bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Inducible reexpression of HEXIM1 activates physiological rather than pathological responses in the adult heart
Authors: Watanabe Michiko , Doughman Yong Qui , Desjardins Candida , Hu Yanduan , Wang Connie , Hoit Brian , Chandler Margaret , Yu Xin , Montano Monica 
Published: June 2021

The transcription factor Hexamethylene‐bis‐acetamide‐inducible protein 1 (HEXIM1) is a tumor suppressor and cyclin‐dependent kinase inhibitor that we and others have shown to be critical for cardiovascular development. To examine its function in the adult heart, we created and investigated a mouse line wherein HEXIM1 reexpression was induced in adult cardiomyocytes. These mouse hearts exhibited morphology, physiology, and gene expression resembling hearts that have undergone a physiological rather than a pathological response. We also discovered mechanistic aspects of HEXIM1 that may explain effects of HEXIM1 induction in adult hearts. HEXIM1 binds to and stabilizes Hypoxia Inducible Factor‐1 [alpha] that controls many genes involved in vasculogenesis and metabolism. This role of HEXIM1 may result in induction of angiogenesis essential for physiological hypertrophy and maintenance of cardiac function under stress. Thus, HEXIM1 plays a critical regulatory role in coordinating responses of the adult heart to stress and its reexpression in the adult may be useful in cardioprotection therapy.This project was supported by NIH R01 CA92440 & AHA 0855543D (MMM), ARRA NIH R01 HL091171 (MW), NIH R01s HL73315 & HL86935 (X.Y.)
Do Lectures Matter? Lecture Attendance in Online and Face to Face Histology Courses
Authors: Barbeau Michele L , Rogers Kem A 
Published: June 2021

We have developed an online histology course covering the same material as a Face to Face (F2F) course. Previously, we reported no significant differences among outcomes between the formats. Here we investigate differences in student attendance. The online course uses Wimba Classroom to facilitate lectures. Students can attend the lectures live, or view archived versions later and also access archives for additional review. Wimba classroom records each time a student enters the virtual classroom. F2F attendance was measured by passing attendance sheets though the class for each lecture. Data indicates that F2F attendance drops mid‐term and then recovers prior to testing. Similarly, online attendance also drops mid‐term; however, these students can view the archived lecture at a later time. Written exams for this course are multiple choice questions each based on the material covered in a specific lecture. There is a correlation (r2 = 0.211, p< 0.05) between attendance and exam grades for the F2F students. For the online students who can view the archives many times, there is also significant positive correlation between attendance and exam outcomes; however, this correlation becomes negative after two viewings per lecture. These results suggest that lecture attendance improves outcomes and that while repeated viewings of the lecture are beneficial, this benefit declines with more than two viewings.Grant Funding Source : SSHRC
Enhancing science literacy in tertiary education: a real‐world exercise in literature research, scientific writing, and self and peer assessment
Authors: Filgueira Luis , Pauk Barbara , Meyer Jan 
Published: June 2021

Science literacy, the ability to critically evaluate scientific outcomes and their presentation through self and peer assessment, is expected from scientists despite the fact that it is generally not taught. This project aimed to offer 75 undergraduate science students the opportunity to acquire and improve their skills in literature research, reading and writing of scientific papers, as well as self and peer review in simulations of real‐world processes of scientific publishing. This paper discusses the various assessment results, which were analyzed statistically, as well as students’ evaluation of their learning experience.Students had to write a literature review on a topic related to the course content including at least 5 original journal articles published over the previous 10 years in leading international journals. Students were asked to review the manuscripts of five peers and then give an assessment of their own paper. They could use the online program “Turnitin.com” to check their manuscript for plagiarism. This program was also used for peer assessment. The students received feedback on their paper from 5 peers as well as from the academic teacher.In summary, peer assessment was more severe than the teacher's or self assessment, but within a reasonable range. The students perceived the exercise as demanding, but also rewarding and as being a great learning experience.
The Downstate Video Atlas of Anatomy, a Project Powered by Dyad Pedagogy
Authors: Blumenberg Adam , Marquez Samuel 
Published: June 2021

