bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Betydningsindhold for det verbale suffiks -galuar i moderne vestgrønlandsk
Authors: Benhardt Therese Lind
Published: May 2024

In this paper I examine the meaning expressed by the verbal suffix -galuar in modern West Greenlandic, a polysynthetic language with complex word-internal morphology. To examine -galuar, I have analyzed every occurrence of this suffix throughout Niviaq Korneliussen’s novel Naasuliardarpi (2020). On the basis of 364 occurrences in total, I identify the following meanings expressed by -galuar in combinations with other affixes and an array of moods: Epistemic modality (hypothetical scenario), deontic modality (‘should’), boulomaic modality (regret/annoyance), provocation (disbelief), polite inquiry, factual situations in mutualopposition, and finally the meaning ‘in vain’. I find that the scope of -galuar is usually sentential and that in all combinatory constructions -galuar adds the meaning of something unrealized. Therefore, I suggest that -galuar should be regardedas a modal marker of irrealis or potentialis. I then go on to discuss whether the different meanings expressed through uses of -galuar should be categorized as polysemy of -galuar, or if the diversity of possible meanings is instead a symptomof a highly abstract meaning of -galuar. Preferring the latter point of view, I discuss whether -galuar should be regarded as lexical or grammatical in modern West Greenlandic.
Endoscopic Findings of Oozing Gastric Hamartomatous Polyps: A Rare Cause of Upper Gastrointestinal Bleeding
Authors: Taori Kamlesh , Kirnake Vijendra , Daswani Ravi , Padwale Vishal , Acharya Sourya
Published: May 2024

Gastric hamartomatous polyps are infrequent benign lesions of the stomach, typically discovered incidentally during endoscopy. Upper gastrointestinal bleeding (UGIB) is a commonly encountered medical emergency, often caused by peptic ulcers, esophageal varices, or gastritis. However, in some rare instances, the bleeding source may be attributed to gastric hamartomatous polyps. The authors here present a case of a 64-year-old male patient who presented with generalised weakness, dizziness, loss of appetite, and constipation. Laboratory tests revealed microcytic hypochromic anaemia. Stool for occult blood was positive. Initial evaluation, including laboratory tests and imaging studies, was inconclusive for the source of the UGIB. Therefore, endoscopy was performed, which revealed multiple small sessile polyps of approximately 0.5-1cm in the body of the stomach along the greater curvature, which were oozing blood spontaneously. Histopathological examination of the polyps revealed their hamartomatous nature. The patient was diagnosed as a case of chronic constipation with microcytic hypochromic anaemia with hamartomatous gastric polyp. The bleeding was successfully controlled through endotherapy with endoscopic injection of epinephrine (1:10,000) injected at the site of the ooze. Due to the rarity of this condition, the diagnosis was challenging and required a high index of suspicion. Physicians should consider this entity in the differential diagnosis of UGIB. This case highlights the importance of considering hamartomatous polyps as a potential source of UGIB and demonstrates the efficacy of endoscopic treatment for both diagnosis and management. Awareness of this rare entity can aid in prompt recognition and appropriate therapeutic interventions to prevent potential life-threatening complications.
Evaluation of Preventive Effect of Zinc Lozenge on Sore Throat after Placement of ProSeal Laryngeal Mask Airway: A Randomised Controlled Study
Authors: Jaiswal Rajmala , Aggarwal Priyanka , . Deepika , Chhikara Monica , Katewa Manoj , Yano Teyiesito
Published: May 2024

Introduction: Postoperative Sore Throat (POST) is a known complication after general anaesthesia with an endotracheal tube (14.4% to 50%) and less so with Supraglottic Airway (SGA) devices (5.8% to 34%). Various modalities and drugs can decrease POST. Zinc possesses anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties and is utilised in oral mucositis and xerostomia. Aim: To evaluate the effect of preoperative administration of a zinc lozenge on POST after the removal of the Proseal Laryngeal Mask Airway (PLMA). Materials and Methods: In this randomised, double-blinded controlled study was conducted at the Department of Anaesthesia at Pt. BD Sharma PGIMS, Rohtak, Haryana, India, over a period of five months from August 2020 to December 2020. 100 patients aged 18-60 years of either sex belonging to American Association of Anesthesiologists (ASA) I and II undergoing elective surgery under general anaesthesia with PLMA placement were randomly allocated into two groups to receive a 40 mg zinc lozenge (Group-I) or placebo (Group-II) and were asked to chew it 30 minutes preoperatively. Patients with upper respiratory tract infections, at risk of aspiration, or with anticipated difficult intubation were excluded from the study. The incidence and severity of POST were assessed on a 4-point scale (0-3) at 30 minutes, 2, 4, and 24 hours postoperatively. The primary outcome of the study was the incidence of POST at four hours postoperatively, and the secondary outcome was the severity of POST at 30 minutes, two hours, and 24 hours postoperatively. Statistical analysis was conducted using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 20.0 (IBM SPSS Statistics Inc., Chicago, Illinois, USA) Windows software programme. The Chi-square test and unpaired t-test were used for statistical analysis. Results: The mean age in Group-I was 38.6±12.32 years and in Group-II was 37.90±14.84 years (p-value 0.79). Data regarding the distribution of patients according to sex were comparable with a p-value of 0.31. There was a significantly lower incidence of POST in Group-I (zinc group) than in Group-II (placebo group) at four hours with a p-value of 0.004. Conclusion: The present study has shown that the preoperative administration of a 40 mg zinc lozenge effectively reduces the incidence and severity of POST in the postoperative period, peaking at four hours after general anaesthesia. Zinc lozenges are easy, convenient, non invasive, and successfully prevent POST.
Effect of Proprioceptive Neuromuscular Facilitation Technique on Balance in Stroke Patients: A Narrative Review
Authors: Kalita Siva Sankar , Sarma BC , Hazarika Simi , Dutta Abhijit
Published: May 2024

