bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
miRNA‐Mediated Regulation of Insulin Sensitivity in Skeletal Muscle Cells
Authors: Petrocelli Jonathan , Beach Cassandra , Marino Joseph S.
Published: November 2023

Background

Micro RNAs (miRNAs) are a class of small non‐protein coding RNAs that bind specific 3′‐untranslated regions of messenger RNAs (mRNAs), inhibiting the translation of mRNA to functional protein. Which miRNAs are important for skeletal muscle health and how they regulate metabolic and functional plasticity is poorly understood. Recent evidence from studies in hepatocytes suggests that miR26a regulates insulin sensitivity.

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to determine whether miR26a regulates insulin sensitivity in skeletal muscle cells.

Methods

C2C12 mouse myoblasts were induced to differentiate into myotubes for 4 days. Cells were serum starved for 2 hours followed by treatment with palmitate (.75mM) or vehicle for 2 hours. Cells were then treated with insulin (10nM) for 20 minutes. Real‐time PCR was used to investigate changes in miRNA expression.

Results

In silico mapping of miR26a target mRNA revealed high complementarity for the protein kinase C theta (PKCθ) transcript. PKCθ is a lipid sensitive kinase associated with skeletal muscle insulin resistance. Upon treatment with palmitate, miR26a expression decreased by approximately 75%, corresponding to an increase in PKCθ.

Conclusions

These data suggest that PKCθ and miR26a may exist in a regulatory pathway that alters insulin sensitivity in the presences of saturated fatty acid. Work is ongoing to more comprehensively investigate the mechanistic connection between miR26a and PKCθ in the regulation of fatty acid‐induced insulin resistance in skeletal muscle cells.
Reducing Allergic Asthma Inflammation and Airway Hyperresponsiveness via a Novel Protease‐Activated Receptor‐2 Antagonist
Authors: Rivas Candy M. , Lovett Marissa K. , Neenan Tyler , Yee Michael , DeFea Kathryn A , Daines Michael , Vagner Josef , Boitano Scott A.
Published: November 2023

Protease‐activated receptor‐2 (PAR2) belongs to a family of four G protein‐coupled receptors that possess the unique ability to self‐activate upon proteolysis of the extracellular amino terminus. The resulting exposure of the activating peptide sequence or tethered ligand leads to receptor activation and stimulation of both β‐arrestin‐ and Gαq‐dependent signaling. Studies examining the link between PAR2 and inflammation delineate a central role for PAR2‐dependent β‐arrestin signaling in the epithelial initiation of airway inflammation present in asthma development. The current model suggests PAR2 expressed by the airway epithelium is at a prime location to encounter proteases in asthma‐causing environmental allergens and subsequent PAR2 activation and signaling is the initiator of airway inflammation. Recently, our lab has developed C391, a potent PAR2 antagonist that has shown to be effective in blocking peptidomimetic‐ and protease‐containing asthma‐associated allergen (Alternaria alternata)‐induced PAR2 signaling both in vitro and in vivo. In an In Cell Western assay, micromolar concentrations of C391 were found to effectively inhibit 2at‐LIGRLO‐ and A. alternata‐induced MAPK activation. Fluorescent calcium imaging showed that C391 was effective at preventing 2at‐LIGRLO‐induced Ca2+ responses in bronchial epithelial cells with a half maximal inhibitory concentration of 1.3μM, while preliminary data indicate C391 also blocks A. alternata‐induced Ca2+ responses. Results from a time‐resolved fluorescence competitive binding assay show C391 inhibits PAR2 binding of 2f‐LIGRL‐dtpa with an apparent IC50 = 8.55pM. Data from these molecular and cellular techniques provide proof of potent PAR2 inhibition by C391. To understand the effects of PAR2 inhibition in vivo, C391 was applied to murine asthma models. In vivo data shows that C391 attenuates the development of airway hyperresponsiveness in A. alternata‐sensitized mice and analysis of bronchoalveolar lavage fluid shows reduced inflammatory cell recruitment to the lungs. Thus, in vitro data provides evidence that C391 effectively inhibits PAR2 signaling, while in vivo data demonstrates PAR2 antagonism may confer physiological benefit via mitigation of airway inflammation and pathological airflow limitation. Taken together, this data demonstrates the utility of our novel antagonist, C391 in studying the capacity of PAR2 modulation in asthma development and supports the validity of our molecular target, PAR2 in the development of novel, improved therapies for allergic asthma.

Support or Funding Information

This work was funded by National Institutes of Health grants NS 073664 and R01 A1083403 and support provided through the William Townsend Porter Pre‐doctoral Fellowship awarded by the American Physiological Society.
Role of PGE2‐EP1/EP3 receptor signaling on hyperoxia‐induced airway hyperreactivity in neonatal rats
Authors: Thaçi Qëndrim , Cenaj Asllan , Sopi Ramadan B
Published: November 2023

