bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Presidents and Cabinet Payoffs in Coalition Governments
Authors: Bucur Cristina
Published: July 2019

As a key consequence of government formation negotiations among executive and legislative actors, portfolio allocation offers a window to understand the impact of constitutional design and presidential prerogatives on cabinet dynamics across democratic regime types. This article uses Shugart and Carey’s emphasis on the implications of regime distinctions and institutional variation in presidential powers for executive-legislative relations as a starting point for an examination of the extent to which presidents influence government formation outcomes in parliamentary and semi-presidential systems. Many presidents in these political systems have some influence on government formation, which enables them to shape cabinet composition. Yet, whether these powers advantage presidential parties in reaping more cabinet spoils than their proportional share has yet to be investigated. Using data on 442 government formation situations in 23 European parliamentary and semi-presidential democracies during 1945–2015, this study finds that parties of strong presidents generally, or presidents formally empowered to choose a formateur, are more likely to be advantaged in the allocation of cabinet seats than their peers who are not allied with the head of state.
Design of an adaptive medium access control protocol for wireless body area networks with heterogeneous sensors
Authors: Rikli Nasser-Eddine , Al-Mazroa Areej
Published: July 2019

The IEEE 802.15.6 standard emerged as the most suitable standard that fits the special requirements of wireless body area networks. It provides flexibility to designers by recommending the use of several medium access control layer techniques, but does not specify how to combine some or all these recommended techniques to form the most efficient wireless body area network medium access control for a specific scenario. Our goal here is to design a wireless body area network medium access control that provides an optimal combination of these basic techniques that are available in the standard, by taking into consideration the variability and heterogeneity of the sensors. The performance of the proposed techniques is evaluated using some of the standard performance measures such as throughput, delay, and energy consumption.
Analysis of factors affecting drilling friction and investigation of the friction reduction tool in horizontal wells in Sichuan
Authors: Chen Yong , He Chuan , Zhou Xu , Yu Hao
Published: July 2019

Based on field data and the related theories, the effects of drill string length, rotation speed, trajectory, and drilling fluid density on the friction during horizontal well drilling are analyzed in Sichuan. With increasing the length of drill string in the horizontal section, the friction grows. The drill pipe rotates faster and the torque decreases. Large undulation of borehole deviation and the “W” shape of the horizontal section lead to excessive friction. A higher fluid density causes higher torque and drag. Moreover, a friction reduction tool is designed to reduce friction, decrease the wear between the casing and the drill pipe joint, and prevent the differential pressure sticking, which improves the rate of penetration, and the specially designed spiral diversion channels improve the efficiency of borehole cleaning. The field experimental results have shown that the accumulated operational time of the friction reduction tool is more than 130 h and its fatigue life reaches up to 3 × 105 cycles. A plan of improving the tool structure is proposed to reduce the mud balling after the experiment. Finally, the mathematical model of calculating the spacing of the friction reduction tools is established, which provides technical support for investigating the friction in horizontal well drilling.
Differential left ventricular and left atrial remodelling in heart failure with preserved ejection fraction patients with and without diabetes
Authors: Gulsin Gaurav S. , Kanagala Prathap , Chan Daniel C. S. , Cheng Adrian S. H. , Athithan Lavanya , Graham-Brown Matthew P. M. , Singh Anvesha , Yang Jing , Li Zhuyin , Khunti Kamlesh , Davies Melanie J. , Arnold Jayanth R. , Squire Iain B. , Ng Leong L. , McCann Gerry P.
Published: July 2019

Background:

Attempts to characterize cardiac structure in heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) in people with type 2 diabetes (T2D) have yielded inconsistent findings. We aimed to determine whether patients with HFpEF and T2D have a distinct pattern of cardiac remodelling compared with those without diabetes and whether remodelling was related to circulating markers of inflammation and fibrosis and clinical outcomes.

Methods:

We recruited 140 patients with HFpEF (75 with T2D and 65 without). Participants underwent comprehensive cardiovascular phenotyping, including echocardiography, cardiac magnetic resonance imaging and plasma biomarker profiling.

Results:

Patients with T2D were younger (age 70 ± 9 versus 75 ± 9y, p = 0.002), with evidence of more left ventricular (LV) concentric remodelling (LV mass/volume ratio 0.72 ± 0.15 versus 0.62 ± 0.16, p = 0.024) and smaller indexed left atrial (LA) volumes (maximal LA volume index 48 ± 20 versus 59 ± 29 ml/m2, p = 0.004) than those without diabetes. Plasma biomarkers of inflammation and extracellular matrix remodelling were elevated in those with T2D. Overall, there were 45 hospitalizations for HF and 22 deaths over a median follow-up period of 47 months [interquartile range (IQR) 38–54]. There was no difference in the primary composite endpoint of hospitalization for HF and mortality between groups. On multivariable Cox regression analysis, age, prior HF hospitalization, history of pulmonary disease and LV mass/volume were independent predictors of the primary endpoint.

Conclusions:

Patients with HFpEF and T2D have increased concentric LV remodelling, smaller LA volumes and evidence of increased systemic inflammation compared with those without diabetes. This suggests the underlying pathophysiology for the development of HFpEF is different in patients with and without T2D.

