bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Assessing inorganic arsenic in rice and its health risk to consumers in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
Authors: Nguyen Ha Phan Ai , Cu Yen Hoang , Watchalayann Pensri , Soonthornchaikul Nantika
Published: September 2020

Purpose

The consumption of rice that contains high levels of inorganic arsenic may cause human health risk. This study aims to determine As species concentrations, particularly iAs, in raw rice in Ho Chi Minh (HCM) City and its health risks.

Design/methodology/approach

A total of 60 polished raw composite samples of rice were purchased from traditional markets and supermarkets in HCM City. All samples were analyzed by HPLC-ICPMS for As species determination.

Findings

Mean concentrations of inorganic arsenic in all samples, which were purchased from supermarket and traditional market, were 88.8 µg/kg and 80.6 µg/kg, respectively. Overall, inorganic arsenic level was 84.7 µg/kg and contributed the highest proportion of arsenic species in rice with 67.7%. The proportion profiles for arsenic species were: As (III) (60 %); dimethylarsinic acid (32.2 %); As (V) (7.7 %) and methylarsonic acid (0.1 %). Inorganic arsenic level in raw rice was below the recommendation of World Health Organization. Using the benchmark dose recommended by the Joint FAO/WHO Expert Committee on Food Additives (JECFA), all exposure doses were lower than BMDL05. However, as the doses ranged from 3.0 to 8.6 of Margin of Exposure (MOE), the health risk of iAs from rice consumption remains public health concern.

Originality/value

The study results report on the surveillance data of the presence of inorganic arsenic in raw rice products, which are available in the supermarkets and traditional markets, and its health risk to consumers in a metropolitan city in Vietnam.
Organizational knowledgeable responses to institutional pressures – a review, synthesis and extension
Authors: Moser Roger , Winkler Jens , Narayanamurthy Gopalakrishnan , Pereira Vijay
Published: September 2020

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to critically review and explore how organizations knowledgeably respond to unfavorable institutional environments that exert institutional pressures and thereby limit their decision-making and eventually their actual behavior.

Design/methodology/approach

Based on a thorough structuration and analysis of the literature in management and related fields, the authors present a comprehensive synthesis of organizational knowledgeable responses to institutional pressures.

Findings

Based on the review, the authors categorize organizational knowledgeable responses into three major types – passively responding to avoid non-conformity, reactively mitigating institutional pressures and proactively developing institutional environments toward less interfering setups.

Research limitations/implications

The authors discuss the enabling conditions for the categorized organizational knowledgeable responses as well as limitations to their application. They identify research gaps and formulate research questions to offer promising avenues for future work. The authors expect this detailed synthesis to lay the framework for investigating how the knowledge-based view of the organization influences its knowledgeable response to institutional pressure.

Practical implications

The authors elaborate on distinct passive, reactive and proactive strategies, which firms can apply to cope with institutional pressures. The contribution of this study will be of relevance to practitioners managing organizations in the face of unfavorable institutional setups, as well as to policymakers engaged in the development of institutions and interacting with affected organizations.

Originality/value

This study provides a valuable overview on developments in institutional theory, particularly on contributions to the “nascent literature” that examines heterogeneous organizational knowledgeable responses to institutional pressures.
Corporate risk: CEO overconfidence and incentive compensation
Authors: Aabo Tom , Hvistendahl Nicholai Theodor , Kring Jacob
Published: September 2020

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to investigate the association between corporate risk and the interaction between CEO incentive compensation and CEO overconfidence.

Design/methodology/approach

This empirical study performs random and fixed effect (FE) regression analysis. It uses option-implied measures of CEO overconfidence.

Findings

The authors contribute to the existing literature by showing (1) that the positive association between high CEO incentive compensation and corporate risk only exists in the sphere of overconfident CEOs and (2) that the positive association between overconfident CEOs and corporate risk only exists in the sphere of high CEO incentive compensation. The authors show that the combination of high CEO incentive compensation and CEO overconfidence is associated with an increase in corporate risk of approximately 6% while the individual effects are for all practical reasons negligible. The results imply that only the combination of high CEO incentive compensation and CEO overconfidence is associated with a significantly elevated level of corporate risk.

Research limitations/implications

The findings are based on S&P 1500 non-financial firms in the period 2007–2016.

Practical implications

The findings have important implications in terms of CEO selection and compensation.

Originality/value

This study provides empirical evidence on the importance of the dual presence of high CEO incentive compensation and CEO overconfidence for corporate risk. The previous literature has primarily investigated these phenomena in isolation.
Champions in the time of COVID-19: tracing paths to recovery in Ibero-America
Authors: Wagstaff M. Fernanda , Salvaj Erica , Villanueva Sarah
Published: September 2020

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to analyze the case of Ximena Aguilera, a prominent Chilean epidemiologist, as an exemplar of a champion in times of COVID-19 in Ibero-America. We also refine our understanding of the nature of a champion facing wicked problems.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors use qualitative case analysis to examine Aguilera’s actions in response to COVID-19 and compare her actions with the characteristics of an emerging theory of champions facing wicked problems.

Findings

This study builds iteratively upon prior analysis of gender equality champions and finds that the depth, scope and leverage of embracement of champions in times of COVID-19 are parallel to those of gender equality champions. The authors also discuss the findings from the perspective of wicked problems.

