Identifying the source rookery of green turtles (Chelonia mydas) found in feeding grounds around the Korean Peninsula.

Determining the genetic diversity and source rookeries of sea turtles collected from feeding grounds can facilitate effective conservation initiatives. To ascertain the genetic composition and source rookery, we examined a partial sequence of the mitochondrial control region (CR, 796 bp) of 40 green turtles (Chelonia mydas) collected from feeding grounds around the Korean Peninsula between 2014 and 2022. We conducted genetic and mixed-stock analyses (MSA) and identified 10 CR haplotypes previously reported in Japanese populations. In the haplotype network, six, three, and one haplotype(s) grouped with the Japan, Indo-Pacific, and Central South Pacific clades, respectively. The primary rookeries of the green turtles were two distantly remote sites, Ogasawara (OGA) and Central Ryukyu Island (CRI), approximately 1,300 km apart from each other. Comparing three parameters (season, maturity, and specific feeding ground), we noted that OGA was mainly associated with summer and the Jeju Sea, whereas CRI was with fall and the East (Japan) Sea ground. The maturity did not show a distinct pattern. Our results indicate that green turtles in the feeding grounds around the Korean Peninsula originate mainly from the Japan MU and have genetic origins in the Japan, Indo-Pacific, and Central South Pacific clades. Our results provide crucial insights into rookeries and MUs, which are the focus of conservation efforts of the Republic of Korea and potential parties to collaborate for green turtle conservation.

The complete mitochondrial genome of Helicana japonica (Crustacea, Decapoda, Varunidae) from South Korea.

Helicana japonica mainly inhabits burrowed holes in the mudflats and intertidal zones. Specimens from the Republic of Korea were collected and whole genomic DNA from the cheliped muscle tissue was extracted. We determined the complete mitochondrial genome using Illumina HiSeq X Ten. The mitogenome is 16,535 bp in length and consists of 13 protein-coding genes, 2 rRNA genes, and 22 tRNA genes. A phylogenetic tree was reconstructed using the maximum-likelihood of phylogeny methods. H. japonica formed a sister clade with Helicana wuana, which is another Helicana species.

Biodiversity and spatial distribution of ascidian using environmental DNA metabarcoding.

Monitoring studies are necessary to understand the biodiversity of marine ecosystems and are useful for identifying and managing rare or invasive species. Because monitoring has traditionally relied only on visual surveys (e.g., trapping, netting, electrofishing, and SCUBA diving) with limited time and physical resources, environmental DNA (eDNA) analysis is being applied as an efficient monitoring method. This study compared whether the eDNA metabarcoding technique can replace the traditional visual survey in an ascidian fauna study. We designed ascidian-specific primers and identified a clear gap (3.75%) by barcoding gap analysis. Then, we collected seawater samples for eDNA analysis during the summer (August-September) of 2021 at three sites (Mokpo, Yeosu, and Uljin) in South Korea. In the survey sites of this study, 25 species were observed through literature and visual survey, among which 9 species were detected by metabarcoding and 16 species were not detected. On the other hand, 10 species were detected only by metabarcoding, and one of them was identified as Pyura mirabilis, an unrecorded species in South Korea. This study succeeded in detecting cryptic or rare species with one seawater collection, which can be used to determine their unexplored habitat. Therefore, we conclude that monitoring using eDNA is more efficient than visual surveys for detecting rare or cryptic ascidian species. We also suggest that, when combined with traditional monitoring methods, it could be a tool to complement ascidian fauna studies.

The complete mitochondrial genome of Balanus trigonus (Thecostraca, Balanomorpha, Balanidae) from South Korea.

The complete sequence of the mitochondrial genome of Balanus trigonus Darwin, 1854 was examined using next-generation sequencing analysis. The complete mitogenome of B. trigonus has 15,336 bp in length and comprises 37 genes, namely, 13 protein-coding genes (PCGs), 22 tRNAs, and two rRNAs. Both the gene order and characteristics are consistent with those of other species within the family Balanidae. Phylogenetic analysis based on complete mitogenomes revealed taxonomic relationships among members of the family Balanidae.