ClinicalTrials.gov identifier:

NCT03050593.
Pruritus after discontinuation of cetirizine
Authors: Chung Amy H. , La Grenade Lois , Harinstein Lisa M.
Published: July 2019

Background:

Intense pruritus or itching emerging after discontinuation of cetirizine has been the subject of postmarketing reports submitted to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), published in the medical literature, and discussed on the internet. To better understand and further investigate this adverse event, we analyzed cases of pruritus occurring after discontinuation of cetirizine in the FDA Adverse Event Reporting System (FAERS) database and medical literature.

Methods:

We conducted a retrospective study to identify and describe cases of pruritus occurring after discontinuation of cetirizine in the FAERS database and medical literature through April 24, 2017. Data collected from the reports included demographic information, reason for use, serious outcome, report source, duration of cetirizine use, time to onset of pruritus after cetirizine discontinuation, presence of associated urticaria, treatment for pruritus, concomitant comorbidities and medications associated with pruritus, rechallenge information, and patient outcome information.

Results:

We identified 146 cases of pruritus after discontinuation of cetirizine. Reporting frequency increased starting in 2008. The median patient age was 38 years ( n = 141), ranging from 6 to 71 years, and cases were predominantly reported in females ( n = 110). Most cases ( n = 115) were submitted directly to the FDA from consumers or healthcare providers. The median duration of use of cetirizine prior to discontinuation was 24 months ( n = 130), ranging from 0.3 to 172.2 months. The median time to onset of pruritus from discontinuation was 2 days ( n = 91), ranging from 0.5 to 5 days. Of the 55 cases that reported discontinuation of cetirizine again after restarting, 54 reported pruritus recurrence.

Conclusions:

Our case series provided evidence of an association between the discontinuation of cetirizine and the development of pruritus. The mechanism by which cetirizine causes pruritus upon discontinuation is unknown. Patients and prescribers should have knowledge of this adverse event, given the widespread use and availability of cetirizine, and potential impact on patient quality of life.
Role of Ajwa dates in ameliorating diclofenac sodium-induced nephrotoxicity and cardiovascular risk factors in mice
Authors: Eltahir Heba M , Aljuhani Naif , Alsubhi Sara A , Alahmadi Ghada M , Elbadawy Hossein M , Abouzied Mekky M
Published: July 2019

The study aims at evaluating the protective effects of Ajwa dates extract against diclofenac sodium (DFS)-induced nephrotoxicity. A total of 30 male albino mice were divided into three groups. Group 1 received water per oral gavage for 14 days and saline per intra-peritoneal (IP) dose for the days 12–14. Group 2 received water like Group 1 and a daily IP dose of DFS for the days 12–14. Group 3 received 1 gm/kg Ajwa extract in water for 14 days and a daily IP dose for the days 12–14. Biochemical investigation revealed DFS-induced increase in serum urea and creatinine levels along with depleted antioxidant capacity, altered lipid profile, and hyperglycemia. Ajwa extract successfully protected against DFS-induced adverse effects, normalizing renal parameters biochemically and histologically, and prevented its hyperlipidemic and hyperglycemic effects. Ajwa protected against endogenous antioxidant capacity depletion in treated animals. Hydroalcoholic Ajwa extract is a promising candidate for protection against DFS-induced hyperlipidemia and nephrotoxicity.
Sociodemographic Characteristics of Mission of Mercy Attendees in Wisconsin
Authors: Okunseri C. , Eggert E. , Zheng C. , Eichmiller F. , Okunseri E. , Szabo A.
Published: July 2019

Objective:

Mission of Mercy (MoM) events are scheduled to provide care to populations suffering from urgent needs and inadequate access to dental care in the United States. This study examined individual and county-level characteristics of MoM attendees and the factors associated with changes in the rate of attendance.

Methods:

Deidentified archival data for MoM events available from the America’s Dentists Care Foundation (2013–2016) were analyzed. Summary statistics were calculated separately for each year. Chi-square test was performed to identify changes in attendance distribution over time. Poisson regression analyses were conducted to test changes in the rate of attendance with and without adjustment for county-level characteristics and history of prior MoM events.

Results:

Total numbers of attendees at Wisconsin MoM events were 1,560, 1,635, 1,187, and 951 in 2013, 2014, 2015, and 2016, respectively. Attendees were mostly female (>50%) and White (58%–81%), and mean age ranged between 36.5 and 39.2 y. The average travel distance ranged between 27 and 80 miles. Residents of counties where MoM events were held in previous years were more likely to attend another MoM event after adjusting for county distance to current location. After adjusting for dentists-to-population ratio, event history, and county distance to event location, we found that there was no statistically significant change in the rate of attendance from 2013 to 2016.

Conclusions:

Previous attendees with experience of attending a MoM event in their counties of residence were more likely to attend another MoM event. Higher rates of attendance were associated with shorter travel distances to MoM events.

Knowledge Transfer Statement:

The Mission of Mercy (MoM) events are promoted by local dental organizations to highlight the issue of access to dental care and bring greater awareness to the problem by providing urgent dental care to populations in need. Through the data-sharing practices and analyses, policy makers, dental health advocates, and program organizers will have a better understanding of the impact and reach of the program. Findings from this study will help to expand program practices, promote efficiency, and aid in the identification of appropriate event locations, innovative strategies, and public policies relevant to addressing access to dental care.
Low-density lipoprotein receptor gene mutation at Exon 2 and 4 in premature coronary artery disease in our population
Authors: Rehman Saqibah , Ahmad Tariq Mahmood , Hayat Asma , Tahir Sufyan
Published: July 2019

Objective: To determine the frequency of mutations in Low density lipoprotein receptor gene at exon 2 and 4 and its association with premature coronary artery disease (PCAD).

