bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Faktor-Faktor Yang Mempengaruhi Efektivitas Kelembagaan Petani (Kasus di Provinsi Jawa Tengah)
Authors: Anantanyu Sapja , Sumardjo Sumardjo , Slamet Margono , Tjitropranoto Prabowo
Published: May 2017

The effectiveness farmer’s institutions were needed for the agricultural development in globalization economic era. Economic indicators, agricultural infrastructures, and government policy often cause small farmer to economical and social marginalized. On the other side, farmer’s institutions which are expected be able to strengthen the farmer position to face the existing problems not effectively yet. The purpose of this research are to: (1) Identify and explain various factors have affected on the effectiveness of farmer’s institution, and (2) Formulate an appropriate strategy in capacity building of farmer’s institution.  This Research was conducted at three district of Center Java Province, there are: Klaten, Grobogan, and Karanganyar. The result shows that effectiveness of farmer’s institution is still at medium category. Effectiveness of farmer’s institution was directly influenced by level of member’s participation in farmer’s institution, outsider role, formal education, and local leadership. Famer’s income,  the quality of extension, social participation, needs, and capacities level of farmer were indirectly influenced to the effectiveness of farmer’s institution by participation in farmer’s institution. Learning experience of famer indirectly influences to the effectiveness of farmer’s institution by capacities level of farmer. The quality of agricultural extension, directly and indirectly, influences to the farmer’s capacities. It increases their participation in farmer’s institution and push their institution effectiveness.

 
Persepsi Mahasiswa Terhadap Kesadaran Gender
Authors: Taher Alwin , Hubeis Aida Vitayala S
Published: May 2017

Tujuan dari penelitian ini adalah menganalisis: 1) persepsi mahasiswa terhadap kesadaran gender; 2) hubungan antara sosialisasi primer (jenis kelamin, agama, suku bangsa, tingkat pendidikan orang tua, orang tua pekerjaan, dan tingkat gaji orang tua),) dengan persepsi mahasiswa terhadap kesadaran gender; 3) hubungan antara sosialisasi sekunder (daerah tempat tinggal, aktivitas organisasi, interaksi media massa, hubungan dengan teman, kelas gender dan kuliah pengembangan, dan indeks prestasi kumulatif) dengan persepsi mahasiswa terhadap kesadaran gender. Sampel dari penelitian ini adalah mahasiswa dari Fakultas Ekologi Manusia, Departemen Sains Komunikasi dan Pengembangan Masyarakat. Penelitian ini dimulai pada Mei sampai Juni 2009 menggunakan jumlah sampel 70 responden. Data dianalisis dengan menggunakan SPSS 14. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa: 1) Persepsi mahasiswa terhadap kesadaran gender yang tinggi (39 responden) dan lain-lain (31 responden) memiliki tingkat persepsi media mahasiswa pada kesadaran gender; 2) Sosialisasi primer yang memiliki hubungan yang signifikan dengan persepsi mahasiswa terhadap kesadaran gender hanya seks dan yang lain tidak memiliki hubungan yang signifikan dengan persepsi mahasiswa terhadap kesadaran gender; 3) semua sosialisasi sekunder (ruang tamu, aktivitas organisasi, interaksi media massa, hubungan dengan teman, kelas gender dan kuliah pengembangan, dan prestasi indeks kumulatif) tidak memiliki hubungan yang signifikan dengan persepsi mahasiswa pada kesadaran gender

 Kata kunci: Persepsi, kesadaran jender, sosialisasi primer, sosialisasi sekunder, tingkat intelektual
Lingkungan Sosial Budaya dan Persepsi Pelanggan terhadap Pengobatan Luar Puskesmas (Kasus di Kota Kotamobagu dan Kabupaten Bolaang Mongondow Utara, Provinsi Sulawesi Utara)
Authors: Mokoginta Mutu B , Sugihen Basita Ginting , Susanto Djoko , Asngari Pang S
Published: May 2017

Social cultural environment and Clients perception to the traditional health services considered as two important aspects. Social culture environment measured by social culture values and locality wisdom aspects. Clients perception to the traditional health services measured by perception to traditional mid-wife and perception to the traditional health service. Social culture environment that oriented to the health service has a high category, on the other hand, clients perception to the traditional health services has a middle category. Extention education is needed to improve the client’s behavior.
Keywords: Social cultural environment, Clients perception, the traditional health services
Strategi Penyuluhan di Kawasan Konservasi (Kasus Taman Nasional Kepulauan Togean)
Authors: Sangadji Muhd Nur , Sumardjo Sumardjo , Asngari Pang S , Soewito Soenarmo H
Published: May 2017

The aim of this research are (1) To describe the factors influences the community participation on mana­gement of Togean Island National Park. (2) To analyze the role of extension and it’s correlation to the community participation. (3). To formulate an extension strategy to increase the community participation on management of Togean Island National Park. The research was conducted in Togean Island National Park in Central Sulawesi on August to Septembre 2008 and March to April 2009. Five variables are used to measure the community participation by using Structural Equation Model (SEM) and LISEREL 8.30 sofware. Those variables are internal characteristic, extension process, eksternal factor, community capacity and community participation. The result of research shown that extension proccess have a significant effect on the community capacity. Community capacity have a significant effect to the community participation on management of Togean Island National Park. The strategy that can be used to increase the community participation is to improve the process of extension.

