bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comparative study of blood cultures and catheter for the Candida yeasts of origin nosocomial
Authors: Paterno Josne Carla , Doria Anelise C.O.C. , Santos Thaisa B , Naves Marcelo , Sales Elizabeth Oliveira , Khouri Sonia
Published: June 2021

The incidence of nosocomial infections by fungi have increased in recent decades, and 80% are caused by Candida species. The aim of this study was to characterize Candida yeasts isolated from central venous catheter (CVC) and blood cultures of hospitalised patients. Approximately 65% of the infections result from the migration of microorganisms the microflora of the skin, from the insertion site of the catheter and are due to biofilm formation. The methodology employed was to identify CVC and blood culture samples using CHROMagar®, CANDIFAST® and the automated VITEK® 2 Compact. To assess biofilm formation, we used a Scanning Electron Microscopy EVO MA 10 (SEM). The yeasts were the second microorganism most prevalent (17%) on catheter tip and blood culture along with Klebsiella pneumoniae and Staphylococcus epidermidis. We investigated 10 samples and 73% were identified through automated methodology, being 26% of strains of Candida albicans, 13% C. parapsilosis and C. tropicalis, 6% de C. glabrata, C. pelliculosa and C. guilliermondii. When analyzing the percentage of agreement between the results obtained in the three methodologies used, 80% of the strains had 67% agreement. Using SEM technique all samples were positive for catheter biofilm formation, concluding that their presence may influence the catheter‐related candidemia and that there is no single ideal method for identifying these emerging fungi.
Small intestine microscopic changes induced by HIV‐1 Nef expression in brain
Authors: Loucil Raisa , Chompre Gladys , Cruz Myrella L. , Hernandez Siomara , Isidro Raymond A. , Isidro Angel A. , Appleyard Caroline B. , Noel Richard J.
Published: June 2021

Gastrointestinal (GI) pathology is a recurrent problem during HIV infection and progression. HIV enteropathy may be associated with a specific cause; however some HIV‐positive individuals present idiopathic enteropathy that appears to involve inflammatory processes. The presence of increased plasma LPS due to GI inflammation in patients with HIV associated dementia suggests a brain‐gut connection. We found that HIV‐1 Nef expression by astrocytes in rat hippocampus produces spatial memory deficits, but did not address possible GI effects.

Aim

Determine if microscopic changes in the GI tract result from expression of Nef in the rat hippocampus.

Methods

Astrocytes transfected to express Nef or GFP (control) were infused into the right hippocampi of Sprague Dawley rats (30‐day‐old). After 2 days of recovery, the rats were euthanized to harvest the ileum. Paraffin embedded tissues were stained for H&E.

Results

Histological analysis showed thinning of the intestinal wall and increased size and number of goblet cells in the Nef group. The lamina propria of the Nef‐treated rats was wider and shorter and Peyer's patches in the ileum showed massive reactive follicular lymphoid hyperplasia.

Conclusion

These studies suggest that HIV‐1 Nef expression in the rat hippocampus induces inflammation as well as microscopic changes in the small intestine. G12RR003050, G12MD007579 & R25GM082406.
Luminal [Na+] enhances Bacteroides thetaiotaomicron growth in vitro and in the NHE3−/− mouse terminal ileum
Authors: Engevik Melinda A. , Shull Gary E. , Worrell Roger T.
Published: June 2021

Microbial dysbiosis is known to play a key role in a variety of complex diseases such as IBD, diabetes, obesity and C. difficile‐associated disease. Little is known regarding the effect of epithelial ion transport processes on the intestinal microbiota. Na+/H+ exchanger isoform 3 (NHE3) plays an integral role in intestinal Na+ absorption and was used to examine region specific microbial dysbiosis. qRT‐PCR revealed that NHE3−/− mice exhibit bacterial overgrowth and microbial dysbiosis in both the lumen and mucosa‐associated bacteria with decreased Firmicutes and increased Bacteriodetes. The genus Bacteroides and the species Bacteroides thetaiotaomicron (B. theta) were significantly increased only in the NHE3−/− terminal ileum where a luminal [Na+] of 43±1 mM was found (WT was 33±3 mM). This correlated with the optimal [Na+] for B. theta growth in vitro,~44 mM Na+. Increased B. theta correlated with increased fut2 mRNA and fucosylation in the NHE3−/− terminal ileum. This study provides a first look at microbial dysbiosis due to altered ion transport. Our data shows the NHE3−/− mice exhibit region specific microbial dysbiosis with changes in B. theta, which correlate with luminal [Na+] and host epithelial changes. These data together show a mechanism for B. theta proliferation and contribution to microbial dysbiosis in the NHE3−/− mouse intestine. Supported by NIH DK079979 to RTW and DK050594 to GES.
Intestine‐Specific Overactivation of SREBP2 in Mice Increases Plasma Cholesterol
Authors: Malhotra Pooja , Ma Ke , Soni Vinay , Shen Le , Turner Jerrold R , Gill Ravinder K , Dudeja Pradeep K , Alrefai Waddah A
Published: June 2021

