bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Investigation of the polymerization mechanism of ferrocene doped C60 under high pressure and high temperature
Authors: Sun Shishuai , Cui Wen , Wang Shuangming , Liu Bingbing
Published: September 2017

In situ high pressure and high temperature (HPHT) study has been carried out on C60/ferrocene (Fc) in order to detect the process of polymerization and reveal the polymerization mechanism. Pristine C60 was also studied under same conditions for comparison. In both cases, similar types of polymers can be observed after pressure and temperature release, but with different fractions, i.e. a larger amount of 2D polymers were formed in pure C60, while more branch-like polymers were synthesized in C60/Fc, although the most fraction of the polymers is still 1D chain-like polymer in both of the materials. The polymers formed in C60 can be detected both during the “up” run (pressure and temperature increase) and the “down” run (pressure and temperature decrease), while in C60/Fc, the polymers can only be synthesized in the “down” run. The differences between the two cases were attributed to the different initial lattice structures of the two materials and the confinement effect of the dopant. The polymerization mechanism on C60/Fc under HPHT was also revealed in this work.
The mechanical and photoelastic properties of 3D printable stress-visualized materials
Authors: Wang Li , Ju Yang , Xie Heping , Ma Guowei , Mao Lingtao , He Kexin
Published: September 2017

Three-dimensional (3D) printing technology integrating frozen stress techniques has created a novel way to directly represent and characterize 3D interior discontinuities and the full-field stress induced by mining- or construction-related disturbances of deeply buried rock masses. However, concerns have been raised about the similitude between the mechanical behaviours of the printed model and its prototype rock mass. Ensuring the mechanical properties of the printable materials are as close as possible to those of real rock mass is of critical significance. In this work, a transparent, light, photosensitive polymer material was investigated for applications in frozen stress tests. The chemical composition of the material was determined by integrating the results of infrared spectroscopy (IR spectroscopy), X-ray diffraction (XRD), pyrolysis, gas chromatography and mass spectrometry (PY-GC/MS). Measures to improve the mechanical properties of the printable material, including printing orientation, post-processing, and temperature control, were evaluated by comparing the treated material with its prototype rock. The optical stress sensitivity of the material, including stress-visualized properties and stress-frozen performance, was also tested. This study offers an understanding of how printable materials should be modified to better simulate real rock masses, in terms of not only their geological geometry but also their mechanical performance.
Mild traumatic brain injury induces memory deficits with alteration of gene expression profile
Authors: Luo Yawen , Zou Haiyan , Wu Yili , Cai Fang , Zhang Si , Song Weihong
Published: September 2017

Repeated mild traumatic brain injury (rmTBI), the most common type of traumatic brain injuries, can result in neurological dysfunction and cognitive deficits. However, the molecular mechanisms and the long-term consequence of rmTBI remain elusive. In this study, we developed a modified rmTBI mouse model and found that rmTBI-induced transient neurological deficits and persistent impairments of spatial memory function. Furthermore, rmTBI mice had long-lasting detrimental effect on cognitive function, exhibiting memory deficits even 12 weeks after rmTBI. Microarray analysis of whole genome gene expression showed that rmTBI significantly altered the expression level of 87 genes which are involved in apoptosis, stress response, metabolism, and synaptic plasticity. The results indicate the potential mechanism underlying rmTBI-induced acute neurological deficits and its chronic effect on memory impairments. This study suggests that long-term monitoring and interventions for rmTBI individuals are essential for memory function recovery and reducing the risk of developing neurodegenerative diseases.
Electrokinetically driven continuous-flow enrichment of colloidal particles by Joule heating induced temperature gradient focusing in a convergent-divergent microfluidic structure
Authors: Zhao Cunlu , Ge Zhengwei , Song Yongxin , Yang Chun
Published: September 2017