 

Keywords: extension, community participation and national park.
Persepsi Penyuluh Pertanian Lapang tentang Perannya dalam Penyuluhan Pertanian Padi di Provinsi Banten
Authors: Narso Narso , Saleh Amiruddin , Asngari Pang S , Muljono Pudji
Published: May 2017

This research aim are: (1) To study perception of agriculture extension agent about their role in agriculture activity in Banten, ( 2) To explain of factors which have correlation with the perception of agriculture extension agents about their roles in agriculture extension activity in Banten, (3) To analysing degree of factors which have correlation with the perception of agriculture extension agents about their roles in agriculture extension activity in Banten. Research was designed with the method survey the deskriptive-korelasional. Analyse the data used the descriptive statistic and statistical analysis inferensial. For the statistic of descriptive use the frequency, percentage, mean score, total mean score and tabulation traverse, analysis of statistic inferensial used to see the relation the dependen variable with the independen variable by rank Spearman. Factors which correlate with the perception are (1) characteristic of extension agent consisted by the age, formal education, and experience; (2) physical Environment consisted by the institute, mean the work, construction and supervise, and career development; (3) social economics environment: Environment of work, partner opportunity, and access to economic resources; and (4) Motivation: achievement motivation, affiliate motivation, and power motivation.

Key word: Perception, Role, agriculture extension agent
Motivasi dan Partisipasi Petani dalam Pengelolaan Hutan Kemiri di Kabupaten Maros Provinsi Sulawesi Selatan
Authors: Suprayitno Adi Riyanto , Sumardjo Sumardjo , Gani Darwis S , Sugihen Basita Ginting
Published: May 2017

The existence of candlenut forest in Maros District, today, is a successfull evidence of farmers living around the forest participation. Farmers around the candlenut forest has participated in managing that forest since 1826 to meet their subsitence need. They use the candlenut fruit to be one of their household income generating. Hence, those farmers have important roles to manage and to keep that forest sustainability. Any activity, including farmers participation, will undergo enthusiatic if there is any motivation within the person doing that activity. The research intended to identify and analize the contribution of farmers’ motivation to their participation in managing and utilizing candlenut forest. The data were collected on January-Maret 2010 in Maros District, South Sulawesi Province using some methods: questionnare list, interview, observation, and documents. The data were analyzed using (1) descriptive statistics, and (2) inferensial statistics based on SEM using LISREL 8.70 software programming. The result shows that farmers’ motivation is in the middle level, but their participation in managing and utilizing candlenut forest is categorized in low level. The Farmers’ motivation, however, has a positive contribution for increasing farmers participation in managing and utilizing candlenut forest.

Keywords: Farmers’ motivation, farmers’ partisipation, candlenut forest
Sosialisasi dan Partisipasi Masyarakat dalam Program Pemberdayaan Masyarakat Kelurahan (PPMK) di Kelurahan Klender
Authors: Defina Defina
Published: May 2017

Village community empowerment program (PPMK) aims to overcome poverty. Socialization of the programs to the community is one of the factors that can determine the participation of the community. Obtaining a description of socialization and community involvement is the purpose of this paper. The description of community participation in PPMK that was presented by Adi was analyzed with the definition of participation (community involvement in problem identification, decision-making process to solve problem, implementation of the result and evaluation on a development activity). This paper will also present the percentage of public knowledge about the program and the percentage of community involvement in the program.

Key word: poverty, empowerment, participation
Kompetensi Fasilitator Pelatihan Pusat Pengembangan dan Pemberdayaan, Pendidik dan Tenaga Kependidikan Pertanian (P4TK Pertanian) Kementerian Pendidikan dan Kebudayaan
Authors: Warisdiono Eko , Sarma Ma’mun , Gani Darwis S , Susanto Djoko
Published: May 2017

The success of the training execution one other is determined by facilitator competency. Therefore facilitator is strived to havecompetency in implementing learning task suitable with the wish and need of training participants. The aims of this researchis to analyse factors dominantly influencing competency of facilitators of P4TK Pertanian Cianjur. This research is conductedin P4TK Pertanian Cianjur, using P4TK fasilitators as respondents. The research is carried out in P4TK Pertanian Cianjurusing 121 facilitators by census. Reserch result showed that most part of the facilitators master the competence in the level ofmedium. Factors that significantly influencing positively the competence of the facilitators are involvement of facilitators inlearning process, motivation, and working environment. Meanwhile the individual characteristics does not significantly influencefacilitator competency.

Keywords: training, facilitator, competency
Kualitas Pelayanan Penyuluhan Pertanian dan Kepuasan Petani dalam Pengembangan Usahatani (Kasus di Desa Sukadamai Kecamatan Dramaga Kabupaten Bogor)
Authors: Tahitu Melvis E
Published: May 2017

Agricultural extension has significance in changing the behavior of farmers into a better, but the it will be able to realize the goal of agricultural extension if done well and qualified. This study aims to assess the quality of agricultural extension in Sukadamai Village and its relationship with satisfaction and capacity of farmers. The study was designed as a research survey with 38 respondents taking with simple random sampling from 50 farmers in the Sukadamai. Data analysis was conducted by descriptive statistics to describe the distribution of respondents in each measured variable, whereas inferential statistics are used to see the relationship between the variables, in this case used Spearman Rank Correlation analysis. The results showed that formal education and the length of farming relate to assessment of farmers to agricultural extension methods; farm land area associated with the assessment of farmers to agricultural extension agent appearance; the intensity of the visiting agricultural extension agent, agricultural extension materials and methods associated with assessment of the accuracy of agricultural extension; accuracy of extension and methods related to the ability of farmers to identify potential farms, while farmers' personal characteristics not related to the capacity of farmers.

