bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
PRAP1: A Novel Epithelial Secreted Protein
Authors: Wolfarth Alexandra , Neish Andrew
Published: June 2021

Proline rich acidic protein‐1 (PRAP1) is a 17 kDa secreted intrinsically disordered protein encoded in higher chordates with no known function or recognizable sequence homology. In the course of evaluating transcriptional activation in murine gut by members of the Lactobacilli taxon, we found PRAP1 induced in the colon within 4 hours of oral gavage with 108 Lactobacilli. To define the physiological role of PRAP1, we have made polyclonal antibodies, PRAP1 recombinant protein and Prap1 null mice. Measurement of PRAP1 expression by qPCR and western blot reveal PRAP1 expression is highest in the proximal small intestine, and interestingly, in a hormonally dependent manner in uterine endometrial cells of female mice. This expression pattern is consistent with immunofluorescence staining demonstrating high expression of PRAP1 in the enterocytes of the duodenum, goblet cells of the ileum and uterine endometria, as well as in the extracellular space of the corresponding mucosal tissue. Preliminary in vivo data shows Prap1 null mice have increased inflammation in the gastrointestinal tract and uterus, along with increased systemic inflammation. Given the localization of PRAP1, its secretion into the lumen of the small intestine and uterus, and its effect on local and systemic inflammation, we hypothesize that PRAP1 is a novel intrinsically disordered protein that contributes to the intrinsic defenses of mucosal epithelial surfaces.

Support or Funding Information

NIH RO1 AI 64462

This abstract is from the Experimental Biology 2018 Meeting. There is no full text article associated with this abstract published in The FASEB Journal.
Anti‐cancer activity of non‐pungent capsaicin analogs: A Structure‐Activity Study
Authors: Friedman Jamie Rae , Gadapalli Rama S. , Akers Austin T. , Nolan Nicholas A. , Brown Kathleen C. , Colclough Kate W. , Miles Sarah L. , Rimoldi John M. , Dasgupta Piyali
Published: June 2021

The nutritional compound capsaicin is the major spicy ingredient of chili peppers. Although traditionally associated with analgesic activity, recent studies have shown that capsaicin has profound anti‐neoplastic effects in several types of human cancers. However, the applications of capsaicin as a clinically viable drug are limited by its unpleasant side effects, such as gastric irritation, stomach cramps and burning sensation. This has led to extensive research focused on the identification and rational design of second‐generation capsaicin analogs. Previous studies have shown that addition of long‐chain unsaturated groups after the amide group of capsaicin were non‐pungent and retained the bioactivity of capsaicin. The chemical nature of these compounds are unsaturated N‐acylvanillamides (uN‐AVAMs). However, a majority of these uN‐AVAMs have been studied for their pain‐relieving activity. We synthesized a panel of uN‐AVAMs with 0–4 double bonds in the side chain of capsaicin. We investigated the growth‐inhibitory activity of these compounds with an MTT‐based screening assay. We selected our “hit compound” Arvanil for further studies. Next, we compared the apoptotic activity of arvanil and capsaicin in a panel of human small cell lung cancer (SCLC) cells. We observed that the non‐pungent capsaicin‐analog arvanil displayed greater magnitude of apoptosis than capsaicin. The pro‐apoptotic activity of arvanil and capsaicin was mediated by the intracellular calcium pathway. We measured the uN‐AVAM‐induced levels of intracellular calcium in SCLC cells. The pattern of uN‐AVAM‐induced intracellular calcium was analogous to the results obtained in the MTT assay. Therefore, the measurement of intracellular calcium may be used as a screening tool for capsaicin‐mimetics with anti‐cancer activity.

Support or Funding Information

Funding for our study was supported by a NIH R15‐AREA Grant (2R15CA161491‐02). Furthermore, this study was supported in part by an Institutional Development Award (IDeA) Grant number P20GM104932 from the National Institute of General Medical Sciences (NIGMS) and the Research Core B of COBRE, a component of the National Institutes of Health (NIH).

This abstract is from the Experimental Biology 2018 Meeting. There is no full text article associated with this abstract published in The FASEB Journal.
BZW1 is an independent prognosis marker for non‐small‐cell lung cancer
Authors: Chiou Jean , Hsiao Michael
Published: June 2021

Basic leucine zipper and W2 domain‐containing protein 1 (BZW1) plays a critical role in cell cycle for transcriptional control of histone H4 gene at the G1/S transition. Regarding that proliferation are dysregulated in cancer, we aim to unravel the role of BZW1 in lung cancer. Recent studies show that BZW1 promotes growth of salivary muocepodermoid carcinoma. The aim of the study is to determine the respective prognostic value of BZW1.

First, we search public database and analyzed BZW1 protein expression by immunohistochemical staining on tissue microarray samples. Further, we examined BZW1 expression in NSCLC cell lines and verify the functional role of BZW1 in NSCLC cell lines.

By searching public database, we found that BZW1 high expression was significantly correlated with poor prognosis in NSCLC, especially in lung adenocarcinoma. Similar trends were also shown in NSCLC patients tissue array. Knockdown of BZW1 inhibited cell migration and invasion but did not affect cell proliferation in NSCLC cell lines.