Hyperoxic exposure of neonates is followed by airway hyperreactivity, that involves many different molecular signaling mechanisms, including PGE2/EP‐receptor signaling. The aim of this study was to investigate the role of EP1/EP3 receptors on airway hyperreactivity in neonatal rats exposed to hyperoxia. Tracheal cylinders were obtained from Wistar rat pups (P12) exposed for seven days to hyperoxia or room air. The preparations were used to study contractile responses in an in vitro organ bath system. In hyperoxic group the contractile responses significantly were enhanced towards a muscarinic agonist (methacholine) as compared to room air control group. Pre‐incubation of tissues on EP1/EP3 antagonists, significantly reduced these enhanced responses in hyperoxic group. Use of EP1/EP3 agonists and Rho‐kinase inhibitors disclosed the involvement of Rho‐kinase pathway on the signaling of EP1/EP3 receptors. The results of this study for the first time confirm the contribution of the EP1/EP3 receptors on hyperoxia‐induced airway hyperreactivity and the involvement of Rho‐kinase pathway. We suggest the use of EP1or EP3 antagonists or Rho‐kinase inhibitors as a therapy parallel to hyperoxic exposure in order to overcome the adverse effects of neonatal hyperoxia and to prevent the development of bronchopulmonary dysplasia as consequence of hyperoxic exposure.

Support or Funding Information

Supported by MEST
Regulation of endogenous Kv7 potassium channels by histamine in primary cultured human airway smooth muscle cells.
Authors: Haick Jennifer M. , Brueggemann Lyubov I. , Schwartz Jeffrey L. , Byron Kenneth L.
Published: November 2023

Kv7 potassium channels were recently found to be expressed in airway smooth muscle cells (ASMCs) of different species including humans. Previous research studies on guinea pigs and rats suggests that native Kv7 currents are inhibited following treatment of ASMCs with bronchoconstrictor agonists; in intact airways this inhibition is sufficient to stimulate L‐type Ca2+ channels in ASMCs, resulting in ASMC contraction and bronchiolar constriction. Although KCNQ genes which encode for Kv7 channels are expressed in human tracheal smooth muscle, no human ASMC culture model has been developed to investigate the regulation of native Kv7 currents or its role in Ca2+ signaling. Here we found that bronchoconstrictor agonist histamine (1 μM) induced Ca2+ influx in monolayers of primary cultured human ASMCs. This Ca2+ influx was prevented by application of L‐type Ca2+ channel blocker verapamil (10 μM). Perforated‐patch clamp electrophysiology was employed to detect endogenous Kv7 currents in primary cultured human ASMCs. Small endogenous Kv7 currents sensitive to Kv7.2–7.5 activator retigabine (10 μM) were detected in 60% of ASMCs. After washout of retigabine, Kv7 currents returned to the control level and were inhibited by subsequent application of histamine (10 μM, 43 ± 11% inhibition at −20 mV, n=6). Histamine induced inhibition of endogenous human Kv7 currents in ASMCs was completely reversed by addition of histamine H1 receptor antagonist chlorpheniramine (100 μM). Pan Kv7 channel blocker XE991 (10 μM) applied at the end of each experiment inhibited 84 ± 8% of the current at −20 mV. The present study provides new evidence for a role of Kv7 channels in bronchoconstrictor Ca2+ signaling in cultured human ASMCs.

Support or Funding Information

The project described was supported by Award Number I01BX007080 from the Biomedical Laboratory Research & Development Service of the VA Office of Research and Development.
Quercetin Reverses the Enhanced Contractile Responses of Tracheal Smooth Muscle of Neonatal Rats Exposed to Hyperoxia
Authors: Kryeziu Islam , Thaçi Qëndrim , Reçica Shkëlzen , Kurshumliu Fisnik , Vela Driton , Mladenov Mitko , Basholli Mimoza , Sopi Ramadan B
Published: November 2023

Neonatal hyperoxia increases contraction and decreases the relaxation of airway smooth muscle (ASM), and the balance between these processes in airways is critical for normal flow of air. Thus, it is important to search for an effective treatment to prevent the airway hyperreactivity. Therefore, we tested the hypothesis that supplementation of quercetin will overcome the enchanced contractile responses of tracheal smooth muscle exposed to hyperoxia. Tracheal cylinders were obtained from Wistar rat pups (P12) exposed to hyperoxia (≥ 95% O2) or room air for seven days. These cylinders were used to study contractile responses of ASM evoked by methacholine (MCh, 10‐8 – 10‐4 M) in absence or presence of quercetin (100 μM). MCh induced dose‐dependent contractile responses of ASM. Hyperoxic exposure significantly increased the contractile responses of ASM towards MCh, as compared to those obtained from control animals exposed to room air, and these enhanced contractile responses in hyperoxic tissues were significantly attenuated in presence of quercetin. The results of this study revealed that quercetin reverses the enhanced contractile responses of airway smooth muscle induced by hyperoxic exposure and we speculate that the use of quercetin might be an effective therapeutic approach to prevent the airway hyperreactivity induced by hyperoxia.

