bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Increased lipoxygenase and decreased cytochrome P450s metabolites correlated with the incidence of diabetic nephropathy: Potential role of eicosanoids from metabolomics in type 2 diabetic patients
Authors: Peng Liyuan , Sun Bei , Liu Yajin , Huang Jing , Chen Guangzhi , Zhang Xu , Chen Chen , Wang Daowen , Wang Gang
Published: February 2021

Diabetic nephropathy (DN) is the major cause of chronic kidney disease and end‐stage renal disease. Previous studies have demonstrated that long­chain omega­3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) might have therapeutic potential in reducing proteinuria in DN. However, the local level of eicosanoids derived from PUFAs in the plasma of DN patients remains unclear. This work aims to study the eicosanoid profile difference in plasma of DN patients and type 2 diabetes (T2D) without DN. A total of 27 T2D patients with similar diabetic duration were recruited and divided into T2D+DN group and T2D+NDN (non‐DN) group based on urinary albumin excretion (UAE) detection. Using LC–MS/MS‐based metabolomics, DN patients showed increased level of lipoxygenase (LOX) metabolites (5‐HETE and LTB4) and decreased levels of eicosanoids derived according to the cytochrome P450s (CYP450) metabolic pathway (5,6‐DHET; 14,15‐DHET and 9,10‐diHOME). Receiver operating characteristics and logistic regression analysis revealed increased level LOX metabolites and decreased level of CYP450 metabolites were significantly correlated with the incidence of DN in T2D patients. LOX and CYP450 metabolites correlated with DN incidence in T2D patients, which might be treatment targets for DN in T2D patients.
Changes in stable nitrogen isotopes of plants, bulk soil and soil dissolved N during ecosystem retrogression in boreal forest
Authors: Hyodo Fujio , Takebayashi Yu , Makabe Akiko , Wardle David A. , Koba Keisuke
Published: February 2021

Stable nitrogen isotope ratios (δ15N) of plants and soil have been used to study changes in the N cycle during ecosystem succession and retrogression. However, little is known about how δ15N of soil mineral N and dissolved organic N (DON) change during retrogression, despite their potential to inform on processes contributing to N loss. Here, we examined the δ15N of NH4+ and DON together with δ15N of the dominant plant species and bulk soil across a 5,000‐year‐old retrogressive chronosequence of forested islands in northern Sweden. The δ15N of bulk soil N, NH4+ and DON did not change greatly during retrogression, suggesting that there are no major losses of N from the system. The δ15N of NH4+ and DON was significantly correlated with that of bulk soil N across islands, indicating that bulk soil N is an important determinant of the δ15N of dissolved soil N. The δ15N of DON was significantly higher than those of NH4+ and bulk soil N, probably because of the inclusion of microbial N to the DON fraction. Despite the lack of changes in δ15N of soil N as retrogression proceeded, the δ15N of most plant species increased. These results suggest that despite the relative importance of the three underlying mechanisms involved is unclear, the N resources of plants change in response to retrogression: they have an increasing reliance on DON, a decreasing dependence on N transferred from the mycorrhizal fungi and reduced reliance on N from surface soil layers as retrogression proceeds.
Social Networks and the Informational Role of Financial Advisory Firms Centrality in Mergers and Acquisitions
Authors: Chaudhry Amna Noor , Kontonikas Alexandros , Vagenas‐Nanos Evangelos
Published: February 2021

This paper examines the role of the social network hierarchy of financial advisory firms in a mergers and acquisitions (M&As) framework. Financial advisors are information intermediaries who play an information extraction and information dissemination role. The more central the advisory firm is within the network of advisory firms, the greater their access to information flows. Our findings indicate that more central advisors are associated with higher acquirer announcement abnormal returns, higher abnormal combined returns and higher operating long‐run performance for the new entity. Central advisors also mitigate information asymmetries, resulting in lower premium paid by bidders. In return, more central advisory firms demand higher advisory fees, engage in higher M&A activity and are more likely to advise large acquirers and acquisitions of large and public deals. Our results are robust to endogeneity and self‐selection concerns.
Deal or No Deal? Modelling the Impact of Brexit Uncertainty on UK Private Equity Activity
Authors: Kellard Neil M. , Kontonikas Alexandros , Lamla Michael , Maiani Stefano
Published: February 2021

Given uncertainty in policy, particularly around Brexit, how do private equity (PE) firms investing in the UK behave? Analysing their response is vital for understanding the impact on investment per se and designing policy that limits uncertainty. Building on the recent work of Mike Wright and co‐authors, we explore the effect of uncertainty measures on UK PE activity and the channels that transmit uncertainty to the PE market. After developing hypotheses that link the ‘PE activity and uncertainty’ relation via a real options, interim risk or moral hazard channel, we employ a novel dataset on PE targets and non‐targets over the 2010–2019 period. We find that uncertainty, especially new measures closely aligned to Brexit, have negatively affected PE activity in the UK. Moreover, the transmission of such uncertainty occurs primarily through the real options channel and through greater uncertainty arising from prolonged interim periods of PE deals (i.e. the interim risk channel). Our results imply that the present and ongoing uncertainty in Brexit policy will continue to depress PE activity and by extension, investment and growth in the UK. Policymakers are urged to resolve such uncertainties.
A distinction of cow and buffalo ghee using principal component analysis of triglyceride composition
Authors: Pathania Parul , Sharma Vivek , Rao Priyanka Singh , Arora Sumit , Panjagari Narender Raju
Published: February 2021

