bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Pengaruh Kinerja Keuangan terhadap Simpanan Dana Pihak Ketiga Melalui Nisbah Bagi Hasil (Studi Kasus Bank Umum Syariah di Indonesia Periode 2012-2015)
Authors: Annisa Ayu , Yuningsih Isna , Rusliansyah Rusliansyah
Published: February 2018

This study aims to determine the effect of the financial performance of third party funds through revenue sharing on Islamic banks during the period of the first quarter of 2012 until the second quarter 2015. The number of samples in this study are 7 companies, which are taken according to specific criteria banking company sharia is still registered during the observation period 2012-2015 which publishes quarterly financial reports during the study period Then hypothesis testing is done by using partial least square (PLS) 3.2.4. The results showed that a statistically significant effect on the financial performance of third party funds, financial performance significant effect on revenue sharing, profit sharing ratio did not significantly affect third-party funds and financial performance did not significantly affect third-party funds through revenue sharing.Keywords: Third-party funds, ratio of profit sharing, capital adequacy ratio (CAR), Non Performing Financing (NPF), Return on Assets (ROA), Operating Expenses Operating Income (ROA), and Financing to Deposit to ratio (FDR)
Analisis Pengaruh Kepuasan Kerja Dukungan Organisasi dan Gaya Kepemimpinan terhadap Motivasi Kerja
Authors: Heryanto Denno , Riadi Sukisno S. , Robiansyah Robiansyah
Published: February 2018

Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk menjelaskan variabel kepuasan kerja, dukungan organisasi, dan gaya kepemimpinan yang mempengaruhi motivasi kerja dari PT Gunung Gajah Abadi. Variabel bebas dalam penelitian ini adalah kepuasan kerja, dukungan organisasi dan gaya kepemimpinan, variabel dependen adalah motivasi kerja. Jenis penelitian dalam penelitian ini meliputi penelitian kausal, yang merupakan hasil penelitian dan menggambarkan hubungan (sebab akibat). Populasi karyawan PT. Gunung Gajah Abadi. Metode sampling yang digunakan adalah simple random sampling dengan jumlah responden adalah 80 karyawan. Teknik pengumpulan data menggunakan metode observasi dengan menyebarkan kuesioner. Jenis dan sumber data menggunakan data primer. Data dianalisis menggunakan Least Square (PLS) pendekatan parsial. Hasil penelitian ini menunjukkan bahwa kepuasan variabel kerja memiliki efek pada motivasi kerja berpengaruh positif dan signifikan, dukungan organisasi memiliki efek pada motivasi kerja berpengaruh positif dan signifikan, gaya kepemimpinan berpengaruh pada motivasi kerja positif dan signifikan.
Analisis Perancangan Tataletak Fasilitas Produksi menggunakan Metode Activity Relationship Chart (ARC)
Authors: Safitri Nadia Dini , Ilmi Zainal , Amin M.
Published: February 2018

Tata letak menjadi salah satu faktor yang sangat penting bagi suatu perusahaan untuk dapat merancang penetapan fasilitas-fasilitas produksi agar tidak mengganggu kegiatan produksi. Metode yang digunakan pada perancangan tata letak adalah Activity Relationship Chart (ARC). Penempatan fasilitas-fasilitas produksi pada CV. Primaset Advertising saling terpisah-pisah sehingga membuat waktu pengerjaan menjadi panjang dan output yang dihasilkan tidak maksimal. Dengan adanya masalah ini, perusahaan dituntut untuk dapat lebih memperpanjang waktu kerja karyawan untuk dapat menyelesaikan pesanan produk tepat waktu. Adapun produk yang paling banyak diminati adalah spanduk, x-banner, papan nama, dan neon box. Berdasarkan penelitian ini, hasilnya menunjukkan bahwa layout usulan hasil penelitian memiliki jarak lebih pendek dengan efisiensi sebesar 27,6%, waktu pengerjaan yang optimal mencapai 19%, dapat menghemat biaya perusahaan setiap bulannya hingga 50%, dan output yang dihasilkan lebih optimal. Sehingga layout usulan lebih efektif dan efisien.
Eksperimentasi Model Pembelajaran Kooperatif Tipe Team Assisted Individualization Guide Note Taking (TAI GNT) Ditinjau dari Kemandirian Belajar Siswa
Authors: Gazali Muhammad
Published: February 2018

The aim of the research was to determine the effect of learning models on mathematics learning achievement viewed from students independence learning. The learning models compared were cooperative learning model of TAI GNT, cooperative learning model of TAI, and conventional model. The type of the research was a quasi-experimental research. The population was the tenth grade students of senior high school at East Lombok. The results of this research are as follows. (1) In each level of independence learning (high, medium, and low), TAI GNT model gives better mathematics learning achievement than TAI and conventional model, besides, TAI model gives better mathematic learning achievement than conventional model. (2) In each learning models (TAI GNT, TAI and conventional), the students with high independence learning have better mathematics learning achievement than the students with medium and low independence learning, and the students with medium independence learning have the same mathematics learning achievement as the students with low independence learning.
Penyebab Kecemasan Matematika Mahasiswa Calon Guru Asal Papua
Authors: Makur Alberta Parinters , Prahmana Rully Charitas Indra
Published: February 2018

