bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Laser ablation for mesial temporal epilepsy: a multi-site, single institutional series
Authors: Grewal Sanjeet S. , Zimmerman Richard S. , Worrell Gregory , Brinkmann Benjamin H. , Tatum William O. , Crepeau Amy Z. , Woodrum David A. , Gorny Krzysztof R. , Felmlee Joel P. , Watson Robert E. , Hoxworth Joseph M. , Gupta Vivek , Vibhute Prasanna , Trenerry Max R. , Kaufmann Timothy J. , Marsh W. Richard , Wharen Robert E. , Van Gompel Jamie J.
Published: July 2018

OBJECTIVE

Although it is still early in its application, laser interstitial thermal therapy (LiTT) has increasingly been employed as a surgical option for patients with mesial temporal lobe epilepsy. This study aimed to describe mesial temporal lobe ablation volumes and seizure outcomes following LiTT across the Mayo Clinic’s 3 epilepsy surgery centers.

METHODS

This was a multi-site, single-institution, retrospective review of seizure outcomes and ablation volumes following LiTT for medically intractable mesial temporal lobe epilepsy between October 2011 and October 2015. Pre-ablation and post-ablation follow-up volumes of the hippocampus were measured using FreeSurfer, and the volume of ablated tissue was also measured on intraoperative MRI using a supervised spline-based edge detection algorithm. To determine seizure outcomes, results were compared between those patients who were seizure free and those who continued to experience seizures.

RESULTS

There were 23 patients who underwent mesial temporal LiTT within the study period. Fifteen patients (65%) had left-sided procedures. The median follow-up was 34 months (range 12–70 months). The mean ablation volume was 6888 mm3. Median hippocampal ablation was 65%, with a median amygdala ablation of 43%. At last follow-up, 11 (48%) of these patients were seizure free. There was no correlation between ablation volume and seizure freedom (p = 0.69). There was also no correlation between percent ablation of the amygdala (p = 0.28) or hippocampus (p = 0.82) and seizure outcomes. Twelve patients underwent formal testing with computational visual fields. Visual field changes were seen in 67% of patients who underwent testing. Comparing the 5 patients with clinically noticeable visual field deficits to the rest of the cohort showed no significant difference in ablation volume between those patients with visual field deficits and those without (p = 0.94). There were 11 patients with follow-up neuropsychological testing. Within this group, verbal learning retention was 76% in the patients with left-sided procedures and 89% in those with right-sided procedures.

CONCLUSIONS

In this study, there was no significant correlation between the ablation volume after LiTT and seizure outcomes. Visual field deficits were common in formally tested patients, much as in patients treated with open temporal lobectomy. Further studies are required to determine the role of amygdalohippocampal ablation.
Long-term and delayed functional recovery in patients with severe cerebrovascular and traumatic brain injury requiring tracheostomy
Authors: Wabl Rafael , Williamson Craig A. , Pandey Aditya S. , Rajajee Venkatakrishna
Published: July 2018

OBJECTIVE

Data on long-term functional recovery (LFR) following severe brain injury are essential for counseling of surrogates and for appropriate timing of outcome assessment in clinical trials. Delayed functional recovery (DFR) beyond 3–6 months is well documented following severe traumatic brain injury (sTBI), but there are limited data on DFR following severe cerebrovascular brain injury. The objective of this study was to assess LFR and DFR in patients with sTBI and severe stroke dependent on tracheostomy and tube feeding at the time of discharge from the intensive care unit (ICU).

METHODS

The authors identified patients entered into their tracheostomy database 2008–2013 with sTBI and severe stroke, encompassing SAH, intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH), and acute ischemic stroke (AIS). Eligibility criteria included disease-specific indicators of severity, Glasgow Coma Scale score < 9 at time of tracheostomy, and need for tracheostomy and tube feeding at ICU discharge. Assessment was at 1–3 months, 6–12 months, 12–24 months, and 24–36 months after initial injury for presence of tracheostomy, ability to walk, and ability to perform basic activities of daily living (B-ADLs). Long-term functional recovery (LFR) was defined as recovery of the ability to walk or perform B-ADLs by the 24- to 36-month follow-up. Delayed functional recovery (DFR) was defined as progression in functional milestones between any 2 time points beyond the 1- to 3-month follow-up.

RESULTS

A total of 129 patients met the eligibility criteria. Functional outcomes were available for 129 (100%), 97 (75%), 83 (64%), and 80 (62%) patients, respectively, from assessments at 1–3, 6–12, 12–24 and 24–36 months; 33 (26%) died by 24–36 months. Fifty-nine (46%) regained the ability to walk and 48 (37%) performed B-ADLs at some point during their recovery. Among survivors who had not achieved the respective milestone at 1–3 months, 29/58 (50%) were able to walk and 28/74 (38%) performed B-ADLs at 6–12 months. Among survivors who had not achieved the respective milestone at 6–12 months, 5/16 (31%) were able to walk and 13/30 (43%) performed B-ADLs at 12–24 months. There was no significant difference in rates of LFR or DFR between patients with sTBI and those with severe stroke.

CONCLUSIONS

Among patients with severe brain injury requiring tracheostomy and tube feeding at ICU discharge, 46% regained the ability to walk and 37% performed B-ADLs 2–3 years after injury. DFR beyond 1–3 and 6–12 months was seen in over 30% of survivors, with no significant difference between sTBI and severe stroke.
Novel suprasellar location of desmoplastic infantile astrocytoma and ganglioglioma: a single institution’s experience
Authors: Naylor Ryan M. , Wohl Anton , Raghunathan Aditya , Eckel Laurence J. , Keating Gesina F. , Daniels David J.
Published: July 2018

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to describe the clinical presentation, imaging appearance, and differential outcomes based on tumor location in 7 patients with desmoplastic infantile astrocytoma and desmoplastic infantile gangliogliomas (DIA/DIG).