Research limitations/implications

Future qualitative and quantitative work is needed to examine the boundaries of the theory of champions facing wicked problems across a wider range of problem domains and in a wider population of champions.

Practical implications

Wicked problems can occur in multi-level organizational structures, and understanding the characteristics of individuals best-suited to contribute to the definition and solution of these problems is relevant to organizational selection, development, policy and practices.

Social implications

Many of the society’s greatest challenges are defined as wicked problems, so understanding the champions of wicked problems is critical for public policy and societal advancement efforts. The nature of wicked problems is considered, and the implications of champions of wicked problems for society are discussed.

Originality/value

This work offers an in-depth examination of a champion facing a wicked problem, here the COVID-19 pandemic, while the crisis is ongoing. By capturing the champion’s observations and experiences in real time, the authors obtain a perspective that is unique and unavailable through other methods.
Work engagement or job burnout? Psychological ownership amongst the employees of international tourist hotels
Authors: Dai You-De , Zhuang Wen-Long , Lu Sung-Cheng , Huan Tzung-Cheng
Published: September 2020

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to explore the impact of psychological ownership on work engagement and job burnout within international tourist hotel employees, and simultaneously examine the moderating role of regulatory foci.

Design/methodology/approach

This research collected questionnaire samples from the employees of international tourist hotels in the cities of Taiwan (Taipei, Taichung and Kaohsiung) and China (Xiamen and Quanzhou). Purposive sampling was adopted. In total, 300 questionnaires were distributed to each hotel, and the total number of questionnaires finally distributed reached 1,500.

Findings

This research applies social identity theory and regulatory theory to develop a new research framework with the sample of the employees in the five-star international tourism hotel. This study found that psychological ownership has a significant and positive effect on work engagement and has a negative effect on job burnout. In addition, regulatory foci moderate the relationship between psychological ownership and work engagement as well as the relationship between psychological ownership and job burnout respectively. These analytic results fill the research gap within the literature in relation to the moderating effects of a regulatory focus on psychological ownership’s relationships to work engagement and job burnout.

Originality/value

This study explains how employees with high psychological ownership will develop higher work engagement and lower job burnout. In addition, this research also includes regulatory foci as a situational variable to examine the moderating relationship with psychological ownership, work engagement, and job burnout.
Assessing the correlation between the quality of working life and perceived stress in a rehabilitation hospital
Authors: Kalanlar Bilge , Akçay Duygu , Karabay İlkay
Published: September 2020

Purpose

This study aims to examine the relationship between the quality of working lives and the perceived stress of health personnel working in a hospital specialized in physical medicine and rehabilitation services.

Design/methodology/approach

This descriptive correlational study was conducted with health personnel providing medical, sport and vocational rehabilitation in an education and research hospital. The Quality of Work Life Scale (QWLS) and the Perceived Stress Scale (PSS) questionnaires were used to collect data. Descriptive statistics were used for quantitative analysis.

Findings

There was a positive correlation between their stress scores on the QWLS and perceived stress on the PSS. The highest score on the QWLS was obtained from the dimension of working conditions (3.47), and the lowest score was obtained from the dimension of stress (1.34). The mean score on the PSS was 33.18 ± 3.29. No significant relationship was found between participants’ scores on the PSS and their demographic characteristics.

Practical implications

There is a need to improve the quality of rehabilitation providers’ working lives by reducing their work-related stress.

Originality/value

As rehabilitation personnel play an important role in protecting and promoting the health of vulnerable groups in the society, it is a main priority to examine the relationship between rehabilitation providers’ perceived stress and the quality of their working lives.
Long‐term ecological legacies in western Amazonia
Authors: Åkesson Christine M. , McMichael Crystal N. H. , Raczka Marco F. , Huisman Seringe N. , Palmeira Mona , Vogel Johnny , Neill David , Veizaj Jason , Bush Mark B.
Published: September 2020

Modifications of Amazonian forests by pre‐Columbian peoples are thought to have left ecological legacies that have persisted to the modern day. Most Amazonian palaeoecological records do not, however, provide the required temporal resolution to document the nuanced changes of pre‐Columbian disturbance or post‐disturbance succession and recovery, making it difficult to detect any direct, or indirect, ecological legacies on tree species.

Here, we investigate the fossil pollen, phytolith and charcoal history of Lake Kumpaka, Ecuador, during the last 2,415 years inc. 3–50 year time intervals to assess ecological legacies resulting from pre‐Columbian forest modification, disturbance, cultivation and fire usage.

Two cycles of pre‐Columbian cultivation (one including slash‐and‐burn cultivation, the other including slash‐and‐mulch cultivation) were documented in the record around 2150–1430 cal. year BP and 1250–680 cal. year BP, with following post‐disturbance succession dynamics. Modern disturbance was documented afterc. 10 cal. year BP. The modern disturbance produced a plant composition unlike those of the two past disturbances, as fire frequencies reached their peak in the 2,415‐year record. The disturbance periods varied in intensity and duration, while the overturn of taxa following a disturbance lasted for hundreds of years. The recovery periods following pre‐Columbian disturbance shared some similar patterns of early succession, but the longer‐term recovery patterns differed.

