers’ evaluation of and reaction to the coexistence of brand misconduct and sustainability claims through a series of studies.

Design/methodology/approach

The research questions are examined across three studies. Consumer’s scepticism of corporate social responsibility (CSR) is considered the driver of brand distance. Brand hypocrisy is postulated to mediate the relationship between scepticism to CSR and brand distance. Furthermore, brand trust and desire for exclusivity are tested as moderators of brand hypocrisy and brand distance.

Findings

The findings showed that environmental misconduct leads to perceived brand hypocrisy and brand distancing. When luxury brands take action to remedy their actions, the perceived brand hypocrisy and brand distancing decrease. In addition, brand trust and desire for exclusivity dilute the relationship between brand hypocrisy and brand distance.

Originality/value

The findings show that, standing in a contradictory position, brands can still reduce the consumers’ perceived brand distance by building a strong consumers’ trust toward the brand. At the same time, relating the luxury consumers’ yearning for the exclusive products and services, the findings show that the consumers with a strong desire for exclusivity feel a lower level of brand distance even if the brand gets involved in misconduct.
Determinants of effectiveness of lean healthcare performance in Malaysian public hospitals
Authors: Ong Kim Yoke , Zailani Suhaiza , Kanapathy Kanagi , Rahman Muhammad Khalilur , Mamun Abdullah Al , Bhuiyan Miraj Ahmed
Published: September 2022

Purpose

This study aims to explore the lean leadership factors influencing the effectiveness of lean healthcare performance at hospitals.

Design/methodology/approach

A total of 217 healthcare professionals’ responses were included for data analysis. The data were analyzed using the partial least square technique.

Findings

The findings revealed that improvement culture, gemba (hands-on approach), hoshin kanri (goal-oriented) and qualification are the crucial lean leadership factors that positively influence the effectiveness of lean healthcare performance at hospitals. The results indicated that the self-development of lean leaders has no significant impact on the effectiveness of lead healthcare performance.

Originality/value

The findings of this study could contribute to the healthcare institutions in Malaysia perceive the benefits of lean healthcare and show a positive intention of using lean leadership principles.
The influence of a possible contamination of the victim's clothing on the estimation of shooting distance in mutual shooting incidents
Authors: Azulay Osnat Israelsohn , Rosengarten Hila , Levi Aviad , Weiss Revital , Levy Ophir
Published: September 2022

One of the tools for estimating shooting distance is examination of smokeless powder particle distribution on the target area. Components of the powder that are utilized for this purpose are nitrite anions. The traditional method for detecting nitrite anions mainly involves applying the Griess Test. A known‐distance test firing is performed with shootings done at several distances from different targets. The color pattern corresponding to nitrite anions from the crime scene is then compared to the patterns obtained from known distances of the test firing. When a mutual shooting takes place at the crime scene, and a shooter also becomes a shootout victim, it is possible that when examining the shooter as a victim (i.e. target), additional nitrite‐containing particles, resulting from his/her shooting, will be present on the shooter‐victim clothing. This kind of addition may affect the estimation and practically give a shorter‐distance estimation comparing to the actual distance. In this paper, an experimental setup was designed in order to understand if nitrite‐containing particles were added to a victim as a consequence of him/her being also a shooter. All of the experiments were predominantly designed to try and minimize the effects of other influencing factors and variables in order to examine if the additions resulting from the firing action affect distance estimation. The experiments involved various types of pistols and distances. The results show that in such a scenario, there are marginal additions of nitrite signals on the victim's shirt. Although the forensic expert's final assessment was within the tolerance interval at all distances, caution should be exercised when attempting to estimate shooting distances in scenarios where the victim also shoots.
Male Grapholita molesta (Busck) adults responding to various component combinations of synthetic female sex pheromone
Authors: Guo Yongfu , Wang Yi , Chai Xiaohan , Xiang Huiming , Kong Weina , Ma Ruiyan
Published: September 2022

