bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Stretched Fibroblasts Regulate Acetylcholine Receptor (AChR) Expression and Clustering on Skeletal Muscle
Authors: Hicks Michael R , Cao Thanh , Standley Paul 
Published: June 2021

Repetitive tasks reduce fine motor control and manipulative therapy improves physical performance. Stretched muscle fascia may influence the contraction of the underlying skeletal muscle by secreting cytokines that regulate AChRs. A co‐culture was setup by seeding fibroblasts on deformable membranes and C2C12 myoblasts on non‐deformable coverslips for 24hrs before transferring the C2C12s two mm above the fibroblasts, within diffusible range of secreted cytokines. Fibroblasts were then subjected to repetitive stretch and/or manipulative therapy. Agrin‐induced myotubes in 2% horse serum and non‐strained C2C12s in co‐culture served as positive and negative controls. After 96hrs, C2C12s were analyzed for AChR expression by Western Blot (N=7) and for clustering by fluorescent imaging (130 images/treatment). Data were analyzed via ANOVA, p<0.05. AChR clusters numbered 196±21 for agrin and 65±16 for non‐strain co‐culture. Manipulative therapy did not affect cluster number 56±12, but repetitive stretch attenuated clusters 38±6. Inversely we found repetitive strain increased AChR expression by >;2‐fold vs. non‐strain, while manipulative therapy did not increase expression. Stretched fibroblasts differentially regulate AChRs on skeletal muscle cells through paracrine mediators. Opposite AChR expression and clustering results suggests that unique extrinsic factors regulate each outcome.AOA
A roadmap for survey design in anatomy education research
Authors: Metzger Keith A , MacKay Robert 
Published: June 2021

The transition towards evidence‐based decisions regarding educational interventions, in conjunction with the increase in venues for publication of anatomical educational research, have led to an overall increase in the amount of research related to anatomy education. Many of these studies include the use of surveys, and although the quality of survey‐based educational research is largely dependent upon the reliability and validity of the measurement instruments that are used, few of these studies describe the process used to construct and validate their surveys.This study aims to 1) briefly review the frequency of survey use in anatomical education research and 2) provide a framework for anatomy education researchers in the design and validation of survey instruments. A survey constructed to assess the impact of an integrated course in human structure on contextual anatomical knowledge is used as an example of this design process. Description of the steps of survey development are outlined, including literature review and synthesis, development of survey items, validation by subject matter experts, cognitive interviewing, and pilot‐testing. Common pitfalls in item construction (e.g., confusing item wording, inappropriate use of anchors) are also discussed.Grant Funding Source: Lippincott Williams Wilkins/AAA Education Research Scholarship
Guided, self‐directed learning: Building an anatomy learning module for the iPad
Authors: Haugsdal Michael Larson , Pizzimenti Marc A 
Published: June 2021

We investigated the potential of iBooks Author for creating a guided, self‐directed learning module (SDLM) on the iPad. Our objective was to qualitatively assess the capacity and ease to yield an interactive, multi‐media module that introduced foundational anatomical concepts. Guided, SDLMs provide learners with an opportunity to practice autonomy and personal learning styles. Modules focus on learner‐centered approaches that provide direction for students to develop topical knowledge and life‐long learning skills. Essential steps to SDLM creation include: identification of knowledge needs, formulation of learning goals, resource selection, application of learning strategies, and evaluation of outcomes. SDLMs that follow this step‐wise process are effective in establishing foundational knowledge, which facilitates further discussion of related, but advanced concepts in lectures or small groups.While we did succeed in building a guided SDLM with a unique degree of interactive features, development was intensive and required advanced technological skills and use of adjunct software. Furthermore, resources and software capabilities placed limits on the implementation of desired guiding strategies.
Three‐dimensional reconstructions of human embryos: Morphogenesis and hepatic vascularization.
Authors: LHUAIRE Martin , SCHARBARG Emeric , MICARD Émilien , CENDRE Romain , DELMAS Vincent , DUPARC Fabrice , MERCIER Philippe , FELBLINGER Jacques , BRAUN Marc , AVISSE Claude , LABROUSSE Marc 
Published: June 2021