In conclusion, BZW1 expression is an independent prognostic factor in NSCLC, especially in lung adenocarcinoma.

This abstract is from the Experimental Biology 2018 Meeting. There is no full text article associated with this abstract published in The FASEB Journal.
Hepatocyte Specific Knockout of microRNA‐21‐5p Alleviates Acetaminophen‐Induced Hepatotoxicity by Activation of Autophagy
Authors: Xu Chao , Wang Li
Published: June 2021

Background

Acetaminophen (APAP)‐induced liver injury is the most frequent cause of acute liver failure in the US and many other countries, constituting a significant threat to patient health and has an enormous economic impact on health care expenditures. Significant increase in the level of microRNA‐21 in both liver tissues and in plasma have been observed in APAP overdosed animals and human. However, the mechanistic effect of miRNA‐21 on acute liver injury remains unknown.

Methods

Wild‐type and hepatocyte‐specific miRNA‐21 knockout (miR‐21 HKO) mice were treated with a toxic dose of APAP (400 mg/kg i.p.) after fasting for 15 hr. Blood samples and liver tissues were collected at 2 hr and 12 hr after APAP treatment. Histopathological changes, serum ALT, AST, and GST levels were evaluated. The expression levels of proteins and genes involved in inflammation, necrosis, apoptosis, and autophagy were measured.

Results

miR‐21 HKO mice were protected from APAP‐induced hepatotoxicity. Noticeably, the increased survival and a reduction of necrotic hepatocytes were observed in miR‐21 HKO mice after APAP treatment for 12 h. Compared with control littermates, miR‐21 HKO mice showed significantly lower levels of ALT and AST, which was accompanied by the reduced mRNA levels of IL‐1β, IL‐6, TNFα, and iNOS in the liver. JNK activation plays a pivotal role in APAP‐induced liver injury. However, the expression of phospho‐JNK showed no significant difference between WT and miR‐21 HKO mice. Both GSK3β‐mediated early phase attack and ASK1‐mediated late phase attack resulted in JNK activation. Consistently, there were no significant changes in these two pathways between WT and miR‐21 HKO mice upon APAP treatment. Moreover, the expression of genes related to necrosis and apoptosis didn't change either. Interestingly, the expression of p62, LC‐3B, and Beclin‐1 was markedly induced in miR‐21 ablated HKO compared to WT mice after APAP treatment, indicative of autophagy activation. Induction of autophagy can inhibit APAP‐induced hepatotoxicity. AMPK and mTORC1 are two key sensors to control autophagy. Compared with control littermates, miR‐21 HKO mice showed significantly higher level of AMPK after APAP treatment, which promoted the activation of autophagy. Interestingly, mTORC1 was also induced by miRNA‐21‐Deficiency.

Conclusions

Hepatocyte specific knockout of microRNA‐21‐5p alleviated APAP‐induced hepatotoxicity by activation of autophagy. Our findings provide novel mechanism insights into the understanding of APAP‐induced liver injury by miRNA‐21.

Support or Funding Information

Grant support: NIH R01DK104656, R01DK080440, R01ES025909, R21AA022482, R21AA024935, VA Merit Award 1I01BX002634, tsqn20161071.

This abstract is from the Experimental Biology 2018 Meeting. There is no full text article associated with this abstract published in The FASEB Journal.
Loss of Histamine Signaling Reduces Biliary and Hepatic Damage, Mast Cell Migration and Tumor Formation in 52 wk Old Multidrug Resistance‐2 Knockout Mice
Authors: Kennedy Lindsey , Demieville Jennifer , Hargrove Laura , Meadows Victoria , Francis Heather
Published: June 2021

Background

Primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC) is characterized by biliary damage and liver fibrosis. The multidrug resistance‐2 gene knockout (Mdr2−/−) mouse (i) develops cholestasis; (ii) mimics some characteristics of human PSC; and (iii) develops hepatocellular cancer (HCC) within one year. We have demonstrated that depletion of the l‐histidine decarboxylase/histamine (HDC/HA) axis using 12 week old HDC/Mdr2 double knockout (DKO) mice results in decreased (i) hepatic damage; (ii) mast cell (MC) infiltration and activation; (iii) biliary proliferation; (iv) inflammation and (v) liver fibrosis when compared to Mdr2−/− mice. The aim of our study was to evaluate the effects of the loss of the HDC/HA axis on biliary and hepatic damage, MC infiltration/activation and tumor formation in older Mdr2−/− and DKO mice.

