bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Musculoskeletal Anatomy Education: Evaluating the Influence of Different Methods of Delivery on Medical Students Perception and Academic Performance
Authors: Peeler Jason , Longo Alison , Bergen Hugo 
Published: November 2023

IntroductionMedical schools have traditionally used a dissection‐based approach for educating students about musculoskeletal (MSK) anatomy. There is a growing trend towards the use of prosected, and 2 or 3‐D imaging materials as learning resources. While data may suggest that these methods of delivery enhance the learning environment, controversy still exists among medical educators about the most efficient or effective way to educate students.PurposeThe main objective of this investigation was to examine whether the method of educational delivery would influence student perceptions about learning, and academic performance on MSK anatomy exams.MethodsUndergraduate students from the same medical school were compared. One cohort was educated using a dissection based teaching model; the second cohort was taught using a prosection based method of delivery. All other aspects of the MSK curriculum were the same, including contact hours. Information was gathered about student perceptions using a standardized survey that compared 6 different methods of delivery (dissection/prosection/lecture/case‐based/on‐line/medical imaging) on 8 specific learning objectives. Survey results were compared against student performance on MSK practical exams.ResultsNinety‐three students (dissection=39, prosection=54) participated. Only 27 students had previously taken an anatomy course. Both groups rated learning via medical imaging and case based scenarios highly. Each cohort ranked their specific method of delivery (dissect vs prosect) in the top 3. There was no significant difference in the academic performance between the groups.ConclusionsData support the inclusion of medical imaging and case‐based scenarios as a key component of MSK anatomy curriculum, but suggest that little difference exists in student performance when comparing dissection and prosection based curriculums. These results should help guide the selection of effective MSK anatomy delivery methods within medical programs.Support or Funding InformationFunding provided through the University of Manitoba teaching and Learning Enhancement Fund
Do screen display systems improve anatomy student performance?
Authors: Bardales ‐ Cahua Marco Antonio , Ulloa ‐ Deza Delfin Ramel , Fernández‐Rodríguez Lissett Jeanette 
Published: November 2023

Technology has provided various didactic tools for the anatomy classroom, including interactive screen display systems that supplement traditional cadaver‐based teaching methods. Our study investigates whether adding such display systems influences student performance. We followed a cohort of 623 students enrolled in an anatomy course over four semesters (2013–2015) that met inclusion criteria. The students enrolled in the first two semesters dissected cadavers only, while the students enrolled later used a SECTRA table display system and dissected cadavers. We find that grades in the anatomy course improved significantly (p<0.00) when the display system was implemented in the curriculum.Support or Funding InformationSchool of Medicine Antenor Orrego University
A blended learning approach for human skeletal anatomy with undergraduate students
Authors: Wakeham Travis R. , Morin Brigitte E. , Durocher John J. 
Published: November 2023

Consistent with current trends in higher education, we implemented blended learning activities into an introductory undergraduate anatomy and physiology course. The first phase of this project included developing self‐paced exam review videos and restructuring lab activities. The two laboratory modifications were designed to reinforce core concepts taught during the lecture. Specifically, we implemented: 1) online pre‐lab content pages with short readings and interactive animations; and 2) essay‐based laboratory quizzes that were graded by graduate teaching assistants through the mastery approach. The purpose of this study was to determine the effectiveness of these newly developed activities on skeletal anatomy learning. In order to do so, we compared student exam scores from the same course taught through traditional didactic lectures and laboratories last year to those of this year. The content of the skeletal anatomy laboratory learning module and lecture exam questions were the same for the two year analysis. A Wilcoxon rank‐sum test revealed that skeletal muscle exam scores significantly improved this year (P<0.01). Anonymous evaluations also revealed high satisfaction from students. We conclude that blended learning can be effectively implemented to improve student learning and satisfaction in regard to human skeletal anatomy.Support or Funding InformationThis project was supported by the blended learning grant program though the William G. Jackson Center for Teaching and Learning at Michigan Technological University.
Effectiveness of a course utilizing cadaver‐based dissection in preparation for gross anatomy as perceived by undergraduate students upon entry to professional school
Authors: Dennis Jennifer , Barry Alla 
Published: November 2023

