Neighborhood-scale lead (Pb) speciation in Akron, Ohio (USA) soils: primary sources, post-deposition diagenesis, and high concentrations of labile Pb

Lead (Pb) poses a significant risk to infants and children through exposure to contaminated soil and dust. However, there is a lack of information on Pb speciation and distribution at the neighborhood-scale. This work aimed to determine: (1) the distribution of acid-extractable (labile) Pb and other metals ([M]AE) in two neighborhoods in Akron, Ohio (USA) (Summit Lake and West Akron; n = 82 samples); and (2) Pb speciation and potential sources. Total metal concentration ([M]T) and [M]AE was strongly correlated for Pb and Zn (R2 of 0.66 and 0.55, respectively), corresponding to 35% and 33% acid-extractability. Lead and Zn exhibited a strong positive correlation with each other (R2 = 0.56 for MT and 0.68 for MAE). Three types of Pb-bearing phases were observed by electron microscopy: (1) galena (PbS)-like (5-10 μm); (2) paint chip residuals (10-20 μm); and (3) Pb-bearing Fe-oxides (20 μm). Isotope ratio values for PbAE were 1.159 to 1.245 for 206Pb/207Pb, and 1.999 to 2.098 for 208Pb/206Pb, and there was a statistically significant difference between the two neighborhoods (p = 0.010 for 206Pb/207Pb and p = 0.009 for 208Pb/206Pb). Paint and petrol are the dominant sources of Pb, with some from coal and fly ash. Lead speciation and distribution is variable and reflects a complex relationship between the input of primary sources and post-deposition transformations. This work highlights the importance of community science collaborations to expand the reach of soil sampling and establish areas most at risk based on neighborhood-dependent Pb speciation and distribution for targeted remediation.

Early Prelicensure Nursing Students' Perceptions of Case Studies Through the Lens of the Clinical Judgment Measurement Model

BACKGROUND

Research indicates new nursing graduates struggle with clinical reasoning, despite some related skill development throughout their education. The question remains, "Could an earlier focus on clinical reasoning in nursing programs enhance nursing students' clinical reasoning?"

PURPOSE

This pilot study investigated how first-semester nursing students perceive the use of case studies in clinical reasoning skill development and the perceived benefits of case studies related to the NCSBN Clinical Judgment Measurement Model (NCJMM).

METHODS

Case studies and written reflections were introduced to a convenience sample (n = 45) of first-semester nursing students. Qualitative analysis was conducted on written reflections.

RESULTS

Students found case studies enhanced their knowledge and prepared them for clinical practice as a nurse.

CONCLUSIONS

Findings suggest early introduction of case studies is a meaningful teaching strategy to develop clinical reasoning aligned with the NCJMM.