METHODS

Data of 7 patients with histopathology-proven DIA/DIGs and preoperative imaging were retrospectively reviewed, and age, sex, clinical presentation, imaging characteristics, tumor location, surgical procedure, postoperative morbidity, and overall mortality were recorded.

RESULTS

Two subgroups of patients with DIA/DIGs were found to exist based on whether their tumor was located in the cerebral hemispheres or suprasellar region. Nearly all patients presented with rapidly enlarging head circumference regardless of tumor location. However, ocular abnormalities, including nystagmus and preference for downward gaze, were specific for patients with suprasellar disease. These patients experienced significant postoperative complications and had poor long-term outcomes. In contrast, patients with hemispheric tumors underwent more extensive resection than patients with suprasellar tumors, had uneventful postoperative courses, and had no documented long-term comorbidities.

CONCLUSIONS

Postoperative course and long-term outcome for patients with DIA/DIGs were correlated to the anatomical location and radiographic appearance of their tumor at presentation, despite having histologically and molecularly indistinguishable, WHO grade I tumors.
«Трансцендентные этюды» Ф. Листа и С. М. Ляпунова в русле философских и жанрово-стилевых исканий романтизма
Authors: Gultsova Diana
Published: July 2018

Цель статьи. Статья посвящена анализу жанрово-стилевой специфики «Трансцендентных этюдов» Ф. Листа и С. М. Ляпунова, рассматриваемых  в русле философско-эстетических исканий эпохи романтизма. Научная новизна. Трансцендентность названных сочинений очевидна не только в их предельно возросшем техническо-исполнительском мастерстве, но и в максимальном расширении типологии этюда, охватывающей как инструктивную риторическую сторону данного жанра, так и образно-смысловые «коды» романтического искусства в целом. Выводы. Обозначенные качества фортепианного творчества С. М. Ляпунова наиболее полно сконцентрированы в его «12-ти этюдах», которые были задуманы как своеобразное продолжение аналогичного листовского цикла.Ключевые слова: этюд, романтизм, «трансцендентный этюд», трансцендентное в культуре романтизма, виртуоз, виртуозность.
Музыкальный ремикс как фактор формирования философии «рингтонной» культуры.
Authors: Тaganov Оleg
Published: July 2018

Цель статьи - рассмотреть основные различия между ремиксом (использующим преимущественно классический музыкальный тематизм) и другими музыкальными жанрами похожей направленности, проанализировать его роль и место в формировании и функционировании современной «рингтонной» культуры.  Методология: данное исследование опирается на культурологический, аксиологический, историографический и  жанровый подходы.   Научная новизна. Проблема современного развития музыкальных жанров в сфере легкой и популярной музыки поднимается в этой статье в конкретизированном рассмотрении жанра ремикса (главным образом классических тем и произведений).  Выводы. Снижение аксиологических критериев при создании произведений в этом жанре по сравнению с подобными жанрами в прошлом обусловливает резкое падение музыкального вкуса и делает невозможной передачу и усвоение высоких художественных образцов музыки предшествующих эпох. С проблемой ускорения современной жизни и нехваткой времени для эстетичного и духовного саморазвития возникает возможность использования жанров типа ремикса как суррогата творческого поиска. Они формируют новые подходы и философию современного псевдо-культурной человека в рамках «рингтонной» культуры.Ключевые слова: «рингтонная» культура,  ремикс, транскрипция, аранжировка
Лейтмотивитизм цикла «Интермеццо» ор. 4 Роберта Шумана
Authors: Do Lu
Published: July 2018

Цель статьи – проанализировать жанр Интермеццо для фортепиано в творчестве Р. Шумана с точки зрения лейтмотивной системы. Методология: в статье применены текстологический, аналитический, и компаративный подходы. Научная новизна: в статье рассмотрены черты лейтмотивизма в фортепианных Интермеццо ор. 4 Р. Шумана, показана роль лейтмотивной системы в Интермеццо Р. Шумана, выявляются различные сложнейшие взаимосвязи между Интермеццо и доказывается их единство, цикличность, сюитность. Выводы: рассмотрев пьесы сюитного цикла Интермеццо Роберта Шумана, приходим к выводу, что все пьесы данного сюитного цикла находятся в определенном вариантно-вариационном соотношении и взаимосвязаны между собой лейтинтонациями, лейтмотивами, лейтгармонией, лейтритмом, лейттемами, лейтобразами. Таким образом, изучение фортепианного цикла «Интермеццо» Роберта Шумана становится актуальной проблемой музыкознания и исполнительства.Ключевые слова: Роберт Шуман, Интермеццо, лейтмотивная система, жанр, вариантно-вариационное соотношение, лейтинтонация, лейтмотив, лейтгармония, лейтритм, лейттема, лейтобраз.
МЕТОДИЧНІ НОВАЦІЇ Я. ПУХАЛЬСЬКОГО У БАНДУРНОМУ ТЕОРЕТИКО-МЕТОДИЧНОМУ ДОРОБКУ СУЧАСНОСТІ
Authors: Broiako Nadiia
Published: July 2018

