bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The development and effects of the Ontario Farming and Food Production Protection Act, 1998
Authors: Best Anna
Published: September 2019

Ontario’s Farming and Food Production Protection Act, 1998, protects farmers from nuisance actions arising from agricultural methods that are considered “normal farm practices”. Similar “right-to-farm” legislation exists in all Canadian provinces. It demonstrates the government’s desire to protect the agricultural industry, likely for food security and economic reasons, and a willingness to prioritize its needs before those of nearby landowners with possible nuisance complaints. This legislation shifts the definition of “reasonable” used in nuisance complaints from farm neighbours to the farmer. It also transfers power from the courts to government agencies. The processes undertaken by agencies such as Ontario’s Normal Farm Practices Protection Board may be less lengthy, expensive and adversarial than court litigation.
Factors affecting housing-seeking difficulty for battered women: an investigation of racial discrimination and attitudes held by landlords
Authors: Ghabrial Monica , Barata Paula
Published: September 2019

Research has revealed that battered women often face difficulty when searching for long-term housing, which in turn, often leads to homelessness. Because housing discrimination has also been found in studies regarding racial prejudice, this research was designed to investigate a potential interaction between the effects of racial discrimination and discrimination against battered women in housing-seeking. In a telephone audit study, two confederates – one with a Canadian accent and one with a Caribbean accent – called 180 landlords who had advertised for a one-bedroom apartment, and disclosed one of three living conditions (i.e., a shelter for battered women, a friend’s house, no disclosure), while asking if the apartment was still available. The apartment was 4.50 times less likely to be reported as available when the confederate called claiming to be staying at a shelter than when she did not disclose a living situation. The accent of the confederate had no main effect and there was no interaction between accent and current living condition. A separate sample of 41 landlords was surveyed and asked for general views on battered women, risks that deterred them from wanting to rent to battered women, and sources for the information on which these concerns were based. The results of the studies suggest that landlords feel justified in discriminating against battered women; however, they are aware that racial discrimination is illegal and thus avoid this behaviour. Factors that could potentially make landlords more comfortable about renting to battered women are discussed.
Anatomical features of Bougainvillea (Nyctaginaceae)
Authors: Chew Sarah
Published: September 2019

Two potted plants of Bougainvillea were obtained from a local nursery to explore their anatomical features using a variety of microscopical methods and stains. Various anatomical structures revealed were consistent with previous literature and these features were related to the natural habitat and established internal and external defenses of the plant. Results confirmed that the Bougainvillea is, in fact, a dicotyledonous plant that has evolved defensive features that permit its survival in hot and dry environments. Results indicated that features such as woody spines, the crystal inclusions in cells and the anomalous growth pattern are relatively unique to this species and important for its survival against predators.
“The quarry proposed by the St. Marys Cement Inc. for a location near Carlisle, Ontario, should not be permitted”: Adjudication Report
Authors: Chaimbrone Vanessa , Cheng Peggy , Coughlin Meagan , Gale Nigel , Hurst Melissa , Robson Victoria , Fox Glenn
Published: September 2019

Arguments were presented in opposition to and in favour of St. Marys Cement Inc.’s proposal to construct a limestone quarry near Flamborough, Ontario as written reports and oral debates. This paper describes the development and implementation of a set of decision-making criteria that is used select the stronger of the two opinions. Measures were taken to limit bias in the adjudication process, maintain a high quality of referenced information, and establish a fair, comprehensive set of standards necessary for a convincing argument before the opposing arguments were presented. According to this set of decision-making criteria, the Opponents’ argument in opposition to the movement against development of the quarry was deemed most convincing. Although both parties structured arguments on social, economic, and environmental grounds, the arguments of the Opponents were stronger overall. Construction of the quarry is legal, and should be permitted as a benefit to the province of Ontario.
Gustav Meyrink’s 'Golem' and Leo Perutz’s 'Nachts unter der steinernen Brücke': A literary expression of the Jewish experience during the twentieth century
Authors: Vito Caitlin
Published: September 2019

Gustav Meyrink’s novel Der Golem [The Golem], published in 1915, and Leo Perutz’s 1953 novel Nachts unter der steinernen Brücke [By Night under the Stone Bridge] communicate the authors’ image of the Jewish experience and treatment during the period of the twentieth century. Uncanny and fantastical elements are used throughout both texts to help portray the Jewish condition. Meyrink conveys the animosity between nationalistic Jews and middle-class assimilated Jews and highlights the rising anti-Semitism among Gentiles by associating Jews with the decay and corruption of modernity. At the same time, however, Jews are also depicted as a model of higher spirituality. Nachts unter der steinernen Brücke places the Holocaust within the greater context of Jewish history and conveys Perutz’s assessment that the tragedy of the Holocaust is one in a series of devastating events which have plagued the Jewish people. Moreover, the text casts doubt on the benevolence of Jewish and non-Jewish authority figures and even the mercifulness of God. The doubt raised in the novel regarding central Jewish beliefs mirrors the Jewish experience of disorientation and confusion following the horrors of the Holocaust. Perutz also conveys the need for Jewish history to be passed down to future generations as it is their past which helps form their Jewish identity.