OBJECTIVESThe purpose of this study was to describe the morphogenesis of hepatic gland and its vascularization in 4 human embryos using three‐dimensional reconstructions from histological sections, and to compare our results with literature.MATERIALS AND METHODSWe investigated four embryos belonging to three prestigious historical French collections of human embryos serially sectioned: 7 mm (Carnegie Stage 14), 15 mm (CS 18), 22.5 mm (CS 21) and 27 mm (CS 23) respectively.Staining included either Masson's trichrome or standard HES. Scanning was performed using an Epson V750 PRO ®, (resolution 3200 dpi). Registration of image stacks and export in DICOM files were performed using original software developed by IADI Laboratory (INSERM U947, NANCY). The images obtained were exploited with ORS ® Visual.RESULTSFrom the 7mm embryo to 27mm, the hepatic gland was very large and filled almost the entire abdominal cavity. The hepatic vascularization was well visualized and individualized. The portal vein and hepatic veins were distinct from the 15mm embryo to subsequent stages.CONCLUSIONThis method of three‐dimensional reconstructions of hepatic morphogenesis brings a new perspective to the study of human embryology.Grant Funding Source: AAA
Benefits of fluorescent detection for quantitative Western blotting.
Authors: Grimsby Susanne 
Published: June 2021

Western blotting is a well‐established and widely used technique to confirm the identity and presence of proteins from a variety of sources. The development of highly sensitive detection reagents together with advanced imaging techniques has made Western blotting a potential tool for quantitative protein analysis. A prerequisite for obtaining quantitative Western blotting data is that the signal response is proportional to the amount of protein. Fluorescent Western blotting detection is a direct detection method where the secondary antibody is conjugated to a fluorophore. The obtained fluorescent signals are stable and directly proportional to the protein amount. Fluorescent detection systems are typically characterized by their high sensitivity and broad linear dynamic range, and are as such well adapted to quantitative Western blotting. Moreover, fluorescence detection enables simultaneous detection of more than one protein on the same blot (multiplexing), even when the proteins have similar size, by utilizing secondary antibodies conjugated to fluorophores that are spectrally differentiated from each other. This makes fluorescent Western blotting a useful tool for accurate monitoring of changes in protein abundance and for detection of posttranslational modifications.Here we demonstrate the benefits of fluorescent detection in quantitative Western blotting using Amersham™ ECL Plex™ and Image Quant™ LAS 4010 CCD camera. Proteins are identified and expression levels determined using a multiplexed Western blotting approach..
The effect of transplanted adipose‐tissue derived stem cells (ADSCs) on the aging rat with erectile dysfunction
Authors: Yang Chun , Dai Jingxing , Yuan Lin 
Published: June 2021

ObjectivesTo determine the protective effects and to identify the mechanism of action of transplanted ADSCs in D‐galactose ‐induced aging ED rat model.MethodsThirty male SD rats were randomly divided into normal control group (A), model group(B) and cell treatment group (C) . The aging model was induced by s.c. injection D‐galactose for 8 weeks. Each rat in group C underwent caudal vein injection of ADSCs. Two weeks later, harvest tissue and serum after the mating experiment for histology.ResultsD‐gal successfully produced aging rat model. ADSCs treatments improved the behavior of aging rats in mating experiment in group C, and resulted in significant recovery of erectile function. Also increased the level of SOD and testosterone, decreased the content of MDA in the serum. In addition, ADSCs decreased leydig cell degeneration and lowered AI in the rat testis in group C. Testosterone with significantly higher expression compared with C animals. BrdU‐labeled ADSCs were observed within corporal tissue of the treatment group. TUNEL staining was lower and 3β‐HSD expression were significantly higher within corporal tissue of B versus C animals. AI was significantly different between groups.ConclusionsAutologous ADSCs injected into the caudal vein appear to survive and improve erectile function. The transplanted ADSCs have an anti‐aging activity in D‐gal induced ageing rats. Supported by National 973 Program (2007CB512705) and Guangdong province high and new technology industrialization project ‐ industrial research (2011 b010500004)
Anti‐cancer activity of protocatechualdehyde through HDAC2‐mediated downregulation of cyclin D1 in human colorectal cancer cells
Authors: Jeong Jin Boo , Lee Seong‐Ho 
Published: June 2021