Grapholita molesta (Busck) is a cosmopolitan fruit pest. The sex pheromones released by females have four components, namely (Z)‐8‐dodecenyl acetate (Z8–12:Ac), E8–12:Ac, (Z)‐8‐dodecen‐1‐ol (Z8–12:OH), and dodecanol (12:OH). This multichemical attractive system has been reported to induce various male behavioral responses, from arousal to directional flight, and enhance trapping. However, the specific male behaviors induced by individual component or component blend is unclear. This study investigated the effects of different combinations of these four components using electroantennogram, wind tunnel assays, and field tests on aspects of male behavioral performance. Our results showed that the (Z8–12:Ac + E8–12:Ac)‐ containing pheromones were mainly responsible for long‐distance detection and close‐distance location in males, including antennal detection of the stimulus, flight initiation, directional flight, and trapping. The addition of E8–12:Ac to Z8–12:Ac plays an important role in pheromone searching behavior of males in close range. The ternary component, Z8–12:Ac + E8–12:Ac + Z8–12:OH was crucial for capturing male moths, and 12:OH significantly increased the male catch. The addition of Z8–12:OH and 12:OH to Z8–12:Ac + E8–12:Ac plays an important role in completing the whole response sequence in field attraction. This study revealed that Z8–12:Ac + E8–12:Ac acts as a attractant to males, whereas Z8–12:OH, and 12:OH are the synergists that enhance male attraction in the sex pheromone blend.
Preparation and characterization of octenyl succinic anhydride‐modified ginkgo seed starch with enhanced physicochemical and emulsifying properties
Authors: Chen Ying , Su Ya , Bai Rong , Li Jianlin , Zheng Tiesong
Published: September 2022

A quick preparation of octenylsuccinylated (OS)‐ginkgo seed starch was proposed by lipase‐coupling esterification within 30 min, and the physicochemical and emulsifying properties of OS‐ginkgo seed starch were evaluated. High‐performance liquid chromatography results revealed that ginkgolic acid in ginkgo seed starch was too low to be detected, which improved the biosafety and application range of OS‐ginkgo seed starch. The degree of substitution (DS) of OS‐ginkgo starch varied from 0.006 to 0.0169 depending on the lipase concentration increased from 0% to 1% (w/w, based on the volume of starch solution), and the reaction efficiency obtained the highest value of 68.5% at the lipase concentration of 1%. Fourier transform infrared spectra of OS‐ginkgo seed starch confirmed ester carbonyl splicing in the starch molecular with the characteristic peaks at 1722 and 1567 cm−1. Scanning electron microscopy observations revealed that the esterification occurred mainly in the amorphous regions with slight morphological modification. X‐ray diffractions suggested that no crystal change occurred on the starch granule. The thermal analysis revealed that OS‐ginkgo seed starch showed a lower temperature and endothermic enthalpy for gelatinization, and presented enhanced and DS‐dependent emulsifying properties and in vitro antidigestion properties.

Practical Application

Results indicated that OS‐ginkgo seed starch prepared by lipase‐coupling esterification would be an alternative emulsion stabilizer for encapsulation and delivery of hydrophobic components. This study would provide an alternative method for the efficient and economical production of OS‐ginkgo seed starch, thereby broadening its application in commercial exploitation.
Effect of whey protein isolate‐based edible films containing amino acids on the PhIP level and physicochemical properties of pan‐fried chicken breasts
Authors: Farshi Parastou , Amamcharla Jayendra , Smith J. Scott
Published: September 2022

This study was conducted to investigate the inhibitory effects of edible films containing amino acids (AAs) on the formation of 2‐amino‐1‐methyl‐6‐phenylimidazo [4,5‐b] pyridine (PhIP) in chicken breasts and to evaluate the physicochemical properties of the chicken. Heated whey protein isolate (HWPI) solution (100 g) was made by heating 5 g whey protein isolate (WPI) solution at 90°C for 30 min in a water bath and subsequently mixed with 2.5 g glycerol (GLY), and tryptophan (Trp) or lysine (Lys) at 0.25%, 0.5%, and 0.75% concentrations. Unheated whey protein isolate (UHWPI)‐based casting solution was prepared with the same method but without heating of WPI solution. Chicken breasts were cut at the same weights and were covered with the prepared edible films and fried at 195°C for 7.5 min. For edible films, total soluble matter (TSM%), color (calorimeter), radical scavenging activity (DPPH), and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) were conducted. For chicken breasts, PhIP level, color before and after frying (calorimeter), cooking loss percentage (weigh loss before after frying), and tenderness (texture analyzer) were evaluated.

The average PhIP level decreased from 78.47 ppb to 6.69–8.31 ppb for chicken covered with Lys‐containing HWPI edible films, and to 25.82–46.80 ppb for chicken covered with Trp‐containing ones. For chicken covered with UHWPI edible films, the PhIP decreased 28.4–56.04 ppb for Trp‐containing ones and 19.67–40.32 ppb for Lys‐containing ones. Moreover, chicken breasts covered with HWPI edible films had lower cooking loss and improved tenderness compared to the chicken breasts with no edible film. This study provides a new approach to decrease the PhIP levels in fried chicken breast.
Investigation of ochratoxin A in commercial cheeses and pork meat products by liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry
Authors: Delfino Daniela , Lucchetti Dario , Mauti Tabita , Mancuso Marta , Di Giustino Paolo , Triolone Daniela , Vaccari Stefano , Bonanni Rossana Claudia , Neri Bruno , Russo Katia
Published: September 2022

