A Natural Astragalus-Based Nutritional Supplement Lengthens Telomeres in a Middle-Aged Population: A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Study.

Telomeres are ribonucleoprotein structures that form a protective buffer at the ends of chromosomes, maintaining genomic integrity during the cell cycle. A decrease in average telomere length is associated with with age and with aging-related diseases such as cancer and cardiovascular disease. In this study, we conducted a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial over six months to compare the effects of the Astragalus-based supplement versus a placebo on telomere length (TL) in 40 healthy volunteers (mean age 56.

Lumbar intradiscal pressure measured in the anterior and posterolateral annular regions during asymmetrical loading.

OBJECTIVE: To analyze the effect of asymmetrical loading on intradiscal pressure. DESIGN: Human cadaveric lumbar spines were instrumented with multiple pressure sensors and subjected to external mechanical loads. BACKGROUND: Tears and radial fissures in the posterolateral annulus with no evidence of annular protrusion or nuclear extrusion are frequently observed in non-degenerated intervertebral discs.

Segmental stability and compressive strength of posterior lumbar interbody fusion implants.

Study Design: Human cadaveric study on initial segmental stability and compressive strength of posterior lumbar interbody fusion implants.

Objectives: To compare the initial segmental stability and compressive strength of a posterior lumbar interbody fusion construct using a new cortical bone spacer machined from allograft to that of titanium threaded and nonthreaded posterior lumbar interbody fusion cages, tested as stand-alone and with supplemental pedicle screw fixation.

Summary Of Background Data: Cages were introduced to overcome the limitations of conventional allografts.

A surgical approach to the ventral aspect of the lumbar vertebrae in the sheep model.

The sheep model is frequently used for pre-clinical trials of spinal implants and vertebral interbody fusion devices. The lack of a well-documented multisegmental approach to the ventral aspect of the lumbar vertebrae has limited these trials to a posterior approach to the spine. A retroperitoneal approach to the sheep lumbar vertebrae was established and tested.

The efficacy of interconnected porous hydroxyapatite in achieving posterolateral lumbar fusion in sheep.

Study Design: An animal study was performed to evaluate lumbar spinal fusion radiologically and mechanically.

Objectives: To assess the efficacy of interconnected porous hydroxyapatite in achieving posterolateral lumbar arthrodesis in sheep.

Summary Of Background Data: Posterolateral spinal arthrodesis with autologous bone graft is the gold standard procedure for lumbar fusion.