Cancer-associated fibroblasts-secreted exosomal miR-92a-3p promotes tumor growth and stemness in hepatocellular carcinoma through activation of Wnt/ß-catenin signaling pathway by suppressing AXIN1.

Cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) are a major cellular component in the tumor microenvironment and have been shown to exhibit protumorigenic effects in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). This study aimed to delve into the mechanisms underlying the tumor-promoting effects of CAFs in HCC. Small RNA sequencing was conducted to screen differential expressed microRNAs in exosomes derived from CAFs and normal fibroblasts (NFs). The miR-92a-3p expression was then measured using reverse transcriptase quantitative real-time PCR in CAFs, NFs, CAFs-derived exosomes (CAFs-Exo), and NF-derived exosomes (NFs-Exo). Compared to NFs or NF-Exo, CAFs and CAFs-Exo significantly promoted HCC cell proliferation, migration, and stemness. Additionally, compared to NFs or NF-Exo, miR-92a-3p level was notably higher in CAFs and CAFs-Exo, respectively. Exosomal miR-92a-3p was found to enhance HCC cell proliferation, migration, and stemness. Meanwhile, AXIN1 was targeted by miR-92a-3p. Exosomal miR-92a-3p could activate ß-catenin/CD44 signaling in HCC cells by inhibiting AXIN1 messenger RNA. Furthermore, in vivo studies verified that exosomal miR-92a-3p notably promoted tumor growth and stemness through targeting AXIN1/ß-catenin axis. Collectively, CAFs secreted exosomal miR-92a-3p was capable of promoting growth and stemness in HCC through activation of Wnt/ß-catenin signaling pathway by suppressing AXIN1. Therefore, targeting CAFs-derived miR-92a-3p may be a potential strategy for treating HCC.

Release or transection of superficial medial collateral ligament during open-wedge high tibial osteotomy demonstrated similar clinical outcomes and valgus laxity.

PURPOSE: To analyse whether valgus laxity and clinical outcomes differ depending on whether the superficial medial collateral ligament (sMCL) is released or transected during medial open-wedge high tibial osteotomy (MOWHTO). METHODS: Consecutive patients who underwent MOWHTO and subsequent radiological follow-up for at least 2 years were retrospectively evaluated. The patients were divided into release and transection groups, according to the sMCL manipulation technique. Each patient was assessed for the following variables on valgus stress radiographs taken before surgery and at the 12- and 24-month follow-ups: the absolute value of valgus (ABV) and side-to-side difference (SSD) between the affected and normal sides. The differences between preoperative SSD and those at 12 and 24 months were respectively calculated and defined as delta SSD (ΔSSD). The Visual Analogue Scale, Lysholm knee, International Knee Documentation Committee subjective, and Knee Injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome scores were used to evaluate patient-reported outcomes. RESULTS: Eighty-five patients were included in the study. Forty-two patients (49.6%) underwent sMCL release, and the remaining 43 patients (50.4%) underwent sMCL transection. No significant differences were observed in the ABV and SSD of valgus laxity at the different time points between the two groups (n.s.). Furthermore, no significant differences were observed in the ΔSSD at the 12- and 24-month follow-ups between the two groups (n.s.). Significant improvement from preoperative values was observed in all patient-reported outcomes (p < 0.001), with no significant differences between the two groups at any time point (n.s.). CONCLUSION: Significant improvements in clinical outcomes were observed, regardless of the technique used. Postoperative valgus laxity did not occur with either technique. The transection technique, which can be performed more simply and quickly, demonstrated similar clinical outcomes and valgus laxity to the release technique. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level III.

Patellofemoral joint cartilage lesions frequently develop shortly after anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction using hamstring tendon autograft: A systematic review.

