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Cellular DNA is constantly exposed to endogenous or exogenous factors that can induce lesions. Several types of lesions have been described that can result from UV/ionizing irradiations, oxidative stress, or free radicals, among others. In order to overcome the deleterious effects of such damages, i.e., mutagenicity or cytotoxicity, cells possess a highly complex DNA repair machinery, involving repair enzymes targeting specific types of lesions through dedicated cellular pathways. In addition, DNA is highly compacted in the nucleus, the first level of compaction consisting of ~ 147 DNA base pairs wrapped around a core of histones, the so-called nucleosome core particle. In this complex environment, the DNA structure is highly constrained, and fine-tuned mechanisms involving remodeling processes are required to expose the DNA to repair enzymes and to facilitate the damage removal. However, these nucleosome-specific mechanisms remain poorly understood, and computational methods emerged only recently as powerful tools to investigate DNA damages in such complex systems as the nucleosome. In this mini-review, we summarize the latest advances brought out by computational approaches in the field, opening new exciting perspectives for the study of DNA damage and repair in the nucleosome context. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

There are no validated training/accreditation guidelines for capsule endoscopy. We assessed the utility of a structured training program on two experienced gastroenterologists and one endoscopy nurse. Validated studies were standardized for difficulty in blocks of three. Trainees completed a standardized data sheet for each study reported (12 studies for the physicians, 22 studies for the nurse). After each block the trainer graded performance and highlighted learning points. Statistical analysis was performed. Physician trainees accurately identified landmarks throughout, while the nurse made errors even at the end of training. Improvement in lesion detection and diagnostic accuracy improved in the nurse, but in only one of the physician trainees, highlighting the variability in learning curves. Overall performance improved in all trainees but was most marked for the nurse trainee (correlation coefficient 0.41, P = 0.06). Improvements in lesion recognition and diagnosis can be demonstrated in senior trainees and nurses following a structured training program; however, there is considerable variability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]