The complete mitochondrial genome of a yellow-bellied sea snake (Hydrophis platurus) (Squamata, Elapidae).

In this study, we provide the first report of the complete mitochondrial genomic sequencing of a yellow-bellied sea snake (Hydrophis platurus) that has the broadest distribution range of all Squamata species. The mitogenome length was 18,101 bp and consisted of 13 protein-coding genes, 2 rRNA genes, 22 tRNA genes, and 3 non-coding regions. The sequence presented could be very useful for further phylogenetic and evolutionary studies.

Complete mitochondrial genome of the Ijima's Sea Snake (Emydocephalus ijimae) (Squamata, Elapidae).

In this study, we provide the first report of the complete mitochondrial genome of Emydocephalus ijimae. The mitogenome length is 18,259 bp and includes 13 protein-coding genes, two rRNA genes, 22 tRNA genes, and three non-coding regions. The sequence presented could be very useful for further phylogenetic and evolutionary study.

Complete mitochondrial genome of Gymnocanthus intermedius and Gymnocanthus herzensteini (Scorpaeniformes: Cottidae).

Here, we report the complete mitochondrial genomes of the Sculpins species Gymnocanthus intermedius and Gymnocanthus herzensteini. The mitogenomes were determined to be 16,639 bp for G. intermedius and 16,691 bp for G. herzensteini. The mitogenomes comprised 13 protein-coding genes, 2 rRNA genes, 22 tRNA genes, and a non-coding region. We then used the mitogenome data to construct a phylogenetic tree for these two species and an additional three species within the order Scorpaeniformes.

Mutual Interaction between Plasma Characteristics and Liquid Properties in AC-driven Pin-to-Liquid Discharge.

This study investigated the mutual interaction between the plasma and plasma treated water (PTW). Many works have shown that the plasma treatment decreases the pH of PTW due to nitric oxide electrolyte ion but the interactions between PTW and the plasma are still largely unknown. We investigated the effect of PTW on a plasma as well as the effect of a plasma on PTW using a pin-to-liquid discharge system. It is found that PTW affects not only the chemical properties but also the physical properties of the plasma such as breakdown voltage and concentration of plasma column. The decrease of the liquid surface tension of PTW due to nitric oxide electrolyte ion from the plasma results in the increase of plasma current onto the surface of PTW and vice versa. The feedback process will be continued until the transition from normal discharge to abnormal discharge. These results can be basic data for the development of plasma sources to treat liquids.

Comparison of the Clinical Outcomes of Open Surgery Versus Arthroscopic Surgery for Chronic Refractory Lateral Epicondylitis of the Elbow.

Numerous surgical options have been introduced for the treatment of chronic refractory lateral epicondylitis of the elbow, but it remains unclear which option is superior. The clinical outcomes of an open surgery group and an arthroscopic surgery group were evaluated, and the results of the 2 procedures were compared. From among patients with lateral epicondylitis refractory to 6 months of conservative treatment, 68 patients satisfying study criteria were recruited. Open surgery was performed in 34 cases (group 1), and arthroscopic surgery was performed in 34 cases (group 2). Compared with preoperatively, the 2 groups had significantly improved values for grip strength, range of motion, and Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand score at 12 months postoperatively. Group 1 had significantly greater improvements in grip strength and visual analog scale pain score compared with group 2 (P=.048 vs P=.006). Group 2 had significantly greater (P=.045) improvement in pronation compared with group 1. Group 2 returned to work sooner than group 1. On the questionnaire regarding satisfaction with surgery 24 months postoperatively, 4 patients (12%) in group 2 reported dissatisfaction compared with no patients in group 1. Open surgery and arthroscopic surgery both yielded good clinical results. Nonetheless, for patients requiring muscle strength or having severe pain at work, open surgery would be more effective. [Orthopedics. 2018; 41(4):237-247.].