PURPOSE: This study aimed to investigate the development of patellofemoral joint (PFJ) cartilage lesions following anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR) using hamstring tendon (HT) autograft through a systematic review. METHODS: A comprehensive search was conducted in PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library and Google Scholar databases to find articles published from database inception until 15 November 2023. The search terms were [('Anterior Cruciate Ligament' [mesh] OR 'anterior cruciate ligament' OR 'ACL') AND 'reconstruction' AND 'cartilage' AND ('second look arthroscopy' OR 'second-look arthroscopy' OR 'MRI' OR 'magnetic resonance imaging')]. Inclusion criteria were studies that reported on the occurrence of PFJ cartilage lesions following ACLR using HT autograft, as determined by second-look arthroscopy or follow-up magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). RESULTS: Fifteen studies (1084 patients) met the inclusion criteria, with follow-up periods ranging from 1 to 5 years. In the results of second-look arthroscopy, cartilage grade deterioration was observed, ranging from MDs of 0.1 to 2.0 in the patella and from 0 to 1.0 in the trochlea. Follow-up MRI results reported the incidence of PFJ cartilage degeneration with rates ranging from 20% to 44%. Patient-reported outcome measures often showed no significant association with PFJ cartilage lesions. The studies included in this review reported various risk factors for cartilage lesion development. CONCLUSION: Cartilage lesions in the PFJ, detected using second-look arthroscopy or follow-up MRI, frequently develop shortly after ACLR using HT autograft. At this stage, patients might not show specific symptoms; however, those with risk factors require careful observation and evaluation by clinicians during follow-up. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level IV.

Implantation of hUCB-MSCs generates greater hyaline-type cartilage than microdrilling combined with high tibial osteotomy.

PURPOSE: To compare the outcomes of treating large cartilage defects in knee osteoarthritis using human allogeneic umbilical cord blood-derived mesenchymal stem cell (hUCB-MSC) implantation or arthroscopic microdrilling as a supplementary cartilage regenerative procedure combined with high tibial osteotomy (HTO). METHODS: This 1-year prospective comparative study included 25 patients with large, near full-thickness cartilage defects (International Cartilage Repair Society grade ≥ IIIB) in the medial femoral condyles and varus malalignment. Defects were treated with hUCB-MSC implantation or arthroscopic microdrilling combined with HTO. The primary outcomes were pain visual analogue scale and International Knee Documentation Committee subjective scores at 12, 24 and 48 weeks. Secondary outcomes included arthroscopic, histological and magnetic resonance imaging assessments at 1 year. RESULTS: Fifteen and 10 patients were treated via hUCB-MSC implantation and microdrilling, respectively. Baseline demographics, limb alignment and clinical outcomes did not significantly differ between the groups. Cartilage defects and total restored areas were significantly larger in the hUCB-MSC group (7.2 ± 1.9 vs. 5.2 ± 2.1 cm2, p = 0.023; 4.5 ± 1.4 vs. 3.0 ± 1.6 cm2, p = 0.035). The proportion of moderate-to-strong positive type II collagen staining was significantly higher in the hUCB-MSC group compared to that in the microdrilled group (93.3% vs. 60%, respectively). Rigidity upon probing resembled that of normal cartilage tissue more in the hUCB-MSC group (86.7% vs. 50.0%, p = 0.075). Histological findings revealed a higher proportion of hyaline cartilage in the group with implanted hUCB-MSC (p = 0.041). CONCLUSION: hUCB-MSC implantation showed comparable clinical outcomes to those of microdrilling as supplementary cartilage procedures combined with HTO in the short term, despite the significantly larger cartilage defect in the hUCB-MSC group. The repaired cartilage after hUCB-MSC implantation showed greater hyaline-type cartilage with rigidity than that after microdrilling. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level II, Prospective Comparative Cohort Study.

Preoperative joint line obliquity, a newly identified factor for overcorrection, can be incorporated into a novel preoperative planning method to optimise alignment in high tibial osteotomy.

