bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of growth regulators on the branching ability of maiden apple trees of the ‘Šampion’ and ‘Jonica’ cultivars
Authors: Kapłan Magdalena
Published: August 2013

In 2000-2003, studies were conducted in the Felin Experimental Station at the University of Agriculture in Lublin to evaluate the impact of BA + GA3 2.2% (Arbolin 036 SL) and BA + GA4+7 2.2% and 3.75% (Promalin 3.6 SL) in the form of lanolin paste on the increase of the number of lateral shoots in maiden apple trees of the ‘Šampion’ and ‘Jonica’ cultivars. The growth regulators were found to have a beneficial effect on the branching ability of the maidens of the studied cultivars. ‘Jonica’ showed weaker apical dominance than ‘Šampion’. Young ‘Jonica’ trees had more lateral shoots of greater length than the ‘Šampion’ maidens.
The influence of intercropping broad bean with phacelia on the occurrence of weevils (Sitona spp.) and broad bean beetles (Bruchus rufimanus Boh.)
Authors: Wnuk Andrzej , Wojciechowicz-Żytko Elżbieta
Published: August 2013

A study of the influence of intercropping broad bean with phacelia on the occurrence of weevils and broad bean beetles was conducted in the years 2006-2009. The harmfulness of Sitona spp. beetles feeding on the leaves (the number of U-shape notches and the number of damaged leaves) and the harmfulness of the larvae, as well as the feeding on the broad bean root nodules was taken into account. The harmfulness of the broad bean beetle was determined by assessing the condition of the seeds. The influence of phacelia on the presence of weevils (Sitona) and broad bean beetles (Bruchus rufimanus) as broad bean pests was not observed. A smaller amount of broad bean seeds damaged by the broad bean beetle was determined only in some of the years of the study in the plots in which the phacelia was intercropped with broad bean.
The effect of benzyladenine and naphthalene acetic acid on rooting and subsequent growth of Portulaca umbraticola Kunth
Authors: Wróblewska Katarzyna , Bąbelewski Przemysław
Published: August 2013

Portulaca umbraticola Kunth stem cuttings were treated with BA or BA and NAA in different concentrations. BA was applied by spraying or by the quick-dip method. Independent of application type, in almost all of the treatments BA and BA applied with NAA increased the percentage of rooted cuttings, but had no effect on the number of roots, apart from BA in the 0.5 g dm-3 concentration, which doubled the root number. Treatment with BA alone resulted in more intensive axillary shoot development, although only in one concentration (0.2 g dm-3) did BA significantly influence the number and length of lateral shoots. BA applied together with NAA had no effect or inhibited lateral shoot development.

After measurement, rooted cuttings were planted in pots in order to assess subsequent plant growth. Our data indicated that the positive effect of BA on shoot development disappeared during the subsequent cultivation of the plants. BA alone applied by spraying did not influence the number and length of initial and secondary lateral shoots, whereas BA applied with NAA negatively influenced the length of initial lateral shoots as well as the number and length of secondary lateral shoots.
Quality of water used for drip irrigation and fertigation of horticultural plants
Authors: Breś Włodzimierz , Kleiber Tomasz , Trelka Tomasz
Published: August 2013

In the years 1997-2008, 131 water samples were analysed. The concentration of N-NH4, N-NO3, P, K, Ca, Mg, Na, Cl, S-SO4, Fe, Mn, Zn, Cu, B, and HCO3 - was measured. In addition, the pH value and the electrolytic conductivity (EC) were determined and the sodium adsorption ratio (SAR) was calculated. The assessment of water was done on the basis of the classifications of water for the irrigation of greenhouse crops grown in soil or traditional media. According to guide values, water samples had to have high concentration of ions, especially HCO3, Mg, Na and K. The questioned quality in about one half of the water indicates that the limits proposed by different researchers are too restrictive. The criteria to be met by water admissible for irrigation and fertigation should take into consideration the regional differences in water characteristics. The adaptation of recommendations elaborated on the basis of analyses originating from other geographical and geological regions can lead to the elimination of waters possessing favourable quality parameters. For irrigation of field and greenhouse crops, the following concentrations of components in water might be recommended as safe ones: 30 mg N-NO3, 100 mg K, 150 mg Ca, 50 mg Mg, 100 mg Na, 100 mg Cl and 100 mg S-SO4 in 1 dm3. For soilless culture fertigation in an open system, the maximum ion concentrations in water cannot exceed the recommended ones in the nutrient solution for the given plant. Also, the EC value should be taken into consideration.
INTERVENTION EFFECT OF FOLIC ACID AND VITAMIN B12 ON VASCULAR COGNITIVE IMPAIRMENT COMPLICATED WITH HYPERHOMOCYSTEINEMIA / EFEKAT INTERVENCIJE FOLNOM KISELINOM I VITAMINOM B12 NA VASKULARNI KOGNITIVNI POREMEĆAJ KOMPLIKOVAN HIPERHOMOCISTEINEMIJOM
Authors: Jiang Bo , Ding Chengyun , Yao Guoen , Yao Cunshan , Zhang Yunyan , Ge Junling , Qiu Enchao
Published: August 2013

Background: Hyperhomocysteinemia (HHcy) may be corre- lated with cognitive function. Although intervention with folic acid and VitB12 can decrease the homocysteine (Hey) level, its effect on cognitive function remains uncertain. This prospective study aimed to explore the effects of folic acid and VitB/!2 on the ^су an<^ cognitive function in patients with vascular cognitive impairment-no dementia (VCIND) complicated with HHcy.