Keywords: Quality of extension services, farmer satisfaction, the capacity of farmers, farm development
Kondisi Sosial Ekonomi dan Modal Sosial pada Berbagai Tingkat Partisipasi Peserta Program Pos Pemberdayaan Keluarga (Kasus Posdaya Mandiri Terpadu, Desa Cikarawang, Kecamatan Dramaga, Kabupaten Bogor)
Authors: Mukti Suhaeri , Sumarti Titik
Published: May 2017

The purpose of this study are analyze the influence of socio-economic conditions and social capital on the level of program’sparticipation. The correlation level between of program’s participation are access to welfare benefits and economic benefits of thePosdaya Integrated Self. The research was conducted in the village of Cikarawang, District Dramaga. This study uses quantitativeand qualitative approaches. The results showed that the socio-economic conditions and social capital owned by the participantsrelated to the level of program participation program, and the level of participation in the program achieved the degree ofparticipation of tokenism Arnstein. Correlation test results demonstrate, there is a significant and strong correlation betweensocioeconomic conditions and social capital on the level of program participation. Other results show that the participationrate also has a significant and strong correlation with access to welfare benefits and economic benefits received by programparticipants.

Keywords: Access to Welfare and Economic, Participation,Social Capital, Socio-Economic Condition
Installation: Between the Artistic and Architectural Project
Authors: Zečević Marija
Published: May 2017

The subject of this research is the art installation, a spatial creativity that arises in relation between art and architecture. In a more narrow definition, the subject of the research is installations created in the formative period of the 60s and 70s up to the present. As a ‘critical spatial practice’ art installations are conceived in the form of alternative proposals for settlements which enter the field of architectural design. Ideas concerning new sets of relations between the subject and a spatial order indicate the potential of the use of the concept of art installations in architectural design. The initial hypothesis is that art installations represent the articulation of a place of dialogue between art and architecture, which opens up a new field of research in architectural design. The aim of the research is to show the position of art installations as architectural projects. The applied methodological procedures approach architectural design in a manner of synthesizing the architecture and art in a new form of visual culture. The paper deals with the study of artistic concepts in terms of design, which emphasizes the importance of an interdisciplinary approach to research and the importance of integrating the principles of art in the field of architectural design. The main contribution of this paper is reflected in the expansion of the problem and thematic framework of research on architectural design, contemporary art and their relation.
Performance Studies as New Anthropology of Events
Authors: Simonović Alifirević Sanja , Alifirević Đorđe
Published: May 2017

The question of relations between performance studies and new anthropology of events within the open cultural field directly points to the internal interventionist practice of performance and event as the agent of generative and constitutive roles in terms of initiating social processes and situations. An analysis of Turner’s dramaturgical patterns in the development and solution of social crisis, as well as Goffman’s social roles, in direct relation with performance studies, indicate that there is an original connection of these two theoretical platforms and point to their integral importance in terms of actualization and critical thinking related to current social situations. The basic theoretical and social transformations, connected to globalism and interculturalism, led to a redefinition of the aims and range of anthropological knowledge. Global anthropology of the contemporary in current, mediatized society is connected to the question of event, i.e. the event as performance, including different aspects of presence and behavior in a wide spectrum of human activities, along with their consequences.
 
Article received: December 14, 2016; Article accepted: January 27, 2017; Published online: April 20, 2017
Original scholarly paper
 
How to cite this article: Simonović Alifirević, Sanja, and Đorđe Alifirević. "Performance Studies as New Anthropology of Events." AM Journal of Art and Media Studies 12 (2017): 149-157. doi: 10.25038/am.v0i12.174
Book Review: Nicholas Gaskill and A. J. Nocek (eds.). The Lure of Whitehead. Minneapolis: University Of Minnesota Press, 2014, 427 pp.
Authors: Novaković Milovan
Published: May 2017

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Wear behavior of ultrasonic impact treated S235JR steel
Authors: Kahraman Fatih , Kahraman Haydar , Yolcu Coşkun , Kahraman Ayça Demirer
Published: May 2017

In this study, wear behavior of ultrasonic impact treated S235JR steel was investigated. Samples were peened for different times (5, 15 and 30 minutes) by ultrasonic impact treatment. It was found that triple layers (nanocrystallization, plastic deformation and residual stress) formed on the treated surface. The thickness of the layers treated samples increased with increasing treatment time. It was also determined that surface roughness of treated samples decreased with increasing treatment time. All treated samples have significant surface hardness. Nanocrystallization layer on top of the treated surface has the highest hardness values in comparison with the hardness of the other layers. The treatment increases not only surface hardness, but also wear resistance of all treated samples. The maximum wear resistance was observed for the 30 min treated samples due to the high hardness and thickness of the nanocrystallization layers.
Abrasive wear resistance optimization of three different carbide coatings by the Taguchi method
Authors: Gür Ali Kaya , Kaya Sinan
Published: May 2017

