bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
The pyramidal lobe: Connecting a case study with lymphatic system topics in gross anatomical education
Authors: Cassidy Keely 
Published: June 2021

The pyramidal lobe is a variably present structure extending superiorly from the midline of the thyroid gland. A remnant of the thyroglossal duct, the pyramidal lobe may harbor precricoid (also known as Delphian) lymph nodes, which receive lymphatic drainage predominantly from the larynx, pyriform sinus, and thyroid gland. The grossly visible presence of precricoid lymph nodes can serve as an indication of metastasis of head and neck cancers. A sixty‐one year old male donor present in a human anatomy course displayed a shockingly pronounced pyramidal lobe, measuring nine centimeters in length. This individual also displayed several small swellings in the center of the pyramidal lobe where the precricoid lymph nodes frequently rest. This donor's cause of death was metastatic salivary gland carcinoma, and therefore involvement of the precricoid lymph nodes is an intriguing possibility. This case highlights the importance of the lymphatic system in gross anatomical education. Unfortunately, the lymphatic system may not be examined extensively in gross anatomy laboratory settings in part due to reduction in course hours and this system's relative inconspicuousness and fragility in dissection. However, this case study brings to light the clinical importance of seemingly insignificant segments of the lymphatic system as well as the necessity of comprehensive gross anatomical education on this topic.Grant Funding Source: none
Development of a virtual 3D renal corpuscle for educational environments
Authors: Roth Jeremy , Wilson Timothy , Sandig Martin 
Published: June 2021

Histology is a challenging educational discipline. It requires studying 2‐dimensional (2D) microscopic sections of tissue and inferring three‐dimensional (3D) organization. Gross anatomical education has benefitted from the burgeoning use of 3D models and images, however, 3D digital models of histological structures have not been developed for educational purposes. To overcome these limitations we have developed a 3D histological model of a renal corpuscle (RC) based on serial histological sections for e‐learning environments. Sprague Dawley rat kidneys were fixed, dehydrated, and embedded in epoxy resin (Embed‐812). Ribbons of serial semi‐thin sections (1μm thick) were obtained using a diamond knife and ultramicrotome. The sections containing the RC (n=179) were digitized and the images were aligned with the 3D visualization software, Amira 5.2, for 3D model development. Key structures of the RC and surrounding tissue were digitally reconstructed via manual segmentation. The resulting digital model allows for the generation of RC images in any plane with resolutions comparable to that of the original images. Users may view digitally generated histological sections in the context of the 3D renal corpuscle, enabling user interactivity and visualization in a variety of 2D or 3D orientations. Future plans for the model include developing an e‐learning module and subjecting it to usability tests.Grant Funding Source: Instructional Innovation and Development Fund (IIDF)
Interactive Educational Touch Screen Panels In Anatomy Laboratuary Training
Authors: Yazar Fatih , Develi Sedat , Yalcin Bulent 
Published: June 2021

PurposeToday virtual computer‐aided programs have been widely used in methods of diagnosis and treatment. Providing new training materials to educational environment and using newly developed computer‐assisted medical applications have become a necessity.MethodsIn anatomy dissection laboratory for each small workgroups; mobile modules which have a high tech computer and 47′ touch screen with battery support established. Screen can be easily moved from vertical to horizontal or up and down. Many anatomic programs and images loaded to this system and online and wirelesss access to web sites and programs has been provided.ResultsIn anatomy training, interactive educational applications, virtual cadavers, animations, videos and other visual materials have been used effectively by students and lecturers and will make learning easier and more attractive.ConclusionThe touch screen virtual education panels, will facilitate the learning of students. Besides being a educational material in the dissection hall for students and lecturers, these panels will make easy to learn and understand anatomic structures by presenting virtual cadavers, animations, radiological images, atlases at the same time also will provide easy adaptation for recently developed medical products.
Teaching secular trends of human anatomy in a novel medical school module
Authors: Rühli Frank , Saniotis Arthur , Henneberg Maciej 
Published: June 2021

