bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Morphology and properties of composite coating on mild steel: effect of bath temperature and snail shell weight composition
Authors: Aigbodion Victor Sunday , C.C. Enyi , E.T. Akinlabi , I.Y. Suleiman , I.C. Ezema , C.A. Mgbemene
Published: May 2019

Purpose

This paper aims to investigate the parametric study of addition of snail shell particles (SSp) and bath temperature on the properties of Zn-ZnO-SSp composites coating.

Design/methodology/approach

Bath temperatures of 60°C and 90°C and SSp of 0, 5, 10, 15, 20 and 25g were used in the electrodeposition. The microstructure, electrochemical, wear and hardness values of the coated samples were determined.

Findings

Highest coating thickness of 240 µm, 277 per cent improvement in hardness values, 66.67 per cent improvement of wear rate were obtained at bath temperature of 60oC and 15gSSp addition over that of the uncoated sample. There was improvement in corrosion resistance after composites coating. Maximum improvement in the properties was obtained at bath temperature of 60°C at 15gSSp addition.

Originality/value

It has been established in this work that bath treatment and SSps improved the properties of the developed coating.
Managing hedgerows for nocturnal wildlife: Do bats and their insect prey benefit from targeted agri‐environment schemes?
Authors: Froidevaux Jérémy S. P. , Boughey Katherine L. , Hawkins Charlotte L. , Broyles Moth , Jones Gareth
Published: May 2019

Mitigating the detrimental impacts of intensive farming on biodiversity requires the implementation of cost‐effective conservation actions. Targeted agri‐environment schemes (AESs) to enhance populations of threatened species inhabiting farmland have been proposed for this purpose, yet their effectiveness for nocturnal wildlife remains unknown.

We assessed whether hedgerow management prescribed by targeted AESs to improve habitat conditions for the greater horseshoe bat (Rhinolophus ferrumequinum) in England may positively influence the species, the entire bat assemblage and the insect prey of bats. We specifically investigated the responses of bats (occurrence, activity and species richness) and insects (biomass, abundance and diversity) to time since last trimming (from 1 up to 10 years). We explored the mechanisms underlying the effects of AES via changes in trimming regime on bats. Moreover, we investigated the effects of landscape context on bats as we expected that highly mobile species would benefit further from landscape‐scale management.

Bat species richness significantly increased with time since last trimming. Three bat taxa of major conservation concern in Western Europe substantially benefited from the targeted prescription, namelyR. ferrumequinum,Rhinolophus hipposiderosandPlecotusspp. Insect family richness and dipteran abundance were also significantly greater at hedgerows that were untrimmed for at least 3 years. The activity of more common bat species (i.e. pipistrelle bats) was not influenced by time since last trimming.

Changes in trimming regime strongly affected hedgerow height which directly and indirectly (by increasing prey abundance) influenced bat occurrence, activity and species richness along hedgerows.

The activity of highly mobile bat species was mainly associated with a range of landscape attributes. The amount of semi‐natural grassland within 0.5 km of the sampling sites positively influencedR. ferrumequinumwhile the presence of urban areas negatively affected light‐sensitive bat species.

Synthesis and applications.The implementation of targeted agri‐environment schemes can include effective measures to enhance bats and their insect prey in farmland. Although we highlight the success of current prescriptions on hedgerow management, we suggest that their effectiveness can easily be optimized by encouraging farmers to keep hedgerows untrimmed for longer periods (>3 up to 10 years). We also highlight that a multi‐scale management approach is required to successfully promote bats in farmland.
Extraction of Green Tea Phenolics Using Water Bubbled with Gases
Authors: Ryu Jiwon , Kim Mi‐Ja , Lee JaeHwan
Published: May 2019

Water was bubbled with gases including nitrogen (N2), oxygen (O2), hydrogen (H2), carbon dioxide (CO2), and air for 10 min and phenolics from green tea leaves were extracted using the prepared gas‐bubbled water. To retain the gases in water, the extraction conditions were maintained in an air‐tight container at room temperature under magnetic stirring. Radical scavenging ability, total phenolic content, and phenolic profiles of the extracts were analyzed, and gas‐bubbled water was examined to explain the differences in phenolic contents. Overall, green tea infusion prepared from H2‐bubbled water contained significantly high levels of total phenolic compounds and antioxidant activity compared to other gas‐bubbled waters including N2, O2, CO2, and air (P < 0.05).Control samples and those bubbled with CO2 showed the lowest antioxidant activities in green tea infusion. However, green tea extracts with O2 bubbling showed the lowest catechin content. Green tea leaves treated with hydrogen gas‐bubbled water had much greater damage to their surface morphological properties compared to the other groups, which may explain the higher yield of phenolic compounds. Overall, hydrogen gas‐bubbled water showed better extraction yield of phenolics from green tea leaves than other gas‐bubbled water.

