bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The role of real estate and gold as inflation hedges: the Islamic influence
Authors: Gulseven Osman , Ekici Ozgun
Published: December 2020

Purpose

This paper aims to understand how aversion to interest income in Islam may influence the demand for real estate and gold when inflation is rampant.

Design/methodology/approach

According to Markowitz’s mean-variance model, an optimal portfolio is one that blends maximum return with minimum variance. In investment portfolios, real estate and gold serve as inflation hedges. For religious reasons, many Muslims exclude interest-earning assets from their portfolios, however. This paper explores how this attitude influences the hedging role of real estate and gold when inflation is rampant. This paper compares optimal portfolios that include and do not include interest-earning assets. In the calculations, this study uses monthly Turkish data from 1997 until 2018.

Findings

The analysis shows that the best hedging instrument against inflation is an interest-earning asset. In its absence, the role of real estate and gold as inflation hedges markedly increases: For a medium-return and medium-risk portfolio, for instance, the portfolio share of gold holdings increases from 3.16% to 58.43% and that for real estate increases from 14.97% to 24.06%.

Originality/value

This paper is a pioneering work on the influence of Islam on the roles of real estate and gold as inflation hedges when inflation is rampant. It provides an explanation from financial theory for the strong real estate and gold demand in Turkey in the past two decades.
New SEC variable contract summary prospectus rules: an implementation project plan
Authors: Conner W. Thomas , Segal Nathaniel , Sanders John M.
Published: December 2020

Purpose

To analyze the SEC’s newly adopted Rule 498 A, the variable contract summary prospectus rule, and concurrently adopted prospectus disclosure requirements in order to propose to insurance companies issuing variable contracts a project implementation plan for companies seeking SEC approval for summary prospectuses compliant with the new rules.

Design/methodology/approach

Discusses the history, requirements, effects, and expected implementation timeline of the new rules, then offers a detailed project plan and timeline for compliance.

Findings

The Rule does not require insurers to use summary prospectuses, but there are several compelling reasons for doing so. The Rule allows insurers to use a new concise and brief selling document, and by so doing to begin generating very significant cost savings as soon as May 1, 2021. The article provides a detailed implementation plan for insurance companies that want to comply with the new prospectus disclosure requirements and implement policies and procedures to begin using summary prospectuses.

Practical implications

A coordinated project implementation plan like that outlined in the article might assist insurance companies to make the requisite statutory prospectus revisions and prepare and obtain SEC approval of summary prospectuses by May 1, 2021.

Originality/value

Analysis from experienced attorneys who frequently advise insurance companies issuing fixed and variable annuities, and assist clients in navigating the complex regulatory requirements governing insurance and securities products.
Retiring early for being emotionally exhausted or staying committed at workplace: a mediation analysis
Authors: Singla Himanshu , Singh Amandeep , Mehta Pooja
Published: December 2020

Purpose

Based on the job demands–resources (JD-R) model, this study aims to answer a key research question, i.e. can the job characteristics (i.e. job demands and resources) affect intention to retire early? Additionally, a mediating effect of emotional exhaustion and organizational commitment on the relationships of job demands and job resources, respectively, with early retirement intentions has been explored in the study.

Design/methodology/approach

The data has been collected from survey of 450 employees from the banking sector in the state of Punjab (India). A structured questionnaire adapted from past literature has been used as survey instrument for the study. Partial least squares structural equation modelling has been applied in the study using latest version of SmartPLS (version 3.2.8) software.

Findings

Both job resources and job demands have a direct significant impact on early retirement intentions. Moreover, a significant partial mediation effect of emotional exhaustion and affective organizational commitment has also been found out on the relationship of job demands and job resources with early retirement intentions, respectively.

Originality/value

The study makes incremental contribution by highlighting the role of both deterrent and motivational factors that either instigate or discourage early retirement intentions among employees. It offers valuable insights for the organizations to use efforts for curtailing the excessive job demands that lead to emotional exhaustion and further result in early retirement intentions. Besides this, adequate job resources should be provided to the employees that lead to the development of affective organizational commitment, which further helps in sustaining the workforce until their actual retirement age.
The concept of the level playing field: Assessing fairness in electoral competition
Authors: Sawer Marian
Published: December 2020

In 2019, the High Court of Australia used the term ‘level playing field’ no less than 18 times when considering limits on electoral campaign expenditure. This article examines the usefulness of this metaphor when assessing the opportunity to compete in elections on an equal basis. It shows that the metaphor is often used in electoral jurisprudence and by electoral monitoring bodies, but rarely subject to analysis. One place where it has been analysed is in the democratisation literature, where it is defined in terms of access to state resources, media, and the law. However, it needs further elaboration to make it useful in analysing the fairness of electoral competition in established democracies. The assumption of only two teams, incumbents and opposition, needs to be modified through considering the hierarchy of incumbency benefits. A case study of the 2019 Australian federal election illustrates the differential access to state resources of electoral contenders as well as the need to add the role of private money to the attributes of the playing field. It finds that although there has been some levelling of the playing field at the State and Territory level, at the federal level there has been further tilting.
Screening soft information: evidence from loan officers
Authors: Wang James
Published: December 2020

I evaluate how loan officers screen uncodified, soft information using data from China. After documenting substantial differences in loan decisions and outcomes across loan officers, I develop and estimate a screening model incorporating screening ability and beliefs regarding ability. Estimates imply that the typical loan officer is risk‐averse, has heterogeneous screening ability, and behaves overconfidently—behaving as if he or she observes more from soft information than what the data would indicate. However, I still find that loan officers offer value over benchmarks that ignore soft information. Counterfactuals on compensation, loan assignment, and training further explore the limits of screening.
MBHdesign: An R‐package for efficient spatial survey designs
Authors: Foster Scott D.
Published: December 2020

A considered survey design will generate data that are representative of the population that the sample is taken from. All good design takes is a little thought, some information and some good software tools.