Methods: A case-control study was conducted at Armed Forces Institute of Cardiology and Chemical Pathology department of Army Medical College Rawalpindi for a period of six months from June 2017 to December 2017. A sample size of 50 (40 patients, 10 controls) with 5% significance and 95% confidence interval was calculated with 4:1 case to control ratio. Consecutive sampling was used for distribution of participants into both groups. Diagnosed patients of premature coronary artery disease that is any cardiac event before the age of 45 in males and 50 in females were taken as cases. Controls were healthy males less than 45 years of age and females less than 50 years. Patients with diabetes mellitus, thyroid illnesses, any acute infection, low white blood cells count and kidney disorders were excluded. A total of fasting 10ml blood was withdrawn from each patient. 5ml was utilized for the routine blood tests and the rest 5ml was used for further genetic analysis.

Results: Total 50 participants were included in study. Mean age of participants in years was 42.48 ± 4.02 SD. Mean total cholesterol (TC) (mmol/l) were higher among cases (4.91±0.64 SD) than controls (4.22±0.66 SD). Serum triglyceride(Tg) (mmol/l) and low-density lipoprotein(LDL) (mmol/l) was also high among cases (2.07±0.58; 2.84±0.46) than controls (1.99±0.24; 1.98±0.32). One synonymous mutation in exon 2 of low-density lipoprotein receptor gene (LDLR) and one non-synonymous mutation in exon 4 (LDLR gene) were identified in our population in four patients among the forty cases. Data was analyzed by Statistical Package for the Social Science (SPSS) 21 version and a p-value of less than 0.05 was taken as significant.

Conclusion: Glutamic acid (E) is replaced by Lysine (K) at position number 207 (E207K) mutation at exon 4 of low-density lipoprotein receptor (LDLR) gene may be the causative genetic basis of premature coronary artery disease among Pakistani population. The identified synonymous mutation at exon 2 was not causative as there is no change in the amino acid.

doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.35.4.1308

How to cite this:Rehman S, Ahmad TM, Hayat A, Tahir S. Low-density lipoprotein receptor gene mutation at Exon 2 and 4 in premature coronary artery disease in our population. Pak J Med Sci. 2019;35(4):1143-1148. doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.35.4.1308

This is an Open Access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0), which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.
Hypopituitarism other than sellar and parasellar tumors or traumatic brain injury assessed in a tertiary hospital
Authors: Malik Sarwar , Kiran Zareen , Rashid Muhammad Owais , Mawani Minaz , Gulab Asma , Masood Muhammad Qamar , Islam Najmul
Published: July 2019

Objective: Data regarding the etiology, clinical and biochemical patterns in hypopituitarism is scant for Pakistan. We describe the characteristics of patients with hypopituitarism other than sellar and parasellar tumors or traumatic brain injury from a tertiary care center in Pakistan.

Methods: We conducted a retrospective descriptive study in the Aga Khan University Hospital, Karachi, Pakistan. We studied all patients presenting with hypopituitarism, between January 2004 and December 2013. Clinical, hormonal and imaging data pertinent to the study was collected according to inclusion criteria.

Results: Forty-two patients presented to the endocrinology clinics at the Aga Khan University Hospital during the study period. Thirty-seven patients (88.1%) were females. Mean age ± standard deviation of the participants was 53.8 ± 14.7 years. Sixteen patients had secondary infertility and all were females; a majority of patients in this group had Sheehan’s syndrome (n=8) followed by empty sella syndrome (n=3), partial empty sella syndrome (n=2), idiopathic cause (n=2) and tuberculoma (n=1). Eighteen females (48.6%) reported inability to lactate.

Conclusions: Non-traumatic hypopituitarism was more common in women, with Sheehan syndrome being the most common cause of hypopituitarism in our study (35.7%). Secondary hypothyroidism was the most common hormonal deficiency. The most commonly reported symptom was weakness.

doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.35.4.174

How to cite this:Malik S, Kiran Z, Rashid MO, Mawani M, Gulab A, Masood MQ, et al. Hypopituitarism other than sellar and parasellar tumors or traumatic brain injury assessed in a tertiary hospital. Pak J Med Sci. 2019;35(4):1149-1154. doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.35.4.174

This is an Open Access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0), which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.
Synthesis and Characterization of A-Site Doped Lamno3 Nano Catalysts and its Application for Soot Oxidation
Authors: Akinlolu Kayode , Adebisi Abimbola , Omolara Bamgboye , Kehinde Ogunniran
Published: July 2019