Stroke, or Cerebrovascular Accident (CVA), is a condition that impairs the brain by rupturing blood vessels or by obstructing blood arteries with blood clots, causing a significant deterioration in the patient’s functioning and worsening their Quality Of Life (QOL). Stroke patients are prone to falls and fall-related complications after a stroke, which are associated with balance disorders leading to activity limitations, increased dependency, affecting social and community participation, QOL, longer treatment duration, and slow prognosis. Balance disorders and fall risks after a stroke hinder stroke rehabilitation, so it is essential to improve balance for better results in stroke rehabilitation. Over the last decade, the Proprioceptive Neuromuscular Facilitation (PNF) technique has shown potential for improving balance in stroke patients. A systematic literature search was conducted, and the findings were critically reviewed and thematically analysed.
Effectiveness of T-Scan Technology in Identifying Occlusal Interferences and its Role in the Management of Temporomandibular Disorders: A Systematic Review
Authors: Uchale Pooja , Deogade Suryakant , Khalikar Arun , Wankhade Sattyam , Taneja Sukrit , Lalsare Samiksha
Published: May 2024

Introduction: Occlusion is a significant issue that affects the masticatory system’s health. Temporomandibular Disorders (TMD) have long been linked to occlusal interferences. Identification and management of such disorders using a T-scanguided approach have been gaining popularity; however, the effectiveness is still not established. Aim: To evaluate the effect of T-scan on the reduction of Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) scores of pain and improvement in the symptoms associated with TMD. The benefits of reducing Disocclusion Time (DT) were also evaluated. Materials and Methods: The Medical Literature Analysis and Retrieval System Online (MEDLINE) database via PubMed and Excerpta Medica Database (EMBASE) were searched for studies reporting the use of T-scan in Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) disorders to check the DT and patient-related outcomes. The search was performed from January 1991 to November 2022. A total of 10 studies were included in the systematic review, which includes clinical studies, observational studies, and interventional studies. Data extraction was performed, and risk of bias assessment was done using the Newcastle-Ottawa scale (NOS) for non randomised studies, and the Cochrane tool was utilised for randomised clinical trials. A qualitative analysis of all the studies was carried out. Results: The T-scan-guided occlusal correction or equilibration procedures led to improvement in subjective symptoms and VAS in TMD patients. Reduction in DT positively affected muscle activity, causing relief of chronic symptoms. Conclusion: As per the findings of the present review, T-scan technology can be successfully used in the precise identification and diagnosis of occlusal discrepancies in patients suffering from myofascial symptoms.
Effectiveness of Lymph Node Revealing Solution in Estimation of Lymph Nodes Yield in Radical Specimen of Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma: A Preliminary Histomorphometric Observational Study
Authors: Dharini S , Pandiar Deepak , Krishnan Reshma Poothakulath
Published: May 2024

Introduction: Oral cancer poses a serious health challenge globally, particularly for nations undergoing economic transition. The number and size of lymph nodes obtained, along with nodal involvements, are crucial for proper diagnosis, treatment, and prognosis. Aim: To assess the number of lymph nodes obtained before and after treating the specimens with the Lymph Node Revealing Solution (LNRS) along with staining characteristics. Materials and Methods: The present prospective observational study was conducted at the Department of Oral Pathology and Microbiology, Saveetha Dental College and Hospitals, Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India, over a period of six months from January 2023 to June 2023 in a tertiary oral healthcare centre in Chennai. Six histologically confirmed Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma (OSCC) cases with neck dissection were included in the study, involving 32 lymph node levels. Lymph nodes were grossed using both routine procedures of palpation and visualisation and after treatment with LNRS for two days. The number of nodes obtained through both methods was compared along with the staining characteristics. The data were analysed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) software version 26.0. Chi-square and paired t-tests were used to compare the two groups, and any value less than or equal to 0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results: Out of 134 lymph nodes, 21 were positive with conventional fixation, whereas after the application of LNRS, an additional 41 lymph nodes were retrieved. Two nodes showed metastatic deposits; fortunately, the additional positive nodes did not affect the staging. No statistically significant difference was found before and after immersion in LNRS regarding staining characteristics. The mean area of the yielded nodes was 84.71±4.85 mm2 . There was a statistically significant difference between the size of lymph nodes between the manual grossing method and after immersion in LNRS (p-value <0.001). Conclusion: The study confirmed that the LNRS technique identified very small lymph nodes in oral cancer patients, which may contain metastatic deposits. This might change the stage of the disease and influence the mode of treatment.
Health Sciences Students’ Knowledge, Attitudes, and Awareness of the Effects of Sleep Quality on the Brain: A Cross-sectional Study
Authors: Alharthi Rana , Alamri Rawan , Alqarni Wafa , Khan Muhammad Anwar , Kumar Raju Suresh
Published: May 2024