Keywords: Der Golem [The Golem] (Meyrink, Gustav); Nachts unter der steinernen Brücke [By Night under the Stone Bridge] (Perutz, Leo); Jewish experience (portrayal of); twentieth century; uncanny and fantastical literature; literary interpretation
The reduction of directed attention fatigue through exposure to visual nature stimuli: Exploring a natural therapy for fatigue
Authors: Varkovetski Michael
Published: September 2019

This study compares the restorative effects on directed attention functioning following exposure to natural landscape images versus scrambled/distorted landscape images. Attention restoration theory (ART) provides an analysis of the stimuli and environment required for restoration of cognitive fatigue. According to ART, nature employs attention through a bottom-up process in which intrinsically fascinating stimuli from the natural environment itself modestly dominate attention. This allows the mechanisms responsible for top-down processing, which is necessary for directed attention, to recover and replenish. Unlike natural environments, urban environments employ attention through bottom-up stimulation, which forces one to overcome the stimulation using directed attention, thus not allowing for the recovery of directed attention mechanisms. This study looks into whether solely visual stimulation of natural environments is adequate for the restoration of directed attention mechanisms as measured with the “Attention Test” application. The mean completion time on the Attention Test game was significantly lower in the nature image group (M = 54.33) when compared to the scrambled image group (M = 62.04), thus validating the visual aspect of ART.
Winking, allusions, and anagrams: Translating character names in Harry Potter
Authors: Cornelio Dawn
Published: September 2019

In Harry Potter, J.K. Rowling presents to readers a foreign world in the familiar setting of England with a wide array of characters who have a wide variety of names. Harry Potter is challenging for translators who must translate character names while maintaining a balance between the foreign and the familiar, as does Rowling. Rowling’s work is identified as a piece of ‘kiddult’ literature where it is directed at both adults and children. Additionally, Rowling is described as winking at adults through her use of allusions in character names. Some translators argue in favour of localizing all character names in the target language while others argue for the direct transfer of names from English to the translation. This paper argues in favour of a balance between localization and direct transfer (or globalization) in the translation of texts like Harry Potter. After a comparison of the literature, a translation model is presented to aid translators in establishing a balance between localization and direct transfer by providing specific situations in which it is advisable to translate character names and when it is advisable to directly transfer character names into the translation.
The impacts of anthropogenic disturbance on plant species richness in the freshwater lakes of Algonquin Provincial Park
Authors: Helmers Adrian , Platek Alexis , Ponte Melissa , Secen Natalie , Cottenie Karl
Published: September 2019

This study quantified the impact of human activity on aquatic and shoreline plant species richness. We hypothesized that human activity at the shoreline would negatively impact plant species richness and that the extent of the impact would depend on the intensity of human activity. To test this, we sampled 11 lakes in Algonquin Provincial Park, of which five permitted motorboat access, and five permitted canoe access and prohibited motorboat access. The remaining lake, which had no designated access point for boats and was only accessible to researchers, acted as a control. To assess the impact of anthropogenic disturbance at each lake, we measured plant species richness in three 10 m by 2 m plots: a first plot at the access point, assumed to be the site of highest disturbance; a second at the site of intermediate disturbance, 30 m down shore from the access point; and a third at the site of lowest disturbance, 60 m down shore from the access point. We found a significant negative relationship between the level of disturbance and plant species richness, both in the motorboat-accessible and canoe access-only lakes. The control lake exhibited no correlation between disturbance level and plant species richness. However, there was no significant difference between motorboat-accessible and canoe access-only lakes in the relationship between disturbance level and plant species richness. Overall, this study highlights the consequences of anthropogenic disturbance on freshwater aquatic and shoreline plant communities, and provides a framework for future management and rehabilitation strategies.
Mac at war: Women’s work and education at the Macdonald Institute during the First and Second World Wars
Authors: Falconer Tasha
Published: September 2019

In 1903, the Macdonald Institute opened in Guelph with the stated aim of training rural women in home economics and domestic science. Part of the Ontario Agriculture College (OAC), the school progressed quickly and soon became an invaluable resource for both Canadian and international women. Over the years, the “Mac girls” made their mark on the world, including during the two World Wars. Under the leadership of directors Mary Watson during the First World War, and Olive Cruikshank during part of the Second World War, the Macdonald Institute supported the war effort in several ways. These included adapting curricula to the exigencies of wartime, and sending material overseas. The Macdonald Institute initially remained open during the Second World War, yet in 1941, standard classes ceased for five years as the Royal Canadian Air Force’s (RCAF) No. 4 Wireless School took control of the Institute’s buildings and property. Throughout this period of closure, women arrived to live and attend classes at the Wireless School as part of the RCAF’s Women’s Division and School of Cookery. Throughout the two World Wars, women associated with the Macdonald Institute and the No. 4 Wireless School, including students, graduates, instructors, and members of the Women’s Division, variously involved themselves with the war effort. The activities of the Macdonald Institute, and of the No. 4 Wireless School, afford an opportunity to examine how women’s work and education was viewed, deployed, and reallocated throughout the two World Wars.
EXPERIMENTAL PRESERVATION OF MUSCLE TISSUE IN QUARTZ SAND AND KAOLINITE
Authors: NEWMAN SHARON A. , DAYE MIRNA , FAKRA SIRINE C. , MARCUS MATTHEW A. , PAJUSALU MIHKEL , PRUSS SARA B. , SMITH EMILY F. , BOSAK TANJA
Published: September 2019

