bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evaluation of Suitability of Amaranthus Caudatus L. and Ricinus Communis L. in Phytoextraction of Cadmium and Lead from Contaminated Substrates
Authors: Bosiacki Maciej , Kleiber Tomasz , Kaczmarek Jakub
Published: July 2013

The phytoextraction is a process that uses living plants for cleaning up the heavy metals from contaminated soil. The cadmium and lead contamination of soils results from the application of sludge or urban composts, fertilizers, pesticides, motorization, metallurgy, and different technological processes. In industrial terrain the content of cadmium and lead in soils has increased in the recent years. This study was undertaken to evaluate the potential of Amaranthus caudatus L. ‘Atropurpureus’ and Ricinus communis L. ‘Sanguineus Apache’ for phytoextraction of cadmium and lead. Two species of ornament plants, i.e. Amaranthus caudatus L. ‘Atropurpureus’ and Ricinus communis L. ‘Sanguineus Apache’, were planted in drainless containers in a substrate artificially polluted with cadmium and lead in order to evaluate their suitability for phytoremediation of soils or substrates contaminated with these metals. Cadmium was applied at increasing rates of 0, 1, 5 and 10 mg Cd∙dm-3 in the form of cadmium sulfate 3CdSO4∙8H2O, while lead was used at 0, 100, 500 and 1000 mg Pb∙dm-3 in the form of lead acetate (CH3COO)2Pb∙3H2O. The applied doses of cadmium and lead in the experiment reflected different degrees of soil pollution. After five months of growth it was found that Amaranthus caudatus L. accumulated the biggest concentrations of cadmium and lead in leaves and the lowest concentrations in inflorescences. Ricinus communis L. accumulated the highest concentrations of cadmium in stems, while the lowest concentrations in inflorescences, whereas the biggest concentration of lead was accumulated in inflorescences and the least lead was accumulated in leaves. The biggest reduction of cadmium and lead concentrations after the completion of the experiment was found in substrates, in which Amaranthus caudatus L. was grown. The tested species of ornamental plants may be used in the phytoextraction of cadmium and lead from soils contaminated.
The Recovery of Yttrium and Europium Compounds from Waste Materials
Authors: Góralczyk Stefan , Uzunow Elżbieta
Published: July 2013

Rare earth metals including yttrium and europium are one of several critical raw materials, the use of which ensures the development of the so-called high technology. The possibility of their recovery in Europe is limited practically only to secondary materials such as phosphogypsum and electronic waste.

The article presents the results of our research concerning the development of recovery technology of yttrium and europium from luminophore CRT used lamps. It describes the principle of separation of elements and the test results of cleaning the concentrate. It was shown that the costs of preparing the concentrate according to the proposed technology are lower than the phosphogypsum processing technology and the composition of the resulting product does not contain hazardous substances.
The Toxicity of Aluminium Salts to Lecane Inermis Rotifers: Are Chemical and Biological Methods Used to Overcome Activated Sludge Bulking Mutually Exclusive?
Authors: Klimek Beata , Fiałkowska Edyta , Fyda Janusz , Kocerba-Soroka Wioleta , Pajdak-Stós Agnieszka , Sobczyk Łukasz
Published: July 2013

The aim of this study was to assess the effects of two flocculants that are often used to overcome activated sludge bulking problems - aluminium chloride, AlCl3, and aluminium sulphate, Al2(SO4)3 - on Lecaneinermis (Rotifera, Monogononta) at three different temperatures: 8, 15 and 20°C. The mean EC50 value (effective concentration, mg dm-3) calculated for the 24 h mortality test was 0.012 mg Al3+dm-3. Next, the effects of low concentrations of the Al-salts on the population development from single individuals (parthenogenetic females) were tested in a 21-day experiment. At concentrations as low as EC4.8 and EC0.48, both Al-salts affected rotifer population negatively. However, temperature was the most pronounced factor that modified the toxicity of the Al-salts to the rotifers. On the 12th day of the experiment, there were significant interactions between temperature and the Al-salts, indicating that the chemicals were more toxic to the rotifers at 20°C than at lower temperatures. The weaker rotifers sensitivity to Al-salts (especially to AlCl3) in temperatures below 15°C, when the biggest problems associated with sludge bulking occurs,may means use both rotifers and chemicals reasonable and effective.
Diagnosis of the Content of Selected Heavy Metals in the Soils of the Pałuki Region Against their Enzymatic Activity
Authors: Lemanowicz Joanna , Bartkowiak Agata
Published: July 2013

The paper presents the research results for the soils sampled from the area located in the eastern part of the Chodzieskie Lakes, between the Middle Noteć River Valley and the Wełna River Valley, the right tributary of the Warta River. The research involved 7 soil samples from the surface horizons, allocated to the cultivation of various plant species (cereals and vegetable crops). The following were determined in the soil material: the content of phytoavailable forms of selected heavy metals Zn, Cu, Pb, Ni, Fe and Mn, active and available to plants phosphorus against the activity of selected oxydo-reduction and hydrolytic enzymes. The soil under the vegetable crops showed a very high richness in phosphorus available to plants, which must have been related to an intensive fertilisation. There were identified relatively low contents of the available forms of the heavy metals investigated, the fact that points to their natural content in soil, which triggered the inhibition of neither the oxydo-reduction nor hydrolytic enzymes.
Photochemical Degradation of Sulfadiazine
Authors: Lemańska-Malinowska Natalia , Felis Ewa , Surmacz-Górska Joanna
Published: July 2013