Метою роботи є висвітлення методичного доробку у галузі бандурного виконавства талановитого гітариста, педагога по класу гітари, домри та бандури, методиста, майстра-реставратора, дослідника Яна Генріховича Пухальського, де вперше описані деталі роботи над комплексом ігрових бандурних рухів, підкреслено вплив акцентуації у вправах на розвиток слухового сприйняття, аргументовано необхідність опори на струну. Методологія дослідження полягає у використанні таких методів, як аналіз та узагальнення, а також компаративного методу, які дозволяють детально дослідити процес формування методичних новацій у теоретичному доробку Я. Пухальського.. Наукова новизна. Вперше у бандурній методології зафіксовано та теоретично обґрунтовано поняття «цілеспрямовані рухи пальцями», описано складний базовий ігровий комплекс рухів, приділено увагу постановці та технічній віртуозності правої руки, питанням звуковидобування та технології опанування приготувальних та робочих ігрових рухів. Детальні та ретельно продумані рекомендації великого майстра надзвичайно цікаві та можуть принести вагому користь молодим музикантам. Висновки. У роботі Я. Пухальського викладено цілісну систему поглядів на формування рухово-звукової сфери майстерності бандуриста, що ґрунтується на багаторічній плідній діяльності автора. Оригінальність мислення, новизна ряду положень, уміння тонко аналізувати і спостерігати, а потім точно і лаконічно викладати, теоретично обґрунтовувати свої думки виокремлюють «Методику навчання грі на бандурі» як новаторську у бандурному теоретико-методичному доробку сучасності.Ключові слова: бандура, методологія, гармонія, виконавська техніка.
Digitally deconstructing ‘straw man’ and ‘wicker man’ arguments: A software-aided pedagogy
Authors: O’Halloran Kieran
Published: July 2018

This article models a software-based pedagogy, targetted at undergraduates, for assisting with detection and deconstruction of straw man arguments. The pedagogy is useful particularly where the student is unfamiliar with the standpoint attacked in the argument, where the text describing the standpoint is large and where the argument is lengthy too. I use a digital text analysis tool – Sketch Engine – to help reveal and deconstruct a straw man argument which misrepresents one specific aspect of a book. I then go on to use this tool in combination with another digital text analysis tool – WMatrix – to demonstrate too how the book’s wider standpoints conflict with the argument’s framing. I thus also show the argument to be a much bigger straw man, what I refer to as a wicker man. Advantages of using the digital tools are that (i) they efficiently set the student up to judge whether or not central topics in a large text being attacked are relevant absences from the argument attacking that text; (ii) the potential for arbitrariness in judging whether or not the argument is a straw man or a wicker man is significantly reduced, making in principle for scrupulous evaluation.
Radiation Therapy as Definitive Local Treatment in Patients with Limited-Stage Small Cell Carcinoma of the Bladder: Does total dose matter?
Authors: Germino Elizabeth , Fischer-Valuck Benjamin W. , Rudra Soumon , Rao Yuan James , Contreras Jessika , Abraham Christopher , Michalski Jeff , Gay Hiram
Published: July 2018

Purpose:

To determine whether total radiation dose affects survival outcomes for patients with small cell carcinoma of the bladder (SCCB).

Methods:

We queried the National Cancer Database (NCDB) for patients with limited stage SCCB undergoing multimodality treatment and retrospectively analyzed survival outcomes according to total radiation dose received.

Results:

Patients aged 41–79 receiving a total radiation dose of 54 Gy or greater had a significant improvement in overall survival compared to those receiving less than 54 Gy, with a median overall survival of 58.9 months (95% confidence interval [CI] 37.2–80.6 months) compared to 21.5 months (95% CI 15.2 –27.8 months) ( p < 0.05). There was no difference in outcomes for patients receiving between 54 and 60 Gy compared to those receiving 60 Gy or higher. There was also no difference in outcomes based on total radiation dose for patients 80 years and older.

Conclusions:

For patients aged 79 or younger with limited stage SCCB, total radiation dose of 54 Gy or greater is associated with better overall survival.
Design of Epidemic Computer Virus Model with Effect of Quarantine in the Presence of Immunity
Authors: Masood Zaheer , Majeed Khalid , Samar Raza , Raja Muhammad Asif Zahoor
Published: July 2018

The aim of this study is to develop an autonomous epidemic virus model to depict the transmission of malicious computer code in active networks with pre-existing immunity and quarantine as effective control strategies. Due to the rapid spread of computer viruses and a delay in the update of antivirus signature database, the role of quarantine as a controlling mechanism has gained importance. The existence of disease free equilibrium point and its stability, as well as the existence of endemic equilibrium point and its stability are explored in terms of basic reproduction number R0. The model exhibits two equilibria points: disease free equilibrium and endemic equilibrium. Numerical simulations are performed to analyze the dynamics of the model in the presence of controlling mechanisms and in the absence of up-to-date antivirus software in terms of accuracy and convergence. The model interpretation invokes interesting inferences for effective quarantine strategy, with or without immunity and control mechanisms for security holes and zero-day vulnerabilities.
Age-Dependent Changes in the Sarkosyl-Insoluble Proteome of APPSWE/PS1ΔE9 Transgenic Mice Implicate Dysfunctional Mitochondria in the Pathogenesis of Alzheimer’s Disease
Authors: Thygesen Camilla , Metaxas Athanasios , Larsen Martin R. , Finsen Bente
Published: July 2018

Background:

Alzheimer’s disease (AD), the most common cause of dementia, is characterized by the intra- and extracellular aggregation and accumulation of proteins. The major molecular hallmark is the aggregation of amyloid- β (A β) and hyperphosphorylated tau proteins into plaques and tangles, respectively. Evidence points to the pre-fibrillary states of protein aggregates harboring the greatest neurotoxicity.