There are a few studies that protocatechualdehyde (PCA), a naturally occurring polyphenol in barley, induces cell growth arrest in breast and leukemia cancer cells. However, the underlying mechanisms are still poorly understood. Thus, we performed in vitro study to investigate whether PCA affects cell proliferation and apoptosis in human colorectal cancer cells and define potential mechanisms by which PCA induces growth arrest and apoptosis in human colorectal cancer cell lines, HCT116 and SW480. Exposure of PCA to HCT116 and SW480 cells suppressed cell growth and induced apoptosis in a dose‐dependent manner. PCA decreased cyclin D1 expression in protein and mRNA level and suppressed luciferase activity of cyclin D1 promoter, indicating a transcriptional downregulation of cyclin D1 gene by PCA. We also observed that PCA decreased enzyme activity of HDAC and reduced expression of HDAC2, but not HDAC1. These findings suggest that PCA results in cell growth inhibition and apoptosis via HDAC2‐mediated cyclin D1 suppression.This work was supported by start‐up funds (University of Maryland) to S‐H Lee.
Propofol post‐conditioning confers ischemic cardioprotection via HO‐1/STAT3 signaling: role of peroxynitrite
Authors: Mao Xiaowen , Li Haobo , Irwin Michael , Wong Gordon , Xia Zhengyuan 
Published: June 2021

Propofol, an aesthetic with antioxidant and peroxynitrite (ONOO−) scavenging property, when given during reperfusion attenuates myocardial ischemia/reperfusion (MI/R) injury. Heme oxygenase‐1 (HO‐1) and STAT3 are key proteins in postconditioning (PC) cardioprotection. We explored if Propofol PC (PPC) confers cardioprotection by scavenging ONOO− and activating the HO‐1/STAT3 pathway. Rats were subjected to 30 min coronary artery occlusion and 120 min reperfusion in vivo. Rats (n=7/group) were respectively treated with Propofol (2mg/kg), IPC, ONOO− generator SIN‐1(1.5 mg/kg), ONOO− scavenger FeTPPS (10 mg/kg) during MI/R. Also, primarily cultured cardiomyocytes were subjected to hypoxia/re‐oxygenation in the absence or presence of SIN‐1 or FeTPPS. PPC conferred similar cardioprotection to IPC in reducing postischemic myocardial infarction compared to control. FeTPPS enhanced PPC cardioprotection while SIN‐1 abolished PPC cardioprotection. HO‐1 and p‐STAT3 protein expression was increased in PPC group compared to control and it was associated with decreased ONOO− production and increased antioxidant capacity. PPC also attenuated post‐hypoxic lactate dehydrogenase in vitro. However, HO‐1/STAT3 gene knockdown abolished protective effect of PPC. In conclusion, PPC confers cardioprotection by scavenging ONOO− and activating the HO‐1/STAT3 pathway.Supported by RGC/GRF grant 782910M
Effects of Reduced Physical Activity on Intracellular Nitric Oxide in Circulating Angiogenic Cells
Authors: Guhanarayan Gayatri , Jablonski Julianne , Witkowski Sarah 
Published: June 2021

Physical inactivity, a risk factor for cardiovascular disease, promotes changes in the endothelium that may be influenced by circulating angiogenic cells (CACs). CACs have the capacity to replace and repair damaged vascular endothelium. Intracellular nitric oxide (NOi) is essential for CAC migration, motility, and proliferation and is therefore a key determinant of CAC health. The objective was to determine whether CAC number and NOi levels changed in response to ten‐days of reduced physical activity (rPA). Lipid profile, weight, and blood pressure (BP) were quantified before and after rPA. rPA was confirmed with accelerometry and caloric intake was reduced to match the reduced energy expenditure during rPA. CACs (CFU‐Hill, CD34+) were isolated from PBMCs prior to and following rPA. CD34+ cells were isolated via magnetic separation and quantified with a hemocytometer. CFU‐Hill were cultured and quantified via colony‐forming assay. NOi was determined using DAF‐FM diacetate. There were no significant changes in lipid profile, weight, or BP with rPA. CFU‐Hill colonies decreased by 44.7% and CD34+ cells increased by 34.8% (p=0.095, p=0.45, respectively). CFU‐Hill NOi was significantly decreased by 52.7% (p=0.023) and CD34+ cells had reduced NOi by 24% (p=0.37). The effect of rPA on CAC NOi is specific to the CAC population.UMass, Amherst Faculty Research Grant and CHC Research Grant
Stimulation of ANP secretion by Angiotensin‐(1–9) via Angiotensin Type 2 Receptor
Authors: Cha Seung Ah , Park Byung Mun , Oh Young‐Bin , Gao Shan , Kim Suhn Hee 
Published: June 2021