Support or Funding Information

Supported by MEST
Divergent Effects of Myo‐inositol Supplementation on Respiratory Control During Postnatal Development
Authors: MacFarlane Peter , Di Fiore Juliann , Mayer Catherine
Published: November 2023

Myo‐inositol is a nutritional supplement and a naturally occurring sugar derived from the breakdown of glucose – it can ultimately form important structural lipids and intracellular second messengers. Myo‐inositol is found in breast milk and serum levels decrease naturally in the newborn over the first postnatal weeks. Prior studies have demonstrated beneficial effects of myo‐inositol supplementation on lung development in preterm infants. In the current study, we tested the hypothesis that myo‐inositol administration during the postnatal period would affect respiratory control in neonatal rats. Rat pups received sub‐cutaneous injections of myo‐inositol (80mg/kg/day) for the first 2 postnatal weeks and the ventilatory responses to acute (5 min) hypoxia (HVR; 10% O2) or hypercapnia (HCVR; 5% CO2) were assessed at 1 or 2 weeks of age. In 1 week old rats, myo‐inositol abolished (−7.6 ± 9.4% change from baseline) the acute HVR compared to vehicle (26.6 ± 11.8% change from baseline) treated pups In contrast, myo‐inositol had the opposite effect at 2 wks of age and enhanced the acute HVR (73.4 ± 11.5% change from baseline) compared to age‐matched vehicle (saline; 41.6 ± 11.9% change from baseline) treated rats. Myo‐inositol did not affect the acute HCVR in either age group suggesting its effects (at each age group) are unique to the hypoxic sensitive pathways. Neither body weight or baseline ventilation were affected by myo‐inositol in any age group. These data demonstrate a divergent effect of myo‐inositol treatment on respiratory control during postnatal development, characterized as an inhibitory effect on the HVR at 1 wk, followed by a rapid (days) transition to an augmenting effect by 2 weeks of age. Such contrasting effects of myo‐inositol reveal potentially deleterious vs beneficial effects on respiratory neural control during specific stages of postnatal development. These data may have implications for the way that postnatal changes in dietary myo‐inositol could influence the severity of respiratory morbidities associated with abnormal respiratory control that are common to preterm infants including respiratory distress and apnea of prematurity.

Support or Funding Information

The Gerber Foundation
The Metaboreflex and the Peripheral Chemoreflex Interact for the Regulation of Ventilation in Patients with Chronic Heart Failure
Authors: Machado Alessandro Costa , Vianna Lauro Casqueiro , Gomes Erika Alvarenga Correa , Teixeira Jose Antonio Caldas , Ribeiro Mario Luiz , Junior Humberto Villacorta , Nobrega Antonio Claudio Lucas , Silva Bruno Moreira
Published: November 2023

Patients with chronic heart failure (CHF) tipically present exacerbated ventilation (VE) response to exercise. This phenomenon is associated with exercise intolerance and worse prognosis, and seems to be mediated, at least in part, by abnormalities in the neural control of VE, such as enhanced VE response to activation of muscle afferents sensitive to metabolites (i.e., enhanced metaboreflex), as well as enhanced VE response to inhalation of hypoxic air at rest (i.e., enhanced peripheral chemoreflex). However, the interaction between these reflexes remains unknown in CHF. Then, we sought to test the hypothesis that the activation of the metaboreflex could enhance the contribution of the peripheral chemoreflex for the regulation of VE in patients with CHF. Six men with CHF under optimal pharmacological treatment (New York Heart Association class II‐III, mean ± SD age of 55 ± 6 years and left ventricular ejection fraction (Simpson) 33.7 ± 2.9%) were submitted to 4 steady‐state cycling sessions at 60% of maximal power output for 4 minutes. Then, they recovered for 2 minutes under either 1) post exercise ischemia (PEI) plus normoxia (21% O2), 2) PEI plus hyperoxia (100% O2), 3) free flow plus normoxia, or 4) free flow plus hyperoxia. PEI was used to trap metabolites in the lower limbs, and, consequently, activate the metaboreflex, while hyperoxia was used to inhibit the peripheral chemoreceptors. Patients were blinded to the O2 concentration in the inhaled air. A rebreathing circuit was used during recovery to match the end tidal partial pressure of CO2 (PetCO2) among conditions. Breath‐by‐breath data recorded at peak and throughout recovery were averaged in 20‐s windows for statistical analyses. Peak VE was similar among conditions. As expected, end tidal partial pressure of O2 was higher during hyperoxia than normoxia throughout the recovery period. VE decayed during recovery in all conditions. Of note, hyperoxia augmented the VE decay versus normoxia at 21–40 s (hyperoxia: 16.7 ± 2.3 L/min vs. normoxia: 22.7 ± 2.9 L/min, P < 0.001) and 41–60 s (hyperoxia: 17.1 ± 1.5 L/min vs. normoxia: 20.5 ± 2.2 L/min, P = 0.01) of recovery during PEI. However, hyperoxia did not change VE decay versus normoxia during free flow recovery. Collectively, our findings indicate that the activation of the metaboreflex enhances the peripheral chemoreflex regulation of VE in patients with CHF, which confirms the interaction between these reflexes. This interaction may, consequently, mediate part of the exaggerated VE response to exercise, which is a hallmark of patients with CHF.