Spatially balanced randomisation with unequal inclusion probabilities is a modern and efficient design method. These designs are embedded within sampling theory and should be easy to generate.

The R‐package MBHdesign allows field researchers easy access to these designs. It implements point‐based and transect‐based methods and allows for the incorporation of legacy sites.

The functionality of the package is illustrated with example designs in an environmentally heterogeneous region.
Clinical impact of long PR‐interval and presence of late gadolinium enhancement on hospitalized patients with non‐ischemic heart failure
Authors: Yamada Shinya , Yoshihisa Akiomi , Kaneshiro Takashi , Amami Kazuaki , Hijioka Naoko , Misaka Tomofumi , Yokokawa Tetsuro , Takeishi Yasuchika
Published: December 2020

Background

The combination of electrical and structural remodeling may have a strong effect on the prognosis of non‐ischemic heart failure (HF). We aimed to clarify whether prolonged PR‐interval and the presence of late gadolinium enhancement (LGE) on cardiac magnetic resonance imaging (CMR) influence the outcomes of patients with non‐ischemic HF.

Methods

We studied 262 consecutive hospitalized patients with non‐ischemic HF. In a clinically stable condition, a 12‐lead electrocardiogram and CMR were performed, and the clinical characteristics and outcomes were investigated.

Results

During the follow‐up of 967.7 ± 851.8 days, there were 68 (25.9%) cardiac events (HF or sudden death, re‐hospitalization due to HF, or ventricular tachyarrhythmias). In a multivariable analysis, a median rate‐adjusted PR (PRa)‐interval of ≥173.5 ms and the presence of LGE were associated with cardiac events with a hazard ratio of 1.690 and 2.045 (p = .044 and p = .006, respectively). Study subjects were then divided into four groups based on long (≥173.5 ms) or short (<173.5 ms) PRa‐interval and LGE status: short PRa/non‐LGE (n = 80), long PRa/non‐LGE (n = 72), short PRa/LGE (n = 51), and long PRa/LGE (n = 59). Cardiac events were 16.2% in short PRa/non‐LGE, 25.0% in long PRa/non‐LGE, 27.4% in short PRa/LGE, and 38.9% in long PRa/LGE (p = .026), respectively. The multivariable Cox proportional hazard analysis showed that long PRa/LGE was an independent predictor for cardiac events compared to short PRa/non‐LGE (hazard ratio, 3.378, p = .001).

Conclusions

The combination of a long PRa‐interval and the presence of LGE provide a better predictive value of cardiac events in non‐ischemic HF.
Corneal calcification of acellular porcine corneal stroma following lamellar keratoplasty
Authors: Li Hua , Dong Muchen , Zhou Qingjun , Zhao Long , Wang Fuyan , Wang Xin , Liu Ting , Xie Lixin , Shi Weiyun
Published: December 2020

Purpose

To describe the corneal calcification of acellular porcine corneal stroma (APCS) following lamellar keratoplasty (LKP) and identify risk factors.

Methods

Two cases of APCS calcification were evaluated by slit‐lamp photography and anterior segment optical coherence tomography (AS‐OCT). von Kossa staining and scanning electron microscope/energy‐dispersive spectrometry (SEM/EDS) were performed on pathologic tissue. Associated graft and postoperative risk factors were analysed. Acellular porcine corneal stroma (APCS) cleanliness and element content after rinsing with sterilized water were observed by SEM/EDS and inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry. Calcium metabolism‐related proteins were analysed by protein mass spectrometry. Corneal epithelial defects and postoperative medications were reviewed.

Results

Two cases of APCS calcification occurred at 23 and 22 days postoperatively. Anterior segment optical coherence tomography (AS‐OCT) and von Kossa staining demonstrated calcium deposition in the superficial stroma composed of calcium, phosphorus and oxygen conforming to the Ca/P ratio of hydroxyapatite. Phosphate crystals were present on the APCS surface and decreased with number of rinsing times. The phosphorus content of APCS was minimal after rinsing 10 times and avoiding excessive corneal swelling. Calcium metabolism‐related proteins were downregulated in APCS. Patients with corneal calcification had 1‐week postoperative corneal epithelial defects and were treated with three types of phosphorous eyedrops.