Renin‐angiotensin system (RAS) plays an essential role in cardiovascular homeostasis. The peptide hormone angiotensin II (Ang II), generated by angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE), mainly regulates cardiovascular system via its receptors. More recently, we have reported that Ang‐(1–7) stimulates ANP secretion via Mas receptor. However, Ang‐(1–9), converted from Ang I by ACE 2, is still unknown. The aim of the present study is to determine whether Ang‐(1–9) stimulates ANP secretion using isolated perfused beating atria and to find out its signaling pathway. Ang‐(1–9) augmented ANP secretion and concentration in a dose‐dependent manner. Ang‐(1–9)‐induced ANP secretion (about 60% increase by 3 uM) was attenuated by the pretreatment with Ang II type 2 receptor (AT2R) antagonist but not by AT1R or Mas receptor antagonist. In addition, pretreatment with inhibitors of phosphatidylinositol 3 kinase(PI3K), protein kinase B (Akt), endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) or guanylyl cyclase (GC), blocked the attenuation of ANP secretion by Ang‐(1–9). However, Ang‐(1–9) did not influence atrial contractility and ECF translocation. These results suggest that Ang‐(1–9) stimulates ANP secretion via AT2R, PI3K, Akt, eNOs, GC pathway. We try to do further study to find out the signaling mechanism involved these responses.Supported by the National Research Foundation (2012–0009322 )
Different neurotransmitters are included the exercise fatigue in different humidity and heat environments
Authors: Zhao Jiexiu , Lai Lili , Cheung Stephen S. , Cui Shuqiang , An Nan , Feng Wenping , Lorenzo Santiago , Lianshi Feng 
Published: June 2021

This study examined whether different neurotransmitters are presented at exercise fatigue in different temperature and relative humidity (RH) environments in athletes. Eight trained male athletes performed exercise in five different environmental conditions: 21°C/20% RH (Normal); 33°C/20 % RH (Hot 20%), 33°C/40% RH (Hot 40%), 33°C/60% RH (Hot 60%), and 33°C/80% RH (Hot 80%). Exercise group performed VO2max test in five conditions. Blood samples were taken pre‐ and post‐exercise and analyzed for noradrenaline (NA), adrenaline (Ad), dopamine (DA), serontonin (5‐HT), 5‐hydroxyindoleacetic acid (5‐HIAA), prolactin (PRL). Compare to Normal condition, Hot 20%, Hot 40% and Hot 80% have lower VO2max (P < 0.05). A comparison between the means indicated that in Hot 20%, Hot 40%, Hot 60% and Hot 80% conditions the RPEmax was higher than the Normal condition (P < 0.01 or P < 0.05). There was a significant effect for time in NE (P < 0.0001), PRL (P < 0.0001), 5‐HT (P = 0.002), 5‐HIAA (P = 0.029), DA (P = 0.016) during exercise in different conditions. However, Ad did not show any significant effect between pre and post exercise (P >; 0.05). In different humidity and heat environments, exercise fatigue is determined by the collaboration of the different neurotransmitter systems, with the most important role possibly being for the NE, 5‐HT and DA.This work was supported by Grants from Ministry of Science and Technology of the People's Republic of China (2010–05).
GSK3Beta and LEF1 in regenerating young skeletal muscle following downhill running
Authors: Arthur Susan Tsivitse , Amin Hiral , Vachris Judy , Hamilton Alicia , Howden Reuben , Steuerwald Nury 
Published: June 2021

The role of Wnt signaling during skeletal muscle repair has been studied using artificial models of muscle injury. Downhill running (DHR) is a physiological muscle injury model that involves a systems approach and is ideal when investigating sources of muscle repair.PurposeThe objective of this study was to determine if DHR affects Wnt signaling.MethodsC57BL/J6 male mice (3 mo) were exposed to either DHR or normal cage activity. The gastrocnemius was excised at 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, or 6 days post‐DHR. Gene (qRT‐PCR) and protein (western blot) expression of Wnt signaling components and GSK3□ (total and active) were measured.ResultsMuscle injury increased from baseline 0.4% to 1.4% at 3D, and 5D, and to 2.2% at 6D post‐DHR. M‐Cadherin protein increased from baseline (20.1%) to 54.7% at 3D through 5D (67.2%) post‐DHR. Total GSK3β protein decreased from baseline to 2D (3 fold), 3D (6 fold), 4D (3 fold) and 6D (3 fold) post‐DHR. GSK3βpY216 protein decreased from baseline to 2D (2.2 fold), 3D (3.7 fold), 4D (1.8 fold) and 6D (2.2 fold) post‐DHR. LEF1 protein increased from baseline to 5D and 6D (5 fold) post‐DHR.ConclusionsIn this study, DHR induced Wnt signaling activation. This physiological model provides insight into the complex role of Wnt signaling in skeletal muscle regeneration, which could be clinically important in treating skeletal muscle dysfunctions.
Comparison of rectangular and sine waveforms on electrical stimulation to atrophy of rat soleus muscle
Authors: Tanaka Minoru , Tanaka Masayuki , Kanazashi Miho , Kondo Hiroyo , Murakami Shinichiro , Fujita Naoto , Fujino Hidemi 
Published: June 2021