Support or Funding Information

São Paulo Research Foundation (FAPESP), National Counsel of Technological and Scientific Development (CNPq), and Research Support Foundation of the State of Rio de Janeiro (FAPERJ).
Triple Oscillator Hypothesis: Three Excitatory Rhythm Generating Networks Control the Three Phases of Breathing
Authors: Anderson Tatiana M. , Garcia Alfredo J. , Baertsch Nathan A. , Pollak Julia , Ramirez Jan‐Marino
Published: November 2023

Breathing is composed of three phases: inspiration, postinspiration, and active expiration. Excitatory rhythm generating networks have been identified for the generation of inspiration, the preBötzinger complex (preBötC), and for active expiration, the lateral parafacial (pFL). By utilizing a combination of a new in vitro horizontal slice preparation, optogenetics, and in vivo techniques, we have recently identified and characterized a novel population of neurons that we show to be necessary and sufficient for the generation of postinspiration (Anderson et al. 2016). This network, located dorsomedial to the nucleus ambiguus and caudal to the facial nucleus, is referred to as the postinspiratory complex, or PiCo. PiCo can function as an independent oscillator dependent on excitatory, non‐NMDA mechanisms. Here we show that a subpopulation of PiCo neurons are endowed with ICAN and INaP dependent pacemaker properties, suggesting that PiCo has similar rhythm generating properties to the preBötC. Additionally, we observed differential effects of inhibitory antagonists. When strychnine, a glycine receptor antagonist, was bath applied to the horizontal slice in vitro, the burst duration of fictive inspiratory preBötC bursts significantly decreased while PiCo burst duration was unchanged. Upon the additional application of gabazine, a GABAergic receptor antagonist, the two rhythms progressively synchronized. Furthermore, in the presence of gabazine, the average burst area and amplitude significantly increased for both preBötC and PiCo rhythms. Based on our discovery, we propose a triple‐oscillator hypothesis that states that the three phases of respiration are generated by three, anatomically distinct, excitatory, rhythmogenic and interactive networks: the preBötC, PiCo, and PFL. We further conclude that network inhibition serves to coordinate the timing, phasing and patterning of these rhythms.

Support or Funding Information

1F31NS087828‐01

RO1 HL107084‐01
Characteristics of a Good Basic Science Teacher as Perceived by Medical Students
Authors: Hussein Inaya Hajj , Wunderlich Tracy , Loftus Stephen , Wedemeyer Rose
Published: November 2023

Background

Medical curricula have changed focus to competencies acquired by the medical student and introduced new teaching strategies to reach the set objectives. The medical educator or basic science teacher is expected to develop accordingly and acquire basic characteristics and competencies to lead such a learning process. The question commonly asked: what are such characteristics?

Aims

The purpose of this study is to assess the characteristics of a basic science teacher as perceived by medical students at OUWB School of medicine.

Methodology

The study was conducted using a self‐administered anonymous electronic survey (Qualtrics) administered to first through fourth year medical students with a covering letter explaining the project and goals.

Results

Descriptive analysis of the survey data was conducted on 24 items and means were calculated based on Likert scale ratings of 1 – 5, where 1 is not at all important and 5 is extremely important. Analysis revealed that students were most likely to report content knowledge (4.85), professionalism (4.79), learner‐centeredness (4.76), and interpersonal skills (4.68) as the most important attributes for a biomedical sciences instructor to embody. Further, students felt that the least important attributes were when faculty used interactive teaching methods (3.9) and innovative teaching methods (3.2).

Conclusion

By learning more about medical students' perceptions of basic science and clinical instruction and about their perceptions of teacher effectiveness, we will be able to tailor the training at OUWB in order to more effectively integrate and make relevant clinical application to basic science. Results from this study may also lead to recommendations for best practices in medical education at other types of institutions.
Perceptions of Dissection Experience in a Professional Veterinary Curriculum
Authors: McNulty Margaret A. , Richbourg Heather A. , Lazarus Michelle D.
Published: November 2023

Many similarities exist between medical and veterinary schools, particularly when it involves anatomy education. The professional identity of medical and veterinary professionals and students may, however, be quite different. Professional veterinary students are often exposed to and participate in euthanasias of client‐owned patients and of their own animals, both prior to and during their tenure in professional veterinary school. The experience of euthanasia is a longitudinal one comprised of three key elements: the decisions leading to the event, the event itself, and the aftermath. Each of these steps often require significant interactions between the veterinarian and the patient. This early and frequent exposure to death and dying, along with extensive literature supporting strong human‐animal bonds with many domestic species, make veterinary students an excellent resource for understanding the impact of cadaveric dissection‐intensive courses. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the emotional influence and impact of cadaveric anatomy dissection on veterinary students' experience. Students participating in a previously published, dissection‐based anatomy precourse were evaluated by repeated measures. Responses to open‐ended questions regarding students' anticipated reaction to dissection and participation within the precourse were collected. Following course completion, students were given an efficacy‐tested, previously published, mixed‐methods survey gauging their emotional response to dissection. Information regarding their previous dissection experience, as well as number and species of animals they owned, was also requested. Fifty‐four students participated in the precourse. There was a 100% response rate for the pre‐survey, and a 98% response rate for the post‐survey. Pre‐survey results indicated students were excited for a variety of reasons including: increasing knowledge, hands‐on experiences, and the strong perceived relationship between anatomy and their future careers. The few students who did express concern focused more on the overwhelming quantity of knowledge associated with anatomy. Post‐survey Likert results indicated students had very few negative reactions to the dissection process, and instead focused on an excitement for learning. The large majority indicated they were able to detach themselves from the dissection experience. Qualitative results suggest that this emotional detachment does not apply to their excitement about learning. These results indicate that veterinary students may not experience as many negative emotions as students who dissect human cadavers, according to current reports. Given the similarities between the human‐animal bond to the human‐human bond, these findings suggest that the decreased anxiety may be influenced by the increased experiences with death and dying in the context of euthanasia. Future studies will explore this premise further and evaluate the transferability of outcomes to the medical school setting.
Utilizing medical students' attitudes toward whole body donation in developing a whole body donation program
Authors: Dykowski Sara , Ahmed Mohammed , Tooley Trevor , Helland Timothy , Barremkala Malli
Published: November 2023

INTRODUCTION

The Biomedical Sciences department at the Oakland University William Beaumont School of Medicine (OUWB) aspires to start a body donation program in association with Oakland University. Understanding OUWB medical students' attitudes towards a whole body donation program and its advertisement will help better direct the department in designing a donation program that can be successful and align with students' values. A secondary goal of this study is to gauge medical student awareness of the body donation process to determine if an educational intervention should be introduced in the future.