Siliciclastic sediments of the Ediacaran Period contain exceptionally preserved fossils of macroscopic organisms, including three-dimensional casts and molds commonly found in sandstones and siltstones and some two-dimensional compressions reported in shales. The sporadic and variable associations of these exceptionally preserved macroscopic fossils with pyrite, clay minerals, and microbial fossils and textures complicate our understanding of fossilization processes. This hinders inferences about the evolutionary histories, tissue types, original morphologies, and lifestyles of the enigmatic Ediacara biota. Here, we investigate the delayed decay of scallop muscles buried in quartz sand or kaolinite for 45 days. This process occurs in the presence of microbial activity in mixed redox environments, but in the absence of thick, sealing microbial mats. Microbial processes that mediate organic decay and release the highest concentrations of silica and Fe(II) into the pore fluids are associated with the most extensive tissue decay. Delayed decay and the preservation of thick muscles in sand are associated with less intense microbial iron reduction and the precipitation of iron oxides and iron sulfides that contain Fe(II) or Fe(III). In contrast, muscles buried in kaolinite are coated only by <10 μm-thick clay veneers composed of kaolinite grains and newly formed K- and Fe(II)-rich aluminosilicate phases. Muscles that undergo delayed decay in kaolinite lose more mass relative to the muscles buried in sand and undergo vertical collapse. These findings show that the composition of minerals that coat or precipitate within the tissues and the vertical dimension of the preserved features can depend on the type of sediment that buries the muscles. Similar processes in the zone of oscillating redox likely facilitated the formation of exceptionally preserved macrofossils in Ediacaran siliciclastic sediments.
Análise clínica e econômica de “mundo real” da substituição do medicamento Remicade® (infliximabe referência) por Remsima™ (infliximabe biossimilar) em pacientes com artrite reumatoide, espondilite anquilosante e artrite psoriática
Authors: Nascimento Júnior Reynaldo , Jesus Daniela , Rehen Nadja , Pedra Daniela
Published: September 2019

Objetivo: O Planserv oferece cobertura à terapia biológica para as patologias de artrite reumatoide (AR), espondilite anquilosante (EA) e artrite psoriática (AP). Em agosto de 2016, 78 pacientes estavam em uso do medicamento Remicade® (infliximabe). Nessa data, o valor do Remicade® foi reduzido para o mesmo valor do Remsima™ (infliximabe biossimilar). Com isso, todos pacientes que estavam usando o Remicade® trocaram por Remsima™. Conduzimos um estudo para medir a descontinuidade da terapia e a economia. Métodos: Estudo de mundo real (coorte prospectiva), não controlado, em pacientes com AR, AP e EA que estavam utilizando Remicade® e trocaram para Remsima™, entre setembro de 2016 e setembro de 2017. O desfecho primário foi o índice de descontinuidade do tratamento (por qualquer causa). O desfecho secundário foi a taxa de “aumento da atividade da doença”, medida por meio dos escores SDAI, BASDAI e CASPAR. Foi considerado como “aumento da atividade da doença” qualquer medida superior à medida inicial e que estivesse acima do limite de remissão da doença. Os valores de referência para “aumento da atividade da doença” foram as medidas históricas. O impacto econômico foi medido por uma análise de custo-minimização. Resultados: Em setembro de 2017, 5 (6%) pacientes que realizaram a troca do Remicade® para o Remsima™, descontinuaram a terapia (4 por falhas e 1 perda de acompanhamento). A taxa de descontinuação de referência (Remicade®) foi de 11% (9% de falha e 2% por perda de acompanhamento). As análises de subgrupo (descontinuidade da terapia por tipo de patologia) foram equivalentes. A taxa de “aumento da atividade da doença” ocorreu em 42% dos pacientes para o Remsima™ e em 46% para o Remicade®. As análises de subgrupo (por tipo de patologia) também demonstraram que as taxas de aumento da atividade da doença foram semelhantes entre os grupos. A análise econômica mostrou que a mudança do Remicade® para o Remsima™ trouxe economia de R$ 1,75 milhão de reais (0,5 milhão de dólares), com 1.689 ampolas de infliximabe dispensadas no período. Conclusão: A troca do medicamento Remicade® pelo Remsima™ nos pacientes com AR, EA e AP, no contexto do Planserv, demonstrou ter sido uma medida segura, eficaz e econômica.
Custo de tratamento do câncer de próstata resistente à castração por meio da aplicação da técnica Delphi no Sistema de Saúde Suplementar brasileiro
Authors: Yoshida Ligia , Silva Adriano , Sasse André , Zola Fabio Eduardo , Oliveira Fernando , Lima Volney , Pádua Tiago , Pires Bernardo
Published: September 2019