Method

52 week old homozygous DKO mice and aged matched Mdr2−/− mice were utilized. Livers were evaluated for tumor formation and lobular damage by H&E staining. In total liver we evaluated: (i) HDC/histamine receptor (HR) expression by qPCR, (ii) MC infiltration by staining for mouse mast cell protease‐1, (iii) MC activation by qPCR for chymase, tryptase and c‐Kit expression, (iv) ductular reaction by CK‐19 and Ki67 immunohistochemistry and (v) biliary senescence by SA‐β‐galactosiadse activity and staining for p16, p18, p21 and p53. Changes in liver fibrosis were evaluated by Sirius red staining in liver sections, and staining for α‐SMA and collagen‐1a. Hepatic stellate cell (HSC) activation was determined by immunofluorescence and qPCR for SYP‐9. Inflammation was evaluated by staining for IL‐6, TNF‐α and F4/80. HA serum levels were measured by EIA. In livers and tumors (when present), we evaluated angiogenesis by VEGF and vWF gene expression.

Results

Loss of the HDC/HA axis in 52 week old DKO mice resulted in little to no tumor formation compared to age‐matched Mdr2−/− mice, which displayed large HCC tumors. The HDC/HA/HR axis and MC infiltration/activation were reduced in DKO mice compared to age‐matched Mdr2−/− mice. Infiltrating MCs were found near bile ducts. Ductular reaction, biliary senescence and hepatic fibrosis were increased in Mdr2−/− mice, but were reduced in DKO mice. Furthermore, angiogenesis and inflammation were all reduced in DKO when compared to age‐matched Mdr2−/− mice.

Conclusion

Our data demonstrates that depletion of the HDC/HA axis blunts tumor growth and progression in Mdr2−/− mice, which is coupled with reduced biliary and hepatic damage, and MC infiltration/activation. The HDC/HA axis may be a critical therapeutic target for patients with cholestasis or liver cancer.

Support or Funding Information

NIH NIDDK R01, VA Merit

This abstract is from the Experimental Biology 2018 Meeting. There is no full text article associated with this abstract published in The FASEB Journal.
The Association of Retrieval Practice and Sleep Consolidation with Student Grades in a Large Undergraduate Human Gross Anatomy Course
Authors: Perry Carolyn , Easteal Ronald
Published: June 2021

It has been shown that information retrieval through repeated practice testing, as opposed to repeated studying, is an efficient way of enhancing information retention and recall. In addition, it has been shown that sleep, a few hours after learning, enhances future information retrieval. However, there is very little research that implements these study strategies into large undergraduate classes under conditions that would exist naturally within a class setting and determines the influence they may have on student grades. We implemented both retrieval practice and sleep consolidation strategies into the course content of a large, third year undergraduate course in human gross anatomy and analyzed the association of each with student exam and final course grades. Retrieval practice occurred at the end of most lectures and at the beginning of each lab session, while sleep consolidation occurred once a week, the night before course laboratories. Students read the course notes covered throughout the previous week and were assigned practice questions to answer as they read through the material. The questions were not retrieval questions (ie. they were done as students read their notes) but simply a means of confirming that students had read through the material. Students received course credit of up to 5% for participating in each of the three components (lecture retrieval, lab retrieval, sleep consolidation). With data collection ongoing, correlations will be run to assess the relationship between retrieval practice and sleep consolidation with exam and final course grades. Multiple regression analysis will determine whether there is an additive predictive influence of retrieval practice and sleep consolidation on student grades. This will allow us to test whether participation in retrieval practice and sleep consolidation offers an advantage over retrieval practice alone.

This abstract is from the Experimental Biology 2018 Meeting. There is no full text article associated with this abstract published in The FASEB Journal.
Analysis of Dissection Methods to Facilitate Student Understanding of Knee Ligaments
Authors: Sterlin Lauren , Day Leslie
Published: June 2021

Research shows knee injuries are among the most common injury, and physical therapy is often used as an effective treatment intervention. To best diagnose and treat these injuries, clinicians must have a suitable understanding of knee anatomy. This knowledge is imparted through dynamic education which can be gained through cadaveric dissection and prosection educational models. The objective of this study was to analyze whether there was a better presentation and teaching method of knee ligaments to students that would optimize understanding of the knee anatomy and biomechanics. This study compared two dissection techniques, a traditional anterior‐posterior knee dissection and an alternative technique presented by Clemente et al (2009), to determine which technique would result in increased comprehension of the knee structures and higher test scores for Physical Therapy (PT) students. A single‐blinded randomized controlled trial was conducted using first‐year PT students in a semester‐long Gross Anatomy course. The cohort (n=92) consisted of both third‐year undergraduate students (n=70) and first‐year graduate students (n=22). Students were split into two groups, a control group (n=46) who viewed the traditional anterior‐posterior knee dissection and an experimental group (n=46) who viewed the alternative and traditional dissections. All students during laboratory sessions were taught identification and functioning of the knee ligaments utilizing the assigned dissection method. Data was collected from identification based practical exam and a multiple‐choice function based written exam during the co‐requisite lecture. Likert‐scale surveys were also conducted to determine students' confidence and preference of learning method. An independent t‐test should significant difference between control and experimental groups in the identification of the specific bands of the anterior and posterior cruciate ligaments in undergraduate students (p<0.05). There was no significant difference between groups in the identification of other structures in the knee or in questions regarding functioning of knee ligaments. However, students in the experimental group preferred the cadaver laboratory learning to a greater degree compared to the control group. Knee injuries are commonly seen in PT clinics and to treat these patients optimally, physical therapists need to understand the anatomy of the knee. This study compared two methods of teaching the anatomy of the knee for increased comprehension and determined that both types of dissection techniques are effective ways for teaching students about knee ligamentous anatomy.