Objective:

This study was designed to identify and quantify pre-fibrillary protein species enriched by their insolubility in the detergent sarkosyl in the APPSWE/PS1ΔE9 (APP/PS1) transgenic mouse model of AD. Sarkosyl insoluble fractions were isolated from the brains of APP/PS1 and littermate wild type (Wt) mice to identify pre-fibrillary protein species associated with AD.

Methods:

Pre-fibrillary protein species were isolated from the brains of 3- and 24-month-old APP/PS1 and littermate Wt mice using sarkosyl extraction and subjected to quantitative proteomics analysis by the use of isobaric tags for relative and absolute quantitation (iTRAQ).

Results:

The sarkosyl-insoluble pre-fibrillary proteome showed differential age- and genotype-induced effects. In addition to A β and tau, old APP/PS1 mice showed significant enrichment in proteins in the sarkosyl fraction involved in oxidative phosphorylation and mitochondrial function.

Conclusion:

The results of this study implicate dysfunctional mitochondria as playing a key role of A β- and potentially tau-induced pathological events in the APP/PS1 transgenic mouse model of AD.
Sleep and EEG Power Spectral Analysis in Three Transgenic Mouse Models of Alzheimer’s Disease: APP/PS1, 3xTgAD, and Tg2576
Authors: Kent Brianne A. , Strittmatter Stephen M. , Nygaard Haakon B.
Published: July 2018

Background:

Sleep disturbances have long been associated with Alzheimer’s disease (AD), and there is a growing interest in how these disturbances might impact AD pathophysiology. Despite this growing interest, surprisingly little is known about how sleep architecture and the broader neuronal network are affected in widely used transgenic mouse models of AD.

Objective:

We analyzed sleep and electroencephalography (EEG) power in three transgenic mouse models of AD, using identical and commercially available hardware and analytical software. The goal was to assess the suitability of these mouse lines to model sleep and the broader neuronal network dysfunction measured by EEG in AD.

Methods:

Tg2576, APP/PS1, and 3xTgAD transgenic AD mice were studied using in vivo EEG recordings for sleep/wake time and power spectral analysis.

Results:

Both the APP/PS1 model at 8– 10 months and the Tg2576 model at 12 months of age exhibited stage-dependent decreases in theta and delta power, and shifts in the power spectra toward higher frequencies. Stage-dependent power spectral analyses showed no changes in the 3xTgAD model at 18 months of age. The percentage of time spent awake, in non-rapid eye movement sleep (NREM), or in rapid-eye-movement sleep (REM) was not different between genotypes in any of the transgenic lines.

Conclusion:

Our findings are consistent with data from several other transgenic AD models as well as certain studies in patients with mild cognitive impairment. Further studies will be needed to better understand the correlation between EEG spectra and AD pathophysiology, both in AD models and the human condition.
EEG Theta Power Is an Early Marker of Cognitive Decline in Dementia due to Alzheimer’s Disease
Authors: Musaeus Christian Sandøe , Engedal Knut , Høgh Peter , Jelic Vesna , Mørup Morten , Naik Mala , Oeksengaard Anne-Rita , Snaedal Jon , Wahlund Lars-Olof , Waldemar Gunhild , Andersen Birgitte Bo
Published: July 2018

Background:

Quantitative EEG (qEEG) power could potentially be used as a diagnostic tool for Alzheimer’s disease (AD) and may further our understanding of the pathophysiology. However, the early qEEG power changes of AD are not well understood.

Objective:

To investigate the early changes in qEEG power and the possible correlation with memory function and cerebrospinal fluid biomarkers. In addition, whether qEEG power could discriminate between AD, mild cognitive impairment (MCI), and older healthy controls (HC) at the individual level.

Methods:

Standard EEGs from 138 HC, 117 MCI, and 117 AD patients were included from six Nordic memory clinics. All EEGs were recorded consecutively before the diagnosis and were not used for the consensus diagnosis. Absolute and relative power was calculated for both eyes closed and open condition.

Results:

At group level using relative power, we found significant increases globally in the theta band and decreases in high frequency power in the temporal regions for eyes closed for AD and, to a lesser extent, for MCI compared to HC. Relative theta power was significantly correlated with multiple neuropsychological measures and had the largest correlation coefficient with total tau. At the individual level, the classification rate for AD and HC was 72.9% for relative power with eyes closed.

Conclusion:

Our findings suggest that the increase in relative theta power may be the first change in patients with dementia due to AD. At the individual level, we found a moderate classification rate for AD and HC when using EEGs alone.
What Factors Predict Family Caregivers’ Attendance at Dementia Cafés?
Authors: Jones Susan May , Killett Anne , Mioshi Eneida
Published: July 2018

Background:

Dementia Cafés are community support groups which provide post-diagnostic support for families affected by dementia. However, little is known about the characteristics of caregivers who attend Cafés.

Objectives:

To describe the demographic and psychosocial characteristics of caregivers who attend Dementia Cafés, and to identify which of those factors may influence the likelihood of family caregivers attending Dementia Cafés.

Methods:

A cross-sectional study on caregivers ( n = 80; July 2016– July 2017). Resilience (Brief Resilient Coping Scale), Subjective Wellbeing (Personal Wellbeing Index), and Social Support (MOS-Social Support Survey) were measured. Café attendees and non-attendees were compared in regards to demographic characteristics (Chi-Square tests), resilience, subjective wellbeing and social support (independent t-tests). Bivariate and multivariate regression analyses were run to detect associations between predictor variables and café attendance.