Triglyceride (TG) profiling was explored to distinguish cow ghee from buffalo ghee to check their admixing. Cow and buffalo butter was clarified at 110, 130 and 150 °C to obtain ghee. Temperature of clarification did not show any significant effect on TG profile. Cow ghee showed maxima at TG C38 and C52. Buffalo ghee exhibited maxima at C38 and C50 unlike cow ghee. Cow ghee samples showed a higher TG content of C42 to C54, whereas buffalo ghee samples were associated with a greater content of C26 to C38. Principal component analysis (PCA) and hierarchical clustering showed two ghee types as distinct separate clusters.
Strategic Director Appointments
Authors: DRYMIOTES GEORGE , SIVARAMAKRISHNAN KONDURU
Published: February 2021

Recent corporate governance scandals have been attributed to a lack of board independence because of the influence CEOs have over their boards. However, CEOs can also affect board efficacy without compromising its independence by strategically choosing directors. We offer a theoretical framework to examine how CEOs can strategically choose director characteristics (such as expertise and skill set) to influence the inner workings of the board. We examine how director expertise affects the board's equilibrium voting strategies and show that some “passivity” on the part of directors can in fact be desirable equilibrium behavior. More importantly, we show that managers can strategically appoint independent outside directors to influence board voting in their favor. Surprisingly, contrary to what we might expect, we find that opportunistic (principled) managers may not always appoint the least (most) able directors to the board. We also examine whether CEOs would prefer a “captured” board (i.e., an insider‐dominated board) and show that the value of director input (i.e., the board's advising role) and the financial markets can discourage CEOs from pursuing such appointments.
Reviewing the world's edible mushroom species: A new evidence‐based classification system
Authors: Li Huili , Tian Yang , Menolli Nelson , Ye Lei , Karunarathna Samantha C. , Perez‐Moreno Jesus , Rahman Mohammad Mahmudur , Rashid Md Harunur , Phengsintham Pheng , Rizal Leela , Kasuya Taiga , Lim Young Woon , Dutta Arun Kumar , Khalid Abdul Nasir , Huyen Le Thanh , Balolong Marilen Parungao , Baruah Gautam , Madawala Sumedha , Thongklang Naritsada , Hyde Kevin D. , Kirk Paul M. , Xu Jianchu , Sheng Jun , Boa Eric , Mortimer Peter E.
Published: February 2021

Wild mushrooms are a vital source of income and nutrition for many poor communities and of value to recreational foragers. Literature relating to the edibility of mushroom species continues to expand, driven by an increasing demand for wild mushrooms, a wider interest in foraging, and the study of traditional foods. Although numerous case reports have been published on edible mushrooms, doubt and confusion persist regarding which species are safe and suitable to consume. Case reports often differ, and the evidence supporting the stated properties of mushrooms can be incomplete or ambiguous. The need for greater clarity on edible species is further underlined by increases in mushroom‐related poisonings. We propose a system for categorizing mushroom species and assigning a final edibility status. Using this system, we reviewed 2,786 mushroom species from 99 countries, accessing 9,783 case reports, from over 1,100 sources. We identified 2,189 edible species, of which 2,006 can be consumed safely, and a further 183 species which required some form of pretreatment prior to safe consumption or were associated with allergic reactions by some. We identified 471 species of uncertain edibility because of missing or incomplete evidence of consumption, and 76 unconfirmed species because of unresolved, differing opinions on edibility and toxicity. This is the most comprehensive list of edible mushrooms available to date, demonstrating the huge number of mushrooms species consumed. Our review highlights the need for further information on uncertain and clash species, and the need to present evidence in a clear, unambiguous, and consistent manner.
The iron content of healthy diets for one day for breastfed babies and young children
Authors: Leonard Dympna , Buettner Petra , McDermott Robyn , Makrides Maria
Published: February 2021

Aims

Early childhood anaemia due to iron deficiency is widespread in remote communities across northern Australia. Current recommendations for healthy food to complement breastfeeding at age 6 to 23 months include iron‐rich and iron‐enriched foods. An electronic nutrient analysis was undertaken to assess the iron content of hypothetical healthy diets for breastfed babies and young children aged 6 to 23 months in Australia, in comparison with their estimated requirements.

Methods

Hypothetical diets for 1 day were developed that were consistent with the Foundation Diets for breastfed infants 6 to 12 months and for toddlers 13 to 23 months. Nutrient content was derived using the Australian Food Composition database in FoodWorks 10. The iron content of these two diets were compared with Estimated Average Requirements (EARs) and Recommended Dietary Intakes (RDIs) for iron for infants aged 7 to 12 months and children aged 1 to 3 years.

Results

The iron content of the hypothetical diet for breastfed infants aged 6 to 12 months (5.8 mg) was less than the EAR (7 mg, 83%) and the RDI (11 mg, 53%). For young breastfed children aged 13 to 23 months, the iron content of the hypothetical diet was 4.4 mg; above the EAR (4 mg, 110%) but less than RDI (9 mg, 49%).