The photochemical degradation of the sulfadiazine (SDZ) was studied. The photochemical processes used in degradation of SDZ were UV and UV/H2O2. In the experiments hydrogen peroxide was applied at different concentrations: 10 mg/dm3 (2.94*10-4 M), 100 mg/dm3 (2.94*10-3 M), 1 g/dm3 (2.94*10-2 M) and 10 g/dm3 (2.94*10-1 M). The concentrations of SDZ during the experiment were controlled by means of HPLC. The best results of sulfadiazine degradation, the 100% removal of the compound, were achieved by photolysis using UV radiation in the presence of 100 mg H2O2/dm3 (2.94*10-3 M). The determined rate constant of sulfadiazine reaction with hydroxyl radicals kOH was equal 1.98*109 M-1s-1.
The Operational Drought Hazard Assessment Scheme – Performance and Preliminary Results
Authors: Tokarczyk Tamara , Szalińska Wiwiana
Published: July 2013

Predicted climate change may have negative impact on many environmental components including vegetation by increase of evapotranspiration and reduction of available water resources. Moreover, a growing global population and extensive use of water for irrigation and industry result in increasing demand for water. Facing these threats, quantitative and qualitative protection of water resources requires development of tools for drought assessment and prediction to support effective decision making and mitigate the impacts of droughts. Therefore, the Institute of Meteorology and Water Management, National Research Institute has developed and implemented a set of tools for the operational drought hazard assessment. The developed tools cover drought indices estimation, assessment of sensitivity to it formation and drought hazard prediction. They are streamlined into an operational scheme combined with data assimilation routines and products generation procedures.

A drought hazard assessment scheme was designed to be implemented into the platform of a hydrological system supporting the operational work of hydrological forecast offices. The scheme was launched to run operationally for the selected catchments of the Odra River and the Wisla River basins. The crucial resulting products are presented on the website operated by IMWM-NRI: POSUCH@ (Operational System for Providing Drought Prediction and Characteristics) (http://posucha.imgw.pl/). The paper presents the scheme and preliminary results obtained for the drought event which began in August 2011.
Effect of Phosphorous Loadings on Macrophytes Structure and Trophic State of Dam Reservoir on a Small Lowland River (Eastern Poland)
Authors: Tarkowska-Kukuryk Monika
Published: July 2013

The main objective of the study was to evaluate if macrophytes structure and trophic status of dam reservoir Kraśnik on a small lowland river Wyżnica are determined by phosphorous loadings. Studies were conducted seasonally in May, July and October during the years 2008-2009. Samples were taken at four sites: Site 1 - inflow of the Wyżnica River to pre-dam, Site 2 − pre-dam, Site 3 − dam reservoir and Site 4 - outflow of the Wyżnica River from dam reservoir. Physical and chemical parameters (temperature, Secchi disc depth, dissolved oxygen, pH, conductivity, total suspension, chlorophyll-a, TP and P-PO4) were measured in water samples. Together with water parameters there were estimated biomass of phytoplankton and species composition and biomass of emergent, floating-leaved and submerged macrophytes. Concentrations of TP, chlorophyll-a and Secchi disc depth were used to calculate trophic state index of Carlsson for dam reservoir and its pre-dam. Based on mean water current, mean residence time of water in dam reservoir and concentrations of TP and P-PO4 loadings (g m-2) flowing into dam reservoir with the Wyżnica River were calculated. The results showed visible negative effect of phosphorous loadings on both macrophytes composition and trophic state of the reservoir. The marked changes concerned soft vegetation. High P loadings (7.74 g m-2 of TP and 6.03 g m-2 P-PO4) during the spring of 2008 caused the disappearance of characeans meadows. In 2009, the presence of rigid hornwort (Ceratophyllum demersum L.), the species typical for eutrophic lakes was noted. This unrooted submerged plant uptakes dissolved orthophosphates directly from the water column.

Values of Carlsson index (51.4 ≤ TSI ≤ 68.2) indicate the eutrophic state of dam reservoir Kraśnik. During summer season in dam reservoir there were observed algal blooms (biomass of phytoplankton exceed 10 mg WW dm-3) and low water transparency (Secchi disc depth ranged from 0.4 to 0.65 m). During the two-year studies in dam reservoir Kraśnik a high reduction of P loadings, mostly dissolved orthophosphates was observed. Dependently on season, reduction of P-PO4 loadings ranged from 52% (July 2008) up to 91% (May 2009). The reduction of TP was lower and reached values from 15% (May 2008) to 48% (July 2009).
Ontogenetic and intraspecific variation in the late Emsian – Eifelian (Devonian) conodonts Polygnathus serotinus and P. bultyncki in the Prague Basin (Czech Republic) and Nevada (western U.S.)
Authors: Klapper Gilbert , Vodrážková Stanislava
Published: July 2013

Klapper, G. and Vodražkova, S. 2013. Ontogenetic and intraspecific variation in the late Emsian - Eifelian (Devonian) conodonts Polygnathus serotinus and P. bultyncki in the Prague Basin (Czech Republic) and Nevada (western U.S.). Acta Geologica Polonica, 63 (2), 153-174, Warszawa.