Human anatomical structures show a wide range of variability. Also, secular trends of human anatomy (and pathology) have been frequently reported and are of foremost interest (e.g. for surgeons). However, the variability of human morphology is often neglected in traditional medical curricula. Recently, we presented our novel full semester medical school course on Evolutionary Medicine at the University of Adelaide. This elective course addressed the degree and impact of such secular trends. Evolutionary Medicine which addressees specifically the ongoing interactions of humans and the environment such as pathogens and climate, is a field of research and teaching of growing interest. Based on our own original data of recent temporal changes in human body structures – e.g. the prevalence of additional arteries or of spina bifida occulta ‐ such topics were addressed both in a classical lecture format, as well as, part of interactive seminars run by students. Students evaluated this course highly (median response 6 out of possible 7). Thus it is planned to also teach this course at other Medical Schools. Teaching secular trends of human anatomy is not only an important part of the novel field of Evolutionary Medicine but of upmost importance for the understanding of the human body for both, medical students and clinicians.Grant Funding Source: N/A
The integration of anatomy and radiology through interactive online modules
Authors: Krebs Claudia , Fejtek Monika , Hu Jeff , Kazem May , Lam Adriel , Liang Teresa , Zhang Tina , Hayward Sean , Nicolaou Savvas 
Published: June 2021

Medical undergraduate programs require anatomy to be taught in a clinically relevant context. One natural fit for anatomy teaching is to integrate it with radiology. For this purpose anatomists and radiologists at UBC developed an integrated modular course that is tightly correlated with the anatomy curriculum, incorporating applicable anatomical structures with clinical radiology. We have created interactive modules and quizzes that correlate radiological anatomy to the relevant gross anatomy, and provide basic clinical applications. The regions covered include: spine, shoulder and elbow, thorax, abdomen, pelvis and head. Students are encouraged to participate interactively with mix and match, fill in the blank, and labeling activities. Feedback from the students allows faculty to assess which areas of the current integration process are less effectual and demonstrate avenues for potential improvement to the curriculum. Currently this project is focused on the first year of the UBC curriculum, but the format lends itself to expansion across all four years as well as continuing integration through the postgraduate years. Future anatomy teaching will likely move away from dedicated blocks of time and towards an approach integrated with clinical disciplines. Integration with the radiology program demonstrates the effectiveness of comprehensive anatomy teaching as it relates to a clinical discipline.Grant Funding Source: N/A
Developmental horizons in the 2–4 month old infant aerodigestive tract
Authors: Micham Brittni Mae , Laitman Jeffrey T. 
Published: June 2021

The human aerodigestive tract (ADT) is the crossroads of breathing, swallowing, olfaction, pressure control, aeration and vocal abilities. While coordination is essential for normal function, little is known regarding developmental changes or horizons during infancy. Early infancy is a period of high incidence of ADT diseases and symptoms. Detailed data on normal age‐range development is essential for charting crucial periods for focus in prevention and treatment. Stage 1 of this study compiled a multi‐field mega‐database in order to highlight “peak incidence” timings of change. Results indicate changes in many different areas of investigation involving gross ADT anatomy, vocal fold histology, laryngeal chemoreflexes, autonomic control of heart rate and blood pressure, vision accommodation, formant frequency acoustics, audio pattern recognition, hearing, limb control and clinical reportage of SIDS all meet at a nexus of 2 to 4 post‐natal months. This suggests a critical period identifying both change in the region and co‐temporaneous occurrence of diseases and clinicopathologies. Establishing ADT developmental horizons in infants will aid in prevention and treatment during this critical period.Grant Funding Source: Mount Sinai Summer Research Fellowship
Syntaxin 16 is required for epithelial morphogenesis and single lumen formation
Authors: Jung Jae‐Joon , Inamdar Shivangi M. , Tiwari Ajit , Ye Ding , Lin Fang , Choudhury Amit 
Published: June 2021