In light of the demand required of gross anatomy in professional school, we installed a cadaver dissection suite on our campus with two goals: first, to incorporate prosected human specimens into our undergraduate anatomy courses, and second, to develop an advanced human dissection course for highly, motivated, pre‐professional students. For enrollment into the course, students must complete an application process and be selected by the Anatomy faculty at Missouri Southern; the course has been offered four semesters from Spring 2013 to Fall 2015. In this study, we examine the perceived effectiveness of BIO 475, Advanced Human Dissection, in preparing students as they transition into gross anatomy (or equivalent) during their first year of professional school. To address this, an electronic survey was distributed to graduates that had completed the BIO 475 course. The survey requested information about the importance of BIO 475 as it related to gross anatomy (or its equivalent), their preparedness as provided by their undergraduate training, and the perceived level of comfort with adapting to the increased demands in professional school. Additionally, we addressed the helpfulness of BIO 433, Histology, in preparing students for similar material at the professional level. A majority of the students reported that the BIO 475 course was beneficial to their professional studies, and that they felt more adequately prepared for the demands of gross anatomy at the professional level. Although many students reported that the structures included in the course were adequate, one area emphasized as important for inclusion was anatomical structures of the hand. Students who completed both BIO 475 and BIO 433 reported that both courses better prepared them for gross anatomy and/or histology at the professional level. The development of the Advanced Human Dissection course is a distinct benefit to students as they matriculate into their professional studies, and it is imperative that undergraduate faculty recognize the value of a human dissection course in adequately preparing students for this transition. As such, we have begun advising all pre‐professional students to complete both courses, and will continue to collect and analyze the perceived usefulness of the courses in the future.Support or Funding InformationNone to report.
Preliminary Multi‐Site Usage For The Online ‘Medical Imaging Solution For Teaching And Research’ (MISTR)
Authors: Carter Yasmin , Costa John , Burbridge Brent 
Published: November 2023

INTRODUCTIONClinical imaging is one of the most common ways medical professionals experience anatomy during their careers it is, however, only fractionally covered in the early years of medical school. This is related, in no small part, to the wholesale reduction in anatomical teaching time experienced by most programs. Additionally, there are concerns with lack of educator experience, and lack of representative images. Ideally, students need to study clinical imaging in a self‐directed manner on their own time. Anatomical teaching at UMass medical school is in the unique position of being under the purview of the Department of Radiology, allowing unprecedented access to trained educators and clinical imaging.METHODSUtilizing the previously described (Carter et al., 2015) ‘Medical Imaging Solution for Teaching and Research’ (MISTR), an online image education resource, created at the University of Saskatchewan, a multi‐site collaborative program was designed. This education tool included access to the MISTR‐Repository, a library of clinical image cases of both normal and variant anatomy, online case‐based education modules, and vitally, O.D.I.N. a unique online dicom image navigator that preserves image resolution and facilitates easy image access.DISCUSSIONThe key to MISTR's success is the modular nature of the program. Multiple instructors can utilize individual clinical images in multiple ways. New cases can be built utilizing the same images without disturbing other cases. Purpose built plugins for ‘Blackboard’ the learning management system used by both sites, allows a portal for all instructors to access all cases and to quickly allow instructors to associate images or cases with their coursework. The success of the program will continue to be tested with the release of the beta version in early 2016.SIGNIFICANCEIntegrating clinical imaging earlier into the medical curriculum and closely associating it with gross anatomy allows students to better assimilate their understanding of anatomical structures as viewed in dissection and text books with that seen though different imaging modalities, long term we suggest this will enable easier comprehension of advanced clinical imaging and patient outcomes. Additionally, the creation of an online viewer allows students to work in a simulated clinical imaging environment at their own pace, in their own time.
Integrating Clinical Medicine with the Basic Sciences; Pulmonology Learning Modules for Medical Students
Authors: Doroudi Majid , Hoomayon Babak , Cohen Richard 
Published: November 2023

Many medical students find memorizing the detailed of their basic science courses difficult and daunting, especially if they do not know what the application of that subject is during their medical practice. The overall objective of this study was to encourage students to adopt a more anatomical approach to clinical skills and also to show explicitly the relevance of pulmonary anatomy and embryology, thus moving away from rote memorization of physical exam skills and anatomical knowledge.In order to accomplish the goal of interactive case‐based modules we used the Articulate Engage software suite to create two modules that progress slide by slide in order to encourage a logical flow from patient presentation through to treatment. Using Articulate we were also able to add interactive labeled diagrams to review pulmonary anatomy, pictures to study clinical skills, and integrated quizzes to test student knowledge. The pulmonary modules were evaluated objectively from the survey questionnaire results and subjectively from the comments from the results. Before the modules 20% of students felt they knew the pulmonary materials well or very well. After the modules 58% of students felt they knew the pulmonary materials well or very well. Over 90% of students surveyed strongly or very strongly wanted to see more modules like these modules in their program.
Coordination of Gene Expression and Cell Cycle Progression in Response to Stress; a Novel Checkpoint in S Phase
Authors: Garriga Francesc Posas , Duch Alba , Canal Berta , de Nadal Eulàlia 
Published: November 2023