A series of barium doped LaMnO3 perovskite nano catalysts were synthesized using the citric acid sol gel method. The prepared nano catalysts were characterized using the various characterization techniques such as XRD, ICPAES, FTIR, SEM, HRTEM, TPR and BET. The Xrd results showed the purity of the prepared catalyst as no segregated phases were observed and also confirming the crystallinity of the prepared catalyst. The surface area achieved in this experiment presented one of the highest reported in literature. The doping of the perovskite catalysts helps in increasing the surface area. The ICPAES results shows the efficiency of the preparation method adopted. The catalytic evaluation shows that upon introduction of Ba into the perovskite structure, the catalytic performance of the catalyst were greatly increased with LBM3 giving the lowest T50 at 550°C
The Combination Effect of Gamma Irradiation and Salt Concentration on 2-Acetyl-1-Pyrroline Content, Proline Content and Growth of Thai Fragrant Rice (KDML 105)
Authors: Sansenya Sompong , Hua Yanling , Chumanee Saowapa , Sricheewin Chanun
Published: July 2019

KDML 105 is the famous fragrant rice of Thailand. 2AP acts as the characteristic compounds in fragrant-rice cultivars. 2AP accumulation has been reported in relationship with proline content and the growth rate of rice. Several factors have been reported to affect the poline and 2AP contents. We determined the combinatorial effect of gamma irradiation and salt concentration on the 2AP and proline contents of 5 day-old KDML 105 rice-seedling. In the growth condition under 20 mM of NaCl concentration the proline content of gamma irradiated rice increased, compared to the gamma-irradiated rice treated without 20 mM of NaCl concentration. While, the shoot-length of 5 day-old gamma irradiated rice-seedlings under 20mM NaCl concentration cannot be observed when compared to gamma irradiated rice-seedling without salt concentration. The 2AP content of gamma irradiated rice-seedlings under 20 mM of NaCl concentration had approximately 2.6 to 3.1 times higher than in the growth condition without salt concentration of gamma irradiated rice-seedlings. Our results indicate that the combination of gamma irradiation technique and salt concentration can be used for improving the 2AP content in rice.
Preparation of Stereocomplex Polylactide/Poly(Butylene Succinate) Blends by Melt Blending
Authors: Jirum Jenjira , Baimark Yodthong
Published: July 2019

Biodegradable polymer blends based on stereocomplex polylactide (scPLA) and poly(butylene succinate) (PBS) were successfully formed by continuous two-step melt blending. An epoxy-based, multifunctional chain extender was chosen to enhance phase compatibility of the blends. Effects of PBS and chain extender on thermal, phase morphology, thermo-mechanical and tensile properties of the scPLA/PBS blends were determined. The PBS blending enhanced plasticizing effect and cold-crystallization of scPLA matrix in an amorphous region. The chain-extension reaction inhibited crystallization of PBS, PLA homo-crystallites and PLA stereocomplex-crystallites as well as reduced thermal stability of the scPLA/PBS blends because of formation of long-chain branched structures. It has been shown that the poor phase compatibility between continuous scPLA and dispersed PBS phases of the blends may be solved through melt blending with a chain extender. The chain extension of scPLA/PBS blends also improved thermo-mechanical properties and flexibility of the scPLA/PBS blend films.
Comparative Toxicity of CuZn Nanoparticles with Different Physical and Chemical Characteristics
Authors: Miroshnikov Sergey , Sizova Elena , Yausheva Elena , Uimin Michael , Konev Alexander , Minin Artem , Yermakov Anatoly , Nikiyan Hike
Published: July 2019

In the experiment, the biological activity of copper and zinc alloy nanoparticles prepared by gas phase synthesis in an argon atmosphere was assessed. Nanoparticle preparations differed in phase composition and specific surface for CuZnNPs1 - 36 m2/g, CuZnNPs2 - 22 and CuZnNPs3 NP - 15 m2/g. As the test cultures, E.coli K12 TG1 pF1, E.coli K12 MG1655 katG::lux, E.coli MG1655 pRecA-lux, E.coli K12 MG1655 psoxS::lux were used. As the results showed, phase composition and specific surface area of nanoparticles were their toxicity factors. CuZnNPs3 is the most toxic among the studied samples, the percentage of zinc phase in it, in comparison with other tested powders, is the largest (52.3%), and the percentage of metallic copper is the smallest (7.9%). Within further works is to carry out controlled synthesis that will allow changing the toxicity of the nanoparticles under study by phase composition and specific surface.
Antioxidant Potential of Pistacia Vera L. Fruit Hull, Anchusa Strigosa Flowers and Ilex Paraguariensis A. St.-Hil. leaves Extract
Authors: Al-Khateeb Ekbal Hasan , Al-Assi Ghada Ahmad , Shakya Ashok K. , Al-Rawi Naseer , Shalan Naeem
Published: July 2019

The macerated methanolic extract of P. vera L., A. strigosa and I. paraguariensis A. St.-Hil. were used for evaluating their antioxidant. The results of present study showed that the IC50 value for Pistacia vera L., Anchusa strigosa and Ilex paraguariensis A. St.-Hil. extracts were 5.85 ± 0.11, 43.75 ± 1.05 and 8.98 ± 0.65µg/ml respectively compared to 1.48 ± 0.05 µg/ml of ascorbic acid against DPPH radical. The IC50 values for β-carotene bleaching (BCB) assay for P. vera L., A. strigosa and I. paraguariensis A. St.-Hil. extracts were 390.1 ± 7.5, 425.8 ± 6.5 and 410.2 ± 9.0 µg/ml respectively compared to 9.5 ± 0.4 µg/ml of rutin. The results of β-carotene bleaching (BCB) assay showed that the plant extract exhibits weak activity compared to rutin. In conclusion, the present study indicates that these plants and their phytochemical constituents can be exploited in future extensively for controlling oxidative stress and ailments.
The Potential use of Geraniol Esters from Citronella Oil as Anticancer Agents
Authors: Widiyarti Galuh , Megawati Megawati , Hanafi Muhammad
Published: July 2019