Methods: A total of 120 patients with VCIND complicated fcy HHcy were randomly selected. They were divided into inter- vention and control groups. The intervention group was given 5 mg of folic acid per day and 500 цд of VitB^ thrice per day apart from conventional therapy. Folic acid, V'itBl2, and Hey were determined and Montreal cognitive assess- ment (MoCA) and event-related potential P300 determination were performed before and after treatment.

Results: Before treatment, no significant differences in the folic acid, VitB^, Hey, MoCA, and P300 parameters were observed between the groups. After treatment, the folic acid and VitBl2 levels increased and the Hey level decreased in the intervention group compared with that before treatment and in the control group. At 24 weeks, the MoCA score and P300 outcomes in the intervention group improved com- pared with those before treatment and in the control group.

Conclusions: Folic acid and VitB^ effectively decrease the Hey level in VCIND patients and improve their cognitive functions.
ANALYTICAL AND CLINICAL EVALUATION OF SYSMEX UF1000I FOR AUTOMATED SCREENING OF CEREBROSPINAL FLUIDS ANALITIČKA I KLINIČKA EVALUACIJA UREĐAJA SYSMEX UF1000I ZA AUTOMATSKI SKRINING CEREBROSPINALNIH TEČNOSTI
Authors: Buoro Sabrina , Ottomano Cosimo , Esposito Sara Appassiti , Gherardi Patrizia , Alessio Maria Grazia , Crippa Alberto , Raglio Claudio FarinaAnnibale , Lippi Giuseppe
Published: August 2013

Background: We evaluated the performance of Sysmex UF- 1000i for cell counting and differential cell count, as well as for assessment of bacteria load in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), as a potential approach for the rapid screening of meningitis or bacterial encephalitis. Methods: We analyzed 77 consecutive CSF samples, 34 of which (44%) displayed leukocyte count >5 white blood cell (WBQ/^iL with optical microscopy.

Results on the UF-1000i were compared with those obtained by microscopic analysis. Imprecision was evaluated by testing three CSF samples with leukocyte values between 3.5 and 28.8 WBC/nL in 10 repli- cates. Carry-over was evaluated with the Broughton formula on three CSF pools with leukocyte counts between 93.5 and 132.5 WBC/^L. Linearity was assessed according to CLSI document EP6-A. In the presence of bacteria, identification and antibiogram were performed with Vitex (Biomerieux), except for Neisserie meningitidis (ApiNH, Biomerieux). Sensitivity tests were performed with Vitex and disc diffusion. Results: Optimal correlation was found between UF-1000i and optical microscopy, displaying Pearson's correlation of 0.99 and mean bias of-3.5 WBC/^L (95% Cl, from -7.0 to 0.0 WBC/nL). Imprecision varied between 12 and 16%. Li- nearity was excellent, 4-278 WBC/nL. Carry-over was neg- ligible. ROC analysis yielded AUC of 0.99 for both WBC and bacterial counts. The agreement at threshold >4 WBC/nL was 0.91, with sensitivity and specificity of 1.00 and 0.84. At S19 bacteria^nL cut-off, accuracy was 0.98, sensitivity 1.00 and specificity 0.97.

Conclusions: According to these results, CSF screening with UF-I000i seems a reliable approach in terms of instrument performance, turnaround time and overall laboratory effi- ciency.
microRNA in the control of stem-like phenotype of cancer cells
Authors: Wozniak Michal
Published: August 2013

Current therapies against metastatic tumors are still ineffective. Cancer stem cells — a small subset of cells inside the tumor that possesses a self-renewal capacity — might be responsible for the recurrence of the tumor after anti-cancer therapies. Their immortality and unique drug resistance impede their eradication during therapy. The ‘stemness’ of these cells is controlled by microRNAs. These molecules possess the ability to downregulate gene expression by binding to the target mRNA. It turns out that microRNAs control the expression of approximately 60% of the genes in human cells. MicroRNA aberrant expression can lead to cancer development and progression. Therefore, recent research has focused on unraveling the role of microRNA in maintaining a stem-like phenotype in malignant tumors and cancer stem cells. This review summarizes our current knowledge about microRNAs that control the self-renewal capacity of cancer stem cells and indicates the importance of profound research aimed at developing efficient miRNA-targeted therapies.
Molecular diversity of small balsam populations in relation to site characteristics
Authors: Kupcinskiene Eugenija , Zybartaite Lina , Janulioniene Rasa , Zukauskiene Judita , Paulauskas Algimantas
Published: August 2013

Climatic shifts within recent decades created favorable conditions for invasive species flourishing in more Northern parts of Europe. Our study was aimed at evaluation of genetic variability and habitat features of Impatiens parviflora populations growing in Lithuania. Twenty one populations were selected and analysed using simple sequence repeat (SSR) and randomly amplified polymorphic DNA (RAPD) assays. Evaluated by SSRs, 315 individuals were all monomorphic and homozygous at 4 loci and heterozygous at 1 locus. RAPD analyses revealed that the percentage of polymorphic DNA loci (% P) per population ranged from 7 to 39% and genetic differentiation between populations was ΦPT=0.790 (P<0.01). Genetic distances among populations (0.135–0.426) correlated significantly with geographical distances (r=0.183; P<0.008). Populations in overmoistured soil contained higher % P (28.3) when compared to drier soil (18.7; P<0.05). All recorded populations were close to roads; their % P did not depend on proximity to buildings, light intensity or population size. Our RAPD analyses indicate multiple introductions of this species in Lithuania. Analyses of I. parviflora at SSR and RAPD loci show that the invasion process is reflected in genetic structure.
Cutting the edge of idiopathic recurrent orbital myositis
Authors: Ariatti Alessandra , Galassi Giuliana , Rovati Raffaella , Chiari Annalisa
Published: August 2013