Exposure of cells to increases in extracellular osmolarity results in the activation of the Hog1 stress‐activated protein kinase (SAPK). Activation of Hog1 is required to generate a set of osmoadaptive responses essential for survival under high osmolarity. Adaptation to osmostress requires the induction of a large number of genes, which indicates the necessity to regulate several aspects of the cell physiology. In addition to gene expression, the SAPK also controls cell cycle. Here, we showed that the SAPK is able to modulate cell cycle delay in different phases of the cell cycle including S phase. During S phase, Hog1 controls Mrc1, a protein of the replication complex, to control DNA replication (Duch et al., 2013). The control of replication through Mrc1 is required to coordinate stress‐responsive gene induction with duplication of DNA upon osmostress. Remarkably, we have recently found that Mrc1 is also important to delay replication in response to other environmental stresses suggesting a conserved mechanism of S phase regulation upon transcriptional outbursts.Support or Funding InformationThis work was supported by grants from the Spanish Government (BFU2012‐33503 to F.P., BFU2014 52333 to E.d.N.) and the Fundación Marcelino Botín to F.P. F.P. and E.d.N. are recipients of an ICREA Academia (Generalitat de Catalunya).
Small Molecule Ogg1 Activators Ameliorate mtDNA Oxidation and Promote Cell Health
Authors: Katchur Steven R , Davis Alicia M , Ellis Elizabeth , Pickard Benjamin , Pyne Susan , Rumsey William 
Published: November 2023

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is characterized by progressive airflow limitation, loss of the alveolar unit, and increased levels of oxidative damage to macromolecules, including DNA. 8‐oxoguanine (8‐OG) is the most common oxidative DNA lesion and its removal and repair is executed through the base excision repair pathway (BER). The purpose of this study was to determine whether enhancing the activity of the DNA glycosylase, Ogg1, would benefit epithelial cell health during an oxidative challenge. Paraquat, an herbicide that intercalates within the inner mitochondrial membrane was used in combination with A549 cells to produce excessive amounts of reactive oxygen species. Levels of 8‐OG were measured using immunofluorescence and single cell phenotypic analysis was undertaken using a high content imaging platform. Transduction of A549 cells with full length‐Ogg1 baculovirus lowered the maximal levels of 8‐OG in mtDNA by 200% as compared to null virus control cells. Conversely, administration of Ogg1 siRNA rendered the cells more vulnerable to paraquat, increasing 8‐OG content by almost 500%. Exemplars of small molecule Ogg1 activators identified through a high‐throughput‐screen, were shown to reduce paraquat‐induced 8‐OG formation by approximately 50%. Moreover, Ogg1 activators improved paraquat‐induced loss of mitochondrial membrane potential, while paraquat‐induced cytochrome c translocation to the nucleus was blocked. The paraquat‐stimulated decline in the cellular energy state, i.e., the ATP/ADP ratio, was prevented in the presence of the Ogg1 activators. Associated with the beneficial effects of the Ogg1 activators described above was the preservation of nuclear area. These data provide evidence of cytoprotection from oxidation of mtDNA when Ogg1 protein is increased or through allosteric activation of the protein, suggesting that the BER pathway may be a target for potential small molecule intervention in COPD.Support or Funding InformationGlaxoSmithKline
Tripartite DNA Lesion Recognition and Verification by XPC, TFIIH, and XPA in Nucleotide Excision Repair
Authors: Golebiowski Filip M. , Li Chia‐Lung , Onishi Yuki , Samara Nadine L. , Sugasawa Kaoru , Yang Wei 
Published: November 2023

Transcription factor IIH (TFIIH) is essential for both transcription and nucleotide excision repair (NER). DNA lesions are initially detected by NER factors XPC and XPE or stalled RNA polymerases, but only bulky lesions are preferentially repaired by NER. To elucidate substrate specificity in NER, we have prepared homogeneous human ten‐subunit TFIIH and its seven‐subunit core (Core7) without the CAK module and show that bulky lesions in DNA inhibit the ATPase and helicase activities of both XPB and XPD in Core7 to promote NER, whereas non‐genuine NER substrates have no such effect. Moreover, the NER factor XPA activates unwinding of normal DNA by Core7, but inhibits the Core7 helicase activity in the presence of bulky lesions. Finally, the CAK module inhibits DNA binding by TFIIH and thereby enhances XPC‐dependent specific recruitment of TFIIH. Our results support a tripartite lesion verification mechanism involving XPC, TFIIH, and XPA for efficient NER.Support or Funding InformationWe thank Dr. Mikalai Lapkouski for help with negative staining electron microscopy; and Lindsay Wise for purified XPA protein. This work is funded by NIH intramural program (DK075037‐06), and Grants‐in‐Aid for Scientific Research from JSPS and MEXT, Japan.
Early replication stress leads to abnormal mitosis and genome rearrangement
Authors: Forsburg Susan 
Published: November 2023