Genetic signatures of natural selection in a model invasive ascidian.

Invasive species represent promising models to study species' responses to rapidly changing environments. Although local adaptation frequently occurs during contemporary range expansion, the associated genetic signatures at both population and genomic levels remain largely unknown. Here, we use genome-wide gene-associated microsatellites to investigate genetic signatures of natural selection in a model invasive ascidian, Ciona robusta. Population genetic analyses of 150 individuals sampled in Korea, New Zealand, South Africa and Spain showed significant genetic differentiation among populations. Based on outlier tests, we found high incidence of signatures of directional selection at 19 loci. Hitchhiking mapping analyses identified 12 directional selective sweep regions, and all selective sweep windows on chromosomes were narrow (~8.9 kb). Further analyses indentified 132 candidate genes under selection. When we compared our genetic data and six crucial environmental variables, 16 putatively selected loci showed significant correlation with these environmental variables. This suggests that the local environmental conditions have left significant signatures of selection at both population and genomic levels. Finally, we identified "plastic" genomic regions and genes that are promising regions to investigate evolutionary responses to rapid environmental change in C. robusta.

Effect of glenohumeral position on contact pressure between the capsulolabral complex and the glenoid in free ALPSA and Bankart lesions.

PURPOSE: Anterior shoulder dislocation is a common injury, but the optimal management of dislocation remains controversial. We hypothesized that reducing the shoulder in externally rotated position would aid the reduction in capsulolabral lesions. Thus, in this study, contact pressure between the capsulolabral lesion and the glenoid in free ALPSA and Bankart lesions was measured using a cadaver model. METHODS: In 10 specimens, the humerus was externally rotated by abduction on the coronal plane to measure the contact pressure between the capsulolabral complex and glenoid in free ALPSA and Bankart lesions using a Tekscan pressure system. Stability of the joint was confirmed using the Vicon motion analysis system. RESULTS: In the normal shoulder joint, the peak pressure between the subscapularis muscle and the anterior capsule according to the location of the glenohumeral joint decreased to 83.4 ± 21.2 kPa in the 0° abduction and -30° external rotation positions and showed a 300.7 ± 42.9 kPa peak value in the 60° abduction and 60° external rotation positions. In both free ALPSA and Bankart lesions, the lowest pressure between the labral lesion and the glenoid was measured at 0° abduction and -30° external rotation, and the highest pressure was recorded at 60° external rotation and 60° abduction. CONCLUSION: The contact pressure between the capsulolabral complex and the glenoid significantly increased when the abduction and external rotation angles were increased. Based on our results, the conservative management in free ALPSA lesions would respond better than Bankart lesions. IRB OR ETHICAL COMMITTEE APPROVAL: YWMR-12-0-038.

Relationship between the extent of labral lesions and the frequency of glenohumeral dislocation in shoulder instability.

PURPOSE: This study aimed to evaluate the relationship between the extent of the labral lesion and the frequency of glenohumeral dislocation in patients with shoulder instability. METHODS: Ninety-three patients, who underwent surgical treatment at our clinic for chronic anterior shoulder dislocation, were selected and divided into 3 groups (group I: only Bankart lesion; group II: Bankart and SLAP lesions; group III: circumferential-labral lesion). The pre-operative frequency of dislocation, intraoperative findings, operation time, post-operative clinical score, and range of motion 2 years after surgery were analysed and compared among the 3 groups. RESULTS: The time interval from the initial dislocation to operation was significantly shorter in group III than in groups I and II (P = 0.034 and P = 0.046, respectively). The median number of preoperative dislocations was also significantly less in group III than in groups I and II (P = 0.025 and P = 0.044, respectively). In all groups, the clinical scores (Constant, Rowe, and visual analogue scale) improved significantly post-operatively, and there were no significant differences in the scores between the different groups. All patients returned to work, and most patients returned to their preoperative sports activity levels. CONCLUSION: The extent of the labral lesion is not always related to the number of dislocations; therefore, treatment should not be based on this. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Retrospective comparative study, Level III.