Introduction: Sleep is a fundamental necessity for the human body, particularly for ensuring optimal brain function, and health science students are predisposed to experiencing lower-quality sleep than the general population. Aim: To assess the knowledge, attitudes, and awareness of health science students regarding the influence of sleep quality on the brain. Materials and Methods: This descriptive cross-sectional study included male and female students from diverse Colleges at King Saud bin Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, encompassing the College of Science and Health Professions, College of Medicine, College of Applied Medical Sciences, and College of Nursing. The study spanned one year, commencing in September 2022 and concluding in September 2023. It included 361 participants who completed a self-administered validated questionnaire. Participants were chosen through non probability consecutive sampling, and the questionnaire covered demographic characteristics, attitudes towards sleep quality, awareness of its importance, and knowledge of its impact on the brain. Data analysis encompassed descriptive statistics and inferential tests, including the Independent t-test, and Chi-square test with a significance level of p-value <0.05. Results: Female students exhibited a higher likelihood of disagreeing (p-value=0.006) with the notion that sleep quality does not impact memory conversion compared to males. Additionally, a significant number of female students (p-value=0.009) acknowledged the correlation between anxiety and insomnia, which was not as prevalent among males. Among the participants, 66.8% were females, and 33.2% were males. Common presleep behaviours included avoiding tea/coffee (76.5%) and using smartphones before bedtime (90.6%). While awareness of sleep quality’s influence on memory recall was high (72.0%), comprehension of its connection with seizures in epilepsy was relatively lower. Conclusion: This study underscores the significance of assessing attitudes, knowledge, and awareness regarding sleep quality among health science students. Notable gender variations were observed, with females demonstrating greater awareness of sleep’s impacts on memory and insomnia related to anxiety. Consequently, sleep education initiatives and fostering healthy sleep habits among students in health science disciplines are essential.
Haemoprotective Effects of Dry Ginger Powder (Zingiber officinale) on Wistar Rats Fed with Iron Treated Water
Authors: Patrick Aniekwensi Obinna , Peter Atiba Kehinde , Okore Nnamdi Kingsley , Wahab Yusuf Adekola , Oladapo Olajumoke Bisola , Alawode Mercy Oluwalani , Ahmed Nurain Kehinde
Published: May 2024

This study aimed to investigate the effect of increased iron concentration in water and the potential protective efficacy of ginger (Zingiber officinale Roscoe) against hematological disturbances. A cohort of 24 Wistar rats, aged 6-8 weeks before dosage with an average weight of 100-120g and of both genders, was divided into four groups and treated for four weeks.  The experimental rats were grouped into four groups, each comprising six animals.
 Group A (-ve control) received 8.75mg of ferrous sulphate containing 2.8mg of Iron in one liter of distilled water.
Group B (+ve control) received 2% of dry ginger powder mixed with basal diet.
Group C received a combination of 2% dry ginger powder in basal diet + 2.8mg iron in one liter of distilled water.
Group D (normal control) received an un-supplemented diet with distilled water.
The study monitored the Heamatology profile (complete blood count), such as the packed cell volume (PCV), Haemoglobin(Hb), white blood cell (WBC) count, mean cell volume (MCV), Red blood cells (RBC), Mean cell haemoglobin concentration (MCHC) and platelets (PLT) in the serum and change in body weight following the administration of various treatment which includes ginger powder, Iron, distilled water and combination therapy of both ginger powder and Iron supplement. All the data collected were subjected to statistical analyses. Results were expressed as mean ±SD. Post-hoc tests and one-way ANOVA were used to compare the results.
Hence, the administration of dry ginger powder suggests that its polyphenolic compound, specifically 6-gingerol, may enhance iron absorption in humans, mitigate iron deficiency anemia, and provide protection against iron-induced oxidative damage in various tissues. Iron supplementation improves hematological parameters and prevents morbidity and mortality.
The research findings indicate that the chemoprotective effects of ginger and Iron, when administered to Wistar rats, showed no significant alternation in the hematological parameters; thus, ginger administration is not significant if the p-value is> 0.05.
Models of Inter-Moult Period for Antarctic Krill - Lack of Progress and Promulgation of Unreliable Models Calibrated Using Indirect Observations
Authors: Candy Steven G.
Published: May 2024