Synthesis. The trajectories of change after a cessation of cultivation can be anticipated to differ depending on the intensity, scale, duration and manner of the past disturbance. In the Kumpakarecord, no evidence of persistent enrichment or depletion of intentionally altered taxa (i.e. direct legacy effects) was found but indirect legacy effects, however, were documented and have persisted to the modern day. These findings highlight the strengths of using empirical data to reconstruct past change rather than relying solely on modern plant populations to infer past human management and ecological legacies, and challenge some of the current hypotheses involving the persistence of pre‐Columbian legacies on modern plant populations.
Chemometric strategies for nondestructive and rapid assessment of nitrate content in harvested spinach using Vis‐NIR spectroscopy
Authors: Mahanti Naveen Kumar , Chakraborty Subir Kumar , Kotwaliwale Nachiket , Vishwakarma Anand Kumar
Published: September 2020

The overuse of nitrogenous fertilizers leads to an increase in the nitrate content of green leafy vegetables. Consumption of food with excess nitrate is not advisable because it results in human ailment. In this study, spinach leaves were harvested from plants grown under nine varying (0 to 400 kg/ha) nitrogenous fertilizer doses. A total of 261 samples were used to predict the nitrate content in spinach leaves using Vis‐NIR (350 to 2,500 nm). The nitrate content was measured destructively using the ion‐selective conductive method. Partial least square (PLS) regression models were developed using whole spectra and featured wavelengths. Spectral data were pre‐processed using different spectral pre‐processing techniques such as Savitzky–Golay (SG) derivative, standard normal variate (SNV), multiplicative scatter correction (MSC), baseline correction, and detrending. The predictive accuracy of the PLS model had improved after pre‐processing of spectral data with MSC (RPDCV = 1.767; SECV = 545.745; biasCV = −3.107; slopeCV = 0.698) and SNV (RPDCV = 1.768; SECV = 545.337; biasCV = −3.201; slopeCV = 0.698) technique, but this was not significant (P < 0.05) as compared with raw spectral data (RPDCV = 1.679; SECV = 572.669; biasCV = −7.046; slopeCV = 0.687). The effective wavelengths for measurement nitrate content in spinach leaves were identified as 558, 706, 780, 1,000, and 1,420 nm. The performance of PLS model developed with effective wavelengths also had good prediction accuracy (RPDCV = 1.482; SECV = 648.672; biasCV = −3.805; slopeCV = 0.565) but significantly lower than the performance of model developed with full spectral data. The overall results of this study suggest that Vis‐NIR spectroscopy can be an important tool and has great potential for the rapid and nondestructive assessment of nitrate content in harvested spinach, with a view to ascertain the suitability of the harvest for food uses.

Practical Application

Better production and brighter color of leafy vegetable drive the farming community to overuse nitrogenous fertilizer. This has resulted in higher nitrate content in vegetables. It has been widely reported that consumption of these vegetables has carcinogenic effects on human beings. The prediction of nitrate content in leafy vegetables by traditional methods is time‐consuming (30 min, including sample preparation time), destructive, and tedious; moreover, it cannot be used for inline applications. This study reports spectroscopy‐based rapid (<5 s) assessment technique for nitrate measurement. A multivariable PLS model was developed using wavelengths representing nitrate content. This model can be adopted by food industries for inline applications.
Screening of a genome‐reduced Corynebacterium glutamicum strain library for improved heterologous cutinase secretion
Authors: Hemmerich Johannes , Labib Mohamed , Steffens Carmen , Reich Sebastian J. , Weiske Marc , Baumgart Meike , Rückert Christian , Ruwe Matthias , Siebert Daniel , Wendisch Volker F. , Kalinowski Jörn , Wiechert Wolfgang , Oldiges Marco
Published: September 2020

The construction of microbial platform organisms by means of genome reduction is an ongoing topic in biotechnology. In this study, we investigated whether the deletion of single or multiple gene clusters has a positive effect on the secretion of cutinase from Fusarium solani pisi in the industrial workhorse Corynebacterium glutamicum. A total of 22 genome‐reduced strain variants were compared applying two Sec signal peptides from Bacillus subtilis. High‐throughput phenotyping using robotics‐integrated microbioreactor technology with automated harvesting revealed distinct cutinase secretion performance for a specific combination of signal peptide and genomic deletions. The biomass‐specific cutinase yield for strain GRS41_51_NprE was increased by ~ 200%, although the growth rate was reduced by ~ 60%. Importantly, the causative deletions of genomic clusters cg2801‐cg2828 and rrnC‐cg3298 could not have been inferred a priori. Strikingly, bioreactor fed‐batch cultivations at controlled growth rates resulted in a complete reversal of the screening results, with the cutinase yield for strain GRS41_51_NprE dropping by ~ 25% compared to the reference strain. Thus, the choice of bioprocess conditions may turn a ‘high‐performance’ strain from batch screening into a ‘low‐performance’ strain in fed‐batch cultivation. In conclusion, future studies are needed in order to understand metabolic adaptations of C. glutamicum to both genomic deletions and different bioprocess conditions.
Comparative effects of varenicline or combination nicotine replacement therapy versus patch monotherapy on candidate mediators of early abstinence in a smoking cessation attempt
Authors: Kim Nayoung , McCarthy Danielle E. , Piper Megan E. , Baker Timothy B.
Published: September 2020

Background and aims

The phase‐based model of smoking cessation treatment suggests that treatment needs may vary across phases (e.g. pre‐cessation, cessation). This study tested the comparative effects of varenicline and combination nicotine replacement therapy (C‐NRT) relative to nicotine patch monotherapy on pre‐cessation and cessation phase candidate withdrawal, expectancy and motivation mediators; relations between mediators and abstinence; and indirect effects of enhanced treatments on abstinence via candidate mediators.