Geraniol which is mainly contained in citronella oil is one of the Indonesian natural products with anticancer potential. In this study, synthesis of geranyl butyrate, geranyl caproate, and geranyl caprylate from geraniol was conducted using sodium hydroxide as a catalyst. The aim was to enhance the anticancer activity of geraniol as a starting material. In order to achieve this, its esters were identified through the use of Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectroscopy (GCMS), Fourier Transform Infra Red (FTIR), Thin Layer Chromatography (TLC), and Proton Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (1H-NMR). They were analyzed for their potential as anticancer agents through Brine Shrimp Lethality Test (BSLT) against Artemia salina Leach, Mosmann method against murine leukemia (P388) cells and normal (Vero) cells. It was found that geraniol esters have the potential to be anticancer compounds. This was indicated by LC50 values of 0.96-1.46 µg/ml against A. salina L, IC50 values of 22.34-32.29 µg/ml against P388 cells, and very less cytotoxic effect on Vero cells with IC50 values of 116.08-172.93 µg/ml. Therefore, there is an expectation that acyclic ester compounds should be used in treating cancer.
Modifier Based Enhancement in Physical and Chemical Properties of Bitumen
Authors: Sharma Sonu , Sharma Sitansh , Upadhyay Niraj
Published: July 2019

Bitumen is used worldwide in the construction of flexible pavements and because of its wide applicability its performance is needed to be improved in all regards like, Chemical, and thermal stability, fatigue life, moisture susceptibility, mechanical strength, temperature susceptibility, rutting resistance, ageing resistance, tensile strength, viscosity, stiffness etc. In this connection, researchers have used various modifiers to improve the pavement performance. The present paper provides a brief review of different modifiers in road making industry. Some popular polymer modifiers like low density polythene, high density polythene, polypropylene, ethyl vinyl acetate, styrene butadiene styrene and industrial waste are reviewed in terms of their role in bitumen modification. It also discusses enhancement in properties of bitumen after modification in order to improve properties of pavement. Through the reviewed literature, it is found that the addition of the polymers to bitumen tends to enhance fatigue and cracking resistance mainly. The future development and recommendation in modifiers for bitumen modification are also suggested in the end.
Cadmium and Lead Adsorption Capacities of Nigerian Ultisol Soil of Tropics
Authors: Oluwasola Henry Olumayowa , Asegbeloyin Jonnie Niyi , Ochonogor Alfred Ezinna , Ani Julius Udeh , Ibeji Collins Ugochukwu , Oyeka Ebube Evaristus
Published: July 2019

The study investigates the sorption of cadmium (Cd) and lead (Pb) by Nsukka urban soils, a Nigeria soil classified as an ultisol soil of tropics. Laboratory batch technique was utilized to investigate the effect of pH, temperature, contact time, and concentration on the adsorption process. Results showed that adsorption efficiency of the soils for Cd2+ and Pb2+ increased with increase in pH, temperature, and contact time but decreased with increase in concentration. The data from adsorption study was fitted to the Langmuir, Freundlich and Temkin adsorption isotherms, and results revealed that Langmuir isotherm fitted most satisfactorily. On the basis of the obtained maximum adsorption capacity (qmax) from the Langmuir model, the affinity of Cd and Pb for the studied soil was Pb2+ > Cd2+. Pseudo-second order (r2 ≥ 0.995-0.999) best described the kinetics of the sorption process for the metal ions in the soil.
Extraction of Alumina from Nawan Kaolin by Acid Leaching
Authors: Tantawy Mohamed Ahmed , Ali Alomari Abdulaziz
Published: July 2019

This paper investigated the production of alumina from Nawan kaolin by acid leaching with sulfuric and hydrochloric acids. Kaolin was calcined at 850°C and was leached with 6 M acid at 90°C, 5M NaOH followed by HCl solutions were added to the leaching liquor, and the precipitated aluminum hydroxide was converted to alumina by calcination at 900°C. Materials were characterized by FTIR, XRD, and SEM techniques. The alumina extraction percent was determined at different leaching times (30-180 min) and solid/liquid ratios (0.05-0.15 g/ml). The purity of kaolin is about 95%. The percent of extraction of alumina rapidly increases with the solid/liquid ratio up to 0.1 g/ml then decreases thereafter. The percent of extraction of alumina is higher for HCl than H2SO4. The size of the chloride and sulfate ions is the key factor that controls the percent of extraction of alumina from calcined kaolin under the studied conditions.
High Performance of Phenol Adsorption using Iron Based SBA-15 Synthesized by Loading-Microwave Method
Authors: Pertiwi Yuvita Eka , Ulfa Maria
Published: July 2019