Results:

Caregivers who attended Cafés reported higher resilience (OR: 1.26; 95% CI 1.10–1.45; p = 0.001) and subjective wellbeing (OR: 1.63; 95% CI 1.24–2.142; p = 0.001); no significant difference in social support was detected. Female caregivers were more likely to attend a Café (OR: 3.23; 95% CI 1.14–9.10; p = 0.03). However, only higher subjective wellbeing (OR: 1.63; 95% CI 1.10–24.2; p = 0.02) and fewer years formal education (OR: 4.99; 95% CI 1.12–21.36; p = 0.03) predicted attendance at a café.

Conclusion:

Dementia Cafés may bring about benefits in resilience and subjective wellbeing, or may be best suited to those with higher resilience and wellbeing. Cafes are not being accessed by all caregiver groups. Alternative models of post-diagnostic support should be considered to increase equity of care.
Increased separability of K-edge nanoparticles by photon-counting detectors for spectral micro-CT
Authors: Getzin Matthew , Garfield Josephine J. , Rundle David S. , Kruger Uwe , Butler Anthony P.H. , Gkikas Manos , Wang Ge
Published: July 2018

BACKGROUND:

X-ray CT/micro-CT methods with photon-counting detectors (PCDs) and high Z materials are a hot research topic. One method using PCDs allows for spectral imaging in 5 energy windows while conventional X-ray detectors only collect energy-integrating data.

OBJECTIVE:

To demonstrate the enhanced separation of contrast materials by using PCDs, multivariate analysis, and linear discriminant methods.

METHODS:

Phantoms containing iodine and aqueous nanomaterials were scanned on a MARS spectral micro-CT. Image volumes were segmented into separate material-specific populations. Contrast comparisons were made by calculating T2 test statistics in the univariate, pseudo-conventional and multivariate, spectral CT data sets. Separability after Fisher discriminant analysis (FDA) was also assessed.

RESULTS:

The T2 values calculated for material comparisons increased as a result of the spectral expansion. The majority of the tested contrast agents showed increased T2 values by a factor of ∼2 -3. The total significant T2 statistics in the pure and mixed lanthanide image sets increased in the spectral data set.

CONCLUSION:

This work consolidates the groundwork for photon-counting-based material decomposition with micro-CT, facilitating future development of novel nanomaterials and their preclinical applications.
Traffic-Estimation-Based Low-Latency XGS-PON Mobile Front-Haul for Small-Cell C-RAN Based on an Adaptive Learning Neural Network
Authors: Mikaeil Ahmed Mohammed , Hu Weisheng , Hussain Syed Baqar , Sultan Amber
Published: July 2018

In this paper, we propose a novel method for low-latency 10-Gigabit-capable symmetric passive optical network (XGS-PON) mobile front-haul for small cell cloud radio access network (C-RAN) based on traffic estimation. In this method, the number of packets that arrive to the optical network unit (ONU) buffer from the remote radio unit (RRU) link is predicted using an adaptive learning neural network function integrated into the dynamic bandwidth allocation (DBA) module at the optical line terminal (OLT). By using this predictive method, we are able to eliminate the additional DBA processing delay and the delay required for reporting ONU buffer occupancy to the OLT. As a result, the latency is as low as required for mobile front-haul in C-RAN architecture. The performance of the new method is evaluated by means of simulation under XGS-PON standard. The simulation results confirmed the capability of the proposed method of achieving the latency requirement for mobile front-haul while outperforming some other XGS-PON standard compliant algorithms that are optimized to support mobile front-haul and backhaul traffic.
Biocatalytic Synthesis of Fungal β-Glucans
Authors: Papaspyridi Lefki-Maria , Zerva Anastasia , Topakas Evangelos
Published: July 2018

Glucans are the dominant polysaccharide constituents of fungal cell walls. Remarkably, these major bioactive polysaccharides account for the beneficial effects that have been observed by many mushrooms of medicinal interest. Accordingly, the prevailing tendency is the use of bioactive mushroom β-glucans mainly in pharmaceutical industries or as food additives, since it seems that they can be involved in meeting the overall growing demand for food in the future, but also in medical and material sectors. β-(1,3)-Glucan synthase (GLS) is the responsible enzyme for the synthesis of these important polysaccharides, which is a member of the glycosyl transferase (GT) family. For optimizing the production of such natural polymers of great interest, the comprehension of the fungal synthetic mechanism, as well as the biochemical and molecular characteristics of the key enzyme GLS and its expression seem to be crucial. Overall, in this review article, the fungal β-glucans biosynthesis by GLS is summarized, while the in vitro synthesis of major polysaccharides is also discussed, catalyzed by glycoside hydrolases (GHs) and GTs. Possible future prospects of GLS in medicine and in developing other potential artificial composite materials with industrial applications are also summarized.
Study of the Grape Cryo-Maceration Process at Different Temperatures
Authors: Naviglio Daniele , Formato Andrea , Scaglione Giampiero , Montesano Domenico , Pellegrino Arcangelo , Villecco Francesco , Gallo Monica
Published: July 2018

This research aimed to determine the effects of cryo-maceration at different temperatures on polyphenol content during the winemaking process of Chardonnay wine. Samples of Chardonnay grapes were subjected to rapid cooling processes by direct injection of liquid CO2 to obtain final temperatures of 10.0, 8.0, 6.0 and 4.0 °C and yield different batches of grape mash. Subsequently, each batch underwent the winemaking process to produce four different wines. The wines obtained were characterized by chemical analyses. We observed higher extraction of polyphenolic compounds with low-temperature cold maceration, particularly when the temperature was reduced from 10.0 to 6.0 °C. Conversely, when the temperature was reduced below 6.0 °C, the increase in polyphenol content in wine was negligible, whereas CO2 consumption increased. Furthermore, a numerical simulation was performed to determine the pipe length, L0, after which the temperature was constant. This condition is very important because it guarantees that after the length L0, the thermodynamic exchange between liquid CO2 and is complete, eliminating the possibility of liquid CO2 pockets in the cyclone.
Physical Health Mediates the Relationship between Psychological Well-Being and Engagement in Exercise across Age in a German Sample
Authors: Minahan Jillian , Siedlecki Karen L.
Published: July 2018