PURPOSEWe focused on the difference between rectangular and sine waves, investigated the effect of electrical stimulation on muscle atrophy.METHODSThe rats were randomly divided into hindlimb unloading (HU), hindlimb unloading plus electrical stimulation with rectangular waves (HU+RS), hindlimb unloading plus electrical stimulation with sine waves (HU+SS), and weightmatched control (Cont) groups. In the HU+RS and HU+SS groups, the stimulation was percutaneously provided to calf muscles. After 14 days, the soleus muscle located in deep layer of calf was removed.RESULTSThe value of muscle fiber cross‐sectional area was significantly less in the HU group than in the Cont group. Although there were no significant differences between the HU and HU+RS groups, the value in the HU+SS group was significantly larger than that in the HU and HU+RS groups. The expression level of ubiquitinated proteins was significantly higher in the HU group than in the Cont group, whereas the expression level was significantly less in the HU+SS group than in the HU and HU+RS groups.CONCLUSIONThe effect of electrical stimulation on muscle atrophy was depended on the waveform, and sine wave was effective in deep muscle. Supported by Grants‐in‐Aid for Science Research from the Japanese Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology.
Distribution of Electrical Activation to Parasternal Intercostal Muscles during High Frequency Spinal Cord Stimulation (HF‐SCS)
Authors: DiMarco Anthony F. , Kowalski Krzysztof E. 
Published: June 2021

ObjectiveHF‐SCS is a novel technique of inspiratory muscle activation involving stimulation of spinal cord pathways. The purpose of the present study was to compare the spatial distribution of motor drive to the parasternal intercostal (PS) muscles during spontaneous breathing with that occurring during HF‐SCS.MethodsIn 6 anesthetized dogs, HF‐SCS was applied at the T2 spinal level. Fine wire recording electrodes were used to assess single motor unit (SMU) pattern of activation in the medial portions of the 2nd (PS‐2M) and 4th (PS‐4M) and lateral portion of the 2nd (PS‐2L) interspaces during spontaneous breathing and HF‐SCS following C1 spinal section.ResultsDuring HF‐SCS mean peak SMU firing frequency was highest in the PS‐2M (13.3±0.4Hz) and significantly lower in the PS‐2L (8.8±0.2Hz) and PS‐4M (11.4±0.3Hz) (p<0.05 for each comparison). Similar rostrocaudal and dorsoventral gradients of activity were observed during spontaneous breathing prior to C1 section.ConclusionThis study demonstrates that: a) the topographic pattern of electrical activation of the parasternal intercostal muscles during HF‐SCS is similar to that occurring during spontaneous breathing and b) differential descending synaptic input from supraspinal centers is not a required component of the differential spatial distribution of parasternal intercostal activation.Support: NIH‐NINDS (R01NS064157)
Learning of Human Anatomy: Man versus Machine
Authors: Ang Eng Tat , Yip George , Lim Erle , Sugand Kapil 
Published: June 2021

ObjectivesThe primary focus of the project is to investigate if learning human anatomy is achieved best using 1) Cadaveric prosections, or 2) Multimedia interactive programs.Materials and MethodsA total of 62 first year medical (M1) and 15 first year Life science students (LSM) were recruited for this study. All students learnt anatomy from cadaveric prosections weekly but were also given access to web‐based programs ad libitum. The approaches were not mutually exclusive so as not to disadvantage either group. A questionnaire was distributed to collate their opinions of the pedagogies at the end of the academic year.ResultsThere were different learning habits between the 2 cohorts of students. M1 students reported favorable results with the cadaveric prosections approach compared to the multimedia with the exception of 3D appreciation (p < 0.05). LSM students reported that they appreciated learning with the multimedia program more than cadaveric prosections. To understand physiology, these students voted in favor of multimedia (73%) versus cadaveric prosections (69%)(p < 0.05). However, when it came to organs and tissue recognition, they voted in favor of cadaveric prosections (94%) versus multimedia (75%)(p < 0.05).ConclusionStudent perception on optimal modality for learning gross human anatomy depends on the structure of expected summative assessments. Overall, cadaveric pedagogy was preferred for organ and tissue recognition whereas multimedia programs and interactive animations were favored in appreciating physiology. There will be more revelation with further research.