The spectrum of orbital inflammatory diseases ranges broadly from specific diseases as connective tissue disorders, thyroid ophthalmopathy to non-specific inflammations, which may involve one or multiple structures of the orbit and/ or the surrounding sinus. Idiopathic orbital myositis (IOM) may be a localized process or it can be secondary to systemic diseases. We report 4 patients affected by IOM; in all relapsing diplopia was the main complaint, associated with orbital pain in 3 and with abnormal visual evoked responses in 2. Computed tomography (CT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) supported the diagnosis revealing enlargement, altered signal intensity of affected muscles. Repeated MRI scans and extensive laboratory examinations comprising of the search for a remote malignacy, lymproliferative, connective tissue diseases, thyroid ophthalmopathy were necessary to confirm the diagnosis. Oral or/and intravenous steroids were main treatments; relapses often occurred when steroid was tapered down. Intravenous immuneglobulins and azathioprine was used in one refractory case
Genetic and clinical diagnosis in non-syndromic hearing loss
Authors: Sommen Manou , van Camp Guy , Boudewyns An
Published: August 2013

Once a diagnosis of unilateral or bilateral congenital hearing loss is established in an infant by age-specific auditory testing, a search for an underlying aetiological diagnosis is required. A rational and cost-efficient aetiological work-up requires a basic knowledge about risk factors and the most common reasons for congenital hearing loss. Both genetic and environmental factors each account for about half of the causes. Among the environmental factors, perinatal insults and congenital infections, especially congenital cytomegalovirus infection, should be considered. Imaging is required to exclude structural inner ear anomalies that may occur as an isolated entity, be part of a syndrome and/or may have therapeutic implications when a surgical intervention for the hearing loss by means of cochlear implantation is envisaged.

Genetic testing is an integral part of the aetiological work-up. Although more than 47 causative genes have been identified for the non-syndromic forms of hearing loss alone, diagnostic application of the scientific progress has lagged behind, because screening all the known causative genes for hearing loss in one patient with current technology would be extremely expensive. Consequently, current routine DNA diagnostic testing for non-syndromic hearing loss is restricted to one or two of the most common causative genes, which identifies the responsible gene in only 10–20% of cases. However, on the basis of audiometric information (frequencies affected, thresholds), age of onset, imaging results or other clinical information, specific genes should be analysed. The aims of the present paper are to propose a rational and scientifically valid diagnostic strategy for an aetiological work-up of congenital hearing loss including an overview of the current DNA diagnostics as well as a brief look into the future.
Auditory neuropathies and electrocochleography
Authors: Santarelli Rosamaria , del Castillo Ignacio , Starr Arnold
Published: August 2013

Auditory neuropathy (AN) is a hearing disorder characterized by disruption of temporal coding of acoustic signals in auditory nerve fibres resulting in impairment of auditory perceptions relying on temporal cues (1, 2). Mechanisms suggested include both pre-synaptic and post-synaptic disorders affecting inner hair cell (IHC) depolarization, neurotransmitter release from ribbon synapses, spike initiation in auditory nerve terminals, loss of nerve fibres and impaired conduction, all occurring in the presence of normal physiological measures of outer hair cell (OHC) activities (otoacoustic emissions (OAEs) and cochlear microphonic (CM)). Disordered synchrony of auditory nerve discharge has been suggested as the basis of both the profound alterations of auditory brainstem responses (ABRs) and impairment of speech perception (3). We review how electrocochleography (ECochG) can provide detailed information to help define objectively the sites of auditory neural dysfunction as affecting IHC receptor summating potential (SP) and compound action potential (CAP), the latter reflecting disorders of ribbon synapsis and auditory nerve fibres.
No Longer a Phone
Authors: Wellner Galit
Published: August 2013

Today's navigation is different, with no paper map or compass. Instead we use a cellphone that has a built-in GPS. Such a cellphone is also equipped with an embedded camera that can read signs in various languages and barcodes that most humans cannot decipher. Combined, the GPS and the camera participate in the production and exercise of augmented reality, where reality is presented with layers of information which are accessible only through technological mediation. Currently such mediation is enabled by the cellphone, thereby providing novel dimensions to our experience of mobility. Consequently it produces innovative ways of navigation and a new sensation of reality.
Street View
Authors: Benge Joe
Published: August 2013

The Pruitt-Igoe Myth, United States, 2011, produced by Chad Freidrichs, Jaime
Freidrichs, Brian Woodman, and Paul Fehler, directed by Chad Freidrichs,
written by Chad Freidrichs and Jaime Freidrichs.
Book Reviews
Authors: Vannini Phillip , Kim Nanny , Cooke Lisa , Mascheroni Giovanna , Baaklini Jad , Fen Ekaterina , Betz Elisabeth , Helfgott Federico , Pellegrino Giuseppina , Ruppmann Reiner , Mierzejewski Alfred C.
Published: August 2013

Tim Ingold, Being Alive: Essays on Movement, Knowledge and Description; Tim Ingold (ed.), Redrawing Anthropology: Materials, Movements, Lines; Tim Ingold and Jo Lee Vergunst (eds.), Ways of Walking: Ethnography and Practice on Foot
Phillip Vannini