The medical school curriculum reform movement requires an effective method of eliciting leadership, independent research and productivity from each student. Dyad pedagogy has been demonstrated to answer this call. Working only in groups of two, a student worked with SUNY Downstate faculty members to create an expansive video atlas of anatomy. Production was labor intensive, ultimately generating 37 videos, each profiling an anatomical region. The application of dyad pedagogy allowed for constant feedback and refinement of the videos, optimizing them as a learning resource for the student body. Activity logs indicated that 38.6% of physician assistant and 25.5% of medical students (n=158 and 102 respectively) watched the videos 5 or more times. Usage increased up to 657% of average in the days before an exam. The significant percentage of students who repeatedly returned to the resource, as well as the usage peaks before a test day impy active utilization of the videos as a study tool. Informal surveys as well as unsolicited reviews from the class indicated enthusiasm and appreciation for the videos, confirming the success of the project and of dyad pedagogy in fueling the endeavor.Grant Funding Source : SUNY Downstate College of Medicine
A practical way to understand anatomical planes and directions in animals using vegetables
Authors: Tamayo-Arango Lynda Jhailu 
Published: June 2021

In this work we use vegetables in representation of the animal body for teaching anatomical planes and directions in veterinary medicine. Banana represents the head and trunk, and runner bean represents the extremities, due to the difference in the anatomical planes and directions in these regions in animals. Students first determined in the banana the location of head and tail, and then they delimited with a marker pen the three main planes of the body (mean longitudinal, sagital, transversal and horizontal) and cut with a knife. After that, they marked the anatomical directions resulting of each plane, i.e. tranversal plane: cranial and caudal portions, horizontal plane: dorsal and ventral portions, and mean longitudinal plane: medial and lateral. They did the same with the runner bean, determining first the location of the extremity related to the trunk. In veterinary anatomy is also very much used the terms axial and abaxial in reference to the distal part of the extremities in animals with several digits (i.e. bovine, swine and carnivores). In horse are used for the proximal sesamoid bones. For the students to understand these concepts, they put together two runner beans and marked the corresponding directions. Finally, they had to draw everything they did. This method is a three‐dimensional reinforcement of concepts that most of the time are difficult to understand in a two‐dimensional way.Grant Funding Source: n/a
Passing the Torch: Medical Student Near‐Peer Teachers Enhance Learning in Histology
Authors: Ko Huaising Cindy , Bassan Eric , Shaw Phyllis A. , Mak Ki M. 
Published: June 2021

Near‐peer teaching is an integral part of the Histology course at Mount Sinai School of Medicine. To that end, 12 Histology teaching assistants (TAs) were selected from the second‐year students, based on their performance in the course and their interaction with fellow students and faculty. Among these, two were appointed as head TAs whose roles were to organize teaching assignments and serve as liaison between faculty and students. In total, TAs held eight 90‐minute reviews covering 2 to 3 topics that were taught that week, with emphasis on laboratory material. The sessions were conducted using PowerPoint images in a question‐and‐answer format to engage student participation. Images were then posted on the course website for students to review afterward. Prior to each of the 3 exams, TAs led mock practical sessions in which 28 images were shown and students were asked to identify specific structures and state their functions. At completion, answers were given with relevant discussion. An online survey revealed that 75% of students agreed or strongly agreed that the TAs were engaging teachers. Also, 70% of students stated that the reviews helped them prepare for the exam, while 80% said that the mock practical sessions enhanced their learning of the material.ConclusionAlongside the faculty, near‐peer teaching by medical student TAs contributes positively to student satisfaction and enhances learning in Histology.Grant Funding Source: AAA
How do block scheduling and integrated testing affect medical student performance?
Authors: Thompson Andrew R. , Braun Mark W. , OˈLoughlin Valerie Dean 
Published: June 2021