Conclusions

Acellular porcine corneal stroma (APCS) calcification occurs in the superficial corneal stroma about 1 month after LKP. The application of AS‐OCT, von Kossa staining and SEM/EDS provides a basis for the clinical and pathological diagnosis of corneal calcification. The associated risk factors were mainly high phosphorus content and downregulated calcium metabolism‐related proteins in APCS. Postoperative epithelial defects, inflammation and use of phosphorous eyedrops may promote corneal calcification.
Trajectories of academic achievement for students with attention‐deficit/hyperactivity disorder
Authors: Lawrence David , Houghton Stephen , Dawson Vaille , Sawyer Michael , Carroll Annemaree
Published: December 2020

Background

Attention‐deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is associated with negative social and occupational outcomes across the life course. However, there has been limited population‐based research that quantifies the impact of ADHD on academic achievement and academic trajectories.

Aims

To compare academic performance and academic trajectories of students with ADHD with students without a mental disorder.

Sample

Data were drawn from Young Minds Matter, a national population‐based sample of 6,310 Australian children and adolescents aged 4–17 years. Using linked achievement test data, the academic performance and trajectories of 327 students with ADHD were compared with those of 3,916 students without a mental disorder.

Methods

Survey data were combined with scores on national standardized tests for literacy and numeracy over an 8‐year period.

Results

In Year 3, students with ADHD were on average 1 year behind students with no mental disorder in reading and numeracy, and 9 months behind in writing. In Year 9, the gaps were much larger with students with ADHD on average 2.5 years behind in reading, 3 years behind in numeracy, and 4.5 years behind in writing.

Conclusions

Students with ADHD have substantially lower achievement in reading, writing, and numeracy. Writing was the most adversely affected domain. For example, in Year 9 students with ADHD were on average writing at a Year 5 level. Children and adolescents with ADHD need substantial support to manage inattention, impulsivity, and hyperactivity. Skilled remediation in literacy and numeracy is required throughout all school years.
Influence of sublimation transfer printing on alterations in the structural and physical properties of knitted fabrics
Authors: Stojanović Sandra , Geršak Jelka , Trajković Dušan , Ćirković Nenad
Published: December 2020

The influence of sublimation transfer printing on alteration of the structural and physical properties of knitted fabrics was investigated in this research study. Seven different knitted fabrics, which differed in terms of structure and raw material composition (polyester, cotton and cotton/polyester), were printed using the sublimation transfer technique. For the sublimation of cotton/polyester and cotton knitted fabrics, a coating powder was used for paper modification with the aim to bond reactive ink to the natural fibres. The influence of yarn parameters, pattern and the density of knitted fabrics on the degree of changes after the printing process was considered. Smaller changes in structural and physical properties were recorded for polyester knitted fabrics, while major changes in structure were observed in knitted fabrics containing cotton fibres, where were weight gain and reduction in geometrical roughness values. In addition, a significant change in density was recorded for polyester printed knitted fabrics. The parameters that influenced the colour difference results for polyester knitted fabrics were the yarn parameters and the pattern. Significantly high colour difference values were obtained for cotton (from 7.9 to 14.2) and cotton/polyester (from 8.5 to 14.4) knitted fabrics. The main reason for the high colour difference results was the alteration in the structure of the knitted fabrics.
Especially thin laser colonoscope enabled precutting endoscopic mucosal resection for proximal T1 cancer in a case of stenotic rectal cancer
Authors: Yoshida Naohisa , Inoue Ken , Dohi Osamu
Published: December 2020

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Moyamoya angiopathy and developmental abnormalities: a neurosurgical perspective
Authors: Loftus Christopher M
Published: December 2020

This commentary is on the original article by Serra et al. on pages 218‐225 of this issue.
Changes in dental hygiene students’ working posture following digital sound feedback
Authors: Sim Eun Bi , Park Bo Young , Lee Kyu Tae , Choi Eun Mi , Jeong Ju Hui , Yang Ji Hye , Moon Su Hyun , Noh Hie Jin
Published: December 2020

Introduction

This study aimed to observe changes in working posture by measuring the REBA (Rapid Entire Body Assessment) score of dental hygiene students according to digital sound feedback linked with a smartphone application.

Methods

This study was conducted on 28 fourth‐year dental hygiene students who received theoretical and practical training on dental posture in the second year and then practised on mannequins and patients for about four semesters. Periodontal instrumentation was performed freely by applying digital sound notification feedback for four weeks after baseline, 30 minutes per week. REBA was measured after performing periodic structure construction without providing digital sound notification feedback for the last 1‐2 minutes. Follow‐up was conducted the same way 2‐3 weeks after the intervention period.

Results

The REBA score for total, neck and trunk of all subjects showed statistically significant decreases post‐intervention compared with the baseline scores (total p < .001, neck p < .001 and trunk p = .042).

Conclusions

A digital sound feedback system was shown to be effective in encouraging correct working posture in dental hygiene students by helping them improve their REBA scores.
Temporal lobe epilepsy surgery in children and adults: A multicenter study
Authors: Barba Carmen , Cossu Massimo , Guerrini Renzo , Di Gennaro Giancarlo , Villani Flavio , De Palma Luca , Grisotto Laura , Consales Alessandro , Battaglia Domenica , Zamponi Nelia , d’Orio Piergiorgio , Revay Martina , Rizzi Michele , Casciato Sara , Esposito Vincenzo , Quarato Pier Paolo , Di Giacomo Roberta , Didato Giuseppe , Pastori Chiara , Pavia Giusy Carfi , Pellacani Simona , Matta Giulia , Pacetti Mattia , Tamburrini Gianpiero , Cesaroni Elisabetta , Colicchio Gabriella , Vatti Giampaolo , Asioli Sofia , Caulo Massimo ,   TLE Study Group, Marras Carlo Efisio , Tassi Laura
Published: December 2020

Objective

To assess seizure and cognitive outcomes and their predictors in children (<16 years at surgery) and adults undergoing temporal lobe epilepsy (TLE) surgery in eight Italian centers.