PURPOSE: The aim of this study was to analyse the factors associated with additional postoperative alignment changes after accurate bony correction by selecting only patients with well-performed bony correction as planned and develop a method of incorporating significant factors into preoperative planning. METHODS: Among 104 consecutive patients who underwent medial open wedge high tibial osteotomy (MOWHTO) between October 2019 and July 2022, 61 with well-performed bony corrections were retrospectively reviewed. The major criterion for well-performed bony correction was a difference of <1° between the simulated medial proximal tibial angle (MPTA) and the actual postoperative MPTA as measured in three dimensions. Radiographic parameters, such as the joint line convergence angle (JLCA) and joint line obliquity (JLO), were measured preoperatively and postoperatively, utilising standing and supine whole lower extremity anteroposterior, valgus and varus stress radiographs. Multiple linear regression analysis identified the factors affecting alignment changes, and a prediction model was developed. A method for applying this prediction model to preoperative planning was proposed. RESULTS: Preoperative JLCA on standing (preJLCAstd ), preoperative JLCA on 0° valgus stress radiograph (vgJLCA0 ), and preoperative JLO (preJLO) were significantly correlated with JLCA change (∆JLCA) (p < 0.001, p < 0.001, p = 0.006). The prediction model was estimated as ∆JLCA = 0.493 × (vgJLCA0 ) - 0.727 × (preJLCAstd ) + 0.189 × (preJLO) - 1.587 in. (R = 0.815, modified R2 = 0.646, p < 0.001). The proposed method resulted in a reduced overcorrection rate (p = 0.003) and an improved proportion of acceptable alignments (p = 0.013). CONCLUSION: PreJLCAstd , vgJLCA0  and preJLO can be used to estimate ∆JLCA. PreJLO was recently identified as a significant factor associated with additional alignment changes. Utilising the proposed preoperative planning and a prediction model with these factors shows promise in calibrating postoperative alignment after MOWHTO. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level III, retrospective cohort study.

MTD-Diorama: Moving Target Defense Visualization Engine for Systematic Cybersecurity Strategy Orchestration.

With the advancement in information and communication technology, modern society has relied on various computing systems in areas closely related to human life. However, cyberattacks are also becoming more diverse and intelligent, with personal information and human lives being threatened. The moving target defense (MTD) strategy was designed to protect mission-critical systems from cyberattacks. The MTD strategy shifted the paradigm from passive to active system defense. However, there is a lack of indicators that can be used as a reference when deriving general system components, making it difficult to configure a systematic MTD strategy. Additionally, even when selecting system components, a method to confirm whether the systematic components are selected to respond to actual cyberattacks is needed. Therefore, in this study, we surveyed and analyzed existing cyberattack information and MTD strategy research results to configure a component dataset. Next, we found the correlation between the cyberattack information and MTD strategy component datasets and used this to design and implement the MTD-Diorama data visualization engine to configure a systematic MTD strategy. Through this, researchers can conveniently identify the attack surface contained in cyberattack information and the MTD strategies that can respond to each attack surface. Furthermore, it will allow researchers to configure more systematic MTD strategies that can be used universally without being limited to specific computing systems.

Medial Meniscus Posterior Root Tear: How Far Have We Come and What Remains?

Medial meniscus posterior root tears (MMRTs), defined as tears or avulsions that occur within 1 cm of the tibial attachment of the medial meniscus posterior root, lead to biomechanically detrimental knee conditions by creating a functionally meniscal-deficient status. Given their biomechanical significance, MMRTs have recently been gaining increasing interest. Accordingly, numerous studies have been conducted on the anatomy, biomechanics, clinical features, diagnosis, and treatment of MMRTs, and extensive knowledge has been accumulated. Although a consensus has not yet been reached on several issues, such as surgical indications, surgical techniques, and rehabilitation protocols, this article aimed to comprehensively review the current knowledge on MMRTs and to introduce the author's treatment strategies.

Applicability evaluation of a demand-controlled ventilation system in livestock.