Practical Application

Green tea or green tea infusion has diverse health beneficial functionality due to the presence of phenolic compounds. In this study, different gases including nitrogen, oxygen, hydrogen, and carbon dioxide were treated in water and these gas‐bubbled water were used to extract phenolics from green tea leaves. Among them, hydrogen‐bubbled water extracted the highest phenolic contents from tea leaves and showed the highest in vitro antioxidant ability in green tea infusion compared to other gas‐bubbled water. This new knowledge could help to produce green teas with higher antioxidant activity in beverage industry.
Genes, Roommates, and Residence Halls: A Multidimensional Study of the Role of Peer Drinking on College Students’ Alcohol Use
Authors: Smith Rebecca L. , Salvatore Jessica E. , Aliev Fazil , Neale Zoe , Barr Peter ,   Spit for Science Working Group, Dick Danielle M.
Published: May 2019

Background

Peer drinking is one of the most robust predictors of college students’ alcohol use and can moderate students’ genetic risk for alcohol use. Peer effect research generally suffers from 2 problems: selection into peer groups and relying more on perceptions of peer alcohol use than peers’ self‐report. The goal of the present study was to overcome those limitations by capitalizing on a genetically informed sample of randomly assigned college roommates to examine multiple dimensions of peer influence and the interplay between peer effects and genetic predisposition on alcohol use, in the form of polygenic scores.

Methods

We used a subsample (n = 755) of participants from a university‐wide, longitudinal study at a large, diverse, urban university. Participants reported their own alcohol use during fall and spring and their perceptions of college peers’ alcohol use in spring. We matched individuals into their rooms and residence halls to create a composite score of peer‐reported alcohol use for each of those levels. We examined multiple dimensions of peer influence and whether peer influence moderated genetic predisposition to predict college students’ alcohol use using multilevel models to account for clustering at the room and residence hall level.

Results

We found that polygenic scores (β = 0.12), perceptions of peer drinking (β = 0.37), and roommates’ self‐reported drinking (β = 0.10) predicted alcohol use (all ps < 0.001), while average alcohol use across residence hall did not (β = −0.01, p = 0.86). We found no evidence for interactions between peer influence and genome‐wide polygenic scores for alcohol use.

Conclusions

Our findings underscore the importance of genetic predisposition on individual alcohol use and support the potentially causal nature of the association between peer influence and alcohol use.
Do Associations Between Alcohol Use and Alcohol Use Disorder Vary by Weight Status? Results From the National Epidemiologic Survey on Alcohol and Related Conditions‐III
Authors: White Gretchen E. , Richardson Gale A. , Mair Christina , Courcoulas Anita P. , King Wendy C.
Published: May 2019

Background

Understanding whether the associations between alcohol use and alcohol use disorder (AUD) differ by weight status may be useful in screening for AUD in populations where obesity is common. We aimed to determine whether the associations between alcohol use and AUD differ by weight status.

Methods

A total of 24,869 adult participants of the National Epidemiologic Survey on Alcohol and Related Conditions‐III with a body mass index ≥18.5 kg/m2 who reported past‐year alcohol use were included. The AUD and Associated Disabilities Interview Schedule‐5 were administered to identify past‐year AUD. Logistic regression was used to test the associations between weight status and levels and patterns of alcohol use with AUD; interactions between weight status and alcohol use variables in relation to AUD were examined. Analyses were stratified by gender.

Results

For males and females, the odds of AUD were higher with greater frequency of any alcohol use and heavy drinking, higher average quantity of drinks per drinking day, and past‐year high‐risk drinking. Among males, at the same average quantity of drinks per drinking day, frequency of heavy drinking, or presence of high‐risk drinking, those with class 3 obesity had higher odds of AUD versus lower classes or no obesity (p for all interactions <0.01). Among females, at the same frequency of any alcohol use, those with healthy weight had the highest odds of AUD, while females with class 3 obesity had the lowest odds of AUD (p for interaction <0.001); interactions between weight status and other alcohol use variables were not significant (p ≥ 0.05).

Conclusions

The associations between some measures of alcohol use and AUD differed by weight status, with inconsistent results between males and females. Alcohol use thresholds typically used in AUD screening may be too high in males with class 3 obesity.
Impact of Genetic Variation on Stress‐Related Ethanol Consumption
Authors: Mulligan Megan K. , Lu Lu , Cavigelli Sonia A. , Mormède Pierre , Terenina Elena , Zhao Wenyuan , Williams Robert W. , Jones Byron C.
Published: May 2019

Background

The effect of stress on alcohol consumption in humans is highly variable, and the underlying processes are not yet understood. Attempts to model a positive relationship between stress and increased ethanol (EtOH) consumption in animals have been only modestly successful. Our hypothesis is that individual differences in stress effects on EtOH consumption are mediated by genetics.

Methods

We measured alcohol consumption, using the drinking‐in‐the‐dark (DID) paradigm in females from 2 inbred mouse strains, C57BL/6J (B6) and DBA/2J (D2), and 35 of their inbred progeny (the BXD family). A control group was maintained in normal housing and a stress group was exposed to chronic mild stress (CMS), consisting of unpredictable stressors over 7 weeks. These included predator, social, and environmental perturbations. Alcohol intake was measured over 16 weeks in both groups during baseline (preceding 5‐week period), CMS (intervening 7‐week period), and post‐CMS (final 4‐week period).

Results

We detected a strong effect of CMS on alcohol intake. A few strains demonstrated CMS‐related increased alcohol consumption; however, most showed decreased intake. We identified 1 nearly significant quantitative trait locus on chromosome 5 that contains the neuronal nitric oxide synthase gene (Nos1). The expression of Nos1 is frequently changed following alcohol exposure, and variants in this gene segregating among the BXD population may modulate alcohol intake in response to stress.