Design

Secondary mediation analysis of data from the open‐label, randomized Wisconsin Smokers’ Health Study 2, a comparative effectiveness trial of varenicline or C‐NRT, versus patch monotherapy, in adults who smoked, recruited via media and community outreach.

Setting

Research clinics in Madison and Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA.

Participants

A total of 1051 daily smokers motivated to quit smoking (52.5% female; mean age = 48.1, standard deviation = 11.6).

Interventions

Twelve weeks of varenicline (n = 407) or 12 weeks of combination nicotine patch and nicotine lozenge therapy (n = 421), both compared with 12 weeks of patch control condition (n = 230), with individual smoking cessation counseling.

Measurements

The primary abstinence outcome was biochemically verified 7‐day point‐prevalence abstinence 4 weeks post‐target quit day (TQD). Candidate mediators (craving, positive smoking expectancies, withdrawal symptoms, and quitting motivation) were assessed via ecological momentary assessment from 1 week prior (pre‐cessation phase) to 4 weeks after (cessation phase) the TQD.

Findings

Pre‐cessation and cessation mean levels and slopes of craving [adjusted odds ratio (aOR) = 0.34–0.79], smoking expectancies (aOR = 0.46–0.79) and quitting motivation (aOR = 1.35–7.21) significantly predicted 4‐week post‐TQD abstinence (P < 0.05). Significant varenicline mediation occurred via greater suppression in pre‐cessation craving [mediated effect (ab) = 0.09, standard error (SE) = 0.03, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 0.04–0.14] and smoking expectancies (ab = 0.06, SE = 0.02, 95% CI = 0.02–0.12). C‐NRT mediation occurred via greater reduction in pre–post‐TQD changes in craving (ab = 0.04, SE = 0.02, 95% CI = 0.01–0.08) and expectancies (ab = 0.03, SE = 0.02, 95% CI = 0.001–0.07), relative to patch monotherapy.

Conclusion

Among adult smokers seeking to quit, varenicline seems to work through its effects on suppression of craving and smoking expectancies pre‐cessation while combination nicotine replacement therapy mediation seems to work through cessation‐related reduction in craving and smoking expectancies changes.
An analysis of the academic capacity of anaesthesia in the UK by publication trends and academic units
Authors: Ratnayake G. , El‐Boghdadly K. , Pandit J. J.
Published: September 2020

Over a decade ago, bibliometric analysis predicted the disappearance of UK publishing in anaesthesia by 2020. We repeated this analysis to assess if this had turned out to be the case, searching PubMed for papers associated with UK consultant anaesthetists for 2017–2019 across 15 journals. Although the rate of decline has flattened using the same search filter, including a wider range of publication types shows that outputs still remain at half 1990s levels (381 papers for all 3 years combined), authored by 769 anaesthetists, 274 of whom are associated with an academic centre. There are now 11 identifiable academic units, and a further 15 places where anaesthetists have affiliations with academic centres as individuals. The majority of papers (71%) are in secondary analysis (observational, database and association studies, surveys and meta‐analyses), rather than in primary research (clinical trials or laboratory studies). These data reflect the current academic capacity in terms of publications, academic units and staffing. We discuss how this information can be used to inform a new strategy for UK academic anaesthesia.
Risk factors for emergency room use and rehospitalization among opioid‐exposed newborns in Massachusetts
Authors: Hwang Sunah S. , Liu Chia‐ling , Yu Qi , Cui Xiaohui , Diop Hafsatou
Published: September 2020

Objective

To determine the risk factors for receipt of emergency room (ER) care and rehospitalization among opioid‐exposed newborns in Massachusetts.

Design/Methods

We analyzed two linked data sets from 2002 to 2010: (a) Massachusetts Pregnancy to Early Life Longitudinal Data System and (b) Massachusetts Bureau of Substance Abuse Services Management Information System. Generalized estimating equations were used to assess the independent association of maternal and infant characteristics with ER use and rehospitalization in the first year of life.

Results

Four thousand and five hundred and twenty‐four maternal‐infant dyads affected by OUD were included in the analysis. In adjusted analysis, risk factors for receipt of ER care included Hispanic ethnicity (aOR 1.63 [95% CI 1.30‐2.05]), lower education levels (aOR 1.54‐1.69 [95% CI 1.12‐2.31]), nonprivate insurance (aOR 1.44 [95% CI 1.11‐1.86]), and presence of maternal chronic conditions (aOR 1.14 [95% CI 1.01‐1.29]). Risk factors for rehospitalization included prematurity (aOR 1.44 [95% CI 1.14‐1.82]), low birthweight (aOR 2.02 [95% CI 1.63‐2.49]), and nonprivate insurance (aOR 1.58 [95% CI 1.13‐2.22]). Prolonged infant birth hospitalization was protective against both ER use (aOR 0.84 [95% CI 0.73‐0.96]) and rehospitalization (aOR 0.63 [95% CI 0.53‐0.75]).