Tom Standage, A History of the World in 6 Glasses
Nanny Kim

Simone Fullagar, Kevin W. Markwell, and Erica Wilson (eds.), Slow Tourism: Experiences and Mobilities
Lisa Cooke

Jennie Germann Molz, Travel Connections: Tourism, Technology and Togetherness in a Mobile World
Giovanna Mascheroni

Hazel Andrews and Les Roberts (eds.), Liminal Landscapes: Travel, Experience and Spaces In-between
Jad Baaklini

Les Roberts, Film, Mobility and Urban Space: A Cinematic Geography of Liverpool
Ekaterina Fen

Helen Lee and Steve Tupai Francis (eds.), Migration and Transnationalism: Pacific Perspectives
Elisabeth Betz

David Pedersen, American Value: Migrants, Money and Meaning in El Salvador and the United States
Federico Helfgott

Leopoldina Fortunati, Raul Pertierra and Jane Vincent (eds.), Migration, Diaspora, and Information Technology in Global Societies
Giuseppina Pellegrino

Daniel Flückinger, Strassen für alle: Infrastrukturpolitik im Kanton Bern 1790-1850
Reiner Ruppmann

Richard Vahrenkamp, The Logistic Revolution: The Rise of Logistics in the Mass Consumption Society
Alfred C. Mierzejewski
Transtubular microsurgical approach to treating extraforaminal lumbar disc herniations
Authors: Eicker Sven O. , Rhee Sascha , Steiger Hans-Jakob , Herdmann Jörg , Floeth Frank W.
Published: August 2013

Object

Approaches to treating extraforaminal lumbar disc herniations can be challenging due to the unique anatomy and the need to prevent spinal instability. Numerous approaches, including conventional midline, paramedian, minimally invasive, and full endoscopic approaches, have been described. The purposes of this study were to point out the outcome and clinical advantages of a transtubular microsurgical approach and to describe and illustrate this technique.

Methods

Between 2009 and 2012, a series of 51 patients underwent a minimally invasive dilative transtubular microsurgical approach for the treatment of extraforaminal lumbar disc herniations. All patients were clinically evaluated using the visual analog scale (VAS) and Oswestry Disability Index preoperatively and 6 months postoperatively.

Results

Both pain scores and functional status showed significant improvement after surgery (p < 0.001): radicular pain decreased from VAS score of 7.9 to one of 1.3, lower back pain from VAS score of 2.4 to 1.4, and the Oswestry Disability Index from 42.0 to 12.3. Subgroup analyses revealed no differences in outcome regarding obesity or timing of surgery (early vs late intervention). Highly significant was the correlation between preoperative radicular pain activity and timing of surgical intervention (p < 0.001).

Conclusions

The dilative transtubular microsurgical approach combines the advantages of the conventional open muscle-splitting approach and the endoscopic approach. The technique is easy to use with a steep learning curve. Less muscle trauma and the absence of bony resection prevent facet pain and instability, thereby contributing to a rapid recovery. Patients in this series improved excellently in the short-term follow-up.
Minimally invasive transforaminal lumbar interbody fusions and fluoroscopy: a low-dose protocol to minimize ionizing radiation
Authors: Clark Justin C. , Jasmer Gary , Marciano Frederick F. , Tumialán Luis M.
Published: August 2013

Object

There is an increasing awareness of radiation exposure to surgeons and the lifelong implications of such exposure. One of the main criticisms of minimally invasive transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion (MIS TLIF) is the amount of ionizing radiation required to perform the procedure. The goal in this study was to develop a protocol that would minimize the fluoroscopy time and radiation exposure needed to perform an MIS TLIF without compromising visualization of the anatomy or efficiency of the procedure.

Methods

A retrospective review of a prospectively collected database was performed to review the development of a low-dose protocol for MIS TLIFs in which a combination of low-dose pulsed fluoroscopy and digital spot images was used. Total fluoroscopy time and radiation dose were reviewed for 50 patients who underwent single-level MIS TLIFs.

Results

Fifty patients underwent single-level MIS TLIFs, resulting in the placement of 200 pedicle screws and 57 interbody spacers. There were 28 women and 22 men with an average age of 58.3 years (range 32–78 years). The mean body mass index was 26.2 kg/m2 (range 17.1–37.6 kg/m2). Indications for surgery included spondylolisthesis (32 patients), degenerative disc disease with radiculopathy (12 patients), and recurrent disc herniation (6 patients). Operative levels included 7 at L3–4, 40 at L4–5, and 3 at L5–S1. The mean operative time was 177 minutes (range 139–241 minutes). The mean fluoroscopic time was 18.72 seconds (range 7–29 seconds). The mean radiation dose was 0.247 mGy*m2 (range 0.06046–0.84054 mGy*m2). No revision surgery was required for any of the patients in this series.

Conclusions

Altering the fluoroscopic technique to low-dose pulse images or digital spot images can dramatically decrease fluoroscopy times and radiation doses in patients undergoing MIS TLIFs, without compromising image quality, accuracy of pedicle screw placement, or efficiency of the procedure.
Minimally invasive approach for the treatment of intradural spinal pathology
Authors: Gandhi Ravi H. , German John W.
Published: August 2013

Object

A wide variety of spinal intradural pathology traditionally has been treated from a midline posterior laminectomy using standard microsurgical techniques. This approach has been successful in treating the pathology; however, it carries a risk of postoperative complications including CSF leakage, wound infection, and spinal instability. The authors describe a minimally invasive surgical (MIS) approach to treating spinal intradural pathology with a low rate of postoperative complications.