Conclusions

The results we present here represent the first study to combine chronic stress and alcohol consumption in a genetic reference population of mice. Differences in susceptibility to the effects of stressful environments vis‐à‐vis alcohol use disorders would suggest that the differences have at least some basis in genetic constitution. We have also nominated a likely candidate gene underlying the large individual differences in effects of stress on alcohol consumption.
Expression of the Tim3‐galectin‐9 axis is altered in drug‐induced maculopapular exanthema
Authors: Fernandez‐Santamaría Ruben , Palomares Francisca , Salas Maria , Doña Inmaculada , Bogas Gador , Ariza Adriana , Rodriguez‐Nogales Alba , Plaza‐Seron Maria C. , Mayorga Cristobalina , Torres Maria J. , Fernández Tahia D.
Published: May 2019

Background

Drug‐induced maculopapular exanthemas (MPEs) are mediated by Th1 CD4+ T cells. One of the mechanisms of control of Th1 cells in homeostasis is the interaction between the checkpoint inhibitor Tim3 and its physiological ligand galectin‐9 (Gal9). Disorders affecting this axis may be responsible for various autoimmune and immunological diseases. The aim of this study was to determinate the influence of the Tim3‐Gal9 axis on the development of MPE induced by drugs.

Methods

Frequencies of different cell subsets and the expression of Tim3 and Gal9 were measured in peripheral blood by flow cytometry and in skin biopsies by immunohistochemistry. Gal9 expression was assessed by RT‐qPCR; its release was measured by multiplex assay. The effects of blocking or enhancing the Tim3‐Gal9 axis on monocyte‐derived dendritic cell (moDC) maturation and T‐cell proliferation were determined by flow cytometry.

Results

The expression of Tim3 was significantly reduced in peripheral blood Th1 cells and in the skin of MPE patients vs controls. Gal9 expression and release were significantly reduced in patient peripheral blood and moDCs, respectively. The addition of exogenous Gal9 significantly reduced Tim3+ Th1 proliferation, although Treg proliferation increased.

Conclusion

This study showed the involvement of the Tim3‐Gal9 axis in MPE. The reduced expression of Tim3 in Th1 cells together with the impaired expression of Gal9 in PBMCs and DCs appears to have a role in the development of the disease. The potential of Gal9 to suppress Th1 and enhance Treg proliferation makes it a promising tool for treating these reactions.
Comparison of the health and well‐being of smoking and non‐smoking school‐aged children in Ireland
Authors: Evans David S. , O'Farrell Anne , Sheridan Aishling , Kavanagh Paul
Published: May 2019

Background

Although most young people are aware of the long‐term consequences of smoking, it has been shown that young smokers expect to give up before any health damage occurs. Little is known in an Irish context about the association between smoking and young people's current health. This could be helpful to help reduce smoking initiation and encouraging quitting. The study aimed to determine the association between smoking and health and well‐being indicators among Irish school‐aged children.

Methods

The 2014 Irish Health Behaviour in School‐aged Children study was analysed, which comprised a random stratified sample of 9,623 schoolchildren (aged 10–18). The prevalence of eight self‐reported health complaints and two subjective well‐being measures were compared across strata classified by self‐reported smoking status using Pearson's chi square and independent t tests. Logistic regression and ordinal regression were used to control for age, gender, and social class.

Results

A significantly larger proportion of smokers (p < .001) reported fair to poor health (32% versus 11% for non‐smokers), lower mean life satisfaction scores (6.2 compared with 7.5), and each of eight health complaints at least once a week (range = 25–50% compared with 15–21%). These patterns remained significant after adjusting for differences in age, gender, and social class profile (p < .001).

Conclusions

The study demonstrates the potential of developing initiatives, which target smoking in adolescence as opposed to the longer term health effects of smoking which are well known. The findings can be utilized to counteract positive perceptions of smoking among schoolchildren. This, combined with providing supports to help children quit, may help achieve government targets to reduce smoking prevalence.
T cell metabolism in chronic viral infection
Authors: Pallett L J , Schmidt N , Schurich A
Published: May 2019

T cells are a fundamental component of the adaptive immune response in the context of both acute and chronic viral infection. Tight control over the metabolic processes within T cells provides an additional level of immune regulation that is interlinked with nutrient sensing and the continued balancing of co-stimulatory and co-inhibitory signals. Underpinning T cell responsiveness for viral control are a number of phenotypic and functional adaptations ensuring adequate nutrient uptake and their utilization. T cells responding to persistent viral infections often exhibit a profile associated with immune cell exhaustion and a dysregulated metabolic profile, driven by a combination of chronic antigenic stimulation and signals from the local microenvironment. Understanding alterations in these metabolic processes provides an important basis for immunotherapeutic strategies to treat persistent infections.
Diabetic eye disease and screening attendance by ethnicity in New Zealand: A systematic review
Authors: Ramke Jacqueline , Jordan Vanessa , Vincent Andrea L. , Harwood Matire , Murphy Rinki , Ameratunga Shanthi
Published: May 2019

To examine differences in incidence, prevalence and screening for diabetic retinopathy in New Zealand, we searched MEDLINE, EMBASE and CINAHL up to 6 December 2018 for observational studies reporting diabetic eye disease or attendance at retinal screening, disaggregated by ethnicity. Two authors separately screened and selected studies, and extracted data. None of the 11 included studies reported data on visual impairment from diabetic retinopathy. All nine studies reporting diabetic eye disease by ethnicity found Pacific people and Māori had higher rates of sight‐threatening disease and lower rates of screening attendance compared to Europeans. Data for Asian people were infrequently reported, but when they were, they also fared worse than Europeans. This review highlights that equity‐focused strategies are needed to address ethnic disparities in eye health among New Zealanders with diabetes. The review also identifies how research methods can be strengthened to enable future calculation of robust disease prevalence estimates.
Tissue integration of zirconia and titanium implants with and without buccal dehiscence defects—A histologic and radiographic preclinical study
Authors: Thoma Daniel S. , Lim Hyun‐Chang , Paeng Kyeong‐Won , Jung Ui‐Won , Hämmerle Christoph H. F. , Jung Ronald E.
Published: May 2019

Objective

To histologically and radiographically evaluate soft (primary outcome) and hard tissue integration of two‐piece titanium and zirconia dental implants with/without buccal dehiscence defects.

