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Background: Double crush syndrome refers to a nerve in the proximal region being compressed, affecting its proximal segment. Instances of this syndrome involving ulnar and cubital canals during ulnar neuropathy are rare. Diagnosis solely through clinical examination is challenging. Although electromyography (EMG) and nerve conduction studies (NCS) can confirm neuropathy, they do not incorporate inching tests at the wrist, hindering diagnosis confirmation. We recently encountered eight cases of suspected double compression of ulnar nerve, reporting these cases along with a literature review. Methods: The study included 5 males and 2 females, averaging 45.6 years old. Among them, 4 had trauma history, and preoperative McGowan stages varied. Ulnar neuropathy was confirmed in 7 cases at both cubital and ulnar canal locations. Surgery was performed for 4 cases, while conservative treatment continued for 3 cases. Results: In 4 cases with wrist involvement, 2 showed ulnar nerve compression by a fibrous band, and 1 had nodular hyperplasia. Another case displayed ulnar nerve swelling with muscle covering. Among the 4 surgery cases, 2 improved from preoperative McGowan stage IIB to postoperative stage 0, with significant improvement in subjective satisfaction. The remaining 2 cases improved from stage IIB to IIA, respectively, with moderate improvement in subjective satisfaction. In the 3 cases receiving conservative treatment, satisfaction was significant in 1 case and moderate in 2 cases. Overall, there was improvement in hand function across all 7 cases. Conclusion: Typical outpatient examinations make it difficult to clearly differentiate the two sites, and EMG tests may not confirm diagnosis. Therefore, if a surgeon lacks suspicion of this condition, diagnosis becomes even more challenging. In cases with less than expected postoperative improvement in clinical symptoms of cubital tunnel syndrome, consideration of double crush syndrome is warranted. Additional tests and detailed EMG tests, including inching tests at the wrist, may be necessary. We aim to raise awareness double crush syndrome with ulnar nerve, reporting a total of 7 cases to support this concept. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Ischemic time is a key factor in satisfactory functional results after forearm replantation. In this study, we provide a detailed description of our surgical technique, the temporary screw plate fixation technique, which aims to reduce ischemic time. Methods: From June 2007 to June 2017, we performed a retrospective study of 20 patients who underwent forearm replantation. Eighteen cases involved male patients, and their mean age was 46 years. The mechanism of injury was roller injuries in 5 cases, power saw injuries in 3 cases, traffic accident in 7 cases, rope injuries in 2 cases, machinery injuries in 2 cases, and crushing injuries by rebar beam in 1 case. Results: A total of 20 replantation patients survived. According to injury level, there were 3 cases of the proximal type, 11 cases of the middle type, and 6 cases of the distal type. The average time to revascularization was 331 min. The total operation time was, on average, 5.73 h. In the rest of the 18 cases, the temporary screw plate fixation technique was performed, and the average time required for bone shortening and plate fixation was 38.3 min. Conclusions: To reduce ischemic time, we need a plan that progressively reduces time at each stage. Among our tips, temporary screw plate fixation can reduce the initial bone surgical operation to < 40 min, does not have many complications, and can be used as definitive surgery. This method for bone fixation should be considered as a strategy to actively reduce operation time during forearm replantation. Level of evidence: Retrospective study, Level III. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Segmental fractures often result from high-energy or indirect trauma that causes bending or torsional forces with axial loading. We evaluated surgical outcomes of patients with forearm segmental diaphyseal fractures. Methods: We retrospectively analyzed data from patients with forearm segmental fractures for which they underwent surgery at the Pusan National University Trauma Center from March 2013 to March 2022. We also analyzed accompanying injuries, injury severity score (ISS), injury mechanism, occurrence of open fracture, surgical technique, and treatment results. Results: Fifteen patients were identified, one with bilateral segmental diaphyseal forearm bone fracture, for a total of 16 cases. Nine of the patients were male. The overall mean age was 50 years, and the mean follow-up period was 16.2 months. Six cases who underwent surgery using plate osteosynthesis achieved bone union without length deformity at final follow-up. Three of seven patients who underwent intramedullary nailing alone underwent reoperation due to nonunion. Six cases achieved bone union at final follow-up, three of which showed length deformity. Three patients underwent surgery using a hybrid method of IM nailing, plates, and mini cables. One patient who underwent surgery with a plate and one patient who underwent surgery with IM nailing alone showed nonunion and were lost to follow-up. Conclusion: Plate osteosynthesis is considered the gold standard for treatment of adult forearm diaphyseal segmental fractures. In this study, IM nailing was associated with high rates of non-union and length deformity. However, the combination of IM nailing and a plate-cable system may be an acceptable alternative in segmental diaphyseal forearm fracture, achieving a union rate similar to that provided by plate fixation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Even though home deaths have been reported to improve quality of life, satisfy patients and families, and reduce healthcare expenditures, not enough is known about the factors that influence home deaths in Korea. Objectives: This study aimed to examine the factors associated with home deaths among middle-aged and older adults in South Korea. Methods: This secondary data analysis used core interview and exit interview data of the Korean Longitudinal Study of Aging conducted between 2008 and 2018. The deceased included adults over the age of 45 years. The exit data were obtained from interviews with family members or other acquaintances known to the deceased every two years since 2008. Complex-sample logistic regression was conducted using 1,565 middle-aged and older deceased adults. Results: Among 1,565 decedents, the average age at the time of death was 80.67±10.69 in the home death group, and 78.72±9.83 in the non-home death group. The proportion of home-related deaths was 26.4%. Age over 81 years was associated with increased odds of home death, whereas having two or more living children, living in town/small city, paid medical expenses by children/grandchildren and their spouses, expected death, death from disease, and having three or more chronic diseases were associated with decreased odds of home death. An increase in activities of daily living during three months before death was associated with a decrease in home death. Conclusion: The findings could help healthcare professionals develop tailored interventions to help people die at their preferred place of death based on family characteristics and healthcare accessibility. Age, residential area, number of children and children's financial support, and illness-related factors influenced home death by creating differences in access to healthcare resources and support. Policymakers should decrease healthcare disparities and improve health resource allocation and home-based care. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Injectable hydrogels are promising delivery vehicles for the sustained release of therapeutic proteins. Electrostatic interactions between proteins and hydrogels often increase affinity to decelerate protein release. However, this approach is not suitable for weakly charged proteins. The current study shows that the genetic fusion of a highly charged protein segment (charge booster tag) with proteins can control their interactions with injectable gels. A positive or negative charge booster tag is introduced into urate oxidase (UOX), a therapeutic protein for gout, to generate UOX variants with varying net charges. When a positively‐charged injectable hydrogel is used, both the in vitro release rate and in vivo serum half‐life of UOX are correlated with the net negative charge. This modified delivery approach results in a serum half‐life of over 106 h for the UOX variant, which is substantially longer than that of free UOX (3.3 h). Hence, charge booster tags can be used as a systematic strategy for controlling the release of therapeutic proteins. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Finger injuries caused by green onion cutting machines in Korean kitchens have unique characteristics of an incomplete amputation in which multiple parallel soft tissues and blood vessels are injured in the same form. In this study, we aimed to describe unique finger injuries and to report the treatment outcomes and experiences of performing possible soft tissue reconstructions. Methods: This case series study included 65 patients (82 fingers) from December 2011 to December 2015. The mean age was 50.5 years. We retrospectively classified the presence of fractures and the degree of damage in patients. The injured area involvement level was categorised as distal, middle or proximal. The direction was categorised as sagittal, coronal, oblique or transverse. The treatment results were compared according to the amputation direction and injury area. Results: Of the 65 patients, 35 had a partial finger necrosis and needed additional surgeries. Finger reconstructions were performed through stump revision or local or free flap use. The survival rate was significantly lower in patients with fractures. As for the injury area, distal involvement led to 17 out of 57 patients displaying necrosis and all 5 patients showing the same in proximal involvement. Conclusions: Unique finger injuries caused by green onion cutting machines can easily be treated with simple sutures. Then prognosis is affected by the extent of injury and the presence of fractures. Reconstruction is necessary for finger necrosis owing to extensive blood vessel damage and limitations when making this selection. Level of Evidence: Level IV (Therapeutic) [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mothers-in-law in multicultural families tend to experience psychological burden. This study aimed to verify the effects of the cultural adaptation promotion resilience program (CAPRP) on resilience, acculturation stress, depression, and quality of life among mothers-in-law in multi-cultural families. Forty-two participants from multicultural family support centres in the metropolitan city A were assigned to either the intervention group or the control group. The CAPRP was performed for 60 minutes, twice a week for four weeks. The intervention group showed a significant decrease in the acculturation stress (p =.002), and depression (p =.006), while resilience (p <.001) and quality of life (p <.001) significantly increased compared to the control group. The intervention group reported significant improvements in resilience, acculturation stress, depression, and quality of life in comparison with the control group. The results indicated that the CAPRP, developed based on positive cognitive appraisal, was an efficient nursing intervention for mothers-in-law in multicultural families. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Ionic liquid (IL)-adsorbed catalyst changes the morphology of the catalyst layer. • IL adsorption reduces the ORR charge transfer resistance in the electrode. • IL adsorption enhances the stability under the accelerated durability test. A majority of studies focus on developing oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) catalysts and cathode configurations to enhance the performance and durability of polymer electrolyte membrane fuel cells (PEMFCs). In this study, resistance analyses of the membrane electrode assembly (MEA) are conducted to elaborate on the performance and durability improvements induced by the adsorption of [MTBD][beti] ionic liquid (IL) on the commercial PtCo/C catalyst. The morphological changes caused by IL adsorption are observed on micro and macro scales via physicochemical methods. From the half-cell measurement, when the 4 wt% IL was adsorbed, a 15 mV improvement in ORR activity occurred, and as the adsorption amount increased, the activity decreased. The MEA using 8 wt% IL adsorbed catalyst outperforms 1.7 times higher current density at 0.8 V and 40 % lower charge transfer resistance. Distribution of relaxation time resistance analysis reveals that oxygen mass transfer resistance (R mass), ORR charge transfer resistance (R ORR), and proton charge transfer resistance (R proton) decrease due to IL adsorption. During accelerated durability tests, IL 8 % MEA showed a 58 % increase in durability, and a lower degradation of R ORR and R proton encouraged improved durability. The resistance analyses in this study contribute to identifying the factors responsible for the performance and durability enhancement of PEMFC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Open in new tab Download slide Open in new tab Download slide OBJECTIVES The aims of this study were to evaluate and compare the outcomes after pulmonary valve replacement (PVR) with a mechanical prosthesis (MP) and a bioprosthesis (BP). METHODS From 2004 through 2017, a total of 131 patients, who had already been repaired for tetralogy or Fallot or its variants, underwent their first PVR with an MP or a BP. Outcomes of interests were prosthesis failure (stenosis >3.5 m/s, regurgitation >mild or infective endocarditis) and reintervention. RESULTS The median age at PVR was 19 years. BP and MP were used in 88 (67.2%) and 43 (32.8%) patients, respectively. The median follow-up duration was 7.4 years, and the 10-year survival rate was 96.4%. Risk factors for prosthesis failure were smaller body surface area [hazard ratio (HR) 0.23 per 1 m2, P  =   0.047] and smaller prosthesis size (HR 0.73 per 1 mm, P  =   0.039). Risk factors for prosthesis reintervention were smaller body surface area (HR 0.11 per 1 m2, P  =   0.011) and prosthesis size (HR 0.67 per 1 mm, P  =   0.044). Probability of prosthesis failure and reintervention at 10 years were 24.6% (19.5% in BP vs 34.8% in MP, P  =   0.34) and 7.8% (5.6% in BP vs 11.9% in MP, P  =   0.079), respectively. Anticoagulation-related major thromboembolic events were observed in 4 patients receiving an MP. CONCLUSIONS MP might not be superior to BP in terms of prosthesis failure or reintervention. MP should be carefully considered for highly selected patients in the era of transcatheter PVR. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the membrane electrode assembly (MEA) of high-temperature polymer electrolyte membrane fuel cells (HT-PEMFCs), many types of resistance existed, but they have not been distinctly characterized in previous research. In this study, the distribution of relaxation times (DRT) methodology is employed, in conjunction with a home-built electrochemical electrode analysis system (EEAS), to figure out the specific resistance components in the cathode gas diffusion electrode (GDE). The impedance analysis by the DRT method was conducted using the electrochemical impedance spectrum obtained at different temperatures and current densities of the cathode only, isolated from the MEA environment. The four peaks (designated as Peak 0 to 3) were depicted at DRT plots of cathode GDE below 103 Hz. By comparing the DRT plots for different conditions and considering the EEAS structure, the four peaks were explained to be caused by distinct resistances occurring at the electrode and interface. The regions of each peak were distinguished according to their position changes with temperature and current density. Furthermore, by contrasting the DRT plots of the cathode GDE with those of MEA containing the same cathode, an additional peak (referred to as Peak 4) is identified between 103 Hz and 104 Hz, which was attributed to resistance originating from the anode. This study could provide a new approach for future research of new catalysts and electrodes utilizing the resistance analysis of MEA for HT-PEMFC. [Display omitted] • The EEAS was utilized to perform electrochemical analysis of the GDE. • DRT method separates resistances as peaks in the cathode GDE of HT-PEMFCs. • Each peak from the DRT plot is assigned according to the origin of resistance. • Comparative study with MEA differentiates the resistance from electrodes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Eurotiales is a relatively large order of Ascomycetes, well-known for their ability to produce secondary metabolites with potential beneficial applications. To understand their diversity and distribution, different environmental sources including soil, freshwater, insect, and indoor air were investigated. Eight strains of Eurotiales were isolated and identified based on their morphological characters and a multi-gene phylogenetic analysis of the ITS, BenA, CaM, and RPB2 regions. We identified eight taxa that were previously not reported from Korea: Aspergillus baeticus, A. griseoaurantiacus, A. spinulosporus, Penicillium anthracinoglaciei, P. labradorum, P. nalgiovense, Talaromyces atroroseus, and T. georgiensis. Detailed descriptions, illustrations, and phylogenetic tree for the eight new records species are presented, and information regarding the records is also discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Keywords: charge booster tags; injectable gels; serum half-life; therapeutic proteins EN charge booster tags injectable gels serum half-life therapeutic proteins 1 1 1 03/15/23 20230309 NES 230309 B Charge Booster Tags b In article number 2209874, Jaeyun Kim, Inchan Kwon, and co-workers show cars with a booster that deliver the loaded drugs to the goal (blood vessel). Charge booster tags, injectable gels, serum half-life, therapeutic proteins Charge Booster Tags for Controlled Release of Therapeutics from a Therapeutic Carrier (Adv. Funct. [Extracted from the article]

Background: Visitation restrictions due to COVID‐19 kept parents from being with their children who were hospitalized in the PICU and from meeting with professional staff. Aim: This study examined the moderating effect of COVID‐19‐induced visitation restrictions on the relationship between stress and post‐traumatic stress disorder in parents of children admitted to the paediatric intensive care unit. Study Design: We conducted a descriptive, exploratory study involving 93 parents of children hospitalized in the paediatric intensive care unit using the Korean version of the Parental Stressor Scale: Paediatric Intensive Care Unit and the Revised Impact of Events Scale. Descriptive, Pearson's correlation, and logistic regression analyses were used to investigate the data. Self‐reported survey questionnaires were provided for parents to complete in a separate area of the outpatient clinic when they visited for follow‐up care after their children were discharged from the paediatric intensive care unit. Results: Mothers showed significantly higher post‐traumatic stress disorder scores than fathers. The relationship between all the sub‐domains of perceived stress and post‐traumatic stress disorder was statistically significant. Visitation restrictions because of the COVID‐19 pandemic had significant moderating effects on the relationship between perceived parental stress and post‐traumatic stress disorder. Moreover, the moderating effects of COVID‐19 were exhibited when the two sub‐domains—hyperarousal and intrusion—were investigated. Conclusions: Paediatric intensive care unit visitation may be an important intervention for parental post‐traumatic stress disorder. Parental visitation should be enabled, and alternative interventions should be developed in situations where visitation is prohibited. Relevance to Clinical Practice: It is necessary to develop and apply various and effective alternatives visitation that can prepare hospitals for visiting restrictions during pandemic situations which could emerge in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

TTF-1 stimulates appetite by regulating the expression of agouti-related peptide (AgRP) and proopiomelanocortin (POMC) genes in the hypothalamus of starving animals. However, the mechanism underlying TTF-1's response to decreased energy levels remains elusive. Here, we provide evidence that the NAD+-dependent deacetylase, sirtuin1 (Sirt1), activates TTF-1 in response to energy deficiency. Energy deficiency leads to a twofold increase in the expression of both Sirt1 and TTF-1, leading to the deacetylation of TTF-1 through the interaction between the two proteins. The activation of Sirt1, induced by energy deficiency or resveratrol treatment, leads to a significant increase in the deacetylation of TTF-1 and promotes its nuclear translocation. Conversely, the inhibition of Sirt1 prevents these Sirt1 effects. Notably, a point mutation in a lysine residue of TTF-1 significantly disrupts its deacetylation and thus nearly completely hinders its ability to regulate AgRP and POMC gene expression. These findings highlight the importance of energy-deficiency-induced deacetylation of TTF-1 in the control of AgRP and POMC gene expression. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Electrolyte-gated transistors (EGTs) are promising candidates for artificial synaptic devices, due to lower energy consumption by forming the electric double layer to modulate the channel conductance. In this work, we propose a three-terminal artificial synapse transistor employing HfO 2 electrolyte-gate insulator (EGI). The inorganic HfO 2 thin film with high dielectric constant was chosen as a good candidate of an EGI to improve the operational stability and energy consumption for the synapse transistor. Mobile hydrogen ions incorporated in the HfO 2 EGI were revealed to be generated during the ALD process at a temperature as low as 100 °C. The synaptic plasticity of the fabricated synapse transistor could be gradually modulated by the movement of mobile ions in the EGI, which were examined to be dependent on the applied pulse conditions. The fabricated synapse transistor emulated biological synaptic functions, including excitatory/inhibitory post-synaptic current (EPSC/IPSC) and paired-pulse facilitation/depression (PPF/PPD). Furthermore, by controlling the pulse spike conditions, the conversion from short-term plasticity (STP) to long-term plasticity (LTP) was successfully verified. The LTP characteristics were demonstrated to be far enhanced with the EGI film thickness by means of magnifying the amounts of incorporated mobile ions. In addition, the long-term reliability and operational repeatability of the fabricated synapse transistor were well verified thanks to the choice of HfO 2 EGI. The energy consumption required for single spike event was estimated to be a value as low as 0.26 pJ, thus demonstrating considerable potential as an artificial synapse device. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