The prevalence of chronic illness among middle-aged and older adults is increasing worldwide as the population continues to age. One way to prevent the continued increase and subsequent negative outcomes of chronic illness is to increase the number of individuals who engage in exercise. Thus, it is important to examine which factors predict engagement in exercise in middle-aged and older adults. As a result, the current study examined the relationship between physical health, psychological well-being, and engagement in exercise in a sample of middle-aged and older German adults. We found that increased age was associated with less frequent engagement in exercise. We also found that physical health mediated the relationship between psychological well-being and engagement in exercise. Finally, we found that age did not moderate the relationship between subjective well-being and engagement in exercise, suggesting that the role of physical health as a mediator was similar in older adults compared to middle-aged adults. These findings have important implications for interventions seeking to promote exercise among adults.
Predictive value of scoring system in severe pediatric head injury
Authors: Grinkevičiūtė Dovilė , Kėvalas Rimantas , Šaferis Viktoras , Matukevičius Algimantas , Ragaišis Vytautas , Tamašauskas Arimantas
Published: July 2018

Objectives. To determine the threshold values of Pediatric Index of Mortality 2 (PIM 2) score, Pediatric Trauma Score (PTS), and Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS) score for mortality in children after severe head injury and to evaluate changes in outcomes of children after severe head injury on discharge and after 6 months. Material and methods. All children with severe head injury admitted to the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit of Kaunas University of Medicine Hospital, Lithuania, from January 2004 to June 2006 were prospectively included in the study. The severity of head injury was categorized according to the GCS score ≤8. As initial assessment tools, the PTS, postresuscitation GCS, and PIM 2 scores were calculated for each patient. Outcome was assessed according to Glasgow Outcome Scale on discharge and after 6 months. Results. The study population consisted of 59 children with severe head injury. The group consisted of 37 (62.7%) boys and 22(37.3%) girls; the mean age was 10.6±6.02. The mean GCS, PTS, and PIM 2 scores were 5.9±1.8, 4.8±2.7, and 14.0±19.5, respectively. In terms of overall outcome, 46 (78.0%) patients survived and 13 (22.0%) died. All three scales appeared to be significant predictors of death. Threshold values for which potential mortality in children after severe head injury increased were 10.75 for PIM 2, 3 for PTS and 5 for GCS. PIM 2 score provided the best discrimination between survivors and nonsurvivors. Conclusions. The threshold values for mortality in children after severe head trauma were PIM 2≥10.75%, PTS≤3 and GCS≤5, and these values were significant risk factors of death in severely head injured children. The changes in outcome for survivals on discharge and after 6 months were statistically significant.
Inequalities in life expectancy by education and socioeconomic transition in Lithuania
Authors: Kalėdienė Ramunė , Starkuvienė Skirmantė , Petrauskienė Jadvyga
Published: July 2018

Objective. To present changes in life expectancy of males and females by the level of educational achievement and describe different aspects of inequalities in life expectancy over the decade of socioeconomic transition in Lithuania. Material and methods. This analysis is based on routine mortality statistics and census data for 1989 and 2001 for the entire country. The study included the population more than 25 years of age. Results. Increasing inequalities in life expectancy by education have occurred due to increasing life expectancy amongst persons with higher educational achievements, and conversely, a declining life expectancy in groups with low levels of education. Cardiovascular diseases were responsible for the greatest number of years lost in life expectancy by all educational categories both in males and females. The numbers of years lost due to cardiovascular diseases decreased in majority of educational categories, particularly in lower secondary educational group. The increase in the years of life expectancy lost was observed due to external causes of death, the higher education being associated with the lower numbers of years lost, especially in females. The greatest impact on the difference in life expectancy between males with university and primary education was caused by external causes both in 1989 and 2001, while the major contribution to the educational differences in life expectancy of females was made by cardiovascular diseases. Conclusions. Favorable forecast of declining health inequalities by education in Lithuania can hardly be expected in the nearest future. Collective efforts and constructive actions should address the health problems of the least privileged groups in terms of education, as well as promotional efforts directed at young people to complete their education and guarantee of equal opportunities for education.
The Effect of Pressurized Decarbonization of CO on Inhibiting the Adhesion of Fine Iron Ore Particles
Authors: Xu Qiyan , Li Zhiping , Liu Zhuangzhuang , Wang Jianjun , Wang Haichuan
Published: July 2018

In this research, Australian fine iron ore is reduced by pressured carbon monoxide in a fluidized bed. This research aims to obtain the influence law of gas linear velocity, reduction pressure, reduction temperature, particle size, and reduction time on the reduction effect and the economic, convenient, and effective operating parameters, as well as clarify the effect of the pressurized decarbonization of CO, which inhibits the adhesion of fine iron ore particles during the reduction process. The experimental results show that the preferable operating parameters are a linear velocity of 0.8 m/s, reduction pressure of 0.2 MPa, reduction temperature of 1023 K, and particle size of 0.18 mm–0.66 mm. The graphite produced by the carbon precipitation reaction of carbon monoxide hinders the diffusion of iron atoms and avoids the direct contact between the iron atoms, thereby effectively controlling the sticking.
Application of Docking Analysis in the Prediction and Biological Evaluation of the Lipoxygenase Inhibitory Action of Thiazolyl Derivatives of Mycophenolic Acid
Authors: Tsolaki Evangelia , Eleftheriou Phaedra , Kartsev Victor , Geronikaki Athina , Saxena Anil K.
Published: July 2018