Ochratoxin A (OTA) is a mycotoxin produced by several species of Aspergillus and Penicillium and commonly detected in a wide range of foodstuffs. The purpose of this work was to monitor the presence of OTA in cheeses and pork meat products. A simple and accurate “dilute and shoot” method with no need of immunoaffinity column and isotopic labeled internal standard, by liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry, was validated in accordance with the criteria set out in Commission Regulation (EC) No. 401/2006. The method showed good linearity in solvent and in matrix (R2 ≥ 0.995), limit of detection was 0.2 µg/kg for cheese and 0.3 µg/kg for pork meat products, limit of quantification was fixed at 1 µg/kg, and recovery was estimated at two different concentration levels (1 and 5 µg/kg) and ranged from 75% to 101%. The interday and intraday laboratory precisions were lower than 7%. The matrix effect, the recovery of the extraction process, and the overall process efficiency were evaluated. No significant ME was observed in the two matrices considered. This method was applied to the analysis of 75 samples, coming from official controls implemented by the Lazio Region (Central Italy). In one sample of dry‐cured ham, the concentration found (69.3 µg/kg) was well above the guidance value recommended by the Italian Ministry of Health (1 µg/kg). These data together with the detection of OTA in three grated cheeses suggest the importance of monitoring these products. Considering the high dietary intake of these matrices, especially among vulnerable populations, further research should be devoted to estimate exposure and risk assessment for OTA.
A dedicated antenatal clinic for pregnant women with morbid and super‐obesity: Patient characteristics, outcomes, perceptions and lessons learnt from establishing the DIAMOND clinic
Authors: Tyson Kate , Teale Glyn , Vasilevski Vidanka , Cassells Kahli , Sweet Linda
Published: September 2022

Background

The DIAMOND antenatal clinic was established to provide multidisciplinary continuity of care to pregnant women living with morbid (body mass index (BMI) ≥40 kg/m2) or super‐obesity (BMI ≥50 kg/m2).

Aim

The aim was to describe clinic processes, demographics, clinical outcomes and women's perceptions of the clinic.

Methods

Women who received antenatal care in the clinic between 2016 and 2019 (n = 257) had routine data collected for retrospective analysis. A patient satisfaction survey was conducted for women who received care in 2019 (n = 89).

Results

The median BMI was 49 kg/m2 (max = 81 kg/m2). The mean age was 32 years. The largest proportion of women (27.6%) resided in the most disadvantaged suburbs of the region. Primipara comprised 29.6%, and 4.7% of women identified as Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander. Diabetes was present in 47.5%, and 9.3% developed pre‐eclampsia. Half (49.4%) had their labour induced (49.8% required cervical ripening), and 37% had an elective caesarean section. Almost a quarter (24.1%) of women underwent emergency caesarean section. One in six women had a measured blood loss of more than 1000 mL. The unadjusted stillbirth rate was 0.8%. Blood transfusions were required by 3.9%, and 1.9% of women required intensive care admission. Survey responses showed women valued the clinic for the enhanced surveillance, continuity, care coordination and respectful care. Improvements to waiting times were recommended.

Conclusions

Establishing a dedicated clinic for women living with high BMI provides a well‐liked environment for a high‐risk cohort of women. Our review identified opportunities for improvement in clinic processes. We plan to assess overall impact on perinatal outcomes.
Relational flexibility
Authors: SRIVASTAVA SANJAY
Published: September 2022

Since the 1990s, training programs for service‐sector jobs have proliferated in India. Frequently referred to as “skills training,” these programs aim to overcome the perceived cultural and professional “deficiencies” of youth from the poorest sections of society. They focus on “soft skills” and “personality development,” teaching body etiquette, time discipline, and emotional control; introducing students to “global” cuisine and commodities; and developing English‐language skills. How do the students in these programs make sense of attempts to train them in new dispositions? An ethnography of Indian skills training finds that capitalism's most marginal subjects creatively engage with its possibilities, in ways unaccounted for in arguments about the making of “neoliberal subjectivity.” For contexts like this—in which neoliberal processes may not necessarily produce neoliberal subjects—a more productive account is found in anthropological writings on split and partitioned selves as deliberate acts of self‐making. Among Indian skills trainees, this may be conceptualized as “relational flexibility.” [skilling,soft skills,personality development,youth,selfhood,neoliberalism,work,India]
Efficacy and safety of brolucizumab in age‐related macular degeneration: A systematic review of real‐world studies
Authors: Baumal Caroline R. , Sørensen Torben Lykke , Karcher Helene , Freitas Rita L. , Becher Anja , Balez Sébastien , Clemens Andreas , Singer Michael , Kodjikian Laurent
Published: September 2022