Sterol Response Element Binding Protein 2 (SREBP2) transcription factor is a master regulator of cholesterol homeostasis. Treatment with statins, inhibitors of cholesterol synthesis, activates intestinal SREBP2 that may hinder their cholesterol‐lowering effects. Overactivation of SREBP2 in mouse liver was shown to have no effect on plasma cholesterol. However, the influence of activating intestinal SREBP2 on plasma cholesterol is not known. We have generated a novel transgenic mouse model with intestine specific overexpression of active SREBP2 (ISR2) driven by villin promoter. ISR2 mice showed overexpression of active SREBP2 specifically in the intestine. Microarray analysis of jejunal RNA from ISR2 mice showed a significant increase in genes involved in fatty acid and cholesterol synthesis. Cholesterol (Chol) and triglyceride (TG) in jejunum and liver (mg/g protein) were significantly increased in ISR2 vs wild type mice (wt) (Chol: 20.2±1.5 vs 15.9±1.2; TG: 82.3±14.9 vs 30.4±4.9; Chol: 40.5±3.1 vs 22.7±0.9; TG: 83.1±3.1 vs. 50.8±3.6, respectively). Serum Chol was significantly increased in VLDL and LDL fractions in ISR2 vs wt mice (15.92±2.3 vs 5.8±2 and 50.36±5 vs 16.05±0.5 mg/dl, respectively). In conclusion, activation of intestinal SREBP2 alone seems to be sufficient to increase plasma cholesterol, highlighting the essential role of intestine in maintaining cholesterol homeostasis in the body. (Supported by VA and NIDDK).
Role of H+/K+‐ATPase and Na+/Ca2+ exchangers in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma cells
Authors: Giannuzzo Andrea , Wang Jing , Hoffman Else Kay , Pedersen Stine Helene , Novak Ivana
Published: June 2021

Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) has one of the worst cancer prognoses and a new initiative is to map the ion transportome to provide new therapeutic targets. Some of the hallmarks of cancer are increased glycolysis, altered H+ and Ca2+ homeostasis that may promote survival, motility and invasiveness. Pancreatic ducts express several unusual H+ and Ca2+ transporters and P2X receptors involved in secretion HCO3−‐rich and Ca2+‐poor pancreatic secretion. Our aim is to elucidate roles of gastric and non‐gastric H+/K+‐ATPase subunits (ATP4A, ‐B, ATP12A) and Na+/Ca2+ exchangers (NCX1, ‐2, ‐3) in regulation of H+ and Ca2+ transport and their contribution to PDAC progression. Using qPCR we investigated expression of transporters in several pancreatic cell lines: normal human duct cells HPDE; and PDAC cells Capan‐1, AsPC‐1, BxPC‐3, MIAPaCa‐2 and Panc‐1. The results show that NCX1 was down‐regulated in, e.g. BxPC‐3, while NCX2 and ‐3 were up‐regulated in some PDAC lines, e.g. AsPC‐1. ATP4A, ‐B, and ATP12A were up‐regulated in some PDAC, e.g. BxPC‐3 and Capan‐1. BxPC‐3 proliferation was attenuated by proton pump inhibitors. In conclusion, our study shows mRNA changes in H+ pumps and Ca2+ transporters in PDAC, and future studies will clarify the functions of these transporters in PDAC progression, as well as their regulation by P2X receptors/ion channels.

Funded by FP7 Marie Curie Initial Training Network “IonTraC”
Enhancement of Epithelial Tight Junctions By Nutraceuticals
Authors: Mullin James Michael , Valenzano Mary Carmen , Mercado Joanna M , Flounders Christopher J , Jeffers Cameron , Sedlak Jason
Published: June 2021

Using various epithelial cell culture models, the nutraceuticals zinc, quercetin, indole, resveratrol and glutamine have been shown to enhance tight junction barrier function. We show that their action is specific to the epithelial model being acted upon. Some increase transepithelial resistance. Some decrease paracellular D‐mannitol leak. Some do both. This depends upon the compound and the specific epithelial cell model. The structural effects of the nutraceuticals are likewise specific to the compound in question and the epithelial model, in terms of which tight junctional proteins are being up‐ or down‐regulated. Certain combinations of nutraceuticals can exhibit additive or even synergistic effects. The medical implications of these barrier‐enhancing nutraceuticals in various disease states are discussed.
Homodimers of the Claudin‐2 Polymerize to Tight Junctions of Canine Kidney Epithelial Cells
Authors: Boulatnikov Igor Georgievitch , Yu Alan
Published: June 2021

Claudin‐2 (CLDN‐2) is a member of a family of 27 tight junction transmembrane proteins. Claudins regulate paracellular ion transport in mammalian epithelial cells by forming either a barrier or a size‐ and charge‐selective pore. CLDN‐2 forms a high‐conductance cation pore, and controls sodium ion permeability. Little is known about the structural basis for ion selectivity of claudins. Their molecular organization into multiprotein complexes at tight junctions is also poorly understood. Recent biochemical studies have suggested that CLDN‐2 can form stable dimers in Madin‐Darby canine kidney (MDCK) II cells, while our mutagenesis studies indicate that CLDN‐2 pores exist as high order multimers. In the current work, we overexpressed tandem homodimers of CLDN‐2 in high‐resistance MDCK I TetOff cells. By Western blotting, cells exhibited inducible expression of CLDN‐2 dimers (~33 kDa) in the absence of doxycycline (−dox), which was almost completely suppressed by doxycycline. By immunofluorescence, the dimeric species of CLDN‐2 were colocalized with ZO‐1 at the apical junctional complex, with some additional intracellular staining at perinuclear area. The transepithelial resistance of cells overexpressing dimers of CLDN‐2 (−dox) was 1.5–2 times lower than in the presence of doxycycline. Our results indicate that tandem dimers of CLDN‐2 polymerize to tight junctions and function normally as paracellular pores suggesting that the native stoichiometry of CLDN‐2 is a multiple of two subunits. Our study may help to understand how claudins are organized into oligomers at tight junctions. This study is supported by NIH grant U01‐GM094627
Intestinal epithelial claudin‐2‐dependent paracellular pores drive both diarrhea and survival in immune‐mediated colitis
Authors: Khramtsova Ekaterina A , Khramtsova Galina F , Tamura Atsushi , Shen Le , Tsukita Sachiko , Turner Jerrold R
Published: June 2021