The distribution of agricultural and livestock products has been limited owing to the recent rapid population growth and the COVID-19 pandemic; this has led to an increase in the demand for food security. The livestock industry is interested in increasing the growth performance of livestock that has resulted in the need for a mechanical ventilation system that can create a comfortable indoor environment. In this study, the applicability of demand-controlled ventilation (DCV) to energy-efficient mechanical ventilation control in a pigsty was analyzed. To this end, an indoor temperature and CO2 concentration prediction model was developed, and the indoor environment and energy consumption behavior based on the application of DCV control were analyzed. As a result, when DCV control was applied, the energy consumption was smaller than that of the existing control method; however, when it was controlled in an hourly time step, the increase in indoor temperature was large, and several sections exceeded the maximum temperature. In addition, when it was controlled in 15-min time steps, the increase in indoor temperature and energy consumption decreased; however, it was not energy efficient on days with high-outdoor temperature and pig heat.

Predictors of a placebo response in patients with hand osteoarthritis: post-hoc analysis of two randomized controlled trials.

BACKGROUND: Placebo can have a significant therapeutic effect in patients with hand osteoarthritis (OA). This aim of the study is to identify factors associated with a clinically meaningful placebo response in patients with hand OA. METHODS: This post-hoc analysis of two double-blind, placebo-controlled, randomized trials (RCTs) investigating the efficacy of GCSB-5 or diacerein as treatments for hand OA analyzed the efficacy of a placebo. Clinical and laboratory factors associated with a clinically meaningful response, defined as an improvement in the Australian/Canadian Osteoarthritis Hand Index (AUSCAN) pain score > 10 at 4 weeks relative to baseline, were identified. RESULTS: The mean improvement in the AUSCAN pain score was - 6.0 ± 20.3, with marked variation between 143 hand OA patients (range: - 76.4 to 33.2). A clinically meaningful improvement was observed in 54 (37.8%) patients. Placebo responders had worse AUSCAN pain scores (55.7 ± 19.7 vs. 43.6 ± 21.6, p = 0.001) and a worse AUSCAN stiffness (68.2 ± 20.5 vs. 57.5 ± 24.5, p = 0.008) at baseline than non-responders. Improvements in pain correlated with the baseline pain level (Pearson r = - 427, p < 0.001). Structural joint changes such as tender, swollen, enlarged, or deformed joint counts did not differ between placebo responders and non-responders. In a multivariable analysis, only baseline AUSCAN pain was associated with a clinically meaningful placebo response (OR: 1.054, 95% CI [1.019-1.089], p = 0.002). CONCLUSIONS: High levels of pain at baseline are predictive of a clinically meaningful placebo response in patients with hand OA. Further studies are needed to optimize and utilize the benefit of placebo responses in patients with hand OA.

A novel one arm motorized walker for hemiplegic stroke survivors: a feasibility study.

BACKGROUND: A hemiplegic stroke survivor with a moderate to severe gait disturbance may have difficulty walking using a one-arm walker. This study aimed to test the safety and feasibility of a prototype one-arm motorized walker that uses a power-driven device to provide gait assistance to hemiplegic stroke survivors with moderate to severe gait disturbances. METHODS: A one-arm motorized walker with a power-driven device was developed and tested with respect to 10 distinct variables, including weight, degrees of freedom, handle, handle substitution function, two-sided use function, variable handle height, redirecting function, electric moving parts through the handle control, brake function using the handle control, folding chairs, and design stability. Its safety and feasibility were tested in 19 hemiplegic stroke individuals using the Likert scale and a simple interview. RESULTS: The walker consists of a frame platform including a handle, electric motor for driving, one wheel for driving, two wheels for turning, unlocking sensor, driving button, and turning buttons. The walker is programmed so that a touch sensor in the handle can unlock the locking system. Furthermore, it is programmed so that a user can propel it by pushing the handle downward or pressing a button and can control directions for turning right or left by pressing buttons. Safety and performance testing was achieved for 10 separate variables, and a Likert scale score of 3.5 of 5 was recorded. CONCLUSION: This walker's novel design was developed for hemiplegic stroke survivors with moderate to severe gait disturbances. Our findings indicate that the walker is both safe and feasible for providing walking assistance to hemiplegic stroke survivors and establish the potential advantages of the one-arm motorized walker.