Methods

Through a retrospective review of a prospectively collected surgical database, the authors identified 26 patients who underwent 27 surgeries via an MIS approach for intradural pathology of the spine. Using a tubular retractor system and an operative microscope, the authors were able to treat all patients with a unilateral, paramedian, and muscle-splitting technique. They then collected data regarding operative blood loss, length of stay, imaging characteristics, and outcomes.

Results

Eight cervical, 8 thoracic, and 11 lumbar intradural pathological entities, which included 14 oncological lesions, 4 Chiari I malformations, 4 arachnoid cysts, 3 tethered cords, 1 syrinx, and 1 chronic visceral pain, were treated via an MIS approach. The average blood loss was 197 ml and the average hospital stay was 3 days. One patient had to return to the operating room for noninfectious wound dehiscence. One patient required reoperation 18 months after the initial surgery for recurrence of the initial pathology. There was no CSF leak, no infection, and no spinal instability associated with the initial surgery on follow-up.

Conclusions

Intradural spinal pathology can be safely and effectively treated with MIS approaches without an increased risk of neurological injury. This approach may also offer a reduced postoperative length of stay, risk of CSF leak, and risk of future spinal instability.
Outcome following unilateral versus bilateral instrumentation in patients undergoing minimally invasive transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion: a single-center randomized prospective study
Authors: Dahdaleh Nader S. , Nixon Alexander T. , Lawton Cort D. , Wong Albert P. , Smith Zachary A. , Fessler Richard G.
Published: August 2013

Object

Minimally invasive transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion (MIS-TLIF) is used to treat a wide variety of lumbar degenerative disorders. Although there are some reports showing efficacy of unilateral instrumentation during MIS-TLIF, a controlled randomized prospective study has not been done.

Methods

Forty-one patients were randomly assigned to receive either bilateral or unilateral instrumentation following 1-level unilateral MIS-TLIF. Four patients were lost to follow-up in the unilateral group and 1 patient was lost to follow-up in the bilateral group. Preoperative and postoperative scores on a visual analog scale (VAS) for back pain and leg pain (VAS-BP and VAS-LP, respectively), Oswestry Disability Index (ODI), and 36-Item Short Form Healthy Survey version 2 (SF-36v2) were collected. Additionally, preoperative and postoperative segmental Cobb angles and radiographic evidence of fusion were analyzed.

Results

There was no statistically significant difference in baseline demographic characteristics between the 2 groups. The VAS-BP, VAS-LP, ODI, and SF-36v2 physical component scores improved significantly after surgery in both groups (p < 0.05); there was no statistically significant between-groups difference in the degree of improvement. Blood loss was significantly higher in the bilateral instrumentation group and hospital stay was longer in the unilateral instrumentation group. There was no statistically significant between-groups difference with respect to change in segmental lordosis or fusion rate. The average duration of follow-up was 12.4 months for the bilateral instrumentation group and 11.4 months for the unilateral instrumentation group.

Conclusions

Clinical and radiographic outcomes of unilateral and bilateral instrumentation for unilateral MISTLIF are similar 1 year after surgery.
Flexion-distraction injuries of the thoracolumbar spine: open fusion versus percutaneous pedicle screw fixation
Authors: Grossbach Andrew J. , Dahdaleh Nader S. , Abel Taylor J. , Woods Gregory D. , Dlouhy Brian J. , Hitchon Patrick W.
Published: August 2013

Object

Flexion-distraction injuries occur due to distractive forces causing disruption of the posterior and middle spinal columns. These fractures classically consist of a fracture line through the posterior bony elements; involvement of the posterior ligamentous complex is, however, common. Surgical treatment is often required for these unstable injuries to avoid neurological deterioration and posttraumatic kyphosis, and the surgery traditionally consists of an open posterior approach with instrumented fusion. Percutaneous pedicle screw fixation for these injuries, with the goal of minimal tissue disruption and preservation of normal anatomy while achieving adequate stabilization, has recently been reported in the literature, but to date, a direct comparative study comparing open and percutaneous fixation has not been reported. The authors report their experience treating these fractures with both techniques and review the available literature.

Methods

Patients with flexion-distraction injury who were treated between May 2003 and March 2013 were prospectively followed. American Spinal Injury Association scores and degree of kyphotic angulation were recorded at admission, discharge, and follow-up. Data regarding intraoperative blood loss and operative time were obtained from a chart review. Patients treated with open versus minimally invasive procedures were compared.

Results

The authors identified 39 patients who suffered flexion-distraction injuries and were treated at their institution during the specified period; one of these patients declined surgery. All had injury to the posterior ligamentous complex. Open surgical procedures with pedicle screw fixation and posterolateral fusion were performed in 27 patients, while 11 patients underwent minimally invasive pedicle screw placement. Overall, there was improvement in kyphotic angulation at the time of discharge as well as most recent follow-up in both the open surgery and minimally invasive surgery (MIS) groups. The authors found no significant difference in American Spinal Injury Association score or the degree of kyphotic angulation between the MIS and open surgery groups. There was a trend toward shorter operative time for the MIS group, and patients who underwent minimally invasive procedures had significantly less blood loss.