Samples from populations of Polygnathus serotinus Telford 1975 and P. bultyncki Weddige 1977 from the Prague Basin and Nevada display normal variation for Devonian conodont species. A considerable number of previous authors, however, have proposed unnecessary synonyms of these two species, primarily because they have not recognized ontogenetic variation. In contrast, we interpret the variation as ontogenetic as well as intraspecific and present detailed synonymies as a result. A third species, P. praetrigonicus Bardashev 1992, which has been carried in open nomenclature for many years, is an important indicator of the basal costatus Zone in the Prague Basin, New York, and Nevada. We review the stratigraphic distribution of these three species and the conodont zonation across the Emsian-Eifelian (Lower-Middle Devonian) boundary. Polygnathus pseudocostatus sp. nov. (partitus-costatus zones, central Nevada) is described herein. We have observed a decrease in the pit size during ontogeny in P. bultyncki although we have not measured enough specimens to rule out intraspecific versus ontogenetic variation.
A revised inoceramid biozonation for the Upper Cretaceous based on high-resolution carbon isotope stratigraphy in northwestern Hokkaido, Japan
Authors: Hayakawa Tatsuya , Hirano Hiromichi
Published: July 2013

Hayakawa, T., Hirano, H. 2013. A revised inoceramid biozonation for the Upper Cretaceous based on high-resolution carbon isotope stratigraphy in northwestern Hokkaido, Japan. Acta Geologica Polonica, 63 (2), 239-263. Warszawa.

Biostratigraphic correlations of inoceramid bivalves between the North Pacific and Euramerican provinces have been difficult because the inoceramid biostratigraphy of the Japanese strata has been based on endemic species of the northwest Pacific. In this study, carbon stable isotope fluctuations of terrestrial organic matter are assembled for the Upper Cretaceous Yezo Group in the Haboro and Obira areas, Hokkaido, Japan, in order to revise the chronology of the inoceramid biozonation in Japan. The carbon isotope curves are correlated with those of marine carbonates in English and German sections with the aid of age-diagnostic taxa. According to the correlations of the carbon isotope curves, 11 isotope events are recognised in the sections studied. As a result of these correlations, the chronology of the inoceramid biozones of the Northwest Pacific has been considerably revised. The revised inoceramid biozones suggest that the timing of the origination and extinction of the inoceramids in the North Pacific biotic province is different from the stage/substage boundaries defined by inoceramids, as used in Europe and North America.
Phosphorus minerals in tonstein; coal seam 405 at Sośnica-Makoszowy coal mine, Upper Silesia, southern Poland
Authors: Kokowska-Pawłowska Magdalena , Nowak Jacek
Published: July 2013

Kokowska-Pawłowska, M. and Nowak, J. 2013. Phosphorus minerals in tonstein; coal seam 405 at Sośnica- Makoszowy coal mine, Upper Silesia, southern Poland. Acta Geologica Polonica, 63 (2), 271-281. Warszawa.

The paper presents results of research on tonstein, which constitutes an interburden in coal seam 405 at the Sośnica- Makoszowy coal mine, Makoszowy field (mining level 600 m), Upper Silesia, southern Poland. The mineral and chemical compositions of the tonstein differ from the typical compositions described earlier for tonsteins from Upper Silesia Coal Basin area. Additionally, minerals present in the tonsteins include kaolinite, quartz, kaolinitised biotite and feldspars. The presence of the phosphatic minerals apatite and goyazite has been recognized. The presence of gorceixite and crandallite is also possible. The contents of CaO (5.66 wt%) and P2O5 (6.2 wt%) are remarkably high. Analysis of selected trace elements demonstrated high contents of Sr (4937 ppm) and Ba (4300 ppm), related to the phosphatic minerals. On the basis of mineral composition the tonstein has been identified as a crystalline tonstein, transitional to a multiplied one.
Application of a Radial Turbine 1-D Model
Authors: Žák Zdeněk , Vítek Oldřich , Macek Jan
Published: July 2013

Shrnutí

Članek, na několika přikladech, popisuje simulace s využitim 1-D modelu radialni turbiny turbodmychadla. Cilem je popsat současny stav a ukazat potencial 1-D přistupu v oblasti modelovani turbodmychadla. Pro možnost testovani modelů turbiny a kompresoru byly vyvinuty rozmanite simulačni nastroje. Model turbinoveho testovaciho stavu umožňuje provozovat turbinu v široke provozni oblasti. Model zkušebniho stavu turbodmychadel se spalovaci komorou je vhodny pro přiřazeni kompresoru turbině. Članek uzaviraji vysledky fungovani modelu turbiny ve spojeni s modelem virtualniho čtyřtaktniho zažehoveho motoru.
Measuring the Yaw Moment of Inertia of a Vehicle
Authors: Hejtmánek Petr , Blaťák Ondřej , Kučera Pavel , Porteš Petr , Vančura Jan
Published: July 2013

Shrnutí

Članek popisuje postup určeni momentu setrvačnosti vozidla ke svisle ose. Je navržen měřici stav pro měřeni momentu setrvačnosti založeny na principu fyzikalniho kyvadla a je analyzovan vliv chyby měřeni periody kmitu na celkovou chybu určeni momentu setrvačnosti. V programu Labview je sestaven vypočtovy postup pro přesne určeni periody kmitaveho pohybu z naměřenych dat. Funkčnost celeho měřiciho postupu je ověřena stanovenim přesnosti a opakovatelnosti měřeni.
Testing of Modern Vehicles on a 2Wd Roller Test Bench
Authors: Gotfrýd Ondřej , Klír Vojtěch , Drda Jiří
Published: July 2013