The selection process of medical school often favors students who can recall a large amount of information for a brief period of time. This trait may persist in the early years of medical education as most courses are taught and tested independently. However, the ability to synthesize material from different courses both promotes a deeper level of learning and better prepares students to practice medicine.This study examines how 2nd year medical students handled a transition to block course scheduling and integrated exams (pathology, pharmacology, and medicine at Indiana University School of Medicine). Specifically, comparison of similar pathology questions between the different exam formats was used to assess changes in student performance between the traditional and revised curricular years. Additionally, each pathology question was evaluated using Bloom's taxonomy to a) compare overall exam makeup, and b) determine if student performance differed based on taxonomic assignment.Pathology scores on the first block exam were slightly lower than the previous year's single subject exam. However, on subsequent exams block scheduling students performed better than their previous year counterparts, despite integrated exams being longer and arguably more difficult. We suggest that an integrated testing format discourages “cramming” and promotes a deeper level of learning.
A Newly Identified Protein Regulates Translation in Mammalian Mitochondria
Authors: CIMEN HUSEYIN , Koc Hasan , Koc Emine C. 
Published: June 2021

Mitochondria are responsible for providing 90% of the energy in eukaryotic organisms by oxidative phosphorylation (OXPHOS). Mitochondrially encoded components of OXPHOS complexes are all essential and synthesized by a specialized translation system containing 55S ribosomes in mitochondria. In the reevaluation of mitochondrial ribosomal proteins (MRPs) and ribosome‐interacting proteins, we identified Gadd45GIP1 as a bona fide component in purified 55S ribosomes. Here, we report Gadd45GIP1 association with the large subunit of mammalian mitochondrial ribosomes and its role in the regulation of mitochondrial protein synthesis. In siRNA knock‐down studies, reduced expression of Gadd45GIP1 decreased de novo synthesis of the 13 mitochondrially encoded proteins of OXPHOS complexes in vivo. This indicates that the Gadd45GIP1 is an essential member of the mitochondrial ribosome, and its specific role in protein synthesis is currently under investigation.Supported by NIH grant R01GM071034 (E.C.K.)
A Giardia Cathepsin‐B‐like Protease Cleaves Interleukin‐8 From Intestinal Epithelial Cells
Authors: Cotton James , Bhargava Amol , Ferraz Jose , Hollenberg Morley , Beck Paul , Buret Andre 
Published: June 2021

Interleukin‐8 (CXCL8) secretion from intestinal epithelial cells is an early event in acute intestinal inflammation. Infection with the non‐invasive, small intestinal protozoan parasite Giardia duodenalis rarely results in overt intestinal inflammation.ObjectiveTo determine if Giardia trophozoites modulate CXCL8 secretion from ex vivo human small intestinal biopsies or in vitro Caco‐2 monolayers administered interleukin (IL)‐1β or Salmonella typhimurium, and identify mechanisms involved.ResultsCo‐incubation of ex vivo human small intestinal biopsies or in vitro Caco‐2 monolayers with Giardia trophozoites significantly reduced supernatant levels of CXCL8 following stimulation with IL‐1β or S. typhimurium and involved parasite‐mediated cleavage of CXCL8. Giardia trophozoites secreted three cysteine proteases, one sensitive to the cathepsin‐B inhibitor Ca‐074Me. Inhibition of Giardia‐secreted cysteine proteases with a cysteine protease inhibitor (E‐64d) or Ca‐074Me prevented cleavage of CXCL8.ConclusionGiardia trophozoites secrete a cathepsin‐B‐like protease that cleaves CXCL8. Funding provided by NSERC, AIHS, and CCFC.
Effect of proinflammatory cytokines on mitochondrial function in 3T3‐L1 adipocytes
Authors: Kuzmicic Jovan Paolo , Hahn Wendy , Burrill Joel , Lavandero Sergio , Bernlohr David 
Published: June 2021