METHODS

An online survey was sent to first‐year OUWB students to be completed prior to their first gross anatomy lab in August 2016 to determine students' attitudes prior to dissection exposure. The survey included questions regarding demographics, past anatomical education, and Likert scale questions involving perceptions of body donation. The same group of students was surveyed again 8 weeks (halfway mark) into the semester to assess for any changes in their attitudes. Data will be collected through December 2016 and a paired t‐test will be used to analyze the collected results.

RESULTS

Of the 126 students eligible to participate, 69 students responded to the survey prior to the first dissection; 42 students (62.7%) identified themselves as female and the average age of students was 23.5±2.08. Only 10 students (14.1%) felt that body donation programs should not advertise publicly while 21 students (30.4%) were neutral and 38 students (55.1%) either somewhat or strongly agreed with advertising publicly. Students felt most comfortable receiving information about whole body donation via pamphlet (65 students, 94.2%); social media (30 students, 43.48%), billboard (11 students, 15.94%) and radio (11 students, 15.94%) advertisements followed. 61 students (89.7%) did not know how to register for whole body donation, and 63 students (91.3%) were neutral or in favor of learning more about the donation process. These results will be compared with the post‐dissection responses in December 2016.

CONCLUSION

Preliminary results indicate that students are in support of developing a whole body donation program that utilizes various methods of public advertisement. Student awareness of the whole body donation registration process is lacking and the majority of students expressed interest in learning more about the process, thus supporting the need for an educational intervention in the future. Analysis of the pre‐ and post‐dissection surveys in December 2016 will determine if dissection experience influences students' attitudes towards whole body donation.
Neuroscience Outreach Education: Establishing Partnerships between Graduate and Secondary School Programs
Authors: Puder Barb
Published: November 2023

Community outreach education is an effective and essential method to convey relative health information from health care institutions to the neighboring community. Additionally, community members are becoming more proactive in their health care decisions, and are seeking more information regarding the function and maintenance of various body systems, disease prevention, and lifestyle choices that can impact their personal health. Despite the community's need for health education, there are barriers which can make it difficult to establish relationships between the university and the community. Our goal was to establish a relationship between our allied health graduate school and local secondary schools whose focus was also health related. To accomplish this goal, Samuel Merritt University, a health professions graduate school in Oakland, created relationships with secondary school health academy programs. “Ninety‐Nine Minutes of Neuro” is the educational outreach program which teaches neuroscience to health academy high school students. Samuel Merritt Occupational therapy (OT) students (master and doctoral level) presented interactive neuroscience topics to the high school students from the West Contra Costa county health academies. 11 neuroscience interactive stations were set up for the high school students to experience. Pre and post‐tests were administered to the high school students to assess the effectiveness of the program. Review worksheets were created to reinforce key ideas from each station and workbooks were given to each student and a teacher's edition to the health academy instructor for later use at their institution. Finally, qualitative data was gathered from OT students regarding their experience in the partnership with the health academy high schools.

Support or Funding Information

Research supported by: AAA Education Outreach Grant
PhUn Overview of the Cardiovascular System
Authors: Williams Ronald , Hernandez‐Velez Maria E.
Published: November 2023

Promoting science to the youth of our country is a great way to spark their curiosity and interests. Our idea was to educate them through physical activities and visual aids in order to grasp their attention. We could only hope to intrigue them enough so they can further pursue everything science has to offer. PhUn Week enabled this possibility by converging universities and the local primary schools. For us at the Biological and Health Sciences Department in Texas A&M University Kingsville, this semester would be the first time our college participated in the PhUn Week program. Initiated and supervised by Dr. Maria E. Velez‐Hernandez, she dividedstudents in her “Understanding Human Physiology” into 4 groups. Each group was assigned a different topic related tohuman physiology. For my group, we were responsible for the cardiovascular system. The process began with the assembly of raw information followed by devising ways to appropriately convey our ideas through interactive and interesting activities. After months of preparation, our group created a power point presentation along with multiple apparatuses that we believed helped portray our concepts. We covered main topics such as: blood's significance in the body, homeostatic changes, and the importance of a healthy lifestyle. The actual demonstration toalmost 100 students was a complete success. They were fascinated by some of the events that take place in your body, while also at times disgusted by the outcomes of unhealthy regimes. We were glad to incite a response from them because this showed engagement and a sense of understanding. From the overall response, we are optimistic our interaction with the students will motivate them to inquire the depths of science.
Transoral Thyroidectomy: Anatomical Aspects of an Esthetic Access
Authors: Barros Mirna Duarte , Gonçalves Antonio José , Nishio Ricardo Tadashi , Kavabata Norberto Kodi , Ayres Neto Daniel P. , Mendes Carlos José Lazzarini
Published: November 2023

Introduction

Classically, ample dissections expose the indisputable beauty of the human structural topography and offer an unquestionable learning opportunity on the syntropy of anatomical repairs, be they by the Letulle (en masse) technique or by the Virchow (organ by organ) method. Jargon of the type: “great surgeons, great incisions,” in light of technological advances, lack in conceptual revision.