Methods

This is a retrospective multicenter study. We performed a descriptive analysis and subsequently carried out multivariable mixed‐effect models corrected for multiple comparisons.

Results

We analyzed data from 511 patients (114 children) and observed significant differences in several clinical features between adults and children. The possibility of achieving Engel class IA outcome and discontinuing antiepileptic drugs (AEDs) at last follow‐up (FU) was significantly higher in children (P = .006 and < .0001). However, percentages of children and adults in Engel class I at last FU (mean ± SD, 45.9 ± 17 months in children; 45.9 ± 20.6 months in adults) did not differ significantly. We identified different predictors of seizure outcome in children vs adults and at short‐ vs long‐term FU. The only variables consistently associated with class I outcome over time were postoperative electroencephalography (EEG) in adults (abnormal, improved,odds ratio [OR] = 0.414, P = .023, Q = 0.046 vs normal, at 2‐year FU and abnormal, improved, OR = 0.301, P = .001, Q = 0.002 vs normal, at last FU) and the completeness of resection of temporal magnetic resonance (MR) abnormalities other than hippocampal sclerosis in children (OR = 7.93, P = .001, Q = 0.003, at 2‐year FU and OR = 45.03, P < .0001, Q < 0.0001, at last FU). Cognitive outcome was best predicted by preoperative performances in either age group.

Significance

Clinical differences between adult and pediatric patients undergoing TLE surgery are reflected in differences in long‐term outcomes and predictors of failures. Children are more likely to achieve sustained seizure freedom and withdraw AEDs after TLE surgery. Earlier referral should be encouraged as it can improve surgical outcome.
Quantitative ion determination in eccrine sweat gland cells correlates to sweat reduction of antiperspirant actives
Authors: Welzel J. , Grüdl S. , Welss T. , Claas M. , Sättler A. , Förster T. , Banowski B.
Published: December 2020

Objective

Axillary wetness represents an unwanted effect of the physiologically vital sweating mechanism, especially when it becomes excessive. Cosmetic products reducing sweat secretion rely on aluminium salts as the active ingredient acting by physically blocking the sweat gland. Driven by the interest to better understand the sweat mechanism and to develop alternative technologies against excessive sweating a search for an effective testing approach started as up to now, cost‐ and time‐consuming in vivo studies represent the standard procedure for testing and identifying these alternatives.

Material and methods

The herein described in vitro test system is based on the measurement of intracellular changes of the ion equilibrium in cultured eccrine sweat gland cells. Subsequently, in vivo studies on the back of volunteers were conducted to verify the sweat‐reducing effect of in vitro newly discovered substance.

Results

In this study, we describe an effective cell‐based in vitro method as a potent tool for a more targeted screening of alternatives to aluminium salts. Testing the commonly used aluminium chlorohydrate as one example of an aluminium‐based active in this screening procedure, we discovered a distinct influence on the ion equilibrium: Intracellular levels of sodium ions were decreased while those of chloride increased. Screening of various substances revealed a polyethyleneimine, adjusted to pH 3.5 with hydrochloric acid, to evoke the same alterations in the ion equilibrium as aluminium chlorohydrate. Subsequent in vivo studies showed its substantial antiperspirant action and confirmed the high efficiency of the polyethyleneimine solution in vivo. Further, specific investigations connecting the chloride content of the tested substances with the resulting sweat reduction pointed towards a substantial impact of the chloride ions on sweating.

Conclusion

The newly described in vitro cell‐based screening method represents an effective means for identifying new antiperspirant actives and suggests an additional biological mechanism of action of sweat‐reducing ingredients which is directed towards unbalancing of the ion equilibrium inside eccrine sweat gland cells.
Expecting the unexpected: measures, outcomes and dying trajectories for expected and unexpected death in adults with intellectual disabilities in social care settings in the UK
Authors: Bernal Jane , Hunt Katherine , Worth Rhian , Shearn Julia , Jones Edwin , Lowe Kathy , Todd Stuart
Published: December 2020

Background

Considerable attention is rightly paid to preventable deaths in adults with intellectual disabilities. The pattern of these deaths and the implications for services have been less considered.

Method

This paper forms part of a larger cross‐sectional study of deaths in a defined population of adults with intellectual disabilities. Data from VOICES‐SF were obtained from intellectual disability service providers for each death within their supported population over 18 months, 149 decedents in all.

Results

Only 34.2% of deaths were anticipated, death was often sudden or followed a short illness. Four dying trajectories were identified, and categorized by length of illness, service use, care outcomes, symptom control and cause of death.