Objetivo: Estimar os custos do tratamento de pacientes com câncer de próstata não metastático resistente à castração (nmCRPC) e metastático resistente à castração (mCRPC) no Sistema de Saúde Suplementar brasileiro. Métodos: Foi realizada uma busca na literatura para avaliar os dados já disponíveis do custo do tratamento do câncer de próstata no Brasil. Como os dados são escassos, optou-se por utilizar a técnica Delphi com seis médicos oncologistas para levantamento do uso dos recursos. O painel Delphi contou com três etapas, sendo duas on-line e uma presencial, abordando recursos, frequência e porcentagem de uso de exames de imagem e laboratoriais, e dados hospitalares (consultas, pronto-socorro, internações – clínica, cirúrgica e em unidade de terapia intensiva). Também foram solicitados dados de padrões de tratamento do câncer de próstata. Por fim, dados do manejo das metástases foram requeridos. Por meio das informações coletadas, foi desenvolvido o microcusteio do câncer de próstata resistente à castração na perspectiva do Sistema de Saúde Suplementar. Resultados: O custo total de tratamento da jornada do paciente com câncer de próstata resistente à castração foi igual a 480.497,25 BRL, e o tratamento unicamente da doença não metastática foi de 189.832,79 BRL e o da doença metastática, de 290.664,46 BRL. Conclusão: Os custos do tratamento de câncer de próstata metastático são substancialmente superiores aos custos do tratamento do paciente não metastático resistente à castração de alto risco, o que parece justificar economicamente o uso de medidas que previnam ou adiem o surgimento de metástases.
Unveiling atopic dermatitis burden in Brazil: a report from clinical assistance perspective
Authors: Mesquita Kleyton , Colombini Mariana , Duarte Gleison , Ferreira Sineida , Yang Ariana , Mallozi Marcia , Lupi Omar , Guidacci Marta , Abreu Daniel , Paiva Helder
Published: September 2019

Objective: Atopic dermatitis (AD) or atopic eczema is a chronic skin inflammatory disease that involves the interaction between immune, genetic and environmental triggers. AD affects 15%- 20% of infants and 1%-4% of adults worldwide although prevalence varies per country. The main objective is to raise the awareness of AD impact on patients’ quality of life (QoL) in Brazil. Methods: Interviews were carried out with key Therapeutic Area Experts (TAEs) throughout the country to gain information about disease management, treatment efficacy and patient’s QoL. For disease cost estimation, private health costs from public sources was used. Results: AD prevalence in adults was estimated at 7% in Brazil, of which 35% was moderate and 30% severe AD. Overall, 41% of patients have undergone 5 or more different treatments. However, 17% and 29% of patients with moderate and severe AD, respectively, fail to control their disease. Emollients and topical steroids are the main first-line (1L) treatments for all AD patients, although in the case of moderate and severe AD, a rapid 2-week treatment transition from 1L to 2L has been reported. In terms of economic burden, for severe and moderate AD patients, direct medical costs (medical appointments, treatments, hospitalizations and others) are between 94% and 93%. Regarding indirect costs, absenteeism was estimated to be responsible for 6% and 7% of total cost in moderate and severe AD patients, respectively. Conclusion: There is a need for AD treatments that can be used in the long term without severe side effects and with a positive impact on QoL.
SPE Strong: Strengthening Our Core: Reinforcing Core Strengths, Delivering Membership Value
Authors: Noonan Shauna
Published: September 2019

President's column

SPE has always been strong and provides great value. I am one of those people who believes we can always be better. That is why I plan to emphasize our core strengths and how we can continue to build on them and grow stronger with the industry we serve. Members who take advantage of what SPE offers will find that it enriches their careers, as it has mine.

I originally joined SPE as a student at the University of Alberta. At that time, SPE was relatively new to Canada, and the student chapter had only recently been established. The Petroleum Society of Canada, which focused on the Canadian oil and gas industry and later merged with SPE, was the predominant association preference among my peers. To me, SPE brought a global perspective on our industry along with strong technical content and excellent conferences. If you had asked me then what value SPE held for me, my answer would have been simple—a chance to network and learn from technical papers. While my fellow students and I were excited to be a part of the SPE family, we had little concept of the depth and breadth of value the society would provide for our future professional development.•

My involvement in SPE has proven to be essential at each pivotal point in my career. As a young engineer, I would gladly pay for my own SPE membership even though I was counting pennies. I considered the annual dues an investment in my career, which continued to pay off repeatedly. I took on many different roles within SPE during my 29 years as a member—embracing positions that would develop my technical knowledge and soft skills, such as leadership and communication. So many doors of opportunity have opened for me because I interacted with my fellow members and utilized what SPE had to offer. The time spent on those SPE activities has always been a wise investment.