The traditional transverse cervicotomy, as an access for thyroidectomy, presents itself as consecrated, yet the disagreeable cosmetic aspect in the form of a scar still persists. Surgeons and Anatomists seek alternative accesses, such as the transoral, which could contemplate the same efficacy, safety and outcomes as the transverse cervicotomy. The objective of this study was to verify the viability of using a cadaver fixed in a modified Larsen solution to perform a transoral thyroidectomy for teaching and training.

Method

Two cadavers were carefully dissected in order to obtain safe anatomical parameters, both by the transoral pathway of the subplastimal space, for the resection of the thyroid. Both cadavers were in horizontal dorsal decubitus with a cushion under the shoulder girdle and with the head in hyperextsion. On the first, relaxing and combined incisions were made, going from the right and left labial commissures in the craniocaudal direction to the mandibular tuberosity, and; on the second, 10‐mm trocar punctures were made on the medial line and two 5‐mm punctures in the projections of the lower canine teeth in the buccal vestibule. Both dissections accomplished the detachment of the superficial fascia of the neck, creating space for the exposure of the pre‐thyroid musculature. In sequence, the linea alba was opened, the laryngeal prominence, trachea, thyroid isthmus, upper and lower vascular pedicles of the thyroid, parathyroid glands and right and left recurrent laryngeal nerves were identified and then the gland was removed. In both cadavers, the thyroid region had been clearly totally approached in a safe manner, preserving adjacent structures (Figure 1).

Results

The thyroid gland was adequately located, as well as its vasculonervous relations. The neck fascia, trachea and innervation of the platysma, motor and sensory muscles were preserved.

Discussion and conclusion

The transoral pathway is possible and topographically adequate for performing a thyroidectomy, but the compulsory hyperextension of the head may be contraindicated for patients with cervical spine disorders. The hyperextension was possible, as the fixation by the modified Larsen solution provides sufficient tissue malleability to perform the maneuver.

The use of a cadaver presents a safe and reliable alternative in teaching video‐assisted anatomy and for training the resident surgeon.
Improving the Use of Pelvic Binding Devices During Pre‐Hospital Care Through Application Modules on Advanced Dissection Specimens During Advanced Care Paramedic Labs
Authors: Stubbs Alexander
Published: November 2023

The health sciences consist of several professional disciplines in which life‐saving techniques are exercised on a daily basis. Fields such as para‐medicine open the possibility of advanced pre‐hospital care, allowing previously fatal injuries to be stabilized during quick transport to a nearby trauma center. Emergency stabilization of acute pelvic fractures using pelvic binders, is but one of the life saving procedures done regularly; however, approximately 50% of pelvic binders are placed incorrectly during pre‐hospital treatment which could prove detrimental to the binder's success. A poor understanding of pelvic anatomy and the common bleeding sites could be a major factor for the limited success rate of pelvic binding procedures. While there are many videos showing the application of pelvic binding devices, none explain the impact these devices may have on the internal pelvic anatomy. This study aims to develop modules that clearly identify the major sources of bleeding from internal pelvic structures after a pelvic fracture has been sustained, as well as to indicate the location of major vessels in relation to commonly fractured sites. In addition to highlighting relevant pelvic anatomy, the modules will also demonstrate the proper application of a pelvic binding device through the use of the palpable landmarks on the pelvis and femur. These modules will be incorporated into an advanced care paramedic (ACP) program during their interactive lab sections. The ACP class will be randomly distributed into two equal sized cohorts; one of which will be shown the modules prior to attempting the pelvic binding technique and will have access to the modules during their lab, while the other will receive standard instruction. The number of attempts required to successfully apply the pelvic binding tool by each individual ACP student will act as the measure of the modules success. If the modules are successful, fewer attempts will be required to accurately place the pelvic binding tool, indicating that a better understanding of pelvic anatomy may translate to more accurate care in the field.
Effect of Simulation‐Based Cerebral Angiography Training on Navigational Error in Novices
Authors: Zaika Oleksiy
Published: November 2023

Endovascular surgical procedures require visual‐spatial coordination in workspaces with restricted motions and temporally limited imaging. The development of the skills needed for these procedures can be facilitated by 3D simulator‐based training. Simulation‐based medical education has recently started focusing on personalized training in reducing errors, enhancing trans‐situational competence and promoting professional transparency. Cerebral angiography (CA) has lagged behind in this training approach due to the lack of validated, realistic training models, relying strictly on clinical case exposure frequency as a means of assessing proficiency. The ANGIO Mentor visual‐haptic simulator has been regarded as an effective training tool, increasing performance in diagnostic CA, however, this simulator has not been tested thoroughly in error reduction in CA. In our study, residents and graduate students were given practice diagnostic angiography and were subsequently tested on a right middle cerebral artery aneurysm case, repeating over 8 sessions. Participants were also administered a mental rotations test (MRT) and grouped into MRT groups to identify performance differences. We have identified a significant self‐guided reduction in spatial errors by the participants over 8 sessions. Further investigation revealed a negative change in error frequency for major trajectory deviations. This allowed us to categorize vessels that, although less frequent in erroneous access, were creating the most difficulty for the trainee and most potential harm to patients. Assessing MRTs, we found that high MRT individuals performed much better than low MRT individuals at the start of the study, however, both groups plateaued at a similar performance level by the 8th session. These results are significant in the adoption of personalized medical training in this field and identify vascular areas of difficulty that can be addressed by the curriculum. Although it is well understood that simulation training under expert supervision is most effective, we have shown that self‐guided training can build appropriate technical and spatial ability in procedural skill development.