The iron based mesoporous silica (Fe2O3/SBA-15) was studied for the first time for adsorption of phenol as a model adsorbate compound. The structural and textural properties of the synthesized samples were characterized by means of X-Ray Diffraction, Transmission Electron Microscopy, FTIR and element analysis techniques by Energy Dispersive X-Ray (EDX). The result of XRD analysis showed that mesoporous SBA-15 silica molecular sieves which modified with Fe2O3has a hexagonal structure with a pore size is 4.90 nm and iron contents (25.27%) were found on the surface of the Fe2O3/mesoporous silica SBA-15. While the FTIR analysis showed that Fe2O3/SBA-15 had functional group of assymetric Si-O-Si and Fe-O-Si which was found at 1085 cm-1 and 678 cm-1, respectively. Adsorption performance of Fe2O3/SBA-15 material investigated by phenol compounds as adsorbate model. The optimum contact time is 60 minutes and the Kinetics model of the mesoporous SBA-15 silica molecular sieves modified Fe2O3 can adsorb phenol compounds following the Kinetics Model Ho and McKay. The result optimum adsorption capacity occuring in the adsorption of phenol compounds by of the mesoporous SBA-15 silica molecular sieves modified Fe2O3 is 114.000 mg/g.
Bacterial Cellulose Based Biocomposite from Guava Fruit Reinforced with Bamboo Microfibrillated Cellulose Through Impregnation Method
Authors: Silviana S. , Susanti Siti
Published: July 2019

Commercial plastics synthesized from fossil oil can significantly affect the environment due to its non-biodegradable property. It is an attempt to minimize the use of the plastics substituted with biodegradable plastics such as biocomposite. Biocomposite matrix can be synthesized from cellulose. A potential cellulose source can be obtained from bacterial cellulose. The bacterial cellulose observed in this study was extracted from guava. Bamboo microfibrillated cellulose was used as reinforcement agent. The objectives of this paper are to obtain optimum condition of bacterial cellulose from guava reinforced with microfibrillated cellulose of bamboo and to identify the characteristics of the biocomposite product such as its mechanical (tensile strength), morphological (SEM), thermal (DSC and TGA) and structural properties (FTIR and TGA). The results show that optimal conditions of the modified biocomposite was achieved at 5%-w/v of bamboo microfibrillated cellulose with tensile strength of 59.81±4.81 MPa. Furthermore, the biocomposite had good thermal stability. It was confirmed by TGA analysis with glass transition temperature of 150°C higher than that of guava bacterial cellulose without the reinforcement of bamboo microfibrillated cellulose, i.e at 110°C.
Cross-border collaborative journalism: New practice, new questions
Authors: Alfter Brigitte , Cândea Stefan
Published: July 2019

This special issue of Journal of Applied Journalism and Media Studies sheds light on the hitherto under-investigated emerging practice of cross-border collaborative journalism. It aims to define it, conceptualize it and hopefully operationalize it. For this purpose, cross-border collaborative journalism practice is defined widely, and contributors come from both academia and journalism practice. This introduction notes the context of the emerging practice, introduces the articles of this special issue and points to further research questions.
Essay: Varieties of cross-border journalism
Authors: Meyer Gitte
Published: July 2019

Europe has a rich heritage of diverse languages, political cultures, enlightenment traditions and, consequently, frameworks of journalism idea(l)s based on different understandings of its tasks, audiences and position in society. As yet, however, the addition of a cross-border dimension to journalism has not resulted in the development of cross-border collaborations along correspondingly diverse lines. The recent rise of journalistic cross-border collaboration seems much indebted to the muckraking tradition of reporting, rooted in the decades when populism was coined as a positive, anti-elitist term in the United States. Targeting corrupt practices, muckrakers have traditionally been committed to exposing liars, frauds, crooks - wrong ones - in politics and business. This is useful to society at large but insufficient if compared to aims of stimulating, across borders, critical public reflection and exchange about international public affairs. Because it may generate self-righteousness in its practitioners and audiences, it might even hamper such practices, dependent as they are on a capacity for self-critical appraisal among participants. What would cross-border collaboration look like if connected to, for instance, the logic of publizist journalism with its affinity for intellectually challenging political debate and its capacity for scrutinizing stereotypes? Why has it not evolved? What might be done to further a diversity of approaches to journalistic cross-border collaboration? Also, might shared attention to the concept of cosmopolitanism be helpful to that purpose?
Diversity matters! How cross-border journalism calls out media bias
Authors: Grzeszyk Tabea
Published: July 2019

This article argues that the dominant tradition of journalism that places the reporter as a mere observer to events, power relations and global hierarchies is unfit as a working model for cross-border collaboration teams. By reversing the perspective of research, it investigates how the ‘neutral‘ position of journalism itself has been shaped by historical context, story-telling traditions, iconic imageries and naturalized assumptions that have influenced its view of the world. With the goal of initiating a knowledge transfer, this article explores key concepts from Cultural Studies and Postcolonial Theory to apply them to contemporary journalism practices.
The Panama Papers investigation and the scope and boundaries of its networked publics: Cross-border journalistic collaboration driving transnationally networked public spheres
Authors: Heft Annett
Published: July 2019