To assess the effects of proinflammatory cytokines on mitochondrial function 3T3‐L1 adipocytes were treated with TNFα, IL‐6 or IL‐1β (1 nM, 0–96 h) and evaluated for mitochondrial function as well as mRNA and protein expression. The treatment of 3T3‐L1 adipocytes with inflammatory cytokines induced mitochondrial dysfunction as evidenced by a significant reduction (p<0.05, n=5) in maximal respiratory capacity (uncoupled respiration), increased proton leak, decreased ATP synthesis‐driven respiration, respiratory control ratio and mitochondrial coupling efficiency. In addition, each of the cytokines reduced the NAD+/NADH ratio (p< 0.01, n=3). Each of the cytokines significantly reduced the mRNA expression of PGC1α and TNFα also decreased the mRNA levels of NRF1 and COXIV, suggesting impairment in mitochondrial biogenesis. TNFα significantly reduced (p<0.01, n=4) the level of the mitochondrial fusion protein OPA1 without affecting the mitochondrial fission proteins DRP1 or FIS1. These results indicate that inflammatory cytokines induce mitochondrial dysfunction and changes in mitochondrial biogenesis/dynamics pathways, possibly contributing to the development of insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes.Supported by NIH DK084669 to DAB. JK holds a PhD scholarship from CONICYT Chile and a Fellowship from PABMB/ASBMB Promoting Research Opportunities for Latin American Biochemists.
Adiponectin and leptin secretion are differentially modulated in subcutaneous and visceral adipose tissue by endoplasmic reticulum stress
Authors: Torre-Villalvazo Ivan , Bunt Ana E , Torres Nimbe , Tovar Armando R 
Published: June 2021

Obesity is associated with altered adipokine secretion but the underlying mechanisms responsible for this phenomenon remains unknown. Endoplasmic reticulum stress (ERS) is common alteration in several cell types during obesity.ObjectiveTo evaluate whether ERS alters adiponectin and leptin production in subcutaneus (SAT) and viceral (VAT) adipose tissue in mice and in cultured adipocytes.MethodsMice were fed chow diet supplemented with pioglitazone (120mg/kg) for 2 w, in order to stimulate adipokine production and injected with tunicamicyn (2μg/g body weight) for 8 or 24h before euthanasia. For in vitro analysis, primary SAT and VAT adipocytes were cultured with pioglitazone with or without tunicamicyn for 8 or 24h.ResultsATF6 and BiP mRNA increased in SAT and VAT of mice injected with tunicamicyn and in cultured adipocytes but at higher magnitude in VAT. Pioglitazone augmented perilipin, SREBP1 and SCD1 mRNA content as expected but interestingly, tunicamicyn reduced this induction. Adiponectin content in adipose tissue and serum was dramatically reduced in mice injected with tunicamicyn and leptin increased.ConclusionsTunicamicyn induces ERS in both adipose depots but at higher magnitude in VAT. ERS impairs the pioglitazone effect on adipose tissue gene expression. ERS reduces adiponectin secretion but increases leptin production in adipose tissue. This work is supported by CONACyT (84757).
A Comparison of Nitrophorin 3 Between Wild‐type and Native Forms
Authors: Childers Kenneth Craig 
Published: June 2021

Rhodnius prolixus, better known as the kissing bug, is a blood‐sucking insect that utilizes a nitric oxide‐carrying protein as a means to obtain its meal through vasodilation, slowing platelet aggregation and strong histamine binding. The bug stores this nitrophorin protein within its salivary glands at low pH and is activated once released into the victim's blood. At present, four nitrophorin proteins have been discovered and fully sequenced, having been labeled NP1‐NP4 in order of decreasing abundance. NP3 is the only one of the four proteins which has not yet been characterized by x‐ray crystallography. This study will focus specifically on NP3 by comparing its wild‐type and native forms. Thus far, both forms have been cloned and expressed in E. coli and purified with sonication, dialysis and column chromatography. Throughout this procedure, it has been found that, out of all four of the nitrophorin proteins, NP3 remains one of the more difficult to isolate. However, with the recent success in growths of the native and wild‐type forms, the lab remains hopeful that this breakthrough can lead to point mutations within the protein, as they have with the other three nitrophorins.Source of support:Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biophysics, University of Arizona, Tucson, 85726
Genetic influence on fatty acid composition of human breastmilk
Authors: Cheatham Carol L 
Published: June 2021