Influence of light touch using the fingertips on postural stability of poststroke patients.

[Purpose] The purpose of this study was to investigate the influence of fingertip light touch on the postural control in poststroke patients. [Subjects] In the study, the subjects were recruited through a rehabilitation hospital, and 21 patients were screened from among 30 volunteers. [Methods] The subjects participated in an experiment that measured postural sway during the static standing posture without light touch and postural sway during the static standing posture with light touch as follows: visual information not blocked without light touch, visual information blocked without light touch, visual information blocked with light touch using fingertips, and visual information not blocked with light touch using fingertips. The measurements were performed using a force platform. The variables measured by the force platform included sway velocities of the COP in the anterior and posterior directions and, medial and lateral directions and sway velocity moments. [Results] In the results of the study, there were significant differences between the state without light touch and state with light touch in terms of the postural sway velocity and velocity moment under all conditions. The rate of decease of the sway velocity and moment velocity under the eyes closed condition were higher compared with those under the eyes open condition. [Conclusion] Through this study, we confirmed the influence of fingertip light touch on the decrease in postural sway. The results show that active light touch may be supplemental means of improving postural sway in stroke patients.

Effects of concurrent cartilage procedures on cartilage regeneration in high tibial osteotomy: a systematic review.

PURPOSE: This systematic review aimed to evaluate the effects of concurrent cartilage procedures on cartilage regeneration when performed alongside high tibial osteotomy (HTO). MATERIALS AND METHODS: The systematic review followed the guidelines outlined in the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis (PRISMA). A comprehensive search was conducted on databases including PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, and Google Scholar, covering articles published until August 31, 2023. RESULTS: Sixteen studies (1277 patients) revealed that HTO, with or without concurrent cartilage procedures, leads to cartilage regeneration based on the International Cartilage Repair Society (ICRS) grade during second-look arthroscopy. No concurrent procedure showed improvement in ICRS grade (mean difference: - 0.80 to - 0.49). Microfracture (mean difference: - 0.75 to - 0.22), bone marrow aspirate concentrate (BMAC) (mean difference: - 1.37 to - 0.67), and human umbilical cord blood-derived mesenchymal stem cell (hUCB-MSC) (mean difference: - 2.46 to - 1.81) procedures also demonstrated positive outcomes. Clinical outcome assessments for each cartilage procedure were also improved during postoperative follow-up, and no specific complications were reported. CONCLUSIONS: HTO with or without concurrent cartilage procedures promotes cartilage regeneration observed during second-look arthroscopy, with improved clinical outcomes. Future randomized controlled trials on the same topic, along with subsequent meta-analyses, are necessary for conclusive findings.

Allogeneic umbilical cord blood-derived mesenchymal stem cell implantation versus microdrilling combined with high tibial osteotomy for cartilage regeneration.

This study compared cartilage regeneration outcomes in knee osteoarthritis (OA) using allogeneic human umbilical cord blood-derived mesenchymal stem cell (hUCB-MSC) implantation and microdrilling with high tibial osteotomy (HTO). Fifty-four patients (60 knees) were included: 24 (27 knees) in the hUCB-MSC group and 30 (33 knees) in the microdrilling group. Both groups showed significant improvements in pain and functional scores at 6, 12, and 24 months compared to baseline. At 24 months, the hUCB-MSC group had significantly improved scores. Arthroscopic assessment at 12 months revealed better cartilage healing in the hUCB-MSC group. In subgroup analysis according to the defect site, hUCB-MSC implantation showed superior cartilage healing for anterior lesions. In conclusion, both treatments demonstrated effectiveness for medial OA. However, hUCB-MSC implantation had better patient-reported outcomes and cartilage regeneration than microdrilling. The study suggests promising approaches for cartilage restoration in large knee defects due to OA.