This abstract is from the Experimental Biology 2018 Meeting. There is no full text article associated with this abstract published in The FASEB Journal.
Function‐First Exposure to the Wrist and Forearm Musculature
Authors: Gould Douglas , Drogowski Matthew
Published: June 2021

The objective of the present study was to assess whether a more functional presentation of the initial exposure of the anatomy of the forearm leads to greater student satisfaction and improved assessment performance. Traditionally, medical curricula and medical texts take a structural approach to teaching anatomy; this is particularly true for the study of the muscles. These approaches generally present the muscles in terms of layers and compartments. This method, despite its long‐standing reputation as effective, may not be the best approach for all students. Students may gain a deeper understanding of muscle structure and function after being taught from a more functional approach during their initial exposure, i.e. when it is linked more strongly to clinically‐relevant function, not just proximal and distal attachments, innervation, layers or compartment in which it resides. This study attempts to elucidate the differences on the understanding of human forearm anatomy, if any, between a traditional layer‐based approach and a function‐based approach. First‐ and second‐year medical students at the Oakland University William Beaumont School of Medicine (OUWB) were invited to participate in the evaluation of a control and experimental forearm anatomy learning module. After random assignment to one of the Soft Chalk online modules, participants completed a pre‐test, interacted with the module, participated in a post‐test and completed a usability study. The control group was exposed to typical layer‐based anatomy of the forearm, while the functional group was presented with a function‐based approach to the same anatomy. There were a total of 19 volunteer participants, seven in the functional group and twelve in the traditional group. Analysis using a 2‐Sample T‐Test and within groups using a Paired T‐Test indicates an insignificant difference in outcomes on the post‐test between the groups (p=0.765). Usability study results indicate that compared to the traditional group, the functional group found the module easier to navigate. Participants were also pleased with the clarity provided by the manner in which the wrist and associated musculature was presented relative to the more traditional, layer‐based presentation. Although the number of participants was not enough to produce significant results, preliminary trends would seem to support the notion that novel, ‘function‐first’ approaches to anatomy presentation may benefit students and enhance retention of material. Ideally, such results will encourage medical educators to explore alternative teaching methods to best serve their students.

This abstract is from the Experimental Biology 2018 Meeting. There is no full text article associated with this abstract published in The FASEB Journal.
The Effect of Formal Training on Undergraduate Teaching Assistants' Performance and Views Towards Teaching
Authors: Smith Theodore C. , Taylor Melissa , Reynolds Amberly , Taboas Charity , Husmann Polly , O'Loughlin Valerie
Published: June 2021

Undergraduate teaching assistants (UTAs) hold a vital role in the undergraduate anatomy laboratory setting. However, at our institution, only graduate teaching assistants receive formal training in pedagogical techniques. This project addresses the lack of formal training and its effect on UTAs' performance and attitudes towards teaching. UTAs completed a 2‐hour, in‐person training session before the start of the semester that covered presentation skills, scaffolding techniques, professionalism, and classroom management. The participants completed a pre‐ and post‐training session survey and an end‐of‐semester survey. In addition, evaluations of each UTA were completed by their respective graduate counterpart. Early results show that all participants (n = 14) believed a training session to be necessary and all reported that their expectations were met. A paired samples t‐test was conducted to compare the trainees' perspective on their UTA or graduate instructors' friendliness, knowledge, contribution to their success in the course and their role in the trainee applying to be a UTA. A significant difference was found in the knowledge factor (UTA (M=4.43, SD=.756); Graduate (M=4.93, SD=.267)); t(13)=−2.876, p = .013. The contribution to success factor (UTA (M=3.50, SD=.941); Graduate (M=4.71, SD=.469)), was also significant; t(13)=−4.660, p < .001. The influence in applying factor (UTA (M=4.21, SD=1.051); Graduate (M=4.71, SD=.469)) was also significant; t(13)=−2.188, p = .047. Qualitative analysis of trainees' responses was also performed. This work demonstrates a need for undergraduate teaching assistant training and elucidates the role of graduate instructors in the development of future anatomical science educators.

This abstract is from the Experimental Biology 2018 Meeting. There is no full text article associated with this abstract published in The FASEB Journal.
Using Technology and Active Learning in a Lecture Based Anatomy Course: Does it Help?
Authors: Lufler Rebecca S.
Published: June 2021

Health professions programs' accreditation bodies require incorporating interactive teaching strategies throughout curricula, however it can be difficult to employ due to heavy course load schedules and space restrictions. Technology can assist in implementing interactive strategies by providing a means of content delivery to students before class time. This can allow for class time to be more interactive, however, the effectiveness of utilizing a combination of technologies before and during class time is unclear. The objective of this study was to determine if creating an active classroom experience utilizing technology before and during class time increases student's knowledge of and confidence in the presented content.