Intravitreally injected anti‐vascular endothelial growth factor (anti‐VEGF) agents are first‐line treatment for neovascular age‐related macular degeneration (nAMD). Phase 3 trials demonstrated non‐inferiority of anti‐VEGF therapy with brolucizumab compared with aflibercept in best corrected visual acuity (BCVA) gains, with superior anatomical outcomes after brolucizumab. The purpose of the review was to summarize real‐world efficacy and safety data on brolucizumab in patients with nAMD. The review protocol was registered with PROSPERO (ID: CRD42021290530). We conducted systematic searches in Embase, Medline and key ophthalmology congress websites (19 October 2021). Original reports of efficacy and/or safety in patients receiving brolucizumab to treat nAMD in clinical practice were eligible. The descriptive summary includes reports describing at least 10 brolucizumab‐treated eyes. In total, 2907 brolucizumab‐treated eyes from 26 studies were included. Outcomes were available for treatment‐naive eyes (six studies), eyes switched to brolucizumab from other anti‐VEGFs (16 studies), and/or treatment‐naive and switch eyes combined (eight studies). Follow‐up time points ranged from 4 weeks to 1 year post‐brolucizumab initiation. For BCVA, significant improvements compared with brolucizumab initiation were reported in four of six studies in treatment‐naive eyes (mean BCVA improvement, range: +3.7 to +11.9 Early Treatment Diabetic Retinopathy Study [ETDRS] letters) and in three of 12 studies in switch eyes (range: +9.0 to +15 ETDRS letters) (all p < 0.05); remaining studies reported no significant post‐brolucizumab BCVA changes. For central subfield thickness (CST), improvements post‐brolucizumab initiation were reported in all six studies in treatment‐naive eyes (mean CST improvement, range: −113.4 to −150.1 μm) and in eight of 11 studies in switch eyes (range: −26 to −185.7 μm) (all p < 0.05). The 14 studies reporting on intraretinal, subretinal and/or total fluid observed improvements post‐brolucizumab initiation. The four studies comparing treatment intervals observed extension of the interval between injections after switching to brolucizumab from other anti‐VEGFs. Incidence of intraocular inflammation ranged from 0% to 19%. In conclusion, real‐world efficacy and safety data concur with brolucizumab pivotal trials. Additionally, reduction of disease activity in anti‐VEGF switch eyes was demonstrated by fluid reduction and/or visual acuity gain, along with prolongation of the interval between injections.
Vascular thrombotic events in the era of modern myeloma therapy
Authors: Mai Elias Karl
Published: September 2022

The treatment landscape in multiple myeloma (MM) has changed drastically in the past two decades with new treatment paradigms evolving. In this issue Sborov et al. provide the first study investigating the frequency, severity, onset of vascular thrombotic events (VTEs) and use of prophylactic therapies in a trial applying a contemporary myeloma treatment protocol and highlight that prevention of VTEs needs to be revisited in the era of modern myeloma treatment.

Commentary on: Sborov et al. Daratumumab plus lenalidomide, bortezomib and dexamethasone in newly diagnosed multiple myeloma: Analysis of vascular thrombotic events in the GRIFFIN study. Br J Haematol. 2022;199:355–365.
Allogeneic haematopoietic cell transplant in patients with relapsed/refractory anaplastic large cell lymphoma
Authors: Furqan Fateeha , Ahn Kwang W. , Chen Yue , Kaur Manmeet , Abutalib Syed A. , Ahmed Nausheen , Ahmed Sairah , Kharfan‐Dabaja Mohamed A. , Friedberg Johnathan , Gregory Tara , Hill LaQuisa , Sterling Cole , Barta Stephan K. , Shadman Mazyar , Perales Miguel‐Angel , Zain Jasmine , Herrera Alex F. , Sauter Craig , Hamadani Mehdi
Published: September 2022