5-LOX inhibition is among the desired characteristics of anti-inflammatory drugs, while 15-LOX has also been considered as a drug target. Similarity in inhibition behavior between soybean LOX-1 and human 5-LOX has been observed and soybean LOX (sLOX) type 1b has been used for the evaluation of LOX inhibition in drug screening for years. After prediction of LOX inhibition by PASS and docking as well as toxicity by PROTOX and ToxPredict sixteen (E)-N-(thiazol-2-yl)-6-(4-hydroxy-6-methoxy-7-methyl-3-oxo-1,3-dihydroisobenzofuran-5-yl)-4-methylhex-4-enamide derivatives with lengths varying from about 15–20 Å were evaluated in vitro for LOX inhibitory action using the soybean lipoxygenase sLOX 1b. Docking analysis was performed using soybean LOX L-1 (1YGE), soybean LOX-3 (1JNQ), human 5-LOX (3O8Y and 3V99) and mammalian 15-LOX (1LOX) structures. Different dimensions of target center and docking boxes and a cavity prediction algorithm were used. The compounds exhibited inhibitory action between 2.5 μΜ and 165 μΜ. Substituents with an electronegative atom at two-bond proximity to position 4 of the thiazole led to enhanced activity. Docking results indicated that the LOX structures 1JNQ, 3V99 and 1LOX can effectively be used for estimation of LOX inhibition and amino acid interactions of these compounds.
Synthesis of a Novel Fluorescent Ruthenium Complex with an Appended Ac4GlcNAc Moiety by Click Reaction
Authors: Cheng Qi , Cui Yalu , Xiao Nao , Lu Jishun , Fang Chen-Jie
Published: July 2018

The O-linked β-N-acetylglucosamine (O-GlcNAc) modification is an abundant post-translational modification in eukaryotic cells, which plays a fundamental role in the activity of many cells and is associated with pathologies like type II diabetes, Alzheimer’s disease or some cancers. However, the precise connexion between O-GlcNAc-modified proteins and their function in cells is largely undefined for most cases. Confocal microscopy is a powerful and effective tool for in-cell elucidation of the function of biological molecules. Chemical labeling of non-ultraviolet or non-fluorescent carbohydrates with fluorescent tag is an essential step that makes intra-cellular microscopic inspection possible. Here we report a strategy based on the 1,3-dipolar cycloaddition, called click chemistry, between unnatural N-acetylglucosamine (GlcNAc) analogues Ac4GlcNAc (substituted with an azido group) and the corresponding fluorescent tag Ru(bpy)2(Phen-alkyne)Cl2 (4) to synthesize the fluorescent dye Ru(bpy)2(Phen-Ac4GlcNAc)Cl2 (5) under mild and neutral reaction conditions. Moreover, 5 showed good stability, desirable fluorescence characteristics, and exhibited rather low levels of cytotoxicity against sensitive MCF-7 cells. Additionally, we have achieved successful fluorescent imaging of 5 transported in living MCF-7 cells. Cell images displayed that proteins are potentially labelled with 5 in the cytoplasm.
General Method for the Synthesis of (−)-Conduritol C and Analogs from Chiral Cyclohexadienediol Scaffolds
Authors: Tibhe Gaurao D. , Macías Mario A. , Schapiro Valeria , Suescun Leopoldo , Pandolfi Enrique
Published: July 2018

An efficient and facile general method for the synthesis of conduritol C analogs, taking advantage of an enantioselective biocatalysis process of monosubstituted benzenes, is described. The absolute stereochemical patterns of the target molecules (−)-conduritol C, (−)-bromo-conduritol C, and (−)-methyl-conduritol C were achieved by means of chemoenzymatic methods. The stereochemistry present at the homochiral cyclohexadiene-cis-1,2-diols derived from the arene biotransformation and the enantioselective ring opening of a non-isolated vinylepoxide derivative permitted the absolute configuration of the carbon bearing the hydroxyl groups at the target molecules to be established. All three conduritols and two intermediates were crystallized, and their structures were confirmed by X-ray diffraction. The three conduritols and intermediates were isostructural. The versatility of our methodology is noteworthy to expand the preparation of conduritol C analogs starting from toluene dioxygenase (TDO) monosubstituted arene substrates.
Effect of Dibutyltin Dilaurate on Triglyceride Metabolism through the Inhibition of the mTOR Pathway in Human HL7702 Liver Cells
Authors: Qiao Xiaozhi , Li Yunlan , Mai Jiaqi , Ji Xiaoqing , Li Qingshan
Published: July 2018

Dibutyltin dilaurate (DBTD) has multiple applications in daily life. However, DBTD is easily deposited in the liver and affects liver functions. This study was designed to explore the effects of DBTD on triglyceride metabolism in human normal hepatocyte HL7702 cells. Our results showed that the intracellular fat contents were dose-dependently decreased by DBTD. The expression of lipolysis genes and proteins were elevated while the lipogenesis genes and proteins were diminished by DBTD. The phosphorylation levels of ribosomal S6 kinase 1 were reduced by both rapamycin and DBTD, indicating that the mTOR pathway was suppressed possibly. The decreased sterol regulatory element-binding protein 1C (SREBP1C) transcription levels, as well as the increased peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor alpha (PPARα) transcription levels, caused by rapamycin and DBTD corresponded to the inactive mTOR pathway. In conclusion, it was possible that DBTD reduced the intracellular triglyceride through depressing the mTOR pathway and affecting its downstream transcription factors.
Design, Synthesis and Characterization of Novel Co-Polymers Decorated with Peptides for the Selective Nanoparticle Transport across the Cerebral Endothelium
Authors: Falanga Andrea P. , Melone Pietro , Cagliani Roberta , Borbone Nicola , D’Errico Stefano , Piccialli Gennaro , Netti Paolo A. , Guarnieri Daniela
Published: July 2018