50 1st year PA students watched a lecture that was given over the past three years in a short, content only video, created using “Expain Everything” the week before class. After watching the lecture, students filled out a short pre‐quiz on their understanding of the anatomy content. Using an iPad and Qualtrics, clinical cases were presented related to the anatomy content and students answered questions on the clinical applications in real time via Qualtrics. Students completed a post‐quiz at the end of the session. An anonymous survey was administered prior to the final exam to assess confidence in their understandin of the presented content. Quantitative data (pre‐quiz mean scores, post‐quiz mean scores, individual quiz question performance and performance on related exam questions) and qualitative data (survey confidence questions and session evaluation questions) were gathered.

50 (100%) students completed the pre‐quiz, 47 (94%) students completed the post‐quiz, and 45 (90%) students completed the survey. There were no significant differences between pre‐quiz and post‐quiz scores (mean 82.1 and 80.1, respectively). Qualitative data showed that students felt the pre‐recorded lecture was a helpful resource and they enjoyed using both the pre‐recorded lecture and Qualtrics classroom case questions. However, students did not feel more confident in their understanding of the material.

Based on these preliminary results, students did not perform better after the use of an active learning approach in a lecture based course. Further, while students may enjoy answering questions based on clinical correlations over listening to a live lecture, this teaching approach did not improve performance.

This abstract is from the Experimental Biology 2018 Meeting. There is no full text article associated with this abstract published in The FASEB Journal.
Integrating Disciplines for a Dynamic and Engaging Team Based Learning Session
Authors: Moore Kathryn B. , Morton David A. , Pippit Karly A.
Published: June 2021

Team based learning (TBL) is a validated pedagogy for incorporating active learning into medical education. The University of Utah School of Medicine (UUSOM) implemented weekly TBL's into each pre‐clinical course in order to enhance the foundational sciences teaching and clinical content. Foundations of Medicine (FOM), the first semester course at UUSOM, is taught in an integrated fashion. As such, faculty from multiple subject domains (anatomy, histology, physiology, biochemistry, and clinical medicine) combined and reduced learning objectives for a specific topic (i.e., respiratory system), and created integrated TBL sessions in place of flipped classroom, single subject TBLs or traditional didactic lectures. Pre‐work to cover the learning objectives associated with each TBL session included videos (self‐made or YouTube videos), worksheets, and textbook readings or narrated powerpoint slide shows. Readiness Assessment Questions (RATs) were constructed based upon the learning objectives and pre‐work. Group application questions consisted of multiple clinical vignettes assessing the student's ability to synthesize and problem‐solve using their knowledge of the clinical sciences. For example, questions were designed incorporating gross anatomy and histology knowledge with interpretation of CXRs, ECGs and lab values. Some questions were identification based, but the majority required problem solving and integration of concepts from each discipline. Utilizing clinical examples provided a way to apply the scientific concepts and to practice difficult skills such as reading CTs or interpreting ECGs. Student performance on mid‐term assessments was enhanced. Final exam performance is still pending, thus sustained retention is unknown. Student attendance, preparation, satisfaction and engagement for TBL sessions within the FOM course dramatically improved when compared to didactic lecture sessions. A further advantage of the integrative approach was the ability to cover more clinically relevant topics than a single subject TBL. Furthermore, the group application questions provided practice for course exams and for USMLE Step 1 preparation as questions were based upon clinical cases and high yield topics. Multidisciplinary TBL sessions may have benefit in health professional schools that are attempting to incorporate active learning and integration of multiple disciplines.

This abstract is from the Experimental Biology 2018 Meeting. There is no full text article associated with this abstract published in The FASEB Journal.
Breaking with tradition: A scoping meta‐analysis analyzing the effects of student‐centered and computer aided instruction on student performance in anatomy
Authors: Brown Kirsten M. , Wilson Adam B. , Misch Jonathan , Miller Corinne H. , Klein Barbie A. , Taylor Melissa A. , Goodwin Michael , Boyle Eve K. , Hoppe Chantal , Lazarus Michelle
Published: June 2021

As the debate regarding anatomy education efficacy continues, student‐centered learning (SCL) and computer aided instruction (CAI) are garnering educators' attention. Although Freeman et al. (2014) demonstrated that active learning strategies increase student performance across STEM disciplines, summative analyses exploring how SCL and CAI affect knowledge gains in anatomy education, specifically, are lacking. The present study mirrored the protocol of prior anatomy education‐focused meta‐analyses (Wilson et al., 2017; Wilson et al., 2016) to answer the question: “How effective are SCL and CAI at increasing student knowledge gains in anatomy compared to traditional didactic approaches?”

Relevant studies published over the past 51 years were searched using five databases. Strict eligibility criteria were applied to the screening of titles and abstracts to discern their appropriateness for study inclusion. A summary effect size was estimated to determine the effects of SCL and CAI on anatomy performance outcomes. A moderator analysis was also performed to gauge how certain study features may have influenced pooled effects.