The tight junction protein claudin 2 (cldn2) creates paracellular pores that carry water and small cations. Intestinal cldn2 expression falls rapidly after weaning, but is increased in human and murine colitis. We used the CD4+CD45RBhi adoptive transfer (AT) colitis model and cldn2−/− mice to determine the impact of cldn2 upregulation on progression of immune‐mediated colitis. By day 30, cldn2+/+RAG1−/− (WT) AT recipients developed colitis associated with positive fecal occult blood test (FOBT, 47%), weight loss, diarrhea, and increased intestinal cldn2 expression. Appearance of FOBT (18% at d30), weight loss, and diarrhea were markedly delayed in cldn2−/−RAG1−/− (KO) mice. Although fecal water content was similar in WT (58±5%) and KO (54±1%) mice at baseline, disease‐associated increases were far greater in WT mice at day 23 (WT 70±1%; KO 58±1%) and 50 (WT 89±1%; KO 65±1%). Remarkably, 40% of cldn2 KO mice died by day 50, while all WT mice survived. These data indicate that development of diarrhea is enhanced by cldn2 upregulation that, in turn, facilitates paracellular water and cation flux to augment disease severity. Prevention of cldn2‐dependent diarrhea improves clinical status in early disease. However, KO mice ultimately display increased mortality, possibly due to loss of the innate flushing response. Thus, cldn2 upregulation in colitis may be both maladaptive (early) and adaptive (late).
Degradation of tight junction proteins in meprin betatransfected kidney cells subjected to hypoxia
Authors: George Jasmine Nicole , Ongeri Elimelda Moige
Published: June 2021

Tight junctions prevent paracellular leakage in epithelial cells. Meprins, metalloproteinases that are abundantly expressed in the brush border membranes of proximal kidney tubules, have been implicated in the pathology of ischemia reperfusion (IR) induced kidney injury. Disruption of the meprin [beta] gene, or pretreatment with the meprin inhibitor, actinonin, both protect mice from IR‐induced renal injury. The mechanism by which meprins cause kidney injury is not fully understood. The goal of the current study was to determine if hypoxia activates meprins leading to degradation of the tight junction proteins. Meprin β transfected MDCK cells were depleted of oxygen by exposure to cobalt chloride. Non‐transfected MDCK cells were used as controls. Proteins were extracted and fractionated into cytosolic‐, nuclear‐ and membrane‐enriched fractions. Western blot analysis was used to quantify the levels and fragmentation of occludin and E‐cadherin in the membrane‐enriched protein fractions. A time‐dependent degradation of both E‐cadherin and occludin was observed in the cobalt chloride treated meprin β transfected cells but not in non‐transfected control cells. This suggests that hypoxia triggers activation of meprin B, leading to degradation of the two tight junction proteins. Meprin degradation of tight junction proteins may be partly responsible for the renal injury observed in IR.
Saline loading does not change renal medullary blood flow in essential hypertension
Authors: Assersen Kasper Bostlund , Gam Jens Christian , Damkjær Mads , Valentin Sara , Olsen Michael Hecht , Diederichsen Axel , Høilund‐Carlsen Poul Flemming , Bie Peter
Published: June 2021

In essential hypertension (EH), the natriuresis during saline loading is exaggerated. It was hypothesized that this phenomenon is associated with an increase in renal medullary blood flow. Patients (n=6) with mild, monosymptomatic EH were investigated after an 18‐d drug washout period including 4 d on standardized diet. Regional, renal blood flows were determined before and after saline loading (0.72 mmol/kg/h for 4 h) by Positron Emission Tomography and Computer Tomography (PET/CT) using H215O tracer (Am J Physiol Regul Integr Comp Physiol 299:R1449, 2010). Renal medullary blood flows (ml/(g tissue)/min) were 2.0 ±0.4 and 1.7 ±0.3* before and after saline loading, respectively. During saline loading BP (mmHg) changed from 147.6/86.1 ±6.5/3.1 to 157.1*/92.1† ±4.4/3.3. Renal sodium excretion (μmol/min) increased from 39.2 ±7.0 to 145.6 ±38.5†. It is concluded that the increase in renal sodium excretion during saline loading is not associated with an increase in renal medullary blood flow. *(P = ns) †(P < 0.05)

Funded by The Danish Heart Foundation and The University of Southern Denmark.
Aliskiren and/or vitamin D suppress renal inflammation in db/db mice
Authors: Takenaka Tsuneo , Inoue Tsutomu , Ohno Yoichi , Miyazaki Takashi , Suzuki Hiromichi
Published: June 2021