Although journalism has long been considered a profession of lone wolves, its present and future is shaped by collaborative practices of various kinds. The investigation of the Panama Papers by the International Consortium of Investigative Journalists and its more than 100 media partners worldwide is an impressive example of collaborative journalism across media, language and national borders. This article focuses on the impact of such cross-border journalism projects on the transnationalization of public communication in digital media environments. It addresses the question of what kind of ‘networked public sphere’ was created by the revelations of the Panama Papers, exemplified by the communication structures that evolved on the networking platform Twitter. Digital media such as Twitter have the potential to constitute more grounded public spheres than traditional media and to foster interconnections between different publics across national and language barriers. We trace whether or not the transnational collaborative Panama Papers investigation paved the way for a networked public sphere characterized by (1) transnational attention to the issue and (2) transnational interconnections through Twitter users interacting across country and language boundaries and thereby contributing to global public communication.
The microcosm of global investigative journalism: Understanding cross-border connections beyond the ICIJ
Authors: Gearing Amanda , Berglez Peter
Published: July 2019

Investigative journalism across national borders is well known for the large projects, initiated by the International Consortium of Investigative Journalists (ICIJ), with hundreds of reporters in many countries who collaborate to produce coverage such as the Panama Papers. However, there are also many examples in the field of global investigative journalism that are microcosms of their larger counterparts. These smaller or ‘microcosm’ cross-border collaborations are instigated and carried out by a small group of reporters, possibly including freelance reporters. Like their larger counterparts, ‘microcosm investigations’ can also lead to sociopolitical change and thus are deservedly classified as investigative journalism. Microcosm investigations can therefore be viewed as part of a suggested global fourth estate that is calling power to account. The purpose of the article is to examine the characteristics of ‘microcosm’-oriented global investigative journalism and to demonstrate the similarities and differences compared with its larger and more visible counterpart. The empirical material consists of interviews with Australian journalists who were shortlisted as finalists and who won national journalism awards, sponsored by the Walkley Foundation. The findings indicate that new technologies that enable cross-border collaboration are enabling the emergence of a global fourth estate. In the concluding discussion it is argued that for the expansion and mainstreaming of global investigative journalism, the multiple small-scale projects undertaken should collectively be viewed as equally important, if not more important, than the fewer but larger and better-known collaborations. Microcosm collaborations offer opportunities for the proliferation of cross-border media coverage that can be accomplished even by relatively small media outlets.
Skills, careers and cross-cultural understanding: How Russian-American journalism education collaboration works
Authors: Lukina Maria , Demaske Chris
Published: July 2019

This article explores the collaborative exchange programme that both authors have been involved in as the faculty supervisors for more than fifteen years. In this programme students from the US and Russian universities come together to write, design and produce a media project at each other's campuses. From working as an international team, students from both countries practice journalism skills and learn about different cultural and professional traditions, which cannot be reproduced in textbooks or classrooms. In the study, which includes survey responses from 61 former programme participants, the authors measure the success of the programme in two main areas: as a highly impactful study-abroad experience and its ability to foster collaboration and cooperation in journalism education across borders. Based on the responses to the survey, the authors were able to evaluate the long-lasting impact on the students who participate, indicating that during the process they gain not only valuable journalistic skills but also cross-cultural experiences that have a positive impact on their future careers.
The Secret Agent in the Netherlands: Interview with Izabela Pacholec
Authors: Hampson Robert G.
Published: July 2019

2017 was declared ‘The Year of Joseph Conrad’ in Poland, and this led to various events in his honour across Europe. Among these events was the ‘Conrad Project’ in the Netherlands, which culminated in Izabela Pacholec’s radical adaptation of The Secret Agent. Robert Hampson gave a skype lecture at the start of the ‘Conrad Project’ which influenced the adaptation. Hampson here interviews Pacholec about the genesis of the adaptation; what attracted her to The Secret Agent; how The Secret Agent was seen to have contemporary relevance – including, in particular, its concern for ‘the emotional state of the masses’ in the context of Brexit; the historical issue of women’s dependence on men; how the adaptation transferred the novel’s sustained ironic commentary by an embodied narrator to the stage; casting restrictions (and the specific talents of individual performers) and their impact on the adaptation; gender issues, gender changes and pole-dancing.
A quiet subversion: Taiwanese opera tradaptation of the Biblical story of Joseph
Authors: Liu Ya-chun
Published: July 2019

This article examines the tradaptation of the story of Joseph in the Bible into Taiwanese opera staged by the opera troupe Taiwan Gua-a-hi Ban since 2011. Set against the backdrop of the oppression of Taiwanese Opera in Taiwan’s authoritarian era, this case study argues for the subversive implications of such tradaptation. First, it seeks to challenge the victim image borne by the subaltern culture of Taiwan in history. Second, the local adaptors’ effort interestingly manoeuvers the symbolic power from the west, Christianity, to counteract the domination of concrete colonial powers within the continent in Taiwan’s history, i.e. Japan and China, through performing this Taiwanese opera with an intent to ‘empower’ the local Taiwanese community that was historically repressed. Third, the staging of this tradapted work that integrates Christian and non-Christian elements also loosens the religious frames set by mainstream Christian community in Taiwan. This case study, therefore, responds to the existing scholarly discussion on tradaptation through a contemporary Asian example that represents a dynamic negotiation between the dominators and the dominated, the past and the present, the traditional and the modern, and the local and the foreign.
Carl Caulfield: Hecuba Reimagined
Authors: Ewans Michael
Published: July 2019