Of the 3,035 records screened, 327 underwent full‐text review. Seven studies, which comprised 1,564 participants, were included in the SCL analysis. An additional 19 studies analyzed the effects of CAI in the context of 2,570 participants. Upon comparing SCL to traditional instruction, a small positive effect on learner performance was detected (standardized mean difference (SMD) = 0.24; p=0.006). Likewise, students with CAI exposure scored moderately higher than those with limited or no access to CAI (SMD=0.59; p=0.003). The moderator analysis also detected significant and sizable effects (SMD=1.44, [CI=0.57, 2.31], p=0.001) for supplemental CAI interventions (SMD=1.44, [CI=0.57, 2.31], p=0.001). Whereas no effect (p=0.16) was reported for replacement interventions.

Overall, learners exposed to SCL or CAI modestly outperformed their more classically‐trained peers, which is consistent with related research conducted outside of the scope of anatomy education. Note that these results represent knowledge gains in the short‐term and do not provide evidence of pedagogical efficacy for long‐term retention. Lastly, the supplemental versus replacement intervention findings further underscore the need for educational efficacy studies to have proper controls.

This abstract is from the Experimental Biology 2018 Meeting. There is no full text article associated with this abstract published in The FASEB Journal.
Chemically Prepared Cat Cadavers in Teaching of Surgical Technique ‐ Evaluation by Students of a Veterinary Medicine Course
Authors: OLIVEIRA FABRICIO SINGARETTI , Zero Raphael Chiarelo , de Sá Rocha Thiago André Salvitti , Minto Bruno Watanabe , Moraes Paola Castro , Dias Luis Gustavo Gosuen Gonçalves , De Nardi Andrigo Barboza
Published: June 2021

It is essential to humanely use live animals in research and teaching activities and consequently, to search for alternative methods that do not prejudice academic or scientific efforts. The objective of this work was to evaluate the opinions of veterinary undergraduate students as to the acceptability of using chemically prepared cat cadavers to teach surgical methods. Ten cadavers of cats were fixed with ethylic alcohol with 5% of glycerine (120ml/kg) for 60 days and preserved in 30% sodium chloride aqueous solution up to one semester. During the conservation time, students were asked to complete an evaluation form at the end of the surgery classes. The students assigned a score of 1 (very bad) to 10 (excellent) to the resistance of the skin (7.94±1.60). muscles (7.98±1.39). stomach (8.12±1.33). intestine (7.54±1.72). and urinary bladder (7.58±1.79) to incision/suture and the malleability of intestines (7.78±1.58), spleen (7.34±2.24) and liver (7.14±2.28) were evaluated. The average score was 7.68 ± 1.74, and 92% of the students were found to be in favor of the use of cadavers. In addition, 90% of the students favored initial surgical training with chemically preserved cadavers, followed by classes including live animals from the Veterinary Hospital who came for elective surgery, such as an orchiectomy or ovariohysterectomy.

Support or Funding Information

FAPESP, process 2015/08259‐9.

This abstract is from the Experimental Biology 2018 Meeting. There is no full text article associated with this abstract published in The FASEB Journal.
Expression of Nkx2.5 and Isl1 in the cardiopharyngeal mesoderm of developing Xenopus embryos
Authors: Siomava Natalia , Edwards Dameel , Ziermann Janine M.
Published: June 2021

The cardiopharyngeal field (CPF) is a mesodermal field that gives rise to the first (FHF) and second heart field (SHF)‐derived myocardium and the branchiomeric musculature. Isl1 and Nkx2.5 are transcription factors expressed in the CPF. Both genes are crucial for the specification of the myocardial cells derived from the SHF and for the further development of the heart in vertebrates. The importance of these genes is supported by the fact that perturbations in their expression lead to severe heart malformations and often result in embryonic death. In order to better understand the role of these two genes and their impact on the head and heart development, we analysed their expression in Xenopus laevis, which is potentially a good model to study the CPF and craniofacial defects in terms of evolutionary developmental medicine. In contrast to basal vertebrates, such as the urochordate Ciona, Xenopus' heart has an advanced morphology with several heart chambers and in‐ and outflow tracts. Concurrently, Xenopus is easy to rear in laboratory conditions. There are various genetic tools available to work with this species (e.g., TALENs, CRISPR/Cas9, ZFNs) and there are certain advantages for the study of embryology (e.g., external fertilization and large size of eggs) that favour this species over the mouse and chicken models.

Whole‐mount in situ hybridization of embryos revealed that during early stages Isl1 and Nkx2.5 are co‐expressed in cardiac progenitor cells localized near the cement gland. Isl1 was also present in the stomodeum region and other cell populations; e.g., cephalic placodes and their associated ganglia or cranial paraxial mesoderm. At stage 25 (Nieuwkoop and Faber), Nkx2.5 was expressed in the FHF, SHF, and anterior endoderm. Later, it nearly separated from the Isl1 expression and became restricted to the heart tube, derived from the FHF. Isl1 was mainly expressed in the pharyngeal arch mesoderm adjacent to the heart and in the dorsolateral heart domain. At late stages, Nkx2.5 could be detected throughout the myocardium, while Isl1 was present in the foregut and cephalic ganglia. In spite of minor differences, our results conform to early studies in X. laevis. The comparison with expression patterns in mouse and chicken shows that Xenopus is indeed a good organism to study the CPF derivatives, like the myocardium and head musculature. Therefore, Xenopus can be further extensively used for developmental, evolutionary, and medical studies of the normal and abnormal head and heart myogenesis.