Conclusions

Clinical and sociodemographic characteristics are risk factors for receipt of ER care and rehospitalization among opioid‐exposed newborns in Massachusetts.
Next‐generation sequencing in hypoplastic bone marrow failure: What difference does it make?
Authors: Skibenes Sofie T. , Clausen Ida , Raaschou‐Jensen Klas
Published: September 2020

Hypoplastic bone marrow failure is a diagnostic feature of multiple haematological disorders, which also share a substantial overlap of clinical symptoms. Hence, discrimination of underlying disorders in patients presenting with hypoplastic bone marrow failure remains a major challenge in the clinic. Recent next‐generation sequencing (NGS) studies have broadened our understanding of the varying molecular mechanisms and advanced diagnostics of disorders exhibiting hypoplastic bone marrow failure. In this article, we present a literature review of NGS studies of haematological disorders associated with hypoplastic bone marrow failure and highlight the relevance of NGS for improved clinical diagnostics and decision‐making.
Evaluation of new compositions of 10% hydrogen peroxide‐based bleaching agents containing trimetaphosphate and fluoride on enamel demineralization
Authors: dos Santos Ana L. E. , Delbem Alberto C. B. , Danelon Marcelle , Marcon Laércio N. , Shinohara Mirela S.
Published: September 2020

This study evaluated the effect on enamel demineralization of 10% hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) gels containing different concentrations of sodium trimetaphosphate (TMP) and sodium fluoride (NaF) combined with the daily use of fluoridated or placebo dentifrice. Bovine enamel blocks were selected by surface hardness (n = 72) and randomly assigned to one of the following experimental treatments: 10% H2O2; 10% H2O2 + 3% TMP + 0.1% NaF; and 10% H2O2 + 0.3% TMP + 0.05% NaF, each with or without fluoridated dentifrice. H2O2‐based gels were applied for 30 min d−1 followed by treatment with dentifrice (1 min). Enamels blocks were stored in artificial saliva at 37°C between sessions during the 14 days of experiment. Percentage of surface hardness loss (%SH) was calculated, and the blocks were cut into halves to analyze cross‐sectional hardness (ΔKHN). Polarized light microscopy images were obtained of the longitudinal sections of the samples. Enamel treated with fluoridated dentifrice presented lower hardness loss than those treated with placebo dentifrice (%SH and ΔKHN). Use of TMP‐ and NaF‐based gels, regardless of concentration, led to the lowest %SH values. Specimens treated with 10% H2O2 gel had the highest %SH and ΔKHN values. Gels with 10% H2O2 + 3% TMP + 0.1% NaF showed the lowest ΔKHN values. Microscopy images clearly showed that the addition of TMP and NaF to the H2O2‐based gels was effective in reducing the loss of hardness, and the fluoridated dentifrice helped minimize it in all treatments.
Within‐patient phylogenetic reconstruction reveals early events in Barrett’s Esophagus
Authors: Smith Lucian P. , Yamato Jon A. , Galipeau Patricia C. , Paulson Thomas G. , Li Xiaohong , Sanchez Carissa A. , Reid Brian J. , Kuhner Mary K.
Published: September 2020

Barrett's Esophagus is a neoplastic condition which progresses to esophageal adenocarcinoma in 5% of cases. Key events affecting the outcome likely occur before diagnosis of Barrett's and cannot be directly observed; we use phylogenetic analysis to infer such past events. We performed whole‐genome sequencing on 4–6 samples from 40 cancer outcome and 40 noncancer outcome patients with Barrett's Esophagus, and inferred within‐patient phylogenies of deconvoluted clonal lineages. Spatially proximate lineages clustered in the phylogenies, but temporally proximate ones did not. Lineages with inferred loss‐of‐function mutations in both copies of TP53 and CDKN2A showed enhanced spatial spread, whereas lineages with loss‐of‐function mutations in other frequently mutated loci did not. We propose a two‐phase model with expansions of TP53 and CKDN2A mutant lineages during initial growth of the segment, followed by relative stasis. Subsequent to initial expansion, mutations in these loci as well as ARID1A and SMARCA4 may show a local selective advantage but do not expand far: The spatial structure of the Barrett's segment remains stable during surveillance even in patients who go on to cancer. We conclude that the cancer/noncancer outcome is strongly affected by early steps in formation of the Barrett's segment.
Strategic switchgrass (Panicum virgatum) production within row cropping systems: Regional‐scale assessment of soil erosion loss and water runoff impacts
Authors: Wang Enheng , Cruse Richard M. , Sharma‐Acharya Bharat , Herzmann Daryl E. , Gelder Brian K. , James David E. , Flanagan Dennis C. , Blanco‐Canqui Humberto , Mitchell Robert B. , Laird David A.
Published: September 2020