Aims: Two methods of calibrating regression models of inter-moult period (IMP) as a function of temperature exposure (T) for crustaceans, in particular, Antarctic krill (Euphausia superba) are reviewed in terms of both theoretical and empirical properties in order to make recommendations on the application of the methods and/or the use of the resultant fitted models.
Methodology: The method and fitted model that used a meta-analysis of published results from laboratory-reared krill using means of directly observed IMP for a range of controlled, constant temperature regimes has valid theoretical and empirical support. The alternative used moult frequencies obtained as a “byproduct” of 5-d Instantaneous Growth Rate (IGR) experiments carried out at sea for which individual IMPs were not directly observed. Instead mean IMP given T and animal total length (L) was predicted using the moult frequencies disaggregated to binary data of moulted versus not-moulted as dependent variable in the calibration of a logistic regression on T and L. The shape of the daily development rate, R, the inverse of IMP, versus T response curve fitted using direct observations is a classical monotonically increasing curve whereas for combinations of sex/maturity classes the curves fitted using indirect observations are parabola-like with sexually dimorphic concavities of either up or down. Four sources of bias in predictions of mean IMP using the indirect observations and estimation method are described. One source due to an unrepresentative sampling frame can lead to large positive bias in estimated mean IMP based on theory which has been absent until now and that applies a discrete uniform distribution for next moult date corresponding to ideal asynchrony. This bias and that due to IGR experimental measurement error in T cannot be remedied.
Conclusion: The indirect method and the corresponding fitted models are unreliable and should not be used.
Managing Change: Considerations for Effective Human Resource Interventions, the Case of CSIR-Forestry Research Institute of Ghana
Authors: Marfo Georgia Coffie , Antwi James
Published: May 2024

Aim: The study examined the potential roles of Human Resources (HR) in ensuring efficient change management in a Ghanaian research organization, the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR). The study was premised on the assumption that employees, when well engaged through HR activities, can be better informed and understand the need for change during any change management process.
Methodology: The study tested the assumption using a quantitative research design of survey questionnaire among 64 employees and a review of institutional documents at the CSIR - Forestry Research Institute of Ghana (CSIR-FORIG). The responses were analysed using statistical means.
Findings: The findings show that HR functions, such as; communication, training, and monitoring of performance that make the Human Resource Manager a change agent are challenged at the CSIR-FORIG, especially in the communication role. While the level of understanding of change appears not to depend on the category of employee, the expectations and commitment of employees seem to be associated with the category of employee.  Four predictor variables of change management were found not to have been adequately met due to factors such as lack of feedback mechanism in the communication strategy limiting full understanding of the change process.
Conclusions: The study concludes that change management implementation at the CSIR-FORIG did not yield the needed outcome and this could partly be attributed to HR role which was not adequately incorporated in the implementation strategy. Therefore, policy and practice implications on any change management process need to recognize the role of HR and incorporate HR professionals in the change management strategy.
Optimizing Local Area Network Performance: Insight from Riverbed Modelling
Authors: J Kalu , J.N Nwauzor , K.O Suleman , M. E Igbo , N. E Igbo
Published: May 2024

Designing and deploying an efficient and cost effective network that will satisfy end users requires a careful consideration of the different network devices that are available and selecting network parameters that will guarantee optimum performance. In this study, Riverbed modeling software was used to simulate and study the effects of varying different network parameters and devices on the performance of a local area network (LAN). Starting off with the designated Simple Network and Busy Network, the network parameters were varied for other scenarios to investigate the effects of network background utilization, link type, as well as the number of servers. Results from the simulation show that for a local area network, the web server demonstrated the highest CPU utilization. While increasing the background utilization of the network increased the remote server access time, FTP get download time, and HTTP request page response time, replacing the three servers with a single server did not have any significant impact on the CPU utilization. Further results from the simulation show that using cables enhanced the data transmission rate, and rather than deploying multiple servers, effective selection and distribution of network services can be used to achieve optimum network performance using a single server. This is achieved by striking a balance between frequently utilized network services and non-frequently utilized network services.
Bacillus spp. – A Potential Probiotic
Authors: K V Vandana , Harinivenugopal . , C S Shashi Kumar , L Malashree , B G Shilpashree , B Ramachandra
Published: May 2024

Aim: To determine the probiotic characteristics for selected Bacillus spp.
Study Design: The study was aimed for evaluating the in vitro probiotic properties such as acid and bile tolerance, adhesion ability and antibacterial activity of four strains of Bacillus spp. such as Bacillus cereus, Bacillus subtilis, Bacillus tropicus and Bacillus licheniformis.
Place and Duration of Study: Department of Dairy Microbiology, Dairy Science College, Hebbal, Bengaluru, Karnataka, India, study conducted between June 2023 to April 2024.
Methodology: Probiotic nature was evaluated by determining the percentage survivability of four strains of Bacillus spp. at pH 2.0 and 0.3 % ox bile concentration. Percentage adhesion was determined using xylene hydrocarbon and antibacterial activity of four Bacillus spp. against test organisms like Escherichia coli, Salmonella spp. and Staphylococcus aureus was tested using agar well diffusion method.
Results: In this present study four strains of Bacillus spp. that is B. cereus, B. subtilis, B. tropicus and B. licheniformis exhibited good probiotic characteristics such as acid, bile tolerance, adhesion ability and antibacterial activity against test organisms. Among all the strains B. subtilis have exhibited highest survival rate of 88.01 and 74.86 % at pH 2.0 and 0.3% ox bile concentration respectively, whereas B. tropicus showed 14.5% adhesion ability to xylene hydrocarbon. Regarding antibacterial activity B. subtilis exhibited highest inhibitory zone of 7.1, 6.2 and 4.0 mm against E. coli, Salmonella spp. and Stap. aureus respectively.
Conclusion: In conclusion, the results of present study suggested that B. subtilis showed good in vitro probiotic characteristics.
Relação do risco político no custo de capital nos laudos de avaliação das sociedades anônimas brasileiras: evidências para FDI e F&A
Authors: Caríssimo Cláudio Roberto , Stefaniak Aveline Carlos Eduardo , De Ávila Ednilson Sebastião , Carvalho Francisval de Melo
Published: May 2024