In the present study, the effects of vitamin D and aliskien, a direct renin inhibitor, on renal klotho and inflammation was assessed in four groups of mice (n=10 for each group); db/db mice as a control (C), those treated with aliskiren (50 mg/kg/day) (A), mice treated with calcitriol (30 ng/kg/day) (V), and mice treated with both aliskiren and calcitriol (A+V). Two months later, rats were killed with over‐anesthesia, and harvested the kidney for analysis. Albuminuria was markedly decreased in A and A+V groups, compared to group C. Albuminuria in V group was also moderately lower than C. Renal angiotensin II concentration was decreased in A and A+V groups, compared to C group (p<0.05). Urinary excretion of 8‐epi‐prostaglandin F2α (8‐epi‐PGF2α), an oxidative stress marker, was lower in V and A+V groups than C group (p<0.05). Renal klotho expression was preserved in A, V and A+V groups, compared to C group. Although abundance of ikB did not differ among 4 groups, phosphorylated ikB (p‐iKB) was attenuated in A, V and A+V groups (p<0.05). Our findings demonstrated that aliskiren suppressed renal angiotensin II levels, reducing albuminuria in db/db mice. The present data indicate that vitamin D preserved klotho expression, attenuating systemic oxidative stress in diabetes. The current results suggest that albuminuria plays an important role to elicit renal inflammation in db/db mice.
Plekha7, a candidate gene for human hypertension, plays a critical role in the regulation of intracellular calcium
Authors: Endres Bradley , Priestley Jessica RC , Palygin Oleg , Hoffman Matthew , Moreno Carol , Lombard Julian , Jacob Howard J , Geurts Aron M
Published: June 2021

Plekha7 (Plekstrin homology domain containing family A member 7) has been identified by numerous genetic studies as a candidate gene for human hypertension. We disrupted Plekha7 in the SS rat by Zinc‐Finger Nuclease (ZFN) mutagenesis in order to investigate its role in blood pressure control. Four weeks on a high salt diet (8% NaCl) produced no changes in blood pressure between mutant and wild‐type (WT) littermates, although mutants demonstrated improved renal phenotypes (reduced proteinuria, protein casting, glomerulosclerosis, and fibrosis). We hypothesized that these differences were caused by vascular changes in the Plekha7 mutants. Resistance arteries from these mutants were less responsive to dilators acetylcholine (logEC50 of −6.01±0.17 vs. − 6.66±0.12, p≤0.05) and nitroprusside (logEC50 of −7.19±0.14 vs. − 7.66±0.13, p≤0.05) but showed no difference in contractile response to phenylephrine (PE) or endothelin‐1. In Ca2+‐free buffer, vessels contracted more to 10 μM PE (32.44±2.08% vs. 15.58±2.89%, p≤0.05), indicating an elevation in intracellular Ca2+ content. In isolated glomeruli, there was an amplified intracellular Ca2+ response to high extracellular Ca2+. These data indicate that despite a lack of evidence for controlling blood pressure in the SS rat, Plekha7 plays an integral role in vascular function through regulation of intracellular Ca2+.
Myocardial infarction increases noradrenergic activity in medial prefrontal cortex and impairs consolidation of fear extinction more in female rats
Authors: Scrogin Karie Elizabeth , Samarel Allen , Koshman Yevgeniya
Published: June 2021

Anxiety often develops after myocardial infarction (MI), particularly in women. Patients with anxiety often show a deficit in the ability to recall that a fearful cue no longer predicts danger (extinction recall), a process that requires adrenergic receptor activation in the infralimbic medial prefrontal cortex (ILmPFC). Here, we assessed noradrenergic activity in the ILmPFC and extinction recall after MI. Rats were subjected to fear conditioning with footshock, and sham or real coronary artery ligation. 8 weeks after surgery, male MI rats (n=4) had larger fear responses to the conditioned cue compared to male controls (n=6, P<0.05). Fear could be extinguished in both groups, and both readily recalled extinction 24 hrs later. Female MI rats (n=6) showed similar fear to the cue and fear extinction as female controls (n=6), but they did not recall extinction 24hrs later (P<0.05). Tyrosine hydroxylase expression was increased in noradrenergic nerve terminals of the ILmPFC after MI (P<0.05) and the effect was exaggerated in female rats (P<0.05). We conclude that chronic increases in noradrenergic activity in the ILmPFC may contribute to deficits in consolidation of extinction memories after MI in females
ER stress and a chronic inflammatory response are induced in an Angiotensin II/DOCA salt model of chronic kidney disease.
Authors: Mohammed‐Ali Zahraa , Cruz Gaile L , Jafar Baqer , Austin Richard C , Dickhout Jeffrey G.
Published: June 2021