Formation and maintenance of cell‐cell junctions during developmental, physiological, and pathological conditions requires targeting and trafficking of junctional proteins. Syntaxin (Stx) families of proteins are localized at different subcellular membranes and are involved in intracellular trafficking of junctional proteins by regulating vesicle fusion events. Using MDCK II cell line we show that among various endosome‐Golgi localized Stxs, intracellular levels of Stx16 increases progressively as sparsely placed cells were allowed to attain confluency suggesting Stx16 may play a role in the maintenance of cell‐cell contact. Stx16 depleted stable MDCK II cell line when allowed to form confluent monolayer fail to maintain E‐cadherin at the cell‐cell junction. Stx16 depleted confluent monolayer consistently showed lower transepithelial resistance (TER) relative to control monolayer. As expected when these epithelial cells were cultured in matrigel they formed cyst with a hollow single lumen, cysts formed with stx16‐depleted cells show abnormal spindle orientation that lead to multiple lumen formation. Knockdown of zebrafish syntaxin 16 severely affects kidney morphogenesis and lumen formation in morphants. Taken together our in vitro and in vivo studies established role for syntaxin 16 in the maintenance of cell junction integrity and epithelial lumen morphogenesis.Grant Funding Source: N/A
Insights into splicing: structure of the yeast U1 snRNP
Authors: van der Feltz Clarisse , Grigorieff Nikolaus , Krummel Daniel Pomeranz 
Published: June 2021

Precursor‐mRNA splicing is catalyzed by a large and dynamic macromolecular assemblage termed the spliceosome. Integral to spliceosome function are five RNA‐protein complexes termed uridine‐rich small nuclear ribonucleoprotein particles, the U1, U2, U4, U5 and U6 snRNPs. An early and significant regulatory step in assembly of the spliceosome and splice‐site selection is U1 snRNP recognition of the junction between the 5′ exon and intron, a 5′ splice‐site. This pivotal event will act to: (1) trigger spliceosome assembly; (2) demarcate a 5′ splice‐site; and (3) contribute to spliceosome fidelity. In metazoans, U1 snRNP 5′ splice‐site selection is aided by transiently associated proteins known as alternative splicing factors that function to guide U1 snRNP to specific 5′ splice‐site(s). In contrast, Saccharomyces cerevisae has very few protein coding genes with more than a single intron. S. cerevisae U1 snRNP is an 18‐subunit, ~800 kDa assembly that has as integral subunits proteins that are alternative splicing factors in higher eukaryotes. We report the structure of a native S. cerevisae U1 snRNP determined by electron microscopy and present a working model that provides insight into the function of its protein subunits.Funding provided by the National Science Foundation; Howard Hughes Medical Institute
Molecular dynamics study of the stability of the sarcin/ricin domain of RNA
Authors: Bruist Michael Frederik , Cavanaugh Cassandre 
Published: June 2021

The importance of noncodoing RNAs is being appreciated more. These participate in regulation of all aspects of nucleic acids biology and also have structural and catalytic roles. Noncoding RNAs are assembled from motifs, A‐form helices and unstructured single strands. We are using molecular dynamics (MD) to understand the basis of stability of RNA motifs and their junctions to other motifs and helices.The stability of the sarcin/ricin domain (SRD) RNA motif is being studied in a dumbbell RNA in which a G/C‐rich and a A/U‐rich A‐form helix capped with a tetraloop flank the SRD domain. RNA melting is being observed using adaptively biased and replica exchange methods to explore the free energy profile as the dumbbell melts. We have found that more conformations can be explored more rapidly when the negative charges of the RNA are not completely neutralized by the cations. Artificial cations with less than unit charge allow multiple runs with different degree of neutralization. We are comparing the conformations explored under these conditions with those seen in a standard net neutralized system.
The interplay between substrate and allosteric effectors of the photosynthetic C4 isoenzyme of phosphoenolpyruvate carboxylase from monocot and dicot plants
Authors: Guemez‐Toro Rodrigo , Muñoz‐Clares Rosario A. 
Published: June 2021