As your president, I want to expand the value an SPE membership brings to both members and to companies that support their employees’ involvement in SPE. Our society is strong, yet I believe there are opportunities for improvement in the following areas:••

Gain recognition as the technical and unbiased source of information about our industry

Develop trust within our industry and with the public

Expand the value of membership and attract new members

Illustrate value of attending SPE events against competitor events

Increase manuscript citations and engage those from outside our industry who want to publish with SPE
A foodborne outbreak of gastroenteritis caused by Norovirus and Bacillus cereus at a university in the Shunyi District of Beijing, China 2018: a retrospective cohort study
Authors: Chen Dongwan , Li Yongjin , Lv Jinchang , Liu Xiufeng , Gao Peng , Zhen Guoxin , Zhang Wenzeng , Wu Dan , Jing Hongbo , Li Ying , Zhao Yao , Ma Xiaochen , Ma Huilai , Zhang Lijie
Published: September 2019

Background On September 4, 2018, a boarding school in the Shunyi District of Beijing, China reported an outbreak of acute gastroenteritis. At least 209 suspected students caused of diarrhea and vomiting. The case was investigated, and control measures were taken to prevent further spread. Methods A retrospective cohort study was conducted among the school students and staff in order to test hypothesis that high risk of food served at the school canteen. We collected information on demographics, refectory records, person to person transmission by uniform epidemiological questionnaire. Risk ratios (RR) and 95% conﬁdence intervals (CI) were calculated. Stool specimens of cases and canteen employees, retained food, water, and environmental swabs were investigated by laboratory analysis. Results We identiﬁed 209 cases (including 28 laboratory-confirmed cases) which occurred from August 29 to September 10. All cases were students, and the average age was 20, 52% were male. The outbreak lasted for 13 days, and peaked on September 5. Consumption of Drinks stall and Rice flour stall on September 1 (RR:3.4, 95%CI:1.5-7.8, and RR:7.6, 95%CI:2.8-20.2), Rice flour stall and Fish meal stall on September 2 (RR:4.0, 95%CI:1.2-13.6, and RR:4.6, 95%CI:1.7-12.5), muslim meal stall on September 4 (RR:2.7, 95%CI:1.3-5.4), Barbeque stall on September 5 (RR:3.0, 95%CI:1.2-7.0) were independently associated with increased risk of disease within the following 2 days. Among 35 specimens of rectal swabs or feces from students, 28 specimens were positive. Norovirus GI.6 alone was detected in 23 specimens, Bacillus cereus alone in 3 specimens and both norovirus GI.6 and Bacillus cereus in 2 specimens. 10 specimens of rectal swabs from canteen employees were positive for norovirus GI, and 2 specimens were positive for Bacillus cereus. Four retained food specimens were positive for Bacillus cereus, and environmental samples were negative for any viruses or bacteria. Conclusion Our investigation indicated that canteen employees were infected by two pathogens (norovirus and Bacillus cereus) and transmission may have been possible due to unhygienic practices. Student consumption of food or drink at high-risk stalls was determined as the probable cause of the outbreak.
The effect of intraoperative lidocaine versus esmolol infusion on postoperative analgesia in laparoscopic cholecystectomy: A randomized clinical trial
Authors: Bajracharya Joshan Lal , Subedi Asish , Pokharel Krishna , Bhattarai Balkrishna
Published: September 2019

Background: As a part of multimodal analgesia for laparoscopic cholecystectomy, both intraoperative lidocaine and esmolol facilitate postoperative analgesia, but are not widely used. Our objective was to compare these two emerging strategies that challenge the use of intraoperative opioids. We aimed to assess if intraoperative esmolol infusion is not inferior to lidocaine infusion for opioid consumption after laparoscopic cholecystectomy.
Methods: In this prospective, randomized, double-blind, non-inferiority clinical trial, 90 female patients scheduled for elective laparoscopic cholecystectomy received either intravenous (IV) lidocaine bolus 1.5 mg/kg at induction followed by an infusion (1.5 mg/ kg/hour) or IV bolus of esmolol 0.5 mg/kg at induction followed by an infusion (5-15 µg/kg/min) till the end of surgery. Remaining aspect of anesthesia followed a standard protocol apart from no intraoperative opioid supplementation. Postoperatively, patients received either morphine or tramadol IV to maintain visual analogue scale (VAS) scores ≤ 3. The primary outcome was opioid consumption (in morphine equivalents) during the first 24 postoperative hours. Pain and sedation scores, time to first perception of pain and void, and occurrence of nausea/vomiting were secondary outcomes measured up to 24 hours postoperatively.
Results: Two patients in each group were excluded from the analysis. The postoperative median (IQR) morphine equivalent consumption in patients receiving esmolol was 1 (0-1.5) mg compared to 1.5 (1-2) mg in lidocaine group ( p =0.27). The median pain scores at various time points were similar between the two groups ( p >0.05). Sedation scores were higher in patients receiving lidocaine than in those receiving esmolol up to 30 min in post-anesthesia care unit (PACU; p<0.05); however, no difference was detected later.
Conclusion: Infusion of esmolol is not inferior to lidocaine in terms of opioid requirement and pain severity in the first 24 hours after surgery. Patients receiving lidocaine were more sedated up to 30 min in PACU than those receiving esmolol.
A novel Bcl-2 inhibitor, BM-1197, Induces apoptosis in Malignant Lymphoma Cells through the Endogenous Apoptotic Pathway
Authors: Sun Yue-Li , Jiang Wen-Qi , Luo Qiu-Yun , Yang Da-Jun , Cai Yu-Chen , Huang Hui-Qiang , Sun Jian
Published: September 2019