In this study, FeCrC, SiC and B4C powders were alloyed on the surface of AISI 430 ferritic stainless steel by plasma arc welding. The mass losses of the abrasive wear of the AISI 430 substrate were examined under the loads of 6, 10 and 16 N and in the distances of 10, 20 and 30 m by using Taguchi design method. The results of abrasive wear test were optimized by the minimum optimal control characteristics of the Taguchi procedure and the results were analyzed by using graphical methods. The Taguchi procedure is an important approach to achieve high quality without increasing the cost during the optimization of process parameters. The orthogonal planes of maximum effects of the controllable process parameters and minimum effects of uncontrollable process parameters were employed in the Taguchi method.
Very high cycle fatigue testing of concrete using ultrasonic cycling
Authors: Karr Ulrike , Schuller Reinhard , Fitzka Michael , Denk Andreas , Strauss Alfred , Mayer Herwig
Published: May 2017

The ultrasonic fatigue testing method has been further developed to perform cyclic compression tests with concrete. Cylindrical specimens vibrate in resonance at a frequency of approximately 20 kHz with superimposed compressive static loads. The high testing frequency allows time-saving investigations in the very high cycle fatigue regime. Fatigue tests were carried out on “Concrete 1” (compressive strength fc = 80 MPa) and “Concrete 2” (fc = 107 MPa) under purely compressive loading conditions. Experiments at maximum compressive stresses of 0.44 fc (Concrete 1) and 0.38 fc (Concrete 2) delivered specimen failures above 109 cycles, indicating that no fatigue limit exists for concrete below one billion load cycles. Resonance frequency, power required to resonate the specimen and second order harmonics of the vibration are used to monitor fatigue damage in situ. Specimens were scanned by X-ray computed tomography prior to and after testing. Fatigue cracks were produced by ultrasonic cycling in the very high cycle fatigue regime at interfaces of grains as well as in cement. The possibilities as well as limitations of ultrasonic fatigue testing of concrete are discussed.
Auswahl eines Kennwertes für den Vergleich des mechanischen Leistungsniveaus von Polyethylenformstoffen für Gefahrgutverpackungen
Authors: Weltschev Margit
Published: May 2017

Kurzfassung

Zum Vergleich der Polyethylenformstoffe für eine Bauart von Gefahrgutverpackungen und IBC (Intermediate Bulk Container) wurden die folgenden Materialkennwerte der DIN EN 15507 (Verpackung – Verpackungen zur Beförderung gefährlicher Güter – Vergleichende Werkstoffprüfung von Polyethylensorten) ausgewählt: Schmelze-Massefließrate MFR, Dichte D, Kerbschlagzähigkeit acN bei −30 °C, Spannungsrissbeständigkeit (bestimmt mit dem Full Notch Creep Test) und Beständigkeit gegen oxidativen Abbau Ox (bestimmt durch den prozentualen Anstieg des MFR in Salpetersäure). Das Ziel der Untersuchungen war die Auswahl eines Kennwertes für die Bestimmung des mechanischen Leistungsniveaus von Polyethylenformstoffen, da unter Druck Verpackungen beulen oder knicken. Zur Auswahl standen drei Prüfverfahren: a) Bestimmung der Biegesteifigkeit S nach DIN 53350 (Prinzip von Ohlsen), b) Bestimmung der Biegefestigkeit σfM und Biegedehnung ∊fM nach DIN EN ISO 178 und c) Bestimmung der Druckkraft Fmax und Verformung dL bei Fmax nach DIN EN ISO 604. Die Prüfmethode zur Bestimmung der Biegesteifigkeit nach DIN 53350 eignet sich zum Vergleich des mechanischen Leistungsniveaus der Formstoffe. Zur Verbesserung der Reproduzierbarkeit der Ergebnisse sollte der Skalierungsbereich der Prüfapparatur erweitert werden, um genauere Messergebnisse zu erzielen. Der Dreipunktbiegeversuch nach DIN EN ISO 178 eignet sich bei verformungsfähigen Kunststoffen, wie dem Polyethylen, zur Bestimmung der Biegefestigkeit σfM. Dieser Versuch besitzt den Nachteil, dass am Ort des maximalen Biegemoments in der Randschicht, wo auch die maximale Biegespannung erzeugt wird, zusätzlich der Biegestempel angreift. Die Messergebnisse haben gezeigt, dass die Druckprüfung nach DIN EN ISO 604 sich sehr gut zur Bewertung des mechanischen Verhaltens der Polyethylenformstoffe unter Druckbelastung (Stapeldruckprüfung der Verpackungen) eignet.
Sensitivity of the Illinois Flexibility Index Test to Mixture Design Factors
Authors: Ling Cheng , Swiertz Dan , Mandal Tirupan , Teymourpour Pouya , Bahia Hussain
Published: May 2017