Phosphoenolpyruvate carboxylase (PEPC) catalyzes the irreversible formation of oxaloacetate and Pi from phosphoenolpyruvate (PEP) and bicarbonate. This reaction constitutes the first step in the assimilation pathway of atmospheric CO2 in C4 plants, such as Zea mays, monocot, and Amaranthus hypochondriacus, dicot. The maize and amaranth photosynthetic PEPC isoenzymes (ZmPEPC‐C4 and AhPEPC‐C4 respectively) are activated by glucose‐6‐phosphate (Glc6P) and inhibited by malate and aspartate, but only ZmPEPC‐C4 is regulated by glycine (Gly), which is its main activator under physiological conditions. In this work we have explored the interplay between substrate and allosteric effectors in the two enzymes by initial velocity studies. At pH 7.3, 0.4 mM free Mg2+, and 0.1 mM bicarbonate, we found that: 1) The affinities for PEP and malate of AhPEPC‐C4, measured as Ks and Ki respectively, are higher than those of ZmPEPC‐C4, which result in similar I50 values for malate in both enzymes at physiological PEP concentrations. 2) Glc6P is an atypical activator because, unexpectedly, increases the inhibition by malate in both enzymes. 3) As expected, Gly counteracts the inhibition of ZmPEPC‐C4 by malate, which indicates the physiological relevance of the regulation by Gly of this enzyme. Why the activation by Gly of AhPEPC‐C4 is physiologically unnecessary remains to be explained.Supported by PAPIIT‐UNAM IN216911 grant.
Exclusive breastfeeding to six months: Results from a randomised controlled trial including lactation consultant support
Authors: Cameron Sonya Lynne , Taylor Rachael W , Gray Andrew R , Taylor Barry J , Heath Anne‐Louise M 
Published: June 2021

To investigate the impact of lactation support on exclusive breastfeeding (EBF) to 6 months, 804 mother‐infant pairs were randomised to 4 equal‐sized groups: 1) breastfeeding education and support, 2) infant sleep education, 3) both interventions, or 4) usual care. Certified lactation consultants (LC) delivered intervention sessions (ante‐natal, 1 week, 4 months postpartum) and were available on request to 6 months postpartum. Data on breastfeeding status and age at introduction of formula, other liquids, or complementary foods were collected at monthly interviews from 3 to 27 weeks postpartum. Exclusive breastfeeding was: “since birth, the infant had no food or drink, not even water, except breast milk or prescribed medicines”.At 6 months, 764 (93%) participants had known EBF status with 7.2% exclusively breastfeeding. No group differences in EBF rates were observed at 6 weeks, 4 months or 5.5 months (New Zealand recommendation is “around” 6 months) but marginal evidence of differences was found at 6 months of age (Wald test p=0.038). After adjusting for multiple comparisons, these differences were no longer statistically significant. Providing an LC at this intensity did not consistently improve EBF rates to 6 months of age in this highly educated sample. Future analysis will determine the effect of an LC on duration of any breastfeeding and timing of introduction of complementary foods.Funding source:Health Research Council of New Zealand.
Relationship between household environmental exposures and child stunting in India
Authors: Bondre Ameya P , Rogers Beatrice Lorge 
Published: June 2021

CARE phased over its 10 yr nutrition program to Gov't of India in 2009; a survey of mothers of children 6–23 mo (n‐3455) was conducted in 4 CARE program states 2 yrs later. This study investigates the relationship between environmental exposures and child stunting in 2011. Relationships between binary predictors (having a pucca [cement, no dirt floor] house, latrine or improved water source in the house) and stunting (HAZ LE ‐2 SD) were assessed through logistic and linear regression adjusted for clustering and for caste, tribal status, supplementary food receipt, feeding practices, distance from Anganwadi (child care) center, child age, state. For 4 states combined, not having a pucca house, latrine or improved water was associated with stunting. The association was significant for pucca house (OR: .81, CI: 0.67 – 0.98). Among states, most associations were negative but inconsistently significant. By linear regression, pucca house, improved water, and latrine significantly increased HAZ (by .22, .18 and .24 SD respectively), but R2 were low (.06). Latrine and improved water increased from 2009 and 2011 but is low (24%; 35%); stunting is high and unchanged (39.9% in 2009; 40% in 2011).Further longitudinal studies could establish these as causal associations, to better guide programs to reduce stunting, so that they also focus on improved water, sanitation and hygiene.Support: USAID FFP with FANTAIII Project, FHI360
Nitric Oxide Inhibits the Production of a Soluble Form of Endothelin Converting Enzyme‐1.
Authors: Kuruppu Sanjaya , Rajapakse Niwanthi W , Smith Ian 
Published: June 2021