Conclusions

Breastfeeding has health and neurodevelopmental benefits for infants and young children that are particularly important in remote Australia where food insecurity and poor nutrition compromise health and wellbeing. Adequate iron intake is also important for neurodevelopment in early life but healthy diets for breastfed babies and young children may have insufficient iron content to meet requirements. The upcoming revision of the Australian Dietary Guidelines provides an opportunity to consider this issue.
Gonadal development and biochemical composition of Chinese mitten crabs (Eriocheir sinensis) from four sources
Authors: Wang Shihui , Wang YingZe , Wu Xugan , Zhang Xubin , Zhao Jinshan , Yang Jingming , Cheng Yongxu
Published: February 2021

The gonadal development; edible tissue ratio; and proximate, fatty acid, and free amino acid composition were examined and compared among Eriocheir sinensis samples from four sources. The gonadosomatic index (GSI) of Heilongjiang (HLJ) crabs was significantly higher than that of the other crabs from September to October (P < 0.05). Of all the edible tissues of E. sinensis, HLJ crab had the highest linolenic acid (18:3n3, LNA) and arachidonic acid (20:4n6, ARA) contents (P < 0.05), while Qinghai (QH) crab had the highest eicosapentaenoic acid (20:5n3, EPA) content (P < 0.05). The highest docosahexaenoic acid (22:6n3, DHA) and DHA/EPA contents were observed in Shandong (SD) crabs (P < 0.05), and the highest linoleic acid (18:2n6, LA) content was found in Shanghai (SH) crabs (P < 0.05). In conclusion, E. sinensis inhabiting relatively low‐temperature regions (northern China) can initiate gonadal development earlier, and the quality of E. sinensis living in paddies and lakes is better than that of crabs living in ponds.
Occurrence and dietary exposure assessment of pentachlorophenol in livestock, poultry, and aquatic foods marketed in Guangdong Province, China: Based on food monitoring data from 2015 to 2018
Authors: Zhou Quan , Wu Wei‐Liang , Lin Chang‐Qin , Liang Hui , Long Chao‐Yang , Lv Fen , Pan Jia‐Liang , Liu Zhi‐Ting , Wang Bo‐Yuan , Yang Xing‐Fen , Deng Xiao‐Ling , Jiang Ai‐Min
Published: February 2021

As a persistent organic pollutant, pentachlorophenol (PCP) has serious impacts on human health. However, its presence in animal source food products sold in the Guangdong Province (GD) of China, and the resultant dietary exposure have not been elucidated. To address this gap, 3,100 samples from seven food categories, including beef, pork, mutton, offals, broilers, hen eggs, and farmed freshwater fish, marketed throughout four geographical regions of GD, were collected from 2015 to 2018. Gas chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry was employed to detect PCP levels in these food matrices. PCP was found in all food categories, but the average contamination levels were low, ranging from 0.40 µg/kg wet weight (ww) (hen eggs) to 5.85 µg/kg ww (offals). However, higher concentrations of PCP were detected (P < 0.05) in animal source food from the North region. Additionally, a temporal declining trend was observed in this four‐year consecutive survey. The estimated human dietary exposure of PCP to population groups, including the general population and subgroups (male and female, children, and adults), was found to be far below the permissible daily intake (3 µg/kg body weight). Therefore, the health impacts of PCP should be correspondingly low for local residents, based on current toxicological knowledge. Regional exposure patterns varied due to different extents of contamination in the four areas, and pork, broilers, and freshwater fish were the major sources of dietary PCP exposure.

Practical Application

As a persistent organic pollutant, pentachlorophenol (PCP) has serious impacts on human health. However, its presence in animal source food products sold in Guangdong Province of China, and the resultant dietary exposure have not been elucidated. In this study, we conducted an in‐depth investigation on the occurrence of PCP in major foodstuff categories, including beef, pork, mutton, broilers, offals, hen eggs, and farmed freshwater fish, marketed in all 21 prefecture‐level divisions of Guangdong Province, in order to provide integral insights for regulatory authorities.
Virtual, Augmented and Mixed Reality: What are the Benefits for SMEs?
Authors: Amuso Valentina , Poletti Giuliano , Montibello Donato
Published: February 2021

Extended reality (XR) has the potential to be a game‐changer for SMEs. It can enhance competitiveness while supporting sustainable development and labour safety. The outbreak of COVID‐19 has further forced businesses to reflect on how technology might spur creativity and how innovation can affect their future survival. XR can facilitate product development, training, marketing and problem‐solving. We argue that policy should focus on increasing XR awareness in SMEs. Diffusion of XR is also contingent on R&D teams’ ability to exploit cultural assets to allow SMEs to take full advantage of their potential.
Delayed onset of mediastinitis with tracheomediastinal fistula following endobronchial ultrasound‐guided transbronchial needle aspiration; A case report
Authors: Jang Jong Geol , Ahn June Hong , Lee Seok Soo
Published: February 2021

Infectious complications after endobronchial ultrasound‐guided transbronchial needle aspiration (EBUS‐TBNA) are rare but serious. Here, we report a very rare case of delayed onset of mediastinitis with tracheomediastinal fistula after EBUS‐TBNA. Surgical debridement was performed, antibiotics were administered, and the postoperative course of the patient was good. Careful monitoring is needed to prevent the possible development of infectious complications after EBUS‐TBNA.
Natural history note: Urban domestic gardens support nesting populations of the native bee Leioproctus (Leioproctus) plumosus
Authors: Prendergast Kit S.
Published: February 2021