Support or Funding Information

JMZ is supported by a Howard University College of Medicine pilot study award (BFPSAP: U100217).

This abstract is from the Experimental Biology 2018 Meeting. There is no full text article associated with this abstract published in The FASEB Journal.
Internal Thoracic Arteries Arising Distal to the Anterior Scalene Muscles at the Origin of the Axillary Arteries: Implications for Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting
Authors: Lynch Hannah L. , Lambert H Wayne , Zdilla Matthew J.
Published: June 2021

The internal thoracic (internal mammary) artery is particularly important with regard to coronary artery bypass grafting. Typically, the artery arises from the first part of the subclavian artery before the subclavian artery passes posterior to the anterior scalene muscle. This case report documents internal thoracic arteries arising from the proximal aspect of the axillary arteries, lateral to the anterior scalene muscles and the lateral margins of the first rib where the subclavian arteries change names to the axillary arteries. The variation is clinically significant with regard to coronary artery bypass grafting. Since the internal thoracic arteries arise beyond the anterior scalene muscles, potential entrapment of the subclavian artery, common in thoracic outlet syndrome, may decrease blood flow through the variant arteries. If these variant arteries were utilized in bypass grafting, the patient could experience angina due to entrapment of the subclavian arteries by the anterior scalene muscles.

Support or Funding Information

WV Research Challenge Fund [HEPC.dsr.17.06] and [HEPC.dsr.14.13]

This abstract is from the Experimental Biology 2018 Meeting. There is no full text article associated with this abstract published in The FASEB Journal.
Protective effect of camel milk on Carbon tetrachloride (CCl4) induced Reno‐toxicity in Rats
Authors: IHENTUGE CHURCHILL , OBIALOR AMBROSE , UGOCHUKWU CHIOMA , OKECHUKWU HOPE , EGEONU SOLOMON , IHENTUGE PHOEBE
Published: June 2021

The kidneys process the blood supplied to it via filtration, reabsorption, secretion and excretion leading to the formation of urine. It is constantly exposed to different drugs and products of metabolism which could be toxic and destructive to renal structures. This study investigated the protective effective of camel milk on carbon tetrachloride induced renotoxicity in wistar rat.

Twenty adult wistar rats weighing between 150g and 200g were used in the study to determine the protective effective of camel milk on carbon tetrachloride (CCl4) induced renotoxicity in rats. The rats were divided into 5 groups (A, B, C, D and E) of 4 animals each and were fed with rat feed and water for 30days. Control groups (A and B) were injected intraperitoneally (i/p) with 1ml/kgbw of paraffin oil on the 1st and 2nd days, and in addition group B was fed with camel milk for the remaining days. Groups C and D were injected i/p with CCl4 (1ml/kgbw) for 2 consecutive days and group D fed with camel milk for the remaining period. Group E were fed with camel milk and were injected i/p with CCl4 on the last two days

Results showed a 5.76% decrease in mean body weight of group C significant at p<0.05% while A and B; D and E showed increase in mean body weight of 7.69%, 12.60%, 4.40% and 9.21% respectively. The weight and relative weight of kidneys of Group C was significantly higher (p<0.05) compared with group A and other groups. The sera levels of creatine and urea were significantly raised (p< 0.05) in group C while control and other experimental groups were within normal range. Histologically, there were moderate inflammation, congestion of the glomerulus and tubular necrosis in group C. The renal structures of control, groups B and E appear normal while group D show minimal inflammation.

This shows that camel milk protects and ameliorates renal architecture and could serve as a nutritional supplement in renal diseases.

This abstract is from the Experimental Biology 2018 Meeting. There is no full text article associated with this abstract published in The FASEB Journal.
Vertebral Artery Variations in American‐Bred Cottontail Rabbits
Authors: Den Haese Jason P. , Kalota Alyse M. , Hechtel Laura J.
Published: June 2021

It is estimated that there are over 6.2 million American‐bred rabbits owned as domesticated pets in the United States. However, variation in the vasculature of domesticated rabbits is not well studied and could therefore lead to complications during surgeries. This study examined the variation in the origin of the vertebral artery. In rabbits, the vertebral artery (right and left) typically branch off of the subclavian artery (right and left respectively), travels superiorly through the neck with spinal processes branching off of it to supply the spinal cord. The bilateral vertebral arteries then continue to travel cranially, through the foramen magnum. Here, they join to become the basilar artery, which aids in supplying the brain with blood. Through dissection of commercially available preserved rabbits, a new variation was found in the left vertebral artery: an anastomosis between the left subclavian artery and the left common carotid artery. No variation was found in the right vertebral artery. These results will potentially help veterinarian surgeons perform cardiovascular and cerebral surgeries with less complications, thus increasing survival rates.