Yeast cell cycle genetics suggests that cells under replication stress generate damage signals that are sufficient to activate checkpoints and restrain mitosis. Yet in mammalian cancer cells, replication stress is not necessarily sufficient to block division. This can lead to abnormal mitotic structures including chromosome bridges, lagging chromosomes, ultrafine anaphase bridges, and micronuclei. This abnormal mitosis is a source for increased mutations including dramatic chromosome rearrangements including chromothripsis, resulting in characteristic genome instability. We have examined the response to different forms of replication stress in the fission yeast, S. pombe, employing visual methods and single‐cell live‐cell analysis.First, we observe distinct patterns of single‐strand binding protein RPA and homologous recombination protein Rad52 depending on the timing and type of stress we induce. This creates a fingerprint of different S phase‐specific stress responses which we can correlate to distinct outcomes.Second, we identify a novel stress‐associated phenotype in a temperature sensitive mutation of the Mcm4 helicase subunit. Despite under‐replicated DNA, the cells fail to arrest during temperature shift, and following release. Biochemical analysis suggests that they evade the checkpoint. Our dynamic pedigrees reveal surprising examples of division under stress including all the mitotic structures described above, including ultrafine anaphase bridges and apparent micronuclei. These abnormal mitoses are associated with genome instability, mutations, and chromosome rearrangement in the surviving cells.Our study shows that a subset of cells within a whole population can continue to divide, despite significant negative effects on genome integrity, and establishes a genetic model to study mechanisms that allow division to occur despite stress.Support or Funding InformationNIH R01 GM081418 &GM111040
Estrogen induces RAD51C expression and localization to sites of DNA damage
Authors: Holz Marina K. 
Published: November 2023

Homologous recombination (HR) is a conserved process that maintains genome stability and cell survival by repairing DNA double‐strand breaks (DSBs). The RAD51‐related family of proteins is involved in repair of DSBs, consequently, deregulation of RAD51 in human cells causes chromosomal rearrangements and stimulates tumorigenesis. RAD51C in particular has been identified as a potential tumor suppressor and a breast and ovarian cancer susceptibility gene. Recent studies implicated estrogen as a DNA‐damaging agent that causes DSBs. We found that in estrogen receptor (ER)α‐positive breast cancer cells, estrogen transcriptionally regulates RAD51C expression in ERα‐dependent mechanism. Moreover, estrogen induces RAD51C assembly into nuclear foci at DSBs, which is a precursor to RAD51 complex recruitment to the nucleus. These findings provide insight into the mechanism of genomic instability in ERα‐positive breast cancer. We propose that in normal breast epithelia, estrogen‐induced DNA damage is compensated by estrogenic activation of expression of DNA repair proteins, such as RAD51C. Conversely, individuals with mutations in RAD51C would be more susceptible to accumulation of DNA damage, leading to tumorigenesis and cancer progression.Support or Funding InformationNIH–CA151112; Atol Charitable Trust; LAM Foundation– 098P0113; American Cancer Society–RSG‐13‐287‐01‐TBE and National Cancer Center.
Epigenetics Impacts Copy Number Heterogeneity and Drug Resistant Gene Selection
Authors: Whetstine Johnathan R , Black Joshua C , Mishra Sweta , Sexton Brittany , Van Rechem Capucine , Murphy Sedona 
Published: November 2023

Copy number heterogeneity is a feature of tumors and associates with acquired drug resistance. The mechanistic bases for copy number heterogeneity, especially selection of specific regions within the genome, are unknown. We have recently identified the histone tri‐demethylase KDM4A as the first enzyme capable of promoting site‐specific copy number changes. KDM4A overexpression as well as stabilization promotes localized copy gain without global chromosome instability. Tumors with increased KDM4A levels are enriched in copy gains for cytobands observed in cell culture models. We further demonstrate that these events are the result of rereplication. These copy gains occur during S phase and are removed as cells are exiting S phase. The cytoband gains are affiliated with drug resistant tumors; therefore, we asked whether targeting the copy gains through chemical inhibition of KDM4A was possible and whether a chemical screen could demonstrate that an active process is associated with elimination of copy gained regions. Our most recent data demonstrates the druggability of these processes. In fact, we have now identified small molecules that impact KDM4A and copy gain as well as the ability to remove gains during cell cycle progression. Lastly, a screen for environmental and chemical agents has uncovered input signals that are responsible for generating site‐specific gains through altering the chromatin environment. Taken together, we have identified genetic, epigenetic and environmental factors promoting copy number heterogeneity in tumors and established that these events are targetable through inhibition of chromatin regulators.Support or Funding InformationNIH/NIGMSLeukemia and Lymphoma SocietyAmerican Cancer SocietyAmerican Lung AssociationAlex Lemonade Stand Foundation