The nesting habits of many Australian native bees are poorly known, with observations of nests being few and far in between. Here, I report three independent nesting aggregations of a native colletid bee Leioproctus (Leioproctus) plumosus, accompanied by videos of its nesting behaviour and photographs of its nesting substrate. These discoveries were made possible through the citizen science group ‘Bees in the burbs’. Despite extensive surveys in the region, the only nesting occurrences of L. plumosus have been found in domestic gardens, all in highly urbanised areas. With this species more frequently encountered in residential gardens, this suggests that despite evidence of ground‐nesting bees being relatively disadvantaged by urban development due to replacement of bare ground with impervious surfaces, this species is able to still use residential areas for nesting. I propose potential explanations for this phenomenon, which includes new observations of commonly foraging on Callistemon – a popular tree in gardens and on nature strips. That this native bee’s nests appear to be associated with residential gardens provides both opportunities to engage citizen scientists in documenting and preserving native bee populations, but also indicates the threat ongoing urban development may pose.
Gene Editing Versus Genetic Modification in the Research and Development of New Crop Traits: An Economic Comparison
Authors: Bullock David W. , Wilson William W. , Neadeau Joseph
Published: February 2021

Gene editing is a relatively new plant‐breeding tool that, unlike earlier methods such as genetic modification, is more precise in targeting its manipulations to site‐specific locations within the genome. This precision with gene editing offers considerable research and development cost economies and a higher probability of success, particularly for the initial discovery phase of research and development. This study quantifies the advantages of gene editing versus genetic modification by examining the minimum required planted area for a proposed trait where a typical crop technology company can expect to break even on its research and development investment using a real option valuation model. A novel feature of the model is the combination of a decision tree with a binomial lattice for project valuation with an embedded abandonment real option. A primary numerical result from the model was the observation that gene editing required a much smaller potential market area (96% smaller) to break even on the financial investment when compared to genetic modification for the same trait value per acre. This result held across a wide range of potential trait values. Sensitivity analysis on the results indicated that the much higher probability of success for gene editing in the discovery phase of research and development was the primary driver of the difference in break‐even acreage.
Research in the retirement village community—The problems of recruiting a representative cohort of residents in Auckland, New Zealand
Authors: Joseph Connolly Martin , Hikaka Joanna , Bloomfield Katherine , Broad Joanna , Wu Zhenqiang , Boyd Michal , Peri Kathy , Calvert Cheryl , Tatton Annie , Higgins Ann‐Marie , Bramley Dale
Published: February 2021

Objectives

Retirement villages are semi‐closed communities, access usually being gained via village managers. This paper explores issues recruiting a representative resident cohort, as background to a study of residents, to acquire sociodemographic, health and disability data and trial an intervention designed to improve outcomes.

Methods

We planned approaching all Auckland/Waitematā District villages and, via managers, contacting residents (‘letter‐drop’; ‘door‐knocks’). In ‘small’ villages (n ≤ 60 units), we planned contacting all residents, randomly selecting in ‘larger’ villages. We excluded those with doubtful or absent legal capacity.

Results

We approached managers of 53 of 65 villages. Thirty‐four permitted recruitment. Some prohibited ‘letter‐drops’ and/or ‘door‐knocks’. Hence, we recruited volunteers (23 villages) via meetings, posters, newsletters and word‐of‐mouth, that is representative sampling obtained from 11/34 villages. We recruited 578 residents (median age = 82 years; 420 = female; 217:361 sampled:volunteers), finding differences in baseline parameters of sampled vs. volunteers.

Conclusion

Due to organisational/managers’ policy, and national legislation restrictions, our sample does not represent our intended population well. Researchers should investigate alternative data sources, for example electoral rolls and censuses.
Women’s satisfaction with and ongoing use of hormonal long‐acting methods compared to the oral contraceptive pill: Findings from an Australian general practice cluster randomised trial (ACCORd)
Authors: Black Kirsten I. , McGeechan Kevin , Watson Cathy J. , Lucke Jayne , Taft Angela , McNamee Kathleen , Haas Marion , Peipert Jeffrey F. , Mazza Danielle
Published: February 2021

Background

The Australian Contraceptive ChOice pRoject (ACCORd) aimed to assess the impact of a complex general practice intervention on the uptake of long‐acting reversible contraceptives (LARC).

Aims

Using survey data from enrolled women, we aimed to compare the ongoing use and satisfaction of women who chose one of the hormonal LARC methods including the levonorgestrel intrauterine system (LNG‐IUS) or levonorgestrel implant compared to the oral contraceptive pill (OCP).

Materials and Methods

We used the data from participants’ baseline, six and 12‐month surveys to identify new users of implants, LNG‐IUS or OCP. We included demographic information, ongoing use of the contraceptive method, reasons for dissatisfaction and discontinuation and experience of side‐effects. Proportions were compared using χ2 tests.

Results

Of the 740 women enrolled in ACCORd, 176 started using a hormonal LARC or OCP in the study’s first six months with 76 using the IUS (43%), 60 the implant (34%) and 40 (23%) the OCP. Twelve‐month continuation rates for the LNG‐IUS, implant and OCP were 93, 83 and 65% respectively (P < 0.001). Satisfaction was highest among the LNG‐IUS users; 86% were very/somewhat satisfied compared to 75% of implant users and 61% of OCP users (P < 0.001). Main reasons for method dissatisfaction were irregular bleeding and mood changes which were similar for all methods.

Conclusions

This study provides further evidence that hormonal LARC methods have higher continuation and satisfaction rates compared to the OCP with similar side‐effects. Since hormonal LARC methods have the highest contraceptive efficacy, these should be offered first‐line to women.
IVF add‐ons in Australia and New Zealand: A systematic assessment of IVF clinic websites
Authors: Lensen Sarah , Chen Sheng , Goodman Lucy , Rombauts Luk , Farquhar Cindy , Hammarberg Karin
Published: February 2021

Background

In vitro fertilisation (IVF) ‘add‐ons’ are extra (non‐essential) procedures, techniques or medicines, which usually claim to increase the chance of a successful IVF outcome. Use of IVF add‐ons is believed to be widespread in many settings; however, information about add‐on availability in Australasia is lacking.