An increasing number of Papuans qualified teachers realized by sending young people from Papua to continue their education in the College of Education. But the basic capabilities, especially mathematics, which owned high school students graduated from Papua that continuing education is very low. This, presumably because the students have math anxiety, thus preventing them from material master mathematics. By using a qualitative research approach, particularly the case study method, this research describes what factors are the cause of math anxiety prospective teacher students from Papua, based on the results of questionnaires and interviews that have been analyzed.
Peningkatan Kemampuan Pemahaman dan Pemecahan Masalah Matematis Siswa Sekolah Menengah Atas dengan Model Pembelajaran Kooperatif Tipe Team Assisted Individualization
Authors: Farnika Nia , Ikhsan M. , Sofyan Hizir
Published: February 2018

Up to now the mathematical ability of students is still relatively low. It is characterized from the low mathematics learning outcomes. Low ability students' mathematical understanding and abilities among students' mathematical problem solving so we need a model of learning that can improve both the mathematical ability. Team Assisted Individualization (TAI) is one type of cooperative learning is expected to increase both these capabilities. This type combines the advantages of cooperative learning and individual learning. This study aims to assess about increasing the understanding and solving mathematical problems high school students with TAI type of cooperative learning model. This study was an experiment that was true experimental research with a quantitative approach. Design research is pretest-posttest control group design. The population in this study was all tenth grade students in the academic year 2013/2014. The sample in this study was two classes, class X1 (control group) and class X2 (experiment group). Data collection was using the test. Data analysis was conducted to gain a score normalized using ANOVA. The results showed that: 1) increased understanding of the mathematical ability of students who obtained using TAI type of cooperative learning model better than students which gained overall in terms of conventional learning and student level (high, medium and low), 2) there was no interaction between learning model and student level (high, medium, and low) to increase the capability of understanding, 3) improving students' mathematical problem solving ability the learning gained by using TAI type of cooperative learning model better than students who received conventional learning was reviewed overall and student level (high, medium and low), and 4) there was interaction between the learning model and student level (high, medium, and low ) to increase problem-solving ability.
Pengembangan Soal Open-Ended Pokok Bahasan Barisan dan Deret Bilangan untuk Siswa SMP
Authors: Yusliriadi Yusliriadi , Darmawijoyo Darmawijoyo , Somakim Somakim
Published: February 2018

The research is proposed to: (1) get open-ended problems which are valid and practice  on the math topic Sequence and Series of numbers for junior high school students. (2) find potential effects of open ended problems to the students on the topic about sequence and series of numbers. The methodology that use in this study is a developmental research. The way of collecting data is by using Walk through, to determine the validity of the matter is the content, construct, and language; document at small group to know about the practicality; tests and interviews to find out about the potential effects on the ability of students' understanding of the concept. The result of data analysis come to conclusion, that: (1) This research produces (six question) open ended problems on the topic of sequence and series of numbers for students of IX grade  are valid and practice. (2) The prototype of open-ended problems which was developed have positive potential effect to the ability of studentsâ€™ understanding of the concept, it is shown by the average value of studentsâ€™ understanding of the concept of good in the open-ended problems test which resulted 71,9%.
Pengetahuan Mahasiswa Pendidikan Guru Sekolah Dasar dalam Merepresentasikan Operasi Pecahan dengan Model Persegi Panjang
Authors: Putra Zetra Hainul
Published: February 2018

This study aims to investigate pre-service elementary teachersâ€™ knowledge on representing fraction operations by rectangle models. The subjects of this study are 64 pre-service elementary teachers from elementary school techer training study program, faculty of teacher training and education, University of Riau. The research method used is quantitative descriptive by giving a test related to the representations of fraction operations by rectangle models. The result shows that 82,81% pre-service elementary teachers were success representing addition of fractions, and 67,19% of them for subtraction of fractions. Meanwhile, 44,53% pre-service elementary teachers were success representing multiplication of fractions and 24,22% of them for divison of fractions. Then, they were still get difficulty in representing multiplication and division of fractions using rectangle models than addition and subtraction of fractions.
Desain Pembelajaran Peluang dengan Pendekatan PMRI Menggunakan Kupon Undian untuk Siswa Kelas VII
Authors: Yanti Welly , Hartono Yusuf , Somakim Somakim
Published: February 2018

This research aims to determine the role of lottery coupons can help students find the concept of probability for class VII. Design Research had chose as a kind of research to achieve the goal. In this reseacrh, a series of learning activities designed and developed based on the hypothesis of the learning process of students. Learning approach used,that is, PMRI approach by involving 32 students of class VII MTs Campang Tiga. This research result Learning trajectory (LT), which contains a series of learning processes in the two activities, that is, understand the concept of sample space, sample point and the event occurrence. Results of the experiments show that with the approach of learning PMRI can define the concept of sample space and sample points and probabilities of an event by taking the lottery tickets. With the line of learning from taking lottery tickets, determine the sample space and sample point and determine the probability of occurrence can improve comprehension, reasoning students on the matters of probability.
Pengembangan Perangkat Pembelajaran Aritmetika Sosial Berbasis Problem Based Learning di Kelas VII SMP
Authors: Ridwan Ruslan , Zulkardi Zulkardi , Darmawijoyo Darmawijoyo
Published: February 2018