Materials & methods

In six dogs, five implants were randomly placed on both sides of the mandible: (a) Z1: a zirconia implant (modified surface) within the bony housing, (b) Z2: a zirconia implant (standard surface) within the bony housing, (c) T: a titanium implant within the bony housing, (d) Z1_D: a Z1 implant placed with a buccal bone dehiscence (3 mm in height, identical width to implant body), and (e) T_D: a titanium implant placed with a buccal bone dehiscence. Two weeks of healing and 6 months of loading were applied on each hemi‐mandible, respectively.

Results

The median level of the margo mucosae shifted more apically over time in all groups (borderline statistical significance in groups Z1_D: −0.52 mm and T_D: −1.26 mm). The median height of the peri‐implant mucosa in groups Z1_D and T_D was greatest at 2 weeks and 6 months, but the linear change in the peri‐implant mucosa was statistically significant only for group T_D over time (−1.45 mm). Z1 demonstrated a higher bone‐to‐implant contact compared to Z2 and T. Minimal change of radiographic marginal bone levels in all groups was observed (<1 mm).

Conclusion

When buccal dehiscence was presented, titanium implants presented significant loss of peri‐implant mucosal height compared to zirconia implants with a modified surface, due to greater apical shift of the margo mucosae. A modified zirconia surface enhanced osseointegration.
John Mercer FRS, FCS, MPhS, JP: the Father of Textile Chemistry
Authors: Holme Ian , Blackburn Richard S.
Published: May 2019

John Mercer (1791–1866) was a pioneering textile and colour chemist with a legacy of achievements. His invention of mercerising that bears his name, treating cellulosics with sodium hydroxide to bring about advantageous changes in fibre and fabric properties, will stand for all time as one of the most important textile chemical treatments ever developed. However, Mercer's contributions to the textiles and coloration industries went far beyond mercerisation. A self‐taught chemical experimentalist par excellence, his keen observations and interest in calico printing led to many novel developments, such as his work on Chrome Yellow and other ‘mineral colours’. Mercer developed new methods for fixing Prussian Blue on calico and wool, developed new mordants for dyeing, improved the extraction of carminic acid from cochineal, and improved the oiling process in Turkey Red dyeing. He saved lives with his research into early antimicrobials, preventing the spread of cholera in textile villages in Lancashire. Mercer was an unsung hero of early photography, and developed light‐sensitive imaging materials and made some of the earliest recorded monochromatic colour photographs. His forward‐looking views on technical education, that workers in the industry should be fully instructed in the nature of the various substances used in their arts, later came to fruition in the establishment of the textile departments in Manchester, Leeds and Glasgow. To this day, Mercer remains the only textile chemist who has ever been elected as a Fellow of the Royal Society since 1852. He is thus quite rightly considered as the Father of Textile Chemistry.
Efficient adsorption of dyes from aqueous solution by poly(vinyl alcohol‐co‐ethylene) nanofibre membranes modified with β‐cyclodextrin
Authors: Wang Wen , Fan Zhuizhui , Zhu Qing , Li Mufang , Liu Ke , Yan Kelu , Wang Dong
Published: May 2019

In this paper, highly absorbent poly(vinyl alcohol‐co‐ethylene) nanofibre membranes modified by β‐cyclodextrin were prepared to adsorb dyestuff from water, and 1,2,3,4‐butanetetra carboxylic acid was used as a crosslinking agent, which greatly enhanced the adsorption capacity of the modified membranes. Field emission scanning electron microscopy and Fourier Transform–infrared spectroscopy were used to characterise the surface morphology and chemical structures of the membranes. Methylene Blue (MB) was used as the main adsorbed dye. The effect of pH value and concentration of the MB solution were also investigated, and equilibrium adsorption reached 139.2 mg/g when the pH value was 10.0. The adsorption process fitted well with the Langmuir adsorption isotherm model and was in accord with the pseudo‐second‐order kinetic model. Moreover, the modified membranes proved to have selective adsorption, especially for some cationic dyes other than MB, and had the potential to be recycled multiple times.
Novel submucosal injection solution 0.6% sodium alginate: Bench to market for endoscopic submucosal dissection optimization
Authors: Kawaguchi Koichiro , Isomoto Hajime
Published: May 2019

This Editorial refers to the article by N. Uemura et al., p 396–404 of this issue.
Early magnetic resonance imaging to detect presymptomatic leptomeningeal angioma in children with suspected Sturge–Weber syndrome
Authors: Bar Claire , Pedespan Jean‐Michel , Boccara Olivia , Garcelon Nicolas , Levy Raphael , Grévent David , Boddaert Nathalie , Nabbout Rima
Published: May 2019

Aim

We aimed to evaluate the contribution of early magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) for the presymptomatic diagnosis of Sturge–Weber syndrome (SWS) in infants with a facial port‐wine birthmark (PWB).