Esse artigo avalia a relação do risco político do país sobre as taxas de desconto apuradas nos laudos de avaliação das sociedades anônimas divulgados pela CVM (Comissão de Valores Mobiliários). A motivação do estudo se firmou no processo de internacionalização de empresas e uma de suas estratégias é por meio de F&A (Fusões e Aquisições). Justifica-se essa abordagem em função de que avaliações superestimadas podem contribuir para equívocos na tomada de decisão de investimento, assim como na evidenciação dos retornos esperados como também no processo de compra como um todo. Para avaliar essa relação foi utilizada uma regressão linear múltipla por MQO, tendo por base os dados obtidos a partir dos laudos de avaliação das empresas disponibilizados no site da CVM. Fizeram parte da amostra todas as empresas que tiveram os seus laudos divulgados no período de 2014 a maio de 2019, totalizando 35 empresas, resultantes de 35 laudos de avaliação. Os resultados apontaram que o risco político e a inflação têm influência positiva na determinação do WACC. A contribuição e implicações deste artigo, estão na avaliação da taxa de desconto, considerando o risco político e relacionando-o com índices externos divulgados pelo Banco Mundial por meio do  Worldwide Governance Indicators (WGI). O modelo relacionou e validou a relação deste índice internacional com as taxas de desconto utilizadas nos laudos de avaliação, denotando a influência desta variável na construção deste indicador.
Lithium–Ion Batteries:
L
i–6
MAS NMR
Studies on Materials
Authors: Cabana Jordi , Grey Clare P.
Published: January 2011

Lithium ion batteries have been pivotal in the development of mobile electronic devices such as laptops and mobile phones, and are now poised to make a significant impact in transportation applications, for example, in hybrid and plug‐in hybrid electric vehicles, and in applications on the electric grid. The push to develop new batteries for these diverse applications has lead to a wealth of new electrode chemistries. Yet, issues such as safety, cycle life, capacity, and power remain the specific concerns, depending very strongly on the chemistries and materials used as electrode materials in the different batteries. Thus, in order for these materials to be used in practical devices and to develop insight into how these materials function, we need to understand not only the structures of the as‐synthesized materials but also how they change during the cycling of the lithium ion battery. To this end, nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy has played an important role in characterizing the local structures and dynamics of these materials. This review article provides a summary of some of the more recent applications of this methodology in this field. We focus on the use of NMR to study both positive and negative electrode materials, and show how this technique has helped understand the origins of the performance of a given material. The analysis of electrode materials, reacting via more traditional intercalation reactions, is covered in the first half of the article, whereas the second part is devoted to newer chemistries and reaction mechanisms, which offer the prospect of much needed improvements in energy density of Lithium ion batteries.
Hydrogen Production from Water: Photocatalysis
Authors: Arachchige Shamindri M. , Brewer Karen J.
Published: January 2011

Photocatalytic hydrogen production from water provides an attractive but challenging approach to meeting our global energy needs. Design and development of systems that utilize visible light to drive the energetically favorable, multielectron reduction of water to produce hydrogen fuel have been of long‐term interest. Addressing the challenges of efficient harvesting of solar energy to produce transportable fuels requires ongoing, sustained research in this field. Current technologies utilize photobiological methods, photoelectrochemical methods, and molecular photocatalysis. This article focuses on the recent progress of proton or water reduction using supramolecular photocatalysts. These photochemical molecular devices often couple charge‐transfer light absorbers (LAs) to reactive metals in complex molecular architectures. Linking multiple components into large molecular assemblies allows for applications requiring complex functions. Early successes in supramolecular photocatalysts for solar hydrogen production are summarized. The redox, excited state properties, and photochemical properties of supramolecular systems applicable in photocatalytic hydrogen production are presented. Fundamental studies of the perturbations of subunit properties upon incorporation into supramolecular arrays are paramount to their successful application in this forum. Optical excitation typically affords a metal‐to‐ligand charge‐transfer state that is quenched by electron transfer, providing reduced complexes with reactive metals able to deliver the electrons to substrates. Sacrificial electron donors provide coupling to oxidative chemistry, allowing independent study of photocatalysts and hydrogen production schemes. Supramolecular chemistry allows modulation of redox, photophysical, and photochemical properties by component modification. Coupling multiple LAs to an electron acceptor, which, when reduced by multiple electrons, provides photoinitiated electron collectors (ECs). Photoinitiated ECs, which collect multiple electrons on a reactive rhodium center with the supramolecular architecture remaining, reduce water to hydrogen fuel. Mixed‐valence systems that promote HX reduction to produce hydrogen have also been described. Coupling of charge‐transfer LAs to cobalt, iron, palladium, or platinum is a topic of recent interest in the design of water reduction photocatalysts. The general design considerations for the development of supramolecular assemblies that function as photocatalysts for proton reduction are discussed, providing valuable insight into engineering efficient solar hydrogen production catalysts for water reduction. Mechanistic studies remain important to understanding this complex multielectron photochemistry, which will aid in future molecular design. Much remains to be mastered in this complicated, multielectron photochemistry but recently there is increased awareness and interest in this field.
Photosynthesis, Artificial: Progress in Swedish Consortium
Authors: Ott Sascha , Styring Stenbjörn , Hammarström Leif , Johansson Olof
Published: January 2011