The purpose of this study is aimeds to (1) produce the mathematics lesson plan based on social arithmetic Problem Based Learning (PBL) in class VII in viewed from the aspects of validity and practicality and to know the potential effects arising from the development of the lesson plan, (2) describe the characteristics of the lesson plan based on social arithmetic Problem Based Learning. The method of the study was the development research according to the type of formative research by Tessmer. The stages of development were  Self Evaluation, prototyping and product. The subjects were VII.1 grade students of SMP Negeri 1 Muaradua semester 2014/2015 academic year, consistive of 31 people. Data collection techniques used were documentation, walk-throughs, observation sheets, and test results. Data were analyzed qualitatively and quantitatively. The results of data analysis showed that in the mathematics lesson plan based on social arithmetic Problem Based Learning (PBL) were valid, practical, and had a potential effect. The lesson plan had a valid learning in the content, construct, and language experts based on the results of the validation stage of the expert review and the prototype  test on a small group stage, while the practical lesson plan obtained  from the revised test results of one-to-one and small group. Potential effects of the lesson plan was  known from the results of the field test and the results of the student's final test. The results of the student's final test showed 45.16% of the students were is very good category, 32.26%  were  good category, and 22.58% fair category. From the result of observation, the percentage average of studentsâ€™ activity was above 81,25% included in very good category.
Pengembangan Soal Matematika Berkarakteristik TIMSS Tipe Pemecahan Masalah pada Topik Geometri Pengukuran Volume Kubus dan Balok Kelas VIII
Authors: Pratiwi Ika , Zulkardi Zulkardi , Susanti Ely
Published: February 2018

This research aims to produce a TIMSS characterized math problems that are valid and reliable. The method of this research is Design Research. The sample of this study were 31 students of SMP Negeri 1 Inderalaya. The procedure of this study through the stages of Preliminary Evaluation and Formative Evaluation. Based on the results obtained 7 of TIMSS characterized with characteristics (1) using real-life contexts, (2) using characteristics of TIMSS, and (3) the type of problem-solving that problem logically and empirically valid  and reliable. Valid logically be fulfilled from the results of the assessment validator, where the validator comment on the terms of the content, construct, and  language. Valid empirically criteria for both internally for items validity and externally for the whole items validity. Items also expressed reliable with a high level of confidence as the test instrument through items with the analysis result reliability coefficient of 0,703.
Self Efficacy Mahasiswa terhadap Matematika dan Pembelajaran Berbasis Kegiatan Lesson Study
Authors: Risnanosanti Risnanosanti
Published: February 2018

The aim of this research is to description about undergraduate students self efficacy toward mathematics in learning based on lesson study activity. This studied done in mathematics study program of FKIP Muhammadiyah University of Bengkulu in academic year 2015/2016. The subject in this research are undergraduate students whose studied education statistic about 31 students. The instruments are observation sheet and self efficacy scale. The method in this research come from lesson research with lesson study and have three stages namely plan, do and see. This researched have 4 cycles.  Based on data analysis the result of this research is undergraduate student self efficacy is in very good category.
Evaluation of Creative (Metal) Industry Development Policy in Dealing with the ASEAN Economic Community in Sidoarjo
Authors: Rani Berliana Mustika
Published: February 2018

Economic Kreatif is one of the progress factors of the national economy. The creative economy concentrates on the economic dynamics of the creative industry sector, which was recently targeted by the government as an area with significant growth potential. On January 20, 2015, President Joko Widodo established a new non-ministerial institution called the Creative Economy Agency (Bekraf). This body is responsible for the expansion of the creative economy in Indonesia. East Java has 29 districts and 9 cities, a number of which host creative industry businesses in the field of SMEs, namely Sidoarjo district. Sidoarjo regency, which is one of the regencies in East Java, is focused on the development of Micro Small Medium Enterprises in facing the ASEAN Economic Community (AEC). The primary creative industry in Sidoarjo district are the Metal Industries in Ngingas Village, Waru Sub-district. The small and medium industry (IKM) metal center of Ngingas, Sidoarjo, East Java is one of the component suppliers for major manufacturing companies in Indonesia. Craftsmen in these industrial centers are constrained by licensing problems. They are also constrained by limited business capital for the procurement of raw materials and production machinery, and the lack of metal waste disposal facilities.
Implementing the Flipped Classroom in a Veterinary Pre-clinical Science Course: Student Engagement, Performance, and Satisfaction
Authors: Dooley Laura M. , Frankland Sarah , Boller Elise , Tudor Elizabeth
Published: February 2018

There has been a recent move toward active learning pedagogies in veterinary education, with increasing use of a blended approach that incorporates both online resources and live classroom sessions. In this study, an established veterinary pre-clinical course in introductory animal health was transitioned from a traditional didactic lecture delivery mode to a flipped classroom approach with core content delivered online. This study compared the experiences of two cohorts of students who studied the same course in the different formats in consecutive years. Online learning resources included short video segments and a variety of short problems and activities. Online materials were complemented with weekly small-group case-based learning classes facilitated by academic staff. A mixed methods evaluation strategy was applied using student grades, surveys, and focus groups to compare student academic performance, satisfaction, and engagement between the two cohorts. The flipped classroom cohort achieved significantly higher grades in the written answer section of the final examination. Student satisfaction with learning resources was also higher in this cohort. However, satisfaction with other aspects of the course was largely the same for both cohorts. This study revealed some of the challenges associated with achieving adequate student preparation for class using online resources. The outcomes of this study have implications for veterinary educators considering the design and development of new online learning resources.
Imaging and surgical approach to a pediatric penetrating intradural wooden splinter: case report
Authors: Santangelo Gabrielle , Stone Jonathan , Schmidt Tyler , Vates G. Edward , Silberstein Howard , Girgis Pierre
Published: February 2018