R3680 --> 610.4 --> The central nervous system (CNS) is strongly implicated in cardiovascular disease development including hypertension. In particular, alterations in the subfornical organ (SFO), a forebrain sensory circumventricular nucleus located outside of the blood‐brain‐barrier, is directly associated with hypertension in response to elevations in the hormone angiotensin‐II (Ang‐II). From a circuitry perspective, SFO excitatory neurons that project to the hypothalamic paraventricular nucleus (PVN; hereafter referred to as SFO to PVN) have been suggested to be critical in the development of Ang‐II hypertension. While most investigations have focused on functional mechanisms, little attention has been paid to anatomical synaptic reorganization of SFO to PVN circuits during hypertension development. Thus, we aimed to characterize SFO to PVN synaptic input during hypertension development and further delineate molecular mechanisms involved. Male C57Bl/6J mice were infused with Ang‐II (600 ng/kg/min) for 14 days. Immunohistochemistry in the PVN following Ang‐II infusion revealed elevations in synaptophysin, pointing to overall increases in synaptic innervation of this nucleus (100 ± 1 vs. 112 ± 2 density/area, day 0 vs day 14, n=3/group, p<0.05). Given the strong link between SFO to PVN neurons in cardiovascular regulation, we next focused on the SFO. Our recent work demonstrated a key role for SFO insulin receptors in blood pressure regulation, and therefore, we determined if insulin receptors are expressed on SFO to PVN neurons using retrograde cholera toxin B tracing from the PVN. Immunohistochemistry revealed clear expression of insulin receptors on SFO to PVN neurons. Building on this, we and others have characterized a novel neural tissue‐enriched epidermal growth factor repeat domain containing protein (NELL2) that is involved in axonal projections and synaptic reorganization. Importantly, NELL2 has been suggested to be a downstream signaling molecule of neurotropic receptors, such as insulin receptors. In situ hybridization and immunohistochemistry confirmed the expression of NELL2 in the SFO, and further demonstrated elevated SFO NELL2 during Ang‐II hypertension (100 ± 5 vs. 137 ± 15 density/area, day 0 vs day 14, n=3‐4, p<0.05). Interestingly, co‐immunohistochemistry indicated that the majority of SFO insulin receptor cells express NELL2. Finally, to determine functional crosstalk between insulin receptors and NELL2, we utilized in vitro cell culture experiments. Hippocampal HT22 cells were transfected with a NELL2‐luciferase dependent vector and insulin was administrated into the medium. Insulin stimulated NELL2 gene transcription in a dose‐dependent manner (e.g. 174 and 196% increase relative to vehicle, 100 and 1000 nM insulin respectively, n=3/group, p<0.05). Collectively, these results indicate increased PVN synaptic innervation during hypertension. Moreover, they point to an SFO insulin receptor‐NELL2 network that may be involved in Ang‐II hypertension development, potentially via reorganization of SFO to PVN synaptic circuits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Ligularia fischeri is a perennial herb isolated from plants of the Asteraceae family. Ligularia fischeri is distributed throughout Korea, Japan, eastern Siberia, and China. Aims: The aim of this study is to examine the intracellular inhibitory effect of Ligularia fischeri ethanol extract on melanin synthesis and expression of tyrosinase and tyrosinase‐related protein 1 and 2. In addition, we analyzed the mitogen‐activated protein kinase signaling pathway and microphthalmia‐associated transcription factor in alpha‐melanocyte‐stimulating hormone‐stimulated B16F10 melanoma cells. Methods: To assess the inhibition of melanogenesis in alpha‐melanocyte‐stimulating hormone‐stimulated B16F10 melanoma cells, the expression of melanogenesis‐related genes was investigated by quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction, while western blotting was performed to determine protein expression levels. Results: We confirmed that the ethanol extract of Ligularia fischeri inhibited melanin synthesis in vitro by decreasing tyrosinase and tyrosinase‐related protein 1 and 2 expression. Furthermore, we revealed that tyrosinase expression was regulated by the suppression of microphthalmia‐associated transcription factor expression and activation of extracellular signal‐regulated kinase phosphorylation. The ethanol extract of Ligularia fischeri inhibited melanogenesis by activating extracellular signal‐regulated kinase phosphorylation and suppressing microphthalmia‐associated transcription factor and tyrosinase expression. Conclusions: Ligularia fischeri ethanol extract may be used as an effective skin whitening agent in functional cosmetics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Compensation topologies of the inductive power transfer (IPT) converter for electric vehicles (EVs) have been researched in previous works. However, a methodology for designing a compensation topology based on the efficiency of the IPT converter has been barely discussed. This paper proposes an optimal design methodology for compensation parameters to achieve optimal efficiency of the IPT converter with LCC-S. The optimal output voltage is derived using the losses analysis of the IPT converter, and the IPT converter is designed for the optimal output voltage to achieve the optimal efficiency. Furthermore, the battery management (BM) converter on the receiving side is designed based on the output voltage of the IPT converter, the fluctuation range of the coupling coefficient, and the battery charging voltage. The validity of the proposed IPT converter design methodology is verified by designing different compensation parameters and BM converters. The power rating of the three design cases is 3.3 kW with the same magnetic pads satisfying the SAE J2954 WPT 1 class. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Extinction increased c-Fos levels in the lateral habenula. • Extinction decreased c-Fos levels in the SNc/VTA. • Slower extinction in rats with lateral habenula lesions. Following the association of a neutral stimulus (conditioned stimulus, CS) with a biologically significant stimulus (unconditioned stimulus, US), CS-alone presentations generate extinction: a decline in the conditioned response. Many studies have revealed the neural substrates of fear extinction; however, a few have identified the brain regions responsible for appetitive extinction. Midbrain dopamine neurons are activated by presenting a reward or predictable reward cue, whereas the cue signaling the absence of reward activates the lateral habenula (LHb) neurons. We examined the engagement of the LHb in appetitive extinction. In the first phase, rats first received pairings of a CS (light) with US delivery (food pellets). In the second phase, rats in the CS-alone group underwent four CS-alone presentations, whereas those in the paired group received four pairings of light with food pellets. We also included a comparison group for CS-alone presentations: rats were placed in the training box without CS or US exposures in the first phase and received four CS-alone presentations in the second phase. Thirty minutes after the second phase, c-Fos levels in the ventral tegmental area (VTA), substantia nigra pars compacta (SNc), and LHb in