Method

Asymptomatic infants with a facial PWB who performed a first MRI scan before 3 months and a second MRI scan after 9 months were included in this study. Leptomeningeal enhancement on T1‐weighted imaging and four indirect signs of leptomeningeal angioma (choroid plexus enlargement, cerebral atrophy, signal inversion of the white matter with T2 hyposignal, and T1 hypersignal) were screened on the first MRI scan and correlated with clinical and/or radiological diagnosis of SWS.

Results

Thirteen of 30 included patients had SWS with leptomeningeal angioma. Eleven had a leptomeningeal enhancement on the first MRI scan and 10 had associated indirect signs. The presence of a direct or at least one indirect sign of leptomeningeal angioma on the first MRI scan confirmed the diagnosis of SWS with a sensitivity of 100 per cent (95% confidence interval 75–100%) and a specificity of 94 per cent (71–100%).

Interpretation

Early diagnosis of SWS is possible on contrast‐enhanced MRI performed in asymptomatic infants with a facial PWB before the age of 3 months. This early detection would help to select patients who may benefit from early neuroprotective intervention.

What this paper adds

Specific magnetic resonance imaging markers provide early diagnosis of leptomeningeal angioma in Sturge–Weber syndrome (SWS).

Presymptomatic diagnosis of SWS should help to select patients for early therapy intervention.
Precipitation on abscised leaves modulates leaf‐mining beetle (Trachys yanoi) survivorship and population dynamics
Authors: Ohsawa Masashi , Iijima Hayato
Published: May 2019

1. We clarified the effects of early leaf abscission on the survivorship of the leaf‐mining beetle Trachys yanoi Y. Kurosawa (Coleoptera: Buprestidae) and the underlying mechanism in relation to weather conditions in Japan. Trachys yanoi is an insect pest of zelkova trees [Zelkova serrata (Thunb.) Makino (Rosales: Ulmaceae)]. Larvae burrow into zelkova leaves and feed on leaf tissue, causing early leaf abscission.

2. This study investigated the relationship between the beetle population and weather conditions over 10 years in a zelkova forest. The effects of moisture and temperature on adult emergence from early abscised leaves were examined in the laboratory and in the field.

3. The beetle population in the studied forest was negatively affected by high precipitation levels when the beetles still inhabited early abscised leaves. Fewer adults emerged from early abscised leaves under wet conditions than under dry conditions, in both laboratory and field tests.

4. These results demonstrate that early leaf abscission plays an important role in leaf‐mining beetle survivorship and population dynamics, and that the amount of precipitation when leaf‐mining beetles still inhabit early abscised leaves modulates this effect.

5. Because precipitation when leaf‐mining beetles still inhabit early abscised leaves was mainly driven by an East Asian rainy season front, the beetle population dynamics were affected by the activity of the front.
A new exon 12 mutation in the EPAS1 gene possibly associated with erythrocytosis
Authors: Schelker Roland Christian , Herr Wolfgang , Grassinger Jochen
Published: May 2019

In secondary erythrocytosis, the elevated red cell count is powered by factors outside the erythroid compartment, for instance by raised erythropoietin (EPO) synthesis based on congenital defects of the oxygen‐sensing pathway. The principal transcriptional regulator of EPO synthesis is endothelial PAS domain‐containing protein 1 (EPAS 1).

We present here the first report of a patient with erythrocytosis involving a mutation of amino acid 525 in EPAS1. The p.Asp525His mutation affects a residue that is farthermost from primary functional site Pro‐531 of any of the erythrocytosis‐related mutations that have been identified up to now.
Artificial selection causes significant linkage disequilibrium among multiple unlinked genes in Australian wheat
Authors: Joukhadar Reem , Daetwyler Hans D. , Gendall Anthony R. , Hayden Matthew J.
Published: May 2019

Australia has one of the oldest modern wheat breeding programs worldwide although the crop was first introduced to the country in 1788. Breeders selected wheat with high adaptation to different Australian climates, while ensuring satisfactory yield and quality. This artificial selection left distinct genomic signatures that can be used to retrospectively understand breeding targets, and to detect economically important alleles. To study the effect of artificial selection on modern cultivars and cultivars released in different Australian states, we genotyped 482 Australian cultivars representing the history of wheat breeding in Australia since 1840. Computer simulation showed that 86 genomic regions were significantly affected by artificial selection. Characterization of 18 major genes known to affect wheat adaptation, yield, and quality revealed that many were affected by artificial selection and contained within regions under selection. Similarly, many reported QTL and genes for yield, quality, and adaptation were also contained in regions affected by artificial selection. These included TaCwi‐A1, TaGw2‐6A, Sus‐2B, TaSus1‐7A, TaSAP1‐7A, Glu‐A1, Glu‐B1, Glu‐B3, PinA, PinB, Ppo‐D1, Psy‐A1, Psy‐A2, Rht‐A1, Rht‐B1, Ppd‐D1, Vrn‐A1, Vrn‐B1, and Cre8. Interestingly, 17 regions affected by artificial selection were in moderate‐to‐high linkage disequilibrium with each other with an average r2 value of 0.35 indicating strong simultaneous selection on specific alleles. These regions included Glu‐B1, TaGw2‐6A, Cre8, Ppd‐D1, Rht‐B1, Vrn‐B1, TaSus1‐7A, TaSAP1‐7A, and Psy‐A1 plus multiple QTL affecting wheat yield and yield components. These results highlighted the effects of the long‐term artificial selection on Australian wheat germplasm and identified putative regions underlying important traits in wheat.
Neuroplastin 65 modulates anxiety‐ and depression‐like behavior likely through adult hippocampal neurogenesis and central 5‐HT activity
Authors: Li Huanhuan , Liu Yutong , Gao Xiaoqing , Liu Lifen , Amuti Siyiti , Wu Dandan , Jiang Fen , Huang Liang , Wang Geying , Zeng Jiujiang , Ma Bin , Yuan Qionglan
Published: May 2019