Aims

To understand which add‐ons are advertised on Australasian IVF clinic websites, and what is the evidence for their benefit.

Materials and Methods

A systematic assessment of website content was undertaken between December 2019–April 2020, capturing IVF add‐ons advertised, including costs, claims of benefit, statements of risk or limitations, and evidence of effectiveness for improving live birth and pregnancy. A literature review assessed the strength and quality of evidence for each add‐on.

Results

Of the 40 included IVF clinics websites, 31 (78%) listed one or more IVF add‐ons. A total of 21 different add‐ons or add‐on groups were identified, the most common being preimplantation genetic testing for aneuploidies (offered by 63% of clinics), time‐lapse systems (33%) and assisted hatching (28%). In most cases (77%), descriptions of the IVF add‐ons were accompanied by claims of benefit. Most claims (90%) were not quantified and very few referenced scientific publications to support the claims (9.8%). None of the add‐ons were supported by high‐quality evidence of benefit for pregnancy or live birth rates. The cost of IVF add‐ons varied from $0 to $3700 (AUD/NZD).

Conclusions

There is widespread advertising of add‐ons on IVF clinic websites, which report benefits for add‐ons that are not supported by high‐quality evidence.
β‐blockers and ACE inhibitors are not a risk factor for severe systemic sting reactions and adverse events during venom immunotherapy
Authors: Sturm Gunter Johannes , Herzog Sereina Annik , Aberer Werner , Alfaya Arias Teresa , Antolín‐Amérigo Darío , Bonadonna Patrizia , Boni Elisa , Bożek Andrzej , Chełmińska Marta , Ernst Barbara , Frelih Nina , Gawlik Radoslaw , Gelincik Asli , Hawranek Thomas , Hoetzenecker Wolfram , Jiménez Blanco Aránzazu , Kita Karolina , Kendirlinan Reşat , Košnik Mitja , Laipold Karin , Lang Roland , Marchi Francesco , Mauro Marina , Nittner‐Marszalska Marita , Poziomkowska‐Gęsicka Iwona , Pravettoni Valerio , Preziosi Donatella , Quercia Oliviero , Reider Norbert , Rosiek‐Biegus Marta , Ruiz‐Leon Berta , Schrautzer Christoph , Serrano Pilar , Sin Aytül , Sin Betül Ayşe , Stoevesandt Johanna , Trautmann Axel , Vachová Martina , Arzt‐Gradwohl Lisa
Published: February 2021

Background

There is controversy whether taking β‐blockers or ACE inhibitors (ACEI) is a risk factor for more severe systemic insect sting reactions (SSR) and whether it increases the number or severity of adverse events (AE) during venom immunotherapy (VIT).

Methods

In this open, prospective, observational, multicenter trial, we recruited patients with a history of a SSR and indication for VIT. The primary objective of this study was to evaluate whether patients taking β‐blockers or ACEI show more systemic AE during VIT compared to patients without such treatment.

Results

In total, 1,425 patients were enrolled and VIT was performed in 1,342 patients. Of all patients included, 388 (27.2%) took antihypertensive (AHT) drugs (10.4% took β‐blockers, 11.9% ACEI, 5.0% β‐blockers and ACEI). Only 5.6% of patients under AHT treatment experienced systemic AE during VIT as compared with 7.4% of patients without these drugs (OR: 0.74, 95% CI: 0.43–1.22, p = 0.25). The severity of the initial sting reaction was not affected by the intake of β‐blockers or ACEI (OR: 1.14, 95% CI: 0.89–1.46, p = 0.29). In total, 210 (17.7%) patients were re‐stung during VIT and 191 (91.0%) tolerated the sting without systemic symptoms. Of the 19 patients with VIT treatment failure, 4 took β‐blockers, none an ACEI.

Conclusions

This trial provides robust evidence that taking β‐blockers or ACEI does neither increase the frequency of systemic AE during VIT nor aggravate SSR. Moreover, results suggest that these drugs do not impair effectiveness of VIT. (Funded by Medical University of Graz, Austria; Clinicaltrials.gov number, NCT04269629).
Pre‐oxygenation using high‐flow nasal oxygen vs. tight facemask during rapid sequence induction
Authors: Sjöblom A. , Broms J. , Hedberg M. , Lodenius Å. , Furubacke A. , Henningsson R. , Wiklund A. , Nabecker S. , Theiler L. , Jonsson Fagerlund M.
Published: February 2021