A strong need exists for tools to assess the efficacy of conservation practices across large regions supporting informed policy decisions that may lead to better soil and water conservation while optimizing agricultural production options. Perennial warm‐season grasses (WSGs) such as switchgrass (Panicum virgatum), can be grown on marginally productive and/or environmentally sensitive lands to meet growing bioenergy demands while reducing water runoff and soil erosion compared to current row crop systems. Quantifying the soil and water conservation effects of WSG when strategically placed on the landscape would help support decisions favoring both economic and environmental benefits. We used the Daily Erosion Project (DEP) to simulate the effects of WSGs on hillslope water runoff and soil loss for 2008–2016 across eight major land resource areas (MLRA) in the Midwest United States. Four different scenarios (baseline or existing conditions and switchgrass grown on slopes ≥3%, ≥6%, and ≥10%) were modeled. Across all hillslope groups replacing row crops with switchgrass reduced yearly water runoff and soil loss by 3.2%–12.1% and 43.7%–95.5% compared with the baseline levels, respectively. Water and soil conservation efficiency (water runoff reductions or soil loss reductions associated with 1% increase in switchgrass coverage) increased with slope as 10% > 6% > 3% for all MLRAs. Switchgrass replacement on slopes ≥10% reduced average soil loss estimates as much as 22.6 Mg ha−1 year−1 for the most erosive MLRA (baseline soil erosion rate of 28.6 Mg ha−1 year−1) and resulted in all MLRA erosion estimates ≤6.0 Mg ha−1 year−1. For soil loss, an apparent interaction existed between slope group and total annual precipitation; as annual precipitation increased, the difference in soil loss between slope groups increased. Soil loss was more sensitive to these factors than was water runoff. Policy supporting a renewable energy industry while strategically improving soil and water resources seems globally advantageous.
An uneven playing field: Experiences of female legal practitioners in Zimbabwe
Authors: Maunganidze Farai , Bonnin Debby
Published: September 2020

This article focuses on women legal practitioners in Zimbabwe. Despite extensive legislation outlawing gender‐based discrimination, Zimbabwean women have not been able to achieve equality in the workplace. The article explores the conundrum posed by, on the one hand, an increase in enrollments and graduations of women law students, and on the other hand, fewer women entering legal practice. The article suggests three dynamics lie behind the failure of practice to attract and retain female lawyers. First, overt discrimination faced by female lawyers. Second, the structuring of the profession and work environment, which creates an “uneven playing field.” And third, the attitudes of male practitioners and partners as well as the spouses of women lawyers, which affect the entry and retention of women in the profession as well as their career prospects. Subsequently, women legal practitioners are accorded a lower professional status than men and are underrepresented in important facets of legal practice. The study was premised on social role theory and the concept of the glass ceiling. Forty‐six participants were interviewed in an interpretivist approach study where data was analyzed using thematic analysis with the assistance of ATLAS TI 8.
Applying a Regional Transport Modeling Framework to Manage Nitrate Contamination of Groundwater
Authors: Yang Lihong , Zheng Chunmiao , Andrews Charles B. , Wang Chengjian
Published: September 2020

Regional nitrate contamination in groundwater is a management challenge involving multisector benefits. There is always conflict between restricting anthropogenic activities to protect groundwater quality and prioritizing economic development, especially in productive agriculture dominated areas. To mitigate the nitrate contamination in groundwater, it is necessary to develop management alternatives that simultaneously support environmental protection and sustainable economic development. A regional transport modeling framework is applied to evaluate nitrate fate and transport in the Dagu Aquifer, a shallow sandy aquifer that supplies drinking water and irrigation water for a thriving agricultural economy in Shandong Province in east coastal China. The aquifer supports intensive high‐value vegetable farms and nitrate contamination is extensive. Detailed land‐use information and fertilizer use data were compiled and statistical approaches were employed to analyze nitrogen source loadings and the spatiotemporal distribution of nitrate in groundwater to support model construction and calibration. The evaluations reveal that the spatial distribution and temporal trends of nitrate contamination in the Dagu Aquifer are driven by intensive fertilization and vertical water exchange, the dominant flow pattern derived from intensive agricultural pumping and irrigation. The modeling framework is employed to assess the effectiveness of potentially applicable management alternatives. The predictive results provide quantitative comparisons for the trend and extent of groundwater quality mitigation under each scenario. Recommendations are made for measures that can both improve groundwater quality and sustain productive agricultural development.
Teaching L2 collocations through concept‐based instruction: The effect of L2 proficiency and congruency
Authors: Tsai Mei‐Hsing
Published: September 2020

This study examines the effect of concept‐based instruction (CBI) on teaching English congruent and incongruent verb‐noun collocations for college students at two proficiency levels. Fifty‐eight Chinese learners of English acquired five target verbs (make,do,take,get, andhave) and related 14 congruent and incongruent collocations through CBI materials. Participants' collocational knowledge was assessed by two types of form recall tests. Statistical results of the pretests, immediate posttests, and one‐week delayed posttests showed positive effects of CBI on the two groups' acquisition and retention of congruent and incongruent collocations. However, the findings indicated that the accuracy of incongruent collocations appeared to fall behind that of congruent collocations. This study concludes with pedagogical implications for teaching congruent and incongruent verb‐noun collocations through CBI.
Structure and vibrations of cerium in silica glass from molecular dynamics simulations
Authors: Tian Ye , Han Wei , Yuan Xiaodong , Hu Dongxia , Zheng Wanguo , Zhu Qihua , Wang Fang
Published: September 2020