The semicircular bend test was recently modified to develop the Illinois flexibility index test (I-FIT). The I-FIT test quantifies the cracking resistance of asphalt mixtures by using the flexibility index (FI), which includes the fracture energy and postpeak behavior of a mixture. This paper presents results from testing asphalt mixtures in Wisconsin. A statistical analysis approach was chosen for this study, in which the I-FIT procedure was used to differentiate between mixtures on the basis of changes in mixture composition and aging treatments. Mixtures included in this study varied in terms of the percentage of reclaimed asphalt pavement, design traffic levels, binder grades, modification levels, and aging conditions. In addition, a laboratory experiment to evaluate the effects of variability in mixture production, including asphalt content and filler content, on the I-FIT testing results was performed to provide a basis for evaluating the tolerance limits of the current production and for setting reasonable specification criteria. The statistical analysis indicated that the FI could discriminate between types of asphalt mixtures and aging conditions. The FI parameter was found to be a better parameter for capturing some of the critical changes in mixture variables and aging than the fracture energy and other parameters from the I-FIT procedure. It was also clear that the FI parameter was sensitive to the variation in production binder and filler contents within the tolerances of the current construction specifications of the Wisconsin Department of Transportation.
Robotic paravertebral schwannoma resection at extreme locations of the thoracic cavity
Authors: Pacchiarotti Giacomo , Wang Michael Y. , Kolcun John Paul G. , Chang Ken Hsuan-kan , Al Maaieh Motasem , Reis Victor S. , Nguyen Dao M.
Published: May 2017

Solitary paravertebral schwannomas in the thoracic spine and lacking an intraspinal component are uncommon. These benign nerve sheath tumors are typically treated using complete resection with an excellent outcome. Resection of these tumors is achieved by an anterior approach via open thoracotomy or minimally invasive thoracoscopy, by a posterior approach via laminectomy, or by a combination of both approaches. These tumors most commonly occur in the midthoracic region, for which surgical removal is usually straightforward. The authors of this report describe 2 cases of paravertebral schwannoma at extreme locations of the posterior mediastinum, one at the superior sulcus and the other at the inferior sulcus of the thoracic cavity, for which the usual surgical approaches for safe resection can be challenging. The tumors were completely resected with robot-assisted thoracoscopic surgery. This report suggests that single-stage anterior surgery for this type of tumor in extreme locations is safe and effective with this novel minimally invasive technique.
Computer-aided design/computer-aided manufacturing skull base drill
Authors: Couldwell William T. , MacDonald Joel D. , Thomas Charles L. , Hansen Bradley C. , Lapalikar Aniruddha , Thakkar Bharat , Balaji Alagar K.
Published: May 2017

The authors have developed a simple device for computer-aided design/computer-aided manufacturing (CAD-CAM) that uses an image-guided system to define a cutting tool path that is shared with a surgical machining system for drilling bone. Information from 2D images (obtained via CT and MRI) is transmitted to a processor that produces a 3D image. The processor generates code defining an optimized cutting tool path, which is sent to a surgical machining system that can drill the desired portion of bone. This tool has applications for bone removal in both cranial and spine neurosurgical approaches. Such applications have the potential to reduce surgical time and associated complications such as infection or blood loss. The device enables rapid removal of bone within 1 mm of vital structures. The validity of such a machining tool is exemplified in the rapid (< 3 minutes machining time) and accurate removal of bone for transtemporal (for example, translabyrinthine) approaches.
Initial academic experience and learning curve with robotic spine instrumentation
Authors: Urakov Timur M. , Chang Ken Hsuan-kan , Burks S. Shelby , Wang Michael Y.
Published: May 2017

OBJECTIVE

Spine surgery is complex and involves various steps. Current robotic technology is mostly aimed at assisting with pedicle screw insertion. This report evaluates the feasibility of robot-assisted pedicle instrumentation in an academic environment with the involvement of residents and fellows.

METHODS

The Renaissance Guidance System was used to plan and execute pedicle screw placement in open and percutaneous consecutive cases performed in the period of December 2015 to December 2016. The database was reviewed to assess the usability of the robot by neurosurgical trainees. Outcome measures included time per screw, fluoroscopy time, breached screws, and other complications. Screw placement was assessed in patients with postoperative CT studies. The speed of screw placement and fluoroscopy time were collected at the time of surgery by personnel affiliated with the robot’s manufacturer. Complication and imaging data were reviewed retrospectively.

RESULTS

A total of 306 pedicle screws were inserted in 30 patients with robot guidance. The average time for junior residents was 4.4 min/screw and for senior residents and fellows, 4.02 min/screw (p = 0.61). Among the residents dedicated to spine surgery, the average speed was 3.84 min/screw, while nondedicated residents took 4.5 min/screw (p = 0.41). Evaluation of breached screws revealed some of the pitfalls in using the robot.

CONCLUSIONS

No significant difference regarding the speed of pedicle instrumentation was detected between the operators’ years of experience or dedication to spine surgery, although more participants are required to investigate this completely. On the other hand, there was a trend toward improved efficiency with more cases performed. To the authors’ knowledge, this is the first reported academic experience with robot-assisted spine instrumentation.
Endoscopic endonasal transsphenoidal surgery using the iArmS operation support robot: initial experience in 43 patients
Authors: Ogiwara Toshihiro , Goto Tetsuya , Nagm Alhusain , Hongo Kazuhiro
Published: May 2017

Objective

The intelligent arm-support system, iArmS, which follows the surgeon’s arm and automatically fixes it at an adequate position, was developed as an operation support robot. iArmS was designed to support the surgeon’s forearm to prevent hand trembling and to alleviate fatigue during surgery with a microscope. In this study, the authors report on application of this robotic device to endoscopic endonasal transsphenoidal surgery (ETSS) and evaluate their initial experiences.