Enrichment of colloidal particles in continuous flow has not only numerous applications but also poses a great challenge in controlling physical forces that are required for achieving particle enrichment. Here, we for the first time experimentally demonstrate the electrokinetically-driven continuous-flow enrichment of colloidal particles with Joule heating induced temperature gradient focusing (TGF) in a microfluidic convergent-divergent structure. We consider four mechanisms of particle transport, i.e., advection due to electroosmosis, electrophoresis, dielectrophoresis and, and further clarify their roles in the particle enrichment. It is experimentally determined and numerically verified that the particle thermophoresis plays dominant roles in enrichment of all particle sizes considered in this study and the combined effect of electroosmosis-induced advection and electrophoresis is mainly to transport particles to the zone of enrichment. Specifically, the enrichment of particles is achieved with combined DC and AC voltages rather than a sole DC or AC voltage. A numerical model is formulated with consideration of the abovementioned four mechanisms, and the model can rationalize the experimental observations. Particularly, our analysis of numerical and experimental results indicates that thermophoresis which is usually an overlooked mechanism of material transport is crucial for the successful electrokinetic enrichment of particles with Joule heating induced TGF.
A clinical investigation treating different types of fibroids identified by MRI-T2WI imaging with ultrasound guided high intensity focused ultrasound
Authors: Zhao Wen-Peng , Zhang Jing , Han Zhi-Yu , Yao Jin-Peng , Zhou Xiang , Liang Ping
Published: September 2017

Clinical data from 172 cases of uterine fibroids with different appearances on MRI-T2WI and accepted ultrasound guided high intensity focused ultrasound (USgHIFU) treatment were retrospectively analyzed. This study aimed to evaluate the clinical safety and efficacy of ablating different types of fibroids, classified by T2-weighted magnetic resonance imaging (MRI-T2WI). Based on MRI-T2WI signal intensities, uterine fibroids were classified as three types: hypointensive (52 cases), isointensive (64 cases) and hyperintensive (56 cases). Evaluation parameters including treatment time, ablation efficiency, percentage non-perfused volume, fibroid reduction rate, adverse reactions, symptom severity scores (SSS) and re-intervention rate were assessed from 3 months to 1 year. The percentage non-perfused volume and ablation efficiency of hyperintensive uterine fibroids were lower than those of isointensive and hypointensive uterine fibroids. All fibroids shrunk and the SSS continued to reduce at 3 and 6 months after treatment respectively. At 12-month postoperative assessments, hypointensive fibroids continued to shrink, while the isointensive fibroids enlarged but remained smaller than pre-treatment. The incident rate of postoperative Society of Interventional Radiology B-class (SIRB-class) adverse events showed no significant differences. The re-interventional rate of hyperintensive fibroids was higher than in isointensive and hypointensive groups. USgHIFU ablation of all types of fibroids were safe and effective.
The presence of acquired enamel pellicle changes acid-induced erosion from dissolution to a softening process
Authors: Mutahar Mahdi , Carpenter Guy , Bartlett David , German Matthew , Moazzez Rebecca
Published: September 2017

Erosive wear undermines the structural properties of enamel resulting in irreversible enamel loss. A thin protein layer formed from natural saliva on tooth surfaces, acquired enamel pellicle (AEP), protects against erosive wear. The exact components in saliva responsible for such protection are not yet known. We prepared three solutions containing different components: proteins and ions [natural saliva (NS)], minerals with no proteins [artificial saliva (AS)] and neither proteins nor ions [deionised water (DW)]. To assess the protection of the three solutions against citric acid enamel erosion, enamel specimens were immersed in the corresponding solution for 24 h. All specimens were then exposed to five erosion cycles, each consisted of a further 30 min immersion in the same solution followed by 10-min erosion. Mean step height using a non-contacting profilometer, mean surface microhardness (SMH) using Knoop microhardness tester (final SMH), and roughness and 2D profiles using atomic force microscopy were measured after five cycles. The final SMH values were compared to the starting values (after 24 hr). NS group had significantly less tissue loss but greater SMH change (P < 0.0001) than AS and DW groups. Specimens in NS were softer and rougher (P < 0.001) but less eroded than specimens in AS and DW.
Influence of mesopore size and peptide aggregation on the adsorption and release of a model antimicrobial peptide onto/from mesoporous silica nanoparticles in vitro
Authors: Braun Katharina , Pochert Alexander , Gerber Marlena , Raber Heinz Fabian , Lindén Mika
Published: September 2017

The interplay between mesopore size and degree of peptide aggregation controls both calcitonin adsorption onto and release from mesoporous silica nanoparticles.
A hydrogen sulfide probe activates Nrf2, inhibits cancer cell growth and induces cell apoptosis
Authors: Gao YuanDi , Ma HanLin , Qu GuoJing , Su Le , Ye Qing , Jiang Fan , Zhao BaoXiang , Miao JunYing
Published: September 2017

Application of a probe for hydrogen sulfide, HF-NBD.
Synergistic effects of zwitterionic segments and a silane coupling agent on zwitterionic shape memory polyurethanes
Authors: Ge Zaochuan , Ren Huanhuan , Fu Shuqin , Chen Shaojun
Published: September 2017