Shrnutí

Pro zkoušeni většiny vozidel s jednou pohaněnou napravou je zakladni provedeni vozidlovych dynamometrů s jednou dvojici valců plně vyhovujici. Problem při měřeni však může nastat v připadě netolerantnosti modernich asistenčnich systemů (ESP, ASR), ktere kvůli neotačejicim se kolům nepohaněne napravy, neumožni rozjezd vozidla. Tato situace je typicka zejmena u vozidel s hybridnim pohonnym ustrojim. Članek popisuje upravu vozidloveho dynamometru s jednou dvojici valců tak, aby bylo možne zajistit otačeni kol nepohaněne napravy simultanně s pohaněnymi koly. Zařizeni bylo uspěšně vyzkoušeno při měřeni automobilu s hybridnim pohonnym ustrojim v paralelnim uspořadani. V textu jsou zaroveň uvedeny některe poznatky ziskane z měřeni.
Effects of nandrolone on recovery after neurotization of chronically denervated muscle in a rat model
Authors: Isaacs Jonathan , Feher Joseph , Shall Mary , Vota Scott , Fox Michael A. , Mallu Satya , Razavi Ashkon , Friebe Ilvy , Shah Sagar , Spita Nathalie
Published: July 2013

Object

Suboptimal recovery following repair of major peripheral nerves has been partially attributed to denervation atrophy. Administration of anabolic steroids in conjunction with neurotization may improve functional recovery of chronically denervated muscle. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effect of the administration of nandrolone on muscle recovery following prolonged denervation in a rat model.

Methods

Eight groups of female Sprague-Dawley rats (15 rats per group, 120 in all) were divided into 3- or 6-month denervated hind limb and sham surgery groups and, then, nandrolone treatment groups and sham treatment groups. Evaluation of treatment effects included nerve conduction, force of contraction, comparative morphology, histology (of muscle fibers), protein electrophoresis (for muscle fiber grouping), and immunohistochemical evaluation.

Results

Although a positive trend was noted, neither reinnervated nor normal muscle showed a statistically significant increase in peak muscle force following nandrolone treatment. Indirect measures, including muscle mass (weight and diameter), muscle cell size, muscle fiber type, and satellite cell counts, all failed to support significant anabolic effect.

Conclusions

There does not seem to be a functional benefit from nandrolone treatment following reinnervation of either mild or moderately atrophic muscle (related to prolonged denervation) in a rodent model.
Postoperative ischemic changes after glioma resection identified by diffusion-weighted magnetic resonance imaging and their association with intraoperative motor evoked potentials
Authors: Gempt Jens , Krieg Sandro M. , Hüttinger Stefanie , Buchmann Niels , Ryang Yu-Mi , Shiban Ehab , Meyer Bernhard , Zimmer Claus , Förschler Annette , Ringel Florian
Published: July 2013

Object

The aim of surgical glioma treatment is the complete resection of tumor tissue while preserving neurological function. Surgery-related neurological deficits arise from direct damage to the cortical or subcortical structures or from ischemia. The authors aimed to assess the incidence of resection-related ischemia of newly diagnosed or recurrent supratentorial gliomas and the sensitivity of intraoperative neuromonitoring (IOM) of motor evoked potentials (MEPs) for detecting such ischemic events and their influence on neurological motor function.

Methods

Between January 2009 and December 2010, 70 patients with tumors in motor-eloquent brain areas underwent intraoperative MEP monitoring during glioma resection and were examined by early postoperative MRI including diffusion-weighted imaging (DWI) and apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) mapping. Postoperative areas of restricted diffusion were assessed by investigators blinded to the course of intraoperative MEPs and the neurological course.

Results

Among the 70 enrolled patients, a MEP amplitude decline below 50% of the baseline level was observed in 21 patients (30%). Sixteen of these patients (76%) had ischemic lesions identified on postoperative MRI scans. Forty-nine patients (70%) showed no decline in MEP amplitude, and only 16 (33%) of these patients harbored ischemic lesions. Moreover, 9 (69%) of 13 patients with a permanent loss of MEP amplitude showed postoperative ischemic lesions. Factors that promoted the occurrence of postoperative infarction were previous radiotherapy and location of the tumor close to the central arteries.

Conclusions

Alterations in the MEP amplitude during tumor resection and postoperative ischemic lesions are associated with postoperative impairment of motor function. Rather than cortical or subcortical structural damage of eloquent brain tissue alone, peri- or postoperative ischemic lesions play a crucial role in the development of surgery-related motor deficits.
Preoperative ultrasound-guided mapping of peripheral nerves
Authors: Gofeld Michael , Bristow Sandee J. , Chiu Sheila , Kliot Michel
Published: July 2013

Object

Surgical exposure of a peripheral nerve can be technically challenging, making the operation more extensive and time consuming, particularly in the treatment of small nerves with an anatomically variable position. This study describes the application of ultrasound to facilitate surgical access and localization of targeted peripheral nerves.

Methods

A preclinical feasibility study was performed at the University of Washington's Willed Body Program laboratory. Unembalmed cadavers were placed on the dissection table in positions mimicking those typically required for surgical access to specific nerves that can be challenging to localize. A high-frequency portable ultrasound system was used to identify the nerves. An extraneural injection of methylene blue immediately adjacent to the target nerve was performed under ultrasound guidance as the experimental nerve mapping procedure. Surgical dissections through a small skin incision parallel to skin tension lines were guided by the transducer position and angle. Success was determined by the accuracy and rapidity of surgical identification and exposure of the nerve.

Results

Using ultrasound-guided mapping, all anticipated peripheral nerves were correctly identified via a direct approach from the skin incision. This was confirmed by performing an anatomical dissection to expose and identify the intended nerve and its relation to the injected methylene blue dye. In no case was intraneural injection of the dye observed.