Penetrating spinal injuries by wood are infrequently reported. They are particularly rare in children. Only 6 cases of wooden fragments causing penetrating intradural spinal injury have been reported. The authors report a case of a 3-year-old girl who suffered a penetrating wound on her lower back after sliding on a wood floor. A portion of the extraspinal part of the wooden splinter was removed prior to presentation; however, a high suspicion for retained foreign body was maintained. Findings on CT were equivocal, but the diagnosis was confirmed on MRI. An incomplete cauda equina syndrome was noted on examination. She was taken to the operating room for removal of the wooden foreign body, repair of a durotomy, and repair of a CSF leak. At 8 months after surgery, the patient had fully recovered without sequelae. The roles of imaging modalities, prophylactic antibiotics, and surgery are discussed.
Extended middle fossa approach to lateralized pontine cavernomas in children
Authors: Rennert Robert C. , Hoshide Reid , Calayag Mark , Kemp Joanna , Gonda David D. , Meltzer Hal S. , Fukushima Takanori , Day John D. , Levy Michael L.
Published: February 2018

OBJECTIVE

Treatment of hemorrhagic cavernous malformations within the lateral pontine region demands meticulous surgical planning and execution to maximize resection while minimizing morbidity. The authors report a single institution’s experience using the extended middle fossa rhomboid approach for the safe resection of hemorrhagic cavernomas involving the lateral pons.

METHODS

A retrospective chart review was performed to identify and review the surgical outcomes of patients who underwent an extended middle fossa rhomboid approach for the resection of hemorrhagic cavernomas involving the lateral pons during a 10-year period at Rady Children’s Hospital of San Diego. Surgical landmarks for this extradural approach were based on the Fukushima dual-fan model, which defines the rhomboid based on the following anatomical structures: 1) the junction of the greater superficial petrosal nerve (GSPN) and mandibular branch of the trigeminal nerve; 2) the lateral edge of the porus trigeminus; 3) the intersection of the petrous ridge and arcuate eminence; and 4) the intersection of the GSPN, geniculate ganglion, and arcuate eminence. The boundaries of maximal bony removal for this approach are the clivus inferiorly below the inferior petrosal sinus; unroofing of the internal auditory canal posteriorly; skeletonizing the geniculate ganglion, GSPN, and internal carotid artery laterally; and drilling under the Gasserian ganglion anteriorly. This extradural petrosectomy allowed for an approach to all lesions from an area posterolateral to the basilar artery near its junction with cranial nerve (CN) VI, superior to the anterior inferior cerebellar artery and lateral to the origin of CN V. Retraction of the mandibular branch of the trigeminal nerve during this approach allowed avoidance of the region involving CN IV and the superior cerebellar artery.

RESULTS

Eight pediatric patients (4 girls and 4 boys, mean age of 13.2 ± 4.6 years) with hemorrhagic cavernomas involving the lateral pons and extension to the pial surface were treated using the surgical approach described above. Seven cavernomas were completely resected. In the eighth patient, a second peripheral lesion was not resected with the primary lesion. One patient had a transient CN VI palsy, and 2 patients had transient trigeminal hypesthesia/dysesthesia. One patient experienced a CSF leak that was successfully treated by oversewing the wound.

CONCLUSIONS

The extended middle fossa approach can be used for resection of lateral pontine hemorrhagic cavernomas with minimal morbidity in the pediatric population.
The microneurosurgical anatomy legacy of Albert L. Rhoton Jr., MD: an analysis of transition and evolution over 50 years
Authors: Matsushima Toshio , Matsushima Ken , Kobayashi Shigeaki , Lister J. Richard , Morcos Jacques J.
Published: February 2018

Dr. Albert L. Rhoton Jr. was a pioneer of the study of microneurosurgical anatomy. Championing this field over the past half century, he produced more than 500 publications. In this paper, the authors review his body of work, focusing on approximately 160 original articles authored by Rhoton and his microneuroanatomy fellows. The articles are categorized chronologically into 5 stages: 1) dawn of microneurosurgical anatomy, 2) study of basic anatomy for general neurosurgery, 3) study for skull base surgery, 4) study of the internal structures of the brain by fiber dissection, and 5) surgical anatomy dealing with new advanced surgical approaches. Rhoton introduced many new research ideas and surgical techniques and approaches, along with better microsurgery instruments, through studying and teaching microsurgical anatomy, especially during the first stage. The characteristic features of each stage are explained and the transition phases of his projects are reviewed.
Risk of intracranial hemorrhage after carotid artery stenting versus endarterectomy: a population-based study
Authors: Hussain Mohamad A. , Alali Aziz S. , Mamdani Muhammad , Tu Jack V. , Saposnik Gustavo , Salata Konard , Nathens Avery B. , de Mestral Charles , Bhatt Deepak L. , Verma Subodh , Al-Omran Mohammed
Published: February 2018

OBJECTIVE

Intracranial hemorrhage (ICH) associated with cerebral hyperperfusion syndrome is a rare but major complication of carotid artery revascularization. The objective of this study was to compare the rate of ICH after carotid artery stenting (CAS) with that after endarterectomy (CEA).