Support or Funding Information

NSERC
Comparing First‐Year Medical Students Performance on Radiology and Non‐Radiology Components of a Gross Anatomy Course
Authors: Ginsburg Alexander D , Knight Jennifer A , Gibbs Christopher M. , Stadem Paul S. , Hoch Wyatt B. , Harvey Jamison A. , Eiken Patrick W. , Lachman Nirusha , Pawlina Wojciech
Published: November 2023

Radiology is often incorporated into medical school anatomy courses. Radiology education furthers understanding of anatomical relationships and prepares students to apply anatomical knowledge in clinical practice. The aim of this study was to investigate how cognitive performance on the radiology components (RC) of a first‐year medical school anatomy course are related to performance on non‐radiological components (NRC). We hypothesized that there is no correlation between these two performance variables, because they rely on different cognitive skills. Thus, anatomy education alone will not prepare students for the interpretation of normal anatomy on radiological images. Medical students (n=51) enrolled in a first‐year anatomy course at Mayo Clinic School of Medicine were included in this study. Assessment data from three lab practical examinations were collected, and RC and NRC questions were compared. A bivariate linear regression and statistical tests were conducted. A subgroup analysis was used to compare students whose RC performance was greater than their NRC performance (RC>NRC, n=33) to students whose RC performance was less than their NRC performance (RC<NRC, n=18). When considering all three exams, students correctly answered 71.1% of the RC questions and 68.3% of NRC questions (p=0.047). Bivariate linear regression demonstrated a moderate positive correlation between RC and NRC performance (p<0.01, r= 0.51); however, performance on RC questions only accounted for 24% of the variability of NRC scores. Additionally, students in the RC>NRC group had significantly higher scores on RC questions than the students in the RC<NRC group (74% vs 66%, p<0.02). Conversely, students in the RC>NRC group had significantly lower scores on NRC questions than the students in the RC<NRC group (61% vs 74%, p=0.001). These results indicate that while RC performance has some influence on NRC performance it does not account for the majority of the difference observed. Such results suggest that the cognitive skills involved in both radiology and anatomy education are different. Therefore, dedicated radiology education is an important component of an anatomy course as it fosters the development of novel skills that are necessary when interpreting normal anatomy on radiological images in a clinical setting.

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Improving the Quality of Prosected Limbs in Gross Anatomy by Dissecting Under Water
Authors: Gao Yuan , Vitela Alberto Parra , Ransom Alyssa , Alturkustani Sarah , Reynolds Amberly , Miller Caroline , Nieto Lauren , Ettarh Raj
Published: November 2023

One key advantage of properly performed formalin‐based embalming is that quality and duration of tissue preservation is very good. This advantage is however associated with the need for specialized equipment, effective approved ventilation systems in preparation and dissecting environments, as well as regulated air monitoring and chemical disposal protocols for formaldehyde. As part of a study of methods to reduce levels of formaldehyde in air while preserving tissue quality, formalin‐embalmed gross anatomy specimens were pre‐soaked and dissected under water. This report describes the effect on both the quality of tissue preservation and dissection of upper limb specimens. Sections of upper limbs that had been embalmed in 10% formalin for at least 90 days were immersed in water for 12 or 48 hours (water was changed after 24 hours). Following pre‐soaking in water, specimens were dissected under water using standard dissecting instruments to expose muscles in the forearm and hand. One upper limb specimen did not receive water treatment and was dissected normally in air for comparison. The dissecting experience under water was technically less challenging (easier than normal dissecting in air), less force was required to reflect skin, and tissue quality and appearance of specimens dissected under water were significantly enhanced when compared to untreated specimens dissected in the normal manner. Our findings suggest that over a seven‐month period, water immersion treatment of formalin‐embalmed limbs does not affect quality of tissue preservation, did not result in tissue swelling or development of mold, and facilitated the production of high quality prosected specimens for teaching. This approach is cost effective and environmentally safe.

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None
Pitx2 controls dental stem cell proliferation and differentiation by regulating Cyclin D2 and Irx1
Authors: Yu Wenjie , Sun Zhao , Eliason Steven , Amendt Brad A.
Published: November 2023

Pituitary homeobox 2 (PITX2), the gene responsible for Axenfeld‐Rieger syndrome (ARS), plays a crucial role in odontogenesis. ARS individuals has dental agenesis and enamel hypoplasia. Although the function of Pitx2 in tooth development is well established, detailed cellular and molecular mechanisms of Pitx2 regulation remain unclear. Here, we conditionally ablated Pitx2 in the dental epithelium using the Krt14‐Cre (K14CrePitx2f/f), which resulted in arrested tooth development at the bud stage. BrdU incorporation analysis showed that cell proliferation is decreased in the K14CrePitx2f/f incisors. In addition, we found that Sox9+ cells are reduced in the dental epithelium in K14CrePitx2f/f teeth, indicating that cell differentiation is down‐regulated. We have identified Iroquois 1 (Irx1) as a new homobox transcription factor expressed in early dental development. Mechanistically, Pitx2 regulates the expression of Cyclin D2 and Irx1 to promote early tooth formation. In conclusion, we have uncovered a new Pitx2 dependent regulatory network during early tooth development.