Conclusions

Minimally invasive percutaneous pedicle screw fixation appears to have similar efficacy in the treatment of flexion-distraction injuries and it allows for reduced blood loss and tissue damage compared with open surgical techniques. Therefore it should be considered as an option for the treatment of this type of injury.
Plädoyer für die Rückbesinnung auf den Kern der Nachhaltigkeit (Essay)
Authors: Denzler Lukas
Published: August 2013

We must return to the core principles of sustainability (essay)

Three hundred years ago, Hans Carl von Carlowitz, building on earlier work, made a major new contribution to the definition of sustainable forest management. Since the 1970s, it has been generally acknowledged that our planet is dependent on limited resources: many observers have acknowledged parallels with forestry. The concept of sustainable development has been discussed for 25 years, based on the notion of three dimensions or pillars of equal importance: “economic”, “ecological” and “social”. However, Nature is not a “pillar”, but rather the foundation of all human activity. To survive, we must put Nature to good use. With a growing human population and sharper global competition between different land-uses, high priority must be given to the use of our own domestic resources, in particular Swiss wood.
Urner Wald – Grundlage für eine nachhaltige Entwicklung (Essay)
Authors: Annen Beat
Published: August 2013

The forests of the canton of Uri: the foundation of sustainable development (essay)

The canton of Uri is characterised by extreme topography: steep slopes and narrow valleys. Limited space is a major challenge for the development of the canton. Prudent management of this mountainous area is necessary to ensure a safe and attractive environment. In this situation, the forest, or to be more precise, the management of the forest, plays a key role. Most of the forest area is classified as protection forest, which is an essential condition to guarantee safety. The overriding management objective for the protective forest is sustainability. The existence of the forest in all its forms is the necessary condition also for biodiversity and landscape beauty. There is strong demand for land on the valley floor, where the main challenge is to protect the few remaining forest areas. Elsewhere however, the forest is expanding and measures must be taken to stop it taking over completely. Forest operations have consequences beyond the forest borders. For these reasons, sustainable management of the forest resource is the foundation of sustainable development of the mountainous canton of Uri.
Comprendre la durabilité et la multifonctionalité à l'exemple de la forêt (essai)
Authors: Locatelli Gloria , Pellaud Francine
Published: August 2013

Understanding sustainability and multifunctionality through the forest (essai)

“Learn from yesterday, act today, think of tomorrow.”. For a long time now forest management in Switzerland has been based on the concept of sustainability. Nevertheless, not all forest visitors see things in the same way as foresters. Often the foresters' work is criticized because the meaning and goals of forest interventions are not well understood and consequently not accepted by the population. Real-world examples show that direct contact between foresters and forest visitors improves the population's awareness of forest management. They also show that forests are an ideal place for education on sustainable development (ESD). ESD projects offer the participants the opportunity for hands-on involvement, fieldwork experience and cooperation with professionals. These issues breed understanding and tolerance among the different stakeholders. The SILVIVA project “World of the forester” and the project weeks of the organization “Bildungswerkstatt Bergwald” are practical examples of this concept.
Etude des déchets de réduction provenant de deux sites d'exploitation d'étain armoricain de l'Age du Bronze et du Moyen Age
Authors: Mahé-le Carlier Cécile , Lulzac Yves , Giot Pierre-Roland
Published: August 2013

Numerous bronze artefacts may be found in Armorique. Their ages vary from Bronze Age to recent periods, and particularly of the Middle Age. The Massif Armoricain contains many tin deposits, on which exploitation indices of different ages have been noticed. Slags mixed with charcoal have been found on geological boreholes on two sites. The first site (St Renan, Finistère) is dated of the Middle Bronze Age whereas the second one (Limerzel, Morbihan) is dated of the Early Middle Age. A petrographical and geochemical study of parts of slags from these two sites has been realised. It shows that slags resuit from the reduction of cassiterite (SnO2) to tin métal. The used ore corne from alluvial deposits found in the vicinity. This first work confirms that armorican tin was extracted since Bronze Age and that ore were treated in the area of extraction. In Limerzel site, the presence of the a small metallic lead body which encapsulate cassiterite grains seems to indicate that this site might have also produced more elaborated alloys that simple tin ingots.
Reflet de l'occupation sur le plateau de Saint-André-de-l'Eure (Eure) du Ier siècle avant J.-C. au III è siècle après J.-C. (R.N. 154 - section nord)
Authors: Lepert Thierry , Paez-Rezende Laurent , Adrian Yves-Marie , Boivin Agnès
Published: August 2013

After ten years of development in the south of the Eure, preparatory works of archaeology hâve resulted in the constitution of a documentation collected in relatively homogenous conditions over almost 300 hectares (500 by the end of 2001). The areas concemed are located at random within a chosen study zone, for analysis of land occupation, because of its geographical and topographical cohérence. The representativity of data produced by this documentation is a known parameter. Thus, they come increasingly to constitute an objective sample illustrating the archaeological potential of their acquisition area. Such a sample provides a first interprétation of the data on the archaeological map. As far as the plateau of Saint- André-de-1' Eure is concemed, the number of sites recorded goes over one thousand, half of which resuit from aerial research.

The exploitation of this mass of information concerns ail the protohistorical and historical eras. Indeed, a reasoned and quantified survey of the importance of the sites of the second Iron Age and Early Empire cannot be envisaged without taking into account the continuities and discordances preceding and following the era in question.