Pre‐oxygenation using high‐flow nasal oxygen can decrease the risk of desaturation during rapid sequence induction in patients undergoing emergency surgery. Previous studies were single‐centre and often in limited settings. This randomised, international, multicentre trial compared high‐flow nasal oxygen with standard facemask pre‐oxygenation for rapid sequence induction in emergency surgery at all hours of the day and night. A total of 350 adult patients from six centres in Sweden and one in Switzerland undergoing emergency surgery where rapid sequence induction was required were included and randomly allocated to pre‐oxygenation with 100% oxygen using high‐flow nasal oxygen or a standard tight‐fitting facemask. The primary outcome was the number of patients developing oxygen saturations <93% from the start of pre‐oxygenation until 1 min after tracheal intubation. Data from 349 of 350 patients who entered the study were analysed (174 in the high‐flow nasal oxygen group and 175 in the facemask group). No difference was detected in the number of patients desaturating <93%, five (2.9%) vs. six (3.4%) patients in the high‐flow nasal oxygen and facemask group, respectively (p = 0.77). The risk of desaturation was not increased during on‐call hours. No difference was seen in end‐tidal carbon dioxide levels in the first breath after tracheal intubation or in the number of patients with signs of regurgitation between groups. These results confirm that high‐flow nasal oxygen maintains adequate oxygen levels during pre‐oxygenation for rapid sequence induction.
Safety of ambulatory laparoscopic cholecystectomy in the elderly
Authors: Cao Junning , Liu Bo , Shi Jihang , Meng Xuan , Zhang Hangyu , Pan Yingwei , Lu Shichun
Published: February 2021

Background

This study aims to retrospectively analyse the safety of ambulatory laparoscopic cholecystectomy (ALC) and identify risk factors for delayed discharge after ALC in the elderly.

Methods

Consecutive patients who were scheduled to undergo ALC were assigned to the elderly group (age ≥ 65 years) or the non‐elderly group. The primary outcome was postoperative discharge within 24 h (D24). Secondary outcomes were perioperative mortality, reasons for delayed discharge (psychosocial reasons (DP), complications (DC), drainage (DD) and conversion to open surgery (DCO)), intraoperative data and readmission within 30 days after discharge (readmission). Differences were statistically significant when P < 0.05.

Results

There were 7657 patients assigned to the elderly group (n = 1143) or the non‐elderly group (n = 6514). The differences between elderly patients and non‐elderly patients in the operation time (51.0 (37.0–70.0) versus 50.0 (35.0–65.0) min), blood loss (10.0 (5.0–10.0) versus 5.0 (5.0–10.0) mL), D24 (75.5% versus 81.7%) and DD (7.8% versus 3.2%) were statistically significant (P < 0.05, respectively). The differences between elderly patients and non‐elderly patients in DP (8.2% versus 6.7%), DC (7.8% versus 7.9%), DCO (0.7% versus 0.5%) and readmission (0.5% versus 0.4%) were not statistically significant (P > 0.05, respectively). Independent risk factors for delayed discharge after ALC in the elderly were male sex, octogenarian status, prolonged operation time, arrhythmia, type 2 diabetes mellitus, a previous operation in the upper abdomen, acute inflammation of gallbladder and a gallbladder wall thicker than 3 mm (P < 0.05, respectively).

Conclusion

ALC in the elderly is feasible and safe.
On Doing Relational Research: Participatory Mapping as an Emergent Research Process
Authors: Atia Mona , Doherty Grace
Published: February 2021

An approach conceived in the field and fine‐tuned later, we discuss our “emergent research process” as a way to do relational research. Inspired by critical cartography, we conducted an evolving series of participatory mapping workshops to complement ongoing research on poverty in rural Morocco. Through an iterative expansion in the scope of work and methods used, we broadened our field of inquiry and made discoveries that departed from our original research question. This process brought to light “emergent insights” that we and our interlocutors strategically reconstructed into data that challenged the status quo and challenged decision‐makers to recognise the importance of remoteness as a critical dimension of poverty. Conducting relational geographical research using an emergent workflow entailed expanding definitions of fieldwork and combining methods in ways that summoned us to rethink the boundaries of our own field of inquiry and speak back to dominant spatial ontologies of poverty.
Three Foodbanks in a Decade of Austerity: Foodbank Affective Atmospheres
Authors: Denning Stephanie
Published: February 2021

Poverty in the UK continues to rise, making it more important than ever to understand lived experiences of poverty. This paper responds to a gap in understanding collective experiences of poverty by analysing the affective atmospheres at three foodbanks in two British cities in 2014 and 2019. Drawing on ethnographies at the three foodbanks, it approaches affective atmospheres through Spinoza and a focus on capacity: the capacity of clients to be in a situation different to that of their current experience of food poverty; and the capacity of foodbank volunteers and managers in terms of how they desired the foodbank to be run. Overall, the paper argues that affective atmospheres at the foodbanks were formed by an ever‐changing relation between these capacities through the past, present, and anticipated future, and the ongoing context of austerity.
Chronic hypertension in pregnancy stratified by first‐trimester blood pressure control and adverse perinatal outcomes: A prospective observational study
Authors: Dumitrascu‐Biris Dan , Nzelu Diane , Dassios Theodore , Nicolaides Kypros , Kametas Nikos A.
Published: February 2021

Introduction

The aim of this study was to assess perinatal outcomes in women with chronic hypertension (CH) stratified into four groups according to their blood pressure (BP) control in the first trimester of pregnancy.

Material and methods

This was a prospective cohort study between January 2011 and June 2017, based in a university hospital in London, UK. The population consisted of four groups: group 1 included women without history of CH, presenting in the first trimester with BP >140/90 mmHg (n = 100). Groups 2‐4 had prepregnancy CH; group 2 had BP <140/90 mmHg without antihypertensives (n = 234), group 3 had BP <140/90 mmHg with antihypertensives (n = 272), and group 4 had BP ≥140/90 mmHg despite antihypertensives (n = 194). The main outcome measures were: fetal growth restriction, admission to neonatal (NNU) or neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) for ≥2 days, composite neonatal morbidity, and composite serious adverse neonatal outcome. Outcomes were collected from the hospital databases and for up to 6 weeks postnatally. Differences between groups were assessed using chi‐squared test and multivariate logistic regression was used to assess the independent contribution of the four groups to the prediction of pertinent outcomes, after controlling for maternal characteristics.