Conclusions

Preoperative ultrasound-guided nerve mapping may be useful in facilitating surgical access to a targeted nerve and thereby minimizing tissue dissection and operating time.
Association between low-back pain and lumbar spine bone density: a population-based cross-sectional study
Authors: Lee Sungkyu , Nam Chung Mo , Yoon Do Heum , Kim Keung Nyun , Yi Seong , Shin Dong Ah , Ha Yoon
Published: July 2013

Object

The authors undertook this study to investigate the relationships between low-back pain (LBP) and spinal bone density. Low-back pain is a major health issue and contributes to increases in medical and economic costs. Epidemiological studies have identified individual, sociodemographic, psychosocial, and occupational risk factors for LBP. However, there have been limited studies addressing the relationships between LBP and spinal bone density.

Methods

Data were obtained from the population-based Fourth Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (K-NHANES IV, 2009). From 10,533 K-NHANES participants, the authors identified 7144 (3099 men and 4045 women) 21 years of age or older who underwent dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry and anthropometric measurements for inclusion in this study. Low-back pain patients were defined as those who had been diagnosed with LBP by a medical doctor. Chi-square tests, t-tests, and multivariable logistic regression analyses were used to examine the relationships between LBP and spinal bone density.

Results

The total prevalence of LBP in the patient sample was 17.1%. More females (21.0%) reported LBP than males (12.1%). A number of sociodemographic and medical factors—sex, age, place of residence, occupation, education, hypertension, diabetes mellitus, and depression—were all associated with LBP, while LBP was not associated with income or exercise levels. Regression analyses indicated that higher lumbar spine T-scores (OR 1.11, 95% CI 1.02–1.20) were associated with LBP.

Conclusions

Higher bone density in the lumbar spine is associated with LBP, independent of confounding factors such as sociodemographic status, education, and medical-psychiatric disorders. Cause and effect relationship between higher bone density and LBP, such as degenerative changes in spine, requires further investigation.
Macrovascular decompression of the median nerve for posttraumatic neuralgic limb pain
Authors: Pabaney Aqueel , Hervey-Jumper Shawn L. , Domino Joseph , Maher Cormac O. , Yang Lynda J. S.
Published: July 2013

Neuropathic pain is rare in children, and few reports provide adequate guidelines for treatment. The authors describe the successful treatment of tardy neuropathic pain via macrovascular decompression in a 15-year-old boy who presented with progressive pain 11 years following trauma to the upper extremity that had required surgical repair of the brachial artery. Examination revealed mild chronic median and ulnar motor neuropathy as well as recent progressive lancinating pain and a Tinel sign at the prior scar. A soft tissue mass in the neurovascular bundle at the site of previous injury was noted on MRI. Surgical exploration demonstrated an altered anatomical relationship of the previously repaired brachial artery and the median nerve, resulting in pulsatile compression of the median nerve by the brachial artery. Neurolysis and decompression of the median nerve with physical separation from the brachial artery resulted in immediate pain relief.

This is the first report of macrovascular decompression of a major peripheral nerve with complete symptom resolution. Noninvasive imaging together with a thorough history and physical examination can support identification of this potential etiology of peripheral neuralgic pain. Recognition and treatment of this uncommon problem may yield improved outcomes for children with neuropathic pain.
Ruptured temporal lobe arachnoid cyst presenting with severe back pain
Authors: Lohani Subash , Robertson Richard L. , Proctor Mark R.
Published: July 2013

Arachnoid cyst is a common congenital anomaly in the pediatric population. The cysts are often asymptomatic, but they can cause headache and other symptoms. Occasionally a cyst may rupture after head trauma producing a subdural hematoma. The authors present the case of an 11-year-old boy who presented after a week of progressive and severe back pain radiating to the back of his thighs. Imaging revealed a spinal subdural blood collection at the L4–S1 level. This finding prompted further cephalad imaging of the spine and the brain, which revealed a sylvian fissure arachnoid cyst with intracystic hemorrhage and frontoparietal subdural hematoma. The child did not have headache at this time, although he had experienced chronic headaches since the age of 4 years. He was treated with a course of oral steroids, which immediately relieved his back and leg pain. Subsequent imaging showed resolution of the cranial and spinal subdural blood collections and diminished size of the arachnoid cyst. No surgical treatment was necessary.
Anterior sacral pseudomeningocele following minimal trauma
Authors: Cools Michael J. , Al-Holou Wajd N. , Stetler William R. , La Marca Frank , Valdivia-Valdivia Juan M.
Published: July 2013

Sacral fractures are rare and seldom result in formation of a sacral pseudomeningocele. Treatment of these pseudomeningoceles usually consists of conservative management with flat bedrest or open operative management. The authors describe the case of a 55-year-old woman with an anterior sacral pseudomeningocele that was successfully treated using a lumbar drain for temporary continuous CSF drainage. The patient first presented to an outside institution several days after sacral trauma from an ice skating fall. Initial symptoms included throbbing headaches relieved by lying flat. Head and cervical spine CT demonstrated no abnormality. As symptoms worsened, she presented to another institution where MRI of the lumbar spine indicated sacral fracture with pseudomeningocele. The patient subsequently transferred to the authors' facility, where symptoms included headaches and occasional mild sacral pain. Given her headaches and the authors' concern for CSF leak, another head CT scan was performed. This revealed no subdural hematoma or other abnormality. A subsequent CT myelogram revealed an anterior sacral pseudomeningocele at S3–4 with an anterior irregular linear filling defect, likely representing torn dura. Treatment included placement of a lumbar drain (10 ml/hr) and flat bedrest. Resolution of the CSF leak occurred on postprocedure Day 9. At the 4-week follow-up visit, the patient had no clinical symptoms of CSF leak and no neurological complaints. To our knowledge, this is the first description of temporary continuous CSF drainage used to treat a posttraumatic sacral pseudomeningocele. This technique may reduce the need for potentially complicated surgical repair of sacral fractures associated with CSF leak in select patients.
Circulatory collapse after topical application of vancomycin powder during spine surgery
Authors: Mariappan Ramamani , Manninen Pirjo , Massicotte Eric M. , Bhatia Anuj
Published: July 2013