Methods

The study population consisted of 43 patients: 29 with pituitary adenoma, 3 with meningioma, 3 with Rathke’s cleft cyst, 2 with craniopharyngioma, 2 with chordoma, and 4 with other conditions. All patients underwent surgery via the endonasal transsphenoidal approach using a rigid endoscope. During the nasal and sphenoid phases, iArmS was used to support the surgeon’s nondominant arm, which held the endoscope. The details of the iArmS and clinical results were collected.

Results iArmS followed the surgeon’s arm movement automatically. It reduced the surgeon’s fatigue and stabilized the surgeon’s hand during ETSS. Shaking of the video image decreased due to the steadying of the surgeon’s scope-holding hand with iArmS. There were no complications related to use of the device.

Conclusions

The intelligent armrest, iArmS, seems to be safe and effective during ETSS. iArmS is helpful for improving the precision and safety not only for microscopic neurosurgery, but also for ETSS. Ongoing advances in robotics ensure the continued evolution of neurosurgery.
Revisions for screw malposition and clinical outcomes after robot-guided lumbar fusion for spondylolisthesis
Authors: Schröder Marc L. , Staartjes Victor E.
Published: May 2017

OBJECTIVE

The accuracy of robot-guided pedicle screw placement has been proven to be high, but little is known about the impact of such guidance on clinical outcomes such as the rate of revision surgeries for screw malposition. In addition, there are very few data about the impact of robot-guided fusion on patient-reported outcomes (PROs). Thus, the clinical benefit for the patient is unclear. In this study, the authors analyzed revision rates for screw malposition and changes in PROs following minimally invasive robot-guided pedicle screw fixation.

METHODS

A retrospective cohort study of patients who had undergone minimally invasive posterior lumbar interbody fusion (MI-PLIF) or minimally invasive transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion was performed. Patients were followed up clinically at 6 weeks, 12 months, and 24 months after treatment and by mailed questionnaire in March 2016 as a final follow-up. Visual analog scale (VAS) scores for back and leg pain severity, Oswestry Disability Index (ODI), screw revisions, and socio-demographic factors were analyzed. A literature review was performed, comparing the incidence of intraoperative screw revisions and revision surgery for screw malposition in robot-guided, navigated, and freehand fusion procedures.

RESULTS

Seventy-two patients fit the study inclusion criteria and had a mean follow up of 32 ± 17 months. No screws had to be revised intraoperatively, and no revision surgery for screw malposition was needed. In the literature review, the authors found a higher rate of intraoperative screw revisions in the navigated pool than in the robot-guided pool (p < 0.001, OR 9.7). Additionally, a higher incidence of revision surgery for screw malposition was observed for freehand procedures than for the robot-guided procedures (p < 0.001, OR 8.1). The VAS score for back pain improved significantly from 66.9 ± 25.0 preoperatively to 30.1 ± 26.8 at the final follow-up, as did the VAS score for leg pain (from 70.6 ± 22.8 to 24.3 ± 28.3) and ODI (from 43.4 ± 18.3 to 16.2 ± 16.7; all p < 0.001). Undergoing PLIF, a high body mass index, smoking status, and a preoperative ability to work were identified as predictors of a reduction in back pain. Length of hospital stay was 2.4 ± 1.1 days and operating time was 161 ± 50 minutes. Ability to work increased from 38.9% to 78.2% of patients (p < 0.001) at the final follow-up, and 89.1% of patients indicated they would choose to undergo the same treatment again.

CONCLUSIONS

In adults with low-grade spondylolisthesis, the data demonstrated a benefit in using robotic guidance to reduce the rate of revision surgery for screw malposition as compared with other techniques of pedicle screw insertion described in peer-reviewed publications. Larger comparative studies are required to assess differences in PROs following a minimally invasive approach in spinal fusion surgeries compared with other techniques.
Decisional Bias as Implicit Moral Judgment
Authors: Spring Toni , Saltzstein Herbert D.
Published: May 2017

Decisional bias (false alarm rate) when judging the guilt/innocence of a suspect is offered as an implicit measure of moral judgment. Combining two data sets, 215 participants, ages 10–12, 13–15, and 16–18 watched the visually identical film involving a person setting a fire, framed either as (a) intentional but not resulting in a fire (BI-NF), (b) unintentional but resulting in a major fire (NI-F), or (c) intentional and resulting in a major fire (BI-F). After watching the film, participants identified seriatim who of six individuals was the perpetrator and how certain they were. The data were subjected to a signal detection analysis. Participants also explicitly judged “how bad” the perpetrator and act were. The implicit measure fit Piaget’s claim of moral realism, shifting from judging wrongness according to the outcome to judging according to the actor’s intentions, better than the explicit traditional measures.
The Anti-Amyloid-β and Neuroprotective Properties of a Novel Tricyclic Pyrone Molecule
Authors: Maezawa Izumi , Zou Bende , Di Lucente Jacopo , Cao William S. , Pascual Conrado , Weerasekara Sahani , Zhang Man , Xie Xinmin Simon , Hua Duy H. , Jin Lee-Way
Published: May 2017