The development of new strategies for enhancing drug delivery to the brain represents a major challenge in treating cerebral diseases. In this paper, we report on the synthesis and structural characterization of a biocompatible nanoparticle (NP) made up of poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA)-polyethylene glycol (PEG) co-polymer (namely PELGA) functionalized with the membranotropic peptide gH625 (gH) and the iron-mimicking peptide CRTIGPSVC (CRT) for transport across the blood-brain barrier (BBB). gH possesses a high translocation potency of the cell membrane. Conversely, CRT selectively recognizes the brain endothelium, which interacts with transferrin (Tf) and its receptor (TfR) through a non-canonical ligand-directed mechanism. We hypothesize that the delivery across the BBB of PELGA NPs should be efficiently enhanced by the NP functionalization with both gH and CRT. Synthesis of peptides and their conjugation to the PLGA as well as NP physical-chemical characterization are performed. Moreover, NP uptake, co-localization, adhesion under dynamic conditions, and permeation across in vitro BBB model are evaluated as a function of gH/CRT functionalization ratio. Results establish that the cooperative effect of CRT and gH may change the intra-cellular distribution of NPs and strengthen NP delivery across the BBB at the functionalization ratio 33% gH–66% CRT.
Fermi-LAT Observations of LIGO/Virgo Event GW170817
Authors: Ajello M. , Allafort A. , Axelsson M. , Baldini L. , Barbiellini G. , Baring M. G. , Bastieri D. , Bellazzini R. , Berenji B. , Bissaldi E. , Blandford R. D. , Bloom E. D. , Bonino R. , Bottacini E. , Brandt T. J. , Bregeon J. , Bruel P. , Buehler R. , Burnett T. H. , Buson S. , Cameron R. A. , Caputo R. , Caraveo P. A. , Casandjian J. M. , Cavazzuti E. , Chekhtman A. , Cheung C. C. , Chiang J. , Chiaro G. , Ciprini S. , Cohen-Tanugi J. , Cominsky L. R. , Costantin D. , Cuoco A. , Cutini S. , D’Ammando F. , Palma F. de , Lalla N. Di , Mauro M. Di , Venere L. Di , Dubois R. , Dumora D. , Favuzzi C. , Ferrara E. C. , Franckowiak A. , Fukazawa Y. , Funk S. , Fusco P. , Gargano F. , Gasparrini D. , Giglietto N. , Gill R. , Giordano F. , Giroletti M. , Glanzman T. , Granot J. , Green D. , Grenier I. A. , Grondin M.-H. , Guillemot L. , Guiriec S. , Harding A. K. , Hays E. , Horan D. , Imazato F. , Jóhannesson G. , Kamae T. , Kensei S. , Kocevski D. , Kuss M. , Mura G. La , Larsson S. , Latronico L. , Li J. , Longo F. , Loparco F. , Lovellette M. N. , Lubrano P. , Magill J. D. , Maldera S. , Manfreda A. , Mazziotta M. N. , Michelson P. F. , Mizuno T. , Moiseev A. A. , Monzani M. E. , Moretti E. , Morselli A. , Moskalenko I. V. , Negro M. , Nuss E. , Ojha R. , Omodei N. , Orlando E. , Ormes J. F. , Palatiello M. , Paliya V. S. , Paneque D. , Persic M. , Pesce-Rollins M. , Petrosian V. , Piron F. , Porter T. A. , Principe G. , Racusin J. L. , Rainò S. , Rando R. , Razzano M. , Razzaque S. , Reimer A. , Reimer O. , Ritz S. , Rochester L. S. , Ryde F. , Parkinson P. M. Saz , Sgrò C. , Siskind E. J. , Spada F. , Spandre G. , Spinelli P. , Suson D. J. , Tajima H. , Takahashi M. , Tak D. , Thayer J. G. , Thayer J. B. , Torres D. F. , Torresi E. , Tosti G. , Troja E. , Valverde J. , Venters T. M. , Vianello G. , Wood K. , Yang C. , Zaharijas G.
Published: July 2018

We present the Fermi Large Area Telescope (LAT) observations of the binary neutron star merger event GW170817 and the associated short gamma-ray burst (SGRB) GRB 170817A detected by the Fermi Gamma-ray Burst Monitor. The LAT was entering the South Atlantic Anomaly at the time of the LIGO/Virgo trigger (t
GW) and therefore cannot place constraints on the existence of high-energy (E > 100 MeV) emission associated with the moment of binary coalescence. We focus instead on constraining high-energy emission on longer timescales. No candidate electromagnetic counterpart was detected by the LAT on timescales of minutes, hours, or days after the LIGO/Virgo detection. The resulting flux upper bound (at 95% C.L.) from the LAT is 4.5 × 10−10 erg cm−2 s−1 in the 0.1–1 GeV range covering a period from t
GW + 1153 s to t
GW + 2027 s. At the distance of GRB 170817A, this flux upper bound corresponds to a luminosity upper bound of 9.7 × 1043 erg s−1, which is five orders of magnitude less luminous than the only other LAT SGRB with known redshift, GRB 090510. We also discuss the prospects for LAT detection of electromagnetic counterparts to future gravitational-wave events from Advanced LIGO/Virgo in the context of GW170817/GRB 170817A.