Factors Causing Unintended Sagittal and Axial Alignment Changes in High Tibial Osteotomy: Comparative 3-Dimensional Analysis of Simulation and Actual Surgery.

BACKGROUND: Unintended secondary changes in the posterior tibial slope (PTS) and tibial torsion angle (TTA) may occur after medial open-wedge high tibial osteotomy (MOWHTO). In surgical procedures using patient-specific instruments (PSIs), it is essential to reproduce the PTS and TTA that were planned in simulations. PURPOSE: To analyze the factors causing unintended sagittal and axial alignment changes after MOWHTO. STUDY DESIGN: Case series; Level of evidence, 4. METHODS: Overall, 63 patients (70 knees) who underwent MOWHTO using a PSI between June 2020 and June 2023 were retrospectively reviewed. Preoperative and postoperative computed tomography scans were 3-dimensionally reconstructed. Simulated osteotomy was performed so that the weightbearing line could pass through the target point. A PSI gapper was 3-dimensionally printed to fit the posteromedial corner of the osteotomy gap in the simulated HTO model. After MOWHTO using the PSI gapper, the actual postoperative model was compared with the preoperative or simulation model. This assessment included PTS, TTA, hinge axis, and osteotomy-related parameters. Cortical breakage around the lateral hinge was evaluated to assess stability. RESULTS: The mean PTS and TTA did not change in the simulation. However, significant changes were observed in the actual postoperative PTS and TTA (change, -2.4°± 2.2° and -3.9°± 4.7°, respectively). The PTS was reduced, while the TTA decreased with internal rotation of the distal fragment. The difference in the axial hinge axis angle (AHA) between the simulation and actual surgery was the factor most correlated with the difference in the PTS (r = 0.625; P < .001). In regression analysis, the difference in the AHA was the only factor associated with the difference in the PTS (ß = 0.558; P = .001), and there were no factors that showed any significant associations with the difference in the TTA. In subgroup analyses for the change in the TTA, the correction angle and anterior osteotomy angle were significantly higher in the more internal rotation group (P = .023 and P = .010, respectively). The TTA change was significantly higher in the unstable group with lateral cortical breakage (P = .018). The unstable group was more likely to show an internal rotation of ≥5° (odds ratio, 5.0; P = .007). CONCLUSION: The AHA was associated with a difference in the PTS between the simulation and actual surgery. The change in the TTA was caused by a combination of multiple factors, such as a large correction angle and anterior osteotomy angle, but mainly by instability of the lateral cortical hinge.

Combined Anterolateral Ligament Reconstruction Results in Better Knee Stability and More Satisfactory Subjective Outcomes in Non-Athlete Patients Undergoing Revision Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction.

Background: Consensus has not yet been reached regarding combined anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ALLR) with revisional anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (RACLR). We aimed to compare the clinical outcomes between patients who underwent isolated RACLR and those who underwent RACLR combined with ALLR. Methods: Between June 2010 and June 2021, 49 patients who underwent RACLR were retrospectively reviewed over a 24-month follow-up. Patients were categorized into the isolated RACLR (n = 37, group 1) or combined ALLR group (n = 12, group 2). Clinical outcomes were evaluated with several patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) and minimal clinically important differences (MCIDs) for each PROM. The side-to-side difference (SSD) of the anterior instability was measured. The pivot-shift test was performed. Results: Baseline characteristics showed no differences between the groups. PROMs showed no significant differences between the groups at the 2-year follow-up. Group 2 was superior to group 1 in the MCID achievement rate for Lysholm knee and International Knee Documentation Committee (IKDC) subjective scores at 24 months postoperatively. At the final follow-up, the proportion of IKDC grade A in SSD for anterior laxity was higher in group 2 than in group 1 (58.3% versus [vs.] 18.3%, p = 0.009), and the proportion of pivot-shift grade 0 was also higher in group 2 (66.7% vs. 27.0%, p = 0.013). The "near return to activity" rate was also higher in group 2 than in group 1 (83.3% vs. 45.9%, p = 0.043). Conclusions: Combining ALLR with RACLR in non-athletes results in a higher proportion of patients with less mechanical graft failure and satisfactory clinical outcomes.