A novel strategy to improve shape memory properties of ZSMPUs by using a silane coupling agent. The synergistic effects of zwitterionic segments and silane coupling agents on the structure, morphology, properties were carefully investigated.
Synthesis, properties and gas separation performance of poly(arylene ether sulfone) containing imide pendant groups
Authors: Yu Yunwu , Wang Yan , Li Tianwei , Liang Wenfeng , Li Chun , Niu Wanyang , Gao Lili
Published: September 2017

Three kinds of pendant imide group were introduced into poly(arylene ether sulfone) via an imidization approach.
A facile microwave-assisted approach to the synthesis of flower-like ZnCo2O4 anode materials for Li-ion batteries
Authors: Shih Guang-Hao , Liu Wei-Ren
Published: September 2017

A simple and rapid microwave-assisted hydrothermal (MH) method is used to synthesize spinel-based ZnCo2O4 anode material for Li-ion batteries.
Degradation of aquatic sulfadiazine by Fe0/persulfate: kinetics, mechanisms, and degradation pathway
Authors: Yang Shidong , Che Di
Published: September 2017

Degradative mechanisms of aquatic sulfadiazine by Fe0/persulfate.
Hierarchical nitrogen-doped porous carbon derived from lecithin for high-performance supercapacitors
Authors: Demir Muslum , Saraswat Sushil Kumar , Gupta Ram B.
Published: September 2017

The development of renewable carbon sources for sustainable energy storage applications is of significance importance.
Highly efficient MOF-based self-propelled micromotors for water purification
Authors: Wang Ruiqin , Guo Weilin , Li Xianghui , Liu Zhonghua , Liu Hua , Ding Shiyang
Published: September 2017

Self-propelled metal–organic framework (MOF)-based Janus micromotors that propel autonomously in hydrogen peroxide and display effective remediation of contaminated water is presented in this work.
High-performance anionic waterborne polyurethane/Ag nanocomposites with excellent antibacterial property via in situ synthesis of Ag nanoparticles
Authors: Zhong Zhen , Luo Shun , Yang Kai , Wu Xiaojian , Ren Tianbin
Published: September 2017

High-performance anionic waterborne polyurethane/Ag nanocomposites synthesizedvia in situreduction.
Cucurbit[7]uril complexations of Good's buffers
Authors: Selinger Allison J. , Macartney Donal H.
Published: September 2017

Cucurbit[7]uril forms host–guest complexes with “Good's” and related biological pH buffers of varying stability in aqueous solution.
Hierarchical mesoporous SnO2 nanosheets on carbon cloth toward enhancing the polysulfides redox for lithium–sulfur batteries
Authors: Wang Maoxu , Fan Lishuang , Wu Xian , Tian Da , Cheng Junhan , Qiu Yue , Wu Hexian , Guan Bin , Zhang Naiqing , Sun Kening , Wang Yan
Published: September 2017

Lithium–sulfur (Li–S) batteries have been acknowledged as outstanding substitutes for energy storage systems due to their superiority in energy density.
High performance asymmetric capacitive mixing with oppositely charged carbon electrodes for energy production from salinity differences
Authors: Zhan Fei , Wang Gang , Wu Tingting , Dong Qiang , Meng Yulan , Wang Jianren , Yang Juan , Li Shaofeng , Qiu Jieshan
Published: September 2017

Asymmetric capacitive mixing (Asy-CapMix) for extracting salinity gradient energy is realized by using oppositely charged carbon electrodes. High performance in terms of voltage rise and average power density is achieved.
Unusual, broad red emission of novel Ce3+-activated Sr3Sc4O9 phosphors under visible-light excitation
Authors: Hasegawa Takuya , Kim Sun Woog , Ueda Tadaharu , Ishigaki Tadashi , Uematsu Kazuyoshi , Takaba Hiromitsu , Toda Kenji , Sato Mineo
Published: September 2017

A novel red emitting, Ce3+-activated Sr3Sc4O9 phosphor were discovered, and its luminescent properties were investigated.
Low-voltage-driven organic phototransistors based on a solution-processed organic semiconductor channel and high k hybrid gate dielectric
Authors: Jiang Bo-Yi , Vegiraju Sureshraju , Chiang Anthony Shiaw-Tseh , Chen Ming-Chou , Liu Cheng-Liang
Published: September 2017

Low-voltage-driven organic phototransistors integrate the photodetector and photomemory functions within one single device to precisely sense the brightness and carry out multilevel memory operations.
Effects of Lexical Variables on Silent Reading Comprehension in Individuals With Aphasia: Evidence From Eye Tracking
Authors: DeDe Gayle
Published: September 2017

Purpose

Previous eye-tracking research has suggested that individuals with aphasia (IWA) do not assign syntactic structure on their first pass through a sentence during silent reading comprehension. The purpose of the present study was to investigate the time course with which lexical variables affect silent reading comprehension in IWA. Three lexical variables were investigated: word frequency, word class, and word length.