Mimicking energy conversion processes in nature using molecular systems is a promising approach for future solar fuel production. The Swedish Consortium for Artificial Photosynthesis is involved in the design, preparation and functional study of many of the key components needed for a homogeneous approach to artificial photosynthesis, building on principles from photosystem II (PSII) and [FeFe] hydrogenases. Ruthenium(II) polypyridyl complexes have played an important role as photosensitizers. Several strategies have been developed for their preparation, and a novel approach to improve the photophysical properties of bistridentate complexes involving six‐membered chelates for more octahedral coordination was recently introduced. The [Ru(dqp)
2
]
2+
complexes (dqp is 2,6‐di(quinolin‐8‐yl)pyridine) combine the desired structural properties for easy access to linear donor–acceptor assemblies, while maintaining microsecond luminescent lifetimes of their
3
MLCT (metal‐to‐ligand charge transfer) excited states. The synthesis of these chromophores is now well established, and the recent realization of donor–photosensitizer–acceptor assemblies shows that photoproduced charge‐separated states can be formed in high yields (ϕ ≥ 95%). Beyond such single‐photon/single‐electron events, charge accumulation at potential catalytic sites is crucial for multielectron redox reactions. Covalently linked Ru
II
Mn

x

(
x
 = 1,2) complexes as PSII mimics have been investigated to understand chromophore–quencher (Mn quenchers) interactions, to promote desired electron transfer processes, and suppress undesired competing reactions. The Mn units often have large inner reorganization energies upon oxidation or reduction, which make them unusually slow electron donors and/or acceptors in photoinduced charge‐separation schemes. Charge accumulation and water splitting, however, require the management of
both
protons and electrons, which controls the electron transfer processes by proton‐coupled electron transfer (PCET). Studies on Ru
II
Tyr complexes incorporating pendant bases led to an understanding of the effect of hydrogen‐bonding on electron transfer rates. In analogy to the electron donor side, bioinorganic models of the [FeFe] H
2
ase active site are targeted for the electron acceptor side, with the ultimate goal to realize molecular catalysts that produce H
2
at similar high rates and low overpotential as the enzymes. Certain ligand sets create basic sites around the Fe centers that are protonated in the presence of acid and are thus models of late intermediates in the enzymatic catalytic cycle. Furthermore, synthetic Fe
2
complexes catalyze the electrochemical reduction of protons. In combination with a photosensitizer, they can also be used in photochemical schemes and are currently used to produce H
2
photochemically, with turnover rates up to 200.
Water Splitting: Thermochemical
Authors: T‐Raissi Ali
Published: January 2011

Hydrogen can be produced by direct or single‐step splitting of water. The Gibbs free energy change for direct thermochemical water splitting is zero at about 4300 K at 1 bar. However, in practice, direct thermochemical splitting of water poses challenging high‐temperature materials and product separation issues, among others. One way to lower the extremely high temperatures required for direct splitting of water and mitigate gas separation issues is the use of multistep cycles. To date, more than 350 thermochemical cycles for splitting water has been conceived. Of these, fewer than two dozen cycles still remain subject to further research and development. Among them are several “sulfur family” cycles as well as a number of volatile and nonvolatile metal oxide cycles. All of these cycles consist of at least two process steps, and some are hybrid cycles requiring both heat and work (e.g., electricity) input. This article presents a brief review of the status of multistep thermochemical water‐splitting cycles (TCWSCs) for the production of hydrogen.
Photo–Initiated Electron–Transfer at the Interface between AnataseTiO2Nanocrystallites and Transition–Metal Polypyridyl Compounds: Recent Advances
Authors: Ardo Shane , Meyer Gerald J.
Published: January 2011

Molecular control of solar light harvesting and interfacial charge transfer at mesoporous, nanocrystalline semiconductor thin films are described. Light absorption by transition‐metal coordination compounds anchored to wide band‐gap semiconductors can initiate electron‐transfer processes that ultimately reduce the semiconductor and oxidize the coordination compound. Such photo‐induced charge separation is a key step for solar energy conversion. Three different interfacial charge‐separation mechanisms are discussed in addition to regeneration processes wherein a mobile donor donates an electron to the oxidized coordination compound. Inorganic chemistry plays a central role in this approach to solar energy conversion, which may ultimately be optimized for practical applications.
Injection Molding
Authors: Bozzelli John W. , Sepe Mike
Published: January 2011