Background: Bcl-2 family members play an important role in the development of malignant lymphoma and can induce drug resistance in anticancer treatment. The development of small molecules targeting Bcl-2 family protein can be new strategy for malignant lymphoma treatment. In this study, we investigate the antitumor effect and the cellular mechanism of a novel Bcl-2/Bcl-xL dual inhibitor BM-1197 in DCBCL and Burkitt lymphoma cells. Methods: CCK-8 assay was used to detect cell viability. Apoptosis was determined by Hoechst 33258 staining and flow cytometry. The activity of caspase-3/caspase-9 was determined using the caspase-3/ caspase-9 activity kit. Western blotting analysis was performed to evaluate the change of protein expression. The functional analysis was evalueated via immunoprecipitation and siRNA interference. Human malignant lymphoma xenograft models in nude mice were established for in vivo efficacy detection. Results: We find that BM-1197 exerts potent growth-inhibitory activity against lymphoma cells which harbor Bcl-2 and Bcl-xL high expression in vitro and has synergistic effect with chemotherapeutic drugs. Mechanistically, we see that the intrinsic apoptosis pathway is activated upon BM-1197 treatment. BM-1197 affects the protein interaction of Bak/Bcl-xl, Bim/Bcl-2, Bim/Bcl-xl, PUMA/Bcl-2 and induced conformational change in the Bax protein.which results in activation of Bax and release cytochrome c, and activated caspase -9, -3, -7 and finally induce cell apoptosis. Furthermore, our data demonstrates that BM-1197 exhibits strong anti-tumor effects against established human malignant lymphoma xenograft models. Conclusions: Our study demonstrated BM-1197 exerts potent antitumor effects both in vitro and in vivo, and provides promising preclinical data for further development of BM-1197 in malignant lymphoma.
Comparative transcriptomics of stem bark reveals genes associated with bast fiber development in Boehmeria nivea L. Gaud (ramie)
Authors: Xie Jiyong , Li Jiaqi , Jie Yucheng , Xie Deyu , Yang Di , Shi Huazhong , Zhong Yingli
Published: September 2019

Background: Boehmeria nivea L. Gaud (Ramie) produces one of the longest natural fibers in nature. The bark of ramie mainly comprises of the phloem tissue of stem and is the raw material for fiber. Therefore, identifying the molecular regulation of phloem development is important for understanding of bast fiber biosynthesis and improvement of fiber quality in ramie.Results: In this study, we collected top bud (TB), bark from internode elongating region (ER) and bark from internode fully elongated region (FER) from the ramie variety Zhongzhu No. 1. Histological study indicated that these samples contain phloem tissues at different developmental and maturation stages, with a higher degree of maturation of phloem tissue in FER. RNA sequencing (RNA-seq) was performed to identify differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in these three samples. The de novo transcriptome was assembled and unigenes were identified. The DEGs among TB, ER and FER were analyzed, and Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) studies revealed clear differences in gene expression between ER and FER. Some unigenes for secondary cell wall biosynthesis were up-regulated in both ER and FER, while unigenes for some cell wall components or cell wall modifications showed differential expression between ER and FER. In addition, ethylene activating pathway and gibberellins biosynthesis showed distinct regulation and coincided with the developmental stages of the samples.
Conclusions: Both morphological study and gene expression analysis supported a burst of phloem and vascular developmental processes during the fiber maturation in the ramie stem, and the phytohormon ethylene and gibberellin are likely to be involved in this process. Our findings provide novel insights into the phloem development and fiber maturation in ramie, which could be useful for fiber improvement in ramie and other fiber crops.
The effect of the waiting room's environment on level of anxiety experienced by children prior to dental treatment: a case control study
Authors: Fux-Noy Avia , Zohar Maayan , Herzog Karin , Shmueli Aviv , Halperson Elinor , Moskovitz Moti , Ram Diana
Published: September 2019

Background: One of the environmental factors that can cause anxiety prior to dental treatment includes the waiting room experience, specifically the amount of time spent awaiting treatment and the waiting room environment. The purpose of the study was to compare the effect of the waiting room's environment on the level of anxiety experienced by children in multisensory and traditional waiting rooms.Methods: Case control study. Test group waited for treatment in a multisensory waiting room, which consisted of a lighting column that children could touch and climb; as well as, rhythmic music played on loudspeakers. Control group waited for treatment in a traditional waiting room. Study participants were asked to answer the “Venham Picture Test”, a dental anxiety scale, while in the waiting room prior to entering the treatment room. Chi-squared, Fisher's Exact tests, and linear regression were utilized. Results: No significant difference in dental anxiety scores was found between the test and control groups. Dental anxiety was significantly higher in patients who had longer wait time prior to treatment. In addition, dental anxiety was significantly associated with visit purpose: children waiting for dental examination or those scheduled for dental treatment with conscious sedation were less anxious than children waiting for emergency treatment. Conclusions: Sensory adapted waiting room environment may be less important in reducing children's anxiety prior dental treatment. Children’s dental anxiety can be reduced by preventing emergency treatments, scheduling routine dental visits and decreasing waiting time. Trial registration: TRN NCT03197129, date of registration June 20, 2017Key words: Waiting room, Dental anxiety, Multisensory environment
Modified regional citrate anticoagulation is optimal for hemodialysis in patients at high risk of bleeding: A prospective randomized study of three anticoagulation strategies
Authors: Lin Ting , Song Li , Huang Renwei , Huang Ying , Tang Shuifu , Lin Qizhan , Zhang Ying , Wu Xingbo , Liang Hui , Wu Yuchi , Chen Yuanhan , Liang Huaban , Ma Jianchao , Feng Zhonglin , Li Zhuo , Xu Lixia , Fu Xia , Ye Zhiming , Liu Shuangxin , Liang Xinling
Published: September 2019