We have developed a C57BL/6 mouse model of Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD). The mice underwent a uninephrectomy (Unx) or a sham operation. Unx mice received 1% NaCl in the drinking water and a 50 mg 21‐day release deoxycorticosterone (DOCA) pellet with Angiotensin II (AngII) infusion (1.5 ng Ang II/minute/g). Mice were sacrificed at day 21. This model produced CKD characterized by hypertensive proteinuria. We hypothesized that hypertension‐induced proteinuria results in endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress as microarray studies in patients with established proteinuria showed upregulation of unfolded protein response (UPR) genes. In the model, electron microscopy showed disruption of the podocyte filtration barrier. Light microscopy revealed an increase in PAS‐positive intratubular protein casts. RT‐PCR analysis showed increased ER stress markers: GRP78, spliced XBP1, CHOP and TDAG51. TUNEL staining showed increased apoptosis in the tubular epithelium of Unx animals. An increase in T‐cell and macrophage infiltration confirmed an inflammatory response to CKD accompanied by renal interstitial fibrosis as shown by de novo α‐smooth muscle actin and collagen staining. This response may be due to ER stress induced pro‐inflammatory mediators such as NFκB. Future studies will assess whether the therapeutic inhibition of ER stress could alter the progression of chronic inflammation in CKD. Funding, CIHR OSO‐115895.
Epistasis Involving Variations within Noncoding Elements Accounts for ‘Missing Heritability’ of Two Closely‐linked Blood Pressure Loci
Authors: Waghulde Harshal , Pillai Resmi , Nie Ying , Gopalakrishnan Kathirvel , Kumarasamy Sivarajan , Farms Phyllis , Garrett Michael R , Atanur Santosh , Aitman Timothy J , Joe Bina
Published: June 2021

Genetic elements controlling complex polygenic traits such as blood pressure (BP) discovered to date do not collectively account for their inheritance. This void in knowledge is termed ‘missing heritability’. Interactions or epistasis between genetic factors may contribute to ‘missing heritability’. While linkage analyses detect epistasis, defining the limits of the interacting segments poses a significant challenge especially when the interactions are between loci in close proximity. The goal of the present study was to isolate two such epistatic BP loci on rat chromosome 5. Four sets of S.LEW bicongenic strains along with the corresponding S.LEW monocongenic strains were constructed and tested for BP. Significant epistasis was observed by 2 × 2 ANOVA in one out of 4 sets, wherein, SBPs of the two monocongenic strains were comparable to that of S, but the SBP of the bicongenic strain (157±4.3mmHg) was significantly lower than that of S (196±6.8mmHg, p<0.001). The LEW alleles within the interacting loci were 2.02Mb apart and were within 7.76Mb and 4.18Mb containing 2148 and 768 variants. The BP locus within 4.18Mb lacked variants within protein‐coding exons, ruling out structural protein‐protein interactions as candidate BP effectors. The current study thus provides evidence for variant/s within noncoding elements of one of the interacting loci as a candidate facilitating epistasis.
Integrative online/onsite system enhances histology learning in medical education
Authors: Curcio Daniella Franco , Yonamine Eduardo Sadao , Barros Mirna Duarte
Published: June 2021

Here we describe the development of a modular program of histology e‐classes and evaluate the effectiveness of an integrative system that articulates e‐learning with traditional onsite education. We produced a set of short e‐classes designed to first‐year medical students. Each e‐class included an online multiple‐choice test, with due date set for the day before the onsite lecture. Scores and statistics guided the onsite approach as they identified the essential information to be reviewed, emphasized and/or detailed in a particular topic. We compared student's grades in the main exams considering the equivalent group of students from the previous year as controls. Students were also required to answer a questionnaire on their learning experience with the program. We observed a general improvement and a positive overall acceptance. To translate the contents of traditional classes into short online videos has technically challenging pitfalls, requiring flexibility and improvement in our communication skills. The integrative learning system allowed for time optimization, since lectures could focus students’ needs and/or interests. Although interactivity and technology support are issues to be improved, the program brought good results, standing as another example e‐technology as a learning enhancer, when used as a facilitating feature, integrated to the traditional paradigm in medical education.
DISSECTION OF THE SUPRA‐CLAVICULAR REGION, A PLASTER OF THE B. CUNEO's COLLECTION
Authors: Le Floch‐Prigent Patrice
Published: June 2021

The anatomical veracity of an anatomical model of the B. CUNEO collection (#9 series) was studied. It belonged to the teaching collection of the René Descartes University. It represented the upper part of the trunk with the right shoulder, neck and head. The sagittal, median aspect was plane and painted in black as two other smaller, plane areas on the head : an horizontal one (with the lines: “Collection B. CUNEO/série n°9) and a coronal, posterior one. The dissection represented exclusively the right, supra‐clavicular triangle. Its limits were the sterno‐cleido‐mastoid muscle, the trapezius muscle and the middle third of the clavicle. The omohyoid muscle was represented as partially resected. The content of the region was the scalene muscles, some elements of the brachial and superficial cervical plexuses, the accessory nerve (XI), the thyro‐cervical artery and its branches. In the antero‐inferior angle, the lower parts of the internal and external jugular veins were represented. Several damages through the model proved that it was hollowed with a thickness of less than one centimeter. It was obtained from a mould. Each dissected element was painted in the usual colors of the anatomy.
Anatomy education in an integrated curriculum: Importance and benefits of training and evaluation of clinical faculty
Authors: Rennie William , Metzger Keith , Elkowitz David
Published: June 2021