This case study leads to surprising results at first sight, the most outstanding being the extremely late évolution of the development of territory concemed. The intégration of the results of study into a reflexion on wider geographical areas provides a first explanation. The acceptable hypothesis of a very late rise of the rural exploitation of the plateau is after ail quite simple. The whole area was very scarcely occupied before the foundation and the development of the city of Evreux. The development of the urban centre together with the rural sites could therefore be accounted for almost exclusively by the satisfaction of the needs of the local urban market. As to the implantation of Evreux, it could simply be resuit of the administrative and économie organization on a large scale, subséquent to the Augustan reforms'1'.
Organocatalytic asymmetric selenofunctionalization of tryptamine for the synthesis of hexahydropyrrolo[2,3-b]indole derivatives
Authors: Wei Qiang , Wang Ya-Yi , Du Yu-Liu , Gong Liu-Zhu
Published: August 2013

A chiral phosphoric acid-catalyzed selenofunctionalization of tryptamine derivatives provides access to 3a-(phenylselenyl)-1,2,3,3a,8,8a-hexahydropyrrolo[2,3-b]indole derivatives in high yields and with synthetically useful levels of enantioselectivity (up to 89% ee).
Vertebral Erosions Associated with Spinal Inflammation in Patients with Ankylosing Spondylitis Identified by Magnetic Resonance Imaging: Changes After 2 Years of Tumor Necrosis Factor Inhibitor Therapy
Authors: Baraliakos Xenofon , Listing Joachim , Haibel Hildrun , Sieper Joachim , Braun Jurgen
Published: August 2013

Objective.

Spinal inflammation and erosions have been described in magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) examinations of patients with ankylosing spondylitis (AS). MRI scoring systems have implemented these observations.

Methods.

MRI scans (T1 or short-tau inversion recovery) from tumor necrosis factor-α blocker (anti-TNF) trials with patients with active AS (n = 22) were analyzed at baseline and after 2 years based on vertebral units (VU). The analysis was based on the prevalence of spinal erosions in relation to inflammation (active erosions) or without it (inactive erosions) as an outcome measure on MRI and their course under anti-TNF therapy. The results of MRI scoring systems that include (ASspiMRI) or exclude (Berlin score) erosions were also compared.

Results.

At baseline, there were more VU with inflammation (33.7%) than with erosions irrespective of activity (10.6%). After 2 years, active erosions decreased to 3.7% while inflammation was seen in a total of 12% of VU — a reduction of 58.9% and 64.5%, respectively (both p < 0.02). The overall extent of erosions decreased from 10.6% at baseline to 5.6% at 2 years. At the patient level, 73% and 32% of patients showed active erosions (p = 0.002), while 100% and 64% of patients showed inflammation (p = 0.029) at baseline and 2 years, respectively. Both scoring systems showed similar improvement, independent of inclusion or exclusion of erosions.

Conclusion.

Inflammation with erosions was observed in the spine of most patients with AS but their contribution to changes observed upon anti-TNF therapy was small, indicating that erosions do not need to be included in quantitative scoring systems of inflammation. Spinal inflammation was still present after 2 years of anti-TNF therapy in two-thirds of patients.
Psoriasis Outcome Measures: A Report from the GRAPPA 2012 Annual Meeting
Authors: Gottlieb Alice B. , Armstrong April W.
Published: August 2013

Psoriasis is a multisystem disease. The cutaneous and musculoskeletal manifestations (psoriatic arthritis) are well recognized. However, the other manifestations of psoriatic disease including metabolic syndrome, atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease, depression, poor self-esteem, and self-destructive habits including obesity, smoking and excess alcohol consumption are underappreciated. At the 2012 annual meeting of the Group for Research and Assessment of Psoriasis and Psoriatic Arthritis (GRAPPA), members addressed the need to develop uniform, validated, standardized outcome measures for psoriatic disease, measures that are useful to all stakeholders including patients, physicians, regulators, and payers.
Ultrasound Imaging Module: Report from the GRAPPA 2012 Annual Meeting
Authors: Kaeley Gurjit S.
Published: August 2013

At previous annual meetings of the Group for Research and Assessment of Psoriasis and Psoriatic Arthritis (GRAPPA), members resolved to develop dactylitis and enthesitis ultrasound research projects. Sonography can depict many anatomic alterations in the digits of patients with dactylitis and can also study vascularity of these tissues noninvasively. At the 2012 GRAPPA meeting, the ultrasound workgroup outlined steps in developing a dactylitis outcome measure: determining sonographic elemental lesions; testing to see which of these are the most discriminant in separating dactylitic digits from normal digits; selecting final elements for a sonographic dactylitis index; and conducting validity and reliability testing. A brief update of the enthesitis project was also presented.
Biomarkers: Project Update from the GRAPPA 2012 Annual Meeting
Authors: FitzGerald Oliver , Mease Philip J.
Published: August 2013

For members of the Group for Research and Assessment of Psoriasis and Psoriatic Arthritis (GRAPPA), an important goal has been the identification of soluble biomarkers in psoriatic arthritis that might predict the development of radiographic progression. Work over the past year has resulted in approval of a draft protocol, and an announcement is forthcoming of the outcome of an assessment process for centers that applied to manage the project. GRAPPA is now ready to commence formal negotiations with potential funding partners and intends to initiate this project in the near future.
La instauración del Almirantazgo de 1807 en La Habana: Lucha por el poder bajo la alargada sombra de Godoy
Authors: Vázquez Cienfuegos Sigfrido
Published: August 2013

En la difícil coyuntura política y económica de 1807-1808 se produjo un cambio institucional que pudo variar de manera importante la correlación de poderes en La Habana: la creación del Almirantazgo por Manuel Godoy en 1807. El intento de instauración de la institución influyó de manera significativa en el desarrollo de los acontecimientos en aquellos momentos claves en la historia de la isla. Sin embargo, la efímera existencia de la misma ha motivado que su influencia haya pasado casi desapercibida para los principales investigadores especializados en la época.
Entre la composición y el castigo. La actuación de las autoridades de la provincia de Buenos Aires frente a los robos cometidos por los indios amigos en la campaña (1832-1855)
Authors: Cutrera María Laura
Published: August 2013