Conclusions

Recognition that most deaths in this group were unanticipated implies a need for better preparation for less expected dying and better anticipation. A descriptive epidemiology of dying among people with intellectual disabilities is needed.
Effect of compliance during periodontal maintenance therapy on c‐reactive protein levels: a 6‐year follow‐up
Authors: Costa Fernando Oliveira , Esteves Lima Rafael Paschoal , Cortelli Sheila Cavalca , Costa Adriana Moreira , Cortelli José Roberto , Cota Luís Otávio Miranda
Published: December 2020

Aims

To longitudinally evaluate the effects of compliance during periodontal maintenance therapy (PMT) on C‐reactive protein (CRP) levels and its relation to periodontal status.

Materials and Methods

A subsample comprising of 30 matched pairs was taken from a previous 6‐year longitudinal study under PMT. Pairs were composed of one regular (RC) and one irregular (IC) compliers, matched by age and sex. Periodontal parameters and plasma samples were collected at 3 times: T1[prior to active periodontal therapy (APT)], T2(after APT), and T3(after 6 years). CRP plasma levels were quantified using ELISA.

Results

RC presented better clinical periodontal status, lower recurrence of periodontitis (sites with PD ≥4 mm and CAL ≥3 mm, together with the persistence and/or presence of BOP and/or suppuration, during any of the subsequent recall evaluations) and significant reductions in CRP levels over time [(T1: RC = 3.64 ± 2.13 and IC = 3.92 ± 2.02 mg/L) and (T3: RC = 2.12 ± 1.39 mg/L and IC = 3.71 ± 1.82 mg/L)]. Logistic regression analysis demonstrated that individuals with periodontitis recurrence presented 2.19 higher chances of presenting altered CRP levels (values ≥3 mg/L‐ T2 to T3) than those without periodontitis recurrence (95%CI:1.16–3.27; p = 0.017).

Conclusions

Higher CRP plasma levels were associated with higher recurrence of periodontitis and worse clinical periodontal parameters among IC when compared to RC.
Current status of and factors influencing anxiety and depression in front‐line medical staff supporting Wuhan in containing the novel coronavirus pneumonia epidemic
Authors: Li Laiyou , Sun Ning , Fei Suding , Yu Libo , Chen Shuangqin , Yang Shuang , Li Hongyu
Published: December 2020

Aim

This research aimed to shed light on the relationship between the sociodemographic characteristics of front‐line medical workers and their anxiety and depression, to provide the basis and reference for targeted mental health education and for relevant departments to formulate appropriate policies during the COVID‐19 outbreak.

Methods

This study adopted a convenient sampling method and examined the psychological status of 150 front‐line medical workers from Zhejiang Province with questionnaire surveys using the Hamilton Anxiety and Depression Scale.

Results

The participants had severe anxiety and depression; the top three items under the category of anxiety were genitourinary symptoms, behavior at interview, and respiratory symptoms, whereas the top three items under depression were feelings of guilt, weight loss, and retardation. Among all personal data, the following factors influenced anxiety, in decreasing order: degree of suspicion of being infected when showing associated symptoms, degree of fear of yourself and your family being infected, and the affiliated hospital (p < .05). As for depression, the factors were the degree of suspicion of being infected when showing associated symptoms and the degree of fear of yourself and your family being infected (p < .05).

Conclusion

This study revealed that front‐line medical staff presented symptoms of anxiety and depression when dealing with the COVID‐19 outbreak and the factors influencing their psychological stress. Guiding policies and psychological interventions is crucial to maintaining their psychological well‐being. Different measures may be implemented to solve this problem.
Self‐realisation—What does this mean for school nurses to remain in nursing practice?
Authors: Mæland Linda Horne , Frøysland Oftedal Bjørg , Kristoffersen Margareth
Published: December 2020

Aims and objectives

To describe and interpret what it means for school nurses to realise themselves so that they remain in nursing practice.

Background

Self‐realisation seems to influence on nurses remaining in nursing practice. School nurses report aspects (i.e. autonomy and professional development) which can be linked to self‐realisation as important for themselves, but few studies describe what it means for school nurses to realise themselves so that they remain in practice.

Design and method

This study used a qualitative design, conducting two individual in‐depth interviews with 15 school nurses. The interviews were analysed with a phenomenological hermeneutic method. The COREQ checklist has been used in reporting this study.

Results

The following themes were emerged: (a) being attentive to yourself, (b) acting true to yourself and (c) making independent choices.

Conclusion

This study offers insight into what it means for school nurses to realise themselves so that they remain in nursing practice, that is to practise their originality and take a stand for what they consider important. Self‐realisation was embedded within nursing practice and consequently seems to impact on nurses remaining in practice.

Relevance to clinical practice

Nurses who practise their originality and take a stand for what they identify as important realise self. This implies being themselves and practising nursing in a way they find relevant. Nursing leaders who encourage nurses to articulate what this entails facilitate their self‐realisation. A clinical practice where nurses can be attentive and act true to themselves, and have opportunities to make independent choices, will be a practice where nurses can realise self. We suggest that clinical practice which emphasises opportunities for nurses' self‐realisation may facilitate their remaining in practice.
Staphylococcal scalded skin syndrome: An epidemiological and clinical review of 84 cases
Authors: Liy‐Wong Carmen , Pope Elena , Weinstein Miriam , Lara‐Corrales Irene
Published: December 2020

Background

Staphylococcal scalded skin syndrome (SSSS) is a toxin‐mediated, blistering skin disorder that mainly affects infants and children. There is limited literature regarding pediatric SSSS. The purpose of this study was to describe the epidemiology, clinical features, and management of pediatric SSSS.