Curricular integration in its various forms has blurred traditional lines of science and clinical content areas while gaining popularity among U.S. medical schools. The new challenge an anatomy education is finding ways to integrate anatomy and other structural sciences into a seamless combination with clinical medicine, finding its value in the curriculum as whole, not in an individual course. Educational methods within an integrated curriculum are often described as “learner‐centered” and in order to fully succeed must be carried forth through all aspects of the curriculum, including anatomy. Science educators must be willing and able to join with clinical educators in developing approaches that support the educational mission of these curricula without limiting the scope of the content for which they are responsible. Core faculty members play a key role in educating a new cadre of clinical educators in the learner‐centered methods more appropriately termed “facilitation” than “teaching” in order to promote a consistent approach to learning. We describe a successful faculty development and evaluation program to recruit, train and nurture clinical faculty from multiple disciplines in the methods necessary to promote effective integration of structural science and clinical medicine.
Assessing the cultural beliefs of medical students: impact on the cadaveric dissection experience in the gross anatomy laboratory
Authors: Khalil Ramy , Krum Janette , Jurjus Abdo R. , Slaby Frank , Jurjus Rosalyn A.
Published: June 2021

It is well established that cadaver dissection offers a beneficial learning experience to medical students in gross anatomy courses. Although researchers have sought to identify different learning styles in the dissection lab among students of various nationalities, no study has addressed the specific question of how a student's cultural identity or beliefs play a role in the emotional aspect of cadaver dissection.

The purpose of this study is to examine the emotional impact of cadaver dissection across cultures and whether this impact affects the learners or learning experience. This is a quantitative/qualitative study targeting first year medical students of various cultural backgrounds partaking in cadaveric dissection. Students will be recruited via e‐mail and will complete an online survey.

Based on preliminary oral responses, a relationship between students’ cultural identities and unique experiences in the gross anatomy laboratory was reported.

This study will help medical educators understand the student learning experience of cadaveric dissection as it relates to cultural identity and will facilitate the preparation of students for the dissecting room experience.

Grant Funding Source: N/A
Effects of classroom structure on retention and implementation of knowledge in students
Authors: Banda Anisha Manika , Steed Kevin , Schmalz Naomi , Ojukwu Kene , Diaz Molly , Padilla Jessica , Wisco Jonathan J.
Published: June 2021

Typical classroom instruction consisting of a block period style of education often incurs problems with retention and implementation of information by students. In the outreach program Anatomy Academy, students receive holistic health instruction regarding the human body. In this study two sessions of Anatomy Academy were conducted, each executed on different time tables. The first group of students attended a week long session, spending five hours each day at the program. The second group of students was taught the same curriculum for one hour each week for six weeks. While both groups were constructed with the same student‐teacher ratio, students in the second group who were on the block schedule were unable to connect with mentors on the same level as students in the first group. The increased willingness and ability of students in Group One to incorporate mentors’ advice into healthier lifestyle choices can be attributed to 1) the trust developed in the student‐teacher relationship over multiple hours of interaction; and 2) an excitement and incentive for retaining information. The integrative approach of AA speaks to the success of immersion‐style teaching in classroom settings in encouraging students to retain and actualize information beyond just the day of instruction.

Grant Funding Source: AAA
Opportunities in a new medical school: a longitudinal, integrated clinical anatomy curriculum
Authors: Hankin Mark , Bee Mary , Forbes William , Montante James , Eastwood Jennifer , Hajj‐Hussein Inaya , Afonso Nelia , Poznanski Ann , Venuti Judith , Gould Douglas
Published: June 2021

The Oakland University William Beaumont School of Medicine (OUWB) matriculated its founding class in 2011. As a new medical school, we have a singular opportunity to design an innovative anatomy curriculum. Since the Flexner report (1910), anatomical sciences have often been delivered in “silo” courses, using a regional or systemic approach. Consistent with the 2010 Carnegie Foundation Report, OUWB is developing a curriculum that focuses on active learning and collaborative, interprofessional education. The OUWB anatomy faculty, in collaboration with clinical faculty, are designing an integrated, anatomy learning experience that spans all 4 years of the curriculum. This includes: a clinically‐oriented, dissection‐based, interdisciplinary M1 core anatomy course; learning experiences in organ systems courses that emphasize clinical problems, skills and procedures; high‐yield modules from multidisciplinary teams in the clerkship years that expand anatomy concepts in the context of clinical problem‐solving; and M4 clinical anatomy electives that provide individualized, advanced student learning opportunities. Curriculum evaluation will include narrative evaluation from clinical supervisors, student feedback, and peer‐ and performance‐based assessment. Our curriculum supports OUWB's mission to integrate basic science principles with the art and practice of medicine.
Cadaver Presentations: An Integrative, Clinical Approach to Anatomy
Authors: Denham James W , Robichaud Franchesca , Abercrombie Caroline L , Kwasigroch Thomas E. , Browe Brigitte M , Monaco Paul J
Published: June 2021

The current standard for medical human anatomy courses includes a didactic and laboratory component where medical students learn about the human body through traditional lectures and laboratory dissection or prosection. At the Quillen College of Medicine, the Medical Human Gross Anatomy and Embryology course includes the traditional elements of lecture and laboratory dissection, but recently incorporated a longitudinal element that starts with the cadaver dissection during the traditional course. From the first day of class, students are encouraged to look at the cadaver as their first patient, keeping a chart of abnormal findings and determining likely health problems present—one of which will become their presentation topic. The first year of study is marked by an end of the year “mini‐grand rounds” where students present not only the anatomy, but also the biochemistry, physiology, histology and genetics involved in the cause of death or pathology findings related to their first patient. This project fuses classroom learning with clinical medicine, challenging students to look at their cadaver less as a tool for academics and more as their patient. This project is planned to be projected into the second year, where an additional presentation encompassing elements of pathology, pharmacology, microbiology, immunology, neuroscience and lifespan and development (introduction to psychiatry) can also be presented, as appropriate.
Ultrasound imaging the liver: a supplement to abdominal dissection
Authors: Lee Vaughan H
Published: June 2021