Neuroplastin 65 (Np65) is a brain‐specific cell adhesion molecule that is highly expressed in the hippocampus, amygdala, and cortex, regions of the brain that are associated with memory and emotions. However, the role of Np65 in regulation of emotional behavior is still unclear. In the present study, we show that Np65 knock‐out (Np65 KO) mice display enhanced anxiety‐like behavior, a reduction in some aspects of depressive‐like behaviors, and increased sociability and memory. Biochemical investigations revealed that Np65 KO mice show increased adult‐born neurons and proliferation in the hippocampus. In addition, the level of 5‐hydroxytryptamine (5‐HT) in the hippocampus was reduced. The expression of tryptophan hydroxylase 2 in the brainstem and the expression of the 5‐HT3A receptor were also decreased. Electrophysiological recordings confirmed an impaired maintenance of long‐term potentiation in the hippocampus of Np65 KO mice. Together, our findings uncover a role for Np65 in regulating anxiety‐ and depressive‐like behaviors and suggest that Np65 may be essential for the maintenance of emotional stability, indicating that it might be an attractive potential target for treatment of psychiatric disorders.
Domiciliary dental care among homebound older adults: A nested case–control study in Japan
Authors: Ishimaru Miho , Ono Sachiko , Morita Kojiro , Matsui Hiroki , Yasunaga Hideo
Published: May 2019

Aim

Improving the availability of dental care is essential to maintain older adults’ general health and wellbeing. Domiciliary dental care is a feasible alternative. The present study aimed to investigate factors affecting the use of domiciliary dental care among home‐dwelling dependent older adults.

Methods

A retrospective nested case–control study was carried out. We identified long‐term care recipients who used home care services between April 2012 and March 2014 using Japan's nationwide long‐term care service claim database. One‐to‐one case–control matching was carried out between those with and without domiciliary dental care, based on sex, age and the time home care service use was started. We carried out multivariable conditional logistic regression analyses to assess various factors associated with using domiciliary dental care.

Results

We identified 3 377 998 eligible homebound long‐term care beneficiaries aged ≥65 years. Of these, 278 302 (8.2%) received domiciliary dental care. Factors associated with a higher probability of receiving domiciliary dental care were: higher level of care need (odds ratio [OR] 1.99, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.93–2.06), exemption from out‐of‐pocket payment (OR 1.35, 95% CI 1.32–1.39]), living in a group home (OR 7.93, 95% CI 7.71–8.16), using other domiciliary services such as physician visits (OR 3.15, 95% CI 3.08–3.22) and a large number of dental clinics providing domiciliary dental care in their municipality (OR 1.74, 95% CI 1.70–1.77). Significant barriers to receiving domiciliary dental care were living alone (OR 0.64, 95% CI 0.62–0.66) and dementia (OR 0.89, 95% CI 0.88–0.91).

Conclusions

Our findings might help to improve the availability of dental care in this population. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2019; 19: 679–683.
Loss of the small GTPase Arl8b results in abnormal development of the roof plate in mouse embryos
Authors: Hashimoto Keisuke , Yamaguchi Yoshifumi , Kishi Yusuke , Kikko Yorifumi , Takasaki Kanako , Maeda Yurie , Matsumoto Yudai , Oka Miho , Miura Masayuki , Ohata Shinya , Katada Toshiaki , Kontani Kenji
Published: May 2019

Lysosomes are acidic organelles responsible for degrading both exogenous and endogenous materials. The small GTPase Arl8 localizes primarily to lysosomes and is involved in lysosomal function. In the present study, using Arl8b gene‐trapped mutant (Arl8b−/−) mice, we show that Arl8b is required for the development of dorsal structures of the neural tube, including the thalamus and hippocampus. In embryonic day (E) 10.5 Arl8b−/− embryos, Sox1 (a neuroepithelium marker) was ectopically expressed in the roof plate, whereas the expression of Gdf7 and Msx1 (roof plate markers) was reduced in the dorsal midline of the midbrain. Ectopic expression of Sox1 in Arl8b−/− embryos was detected also at E9.0 in the neural fold, which gives rise to the roof plate. In addition, the levels of Bmp receptor IA and phosphorylated Smad 1/5/8 (downstream of BMP signaling) were increased in the neural fold of E9.0 Arl8b−/− embryos. These results suggest that Arl8b is involved in the development of the neural fold and the subsequently formed roof plate, possibly via control of BMP signaling.
Clearance of FGF‐23 during continuous renal replacement therapy
Authors: Sharma Shilpa , Christov Marta , Ix Joachim H. , Waikar Sushrut S.
Published: May 2019

FGF‐23 is a 32 kDa protein that is a key regulator of phosphorus and vitamin D metabolism. Emerging evidence also demonstrates that FGF‐23 increases within 24 hours of acute kidney injury (AKI) and may be associated with adverse clinical outcomes. We conducted this study to evaluate FGF23 clearance during continuous veno‐venous hemofiltration (CVVH) in critically ill patients with AKI. We demonstrate that plasma clearance of FGF‐23 during CVVH is ∼11 mL/min and the mean sieving coefficient is 0.27 ± 0.1. Future studies will need to clarify FGF‐23's role in adverse outcomes among AKI patients, and whether therapies aimed at reducing FGF‐23 levels may be beneficial.
The relationship between serum magnesium levels and mortality in non‐diabetic hemodialysis patients: A 10‐year follow‐up study
Authors: Shimohata Homare , Yamashita Marina , Ohgi Kentaro , Tsujimoto Ryuji , Maruyama Hiroshi , Takayasu Mamiko , Hirayama Kouichi , Kobayashi Masaki
Published: May 2019

Introduction Recently, although there are many reports showing that serum magnesium concentration is a predictor of mortality in dialysis patients, the observation periods of those reports were of short duration, typically around 12 months. Thus, we investigated this relationship over a longer follow‐up period.