The prognosis of relapsed/refractory (R/R) anaplastic large cell lymphoma (ALCL) is poor. Large studies evaluating outcomes of allogeneic haematopoietic cell transplantation (allo‐HCT) in systemic R/R ALCL are not available. Using the Center for International Blood and Marrow Transplant Research (CIBMTR) database, we evaluated outcomes of 182 adults (aged ≥18 years) with R/R ALCL undergoing allo‐HCT between 2008 and 2019. Non‐relapse mortality (NRM), disease relapse/progression (REL), progression‐free survival (PFS), and overall survival (OS) were modelled using Cox proportional hazards models. The median (range) follow‐up of survivors was 62 (3–148) months. The 1‐year NRM was 18%. The 5‐year REL, PFS and OS were 32%, 41% and 56% respectively. On multivariable regression analysis African American race (hazard ratio [HR] 2.7, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.6–4.8; p < 0.001) and refractory disease at allo‐HCT (HR 3.2, 95% CI 1.6–6.2; p < 0.001) were predictive of inferior OS. Similarly, African‐American race (HR 2.1, 95% CI 1.3–3.4; p = 0.003), other minority race (HR 2.5, 95% CI 1.2–5.3; p = 0.02) and refractory disease (HR 2.2, 95% CI 1.2–4.3; p = 0.01) were predictive of inferior PFS. These data, demonstrate that allo‐HCT can result in durable disease control in a sizable proportion of patients with R/R ALCL. Refractory disease and racial minority status predicted inferior allo‐HCT outcomes. Whether the inferior outcomes of racial minorities with R/R ALCL after allo‐HCT are driven by differences in disease biology or disparities in post allo‐HCT care, or both, requires further investigation.
Transfer effects from language processing to visual attention dynamics: The impact of orthographic transparency
Authors: Iniesta Antonio , Bajo María Teresa , Rivera Marta , Paolieri Daniela
Published: September 2022

The consistency between letters and sounds varies across languages. These differences have been proposed to be associated with different reading mechanisms (lexical vs. phonological), processing grain sizes (coarse vs. fine) and attentional windows (whole words vs. individual letters). This study aimed to extend this idea to writing to dictation. For that purpose, we evaluated whether the use of different types of processing has a differential impact on local windowing attention: phonological (local) processing in a transparent language (Spanish) and lexical (global) processing of an opaque language (English). Spanish and English monolinguals (Experiment 1) and Spanish–English bilinguals (Experiment 2) performed a writing to dictation task followed by a global–local task. The first key performance showed a critical dissociation between languages: the response times (RTs) from the Spanish writing to dictation task was modulated by word length, whereas the RTs from the English writing to dictation task was modulated by word frequency and age of acquisition, as evidence that language transparency biases processing towards phonological or lexical strategies. In addition, after a Spanish task, participants more efficiently processed local information, which resulted in both the benefit of global congruent information and the reduced cost of incongruent global information. Additionally, the results showed that bilinguals adapt their attentional processing depending on the orthographic transparency.
Preschool children's dispositions of collaboration: A Chinese study
Authors: Sun Zhonghua , Zhang Nini , Guo Karen
Published: September 2022

There is converging evidence that young children's development of peer collaboration is crucial for their later success in life. However, little attention has been paid to how children develop collaboration as a lifelong capability. Drawing on the notion of learning disposition, this study explored Chinese children's dispositions of collaboration. Our aim was to identify the characteristics of these dispositions and considered how they might suggest a possible direction of growth. The research was conducted in a preschool classroom. Findings reveal an interwoven relation between children's collaboration and their learning decisions, where ideas of interest, fun, friend, help and responsibility were embedded.
Neutrophil‐to‐lymphocyte and platelet‐to‐lymphocyte ratio and disease activity in rheumatoid arthritis: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Zinellu Angelo , Mangoni Arduino A.
Published: September 2022

Background

Inflammatory indexes derived from routine haematological parameters, particularly the neutrophil‐to‐lymphocyte ratio (NLR) and the platelet‐to‐lymphocyte ratio (PLR), have been shown to discriminate between patients with and without rheumatoid arthritis (RA). However, their capacity to discriminate between RA patients with and without active disease has not been systematically appraised.

Methods

We searched PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus and Google Scholar, from inception to June 2022, for studies comparing NLR and/or PLR values between RA patients with and without active disease. Risk of bias and certainty of evidence were assessed using the Joanna Briggs Institute Critical Appraisal Checklist and GRADE, respectively.

Results

In 18 studies (2122 RA patients with active disease, mean age 50 years, 20% males; 1071 RA patients with nonactive disease, mean age 50 years, 25% males), active disease was associated with significantly higher NLR (standard mean difference, SMD = 0.37, 95% CI 0.19 to 0.55, p < .001; low certainty of evidence) and PLR values (SMD = 0.48, 95% CI 0.32 to 0.64, p < .001; low certainty of evidence). In sensitivity analysis, the SMD values were not substantially influenced by sequentially removing individual studies. There was no publication bias. In meta‐regression, the effect size was not associated with other study and patient characteristics, including sex, Disease Activity Score‐28, C‐reactive protein and erythrocyte sedimentation rate.