Injection molding is an extensive global manufacturing process for making simple to intricate plastic, ceramic, and metal parts. Injection molding converts wax, thermoplastics and thermosets as well as powdered metals, and magnesium into thousands of products. Commercial processes and equipment have been developed for a wide variety of materials, though the bulk of what is injection molded are thermoplastics. Applications appear limitless, from compact disks to jet plane canopies, to medical implants. Nearly all consumer products have some injection‐molded components. In the year 2009, it is estimated that 530 billion pounds of resin were sold worldwide.
Solubility of Polymers
Authors: Eckelt Anja , Eckelt John , Wolf Bernhard
Published: January 2011

Detailed knowledge concerning the phase state (homogeneous or coexistence of two or more condensed phases) of polymer containing mixtures is indispensible in virtually any area related to the production or application of macromolecules. In addition to this qualitative information it is for many purposes highly desirable to dispose of quantitative data regarding solvent quality or, more generally, with respect to the thermodynamic interaction between the components of the mixtures. This contribution starts with a brief presentation of the thermodynamic criteria deciding on the phase state and presents the experimental methods used in this area. The next section gives an overview on typical behaviors of polymer solutions and polymer blends; it is followed by a part recalling widely used theoretical approaches. Finally, a data section collects solvents and non‐solvents for a large number of polymers and presents some examples for the quantitative thermodynamic description of polymer solutions.
Ferroelectric Liquid Crystalline Elastomers
Authors: Brehmer Martin , Zentel Rudolf
Published: January 2011

Ferroelectric liquid crystalline elastomers are representing an interesting class of material as they combine the ordering of liquid crystalline ferroelectric phases together with the rubber elasticity of polymer networks. A switching of the electric polarization leads to a deformation of the polymer network, equivalent to the stretching of a spring, and creates a stress in the network of polymer chains. The interaction of mesogens and network can be varied by using different topologies of netpoints: A cross‐linking is either carried out within the siloxane sublayers (leading to fast switching elastomers) or between the siloxane sublayers (resulting in an elastomer that favors the ferroelectric switching state in which the cross‐linking reaction took place). As the orientation of the smectic phase couples to the polymer network, electromechanical measurements show a piezoelectric effect. A mechanical deformation leads to a polarization or an external electric field to a deformation of the sample. Applying the electric field parallel to the smectic layer structure leads to an extremely high electrostrictive strain of 4% at an electric field of only 1.5 MV/m.
Conductive Polymer Composites
Authors: Zhang Rongwei , Agar Josh C. , Wong C. P.
Published: January 2011

Insulating polymer materials can be made electronically conductive through the incorporation of electrically conductive fillers. These composite materials are called electrically conductive polymer composites. This article reviews a special class of conductive polymer composites—isotropically conductive adhesives (ICAs). We summarize recent advances in ICA technologies and its application as a lead‐free alternative to metal solders. We discuss how the properties of ICA can be engineered for electronic packaging in terms of material properties, conductive mechanisms, bulk conductivity, adhesion, reliability, and cost. We conclude with a discussion of commercial processes for ICA use in consumer electronics.
Cement Additives
Authors: Birchall J. D.
Published: January 2011

Organic polymeric materials are used to improve the mechanical properties and durability of products (especially concrete) based usually, but not exclusively, on portland cement. Compressive strength is enhanced and resistance to aggressive environments, such as freeze‐thaw cycles or seawater, is greatly improved. The polymeric materials form an integral part of the cement or concrete structure. Techniques, properties, and products are reviewed.
Queues and Networks
Authors: Böhm Walter
Published: January 2011

Queueing theory of today is a highly developed discipline, although deeply rooted in probability theory, it has a strong interdisciplinary flavour and the wide range of applications make it a really interesting and challenging field. This article is meant to provide a gentle introduction into the subject and to give the reader an impression of these challenges and of the vast fields where queueing theory proved to be a successful method to understand and to analyze waiting lines and their dynamics. Our discussion starts with a first glimpse on interesting examples ranging from every‐day situations like waiting lines in supermarkets, road traffic, manufacturing and cellular mobile systems up to rather particular issues in the management of intensive care units in hospitals. Since many of the problems sketched in these examples may be studied within the framework of birth‐death processes we give a short introduction into the analysis of such processes and also show how this simple methodology can be extended to analyze more sophisticated questions arising in networks of queues. Our efforts to generalize ideas and methods will lead us to classical and celebrated results like the Pollaczek‐Khintchin mean value formula and we will also have occasion to look briefly at approximation and simulation techniques, indispensable tools of modern queueing theory.
Ranking and Selection Among Mutual Funds
Authors: Vinod H. D.
Published: January 2011

This chapter is concerned with implications of statistical methods for practical problems in Finance for millions of common people. After some introductory discussion of Financial terms we compare professional stock pickers with random choices. While probability distributions of portfolio returns,f(r), are important, they may be influenced by fundamental variables including momentum in prices, profitability of underlying business and many such criteria. We discuss statistical underpinnings of combinatorial fusion analysis (CFA) used by computer scientists for combining ‘ranks and scores’ associated with various criteria in our context. We evaluate which f(r) enjoys ‘stochastic dominance’ in a set of investment opportunities and show how to use ‘decision weights’ on dominating f(r) to individualize our evaluations allowing asymmetric attitudes towards losses versus gains.
The Black–Scholes Formula and Its Applications in Finance
Authors: Kijima Masaaki , Muromachi Yukio
Published: January 2011