Methods This retrospective, observational study included a total of 83 non‐diabetic hemodialysis patients. The follow‐up period was 120 months. Patients were divided into two groups, those with serum magnesium ≥2.5 mg/dL (Mg ≥2.5 mg/dL group) and serum magnesium <2.5 mg/dL (Mg <2.5 mg/dL group), and Kaplan‐Meier analysis and Cox proportional hazards analysis were conducted. In addition to the above analysis, single and multiple regression analysis were performed at baseline to reveal the relationship between serum magnesium and clinical parameters.

Findings During the follow‐up period, 31 out of 83 patients died. Kaplan‐Meier analysis showed a significantly higher incidence of death in the Mg <2.5 mg/dL group (log‐rank test 4.951, P = 0.026). Multivariate Cox proportional hazards analysis showed a 62% decreased risk of mortality in the Mg ≥2.5 mg/dL group compared to the Mg <2.5 mg/dL group after adjustment for several confounding factors. Simple correlation coefficient analysis showed positive correlations of serum magnesium levels with serum creatinine, phosphorus, high‐density lipoprotein, ankle‐brachial index and KT/V, and a negative correlation with age. Multiple linear regression analysis showed that the ankle‐brachial index was the only parameter that had a positive and significant correlation with the serum magnesium level.

Conclusion Our study demonstrated that higher serum magnesium levels were associated with improved survival in non‐diabetic hemodialysis patients.
Zonisamide for Cluster Headache Prophylaxis: A Case Series
Authors: Limmer Allison L. , Holland Levi C. , Loftus Brian D.
Published: May 2019

Objective

There is very little literature surrounding the prophylactic use of zonisamide in cluster headaches. The study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of zonisamide for prophylaxis of cluster headache in patients with chronic or episodic cluster headache.

Background

Both chronic and episodic cluster headaches are debilitating disorders which are often refractory to multiple prophylactic medication regimens. There is a scarcity of research in this area, and current prophylactic options for patients are fairly limited, which is troublesome for affected patients. Zonisamide is an established antiepileptic with a multifactorial mechanism of action which has shown to be useful in other headache disorders such as migraine.

Methods

Twenty cluster headache patients, both episodic (n = 12; ICHD 3.1.1) and chronic (n = 8; ICHD 3.1.2), who had been or currently were treated with zonisamide, were retrospectively evaluated. Effectiveness of the medication was assessed and identified as headache remission or a reduction in severity or frequency of cluster headache of greater than 50%. Responder status, side effects, and dosage were recorded.

Results

Fourteen (70%) patients responded to zonisamide treatment, while 6 (30%) did not. Recorded effective plasma zonisamide levels ranged from 10.2 to 31.9 μg/mL. Of the 6 non‐responders, 2 stopped the medication due to ineffectiveness, while 4 discontinued the medication secondary to intolerable side effects ranging from gastrointestinal upset to malaise. No more serious adverse events occurred. Eight patients total experienced weight loss/anorexia which many perceived as a positive effect; they lost an average of 10.5% of their body weight in the first 6 months of therapy.

Conclusions

Zonisamide appears to be an effective prophylactic treatment for patients with chronic and episodic cluster headache disorders. Further research in this area is clearly warranted.
Ethnic differences in psychosis—Lay epidemiology explanations
Authors: Schofield Peter , Kordowicz Maria , Pennycooke Earl , Armstrong David
Published: May 2019

Background

Much research attention has been given to the high rates of psychosis diagnosed in the Black community. However, little has been heard about possible reasons for this from Black African and Caribbean mental health service users themselves.

Aims

To determine how Black African and Caribbean service users perceive and explain these apparent differences.

Methods

We conducted four focus groups between 2014 and 2015 with 35 participants from the Black African and Black Caribbean community in Lambeth and Southwark, South East London, diagnosed with a psychotic illness. Recruitment was through a local voluntary sector organization and other community contacts.

Results

Each group described an elevated risk of psychosis in their community and explanations followed the following themes, with increased rates due to: (a) an accumulation of stressors due to disadvantaged ethnic minority status, (b) further disadvantage due to inequitable experiences of mental health services, (c) an absence of community support and (d) a double stigma: as a result of external discrimination, due to ethnicity, and internal stigma about mental illness from within the Black community itself.

