Synergistic enhancement of spinal fusion in preclinical models using low-dose rhBMP-2 and stromal vascular fraction in an injectable hydrogel composite.

Spinal fusion surgery remains a significant challenge due to limitations in current bone graft materials, particularly in terms of bioactivity, integration, and safety. This study presents an innovative approach using an injectable hydroxyapatite/β-tricalcium phosphate (HA/β-TCP) hydrogel combined with stromal vascular fraction (SVF) and low-dose recombinant human BMP-2 (rhBMP-2) to enhance osteodifferentiation and angiogenesis. Through a series of in vitro studies and preclinical models involving rats and minipigs, we demonstrated that the hydrogel system enables the sustained release of rhBMP-2, resulting in significantly improved bone density and integration, alongside reduced inflammatory responses.

Evidence for the advantages of assessing action video game proficiency in addition to gaming experience.

Investigations into whether playing action video games (AVGs) benefit other tasks, such as driving, have traditionally focused on gaming experience (i.e., hours played).

The Relationship Between Game-Related Assessment and Traditional Measures of Cognitive Ability-A Meta-Analysis.

Technological advances have introduced new methods for assessing psychological constructs, moving beyond traditional paper-pencil tests. Game-related assessments (GRAs) offer several advantages for research and practice, though questions about their construct validity persist. This meta-analysis investigated the relationship between indicators derived from computer-based games and traditional cognitive ability measures, examining whether measurement scope (single vs.

CT- and MRI-based Factors Associated with Rapid Growth in Early-Stage Hepatocellular Carcinoma.

Background Prediction of the tumor growth rates is clinically important in patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), but previous studies have presented conflicting results and generally lacked radiologic evaluations. Purpose To evaluate the percentage of rapidly growing early-stage HCCs in each Liver Imaging Reporting and Data System (LI-RADS) category and to identify prognostic factors associated with rapid growth. Materials and Methods Retrospective study of patients with risk factors for HCC and those with surgically proven early-stage HCC who underwent two or more preoperative multiphasic CT or MRI examinations between January 2016 and December 2020.