This chapter overviews a continuous‐time model for securities market and its applications in finance. Self‐financing and replicating portfolios play key roles for the pricing of derivative securities. The Black–Scholes model is explained in detail, and valuation of exotic options, interest‐rate derivatives, corporate bonds and real options is also discussed as applications of the Black–Scholes model.
Intermolecular Hydrogen Abstraction Reaction between Nitrogen Radicals in Purine Rings and Alkyl Ethers: A Highly Selective Method for the Synthesis of N‐9 Alkylated Purine Nucleoside Derivatives
Authors: Guo Hai‐Ming , Xia Chao , Niu Hong‐Ying , Zhang Xiao‐Ting , Kong Si‐Nan , Wang Dong‐Chao , Qu Gui‐Rong
Published: January 2011

A highly selective method for the synthesis of N‐9 alkylated purine nucleoside derivatives via an intermolecular hydrogen abstraction reaction between nitrogen radicals in purine rings and alkyl ethers was developed. Novel purine nucleoside derivatives were obtained with good to high yields in the presence of (diacetoxyiodo)benzene (DIB) and iodine in one‐step reaction.
Hydroperoxidation of Tertiary Alkylaromatics Catalyzed By N‐Hydroxyphthalimide and Aldehydes under Mild Conditions
Authors: Melone Lucio , Gambarotti Cristian , Prosperini Simona , Pastori Nadia , Recupero Francesco , Punta Carlo
Published: January 2011

A metal‐free catalytic system consisting of an aldehyde and N‐hydroxyphthalimide (NHPI) for the selective oxidation of tertiary alkylaromatics with molecular oxygen has been developed. Cumene was oxidized efficiently to the corresponding hydroperoxide under mild conditions. The molecule‐induced homolysis between peracids generated in situ and NHPI ensured the formation of the phthalimide N‐oxyl (PINO) radical even at room temperature. Investigations on aldehyde, solvent and temperature effects allowed us to achieve good conversions with high selectivity in hydroperoxide. The optimized procedure was successfully extended to phenylcyclohexane, a valuable alternative for the production of phenol. The mechanism is discussed in detail.
Detecting social learning using networks: a users guide
Authors: Hoppitt William , Laland Kevin N.
Published: January 2011

Controversy over claims of cultures in nonhuman primates and other animals has led to a call for quantitative methods that are able to infer social learning from freely interacting groups of animals. Network‐based diffusion analysis (NBDA) is such a method that infers social transmission of a behavioral trait when the pattern of acquisition follows the social network. As, relative to other animals, primates may be unusual in their heavy reliance on social learning, with learning frequently directed along pathways of association; in this study, we draw attention to the significance of this method for primatologists. We provide a “users guide” to NBDA methodology, discussing the choice of NBDA model and social network, and suggest model selection procedures. We also present the results of simulations that suggest that NBDA works well even when the assumptions of the underlying model are violated. Am. J. Primatol. 73:834–844, 2011. © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Safety and efficacy of an oral histone deacetylase inhibitor in systemic‐onset juvenile idiopathic arthritis
Authors: Vojinovic Jelena , Damjanov Nemanja , D'Urzo Carmine , Furlan Antonio , Susic Gordana , Pasic Srdjan , Iagaru Nicola , Stefan Mariana , Dinarello Charles A.
Published: January 2011

Objective

The current treatment options for systemic‐onset juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) are methotrexate, steroids, and biologic agents. This study was undertaken to evaluate the safety of the orally active histone deacetylase inhibitor givinostat (ITF2357) and its ability to affect the disease.

Methods

Givinostat was administered orally, for up to 12 weeks at a dosage of 1.5 mg/kg/day, to 17 patients with systemic‐onset JIA who had had active disease for ≥1 month. Disease activity was clinically assessed using the American College of Rheumatology Pediatric 30 (ACR Pedi 30), ACR Pedi 50, or ACR Pedi 70 criteria for improvement and a systemic feature score. The primary goal was safety and the primary efficacy end point was the number of patients completing 12 weeks of treatment who were responders.

Results

Givinostat was safe and well tolerated, with adverse events (AEs) being mild or moderate, of short duration, and self‐limited. The 17 patients from the intent‐to‐treat population reported a total of 44 AEs, and the 9 patients in the per‐protocol population reported a total of 25. Six AEs in 3 patients (nausea, vomiting, and fatigue) were related to the study drug, but each resolved spontaneously and no patient was withdrawn from the study due to drug‐related AEs. In the per‐protocol population at week 4, the improvement as measured by the ACR Pedi 30, ACR Pedi 50, and ACR Pedi 70, respectively, was 77.8%, 55.6%, and 22.2%, and this increased further to 77.8%, 77.8%, and 66.7% at week 12. The most consistent finding was the reduction in the number of joints with active disease or with limited range of motion.

Conclusion

After 12 weeks, givinostat exhibited significant therapeutic benefit in patients with systemic‐onset JIA, particularly with regard to the arthritic component of the disease, and showed an excellent safety profile.