METHODS

The authors performed a retrospective population-based cohort study of patients who underwent carotid artery revascularization in the province of Ontario, Canada, between 2002 and 2015. The primary outcome was the rate of ICH that occurred within 90 days after carotid artery intervention among patients who underwent CAS versus that of those who underwent CEA. The authors used inverse probability of treatment weighting and propensity scores to account for selection bias. In sensitivity analyses, patients who had postprocedure ischemic stroke were excluded, and the following subgroups were examined: patients with symptomatic and asymptomatic carotid artery stenosis, patients treated between 2010 and 2015, and patients aged ≥ 66 years (to account for antiplatelet and anticoagulant use).

RESULTS

A total of 16,688 patients underwent carotid artery revascularization (14% CAS, 86% CEA). Patients with more comorbid illnesses, symptomatic carotid artery stenosis, or cardiac disease and those who were taking antiplatelet agents or warfarin before surgery were more likely to undergo CAS. Among the overall cohort, 80 (0.48%) patients developed ICH within 90 days (0.85% after CAS, 0.42% after CEA). The 180-day mortality rate after ICH in the overall cohort was 2.7%, whereas the 180-day mortality rate among patients who suffered ICH was 42.5% (40% for CAS-treated patients, 43.3% for CEA-treated patients). In the adjusted analysis, patients who underwent CAS were significantly more likely to have ICH than those who underwent CEA (adjusted OR 1.77; 95% CI 1.32–2.36; p < 0.001). These results were consistent after excluding patients who developed postprocedure ischemic stroke (adjusted OR 1.90; 95% CI 1.41–2.56) and consistent among symptomatic (adjusted OR 1.74; 95% CI 1.16–2.63) and asymptomatic (adjusted OR 1.75; 95% CI 1.16–2.63) patients with carotid artery stenosis, among patients treated between 2010 and 2015 (adjusted OR 2.21; 95% CI 1.45–3.38), and among the subgroup of patients aged ≥ 66 years (adjusted OR 1.53; 95% CI 1.05–2.24) after adjusting for medication use.

CONCLUSIONS

CAS is associated with a rare but higher risk of ICH relative to CEA. Future research is needed to devise strategies that minimize the risk of this serious complication after carotid artery revascularization.
Endoscopic anterior transmaxillary “transalisphenoid” approach to Meckel’s cave and the middle cranial fossa: an anatomical study and clinical application
Authors: Truong Huy Q. , Sun Xicai , Celtikci Emrah , Borghei-Razavi Hamid , Wang Eric W. , Snyderman Carl H. , Gardner Paul A. , Fernandez-Miranda Juan C.
Published: February 2018

OBJECTIVE

Multiple approaches have been designed to reach the medial middle fossa (for lesions in Meckel’s cave, in particular), but an anterior approach through the greater wing of the sphenoid (transalisphenoid) has not been explored. In this study, the authors sought to assess the feasibility of and define the anatomical landmarks for an endoscopic anterior transmaxillary transalisphenoid (EATT) approach to Meckel’s cave and the middle cranial fossa.

METHODS

Endoscopic dissection was performed on 5 cadaver heads injected intravascularly with colored silicone bilaterally to develop the approach and define surgical landmarks. The authors then used this approach in 2 patients with tumors that involved Meckel’s cave and provide their illustrative clinical case reports.

RESULTS

The EATT approach is divided into the following 4 stages: 1) entry into the maxillary sinus, 2) exposure of the greater wing of the sphenoid, 3) exposure of the medial middle fossa, and 4) exposure of Meckel’s cave and lateral wall of the cavernous sinus. The approach provided excellent surgical access to the anterior and lateral portions of Meckel’s cave and offered the possibility of expanding into the infratemporal fossa and lateral middle fossa and, in combination with an endonasal transpterygoid approach, accessing the anteromedial aspect of Meckel’s cave.

CONCLUSIONS

The EATT approach to Meckel’s cave and the middle cranial fossa is technically feasible and confers certain advantages in specific clinical situations. The approach might complement current surgical approaches for lesions of Meckel’s cave and could be ideal for lesions that are lateral to the trigeminal ganglion in Meckel’s cave or extend from the maxillary sinus, infratemporal fossa, or pterygopalatine fossa into the middle cranial fossa, Meckel’s cave, and cavernous sinus, such as schwannomas, meningiomas, and sinonasal tumors and perineural spread of cutaneous malignancy.
Effect of treatment period on outcomes after stereotactic radiosurgery for brain arteriovenous malformations: an international multicenter study
Authors: Patibandla Mohana Rao , Ding Dale , Kano Hideyuki , Starke Robert M. , Lee John Y. K. , Mathieu David , Whitesell Jamie , Pierce John T. , Huang Paul P. , Kondziolka Douglas , Feliciano Caleb , Rodriguez-Mercado Rafael , Almodovar Luis , Grills Inga S. , Silva Danilo , Abbassy Mahmoud , Missios Symeon , Barnett Gene H. , Lunsford L. Dade , Sheehan Jason P.
Published: February 2018

OBJECTIVE

The role of and technique for stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS) in the management of arteriovenous malformations (AVMs) have evolved over the past four decades. The aim of this multicenter, retrospective cohort study was to compare the SRS outcomes of AVMs treated during different time periods.