Advances in ultrasound technology are rapidly making ultrasound imaging an important tool for physicians at point of care. In an effort to prepare our students for this aspect of their medical future, TTUHSC/SOM is incorporating ultrasound techniques in undergraduate medical curriculum. An ultrasound session was designed for first year students in Clinically Oriented Anatomy and incorporated into their dissection session of the abdomen. Each student obtained a traverse ultrasound view of the liver in a standardized patient emphasizing position of the liver relative to the diaphragm and inferior vena cava, as well as other structures (hepatic veins, portal veins, caudate lobe and ligamentum venosum). The exercise was assessed by two questions on the practical exam about liver structure using ultrasound images. Average student performance on these questions was good (87.5% and 93.75%). Student opinion was assessed by survey questions. Effectiveness and desire for more US sessions received scores of 4.40 and 4.62, respectively, on a five‐point Likert scale. Students indicated a desire for more ultrasound sessions with more in‐depth training. Supplementing dissections with ultrasound imaging can augment the dissection experience and introduce students to clinical skills. This project was funded by the Department of Cell Biology and Biochemistry and the School of Medicine, TTUHSC.
Predictive Understanding of RNA Dynamic Behavior: Bringing Order to Disorder
Authors: Al‐Hashimi Hashim , Petzold Katja , Chugh Jeetender , Mustoe Tony , Dethoff Elizabeth , Brooks Charlie
Published: June 2021

We describe how simple topological constraints can enable the quantitative description of RNA global structure and dynamics based on secondary structure. In particular, the topology of helix‐junction‐helix motifs encodes tunable restrictions on the orientation of helices, providing a basis for narrowing the range of conformations that can be sampled robustly by a given RNA. We also describe new NMR data showing that RNA molecules often adopt alternative secondary structures that exist in very low abundance (populations <10%) and for very short periods of time (lifetimes as low as microseconds). These transient states of RNA can also be predicted based on secondary structure prediction programs. Finally, we describe efforts towards engineering RNAs with prescribed dynamic properties.
RNA chaperone activity of DEAD‐box ‘helicase’ proteins
Authors: Russell Rick , Pan Cynthia , Jarmoskaite Inga
Published: June 2021

Cellular RNAs are able to fold to specific functional structures and carry out a host of critical processes despite an inherent propensity of RNA to fold to alternative conformations. In vivo, RNA misfolding is mitigated by RNA chaperones, notably DEAD‐box ‘helicase’ proteins. CYT‐19 is a Neurospora crassa DEAD‐box protein that chaperones folding of several mitochondrial group I introns. To probe the mechanisms of RNA chaperone activity, we have dissected CYT‐19‐promoted folding of the well‐studied Tetrahymena group I intron ribozyme. This ribozyme misfolds to a long‐lived intermediate, and the DEAD‐box chaperone protein CYT‐19 accelerates its folding to the native state by using ATP to promote RNA unfolding non‐specifically. This unfolding allows loss of the non‐native structure and a second chance for the RNA to fold correctly. Although CYT‐19 and other DEAD‐box proteins possess limited helicase activity, their substrate RNAs are globular and include extensive tertiary structure, and it is not clear how unfolding of complex RNA structures is achieved. I will describe recent single molecule fluorescence and biochemical experiments that probe directly whether CYT‐19 can use ATP‐dependent RNA binding and unwinding activities to disrupt tertiary contacts within the intron. The results have implications for how DEAD‐box proteins chaperone RNA folding processes.
Evaluation of anatomy comic strips for further production and applications
Authors: Chung Min Suk
Published: June 2021

Comic strips have been sketched to explain anatomy humorously. All comic strips in both Korean (550 episodes) and English (300 episodes) can be viewed on the homepage (anatomy.co.kr). They were created with the intention of assisting medical students, but the impact was unknown, so we surveyed responses of students and gained the following results. Anatomy grades were better in the students with exposure to the comic strips. Comic strips helped the trainees chat with medical and non‐medical persons. The authors also paid attention to comments about the comic strips defects and attempted to find solutions. Production and educational uses of comic strips are ongoing. To support that effort, the valuable opinions of readers will be continuously gathered and reflected upon. The article (title, Anatomy comic strips) was published in the journal, Anatomical Sciences Education on September, 2011. In addition, the same homepage presents the science comic strips in order to introduce the comical situations encountered by scientists.
Retrieval Learning as a Guiding Tool for Prematriculation Students in the Study of Histology
Authors: Cui Dongmei , Pavlov Anna K , Yang Tong , Lynch James C
Published: June 2021

Numerous recent studies have suggested that the act of retrieving previously‐encoded information is itself an aid to learning and promotes both the short‐term retention as well as long‐term retention of that information. “Retrieval learning” appears to be a more effective learning methodology than repeated study of the same material. We introduced retrieval learning exercises into a histology class for summer prematriculation students, who had been accepted into either medical school or dental school but had not yet begun their formal course work. Most students had not taken a histology course in undergraduate school. The students were encouraged to use the following methods during their study of histology materials: (1) organize histological terms in logical way and associate the terms with images to visualize the materials; (2) practice recalling the logical relationship in the materials to enhance memory; (3) practice recalling outlines to highlight important points; and (4) practice recalling summary tables to overview the materials. We conducted a survey in the class that showed about half of the students agreed that retrieval learning methods were effective in studying histology. Although most of the students used lecture PowerPoints as their main source of study materials, many agreed that the additional techniques associated with retrieval learning helped them to improve their learning outcome.
Evaluation of a novel online systemic human anatomy course
Authors: Attardi Stefanie Marie , Rogers Kem A
Published: June 2021