Clinical results of technique for double bundle anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction using hybrid femoral fixation and Retroscrew.

BACKGROUND: Anatomic anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction has been presented as a means to more accurately restore the native anatomy of this ligament. This article describes a new method that uses a double bundle to perform ACL reconstruction and to evaluate the clinical outcome. METHODS: Grafts are tibialis anterior tendon allograft for anteromedial bundle (AMB) and hamstring tendon autograft without detachment of the tibial insertion for posterolateral bundle (PLB). This technique creates 2 tunnels in both the femur and tibia. Femoral fixation was done by hybrid fixation using Endobutton and Rigidfix for AMB and by biointerference screw for PLB. Tibial fixations are done by Retroscrew for AMB and by native insertion of hamstring tendon for PLB. Both bundles are independently and differently tensioned. We performed ACL reconstruction in 63 patients using our new technique. Among them, 47 participated in this study. The patients were followed up with clinical examination, Lysholm scales and International Knee Documentation Committee (IKDC) scoring system and radiological examination with a minimum 12 month follow-up duration. RESULTS: Significant improvement was seen on Lachman test and pivot-shift test between preoperative and last follow-up. Only one of participants had flexion contracture about 5 degrees at last follow-up. In anterior drawer test by KT-1000, authors found improvement from average 8.3 mm (range, 4 to 18 mm) preoperatively to average 1.4 mm (range, 0 to 6 mm) at last follow-up. Average Lysholm score of all patients was 72.7 ± 8.8 (range, 54 to 79) preoperatively and significant improvement was seen, score was 92.2 ± 5.3 (range, 74 to 97; p < 0.05) at last follow-up. Also IKDC score was normal in 35 cases, near normal in 11 cases, abnormal in 1 case at last follow-up. CONCLUSIONS: Our new double bundle ACL reconstruction technique used hybrid fixation and Retroscrew had favorable outcomes.

Arthroscopic repair for combined Bankart and superior labral anterior posterior lesions: a comparative study between primary and recurrent anterior dislocation in the shoulder.

PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to compare clinical outcomes between a primary dislocation group (group P) and a recurrent dislocation group (group R) with combined lesion of Bankart and type II SLAP lesions (type V SLAP lesion) and to evaluate incidence of type V SLAP lesion. In addition, the authors evaluated clinical outcomes of these patients by dividing two groups according to the sequence for Bankart and SLAP lesion suture. METHODS: From May 2000 to May 2005, 310 patients who gave informed consent, underwent the diagnostic arthroscopy and magnetic resonance arthrography (MRA). One hundred and ten patients met the following criteria: (1) post-traumatic primary or recurrent anterior shoulder instability, (2) a normal contralateral shoulder, (3) a type V SLAP lesion, and (4) minimum follow-up of two years. Group P included 42 patients, and group R, 68 patients. Among all patients, 58 patients who had Bankart lesions sutured first were included in group B, and 52 who had their SLAP lesions sutured beforehand, group S. Visual analogue scale, range of motion, Rowe and Constant score were used to compare results between group P and group R, also group B and group S. RESULTS: The incidence rates of type V SLAP lesion were 42.8% in group P and 32.0% in group R. The overall treatment results in our study were good. Even if the difference between the two groups was statistically insignificant, group P showed greater recovery of range of motion than group R in external rotation. No significant difference was found between the two different operative methods according to suture sequence. CONCLUSION: The incidence rates of type V SLAP lesion were 42.8% in the primary dislocation group and 32.0% in the recurrent dislocation group. The overall treatment results in our study were good. Although there was no statistical significance in surgical time between the two groups, when both SLAP and Bankart lesions are present, the Bankart lesion must be sutured first to reduce surgical time.