A hypersensitivity reaction, either anaphylactic or anaphylactoid, is a well-known adverse effect following intravenous and oral administration of vancomycin. The authors report a case of circulatory collapse and its management after the topical application of vancomycin powder during spinal instrumentation surgery. A 52-year-old woman with breast cancer and metastasis to her spine underwent a vertebrectomy of the T-10 vertebra with instrumented reconstruction from T-8 to T-12. The patient was hemodynamically stable during most of the procedure despite a 2-L blood loss requiring administration of crystalloids, colloids, packed red blood cells, and fresh-frozen plasma. During closure of the subcutaneous layer, there was a sudden drop in blood pressure from 120/60 to 30/15 mm Hg and an increase in heart rate from 95 to 105 bpm. No skin erythema or rash was visible, and there was no bronchospasm or increase in airway pressure. The patient was treated with fluids, boluses of ephedrine, phenylephrine, and adrenaline. The operation was completed and the patient woke up neurologically intact but did require blood pressure support with a norepinephrine infusion for the next 4 hours. She was discharged from hospital in a good clinical state on the 4th postoperative day. It was speculated that the rapid absorption of vancomycin powder applied on the surgical wound caused an anaphylactoid reaction and the circulatory collapse. With an increase in the use of topical vancomycin in surgical wounds, communication and awareness among all intraoperative team members is important for rapid diagnosis of an adverse reaction and for appropriate management.
Less invasive mini-open adult spinal deformity surgery
Authors: Wang Michael Y.
Published: July 2013

Adult spinal deformities (ASD) pose a challenge for the spinal surgeon. Because the spine is often rigid, mobilization of the segments is critical for effective correction, particularly in the sagittal plane. While minimally invasive surgery (MIS) has many favorable attributes that would be of great benefit for the ASD population, improvements in lordosis and sagittal balance have remained problematic using MIS approaches, including MIS lateral methods. This video illustrates one method for achieving improvement of coronal and sagittal correction without the extensive exposure and soft tissue envelope disruption needed in open surgery, particularly for less severe deformities. By using multi-level TLIFs through a mini-open surgery, curves of less than 60° can be managed with minimal blood loss and within a reasonable surgical timeframe. While feasibility will have to be proven with larger series and improved surgical methods, this technique holds promise as a means of reducing the significant morbidity associated with surgery in the ASD population.

The video can be found here: http://youtu.be/I0rkDSAVas0.
Mini-open transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion
Authors: Amin Beejal Y. , Tu Tsung-Hsi , Mummaneni Praveen V.
Published: July 2013

The potential advantages of a mini-open transforaminal interbody fusion (TLIF) operation are reduced blood loss, shorter length of stay, and less soft-tissue trauma compared to the standard open technique. Prior reports from our group and others have demonstrated successful outcomes using MIS techniques in lumbar fusion surgery.

In this 3D video, we demonstrate the key steps of the mini-open technique for a transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion using an expandable tubular retractor and contralateral percutaneous screw fixation for the treatment of a multiple recurrent disc herniation. The video demonstrates patient positioning, surgical opening with development of the Wiltse plane, placement of the tubular retractor, pedicle screw placement through both a percutaneous technique and a mini-open technique, decompression of the neural elements, graft insertion, and wound closure.

The video can be found here: http://youtu.be/LYRU9lbBdNg.
Minimally invasive unilateral approach for bilateral decompression of spinal stenosis and modified transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion for degenerative spondylolisthesis
Authors: Chen Kevin S. , Than Khoi D. , LaMarca Frank , Park Paul
Published: July 2013

This video describes a minimally invasive approach for treatment of symptomatic grade I spondylolisthesis and high-grade spinal stenosis. In this procedure, a unilateral approach for bilateral decompression is utilized in conjunction with a modified transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion and percutaneous pedicle screw fixation. The key steps in the procedure are outlined, and include positioning, fluoroscopic positioning/guidance, exposure with tubular retractor system, technique for ipsilateral and contra-lateral decompression, disc space preparation and interbody grafting, percutaneous pedicle screw and rod placement, and closure.

The video can be found here: http://youtu.be/QTymO4Cu4B0.
Stabilization of the sacroiliac joint with the SI-Bone surgical technique
Authors: Geisler Fred
Published: July 2013

Although the motion of the sacroiliac joints (SIJ) is minimal, pain can originate from the SIJ on mechanical loading and affect walking, sitting and sleep patterns. The SIJ refers to the pair of joints inferior to the L5-S1 joint, and functions as the inferior adjacent level after a L5-S1 fusion.

SIJ pain has a clinical overlay of symptoms often similar to low back pain (LBP) generated by the lumbar spine. The differential diagnosis in any patient with LBP should include the triad of low back, SIJ, and hip. SIJ pain is also a known cause of residual LBP after successful lumbar fusion. Relief of the patient's pain with a diagnostic SIJ block verifies the SIJ as the site of the pain generator.