METHODS

The authors selected patients with AVMs who underwent single-session SRS at 8 different centers from 1988 to 2014 with follow-up ≥ 6 months. The SRS eras were categorized as early (1988–2000) or modern (2001–2014). Statistical analyses were performed to compare the baseline characteristics and outcomes of the early versus modern SRS eras. Favorable outcome was defined as AVM obliteration, no post-SRS hemorrhage, and no permanently symptomatic radiation-induced changes (RICs).

RESULTS

The study cohort comprised 2248 patients with AVMs, including 1584 in the early and 664 in the modern SRS eras. AVMs in the early SRS era were significantly smaller (p < 0.001 for maximum diameter and volume), and they were treated with a significantly higher radiosurgical margin dose (p < 0.001). The obliteration rate was significantly higher in the early SRS era (65% vs 51%, p < 0.001), and earlier SRS treatment period was an independent predictor of obliteration in the multivariate analysis (p < 0.001). The rates of post-SRS hemorrhage and radiological, symptomatic, and permanent RICs were not significantly different between the two groups. Favorable outcome was achieved in a significantly higher proportion of patients in the early SRS era (61% vs 45%, p < 0.001), but the earlier SRS era was not statistically significant in the multivariate analysis (p = 0.470) with favorable outcome.

CONCLUSIONS

Despite considerable advances in SRS technology, refinement of AVM selection, and contemporary multimodality AVM treatment, the study failed to observe substantial improvements in SRS favorable outcomes or obliteration for patients with AVMs over time. Differences in baseline AVM characteristics and SRS treatment parameters may partially account for the significantly lower obliteration rates in the modern SRS era. However, improvements in patient selection and dose planning are necessary to optimize the utility of SRS in the contemporary management of AVMs.
Increase in callosal angle and decrease in ventricular volume after shunt surgery in patients with idiopathic normal pressure hydrocephalus
Authors: Virhammar Johan , Laurell Katarina , Cesarini Kristina Giuliana , Larsson Elna-Marie
Published: February 2018

OBJECTIVE

Postoperative decrease in ventricle size is usually not detectable either by visual assessment or by measuring the Evans index in patients with idiopathic normal pressure hydrocephalus (iNPH). The aim of the present study was to investigate whether the angle between the lateral ventricles (the callosal angle [CA]) increases and ventricular volume decreases after shunt surgery in patients with iNPH.

METHODS

Magnetic resonance imaging of the brain was performed before and 3 months after shunt surgery in 18 patients with iNPH. The CA and Evans index were measured on T1-weighted 3D MR images, and ventricular volume contralateral to the shunt valve was measured with quantitative MRI.

RESULTS

The CA was larger postoperatively (mean 78°, 95% CI 69°–87°) than preoperatively (mean 67°, 95% CI 60°–73°; p < 0.001). The volume of the lateral ventricle contralateral to the shunt valve decreased from 73 ml (95% CI 66–80 ml) preoperatively to 63 ml (95% CI 54–72 ml) postoperatively (p < 0.001). The Evans index was 0.365 (95% CI 0.35–0.38) preoperatively and 0.358 (95% CI 0.34–0.38) postoperatively (p < 0.05). Postoperative change of CA showed a negative correlation with change of ventricular volume (r = −0.76, p < 0.01).

CONCLUSIONS

In this sample of patients with iNPH, the CA increased and ventricular volume decreased after shunt surgery. The relative difference was most pronounced for the CA, indicating that this accessible, noninvasive radiological marker should be evaluated further as an indirect method to determine shunt function in patients with iNPH.
S-1 alar/iliac screw technique for spinopelvic fixation
Authors: DePasse J. Mason , Valdes Mauricio , Palumbo Mark A. , Daniels Alan H. , Eberson Craig P.
Published: February 2018

Spinopelvic fixation provides an important anchor for long fusions in spinal deformity surgery, and it is also used in the treatment of other spine pathologies. Iliac screws are known to sometimes require reoperation due to pain resulting from hardware prominence and skin injury. S-2 alar/iliac (S2AI) screws do not often require removal, but they may provide inadequate fixation in select cases. In this paper the authors describe a technique for S-1 alar/iliac screws that may be used independently or as a supplement to S2AI screws. A preliminary biomechanical analysis and 2 clinical case examples are also provided.
Effect of concentration, method of auxin application and cultivation conditions on in vitro rooting of bog blueberry (Vaccinium uliginosum L.)
Authors: Erst Anna A. , Gorbunov Aleksey B. , Erst Andrey S.
Published: February 2018