El trabajo que presentamos se propone mostrar el impacto que tuvo la política porteña entre los indígenas a los que nos referimos atendiendo, especialmente, a los intentos de eliminar o regular los robos cometidos por aquellos. Así, estas páginas ponen en evidencia cómo se encontraron dos maneras de concebir y resolver un mismo problema. Si los indios amigos asociaban el robo a un daño que un miembro del grupo realizaba a otro y que, por lo tanto, requería de una reparación, las autoridades provinciales lo consideraban una infracción a la ley.
Política impositiva y cuestionamiento empresarial en el régimen neoconservador argentino (1940-1943)
Authors: Jáuregui Aníbal Pablo
Published: August 2013

En el período post crisis de 1929, la economía argentina sufrió modificaciones paulatinas tanto estructurales, como a nivel político e institucional. Entre éstas, la política fiscal que contemplaba nuevas necesidades económicas y fiscales. En 1942 en plena guerra, el gobierno conservador del Presidente Ramón Castillo lanzó un plan de reforma fiscal que motivó una viva reacción de las fuerzas sociales que eran su base de sustentación. Ello facilitó la crisis de un régimen político singular nacido en el comienzo de la debacle económica.
La enfermedad de Melibea: dos perspectivas médicas de la ægritudo amoris en Celestina
Authors: Amasuno Marcelino V.
Published: August 2013

La crítica tradicional siempre se ha mostrado benévola con uno de los más importantes personajes de Celestina, Melibea. Se ha tomado a la joven como ejemplar personificación de la heroína trágica, que se suicida en aras de un amor ya imposible. Si bien es verdad que esta valoración cuenta todavía con no pocos adeptos, también lo es que otros muchos no la perciben de manera tan indulgente y sí más cercana a las intenciones de su (último) creador, Femando de Rojas. Rastrear con detalle lo expuesto por los más caracterizados estudiosos que se atrincheran en esta última posición está muy lejos del propósito de estas líneas, aunque no huelga recordar —a título ilustrativo— los nombres de dos de ellos, Salvador de Madariaga y Eukene Lacarra Lanz.…
El perfil ciceroniano en el prólogo del Lazarillo
Authors: Ramajo Caño Antonio
Published: August 2013

Tras los esfuerzos de tantos investigadores, en particular de Francisco Rico, por dilucidar el sustrato de lecturas que configura el escrito liminar de nuestra novela, resulta arduo aportar alguna novedad al tema que el epígrafe del presente trabajo enuncia. Con todo, nos parece que la influencia de Cicerón en el prólogo del Lazarillo se aprecia no sólo en algunas huellas particulares, sino también en el espíritu sustentador del escrito. Intentamos, pues, en las siguientes líneas examinar conceptos que revisten el proemio novelesco de un perfil ciceroniano.…
Los comentarios a las Trescientas de Juan de Mena
Authors: Jiménez Calvente Teresa
Published: August 2013

Como es bien sabido, el humanismo no fue un movimiento literario-cultural preocupado tan sólo por la recuperación del latín clásico. Desde un primer momento, entre las disciplinas incluidas en los studia humanitatis, el renovado interés por la Poesía, la Retórica y la Gramática auspició el estudio minucioso y concienzudo de la lengua del Lacio; al mismo tiempo, los humanistas volvieron sus ojos hacia el griego, prácticamente olvidado durante la Edad Media y cuyo estudio se fue recuperando poco a poco; por fin, y de la mano precisamente de los estudios de Gramática, los humanistas se esforzaron en dignificar las diferentes lenguas vulgares. Este último fenómeno surgió, como otros, del primer Trecento italiano...
La historia de los dos enamorados Ozmín y Daraja, fuente de inspiración cervantina
Authors: Navarro Durán Rosa
Published: August 2013

En La española inglesa y en El amante liberal de Cervantes, puede advertirse la presencia de diseños narrativos de La historia de los dos enamorados Ozmín y Daraja; tal constatación nos da una fecha a quo para las dos novelas: la de la publicación de la Primera parte de Guzman de Alfarache (1599). También La ilustre fregona parece ofrecer un motivo de la novelita de Alemán, aunque más desdibujado. En El coloquio de los perros, es evidente la referencia a las digresiones del Guzmán, como ya han señalado estudiosos. Otras tres Novelas ejemplares (La señora Cornelia, La fuerza de la sangre y El licenciado Vidriera) ofrecen huellas de lectura de la Segunda parte de la vida de Guzmán de Alfarache (1604). Miguel de Cervantes leyó muy bien la obra de Mateo Alemán, y sus Novelas ejemplares lo ponen de manifiesto.
Un americanismo léxico de leyenda: Santiago como rayo en lengua de indios
Authors: Frago Gracia Juan Antonio
Published: August 2013

En este artículo se documenta un americanismo léxico, santiago como 'rayo', que al parecer no ha llegado a nuestros días, aunque esto sólo un mejor conocimiento dialectal del español de América lo podrá corroborar, pero que en el mundo andino tuvo vida cierta y es representativo de cómo los indígenas adaptaron en forma léxica la creencia hispánica en el Santiago Matamoros.
Un enfoque sugerente sobre la "lengua poética italiana"
Authors: Morreale Margherita
Published: August 2013

Se describe el bien documentado intento de poner el análisis del uso prosístico italiano en una base objetiva, se sugiere una extensión del esquema y se ofrecen algunos ejemplos comparables o contrastivos sacados del español.