ObjectiveThe cognitive advantage conferred by breastfeeding may be dependent on maternal FADS2 genotype. In a Canadian sample (Xie & Innis, 2008), fatty acid content of human milk related to genotype at rs174575 on the FADS2 gene. This study was undertaken to explore this in a sample from the USA.MethodsBreastfeeding dyads were enrolled when infant was 3–4 months of age (n=200). Mothers collected a morning sample by emptying one entire breast, agitating, aliquoting, and transporting to the lab on ice. Samples were stored at −20 F until lipids were extracted and saponified. Fatty acids were trans‐methylated to methyl esters that were analyzed using capillary gas chromatography. DNA was extracted from saliva using a QIAcube robotic station (Qiagen), as per manufacturer's protocol. 20 ng DNA was used with validated primers from Applied Biosystems. The real time PCR assay was run on an Eppendorf thermal cycler.ResultsMaternal genotype is related to fatty acids: homozygous recessive (GG) had lower fatty acid levels than wildtype (CC). Levels of arachidonic acid, docosapentaenoic acid (n‐3), and docosahexaenoic acid reached statistical significance (p<0.05).ConclusionThe desaturases used in biosynthesis of fatty acids from their precursors may be in limited supply in certain genotypes. These mothers should insure exogenous fatty acids are being consumed.Support: Nutrition Obesity Research Center, UNC
Improvement of bioactivity of alpha‐lactalbumin through Maillard reaction with dextran
Authors: Hong Seung-Taek , Ha Young-Min , Nam Mi-Hyun , Lee Kwang-Won 
Published: June 2021

α‐Lactalbumin (α‐LA) is an important protein present in the milk of many mammalian species. It is a Ca2+‐binding protein with 4 disulfide bonds. α‐LA and its hydrolysate has been reported to have many physiological functions, such as antimicrobial activity, antiulcer activity and antihypertensive action. However, it was also reported that α‐LA had allergy‐inducing agent. In this study, we tried to synthesize an improved α‐LA through Maillard reaction with polysaccharide dextran (D) which is also well known for its antithrombotic effect. Maillard reaction occurs routinely in cooking and its products are considered safe. α‐LA and D were dry‐heated at 60 °C and 79% relative humidity for 1 week. SDS‐PAGE analysis and absorbance measurements were used to verify the occurrence of the conjugate formation. Antioxidant assays are performed, and immune‐modulating effects are estimated by nitric oxide (NO) production in RAW 264.7 macrophages stimulated with lipopolysaccharide (LPS). Data showed that α‐LA was successfully conjugated with dextran. D+LA conjugate have shown antioxidant property in a glycation reaction‐time‐dependant manner. Moreover, D+LA significantly inhibited the overproduction of NO compared with the only α‐LA treated sample. Therefore, our study suggest that glycation of α‐LA with dextran (D+LA) might be a useful method for improving some physiological functions of α‐LA.Grant Funding Source: Korea Food Research Institute, Korea
Effects of a Low‐Fat Diet on the Anti‐inflammatory Interleukin Levels of Older Adults
Authors: Wall-Bassett Elizabeth D , Maddy LaDonna , Tharrington India , Macesich Jennifer , Harper Bradley M , Heidal Kimberly , Pofahl Walter E , Gordon Scott E 
Published: June 2021

Immunosenescence involves changes on the cellular and molecular levels of the immune system, and is associated with aging. Higher incidence of autoimmune disorders and other inflammatory conditions, as well as increased rates of infectious disease, cancer, and mortality have been linked to this condition. Proinflammatory interleukins (IL‐6) have been shown to increase with age, while anti‐inflammatory interleukins (IL‐4, IL‐10) decrease. Additionally, a low‐fat diet has been correlated with lower IL‐6 levels in older adults. The purpose of this study was to examine the effects of fat intake on IL‐4 and IL‐10 levels in older adults.IL‐4 and IL‐10 concentrations were analyzed from venous samples of 10 older adults (46–85 yrs) and compared to venous samples of 9 younger adults (18–45 yrs). Five older adults were counseled to consume a high‐carbohydrate, low‐fat diet for three days prior. All other subjects were instructed to consume their normal diet. Contrary to our hypothesis, a low‐fat diet did not result in increased levels of IL‐4 or IL‐10 levels, and no reversal of immunosenescence. Further investigation is warranted to investigate contributing factors to changes in immunosenescence. This research was supported by the East Carolina University Division of Research and Graduate Studies.