Conclusions

NLR and PLR can significantly discriminate between RA patients with and without active disease. Further studies are required to determine their diagnostic performance, singly or in combination with other parameters, in routine practice.
The risk for chronic kidney disease in metabolically healthy obese patients: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Kanbay Mehmet , Copur Sidar , Siriopol Dimitrie , Yildiz Abdullah B. , Berkkan Metehan , Tuttle Kathherine R. , Zoccali Carmine
Published: September 2022

Background

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is associated with obesity and metabolic syndrome. Nevertheless, the association of CKD with phenotype referred as metabolically healthy obese or overweight is unclear. In this this systematic review and meta‐analysis, we investigate the relationships between obesity and CKD independent of metabolic syndrome by appraising published evidence in studies focusing on metabolically healthy obese people.

Materials and Methods

We performed a literature search through three databases Embase (Elsevier), the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (Wiley) and PubMed/Medline Web of Science up to March 2022 with the following terms: “chronic kidney disease”, “kidney function”, “obesity”, “metabolic syndrome”, “metabolically healthy obesity”, “metabolically healthy overweight”. Metabolically unhealthy was defined an individual having at least 3 of the following: abdominal obesity, high blood pressure, hypertriglyceridemia, low HDL cholesterol and hyperglycaemia. We used Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta‐Analyses (PRISMA) for reporting. Prospective, retrospective, randomized and nonrandomized studies fitting the search criteria were included in our results.

Results

Our final analysis included 16 studies with a total number of 4.965.285 participants. There is considerable heterogeneity in terms of study design, participant characteristics and number of participants across individual studies. In comparison to healthy normal weight patients, the risk was progressively higher in overweight (RR 1.29, 95% CI 1.27 to 1.32, p < 0.001) and obese patients (RR 1.47, 95% CI 1.31 to 1.65, p < 0.001).

Conclusion

Metabolically healthy overweight and obese individuals have higher risk of CKD compared to individuals without weight excess.
Activation of the Mas receptors by AVE0991 and MrgD receptor using alamandine to limit the deleterious effects of Ang II‐induced hypertension
Authors: Tanrıverdi Lokman Hekim , Özhan Onural , Ulu Ahmet , Yıldız Azibe , Ateş Burhan , Vardı Nigar , Acet Hacı Ahmet , Parlakpinar Hakan
Published: September 2022

The MrgD receptor agonist, alamandine (ALA) and Mas receptor agonist, AVE0991 have recently been identified as protective components of the renin‐angiotensin system. We evaluated the effects of ALA and AVE0991 on cardiovascular function and remodeling in angiotensin (Ang) II‐induced hypertension in rats. Sprague Dawley rats were subject to 4‐week subcutaneous infusions of Ang II (80 ng/kg/min) or saline after which they were treated with ALA (50 μg/kg), AVE0991 (576 μg/kg), or ALA+AVE0991 during the last 2 weeks. Systolic blood pressure (SBP) and heart rate (HR) values were recorded with tail‐cuff plethysmography at 1, 15, and 29 days post‐treatment. After euthanization, the heart and thoracic aorta were removed for further analysis and vascular responses. SBP significantly increased in the Ang II group when compared to the control group. Furthermore, Ang II also caused an increase in cardiac and aortic cyclophilin‐A (CYP‐A), monocyte chemoattractant protein‐1 (MCP‐1), and cardiomyocyte degeneration but produced a decrease in vascular relaxation. HR, matrix metalloproteinase‐2 and ‐9, NADPH oxidase‐4, and lysyl oxidase levels were comparable among groups. ALA, AVE0991, and the drug combination produced antihypertensive effects and alleviated vascular responses. The inflammatory and oxidative stress related to cardiac MCP‐1 and CYP‐A levels decreased in the Ang II+ALA+AVE0991 group. Vascular but not cardiac angiotensin‐converting enzyme‐2 levels decreased with Ang II administration but were similar to the Ang II+ALA+AVE0991 group. Our experimental data showed the combination of ALA and AVE0991 was found beneficial in Ang II‐induced hypertension in rats by reducing SBP, oxidative stress, inflammation, and improving vascular responses.
Microstructure characteristics and their effects on fatigue behaviors of the bond zone between Al‐12Si/ABOw composites and Al‐12Si alloys
Authors: Tong Qipei , Zhang Weizheng , Cao Zicong , Jin Shuang , Guo Zhenyao
Published: September 2022