ABSTRACT
Background： Recommended regular saline flushing presents clinical ineffectiveness for hemodialysis (HD) patients at high risk of bleeding with heparin contraindication. Regional citrate anticoagulation (RCA) has previously been used with a Ca 2+ containing dialysate with prefiltered citrate in one arm (RCA-one). However, anticoagulation is not always achievable and up to 40% results in serious clotting in the venous expansion chamber. In this study, we have transferred one-quarter of the TSC from the prefiltered to the post filter based on RCA-one, which we have called RCA-two. The objective of this study was to compare the efficacy and safety of RCA-two with either saline flushing or RCA-one in HD patients with a high bleeding risk. Method ： In this investigator-initiated, multicenter, controlled, prospective, randomized clinical trial, 52 HD patients (77 sessions) were randomized to the RCA-two and RCA-one group in part one of the trial, and 45 patients (64 sessions) were randomized to the RCA-two and saline group in part two of the trial. Serious clotting events, adverse events and blood analyses were recorded. Results ：Serious clotting events in the RCA-two group were significantly lower compared with the RCA-one and saline group (7.89% vs. 30.77%, P = 0.011; 3.03% vs. 54.84%, P < 0.001, respectively). The median circuit survival time was 240 min (IQR 240 to 240) in the RCA-two group, was signiﬁcantly longer than 230 min (IQR 155 to 240, P < 0.001) in the RCA-one group and 210 min (IQR 135 to 240，P = 0.003) in the saline group. The majority of the AEs were hypotension, hypoglycemia and chest tightness, most of which were mild in intensity. Eight patients (20.51%) in the RCA-one group, 4 patients (12.90%) in the saline group and 10 patients (26.31%) in the RCA-two group, P>0.05. Conclusions ： Our data demonstrated that the modified anticoagulation protocol was more effective and feasible during hemodialysis therapy for patients at high risk of bleeding. Trial registration: GDREC, GDREC2017250H. Registered February 2, 2018; prospectively registered.
Diagnostic accuracy of QuickVue® Dipstick Strep A test and its effect on antibiotic prescribing in children in the United Arab Emirates
Authors: Shabestari Seyed Ali Safizadeh , Malik Zainab A. , Al-Najjar Fadil Y A
Published: September 2019

Background: Unnecessary antibiotic prescription to patients with upper respiratory tract infections (URTIs) has led to the increase in antibiotics resistant bacteria rates. In this study, we evaluated the diagnostic accuracy of QuickVue® Dipstick Strep A test (QV-SAT) in children presenting with acute pharyngotonsillitis and its effect on antibiotic prescribing.
Methods: A single-gated diagnostic accuracy study of children with runny nose, fever, and tonsillitis presenting to a paediatric clinic between March 2016 and September 2018. Paired throat swabs for QV-SAT and culture were collected. None of the children received antibiotics prior to sample collection. Furthermore, positive predictive value (PPV), negative predictive value (NPV) and likelihood ratios of the test were calculated.
Results: 204 children were included in this study. 111 (54.4%) were boys and 146 (71.6%) were under the age of five years. QV-SAT was positive in 44 (21.6%) and throat culture was positive for Group A β- haemolytic Streptococcus (GAS) in 42 (20.6%) of the children. The results of QV-SAT were highly consistent with culture results: only 2 (0.9%) children with negative results had a positive throat culture. The sensitivity of the QV-SAT in the identification of GAS infection was 100% (95% CI 91.6%, 100%) and the NPV was 100% (95% CI 70%, 95%). Only 42 children (21%) were given antibiotics, while 162 (79%) were not.
Conclusion: The QV-SAT is a quick and reliable test which can help dramatically reduce antibiotic prescriptions to children presenting with fever and acute pharyngotonsillitis.
Transversus abdominis plane block with general anesthesia blunts the perioperative stress response in patients undergoing radical gastrectomy
Authors: Liu Ruizhu , Qin Haiyan , Wang Meng , Li Kai , Zhao Guoqing
Published: September 2019