The SI-bone technique of stabilization of the SIJ is a true minimally invasive surgical technique performed through an initial small skin incision and then over pins, with the aid of fluoroscopy in three orthogonal axes with one axis parallel to the posterior sacral cortical line at the S1 to S2 region.

The fluoroscopy procedure includes the following steps: 1) pre-op plan of the desired 3 implant trajectories to account for the anatomic variations; 2) placement of 3 Steinman pins at these trajectories across the SIJ starting in a small skin incision; 3) drill, broach and then implant placement as a cannulated system. All these steps are performed with the assistance of fluoroscopy in all three imaging planes – lateral, inlet and outlet views. The SI-Bone implants are triangular shaped titanium and have a rough surface for immediate stability. This rough surface is believed to aid in the osteo-fixation of the implants to the ilium and sacrum, as well as to long term fusion of the SIJ after its prolonged immobilization.

The video can be found here: http://youtu.be/2YtFddohZRk.
Four-level minimally invasive lateral interbody fusion for treatment of degenerative scoliosis
Authors: Amin Beejal Y. , Mummaneni Praveen V. , Ibrahim Tarik , Zouzias Alex , Uribe Juan
Published: July 2013

The benefits of anterior interbody arthrodesis in deformity surgery are well known and include load sharing and increased fusion rates. A minimally invasive lateral transpsoas approach to the anterior lumbar spine is a promising alternative to traditional interbody techniques for the treatment of adult degenerative scoliosis. The reported advantages of the minimally invasive lateral transpsoas approach include reduced blood loss and shorter length of stay. However, there are several approach-related complications associated with this technique including injury to the nerves within the abdominal wall leading to abdominal wall paresis, bowel injury, and injury to the lumbar plexus.

In this video, we demonstrate the key steps of the minimally invasive lateral retroperitoneal transpsoas technique for interbody fusion in the treatment of adult degenerative scoliosis.

The video demonstrates patient positioning, surgical opening, passage through the anatomical safe zone, use of multidirectional EMG to navigate away from the lumbar plexus, placement of the expandable retractor, discectomy, endplate preparation, graft insertion, and wound closure. Special emphasis is placed on the approach. We highlight the relevant nerves passing through the abdominal wall with the aid of a microscope.

The video can be found here: http://youtu.be/XU1OujNF8F8.
A novel approach to the lumbar sympathetic chain: lateral access
Authors: Rodgers Shaun D. , Engler John A. , Perin Noel L.
Published: July 2013

Plantar hyperhydrosis is a disabling condition of excessive, symmetric, focal sweating of the feet with social, psychological, and medical implications. Treatment options include topical agents, iontophoresis, botulinum toxin injection, and surgical disruption of the lumbar sympathetic chain.

Surgical corridors include transperitoneal and retroperitoneal approaches. We report our technique with a novel minimally invasive lateral retroperitoneal approach commonly used for lateral interbody fusions. The lateral approach for sectioning of the sympathetic chain in the treatment of hyperhydrosis appears safe. The approach may be advantageous for the patient and surgeons familiar with lateral interbody fusion. Further studies may elucidate the long term efficacy and safety of the lateral approach.

The video can be found here: http://youtu.be/Q82SGpmAXng.
Anterior to psoas fusion of the lumbar spine
Authors: Gragnaniello Cristian , Seex Kevin A.
Published: July 2013

Lateral interbody cages have proven useful in lumbar fusion surgery. Spanning both lateral cortical rims while sparing the anterior longitudinal ligament, they restore disc height, improve coronal balance and add stability. The standard approach to their insertion is 90 degrees lateral transpsoas which is bloodless compared to other techniques of interbody cage insertion but requires neuro-monitoring and at L4/5 can be difficult because of iliac crest obstruction or an anterior plexus position. The oblique muscle-splitting approach with the patient in a lateral position, remains retroperitoneal, and on the left side enters the disc space through a window between psoas and the common iliac vein. Reports of this approach are few and none previously have described how to use the large lateral-type cages so effective at restoring spinal alignment. In this video we demonstrate our technique of anterior to psoas fusion of the lumbar spine with a retroperitoneal approach and gentle retraction of the psoas muscle.

The video can be found here: http://youtu.be/OS2vNcX9JMA.
Minimally invasive surgery for lumbar microdiscectomy
Authors: Kimball Jon , Yew Andrew , Lu Daniel C.
Published: July 2013

Symptomatic disc herniation is a common indication for spinal operations. The open microscopic discectomy has been the traditional method of addressing this pathology, but minimally invasive techniques are increasingly popular.

Potential advantages of the MIS microdiscectomy approach include decreased muscle and soft tissue disruption, shorter length of stay and decreased postoperative pain. Here we demonstrate an MIS microdiscectomy on a 24-year-old female with a left L-4 and L-5 radiculopathy secondary to a large L4–5 disc herniation.

The video can be found here: http://youtu.be/aXyZ2FJMh2s.
Minimally invasive tubular surgery for transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion
Authors: Kimball Jon , Yew Andrew , Getachew Ruth , Lu Daniel C.
Published: July 2013

Transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion (TLIF) was originally developed as a method for circumferential fusion via a single posterior approach and is now an extremely common procedure for the treatment of lumbar instability. More recently, minimally invasive techniques have been applied to this procedure with the goal of decreasing tissue disruption, blood loss and postoperative patient discomfort. Here we describe a minimally invasive tubular TLIF on a 60-year-old male with radiculopathy from an unstable L4–5 spondylolisthesis.