In order to research the fatigue properties of the bond zone between aluminum borate whiskers (ABOw)‐reinforced composites and matrix Al‐12Si alloys, specially designed specimens consisted of Al‐12Si/ABOw composites and Al‐12Si alloys (named C/A specimen for short) were used in fatigue tests at different temperatures. The microstructure evolution of the bond zone of C/A specimen was studied through electronic microscope analysis. The results showed that the aluminum borate whiskers could cause segregation of alloying elements in the Al matrix and formation of numerous microscopic pores. Moreover, whiskers that were perpendicular to the load tended to cause interface between whiskers and Al matrix or Si particles cracking and thus lead to deterioration of fatigue performance. With the change of temperature from 25°C to 350°C, the toughness of Al matrix increased and the strength decreased, which also made the most serious stress concentration site of C/A specimen varied at different temperatures.
Using the atmospheric CO2 growth rate to constrain the CO2 flux from land use and land cover change since 1900
Authors: Dohner Julia L. , Birner Benjamin , Schwartzman Armin , Pongratz Julia , Keeling Ralph F.
Published: September 2022

We explore the ability of the atmospheric CO2 record since 1900 to constrain the source of CO2 from land use and land cover change (hereafter “land use”), taking account of uncertainties in other terms in the global carbon budget. We find that the atmospheric constraint favors land use CO2 flux estimates with lower decadal variability and can identify potentially erroneous features, such as emission peaks around 1960 and after 2000, in some published estimates. Furthermore, we resolve an offset in the global carbon budget that is most plausibly attributed to the land use flux. This correction shifts the mean land use flux since 1900 across 20 published estimates down by 0.35 PgC year−1 to 1.04 ± 0.57 PgC year−1, which is within the range but at the low end of these estimates. We show that the atmospheric CO2 record can provide insights into the time history of the land use flux that may reduce uncertainty in this term and improve current understanding and projections of the global carbon cycle.
A follow‐up study to explore factors associated with rapid kidney function decline and new‐onset kidney disease among Chinese elderly population
Authors: Xiong Juan , Zheng Xujuan , Luo Jingang , Luo Xiaohua , Zhang Yiqin , Xu Liping , Wang Yuxin
Published: September 2022

Aim

To explore potential factors associated with rapid kidney function decline and new‐onset kidney disease among a Chinese elderly population, and to examine the relationships between baseline serum uric acid (SUA), longitudinal change in SUA and rapid estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) decline over 5 years for this Chinese elderly population.

Methods

A 5‐year follow‐up study was conducted from 2016 to 2020 in Xiamen City, China; and 2436 elderly people with normal kidney function at baseline was included. The multivariable logistic regressions were used to explore risk factors for rapid eGFR decline and new‐onset kidney disease.

Results

The median age of subjects was 65 years, and 38.5% were men. These elderly people experienced a median 5‐year decrease in eGFR of 14.50 mL/min/1.73 m2, and 11.2% of them had developed new‐onset kidney disease after 5‐year follow‐up. Participants with elevated SUA change from the normal group to the hyperuricemia group witnessed the highest decrease of eGFR after a 5‐year follow‐up than other groups. Multivariate analysis found advanced age, female, elevated baseline SUA, elevated SUA change, hypertension and triglyceride–glucose index were risk factors for rapid eGFR decline and new‐onset kidney disease.

Conclusion

The Chinese elderly population was more likely to encounter rapid renal function decline and new‐onset kidney disease. A regular test for kidney disease was strongly recommended for these elderly people who were female, with advanced age, with elevated baseline SUA and elevated SUA change; and had high levels of insulin resistance, and blood pressure. The derived findings can offer significant evidence for targeted prevention for the Chinese elderly population. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2022; 22: 968–975.
Increasing Italian ryegrass (Lolium multiflorum Lam.) regrowth via inoculation with an ammonia‐oxidizing bacterial strain
Authors: Wu Di , Ma Ke , Wang Xiao‐Ling , Qi Lin , Liu Yu‐Hua , Song Peng , Liu Wei , Zhang Ming‐Ming , Zhao Wei , Song Cheng‐Wei
Published: September 2022