Methods

Retrospective cohort study of pediatric patients with a clinical diagnosis of SSSS seen at the Hospital for Sick Children in Toronto, Ontario, Canada, from January 1994 to March 2016.

Results

We included 84 patients with a clinical diagnosis of SSSS; 49/84 (58%) were male. Mean age of diagnosis was 3.1 ± 2.4 years. All patients presented with erythema and exfoliation, while 64/84 (76%) presented with vesicles/ bullae. Skin tenderness was the most common symptom, present in 68/84 (81%) subjects. Staphylococcus aureus was more commonly isolated from periorificial cultures than from bullae. Mean hospitalization was 4.7 ± 2.3 days. No difference was found in admission duration between children receiving clindamycin and those that did not (3.6 ± 2.2 vs 3.9 ± 2.34 days, P = .63). Skin debridement was the only risk factor leading to more complications and prolonged hospitalization (P = .03). Severe complications were seen in 4 (5%) cases, and no fatalities were observed.

Conclusions

Healthcare providers should be aware of SSSS and consider it in the differential diagnosis of infants and children with new onset erythema, exfoliation, and/or vesiculation. Suspected culprit pathogens were more often obtained from periorificial swabs; however, these isolates were not tested for exfoliative toxin to confirm causality. Antibiotic treatment should be guided by sensitivity testing. Addition of clindamycin as an anti‐toxin agent had no effect on the duration of hospitalization, and this should be further investigated. Surgical debridement of the skin in patients with SSSS should be discouraged.
Detection of calcified atheromas on panoramic radiographs of cirrhotic patients
Authors: Marinho Gabriella Bueno , Tenório Jefferson Rocha , Munhoz Luciana , Andrade Natália Silva , Arita Emiko Saito , Ortega Karem L.
Published: December 2020

Background

The present study aimed to investigate the prevalence of calcified atheromas in carotid arteries (CACA) on panoramic radiographs of patients with liver cirrhosis (LC).

Methods and results

A case‐control study of 67 individuals with LC (case group) and 67 healthy individuals (control group), matched by gender and age, was performed. In addition to demographic information, data on LC were also collected for the case group. Panoramic radiographs were evaluated by two previously calibrated examiners. The sample consisted predominantly of male individuals (n = 50; 74.62%), with mean age of 55 years old. In the case group, the mean value for the model of end‐stage liver disease was 16, and the major aetiology of LC was alcoholism (n = 26; 38.8%). Thirteen (19.4%) LC patients had CACA, whereas only four (5.9%) healthy patients had this condition. LC patients are 3.72 times more likely to have CACA compared to healthy individuals (P = .02). The presence of nephropathies increases the risk of development of atheromas by 18.58 times in cirrhotic individuals (P = .04).

Conclusions

Cirrhotic patients are more likely to have CACA compared to healthy patients, and this risk increases significantly when kidney disease is involved.
The application of an expert knowledge‐driven approach for assessing gully erosion susceptibility in the subtropical Nigerian savannah
Authors: Gideon Didams , Mustafa Firuza Begham , Victor Idakwo
Published: December 2020

This study assessed gully erosion susceptibility in Southern Gombe State, Nigeria. The objectives of the study were to: (1) prepare gully inventory of Southern Gombe State, (2) apply the Analytical Hierarchy Process to assess the contribution of gully erosion predisposing factors, and (3) produce a gully erosion susceptibility map of Southern Gombe State. Based on geomorphological study involving interpretation of Google Earth images and field surveys, 127 gullies were identified and 13 gully erosion predisposing factors assumed to influence gully erosion susceptibility were selected. Identified gullies were randomly split into training (89 or 70 per cent) and validation (38 or 30 per cent) datasets. The contribution of each gully erosion predisposing factor was obtained using the Analytical Hierarchy Process. The results indicated that slope (0.130), stream density (0.121), and distance from stream (0.121) play crucial roles in gully erosion susceptibility. By overlaying the gully erosion susceptibility factor maps, a gully erosion susceptibility map was created. A natural break method was then used to classify gully erosion areas into relatively safe (6.04 km2), less susceptible (3332.46 km2), moderately susceptible (1811.49 km2), highly susceptible (1146.35 km2), and extremely susceptible (1726.77 km2) categories. Field verification confirmed that the map accurately classified 92.11 per cent of the validation datasets, signifying the Analytical Hierarchy Process as a reliable method for gully erosion susceptibility assessment. The created gully erosion susceptibility map can assist land planners to identify critical gully erosion areas where prevention and mitigation actions should be implemented.
Metal contamination of agricultural soils amended with biosolids (sewage sludge) at a ceramic production area in NE Spain: A 10‐year resampling period
Authors: Jordán‐Vidal Manuel Miguel , Montero‐Martínez María Adriana , García‐Sánchez Ernesto , Martinez‐Poveda África
Published: December 2020