BACKGROUND: Bog blueberry, Vaccinium uliginosum is one of the newer fruit crops. Choosing the most appropriate methods for mass vegetative propagation of V. uliginosum cultivars, including in vitro propagation, is crucial. OBJECTIVE: We investigated the effect of growth regulators and light on in vitro rhizogenesis of V. uliginosum to determine the optimal method of propagation. METHODS: The following cultivation techniques were tested on microshoots of bog blueberry varieties ‘Golubaya rossyp’, ‘Nektarnaya’, ‘Shegarskaya’ and ‘Iksinskaya’: 1) ½ Anderson (A) medium supplemented with 3 and 10 μM indole-3-butyric acid (IBA) or indole-3-acetic acid (IAA) and 2) 24-h aqueous treatments of microshoots with 148 μM IBA or 171 μM IAA and further cultivation in ½ A medium. In addition, we tested precultivation in darkness for 3 d versus a 16/8-h photoperiod. RESULTS: 100% rooting was observed in ‘Golubaya rossyp’ in all treatments of the experiments and with ‘Nektarnaya’ on the growth-regulator-free ½ A medium and after treating the microshoots with 171 μM IAA solution. Precultivation in darkness produced a positive effect on rooting in ‘Shegarskaya’ and ‘Iksinskaya.’ CONCLUSIONS: Response to in vitro rooting techniques varied between cultivars of V. uliginosum. Treatment of microshoots with auxin solutions improved in vitro rooting.
Characterisation of bioactive compounds in berries from plants grown under innovative photovoltaic greenhouses
Authors: Blando Federica , Gerardi Carmela , Renna Massimiliano , Castellano Sergio , Serio Francesco
Published: February 2018

BACKGROUND: Bioactive compounds, mainly polyphenols, present in berries, are thought to be responsible for the health benefits of these fruit. Therefore, it is worthwhile to define the optimal environmental conditions to maximise their polyphenol content. OBJECTIVE: With the aim to define the optimal conditions for berry cultivation in an innovative environment, red raspberry, wild strawberry and blackberry plants were grown in a traditional greenhouse in comparison with two photovoltaic greenhouses with different shading area. METHODS: Hydroalcoholic extracts of ripe berries were evaluated by HPLC analysis, for their anthocyanins, organic acids and sugar contents. Moreover, phenolic content (by the Folin-Ciocalteu assay) and antioxidant activity (by the Trolox equivalent antioxidant capacity-TEAC assay) were assayed on the same berry extracts. RESULTS: Total anthocyanins, phenols content and antioxidant capacity tended to increase in berries grown under shading. The sugars content was, mostly, not negatively influenced by the shading. Conversely, the organic acids content, in some instances, increased along with the shading percentage. CONCLUSIONS: It can be concluded that it is possible to combine the greenhouse production of high-quality berries (with a particular focus on polyphenols, bioactive compounds valuable for human health) with the production of renewable energy, in the context of sustainable agriculture.
Role of poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase-1 and NF-kappaB as potential risk factor in the development of non-small cell lung cancer in Chinese individuals
Authors: Chen Anguo , Yu Zaicheng , Zhang Renquan , Zhao Qihong , Ge Jianjun
Published: February 2018

The objective of this study was to evaluate the role of poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase-1 (PARP-1) and NF-kappaB as potential risk factor in the development of non-small cell lung cancer in Chinese individuals (n=110) of either gender aged <65 years. Healthy Chinese individuals (n=110) were included as control. Polymerase chain reaction was used to determine the role of PART-1 and NF-kappaB using plasma sample. The individuals with the GA genotype and carrier of G allele were at high-risk of non-small cell lung cancer. There was involvement of dL/is of the NF-kappaB in non-small cell lung cancer. Our study result suggests that the PARP-1 and NF-kappaB play an important role in development of non-small cell lung cancer in China.
“It usually works out, but you never know”. Emotion Work as a Strategy for Coping in the Insecure Artistic Career.
Authors: Lindström Sofia
Published: February 2018

This article explores how contemporary Swedish visual artists manage and make sense of career insecurity through emotion work. The specific emotions discussed in the material are trust, hope and luck. Emotion work is related to coping in an increasingly insecure world of work in late modern capitalism, which has been theorized as relying on the creativity, passion and subjectivity of workers. Through analysing what the artists anticipate of their future careers, the study found the main desire of the artists to be the continuation of their creative endeavour—an endeavour not necessarily related to professional success but rather to identity formation. This understanding of success forms part of two overarching discourses found in the material: art as non-work discourse and the art world as arbitrary discourse, which both relate to certain emotional work when failing/succeeding to uphold the artistic creation. The prestigious arts education of the respondents is analysed as part of sustaining hope of continuation when future career prospects seem grim. Trust and luck are analysed as emotion work in relation to having experiences of success, even though the art world is discursively framed as arbitrary. The concluding argument of the article is that understanding emotion work in relation to the insecure or even failed career can shed light on resources related to social position rather than properties of the individual psyche.
Effect of Elemental Sulfur as Fertilizer Ingredient on the Mobilization of Iron from the Iron Pools of a Calcareous Soil Cultivated with Durum Wheat and the Crop’s Iron and Sulfur Nutrition
Authors: Bouranis Dimitris , Chorianopoulou Styliani , Margetis Miltiadis , Saridis Georgios , Sigalas Petros
Published: February 2018