Results

There was a higher incidence of fetal growth restriction in groups 3 (17.6%) and 4 (18.2%), compared with groups 1 (10.0%) and 2 (11.1%) (P = .04). There were more admissions to the NNU for ≥2 days in groups 3 (23.2%) and 4 (25.0%), compared with groups 1 (17.0%) and 2 (13.2%) (P = .008); and more admissions to NICU for ≥2 days in groups 3 (9.2%) and 4 (9.4%), compared with groups 1 (3.0%) and 2 (3.4%) (P = .01). Composite neonatal morbidity was higher in groups 3 (22.4%) and 4 (21.4%), compared with groups 1 (17.0%) and 2 (11.5%) (P = .009). Composite serious adverse postnatal outcome was higher in groups 3 (3.3%) and 4 (4.2%), compared with groups 1 (1.0%) and 2 (0.9%) but the difference did not reach statistical significance (P = .09). These results were also observed when values were adjusted for maternal characteristics.

Conclusions

In CH adverse perinatal outcomes are worse in women who are known to have CH and need antihypertensives in the first trimester of pregnancy. Women with newly diagnosed CH in the first trimester have similar outcomes to those with known CH who have antihypertensive treatment discontinued.
Does the charter form lead to lower borrowing costs? Examining the case of California local governments
Authors: Kim Junghack , McDonald Bruce D , Shon Jongmin
Published: February 2021

In this paper, we examine the impact of the charter form of government on the borrowing costs of local governments. A substantial amount of research has been undertaken to date in which scholars have investigated the determinants of borrowing costs for governments. However, little research has been conducted hitherto on the impact that the particular form of government – a key issuer characteristic – has on determining its specific borrowing costs. We hypothesized that a chartered government is more likely to be able to reduce its borrowing costs when it is benefiting from the municipal bond market; a government's flexibility and professionalism is desirable. We tested this hypothesis by using city and county government bond data from California that dates from 2003 to 2015. In our findings, we show that the financial flexibility that is afforded by a charter helps local governments to improve their credit ratings and to lower their borrowing costs.
Surgical approach for right‐sided colonic diverticular bleeding: A single‐center review of 43 consecutive cases
Authors: Kameyama Hitoshi , Yamazaki Toshiyuki , Iwaya Akira , Uehara Hiroaki , Utsumi Shiori , Hirai Motoharu , Komatsu Masaru , Kubota Akira , Katada Tomohiro , Kobayashi Kazuaki , Sato Daisuke , Yokoyama Naoyuki , Kuwabara Shirou , Otani Tetsuya
Published: February 2021

Introduction

While Asian populations develop colonic diverticular disease predominantly in the right colon, Western populations mainly present with left‐sided disease. The present study aimed to clarify the outcomes of surgical treatment for right‐sided colonic diverticular bleeding.

Methods

Medical records of 43 patients who underwent surgery for right‐sided colonic diverticular bleeding between 2010 and 2019 were reviewed. Those whose general condition became unstable underwent open surgery at our institution. Patients were then divided into two groups, the open surgery group (n = 17) and laparoscopic surgery group (n = 26), after which operative outcomes between both groups were compared.

Results

This study included 36 men and seven women with a median age of 76 (range: 37‐91) years. Laparoscopic surgery had a significantly longer operative time (183.5 minutes vs 110 minutes; P < .001) and significantly lower intraoperative blood transfusion rate (19.2% vs 82.4%; P < .001) than open surgery. The laparoscopic surgery group had earlier resumption of postoperative meals than open surgery group (postoperative day 3 vs postoperative day 4; P = .010). No significant difference in postoperative complications was observed between both groups. With regard to long‐term outcomes, none of the cases exhibited rebleeding from the right‐sided colon.

Conclusion

The present study revealed that laparoscopic surgery promoted lower intraoperative blood transfusion rates and earlier resumption of postoperative meals compared to open surgery for right‐sided colonic diverticular bleeding. Hence, laparoscopic surgery can be feasible for right‐sided colonic diverticular bleeding provided that the patientʼs general condition is stable.
Anaerobic co‐digestion of dairy manure and Japanese knotweed (Fallopia japonica) under thermophilic condition: Optimal ratio for biochemical methane production
Authors: Pan Zhifei , Qi Guangdou , Andriamanohiarisoamanana Fetra J. , Yamashiro Takaki , Iwasaki Masahiro , Umetsu Kazutaka
Published: February 2021

Anaerobic co‐digestion of animal manure and lignocellulosic biomass is a potent approach for sustainable biomethane production. Co‐digestion of dairy manure (DM) and Japanese knotweed (JK), which was collected from a riverbank, was investigated at five different DM‐to‐JK mixing ratios (100:0, 90:10, 80:20, 60:40, and 0:100; wet weight basis) under thermophilic condition. The results showed that the methane yields obtain from the co‐digestion of DM and JK were much higher than that obtained from JK alone (104 ml/gVS), which indicates the synergistic effect and the benefits of co‐digesting JK with DM. The highest methane yield (232 ml/gVS) was obtained from the DM‐to‐JK ratio of 90:10, which was 14.9% and 123.1% higher than that from DM and JK alone, respectively. It also showed the highest synergistic effect (61 ml/gVS). However, further increase in JK ratios led to the decrease in methane yield and synergistic effect. Therefore, applying the co‐digestion of DM and JK at a ratio of 90:10 is recommended for biomethane production.
Land‐use history determines stand structure and tree diversity in vanilla agroforests of northeastern Madagascar
Authors: Osen Kristina , Soazafy Marie Rolande , Martin Dominic Andreas , Wurz Annemarie , März Adriane , Ranarijaona Hery Lisy Tiana , Hölscher Dirk
Published: February 2021

Question

In human‐modified tropical landscapes, agroforestry is considered a promising land use to reconcile biodiversity conservation with production goals. The role of agroforests regarding conservation may be strongly influenced by land‐use history; however, few studies have explicitly investigated this. We therefore tested the importance of land‐use history for habitat structure and tree diversity in vanilla agroforests situated in a human‐modified tropical landscape.