This abstract is from the Experimental Biology 2018 Meeting. There is no full text article associated with this abstract published in The FASEB Journal.
3D Modeling and Animation of the Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) of a Human Male with Implications for the Study of TMJ Dysfunction
Authors: Sonnier Breigh N. , Homberger Dominique G.
Published: June 2021

Temporomandibular joint dysfunction (TMD) affects approximately 60–70% of the U.S. population, but the precise mechanisms underlying the causes of TMD are not well understood. To contribute to a better understanding of the possible biomechanical causes of TMD, a 3D model that can be manipulated to simulate different positions and postures, which may adversely affect the TMJ, was developed. To create such a 3D model, donated x‐ray CT data of the head, neck, and shoulders of an adult male of unknown etiology was analyzed using the visualization software program Avizo 9®. The skull, mandible, and cervical vertebrae were then manually segmented (i.e., marked) as independent entities. The resulting segmented structural 3D model was transferred to the software animation program Maya 2017® and subjected to character rigging so that the skull, mandible, and neck could be individually moved into various positions. This animated dynamic 3D model allows the study of various positions and body postures and their effects on the TMJ (e.g., a forward head posture and its effects on the forces acting on the TMJ) without having to resort to clinical observations with their ethically dictated limitations.

Support or Funding Information

LSU Foundation support to Dominique G. Homberger

This abstract is from the Experimental Biology 2018 Meeting. There is no full text article associated with this abstract published in The FASEB Journal.
A Novel Approach to Dissection of the Pelvis and Perineum for Professional Students
Authors: Hunter Leah D. , Mosley Claudia F. , McHugh Kirk M.
Published: June 2021

INTRODUCTION

Understanding the gross anatomy of the pelvis and perineum has been a challenge for professional students for years. Dissection of this region is hampered by the complex spatial orientation of the pelvis and perineum, limited access for dissection, structural density and ambiguity as well as low anatomic efficiency (i.e. time dissecting versus number of structures identified). These limitations often result in programs minimizing dissection of the pelvis and perineum by utilizing prosected specimens as well as anatomic and computer models.

RESOURCES

At The Ohio State University, we have developed a novel approach to the cadaveric dissection of the pelvis and perineum that we implemented in the laboratory this past year with medical, dental and graduate students.

DESCRIPTION

Our approach involves the en bloc removal of the perineum from the cadaver followed by excision of the symphysis pubis. This approach closely mimics pelvic exenteration, a surgical salvage procedure used for recurrent pelvic cancers. It permits autonomous dissection of the perineal bloc while providing open access to all of the organs in the pelvis still intact. Following the examination and dissection of the midline pelvic organs, the pelvis is hemisected permitting removal of a single leg for continued dissection of the internal iliac vessels and pelvic nerves.

SIGNIFICANCE

We have developed and successfully piloted a novel approach to the dissection of the pelvis and perineum that appears to resolve many of the prior difficulties associated with this region. The majority of dissecting tables were able to successfully complete the new dissection approach on their first try, albeit with significant prelab preparation and GTA/faculty guidance in the lab. This approach appears to significantly improve the anatomic efficiency of pelvis and perineum dissections and provides professional students with a much better understanding of this complex region of human anatomy.

Support or Funding Information

(Supported by Department of Biomedical Education and Anatomy, The Ohio State University.)

This abstract is from the Experimental Biology 2018 Meeting. There is no full text article associated with this abstract published in The FASEB Journal.
The function of Nsdhl during vascular development in zebrafish
Authors: Liang Shuo‐Rong
Published: June 2021

Genetic conrol of vascular development and patterning in vertebrates is not fully understood. We used zebrafish as a model organism to identify transcription factors Islet2 (Isl2) and Nr2f1b required for the growth of intersegmental vessels (ISV) and caudal vein plexus (CVP). We further identify NAD(P)H steroid dehydrogenase‐like (Nsdhl) gene is positively regulated by Ist2 /Nr2f1b. Nsdhl is a dehydrogenase that participates in sterol production in cholesterol biosynthesis. Excess cellular cholesterol often leads to abnormal proliferation and migration. In addition, recent study showed cholesterol efflux related to angiogenesis control.

Here, we show Nsdhl is highly conserved in all species. Nsdhl mRNA is expressed in vessels, suggesting its roles in vascular development. Knockdown of Nsdhl expression by Morpholino (MO) disrupts the growth of ISV and CVP, suggesting the role of Nsdhl in controlling ISV and CVP growth. Consist with the defects in vascular development, we examined the expression of vascular markers flk1, mrc1, stabilin, flt4 and ephrinb2 and we found the remodeling the expression of vascular markers in nsdhlMO. To address whether the cell death contributes to the ISV and CVP defects in nsdhlMO, we performed AO staining and TUNEL assay. The data showed that vascular defects do not caused by cell death, but likely due to the impairment of proliferation and migration. We also revealed the relationship between Nsdhl and VEGF/BMP signals. Together, we showed that Nsdhl plays important role for vascular development in zebrafish.

This abstract is from the Experimental Biology 2018 Meeting. There is no full text article associated with this abstract published in The FASEB Journal.