The granules of conventional fertilizers have been enriched recently with 2% elemental sulfur (S0) via a binding material of organic nature and such fertilizers are suitable for large scale agriculture. In a previous work, we demonstrated that a durum wheat crop that received the enriched fertilization scheme (FBS0-crop) accumulated a higher amount of Fe compared to the durum wheat crop fertilized by the corresponding conventional fertilization scheme (F-crop). In this study, we investigated the effect of S0 on the contingent mobilization of iron from the iron pools of the calcareous field that affiliated the durum wheat crop and the corresponding effect on the crop’s iron nutrition and sulfur nutrition. A sequential extraction of Fe from root zone soil (rhizosoil) was applied and the fluctuations of these fractions during crop development were monitored. The fertilization with FBS0 at sowing affected the iron fractions of the rhizosoil towards iron mobilization, thus providing more iron to the crop, which apart from the iron nutrition fortified the crop’s sulfur nutrition, too. No iron was found as iron attached to carbonates of the rhizosoil. Fluctuations of the iron pool, bound or adsorbed to the organic matter, were exactly the opposite to those of the iron pool associated with the clay particles in both treatments, suggesting iron exchange between the two pools. Replenishment of the F-crop’s Fe content and a deficit in the FBS0-crop’s Fe content in the rhizosoil were found at the end of the cultivation period. Furthermore, the initiation of the fast stem elongation stage (day 125) constituted a turning point. Before day 125, the use of FBS0 increased the iron concentration in the main stems and this was an early fortification effect, followed by an increase in the organic S concentration. Following day 125, the FBS0-crop consisted of plants with higher main stems and less tillers. A late fortification effect was observed in the iron concentration of the main stems and their heads after the stage of complete flowering. Prior to harvesting in the FBS0-crop, all plant parts were heavier, with more iron and organic sulfur accumulated in these plant parts, and the obtained commercial yield of the FBS0-crop was higher by 27.3%.
Localized Agri-Food Systems and Biodiversity
Authors: Bele Bolette , Norderhaug Ann , Sickel Hanne
Published: February 2018

Interest in localized agri-food systems has grown significantly in recent years. They are associated with several benefits and are seen as important for rural development. An important share of the academic debate addresses the contribution of localized food systems to the current and/or future sustainability of agriculture. Sustainability is defined in several ways, but many scholars recognize that sustainability can only be achieved by a combination of socio-economic, cultural, and environmental aspects. However, the attributes and indicators used for sustainability analyses also differ. Biodiversity is, for instance, often not included in analyses of environmental sustainability even if biodiversity is of crucial importance for longer-term ecological sustainability. To contribute to the debate about the importance of localized food production for sustainability from the environmental point of view, specifically with regard to biodiversity, this is therefore discussed based on the results of several studies presented in this paper. The studies focus on Nordic low-intensity livestock systems related to species-rich semi-natural grasslands. All the studies show that low-intensive agriculture and use of semi-natural grasslands may play an important role in maintaining biodiversity on both small and large scales. They also show that milk and dairy products from free-ranging livestock in heterogeneous landscapes with semi-natural grasslands may have a unique quality associated with local grazing resources. Thus, producers can combine production of food of documented high nutritional and gastronomic value with maintenance of biodiversity, i.e., localized agri-food production based on low-intensive agriculture systems and semi-natural grasslands may be a win-win recipe for both farmers and the society.
Effects of Climate Change on Grassland Biodiversity and Productivity: The Need for a Diversity of Models
Authors: Van Oijen Marcel , Bellocchi Gianni , Höglind Mats
Published: February 2018

There is increasing evidence that the impact of climate change on the productivity of grasslands will at least partly depend on their biodiversity. A high level of biodiversity may confer stability to grassland ecosystems against environmental change, but there are also direct effects of biodiversity on the quantity and quality of grassland productivity. To explain the manifold interactions, and to predict future climatic responses, models may be used. However, models designed for studying the interaction between biodiversity and productivity tend to be structurally different from models for studying the effects of climatic impacts. Here we review the literature on the impacts of climate change on biodiversity and productivity of grasslands. We first discuss the availability of data for model development. Then we analyse strengths and weaknesses of three types of model: ecological, process-based and integrated. We discuss the merits of this model diversity and the scope for merging different model types.
A Novel Non-Invasive Selection Criterion for the Preservation of Primitive Dutch Konik Horses
Authors: May-Davis Sharon , Brown Wendy , Shorter Kathleen , Vermeulen Zefanja , Butler Raquel , Koekkoek Marianne
Published: February 2018

The Dutch Konik is valued from a genetic conservation perspective and also for its role in preservation of natural landscapes. The primary management objective for the captive breeding of this primitive horse is to maintain its genetic purity, whilst also maintaining the nature reserves on which they graze. Breeding selection has traditionally been based on phenotypic characteristics consistent with the breed description, and the selection of animals for removal from the breeding program is problematic at times due to high uniformity within the breed, particularly in height at the wither, colour (mouse to grey dun) and presence of primitive markings. With the objective of identifying an additional non-invasive selection criterion with potential uniqueness to the Dutch Konik, this study investigates the anatomic parameters of the distal equine limb, with a specific focus on the relative lengths of the individual splint bones. Post-mortem dissections performed on distal limbs of Dutch Konik (n = 47) and modern domesticated horses (n = 120) revealed significant differences in relation to the length and symmetry of the 2nd and 4th Metacarpals and Metatarsals. Distal limb characteristics with apparent uniqueness to the Dutch Konik are described which could be an important tool in the selection and preservation of the breed.