An online section of an existing undergraduate systemic human anatomy course with a laboratory component is in its inaugural year. Lectures for face‐to‐face (F2F) students are broadcast in live and archived format to online students using virtual classroom software (Blackboard Collaborate). Laboratory demonstrations are delivered online by a teaching assistant who can manipulate 3D anatomical models in the virtual classroom for the students to see. Students may independently study the 3D models on their own computers. A mixed methods approach is being undertaken to determine the effectiveness of the online delivery format. Means for each measure of student performance (4 tests, 24 laboratory quizzes) are under comparison between the sections. Incoming grade point averages will be compared to final Anatomy grades to determine if previous academic performance impacts performance in the F2F or online formats. Preliminary data suggest that student academic performance in the course is not impacted by the online delivery format. Student perceptions of the learning experiences in the online and F2F environments will be revealed. Student interviews will be conducted following a cross over that exposes them to both delivery formats. Themes will be established from interview data and used to generate data‐driven (grounded) theory about the strengths and weaknesses of the online format.

Grant Funding Source: Departmental Funding
The development of a web‐based interactive tool to complement anatomy and radiology teaching and learning
Authors: Krebs Claudia , Oyedele Olusegun , Fejtek Monika , Tolhurst Stefano
Published: June 2021

The ability to understand and interpret radiological images is a required competency in North American medical graduates. Prerequisite to this is a good knowledge of human anatomy. A radiology workshop, introduced as part of the Fundamentals of Body Design (FoBD) Year 1 UBC MD undergraduate program (MDUP), revealed our students’ need for a user‐friendly radiology resource to assist independent study of the material presented during the workshop. This study aimed to deliver such a resource to complement the teaching and learning of anatomy and radiology in the MDUP. Digital archives of normal X‐rays and CT scans, sourced from one of UBC's MDUP sites were accessed and compiled according to learning objectives of the FoBD radiology curriculum. Pixen® graphics open source software was used to highlight key anatomical structures, based on FoBD objectives. Multiple colour images thus created for each radiological film were saved as distinct graphics layers, built into interactive html web pages using JavaScript® and Cascading Style Sheets®, and uploaded to www.clinicalanatomy.ca. UBC students currently accessing these images are able to study radiological anatomy interactively by repeatedly highlighting/unmarking structures of interest with the click of a mouse. Landmarks indistinct or vaguely apparent to the untrained eye are rendered more easily discernible, thus enriching the student's learning experience.

Grant Funding Source: Source of funding: UBC Faculty of Medicine Undergraduate Program
The value of drawing in anatomical education and its effects on academic performance and retention
Authors: Rosa Sara Marie
Published: June 2021

Considering everyone learns differently, it is imperative that educators broaden their instructional methods to include all types of learners. Drawing is an educational strategy that can enhance observational skills and heighten attention. It was hypothesized that drawing would facilitate the learning of anatomy and would be positively reflected in assessment outcomes and retention. The subject group for this pilot study consisted of ten undergraduate students enrolled in Introductory Human Anatomy, at Queen's University. Participants attended four sessions where they drew anatomical structures using both cadaveric specimens and selected images as a guide. Topics included subject matter not taught in the course: muscles of mastication, Circle of Willis, brachial plexus and components of the knee joint. A multiple choice quiz was administered at the end of each session to assess learning that occurred as a result of drawing and students received average scores of 68%, 88%, 92% and 78% for respective sessions. To evaluate long‐term retention, a memory quiz was administered at completion of the study where participants scored 78% and 58% on the multiple choice and drawing components respectively. Taking into account both quantitative and qualitative data, it can be concluded that drawing is effective in the learning of anatomy and that this approach would be most beneficial if implemented in a laboratory setting.
Day One: What are the possibilities for the first day of gross anatomy courses?
Authors: Metzger Keith A , Elkowitz David E , Rennie William
Published: June 2021

The first day of gross anatomy courses varies across curricula, potentially including cadaveric dissection, memorial services, or other introductory activities. We assert that the first day of an anatomy course is a crucial formative experience, and as such has great potential for the acquisition of knowledge, skills and attitudes related to a student's professional development.

We present an overview of the day one activities at the Hofstra North Shore‐LIJ School of Medicine, focusing on how they address course and curricular objectives. Our first lab is a four‐hour session titled “Observation and Correlation.” In the first half of the session, students work in small groups, refining their clinical observation skills through external examination of a cadaver. Discussion with each other and a facilitator extends observations to inferences about the medical, psychological and social history of the cadaver. The second half involves pulse point dissection, allowing appreciation of relationships between external points and underlying structures. Faculty help to guide, but do not orchestrate the discussion. We believe these activities address several fundamental principles of clinical observation, including its dual sensory/cognitive nature, the distinction between observation and inference, the importance of description, and the goal‐oriented nature of clinical observation (Boudreau et al., 2008).