Heavy metals in ecosystems affect human health through the web chain. Castellon Province is home to the largest ceramic production hub in Spain, with 94% of the country's total production. Agricultural soils in the vicinity of the ceramic hub were reported to contain potentially toxic elements (Pb, Cr, Ni and Cd) in 2008 and have since been subject to repeated amendment with biosolids (sewage sludge). The sample sites were revisited in 2019, and the chemical distribution of these metals reassessed. The distribution of heavy chemical forms was analysed using a sequential extraction protocol that fractionates these four heavy metals into five phases. The incorporation of biosolids for the past 10 years has changed the chemistry of the soil, leading to increased levels of some hazardous elements. The carbonate‐sorbed, residual and reducible phases were dominant. From the point of view of compliance with regulations, levels of Cd remained elevated and have increased over the 10‐year period.
The coverage of influenza and pneumococcal vaccination among kidney transplant recipients and waiting list patients: A cross‐sectional survey in Denmark
Authors: Larsen Lykke , Bistrup Claus , Sørensen Søren Schwartz , Boesby Lene , Nguyen Mai Thanh Thuy , Johansen Isik Somuncu
Published: December 2020

Background

To characterize level and predictors of influenza and pneumococcal vaccine uptake among Danish kidney transplant recipients (KTR) and kidney transplant waiting list patients (WLP).

Methods

A cross‐sectional survey based on self‐reported vaccine uptake including WLP and KTR ≤ 1½ years post transplantation. Descriptive statistics and logistic regression analyses identifying factors associated with influenza vaccine uptake in the latest season were performed.

Results

A total of 220 participants were included in the study, 54% KTR and 46% WLP. Self‐reported influenza vaccine uptake in the latest season was overall 41.8%. Uptake of influenza vaccine on any prior season apart from the latest season was 53.2% and significantly higher among WLP than KTR (P = .007). Pneumococcal vaccine uptake was only 4% overall.

The only factor positively associated with influenza vaccine uptake in the latest season was any prior influenza vaccine uptake (OR 5.79, CI95 2.44‐13.76) (P < .001). Recommendations given by other persons (non‐physician) were negatively associated with receiving the influenza vaccination in the latest season (OR 0.34, CI95 0.13‐0.92) (P = .03). Reasons for not being vaccinated were primarily lack of information, perception of own good health, and fear of adverse reactions.

Conclusions

Influenza and pneumococcal vaccine uptakes were suboptimal among Danish WLP and KTR. Increased awareness about guidelines and physicians´ education are warranted.
Rewired phenolic metabolism and improved saccharification efficiency of a Zea mays cinnamyl alcohol dehydrogenase 2 (zmcad2) mutant
Authors: Liu Xinyu , Van Acker Rebecca , Voorend Wannes , Pallidis Andreas , Goeminne Geert , Pollier Jacob , Morreel Kris , Kim Hoon , Muylle Hilde , Bosio Mickael , Ralph John , Vanholme Ruben , Boerjan Wout
Published: December 2020

Lignocellulosic biomass is an abundant byproduct from cereal crops that can potentially be valorized as a feedstock to produce biomaterials. Zea mays CINNAMYL ALCOHOL DEHYDROGENASE 2 (ZmCAD2) is involved in lignification, and is a promising target to improve the cellulose‐to‐glucose conversion of maize stover. Here, we analyzed a field‐grown zmcad2 Mutator transposon insertional mutant. Zmcad2 mutant plants had an 18% lower Klason lignin content, whereas their cellulose content was similar to that of control lines. The lignin in zmcad2 mutants contained increased levels of hydroxycinnamaldehydes, i.e. the substrates of ZmCAD2, ferulic acid and tricin. Ferulates decorating hemicelluloses were not altered. Phenolic profiling further revealed that hydroxycinnamaldehydes are partly converted into (dihydro)ferulic acid and sinapic acid and their derivatives in zmcad2 mutants. Syringyl lactic acid hexoside, a metabolic sink in CAD‐deficient dicot trees, appeared not to be a sink in zmcad2 maize. The enzymatic cellulose‐to‐glucose conversion efficiency was determined after 10 different thermochemical pre‐treatments. Zmcad2 yielded significantly higher conversions compared with controls for almost every pre‐treatment. However, the relative increase in glucose yields after alkaline pre‐treatment was not higher than the relative increase when no pre‐treatment was applied, suggesting that the positive effect of the incorporation of hydroxycinnamaldehydes was leveled off by the negative effect of reduced p‐coumarate levels in the cell wall. Taken together, our results reveal how phenolic metabolism is affected in CAD‐deficient maize, and further support mutating CAD genes in cereal crops as a promising strategy to improve lignocellulosic biomass for sugar‐platform biorefineries.
Territorio, planeación y políticas públicas: variaciones sobre un trinomio imperfecto
Authors: Jolly Jean-François , Monnet Jérôme , Dangond Gibsone Claudia , Bejarano Mayorga Catalina , Martínez Carvajal Jorge Enrique , Roa Bernal Luisa Paola , Farelo Guerra José Luis , Arias Sánchez Marlon , Gómez Puentes Sabina
Published: December 2020