Molecular dynamics simulations are performed to investigate the effect of cerium on the structural and vibrational properties of silica glass. At low‐concentration levels, the cerium ions tend to generate longer bonds with bridging oxygens than nonbridging ones, the proportion of which is associated with the average bond length varied with cerium coordination. Formed in the presence of cerium, the bond angles exhibit strong dependence on the types of Ce‐O bonds that bring about different angular distributions. Despite the discrepancy in the structures between Ce3+ and Ce4+, similar characteristics of vibrations are observed for the two states. In comparison with the glass formers, the vibrations of cerium that contribute primarily to the low‐frequency region show a less localized behavior, whereas the acoustic‐like and optic‐like modes separate at a much smaller frequency.
Perceptions of optimal end‐of‐life care in hospitals: A cross‐sectional study of nurses in three locations
Authors: Waller Amy , Chan Sally , Chan Carmen W. H. , Chow Meyrick C. M. , Kim Miyoung , Kang Sook Jung , Oldmeadow Christopher , Sanson‐Fisher Robert
Published: September 2020

Aim

To examine whether nurses' location of employment, demographics, or training influences their perceptions of what constitutes optimal care for dying patients in hospital.

Design

Questionnaire‐based, cross‐sectional study.

Methods

Between December 2016–June 2018, 582 registered or enrolled nurses from Australia (N = 153), South Korea (N = 241), and Hong Kong (N = 188) employed in a variety of hospital care units rated the extent to which they agreed with 29 indicators of optimal end‐of‐life care across four domains: patient, family, healthcare team, and healthcare system. Latent class analysis identified classes of respondents with similar responses.

Results

Top five indicators rated by participants included: ‘physical symptoms managed well’; ‘private rooms and unlimited visiting hours’; ‘spend as much time with the patient as families wish’; 'end‐of‐life care documents stored well and easily accessed’ and ‘families know and follow patient's wishes’. Four latent classes were generated: ‘Whole system/holistic’ (Class 1); ‘Patient/provider‐dominated’ (Class 2); ‘Family‐dominated’ (Class 3) and ‘System‐dominated’ (Class 4). Class 1 had the highest proportion of nurses responding positively for all indicators. Location was an important correlate of perceptions, even after controlling for individual characteristics.

Conclusion

Nurses' perceptions of optimal end‐of‐life care are associated with location, but perhaps not in the direction that stereotypes would suggest. Findings highlight the importance of developing and implementing location‐specific approaches to optimize end‐of‐life care in hospitals.

Impact

The findings may be useful to guide education and policy initiatives in Asian and Western countries that stress that end‐of‐life care is more than symptom management. Indicators can be used to collect data that help quantify differences between optimal care and the care actually being delivered, thereby determining where improvements might be made.
Cosmetic commentary: Is bakuchiol the new "skincare hero"?
Authors: Spierings Natalia M. K.
Published: September 2020

Bakuchiol is a new trendy ingredient in cosmetic skincare products, claiming to have similar efficacy to over‐the‐counter vitamin A derivative products. The manufacturers use clinical trial data to support the claims that bakuchiol has anti‐aging properties. This commentary critically appraises these clinical trials. Dermatologists need to be aware of and clinically appraise evidence for these types of cosmetic ingredients in order to provide accurate recommendations to their patients and the consumer. The integrity of our profession and the well‐being of our patients depend on it.
Autologous activated platelet‐rich plasma in hair growth: A pilot study in male androgenetic alopecia with in vitro bioactivity investigation
Authors: Zhou Yinghui , Liu Qingmei , Bai Yanshuang , Yang Kai , Ye Yaqi , Wu Kejia , Huang Junhong , Zhang Yue , Zhang Xuewenjun , Thianthanyakij Traidit , Wang Ji’an , Zhu Yifei , Lin Jinran , Wu Wenyu
Published: September 2020

Background

Platelet‐rich plasma (PRP) is effective in the treatment of androgenetic alopecia (AGA).

Aims

The purpose of this study is to assess the effect of PRP on the proliferation of human follicle dermal papilla cells (HFDPCs), to observe the effect of PRP on the growth of hair follicles and hair shaft in vitro, to measure growth factors, and to evaluate the efficacy and safety of PRP injection.

Patients/Methods

The effect of PRP on the proliferation of HFDPCs was observed. The length of hair follicle and hair shaft in vitro was measured. Then, the concentration of growth factors (EGF, FGF‐2, FGF‐7, IGF‐1, HGF, PDGF‐BB, and VEGF‐A) was evaluated. Half‐head injection of PRP was conducted to 10 males. Three treatments were conducted at 30‐day intervals. Digital photographs were taken; hair diameter, hair density, unit density of hair follicles, and terminal hair/ vellus hair were analyzed.

Results

Platelet‐rich plasma significantly promoted the proliferation of HFDPCs. Under the PRP culture, the hair follicle and hair shaft were grown, and the hair growth length on the 3rd and 6th days was greater than that of the control. PRP contained growth factors such as EGF, FGF‐2, FGF‐7, IGF‐1, HGF, PDGF‐B, and VEGF‐A. Hair diameter, hair density, and unit hair follicle density on the PRP injection side peaked in the 6th month. The terminal hair/ vellus hair of the PRP injection side reached a peak in the 4th month. The average patient satisfaction during the entire treatment was 5.4 points (0‐10 points).