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College of dentistry, the University of Iowa
microRNA‐26b‐5p Targets Lef‐1 to Regulate Molar and Incisor Development
Authors: Eliason Steven L , Bustillo Miguel Romero , Holton Nathan , Amendt Brad A
Published: November 2023

A microRNA‐26b‐5p (miR‐26b) over‐expression (OE) mouse was generated to understand the role of miR‐26b during embryonic development. The miR‐26b over expression mice have craniofacial defects including a lack of incisors, molars and hair. miR‐26b over‐expression mice have arrested early tooth development coincident with decreased epithelial progenitor cell proliferation. We demonstrate an inverse correlation between miR‐26b levels and Lef1 expression in the craniofacial region of these mice. miR‐26b targets Lef‐1 to modulate Lef‐1 transcriptional activity. Both cyclin D1 and c‐myc expression are decreased as well as other cell proliferation mechanisms. miR‐26b expression correlates with the transition of Lef‐1 expression in the dental epithelium. miR‐26b regulates all Lef‐1 isoforms and Wnt signaling, dependent on the Lef‐1 isoform expressed in specific dental tissues. Oral epithelial‐specific overexpression of Lef‐1 can rescue these specific tooth defects. This is the first demonstration of a mouse model for miRNA regulation that has tooth agenesis. miR‐26b regulation of Lef‐1 is essential for normal tooth and craniofacial development.
Fgf8 dosage and tissue interactions contribute to jaw asymmetry in disease
Authors: Fish Jennifer L. , Dolan Katie , Green Rebecca , Marcucio Ralph S , Hallgrimsson Benedikt
Published: November 2023

Asymmetry in presence or severity of jaw defects is commonly observed in craniofacial congenital disorders, such as cleft palate. Fgf8 is a secreted signaling factor that contributes to the growth and development of many tissues, including the limbs and jaw. Using an allelic series of Fgf8 mutant mice to generate embryos with 5 distinct genotypes and Fgf8 dosages, we investigated the effects of reductions in Fgf8 dosage on size and symmetry of the jaw and limbs. Bone length was measured and compared left versus right in limbs and isolated dentaries of WT, heterozygous, and mutant neonatal skeletons. Mutant mandibles are smaller and much more variable in size than WT or heterozygote mandibles and exhibit directional asymmetry, with the left side more severely affected. In contrast, no apparent asymmetry was observed in the limbs, however, mutant limbs are smaller than in the other genotypes. These data suggest jaw development is more susceptible to reduction in Fgf8 dosage than is limb development. To investigate mechanisms underlying differential susceptibility to Fgf8 reduction, we compared Fgf expression in mandibles and limbs. To investigate mechanisms underlying directional asymmetry in the jaw related to Fgf8 reduction, we evaluated cell death and jaw patterning. Fgf8 mutants exhibit increased cell death in neural crest progenitors at E9.5 relative to WT, however, there is no difference in L‐R asymmetry between mutants and WT individuals. We do, however, observe asymmetry in jaw patterning (e.g, Dlx5 expression) in mutant embryos at E10.5. We also find asymmetry in first pharyngeal pouch (PP1) morphology. We hypothesize that early developmental interactions between the heart field (which is known to asymmetrically express Fgf8) and prospective pharyngeal endoderm fields contribute to asymmetry in PP1 development, which ultimately lead to asymmetry in jaw patterning and morphogenesis. Our data suggest that asymmetry in craniofacial defects may result from early asymmetries in gene expression coupled with developmental tissue interactions.

Support or Funding Information

R01‐DE019638 and R01‐DE021708 to R.M. and B.H.
Cutaneous Innervation of the Palmar Aspect of the Hand
Authors: Hurley Mary , Stevens Todd , Fracassi Rebecca , Neu Devlynn , Olivieri Marion P.
Published: November 2023

The median and ulnar nerves carry cutaneous sensory fibers for the skin of the palmar side of the hand. The distribution of cutaneous nerves on the dorsum varies according to authors of anatomy textbooks and atlases. Gray's Anatomy, Moore's Clinically Oriented Anatomy, Grant's Atlas of Anatomy, and Netter's Atlas cite variations of cutaneous nerve distribution on the dorsum of the hand. Description of the cutaneous distribution on the palmar side of the hand does not vary between these different sources. The median nerve supplies the palmar side of fingers 1–3 and the lateral side of finger 4, while the ulnar nerve supplies the palmar side of finger 5 and medial side of finger 4. This project examined the palmar cutaneous distribution of both left and right hands in a group of cadavers and did not discover any variations from the typical description. Future studies will explore cutaneous distribution on the dorsum of the hand.

Support or Funding Information

Supported and funded by the Department of Biology and Mathematics of D'Youville College, Buffalo, NY