Territorio, planeación y políticas públicas: variaciones sobre un trinomio imperfecto trata sobre el tema de las intrincadas relaciones de este trinomio imperfecto, para responder a la pregunta del profesor Jérôme Monnet, geógrafo y urbanista inspirador del libro, de en qué medida el territorio es un medio o un producto de la acción pública. Para esto, cada autor plantea el problema y formula propuestas híbridas sobre las lógicas, la organización de los actores y el espacio, a partir de las perspectivas de las ciencias políticas y administrativas, de la geografía y del ordenamiento territorial. El libro presenta algunas variaciones sobre este tema, las cuales conforman una gran caja de herramientas conceptuales, analíticas e instrumentales. Este trabajo es de creación artística conceptual más que de investigación científica, que obedece a un proceso de construcción de conocimiento “en bucle” del grupo de investigación de Políticas Urbanas, común a las facultades de Ciencias Políticas y Relaciones Internacionales y de Arquitectura y Diseño de la Pontificia Universidad Javeriana.
Influence of Dietary Nitrate Supplementation on High-Intensity Intermittent Running Performance at Different Doses of Normobaric Hypoxia in Endurance-Trained Males
Authors: Robinson George P. , Killer Sophie C. , Stoyanov Zdravko , Stephens Harri , Read Luke , James Lewis J. , Bailey Stephen J.
Published: December 2020

This study investigated whether supplementation with nitrate-rich beetroot juice (BR) can improve high-intensity intermittent running performance in trained males in normoxia and different doses of normobaric hypoxia. Eight endurance-trained males (, 62 ± 6 ml·kg−1·min−1) completed repeated 90 s intervals at 110% of peak treadmill velocity, from an initial step incremental test, interspersed by 60 s of passive recovery until exhaustion (Tlim). Participants completed the first three experimental trials during days 3, 5, and 7 of BR or nitrate-depleted beetroot juice (PLA) supplementation and completed the remaining experimental visits on the alternative supplement following at least 7 days of washout. The fraction of inspired oxygen during visits 1–3 was either 0.209, 0.182, or 0.157, equivalent to an altitude of 0, 1,200, and 2,400 m, respectively, and this order was replicated on visits 4–6. Arterial oxygen saturation declined dose dependently as fraction of inspired oxygen was lowered (p < .05). Plasma nitrite concentration was higher pre- and postexercise after BR compared with PLA supplementation (p < .05). There was no difference in Tlim between PLA and BR at 0 m (445 [324, 508] and 410 [368, 548] s); 1,200 m (341 [270, 390] and 332 [314, 356] s); or 2,400 m (233 [177, 373] and 251 [221, 323] s) (median and [interquartile range]; p > .05). The findings from this study suggest that short-term BR supplementation does not improve high-intensity intermittent running performance in endurance-trained males in normoxia or at doses of normobaric hypoxia that correspond to altitudes at which athletes typically train while on altitude training camps.
Gain-of-Function Mutations in Acid Stress Response (evgS) Protect Escherichia coli from Killing by Gallium Nitrate, an Antimicrobial Candidate
Authors: Zeng Jie , Wu Liwen , Liu Zhou , Lv Yihua , Feng Jinzhi , Wang Weijie , Xue Yunxin , Wang Dai , Li Jiabin , Drlica Karl , Zhao Xilin
Published: December 2020

Widespread antimicrobial resistance encourages repurposing/refining of nonantimicrobial drugs for antimicrobial indications. Gallium nitrate (GaNt), an FDA-approved medication for cancer-related hypercalcemia, recently showed good activity against several clinically significant bacteria.
Oldest preserved sodium carbonate evaporite: Late Paleozoic Fengcheng Formation, Junggar Basin, NW China
Authors: Wang Tingting , Cao Jian , Carroll Alan R. , Zhi Dongming , Tang Yong , Wang Xulong , Li Yuwen
Published: December 2020

Sodium carbonate evaporites can provide important paleoclimatic constraints and economic resources but are relatively rare; most known examples are limited to the Cenozoic. The first known late Paleozoic occurrence was recently reported from the Fengcheng Formation in the northwestern Junggar Basin, NW China. However, its mineralogy, age, and geologic setting have been sparsely documented. To help establish a broader understanding of the formation of these important deposits, this paper presents a comprehensive new data set that includes drill core, well logs, petrographic analyses, X-ray diffraction data, organic geochemistry (biomarkers), and U-Pb zircon age data. Evaporite deposition is estimated to have occurred between ca. 305 Ma and 296 Ma in a series of extensional grabens that hosted a stratified, hypersaline lake (or lakes). The lake deposits are closely associated with coeval volcanic rocks, suggesting that subsurface interaction of these with CO2-enriched hydrothermal fluids may have contributed to the excess alkalinity required to precipitate Na-carbonate. Trona (NaHCO3 · Na2CO3 · 2H2O) in the Fengcheng Formation was likely formed syndepositionally and then partly replaced by wegscheiderite (Na2CO3 · 3NaHCO3). Other evaporite minerals most likely formed during diagenesis. The Fengcheng Formation also contains nahcolite (NaHCO3), which requires pCO2 >680 ppm to form, although no textural evidence was found to demonstrate a primary origin. The presence of extensive lacustrine evaporites nonetheless reflects a relatively warm and arid climate at ∼40–50°N that apparently coincided with the late Paleozoic icehouse.
Supplemental Material: Mechanical contrast and asymmetric distribution of crustal deformation across plate boundaries: Insights from the northern Dead Sea fault system
Authors: Dembo Neta , al. et
Published: December 2020

Summary of the paleomagnetic data and a detailed description of the model setup.