Conclusion

Platelet‐rich plasma can promote hair growth. PRP injection is safe and effective for the treatment of AGA.
Liver cirrhosis turns life into an unpredictable roller coaster: A qualitative interview study
Authors: Hjorth Maria , Svanberg Anncarin , Sjöberg Daniel , Rorsman Fredrik , Kaminsky Elenor
Published: September 2020

Aim

To explore how persons living with liver cirrhosis experience day‐to‐day life.

Background

Liver cirrhosis is the sixth most common cause of death among adults in Western countries. Persons with advanced liver cirrhosis report poor quality of life, in comparison with other chronic diseases. However, knowledge regarding day‐to‐day life during earlier stages of the disease is lacking. In other chronic diseases, the suffering process is well explored, while in liver cirrhosis, suffering is insufficiently investigated.

Design

An exploratory study, with a qualitative inductive interview approach.

Methods

A purposive maximum variation sample of 20 informants with liver cirrhosis aged 25–71, from two gastroenterology outpatient clinics in mid‐Sweden, were interviewed from September 2016 to October 2017. Interview data were analysed inductively with qualitative content analysis. Reporting followed the COREQ guidelines.

Results

The experiences of day‐to‐day life living with liver cirrhosis comprised four sub‐themes. Living with liver cirrhosis implied varying levels of deterioration, the most apparent being exhaustion or tiredness. The informants had to find ways of adapting to a new life situation. The insecurity of future health evoked existential reflections such as feeling emotionally and existentially distressed. Shame and guilt were reasons for feeling stigmatised. These sub‐themes emerged into one overarching theme of meaning: life turns into an unpredictable roller coaster. This is based on experiences of liver cirrhosis as an unpredictable disease with fluctuating symptoms, worries and disease progression.

Conclusion

Living with cirrhosis implies an unpredictable condition with a progressive, stigmatising disease. The fluctuating symptoms and deep concerns about future life pose an increased personal suffering.

Relevance to clinical practice

Within health care, knowledge of the person's experience is vital to enable and fulfil the person's healthcare needs. Clinical registered nurses need a person‐centred approach to strengthen their patients to cope with their new life situation.
The informational privacy of patients in prehospital emergency care—Integrative literature review
Authors: Koskimies Eini , Koskinen Sanna , Leino‐Kilpi Helena , Suhonen Riitta
Published: September 2020

Aims and objectives

To explore the informational privacy of patients in prehospital emergency care based on the existing literature.

Background

Informational privacy, a central value in health care, is strongly connected to patients' safety and quality of care. However, its realisation faces challenges in the unique context of prehospital emergency care.

Design

Integrative literature review.

Methods

Systematic searches of the CINAHL, MEDLINE and Cochrane library databases (n = 1588) and a manual search of the reference lists of the included articles (n = 0) were conducted in August 2019. In the article selection, specified inclusion and exclusion criteria were used. Two Joanna Briggs Institute quality appraisal tools were used. Ultimately, 11 studies were included. Analysis was conducted by using content analysis. Overall, process of the review was guided by PRISMA checklist.

Results

The number of primary research studies related to informational privacy in prehospital emergency care is limited and mainly focused on privacy and confidentiality. The informational privacy was described from three aspects (a) information control by patients, (b) information protection by healthcare professional and (c) concepts related to informational privacy. The realisation of patients' informational privacy varied. Factors related to the realisation were related to the paramedics, the prehospital emergency care work and the patients.

Conclusion

More research specifically focused on informational privacy in prehospital emergency care is needed. Paramedics' understanding of informational privacy and its protection is essential to enhance the realisation of patients' informational privacy. Therefore, a response is required to their need for more education concerning informational privacy.

Relevance to clinical practice

Paramedics' attention should be drawn to the identified factors related to the realisation of informational privacy and its use in clinical practice in order to continue to provide high‐quality prehospital emergency care.
Insufficiently supported in handling responsibility and demands: Findings from a qualitative study of newly graduated nurses
Authors: Willman Anna , Bjuresäter Kaisa , Nilsson Jan
Published: September 2020

Aims and objectives

To explore newly graduated registered nurses' experiences and how they manage complex patient situations.

Background

Newly graduated registered nurses' working in acute care hospital settings are challenged by managing complex patient situations in rapidly changing clinical contexts involving increased patient acuity, comorbidities and staffing shortages.

Design

Qualitative study design.

Methods

Data were collected using focus groups interviews of a total of 16 newly graduated registered nurses with clinical work experience of 6 months of direct patient care in an acute care hospital setting. Analyses were conducted using qualitative content analysis. COREQ reporting guidelines were used.

Results

The analysis resulted in the overarching theme “Not being sufficiently prepared and supported to meet responsibilities and demands.” The theme included three categories: “Responsibility is not in proportion to competence,” “Lack of medical competence and experience complicates patient safety” and “Strives for control to manage and organise nursing care.”

Conclusion

The results show that newly graduated registered nurses' are not sufficiently supported for the level of responsibility and the demands placed on them when providing nursing in complex patient situations in acute care hospital settings. If they are given sole responsibility for multiple complex patient situations, patient safety may be compromised.

Relevance to practice

Special attention need to be paid to NGRNs support to medical competence in the areas of assessing, planning, prioritizing, leading, and distributing nursing care in daily clinical settings for at least their first year of professional work.