Background: Surgical stress induces the release of neuroendocrine mediators and cytokines during perioperative period, which may have adverse effects on cancer patients. While the surgical stress response can be affected by anesthetic technique. Therefore, we designed this study to assess whether subcostal transversus abdominis plane (TAP) block can affect perioperative neuroendocrine stress response, postoperative analgesia and postoperative recovery in patients undergoing radical gastrectomy under general anesthesia.
Methods: Sixty-five patients were recruited. Patients randomly received general anesthesia (control group), or general anesthesia combined with TAP block (40 mL of 0.375% ropivacaine) (TAP group). The primary outcome was neuroendocrine levels including norepinephrine (NE), epinephrine (E), cortisol (Cor), glucose (Glu), interleukin (IL)-6 and IL-10 during 48 h after surgery. Secondary outcomes included pain score, hemodynamic variables and recovery characteristics.
Results: Data from 61 of 65 patients were analyzed. The levels of NE, E, Cor, and Glu were blunt by TAP block during perioperative period. The levels of IL-6 and IL-10 were significantly lower in TAP group than in control group. TAP block efficiently relieved postoperative acute pain up to 12 h postoperatively with more stable perioperative hemodynamics compared with control group.
Conclusions: Subcostal TAP block blunts perioperative stress response and provides efficient analgesia, with good hemodynamic stability and minimal adverse effects.
Transcriptomic analysis of α-synuclein knockdown after T3 spinal cord injury in rats
Authors: Zeng Hong , Yu Bao-fu , Liu Nan , Yang Yan-yan , Xing Hua-yi , Liu Xiao-xie , Zhou Mouwang
Published: September 2019

Abstract

Background
Endogenous α-synuclein (α-Syn) is involved in many pathophysiological processes in the secondary injury stage after acute spinal cord injury (SCI), and the mechanism governing these functions has not been thoroughly elucidated to date. This research aims to characterize the effect of α-Syn knockdown on transcriptional levels after SCI and to determine the mechanisms underlying α-Syn activity based on RNA-seq.
Result
The establishment of a rat model of lentiviral vector-mediated knockdown of α-Syn in Sprague-Dawley rats with T3 spinal cord contusion (LV_SCI group). The results of the RNA-seq analysis showed that there were 337 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) between the SCI group and the LV_SCI group, and 153 DEGs specific to LV_SCI between the (SCI vs LV_SCI) and (SCI vs CON) comparisons . The top 20 biological transition terms were identified by Gene ontology (GO) analysis. The Kyoto Gene and Genomic Encyclopedia (KEGG) analysis showed that the LV_SCI group significantly upregulated the cholinergic synaptic & nicotine addiction and the neuroactive ligand receptor interaction signaling pathway. Enriched chord analysis analyzes key genes. Further cluster analysis, gene and protein interaction network analysis and RT-qPCR results showed that Chrm2 and Chrnb2 together significantly in both pathways. The proliferation of muscarinic cholinergic receptor subtype 2 (Chrm2) and nicotinic cholinergic receptor subtype β2 (Chrnb2), and the neurogenesis were elevated in the injury site of LV_SCI group by immunofluorescence. Further by subcellular localization, the LV_SCI group enhanced the expression of Chrnb2 at the cell membrane.
Conclusion
Knockdown of α-Syn after SCI enhance motor function and promote neurogenesis probably through enhancing cholinergic signaling pathways and neuroreceptor interactions. This study not only further clarifies the understanding of the mechanism of knockdown of α-Syn on SCI but also helps to guide the treatment strategy for SCI.
Horizontal gene transfer contributes to virulence and antibiotic resistance of Vibrio harveyi 345 based on complete genome sequence analysis
Authors: Deng Yiqin , Xu Haidong , Su Youlu , Liu Songlin , Xu Liwen , Guo Zhixun , Wu Jinjun , Cheng Changhong , Feng Juan
Published: September 2019

Background

Horizontal gene transfer (HGT), which is affected by environmental pollution and climate change, promotes genetic communication, changing bacterial pathogenicity and drug resistance. However, few studies have been conducted on the effect of HGT on the high pathogenicity and drug resistance of the opportunistic pathogen Vibrio harveyi .Results

V. harveyi 345 that was multidrug resistant and infected Epinephelus oanceolutus was isolated from a diseased organism in Shenzhen, Southern China, an important and contaminated aquaculture area. Analysis of the entire genome sequence predicted 5,678 genes including 487 virulence genes contributing to bacterial pathogenesis and 25 antibiotic-resistance genes (ARGs) contributing to antimicrobial resistance. Five ARGs ( tetm , tetb , qnrs , dfra17 , and sul2 ) and one virulence gene (CU052_28670) on the pAQU-type plasmid p345-185, provided direct evidence for HGT. Comparative genome analysis of 31 V. harveyi strains indicated that 217 genes and 7 gene families, including a class C beta-lactamase gene, a virulence-associated protein D gene, and an OmpA family protein gene were specific to strain V. harveyi 345. These genes could contribute to HGT or be horizontally transferred from other bacteria to enhance the virulence or antibiotic resistance of 345. Mobile genetic elements in 71 genomic islands encoding virulence factors for three type III secretion proteins and 13 type VI secretion system proteins, and two incomplete prophage sequences were detected that could be HGT transfer tools. Evaluation of the complete genome of V. harveyi 345 and comparative genomics indicated genomic exchange, especially exchange of pathogenic genes and drug-resistance genes by HGT contributing to pathogenicity and drug resistance. Climate change and continued environmental deterioration are expected to accelerate the HGT of V. harveyi , increasing its pathogenicity and drug resistance.Conclusion

This study provides timely information for further analysis of V. harveyi pathogenesis and antimicrobial resistance and developing pollution control measurements for coastal areas.