The video can be found here: http://youtu.be/0BbxQiUmtRc.
Lateral lumbar interbody fusion
Authors: Kanter Adam S. , Gandhoke Gurpreet S.
Published: July 2013

Since its inception in the year 2001 the minimally invasive trans-psoas Lateral Lumbar Interbody Fusion (LLIF) approach has gained significant favor among spine surgeons. It is now routinely utilized to treat an array of spinal pathologies including degenerative disc disease, low grade spondylolisthesis, and adult spinal deformity. The intent of this video is to provide a step by step account of the basic procedural details when performing the LLIF procedure for a single level broad based degenerated lumbar disc with herniation.

The video can be found here: http://youtu.be/dZFMqmCz6Q8.
Application of Cobalt Chloride and Silver Nitrate for Efficient Microspore Culture of Brassica rapa ssp.
Authors: Kabir Khandakar Md. Rayhanul , Kwon Soon-Wook , Park Yong-Jin
Published: July 2013

The effects of ethylene antagonistic cobalt chloride and silver nitrate, on microspore embryogenesis were investigated using three different concentrations in the medium for three Korean cultivars (two non-heading and one heading) of Brassica rapa ssp. Inclusion of cobalt chloride (5 μM ) in the culture medium significantly improved embryo production in the non-heading cultivar (33 embryos/bud) with embryo yields being increased up to 32%. The addition of silver nitrate (0.1 mg/l) to the culture medium also showed a progressive increase in embryo yields in the non-heading cultivar (34 embryos/bud) with embryo yields being increased up to 36%. For the heading cultivars, the highest embryogenic response was 2.8 embryos/bud (Jo saeng Miho), following the addition of silver nitrate (0.1 mg/l) to the culture medium, whereas 2.4 embryos/bud were observed with the addition of 5 μM cobalt chloride to the culture medium.

Plant Tissue Cult. & Biotech. 23(1): 1-10, 2013 (June)
Genotype Independent Regeneration and Agrobacterium?mediated Genetic Transformation of Sweet Potato (Ipomoea batatas L.)
Authors: Shekhar Shubhendu , Agrawal Lalit , Buragohain Alak Kumar , Datta Asis , Chakraborty Subhra , Chakraborty Niranjan
Published: July 2013

Development of an efficient genotype independent regeneration and genetic transformation system in sweet potato continues to be of great interest. Agrobacterium?mediated genetic transformation protocol was established in two different cultivars of sweet potato using Agrobacterium strain EHA105 harbouring binary plasmid pBI121 containing GUS and nptII genes. The internodal stem segments from 30?day?old micropropogated plants were used as explant with different combinations of media and hormones. MS and LS media with various concentrations of growth regulators proved to be non?responsive and the infecundity was severe with the addition of cytokinins. Nonetheless, MS with 2,4?D and TDZ gave a good percentage of callusing but with low differentiation. In different concentrations of NAA, significant amount of callusing was observed but percentage of rooting remained low in both the genotypes. Gamborgs B5 supplemented with NAA proved to be the most suitable media and hormone combination, which yielded shoot formation after 8 ? 10 weeks with a regenera? tion efficiency of 40 ? 70%. Stable integration of transgene was confirmed by PCR analysis. Furthermore, qRT?PCR analysis was performed to assess the transcript accumulation in addition to the GUS enzymatic assay in the transgenic lines.Plant Tissue Cult. & Biotech. 23(1): 87?100, 2013 (June)DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/ptcb.v23i1.15565D.O.I. 10.3329/ptcb.v23i1.15565
Organogenesis of Ammi majus via Callus Culture from Leaf
Authors: Magdum Sandip , Kumar Sanjeev
Published: July 2013

Plant Tissue Cult. & Biotech. 23(1): 101?106, 2013 (June)DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/ptcb.v23i1.15566
The Effect of Hormonal Composition, Type of Explant and Light Condition on Callus Production in Periwinkle (Catharanthus roseus L.)
Authors: Akhar Fatemeh Keykha , Bagheri Abdolreza
Published: July 2013

Plant Tissue Cult. & Biotech. 23(1): 107?113, 2013 (June)DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/ptcb.v23i1.15567
Evidence of Floral Reversion during In vitro Shoot Regeneration from Young Inflorescence of the Medicinal Geophyte Gloriosa superba L.
Authors: Sen Supriyo , Krishnasamy V. , Krishnaveni S. , Vijayalakshmi C. , Rajamani K. , Gnanam R.
Published: July 2013

Plant Tissue Cult. & Biotech. 23(1): 115?120, 2013 (June)DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/ptcb.v23i1.15568
Autonomy, Conformity and Organizational Learning
Authors: Hanaki Nobuyuki , Owan Hideo
Published: July 2013

There is often said to be a tension between the two types of organizational learning activities, exploration and exploitation. The argument goes that the two activities are substitutes, competing for scarce resources when firms need different capabilities and management policies. We present another explanation, attributing the tension to the dynamic interactions among search, knowledge sharing, evaluation and alignment within organizations. Our results show that successful organizations tend to bifurcate into two types: those that always promote individual initiatives and build organizational strengths on individual learning and those good at assimilating the individual knowledge base and exploiting shared knowledge. Straddling the two types often fails. The intuition is that an equal mixture of individual search and assimilation slows down individual learning, while at the same time making it difficult to update organizational knowledge because individuals’ knowledge base is not sufficiently homogenized. Straddling is especially inefficient when the operation is sufficiently complex or when the business environment is sufficiently turbulent.