We have recently identified a soluble form of Endothelin Converting Enzyme‐1 (ECE‐1) in endothelial cells, which has the potential to enhance the systemic production of endothelin‐1 in health and disease. In the present study, we determined the effect of nitric oxide (NO) on the production of a soluble form of ECE‐1. Endothelial cells were incubated with the NO donor sodium nitroprusside (0.1 – 0.5μM), Nitric oxide synthase (NOS) substrate L‐arginine (100 – 1000μM) alone or in the presence of NOS inhibitors L‐glutamine or L‐Lysine (100μM). ECE‐1 activity of the media (concentrated 5‐fold), was measured using a bradykinin based quenched fluorescent substrate assay. Production of soluble ECE‐1 was inhibited in the presence of 0.5μM sodium nitroprusside (reduction of 37.69 % compared to control, P<0.001) and 1000 μM L‐arginine (reduction of 45.88 % compared to control, P<0.001). L‐arginine mediated reduction in soluble ECE‐1 activity was prevented by L‐Lysine and L‐Glutamine (P≤0.01). Sodium nitroprusside (0.5 μM) alone had no effect on the activity of recombinant human ECE‐1.These data provide evidence that increasing NO can inhibit the production of soluble ECE‐1 in endothelial cells. This likely represents an in direct mechanism by which NO regulates the production of the potent vasoconstrictor Endothelin‐1.
S100A1 modulates inflammation and PI3/Akt signaling
Authors: Zimmer Danna B , Keeling David , Campbell Kerry , Campbell Katie , Afanador Lauriaselle 
Published: June 2021

The Ca2+sensor protein S100A1 regulates numerous processes involved in Alzheimer's disease (AD) that include Ca2+ homeostasis, APP expression, tau phosphorylation, Aβ toxicity, synaptogenesis, neuronal survival and cognitive function. Nonetheless, S100A1's contribution to AD pathobiology has not been elucidated. This study uses genetic ablation in an AD mouse model (PSAPP) and neuronal cell line (PC12) to ascertain the effects of S100A1 inhibition on AD pathobiology. In PC12 cells, S100A1 ablation resulted in a 2‐fold increase in phospho‐Akt and phsopho‐GSK3β levels. Since Akt has an S100 binding motif, these results are most likely attributable to a direct interaction between S100A1 and Akt. In the PSAPP mouse model, S100A1 ablation also increased phospho‐Akt levels but decreased plaque‐associated Akt staining. These changes were accompanied by beneficial reductions in microgliosis (Iba1 burden), astrocytosis (GFAP burden) and plaque load/burden. This is the first report that S100A1 regulates PI3/Akt signaling in neuronal cells and is pro‐inflammatory in AD. Studies are underway to identify other downstream events regulated by S100A1‐Akt‐GSK3β signaling in neuronal cells and AD. Collectively, these data suggest that S100A1 inhibition may be a novel strategy for AD drug development.Supported by the Center for Biomolecular Therapeutics.
Adhesive Interaction of Functionalized Particles and Endothelium in Idealized Microvascular Networks
Authors: Lamberti Giuseppina , Tang Yuan , Prabhakarpandian B. , Wang Yi , Pant Kapil , Kiani Mohammad F. , Wang Bin 
Published: June 2021

ObjectiveLeukocytes response to tissue injury/infection is mediated by a series of interactions between receptors and ligands on the endothelium and the leukocytes. Here, we characterize the adhesion profile of functionalized particles under physiological flow conditions in an idealized synthetic microvascular network (SMN) characterized by a bifurcation.MethodsFunctionalized particles were prepared by coating their surfaces with different ratios of antibodies against ICAM‐1 and E‐selectin (aICAM‐1:aE‐selectin = 100:0, 70:30, 50:50, 30:70, 0:100). The adhesion of functionalized particles to 4hr TNF‐α activated HUVECs under shear flow (0.5, 2, and 4 dyn/cm2) in bifurcating SMNs was then quantified.ResultsThe level of adhesion of 50:50 aICAM‐1:aE‐selectin particles was significantly higher compared to other particles in the bifurcating SMNs (~1.5–4 folds higher). Furthermore, the adhesion of particles in junction regions was about 3–18 folds higher than that in straight sections of the SMNs. Particle adhesion did not change significantly with decreasing shear at the junction regions of SMNs for all functionalized particles.ConclusionThe differential adhesion patterns of particles between straight sections and junction regions of bifurcating SMNs, indicates that adhesion profile of particles is highly dependent on the vascular geometry of the system used.