This study aimed to investigate the effect of a soil ammonia‐oxidizing bacterial (AOB) strain on Italian ryegrass (Lolium multiflorum Lam.) regrowth. Potted Italian ryegrass was used as test material. We isolated and screened an AOB strain from the soil for use in inoculation of other soils to increase nitrification. The sequence of the two isolated and screened AOB strains (S2_8_1 and S2_7_25) were 100% similar to that of Ensifer sesbaniae and Acinetobacter pittii. The nitrification inhibitor 3,4‐dimethylpyrazole phosphate (DMPP) was also added to the soil to inhibit nitrification. The experimental design involving the inoculation of the soils with the AOB strain included seven treatments: (1) regrowth without any additives, (2) regrowth with blank enrichment medium added to the soil, (3) regrowth with S2_8_1 strain inoculation, (4) regrowth with S2_7_25 strain inoculation, (5) regrowth with DMPP added to the soil, (6) regrowth with DMPP added to the soil and with S2_8_1 strain inoculation, and (7) regrowth with DMPP added to the soil and with S2_7_25 strain inoculation. Compared with regrowth treatment without any additives, the regrowth treatment with S2_8_1 and S2_7_25 inoculations significantly increased leaf biomass by 23.5–48.6%, the leaf net photosynthetic rate by 27.9–48.5%, the rhizosphere soil nitrification rate by 43.0–144.2%, leaf cytokinin concentrations by 23.7–24.9%, and xylem sap cytokinin concentrations by 32.5–43.2%. The increase of nitrate nitrogen content in rhizosphere soil induced by S2_8_1 and S2_7_25 promoted the transfers of cytokinin from roots to leaves, resulting in the increase of cytokinin concentration in leaves. This increase in leaf cytokinin concentrations improved Italian ryegrass regrowth. However, the S2_8_1 and S2_7_25‐induced increases in the nonrhizosphere soil nitrification rate were not closely related to Italian ryegrass regrowth. The tested AOB strains have considerable potential to increase Italian ryegrass regrowth.
New Capabilities in MT3D‐USGS for Simulating Unsaturated‐Zone Heat Transport
Authors: Morway Eric D. , Feinstein Daniel T. , Hunt Randall J. , Healy Richard W.
Published: September 2022

Changes in climate and land use will alter groundwater heat transport dynamics in the future. These changes will in turn affect watershed processes (e.g., nutrient cycling) as well as watershed characteristics (e.g., distribution and persistence of cold‐water habitat). Thus, groundwater flow and heat transport models at watershed scales that can characterize and quantify thermal impacts of surface temperature change on groundwater system temperatures may support forecasting changes to groundwater‐linked ecosystems in riparian zones, streams, and lakes. Including unsaturated zone processes has previously been shown to be important for properly determining the timing and magnitude of groundwater recharge (Hunt et al. 2008). Similarly, heat transport dynamics in the saturated‐zone, as well as connected surface‐water systems, can be appreciably influenced by unsaturated‐zone processes; in this way the unsaturated zone forms an inextricable link between the land surface where change occurs and the groundwater system that transmits that change. This paper presents new capabilities for the existing MT3D‐USGS transport simulator by adding functionality for simulating heat transport through the unsaturated zone. New simulation capabilities are verified through comparison of simulation results with those of the variably saturated heat transport simulator VS2DH under steady and transient conditions for both water and heat flow. The new capabilities are assessed using a number of conceptualizations and include evaluations of convective and conductive heat flow. These additional capabilities increase the utility for applied watershed‐scale simulations, which in turn may facilitate more realistic characterizations of temperature change on thermally sensitive ecosystems, such as stream habitat.
Using Geospatial Techniques and Analytic Hierarchy Process to Map Groundwater Potential Zones
Authors: Muavhi Nndanduleni , Mutoti Mulalo Isaih
Published: September 2022

This study is conducted in Luvuvhu River Catchment (LRC) of South Africa, which has numerous major agricultural farms that are located in the upper catchment, especially in Levubu Valley. The significant irrigation developments in upper catchment have resulted in a decrease in the yield of surface water resources to such an extent that these resources struggle to meet domestic and industrial demand. The aim of this study is to delineate groundwater potential zones (GWPZ) as a way of establishing alternative water resources to relieve the overly stressed surface water resources. Various datasets are processed to extract groundwater controlling factors. Map layers of controlling factors are assigned weights according to their relative importance to groundwater occurrence using analytic hierarchy process and then integrated based on weighted sum analysis to generate GWPZ map. Rainfall infiltration breakthrough (RIB) and area under curve (AUC) are used to validate the GWPZ map. GWPZ map shows that lower catchment has very high groundwater potential covering about 409 km2. Nonetheless, about 50% of LRC spatially falls within high groundwater potential zone. Groundwater recharge, based on RIB for three boreholes, that is, A9N0007, A9N0008, and A9N0018 around Levubu Valley is estimated at 8.3, 15.4, and 16.2%, respectively. Boreholes A9N0018 and A9N0018 correspond to moderate to high groundwater potential zone, whereas A9N007 coincides with low to moderate zone. Considering the groundwater recharge estimates and associated potential zones, RIB results correspond well with GWPZ map. Also, an AUC, based on 26 boreholes, of 70.9% is achieved; thus, indicating a reliable model.