This article analyses the play Hecuba Reimagined, written by Australian playwright Carl Caulfield and first performed in October 2016. Three previous twenty-first-century English versions of Euripides’ Hecuba are briefly discussed before Caulfield’s adaptation is examined. Caulfield’s modifications to, rejection of, abbreviation and amplification of parts of Euripides’ Hecuba are illustrated, and this section is followed by a detailed analysis of how he expresses the four main themes of his new play: a post-religious world, PTSD, the power of words and the rule of Law. There is a description of how the text was realized in the premiere production before a conclusion that evaluates the play, and summarizes the playwright's approach to adapting Hecuba.
‘But not love [...]’: An interview with Loredana Scaramella about her translation, adaptation and direction of La bisbetica domata (The Taming of the Shrew) at the Silvano Toti Globe Theatre in Rome (2018)
Authors: Pennacchia Maddalena
Published: July 2019

At the heart of one of the historical parks of Rome, Villa Borghese, along one of its silent and shaded paths, a wooden replica of an Elizabethan playhouse rises up: the Silvano Toti Globe Theatre. Maddalena Pennacchia interviews Loredana Scaramella, theatre director, actress and translator-adaptor, who has been staging plays in this Shakespearean performance space since its inception in 2003. The interview is particularly dedicated to her acclaimed production of La bisbetica domata (The Taming of the Shrew) in 2018 which is set in the years immediately preceding the Second World War: a company of Italian actors of the avanspettacolo puts on a play at the inn where a Fascist officer is staying for the night with his squad; the aim is, apparently, that of playing a joke on a drunken tinker with anarchist sympathies who is taught a lesson on how to tame women. Music, dances and songs of the Thirties are added to Shakespeare’s translated text, inducing bursts of laughter mixed with tears, finally leaving the audience with deeper and sadder thoughts on the fragile human condition.
Association between Mannheimia haemolytica infection with reproductive physiology and performance in small ruminants: A review
Authors: Jesse Faez Firdaus Abdullah , Amira Nur Azhar , Isa Kamarulrizal Mat , Maqbool Arsalan , Ali Naveed Mohamad , Chung Eric Lim Teik , Lila Mohd Azmi Mohd
Published: July 2019

Mannheimiosis or pneumonic pasteurellosis commonly occurs in small ruminants. Mannheimiosis is caused by Mannheimia haemolytica (M. haemolytica) a Gram-negative coccobacillus producing acute febrile and infectious condition resulting in death of animal if not diagnosed and treated promptly. M. haemolytica serotype A2 is a commensal of the nasopharynx, gaining access to the lungs when host defenses are compromised by stress or infection in small ruminants. Till date, there is a vast literature and research that has been conducted on the pathogenesis of M. haemolytica invariably on respiratory system and its related immune system and mechanisms. From the clinical point of view, infection or diseases involving vital organs will systemically affect the production and performance of the infected animal. Therefore, there is a huge gap of knowledge and research to answer the question whether there is any association between M. haemolytica infection with reproductive physiology and performance in small ruminants and how it affects the productivity level. This review will explore the possibilities of involvement and new potential research to be carried out to determine the involvement of male and female reproductive system with M. haemolytica infection among small ruminants.
Do political events affect stock return volatility on Indonesian Stock Exchange
Authors: Nurlita Vina , Naomi Prima
Published: July 2019

This study has the purpose to examine the effect of political events on the volatility of stocks traded on the Indonesia Stock Exchange (IDX). Furthermore, this study also sees whether such political events also influence the shares that have direct links with the participants in presidential elections. The political event being examined was the Indonesian Presidential Election held in 2014. The researchers used the daily data on the shares of all companies listed on the Indonesia Stock Exchange (IDX) in 2014. The hypothesis testing were done using the GARCH (Generalized Auto Regressive Conditional Heteroscedasticity) estimation and its derivatives namely EGARCH (Exponential GARCH) and TARCH (Threshold GARCH). It was found that the 2014 Presidential Election asymmetrically affected stock return volatility on IDX and contrary to the leverage effect, which means that positive shocks (good news) have better influence than negative shocks (bad news). Out of all listed companies that have direct links with participants in the presidential election, 3 companies have their stock volatility affected by this Presidential Election; some with symmetric effect and some others with asymmetric effect.
A paradox: employee development and intention to turnover
Authors: Yulianti Praptini , Margaretha Cecilia
Published: July 2019

Employee development program aims to strenghten talents and as a optimal retention program. Development program which is not followed by interesting career development opportunities can be occured turn over intentions. Employability Paradoxs is an employee development program which bringsÂ Â  increasing turn over intentions risk. This paradoxs occurs if employee who gets Â improvement on their competency does not have good career opportunity in organizations. The objectives of this study examines internal and external employability as of mediating the relationship between human resource development with turn over intentions. The relationship between perceived internal and external employability with turn over intentions is moderated by Job autonomy. This study is a quantitative study by distributing questionnaires to 108 employees of beauty services companies in Surabaya. The result of this study is that employee development has no direct effect on turnover intenions, perceived internal and external employability fully mediates employee development related to turn over intentions. Job autonomy strengthen the perceived internal employability relationship with turnover intentions and job autonomy lowered the perceived external employability relationship with the turnover intention.