There is an urgent unmet need for new therapeutics for Alzheimer’s disease (AD), the most common cause of dementia in the elderly. Therapeutic approaches targeting amyloid-β (Aβ) and its downstream toxicities have become major strategies in AD drug development. We have taken a rational design approach and synthesized a class of tricyclic pyrone (TP) compounds that show anti-Aβ and other neuroprotective actions. The in vivo efficacy of a lead TP named CP2 to ameliorate AD-like pathologies has been shown in mouse models. Here we report the selection and initial characterization of a new lead TP70, which exhibited an anti-Aβ therapeutic index even higher than CP2. Moreover, TP70 was able to reduce oxidative stress, inhibit acyl-coenzyme A:cholesterol acyltransferase (ACAT), and upregulate the expression of ATP-binding cassette subfamily A, member 1 (ABCA1), actions considered neuroprotective in AD. TP70 further showed excellent pharmacokinetic properties, including brain penetration and oral availability. When administered to 5xFAD mice via intraperitoneal or oral route, TP70 enhanced the overall solubility and decreased the level of cerebral Aβ, including both fibrillary and soluble Aβ species. Interestingly, TP70 enhanced N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptor-mediated excitatory post-synaptic potential (EPSP) in the hippocampal CA1 area, increased the magnitude of NMDA-dependent hippocampal long-term potentiation (LTP), a cellular model of learning and memory, and prevented the Aβ oligomer-impaired LTP. Significantly, a single dose of TP70 administered to aged 5xFAD mice was effective in mitigating the impaired LTP induction, recorded at 24 h after administration. Our results support a potential of TP70 in clinical development for AD in view of its synergistic neuroprotective actions, ability to positively modulate NMDA receptor-mediated hippocampal plasticity, and favorable pharmacokinetic properties in rodents.
The Experimental Realization of an Acoustic Cloak in Air with a Meta-Composite Shell
Authors: Yang Shiuh-Kuang , Lin Jau-Cho , Cheng Jyin-Wen
Published: May 2017

Anisotropic cloak shells can be used for the spatial transformation of a space to alter the propagation of acoustic waves by redirecting them along a pre-determined path. This paper outlines the design, fabrication, and experimental analysis of a circular acoustic cloak shell made of meta-composite material for in-air applications. Based on the three-dimensional coordinate transformation, we first designed an anisotropic circle meta-composite cloak shell according to its impedance values. The cloak shell comprises various layered structures with cavities and tubes, respectively, providing acoustic mass and compliance for the provision of anisotropic material properties. Secondly, we conducted numerical and experimental analyses under practice working conditions to demonstrate the efficacy of the acoustic cloak. The structure of the cloak shell, fabricated by three-dimensional printing (3D printing), is experimentally evaluated in a semi-anechoic room with a free-field environment. The simulation and experimental results demonstrate the acoustic cloaking effects in the scattering far field. Besides the scattering field, the sound field measurement results obtained with the region enclosed by the shell also shows the abilities of the cloak shell in altering the direction of wave propagation along a pre-determined path in air.
An Initial Load-Based Green Software Defined Network
Authors: Hu Ying , Luo Tao , Beaulieu Norman , Wang Wenjie
Published: May 2017

Software defined network (SDN) is a new network architecture in which the control function is decoupled from the data forwarding plane, that is attracting wide attentions from both research and industry sectors. However, SDN still faces the energy waste problem as do traditional networks. At present, research on energy saving in SDN is mainly focused on the static optimization of the network with zero load when new traffic arrives, changing the transmission path of the uncompleted traffic which arrived before the optimization, possibly resulting in route oscillation and other deleterious effects. To avoid this, a dynamical energy saving optimization scheme in which the paths of the uncompleted flows will not be changed when new traffic arrives is designed. To find the optimal solution for energy saving, the problem is modeled as a mixed integer linear programming (MILP) problem. As the high complexity of the problem prohibits the optimal solution, an improved heuristic routing algorithm called improved constant weight greedy algorithm (ICWGA) is proposed to find a sub-optimal solution. Simulation results show that the energy saving capacity of ICWGA is close to that of the optimal solution, offering desirable improvement in the energy efficiency of the network.
Failure Response of Simultaneously Pre-Stressed and Laser Irradiated Aluminum Alloys
Authors: Jelani Mohsan , Li Zewen , Shen Zhonghua , Sardar Maryam
Published: May 2017

The failure response of aluminum alloys (Al-6061 and Al-7075) under the condition of simultaneously pre-stressing and laser heating was investigated. Specimens were subjected to predetermined preloading states and then irradiated by continuous wave fiber (Yb) laser. For all specimens, it was found that the yield stress decreased with increasing laser power density. This implies that the load-bearing capacity of the specimens reduced under increased thermal or tensile loading. Consequently, the specimen’s failure time was shortened by increasing either laser power density or preloaded speed. For Al-6061, a remarkable reduction in failure time by the increase of laser power density is found. However, for Al-7075, under higher preloaded speeds, comparatively smaller impact of laser power density on the failure time is reported. Moreover, for Al-6061, relatively a more non-uniform variation in the average failure time with the increase of laser power density or preloaded speed is observed. The failure mode of Al-6061 turned from brittle to ductile at higher laser power densities; whereas for Al-7075, it changed from quasi-brittle to ductile. At higher preloaded speeds, a greater degree of melting and ablation phenomenon can be seen due to relatively higher temperatures and higher heating rates.
Subsidence Evolution of the Leizhou Peninsula, China, Based on InSAR Observation from 1992 to 2010
Authors: Du Yanan , Feng Guangcai , Peng Xing , Li Zhiwei
Published: May 2017