Location

Smallholder mosaic landscape of northeastern Madagascar.

Methods

We studied tree stand structure, diversity and composition in vanilla agroforests of contrasting land‐use history, old‐growth forests, forest fragments and woody fallows after slash‐and‐burn agriculture, which all contribute to the smallholder mosaic landscape of northeastern Madagascar. The vanilla agroforests were either derived directly from forest or otherwise from woody fallows after slash‐and‐burn agriculture.

Results

Land‐use history strongly influenced tree species diversity and composition in vanilla agroforests and also affected stand structure. Forest‐derived agroforests maintained high levels of tree species diversity and differed in community composition from fallow‐derived agroforests, which had relatively low levels of tree diversity. Additionally, forest‐derived vanilla agroforests harboured a significantly higher percentage of endemic species than fallow‐derived agroforests, and forest‐derived agroforests also shared many species with old‐growth forests and forest fragments. Fallow‐derived vanilla agroforests harboured a lower percentage of endemic species than woody fallows.

Conclusion

Considering the land‐use history of agroforests is important to unfold their full potential as elements in a multifunctional human‐modified landscape. Forest‐derived agroforests are an alternative to forest conversion through slash‐and‐burn agriculture and have the potential to sustain high levels of species diversity and important habitat structures. In contrast, fallow‐derived agroforests regain stand structure on degraded historically forested land and thereby have the potential to increase canopy cover and connectivity at the landscape scale.
Experiences of completed and withdrawn unspecified kidney donor candidates in the United Kingdom: An inductive thematic analysis from the BOUnD study
Authors: Zuchowski Mira , Mamode Nizam , Draper Heather , Gogalniceanu Peter , Norton Sam , Chilcot Joseph , Clarke Alexis , Williams Lynsey , Auburn Timothy , Maple Hannah
Published: February 2021

Objectives

This study sheds light on some controversial aspects of unspecified kidney donation (UKD) as well as the ways in which potential donors are screened and prepared for the donation experience and its aftermath. The aim of this study was to qualitatively investigate the experiences of individuals involved in the United Kingdom (UK) UKD scheme, including those who complete the donation, are eventually medically withdrawn, or self‐withdraw. Better insight into the different experiences of these groups will provide useful guidance to clinical teams on how to better address the differing psychological needs of completed donors as well as those who do not proceed to donation.

Methods

A purposive sample was recruited through the Barriers and Outcomes in Unspecified Donation (BOUnD) study covering 23 transplant centres in the United Kingdom. Semi‐structured interviews were audio‐recorded and transcribed verbatim and subjected to inductive thematic analysis.

Results

Participants consisted of 15 individuals who had donated, 11 who had been withdrawn by the transplant team and nine who had self‐withdrawn. The analysis resulted in six themes and 14 subthemes. The major themes were maximizing and sharing benefits; risk‐to‐motivation analysis; support; self‐actualization/finding meaning; the donor as patient; and relationship with the transplant team.

Conclusions

The data demonstrate that, although all donors enter the process with a similar level of commitment, those who did not proceed to donation expressed dissatisfaction and lingering emotional consequences linked to lack of follow‐up from transplant teams. The implication for the UKD programme is that from the beginning there needs to be a strategic and consistent approach to managing expectations in order to prepare those who embark on the donation process for all possible outcomes and their associated emotional consequences.
Internet safety, online radicalisation and young people with learning disabilities
Authors: Caton Sue , Landman Roderick
Published: February 2021

Accessible Summary

A lot of people with learning disabilities enjoy using the Internet every day and use social media on their mobile phones. Staying safe online is important.

This research used interviews and focus groups to find out what children, young people, their parents and teachers thought about Internet safety, extremism and online radicalisation.

Extremism is when people have strong and dangerous views about laws or religion. Radicalisation is when people support extremism in a dangerous way. People can be targeted on the Internet to talk them into supporting extremism.

The young people said they knew a lot about staying safe online, but parents were concerned about risks.

When people with learning disabilities learn about staying safe online, they should be given information about online radicalisation and grooming for terrorism.

Background

Young people with learning disabilities are increasingly using the Internet but can be vulnerable to being victimised online. As learning disability services develop guidance on how to support Internet use, it is important to explore what support is necessary.

Methods

This research used interviews and focus groups to explore what children, young people, their parents and teachers thought about Internet safety, extremism and online radicalisation.

Results

Results showed that the students were active Internet users and were confident about online safety but parents were concerned about the risks associated with Internet use. Following taking part in a peer education project that focussed on Internet safety and specifically about risks of online radicalisation and extremism, the students understood possible links between grooming and online radicalisation and their teachers increased their understanding of the importance of digital engagement for their students.