Sequential Comparison of Knee Muscle Strength after Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction between Hamstring Autograft and Tibialis Anterior Allograft: Propensity Score Matched Pair Analysis.

Among the graft options for anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR), hamstring autografts are widely regarded as the preferred choice for primary ACLR among orthopedic surgeons worldwide. However, concerns persist regarding postoperative knee flexor weakness. We aimed to compare knee extensor and flexor strengths between hamstring autograft and tibialis anterior allograft groups in ACLR patients, who were propensity score-matched based on baseline characteristics. A retrospective analysis included 58 matched pairs who underwent isokinetic strength tests at 6 and 12 months post operation. Isokinetic muscle strength tests found no significant difference in knee extensor and flexor strength at 6 months post operation between the hamstring autograft and tibial anterior allograft groups. At 12 months, the hamstring autograft group exhibited significantly greater knee flexor deficit (total work and average power) compared to the allograft group, despite no differences in extensor strength or patient-reported outcomes. This study highlights the impact of hamstring autograft harvesting on muscle strength and recovery following ACLR in short-term period.

Prognostic Factors for Clinical Outcome and Cartilage Regeneration after Implantation of Allogeneic Human Umbilical Cord Blood-Derived Mesenchymal Stem Cells in Large-Sized Cartilage Defects with Osteoarthritis.

OBJECTIVE: To analyze the prognostic factors for clinical outcomes and cartilage regeneration after the implantation of allogeneic human umbilical cord blood mesenchymal stem cell (hUCB-MSC) for treating large-sized cartilage defects with osteoarthritis. DESIGN: This study is a case-series with multiple subgroup analyses that divides the included patients into multiple subgroups based on various factors. Overall, 47 patients who underwent hUCB-MSC implantation were included. The patient-reported outcomes, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and second-look arthroscopy were used to assess the outcomes. RESULTS: Combined realignment surgery significantly correlated with clinical outcomes, particularly pain. No other factors significantly influenced the clinical outcomes in short-term period. Subgroups with large defect sizes or meniscal insufficiency showed significantly poor MRI and arthroscopy outcomes (MRI, P = 0.001, P = 0.001; arthroscopy, P = 0.032, P = 0.042). The logistic regression showed that patients with a 1 cm2 larger defect size were 1.91 times less likely to achieve favorable MRI outcomes (P = 0.017; odds ratio [OR], 1.91). Cut-off value to predict the poor outcome was >5.7 cm2 (area under the curve, 0.756). A cartilage defect size >5.7 cm2 was the major poor prognostic factor for cartilage regeneration on MRI (P = 0.010; OR, 17.46). If the postoperative alignment shifted by 1° opposite to the cartilage defect, it was 1.4 times more likely to achieve favorable MRI outcomes (P = 0.028; OR, 1.4). CONCLUSION: Combining realignment surgery showed a better prognosis for pain improvement. Cartilage defect size, meniscal function, and postoperative alignment are significant prognostic factors for cartilage regeneration. A cartilage defect size >5.7 cm2 was significantly related to poor cartilage regeneration.

Laryngoscopic Screening Before Revision Anterior Cervical Spine Surgery: Is Vocal Cord Palsy a Relevant Factor in Deciding the Approach Direction?