Over the past two decades, the Leizhou Peninsula has suffered from many geological hazards and great property losses caused by land subsidence. However, the absence of a deformation map of the whole peninsula has impeded the government in making the necessary decisions concerning hazard prevention and mitigation. This study aims to provide the evolution of land deformation (subsidence and uplift) in the whole peninsula from 1992 to 2010. A modified stacking procedure is proposed to map the surface deformation with JERS, ENVISAT, and ALOS1 images. The map shows that the land subsidence mainly occurs along the coastline with a maximum velocity of 32 mm/year and in a wide range of inland arable lands with a velocity between 10 and 19 mm/year. Our study suggests that there is a direct correlation between the subsidence and the surface geology. Besides, the observed subsidence in urban areas, caused by groundwater overexploitation for domestic and industrial use, is moving from urban areas to suburban areas. In nonurban areas, groundwater extraction for aquaculture and arable land irrigation are the main reason for land subsidence, which accelerates saltwater intrusion and coastline erosion if regular surface deformation measurements and appropriate management measures are not taken.
Multi-Objective Climb Path Optimization for Aircraft/Engine Integration Using Particle Swarm Optimization
Authors: Antonakis Aristeidis , Nikolaidis Theoklis , Pilidis Pericles
Published: May 2017

In this article, a new multi-objective approach to the aircraft climb path optimization problem, based on the Particle Swarm Optimization algorithm, is introduced to be used for aircraft–engine integration studies. This considers a combination of a simulation with a traditional Energy approach, which incorporates, among others, the use of a proposed path-tracking scheme for guidance in the Altitude–Mach plane. The adoption of population-based solver serves to simplify case setup, allowing for direct interfaces between the optimizer and aircraft/engine performance codes. A two-level optimization scheme is employed and is shown to improve search performance compared to the basic PSO algorithm. The effectiveness of the proposed methodology is demonstrated in a hypothetic engine upgrade scenario for the F-4 aircraft considering the replacement of the aircraft’s J79 engine with the EJ200; a clear advantage of the EJ200-equipped configuration is unveiled, resulting, on average, in 15% faster climbs with 20% less fuel.
Radiative Rates and Electron Impact Excitation Rates for Transitions in He II
Authors: Aggarwal Kanti , Igarashi Akinori , Keenan Francis , Nakazaki Shinobu
Published: May 2017

We report calculations of energy levels, radiative rates, collision strengths and effective collision strengths for transitions among the lowest 25 levels of the n ≤ 5 configurations of He II. The general-purpose relativistic atomic structure package (grasp) and Dirac atomic R-matrix code (darc) are adopted for the calculations. Radiative rates, oscillator strengths and line strengths are reported for all electric dipole (E1), magnetic dipole (M1), electric quadrupole (E2) and magnetic quadrupole (M2) transitions among the 25 levels. Furthermore, collision strengths and effective collision strengths are listed for all 300 transitions among the above 25 levels over a wide energy (temperature) range up to 9 Ryd (10 5.4 K). Comparisons are made with earlier available results, and the accuracy of the data is assessed.
In Search of Sleep Biomarkers of Alzheimer’s Disease: K-Complexes Do Not Discriminate between Patients with Mild Cognitive Impairment and Healthy Controls
Authors: Reda Flaminia , Gorgoni Maurizio , Lauri Giulia , Truglia Ilaria , Cordone Susanna , Scarpelli Serena , Mangiaruga Anastasia , D'Atri Aurora , Ferrara Michele , Lacidogna Giordano , Marra Camillo , Rossini Paolo Maria , De Gennaro Luigi
Published: May 2017

The K-complex (KC) is one of the hallmarks of Non-Rapid Eye Movement (NREM) sleep. Recent observations point to a drastic decrease of spontaneous KCs in Alzheimer’s disease (AD). However, no study has investigated when, in the development of AD, this phenomenon starts. The assessment of KC density in mild cognitive impairment (MCI), a clinical condition considered a possible transitional stage between normal cognitive function and probable AD, is still lacking. The aim of the present study was to compare KC density in AD/MCI patients and healthy controls (HCs), also assessing the relationship between KC density and cognitive decline. Twenty amnesic MCI patients underwent a polysomnographic recording of a nocturnal sleep. Their data were compared to those of previously recorded 20 HCs and 20 AD patients. KCs during stage 2 NREM sleep were visually identified and KC densities of the three groups were compared. AD patients showed a significant KC density decrease compared with MCI patients and HCs, while no differences were observed between MCI patients and HCs. KC density was positively correlated with Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) scores. Our results point to the existence of an alteration of KC density only in a full-blown phase of AD, which was not observable in the early stage of the pathology (MCI), but linked with cognitive deterioration.