Conclusions

Black mental health service users attributed an elevated risk of psychosis in their community to an accumulation of stressors directly related to ethnic minority status.
High strengthening effects and excellent wear resistance of Ti3Al(Si)C2 solid solutions
Authors: Wo Shaoshuai , Huang Zhenying , Cai Leping , Hu Wenqiang , Wang Yuanbo , Zhou Yang , Zhai Hongxiang
Published: May 2019

The Ti3Al1.2−xSixC2 (x = 0, 0.2, 0.4) powders were synthesized from Ti, Al, Si, and TiC powders, and nearly pure Ti3Al1.2−xSixC2 bulks were fabricated by the means of two‐time hot‐pressing method. Significant strengthening effect in bulks was found after the addition of 0.2 Si and 0.4 Si to form Ti3Al(Si)C2 solid solutions. The flexural strengths of Ti3AlSi0.2C2 and Ti3Al0.8Si0.4C2 were 485 and 554 MPa, 14% and 30% larger than the strength of Ti3AlC2, respectively. The Vickers hardness of these compounds were separately, 6.95 and 7.57 GPa, representing the enhancements of 37% and 49% over those of Ti3AlC2. The tribological behavior was studied by dry‐sliding method with a S45C steel at the sliding speed of 30 m/s and the normal load of 20‐80 N. The results showed that after incorporating different contents of Si, the friction coefficient was between 0.22 and 0.30, correspondingly lower wear rate was 3.19‐2.61 × 10−6 mm3/Nm. These excellent tribological performances were attributed to the presence of continuous self‐generated oxidized films during tribological examination. Finally, the phase compositions and microhardness of the oxidized films were analyzed and characterized.
Embracing the Paradox of Interorganizational Value Co‐creation–Value Capture: A Literature Review towards Paradox Resolution
Authors: Niesten Eva , Stefan Ioana
Published: May 2019

This study reviews literature on paradoxical tensions between value co‐creation and capture in interorganizational relationships (IORs). The purpose of this review is to make a re‐evaluation of the literature by engaging a paradox theory lens, thereby identifying factors that render tensions salient and factors that lead to virtuous or vicious cycles. This review of 143 articles reveals factors that make tensions salient: these relate to plurality (e.g. coopetition), scarcity (e.g. lack of experience with IORs), change (e.g. changes in collaboration scope) or combinations thereof (e.g. IORs in weak appropriability regimes). Results also uncover factors that resolve paradoxical tensions of value co‐creation and capture, thus spurring virtuous cycles (e.g. carefully mixing trust and contracts), as well as factors that promote vicious cycles, owing to the emphasis on either value co‐creation or capture (e.g. myopia of learning). This review further reveals a new category of factors that may stimulate either virtuous or vicious cycles, depending on the extent to which they are enforced. This finding expands the value co‐creation–capture paradox resolution and brings to light new dynamics in the paradox framework of dynamic equilibrium. This study thus contributes by: (1) reassessing the existing literature and applying paradox theory to the well‐known hazard of value co‐creation and capture; (2) highlighting factors that amplify paradoxical tensions related to this hazard; and (3) outlining factors that help solve the paradox by embracing its contradictory poles and factors that hinder paradox resolution by emphasizing either value co‐creation or appropriation.
A Crisis‐Driven Migration? Aspirations and Experiences of the Post‐2008 South European Migrants in London
Authors: Pratsinakis Manolis , King Russell , Himmelstine Carmen Leon , Mazzilli Caterina
Published: May 2019

Since the 1990s young South Europeans have been attracted to London by the dynamic labour market and cultural radiance of the city, but also pushed by unfavourable conditions in the labour markets of their origin countries. Subsequently, the Eurozone crisis, austerity politics and their socio‐political consequences have markedly intensified migration rates. But did they also signify a rupture in terms of the motivations, experiences and aspirations of the migrants? Drawing on in‐depth interviews with Greek, Italian and Spanish migrants of different educational levels, we find that post‐materialist motivations and pro‐migration dispositions prevail among the “crisis‐migrants”. Migration is seen and experienced as a step forward, rather than a disruptive force, signalling a positive message in defence of intra‐EU free mobility. Yet at times of neoliberal deregulation and economic and political uncertainty, aspirations for socio‐economic stability and settlement are also of growing importance, questioning mobility as the normative way of contemporary life.
Demonstration of SiO2/SiC‐based protective coating for dental ceramic prostheses
Authors: Chen Zhiting , Fares Chaker , Elhassani Randy , Ren Fan , Kim Mijin , Hsu Shu-Min , Clark Arthur E. , Esquivel‐Upshaw Josephine F.
Published: May 2019

SiO2/SiC coatings were deposited onto ceramics disks using plasma‐enhanced chemical vapor deposition. The effects of deposition pressure and gas‐flow ratio on the refractive index, extinction coefficient, and SiC composition were studied. For the highest studied SiH4 to CH4 gas‐flow ratio of 1.5, the refractive index increased by 17% from 2.53 (at the wavelength of 845 nm) to 2.96 (at the wavelength of 400 nm). For the lowest studied SiH4 to CH4 gas‐flow ratio of 0.5, the refractive index only increased by 4% from 2.11 (at the wavelength of 845 nm) to 2.20 (at the wavelength of 400 nm). At higher deposition pressures, the variation in refractive index of the SiC coatings was significantly lower showing a slight increase from 1.93 (at a wavelength of 845 nm) to 1.96 at a wavelength of 400 nm. Except for the case of a low SiH4 to CH4 gas‐flow ratio of 0.5, for light with wavelengths ≤650 nm, the extinction coefficient of the SiC coatings increased significantly. Light with a wavelength >650 nm had an extinction coefficient near 0 in all cases. After annealing the sample at 400°C for 4 hours, hydrogen‐related bonds broke and the stress of the film was reduced from −245 to −71 MPa. By utilizing different thicknesses of SiC, the full standard dental shade guide was matched with the ΔE of each coated disk being less than 3.3 compared to the shade guide.