these groups were measured. c-Fos levels in the LHb were higher in the paired-CS-alone group than in the paired-paired and comparison groups, while those in the VTA and SNc were significantly higher in the paired-paired group than in the other groups. On examination of LHb neurotoxic lesion effects on the decline of conditioned food-cup responses when a CS was repeatedly presented with no US, LHb lesions decelerated the decline in conditioned food-cup responses, suggesting a crucial role of LHb in appetitive extinction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Although osteoarthritis (OA) development is epidemiologically multifactorial, a primary underlying mechanism is still under debate. Understanding the pathophysiology of OA remains challenging. Recently, experts have focused on autophagy as a contributor to OA development. Method: To better understand the pathogenesis of OA, we survey the literature on the role of autophagy and the molecular mechanisms of OA development. To identify relevant studies, we used controlled vocabulary and free text keywords to search the MEDLINE, EMBASE, the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, Web of Science, and SCOPUS database. Thirty-one studies were included for data extraction and systematic review. Among these studies, twenty-five studies investigated the effects of autophagy in aging and OA chondrocytes, six studies examined the effects of autophagy in normal human chondrocytes, and only one study investigated the effects of mechanical stress-induced autophagy on the development of OA in normal chondrocytes. Results: The studies suggest that autophagy activation prevents OA by exerting cell-protective effects in normal human chondrocytes. However, in aging and osteoarthritis (OA) chondrocytes, the role of autophagy is intricate, as certain studies indicate that stimulating autophagy in these cells can have a cytotoxic effect, while others propose that it may have a protective (cytoprotective) effect against damage or degeneration. Conclusions: Mechanical stress-induced autophagy is also thought to be involved in the development of OA, but further research is required to identify the precise mechanism. Thus, autophagy contributions should be interpreted with caution in aging and the types of OA cartilage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Fabrication of a nitrogen-doped mesoporous carbon (NMC) on the pGF electrode. • NMC changes the structures and physicochemical properties of the pGF electrode. • NMC enables strong B r 2 / B r n + 2 - adsorption within the positive electrode. • NMC realizes a flowless zinc-bromine battery with superior performance and durability. The flowless zinc-bromine battery (FLZBB) is non-flammable as it is based on an aqueous electrolyte and is considered an alternative to redox flow batteries because of its cost-effectiveness using a simple cell platform. However, it faces challenges related to self-discharge caused by the crossover of bromine (Br 2) and polybromide anions (B r n + 2 -) formed at the positive electrode during the charging process. The self-discharge reaction consumes the charging active materials, thereby decreasing battery performance and lifespan. To address the critical issues, this study introduces the development of a revolutionary positive electrode: a nitrogen-doped mesoporous carbon-coated thick graphite felt (NMC/GF). This positive electrode effectively suppresses the crossover of active materials and prevents the self-discharge reaction. The mesopores, strategically embedded with nitrogen sites, serve as a stronghold, capturing and immobilizing bromine and polybromide anions, significantly reducing their undesirable effects. Furthermore, we enhanced the electrochemical performance of the NMC/GF electrode by modifying it to be ultrahydrophilic. Abundant oxygen and nitrogen functional groups were incorporated onto the electrode, resulting in an amplified affinity with the aqueous electrolyte. This modification led to improved bromine redox reaction kinetics. Demonstrating an excellent Coulombic efficiency surpassing 96 % and an energy efficiency of over 76 % at a current density of 20 mA cm−2 with a high-rate areal capacity of 2 mAh cm−2, this novel positive electrode achieves a previously unattained milestone; cyclability unprecedentedly extended to 10,000 cycles. The development of NMC/GF positive electrodes further advances the FLZBB system, and large-area scale-up research of these carbon electrodes makes looking forward to practical uses in energy storage systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Peroxiredoxin 2 (Prx2) regulates oxidative stress response in neuronal injury. The present study examined the effects of Prx2 deletion on transient global ischemia-induced hippocampal-dependent memory impairment. First, 20-min bilateral common carotid artery occlusion (BCCAO)-reperfusion and sham-operated control procedures were conducted in 6- or 7-month-old Prx2 knockout and wild-type mice. The cognitive status of these mice was assessed using the Morris water maze task with a hidden platform and a novel object recognition task 7 days after the 20-min BCCAO. Next, to evaluate neuronal degeneration and oxidative stress in the CA1 subregion of the hippocampus critical for learning and memory, we measured immunoreactive Fluoro-jade C (FJC)-positive signals and 4-hydroxy-2- trans -nonenal (4-HNE) levels, respectively. The 20-min BCCAO induced cognitive impairments and increased the intensity of FJC-positive signals and 4-HNE levels of CA1 in Prx2 knockout mice but not in wild-type mice. These results suggest that Prx2 deficiency reduces resilience to transient global ischemia. • Effects of Prx2 deletion on the transient BCCAO-induced hippocampal impairments. • Impaired recognition memory in Prx2 knockout mice with transient BCCAO. • Impaired spatial memory in Prx2 knockout mice with transient BCCAO. • Increased oxidative stress in Prx2 knockout mice with transient BCCAO. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Variations in the coupling coefficient of loosely coupled transformers and dynamic loads have a significant impact on the overall performance of bidirectional inductive power transfer (BIPT) systems. However, a wide range of load and coupling coefficient variations are common in the actual charging process, which may cause the converter on both sides to operate in a hard switching state, resulting in switching noise, reduced efficiency, and potential safety concerns. In this paper, a triple-phase-shift control (TPSC) strategy is proposed to study the zero-voltage switching (ZVS) operating range and constant-voltage output (CVO) characteristics of the double-side-LCC (DS-LCC) topology. To ensure a CVO over the wide range of coupling coefficient variations, a dual-phase-shift control is introduced for AC voltage matching. Based on this, the third phase-shift angle control between the converters on both sides is introduced to ensure the ZVS realization. Meanwhile, the time-domain model is developed to analyze the rationality of the proposed third phase-shift angle and the ZVS operating range. Finally, the effectiveness of the proposed TPSC strategy is validated through a 1.5 kW experimental prototype with an air gap of 100–150 mm. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Eukaryotic translation initiation factor 2α (eIF2α) is a key mediator of the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress–induced unfolded protein response (UPR). In mammals, eIF2α is phosphorylated by overnutrition-induced ER stress and is related to the development of obesity. Here, we studied the function of phosphorylated eIF2α (p-eIF2α) in agouti-related peptide (AgRP) neurons using a mouse model (AgRPeIF2αA/A) with an AgRP neuron–specific substitution from Ser 51 to Ala in eIF2α, which impairs eIF2α phosphorylation in AgRP neurons. These AgRPeIF2αA/A mice had decreases in starvation-induced AgRP neuronal activity and food intake and an increased responsiveness to leptin. Intriguingly, impairment of eIF2α phosphorylation produced decreases in the starvation-induced expression of UPR and autophagy genes in AgRP neurons. Collectively, these findings suggest that eIF2α phosphorylation regulates AgRP neuronal activity by affecting intracellular responses such as the UPR and autophagy during starvation, thereby participating in the homeostatic control of whole-body energy metabolism. Article Highlights: This study examines the impact of eukaryotic translation initiation factor 2α (eIF2α) phosphorylation, triggered by an energy deficit, on hypothalamic AgRP neurons and its subsequent influence on whole-body energy homeostasis. Impaired eIF2α phosphorylation diminishes the unfolded protein response and autophagy, both of which are crucial for energy deficit–induced activation of AgRP neurons. This study highlights the significance of eIF2α phosphorylation as a cellular marker indicating the availability of energy in AgRP neurons and as a molecular switch that regulates homeostatic feeding behavior. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Spinal–pelvic parameters are utilized in orthopedics for assessing patients' curvature and body alignment in diagnosing, treating, and planning surgeries for spinal and pelvic disorders. Segmenting and autodetecting the whole spine from lateral radiographs is challenging. Recent efforts have employed deep learning techniques to automate the segmentation and analysis of whole-spine lateral radiographs. This study aims to develop an artificial intelligence (AI)-based deep learning approach for the automated segmentation, alignment, and measurement of spinal–pelvic parameters through whole-spine lateral radiographs. We conducted the study on 932 annotated images from various spinal pathologies. Using a deep learning (DL) model, anatomical landmarks of the cervical, thoracic, lumbar vertebrae, sacrum, and femoral head were automatically distinguished. The algorithm was designed to measure 13 radiographic alignment and spinal–pelvic parameters from the whole-spine lateral radiographs. Training data comprised 748 digital radiographic (DR) X-ray images, while 90 X-ray images were used for validation. Another set of 90 X-ray images served as the test set. Inter-rater reliability between orthopedic spine specialists, orthopedic residents, and the DL model was evaluated using the intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC). The segmentation accuracy for anatomical landmarks was within an acceptable range (median error: 1.7–4.1 mm). The inter-rater reliability between the proposed DL model and individual experts was fair to good for measurements of spinal curvature characteristics (all ICC values > 0.62). The developed DL model in this study demonstrated good levels of inter-rater reliability for predicting anatomical landmark positions and measuring radiographic alignment and spinal–pelvic parameters. Automated segmentation and analysis of whole-spine lateral radiographs using deep learning offers a promising tool to enhance accuracy and efficiency in orthopedic diagnostics and treatments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study used the finite element method(FEM) to investigate how pressure on the lumbar spine changes during dynamic movements in different postures: standing, erect sitting on a chair, slumped sitting on a chair, and sitting on the floor. Three load modes (flexion, lateral bending, and axial rotation) were applied to the FEM, simulating movements of the lumbar spine. Results showed no significant difference in pressure distribution on the annulus fiber and nucleus pulposus, representing intradiscal pressure, as well as on the cortical bone during movements between standing and erect sitting postures. However, both slumped sitting on a chair and sitting on the floor postures significantly increased pressure on the nucleus pulposus, annulus fibrosus, and cortical bone in all three movements when compared to standing or erect sitting on a chair. Notably, sitting on the floor resulted in even higher pressure on the nucleus pulposus and annulus fibers compared to slumped sitting on a chair. The decreased lumbar lordosis while sitting on the floor led to the highest increase in pressure on the annulus fiber and nucleus pulposus in the lumbar spine. In conclusion, maintaining an erect sitting position with increased lumbar lordosis during seated activities can effectively reduce intradiscal pressure and cortical bone stress associated with degenerative disc diseases and spinal deformities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We evaluated the neuroprotective effect of L-theanine in Parkinson's disease and the underlying mechanism focusing on WNT/β-catenin signaling mediated by the MAPK pathway. We treated MPTP-induced SH-SY5Y cells with various concentrations of L-theanine (50, 100, 200, and 500 μg/mL), and we also treated Parkinson's model mice with L-theanine. L-theanine treatment effectively reduced the immunohistochemical hallmarks of Parkinson's disease, particularly Lewy bodies and α-synuclein, and increased the number of tyrosine hydroxylase-positive cells. L-theanine also improved the motor dysfunction in MPTP-induced Parkinson's disease model mice as measured by the rotarod test. The levels of several pro-inflammatory mediators that are overexpressed in Parkinson's disease, namely TNF-α, IL-6, COX-2, and MAC-1, were reduced following L-theanine treatment, and the levels of the pro-apoptotic proteins Bcl-2, caspase-3, p53, and PARP-1 were significantly reduced. L-theanine regulated the oxidative stress-related factors SOD-1, GST, and NOX-4 by targeting several proteins related to WNT/β-catenin signaling, i.e., β-catenin, WNT-3a, WNT-5a, TCF1/TCF7, and LEF1, via the MAPK pathway (p -JNK, p -ERK, and p -p38). Our results indicate that L-theanine is neuroprotective and has anti-inflammatory effects that could be beneficial for treating Parkinson's disease. L-Theanine facilitated the neuroprotective effect by mediating the Wnt/b-catenin signaling pathways. L-theanine has activated both Wnt/β-catenin signaling and the MAPK signaling pathways, subsequently downregulating the pro-inflammation, apoptosis, and oxidative stress mediators and enhancing the motor function. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Based on the unipolar-duty-cycle (UDC) modulation technique, this article presents a hybrid control strategy for a series–series compensated inductive power transfer (IPT) system. By adjusting the duty cycle and the operating frequency, zero-voltage switching (ZVS) and constant-current output (CCO) can be achieved with varying coupling coefficients and load. Furthermore, as the proposed strategy enables the IPT system to lower the frequency of operation, it provides higher efficiency in the overall output power range than the conventional variable-frequency control methods. The basic principle of the UDC control strategy and its characteristics are introduced, and the system performance under UDC is analyzed and compared with the performance achieved by conventional control methods. Based on this, the UDC closed-loop control scheme, which combines PI control and hysteresis control, is proposed for the dynamic tracking of the ZVS and the CCO under a wide range of coupling coefficients and load. To validate the practicability of the proposed control strategy, a 500-W experimental prototype is configured. The simulation and experimental results indicate that the proposed scheme can stably and accurately track the ZVS and the CCO under varying parameter conditions, and it significantly improves the system efficiency. Especially, the system efficiency is improved by approximately 1.75% under light-load conditions as compared with that of the conventional control method. In addition, since the proposed method employs only one control loop, the cost and complexity of the IPT system are reduced. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: Vibration training is an adjuvant to muscle-strengthening exercises. OBJECTIVE: To investigate the short-term effects of direct vibration on the deep trunk muscles of patients with non-specific chronic low back pain (CLBP). METHODS: Participants with non-specific CLBP were randomly placed into two groups: the vibration-plus stabilization exercise (VSE) group (n = 31) and the conventional stabilization exercise (CSE) group (n = 31). The groups underwent 12 sessions of an exercise program. The thickness and activity of the trunk muscles were measured using ultrasonography and surface electromyography. RESULTS: Ultrasonography revealed that the ratio of muscle thickness to contraction and relaxation was statistically increased after exercise in the bilateral transversus abdominis (TrA) and lumbar multifidus (LM) muscles in the CSE group (p = 0.031), and in the bilateral TrA, LM, and internal oblique (IO) muscles in the VSE group (p < 0.001). The LM/lumbar erector spinae (LES) ratio in the CSE group (p = 0.037), and the IO/rectus abdominis (RA), TrA/RA, and LM/LES ratios in the VSE group (p = 0.019) were statistically increased. Multiple regression analysis showed that symptom improvement was related to increased activity of the deep trunk muscles in the VSE group (p < 0.001). CONCLUSION: Direct vibration can increase the selective activity of contracting deep trunk muscles. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Leptocorisa (Hemiptera: Alydidae) species, which are pests to rice cultivation, have changed their habitats owing to climate change, suggesting the precautionary evaluation of the distribution of these pests. In this study, we targeted three major pests in Leptocorisa species (L. chinensis, L. acuta, and L. oratoria) and evaluated their potential distributions. Most of the recorded regions of the Leptocorisa species are consistent with the result of potential distributions predicted, and the model predicted that climate change would expand their habitats mostly under the effect of minimum temperature and precipitation varied by seasons. The potential distributions of three species were expected to cover major rice cultivation areas regardless of climate change, suggesting a necessity for establishing a sustainable control strategy for the pests. We targeted three major Leptocorisa species (L. chinensis, L. acuta, and L. oratoria) and evaluated their potential distributions using MaxEnt. The results showed that most Asian countries and northern Australia would be suitable for at least one of these pest species, and climate change will expand their habitat northward. All of the developed models were evaluated to be excellent with AUC, TSS, and OR10%. Most of the recorded regions of the Leptocorisa species are consistent with the result of potential distributions predicted in this study. The results confirmed that the minimum temperature of the coldest month mainly influences the three Leptocorisa species distributions. The potential distributions of the three species cover major rice cultivation areas regardless of climate change, suggesting that it would be necessary to establish a sustainable control strategy for the pests. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Four commercial gas diffusion layers (GDLs) are applied to high-temperature polymer electrolyte fuel cell anodes to investigate the relationship between microporous layer (MPL) properties and the performance of membrane electrode assembly. Subsequently, the physical properties such as the crack area and porosity of the MPL are analyzed via various methods. It is found that the capillary pressure of phosphoric acid (PA) from several theories is inversely related to the mass transfer capability (MTC) of the MPL. Finally, a new transport property named PA MTC of the MPL is proposed using the PA capillary pressure and MTC in MPL. The results indicate that the voltage at both low and high current densities increases separately as the PA MTC in the MPL adjusts to 0.5 MPa mm-1. Subsequently, the voltage beyond 0.5 MPa mm-1 increases in low current density contrary to the voltage at a high current density. • Anode GDLs are applied to high-temperature polymer electrolyte fuel cell. • The crack area of MPL has a high correlation with its porosity. • A new transport property called PA MTC in the MPL is proposed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aims to investigate the difference in physiological loading on the spine in three different motions (flexion–extension, lateral bending, and axial rotation) between osteoporotic and normal spines, using finite element modelling. A three-dimensional finite element (FE) model centered on the lumbar spine was constructed. We applied two different material properties of osteoporotic and normal spines. For the FE analysis, three loading conditions (flexion–extension, lateral bending, and axial rotation) were applied. The von Mises stress was higher on the nucleus pulposus at all vertebral levels in all movements, in the osteoporosis group than in the normal group. On the annulus fibrosus, the von Mises stress increased at the level of L3–L4, L4–L5, and L5–S in the flexion–extension group and at L4–L5 and L5–S levels in the lateral bending group. The values of two motions, flexion–extension and lateral bending, increased in the L4 and L5 cortical bones. In axial rotation, the von Mises stress increased at the level of L5 of cortical bone. Additionally, the von Mises stress increased in the lower endplate of L5–S and L4–L5 in all movements, especially lateral bending. Even in the group with no increase, there was a part that received increased von Mises stress locally for each element in the three-dimensional reconstructed view of the pressure distribution in color. The von Mises stress on the lumbar region in the three loading conditions, was greater in most components of osteoporotic vertebrae than in normal vertebrae and the value was highest in the nucleus pulposus. Considering the increase in the measured von Mises stress and the local increase in the pressure distribution, we believe that these results can contribute to explaining discogenic pain and degeneration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Kyphoplasty (KP) is a surgery used to reduce pain and increase stability by injecting medical bone cement into broken vertebrae. The purpose of this study was to determine the ideal amount of cement and injection site by analyzing forces with the finite element method. We modeled the anatomical structure of the vertebra and injected the cement at T12. By increasing the amount of cement from 1 cc to 22 cc, stress applied to T11 and L1 cortical was calculated. In addition, stress applied to the adjacent KP level was calculated with different injection sites (medial, anterosuperior, posterosuperior, anteroinferior, and posteroinferior). After 5 cc cement was inserted, adjacent end plate stress was analyzed. In this study, break point adjacent bone stress according to the capacity of cement was bimodal. Flexion/extension and lateral bending conditions showed similar break points (11.5–11.7 cc and 18.5–18.6 cc, respectively). When cement injection was changed, front under and back under had the highest stress values among various parts, whereas the center position showed the lowest stress value. With increasing amount of bone cement, stress on the upper and lower end plates of the cemented segment increased significantly. Thus, increasing cement amount to be more than 11.5 cc has a potential risk of adjacent fracture. Centrally injected bone cement can lower the risk of adjacent fracture after percutaneous KP. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The axial headless compression screw (AHCS) technique is a widely used method for distal interphalangeal joint (DIPJ) and thumb IPJ arthrodesis. However, it might not be suitable for cases over 10° flexion of fusion angle and extremely small-sized phalanx. Here, the authors describe the nonaxial multiple small screws (NMSS) technique, compare the mechanical strength of the NMSS technique with the AHCS technique, and suggest clinical outcomes of the NMSS technique.Methods: DIPJ and thumb IPJ arthrodesis models were simulated in the 4th generation composite bone hand. Fixation with three 1.5 mm cortical screws (NMSS) or one HCS (AHCS) was performed in each pair of the phalanx. The bending stiffness and load to failure were tested in 10 pairs of each specimen, and the torsional stiffness and torque to failure were tested in seven pairs of each specimen. Moreover, 15 consecutive clinical DIPJ and thumb IPJ arthrodesis cases were reviewed retrospectively.Results: The NMSS specimens showed significantly higher bending load to failure, torsional stiffness, and torque to failure than the AHCS specimens. All 15 arthrodesis cases were united without severe complications. The mean fusion angle was 16.3° for the nine cases of the flexed target position.Conclusions: The NMSS technique showed biomechanical stability comparable to that of the AHCS technique in DIPJ and thumb IPJ arthrodesis. Thus, the NMSS technique could be used as a feasible option in DIPJ and thumb IPJ arthrodesis, especially when a small finger is indicated and a significant flexion angle is required. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To compare the outcomes of early (within 1 month after foot drop) decompression versus late (1 month or more after foot drop) decompression in order to determine the optimal surgical intervention timing for lumbar degenerative diseases. Methods: The MEDLINE, EMBASE, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, Web of Science and SCOPUS electronic databases were searched for relevant articles published until May 2021 were conducted. Cochrane Collaboration guidelines were used for data extraction and quality assessment. Outcomes of interest were manual muscle testing (MMT) and recovery rate (MMT ≥ 4) for foot drop in lumbar degenerative diseases. Results: Six clinical studies were retrieved, including 312 randomized participants. One hundred fifty-seven patients underwent early decompression surgery, and 155 underwent late decompression surgery. There were significant differences between the two groups in recovery rate (95% confidence interval [CI] 1.59, 2.57) and neurological improvement (95% confidence interval [CI] 0.21, 1.66). Early surgical decompression provided better recovery rate and neurological improvement for foot drop in lumbar degenerative diseases than late surgical decompression. Conclusion: Early surgical decompression within was beneficial in terms of recovery rate and neurological improvement compared with late surgery. Early surgical decompression (within 1 month) is recommended for patients with foot drop in lumbar degenerative diseases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Replantation of multilevel amputation of the hand requires considerable hospital resources, and the surgical outcomes in older adults have not been described in detail. Thus, replantation for this injury was mostly confined to young patients. Here, we describe the case of a 63-year-old patient with multilevel amputation of the hand in whom replantation surgery was successful with grasp and pinch functions by the last follow-up. We report the clinical, functional, and patient-reported outcomes and discuss the indications. As the patient transfer system and communication technology develops, more patients will arrive at hospitals in a critical time for replantation. Accordingly, hand surgeons should consider offering replantation option for multilevel amputation after evaluating the indications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tailgut cyst, known as retrorectal cystic hamartoma, is a rare congenital lesion derived from the remnants of the embryological tailgut. It is usually located in presacral or retrorectal space. We report the first case of a tailgut cyst presented as an intraperitoneal tumor. In this paper, we present one patient who has undergone surgical excision of tailgut cyst. A 33-year-old woman with no symptoms underwent laparoscopic tumor excision for the definite diagnosis and treatment for a left-sided, cystic, and pelvic mass in computerized tomography (CT). The initial diagnosis was left ovarian benign tumor by radiologic study. Histologic findings revealed a tailgut cyst. After surgery, she was discharged after 3 days without any complications. We report an unusual case of tailgut cyst located in intraperitoneal space. Although it is extremely rare for a tailgut cyst to occur in the intraperitoneal area, physicians may consider tailgut cyst in differential diagnosis of an intraperitoneal cystic mass. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Distal interphalangeal joint arthrodesis with nonaxial multiple small screws: a biomechanical analysis with axial headless compression screw and clinical result of 15 consecutive cases. The online version of the original article can be found at https://doi.org/10.1186/s12891-022-05473-9. [Extracted from the article]

The development of osteoarthritis (OA), the most common form of arthritis, is commonly associated with oxidative stress. Indeed, the lack of antioxidant responses largely increases OA incidence. OA is a leading cause of disability in the elderly, which reduces the quality of life and places high socioeconomic burdens on them. Several polyphenolic compounds, including chlorogenic acid (CGA), have shown cytoprotective effects via their antioxidant activity, but the exact mechanism (s) remain elusive. In this study, we demonstrated how CGA protects human chondrocytes against H 2 O 2 -induced apoptosis. The cytoprotective effect by CGA in 500 μM hydrogen peroxide-treated C28/I2 cells was evaluated by cell viability, TUNEL assay, and Western blotting analyses, and autophagy assessment was further performed by AO and MDC staining and tandem mRFP-GFP fluorescence analyses. Treatment of CGA to the human chondrocytes under oxidative stress significantly decreased apoptosis markers, such as cleaved caspase 3 and cleaved PARP, and increased anti-apoptotic marker Bcl-xL and the antioxidant response proteins NRF2 and NF-κB. Furthermore, CGA-dependent activation of antioxidant response proteins NRF2 and NF-κB and its protective effects in chondrocytes depended on autophagy. Indeed, CGA treatment and autophagy induction significantly decreased reactive oxygen species (ROS)–induced apoptosis. CGA exhibited the protective effect to human chondrocyte C28/I2 cells against oxidative stress-induced cell death by activating autophagy. These findings indicate that CGA is a potential therapeutic agent for the development of OA drugs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]