STUDY DESIGN: Retrospective study. OBJECTIVES: The aim was to evaluate the exact incidence of vocal cord palsy (VCP) caused by previous anterior cervical spine surgery (ACSS) and aid surgeons in deciding the approach direction in revision ACSS. SUMMARY OF BACKGROUND DATA: The incidence of VCP detected by preoperative laryngoscopic screening before revision ACSS appeared to be much higher in previous reports than in our experience. MATERIALS AND METHODS: We reviewed the data of 64 patients who underwent revision ACSS. Preoperative laryngoscopy was performed in all patients to detect VCP and/or structural abnormalities of the vocal cords. The patients' characteristics, laryngoscopy results, and symptoms before revision surgery that were potentially caused by previous recurrent laryngeal nerve injuries (voice change, foreign body sensation, and chronic aspiration) were recorded. RESULTS: Laryngoscopy demonstrated no complete VCP or decreased vocal cord motility. Eleven patients (17.2%) showed vocal cord-related symptoms and 13 patients (20.3%) showed abnormal laryngoscopic findings without VCP. Four patients (6.2%) showed vocal cord-related symptoms and abnormal laryngoscopic findings simultaneously. At the initial operative level, no significant differences in vocal cord-related symptoms were observed between the upper and lower levels (C3-4-5 vs. C5-6-7). However, the frequency of vocal cord-related symptoms was significantly high at the larger number of levels (≥3 segments) (P=0.010). CONCLUSIONS: In contrast to previous reports, this study demonstrated that VCP is rarely detected before revision ACSS. Therefore, deciding the approach direction with only vocal cord motility can be dangerous, and more attention is required in setting the approach direction in patients who show both vocal cord-related symptoms and abnormal laryngoscopic finding. In other cases, a contralateral approach which has a low risk of bilateral VCP could be utilized if necessary.

Donor-strain-derived immature dendritic cell pre-treatment induced hyporesponsiveness against allogeneic antigens.

The maturation of antigen-presenting dendritic cells (DCs) serves as an important determinant for the regulation of immunity, and overall immune response. We hypothesized that a reduced immune response to donor alloantigens and improved allograft survival could be induced by pre-treating recipients with bone-marrow-derived donor-strain fixed immature DCs (FIDCs). Donor-strain-derived mature and immature DCs were fixed before grafting to ensure that they possessed a stable immunogenic phenotype. The fixed mature DCs effectively induced allogeneic T-cell proliferation in recipients, whereas FIDCs were unable to elicit an allogeneic T-cell response. T cells that had previously been exposed to FIDCs maintained naïve phenotypes and were unable to extensively divide after injection into lethally irradiated donor-strain mice. The pre-treatment of recipients with donor-strain FIDCs markedly prolonged the survival of islet as well as skin allografts. However, T-cell hyporesponsiveness induced by FIDC injection was abrogated by the depletion of CD4(+) CD25(+) T cells. Consequently, FIDC-induced T-cell hyporesponsiveness could reflect anergy rather than specific deletion. Our findings suggest that FIDCs of donor strain could be used to induce long-term graft survival.

Dependences of the electrical properties on the diameter and the doping concentration of the Si nanowire field effect transistors with a Schottky metal-semiconductor contact.

A compact model of the current-voltage (I-V) characteristics for the Si nanowire field effect transistor (FET) taking into account dependence of the analytical electrical properties on the diameter and the concentration of the Si nanowire of the FETs with a Schottky metal-semiconductor contact has been proposed. I-V characteristics of the nanowire FETs were analytically calculated by using a quantum drift-diffusion current transport model taking into account an equivalent circuit together with the quantum effect of the Si nanowires and a Schottky model at Schottky barriers. The material parameters dependent on different diameters and concentrations of the Si nanowire were numerically estimated from the physical properties of the Si nanowire. The threshold voltage, the mobility, and the doping density of the Si nanowire and the Schottky barrier height at a metal-Si nanowire heterointerface in the nanowire FET were estimated by using the theoretical model.