Methods

IWA and control participants without brain damage participated in the experiment. Participants read sentences while a camera tracked their eye movements.

Results

IWA showed effects of word class, word length, and word frequency that were similar to or greater than those observed in controls.

Conclusions

IWA showed sensitivity to lexical variables on the first pass through the sentence. The results are consistent with the view that IWA focus on lexical access on their first pass through a sentence and then work to build syntactic structure on subsequent passes. In addition, IWA showed very long rereading times and low skipping rates overall, which may contribute to some of the group differences in reading comprehension.
Design, analysis and performance of a bidirectional solar inverter with a global and independent maximum power extraction technique
Authors: Junior Cláudio J.O. , Pires Lucas P. , Freitas Luiz C. , Coelho Ernane A.A. , Lima Gustavo B. , Freitas Luiz C.G.
Published: September 2017

This study presents the development, design and performance analysis of a multistring bidirectional solar inverter connected to the grid (BSICG). An algorithm for the independent global maximum power tracking was both developed and implemented, which produced a system immune to non‐uniform irradiation conditions with the aim of applying such on DC (direct current) microgrids connected to a conventional AC (alternating current) grid on the BSICG, which is characterised by bidirectional power flow management. The main advantage of this proposal is thus highlighted as the stabilisation of the voltage on the DC bus even when confronted with irradiance intermittencies from photovoltaic solar energy. All theories are presented and corroborated through experimental results obtained from a 2.0 kW prototype.
Overcoming switching limits in silicon power MOSFETs with silicon‐based solutions
Authors: Roig Jaume , Bauwens Filip
Published: September 2017

This work presents a review of new concepts and trends to push silicon power MOSFETs beyond their switching boundaries. The multiple issues encountered when increasing switching power loss and slew rate are thoroughly explained. Afterwards, a large variety of solutions are proposed in silicon technologies, all of them being experimentally proven and elucidated by physics‐based simulations. Among these solutions, co‐integrated snubbers, induced avalanche operation, local charge balance, tapered trenches, and cascoded configuration are suggested for low‐ and high‐voltage power MOSFETs.
Self‐tuning fuzzy‐PI‐based current control algorithm for doubly fed induction generator
Authors: Demirbas Sevki
Published: September 2017

This study presents a fuzzy‐proportional–integral (PI) controller having self‐tuning property for current control of doubly fed induction generator (DFIG). Two fuzzy‐PI‐based controllers: first one is used for controlling rotor current of DFIG, whereas the other come up with optimal output‐scaling factor for the former are employed to carry out the algorithm. The proposed controller is robust with different operating conditions and parameter changes because of having adaptive feature. The performance of the control algorithm both transient and steady‐state conditions are tested with several experiments performed various operating points. The results achieved from both simulation and experimental tests verify that the implemented method is superior to steady‐state and transient response at all operations as exhibits robustness to wind speed and parameter variations.
Percutaneous Embolization of Scalp Arteriovenous Malformation Using New Liquid Embolic Agent, SQUID: A Technical Report
Authors: Kannath Santhosh , Rajan Jayadevan
Published: September 2017

Scalp arteriovenous malformations (AVMs) are rare extracranial vascular malformations that are traditionally treated by surgical excision or by combined endovascular-surgical approaches. We describe percutaneous treatment of scalp AVM, using a new liquid embolic agent, SQUID. Because of its nonadhesive property, prolonged injection and complete obliteration of scalp AVM is feasible. The cast formed is aesthetically appealing to the patient, and it may obviate the need for further surgical excision. It could be considered as the primary treatment option for patients unwilling for surgery.
Clinical Significance of Pulmonary Arteriovenous Malformation Reperfusion
Authors: Kaufman Claire , Henderson Katharine , Pollak Jeffrey
Published: September 2017

The purpose of this study was to assess the clinical significance of reperfused pulmonary arteriovenous malformations (rPAVM) after embolization. This study is a retrospective review of all patients from a single HHT center who underwent pulmonary arteriovenous malformation (PAVM) embolization between January 1, 2006 and December 30, 2007. Clinical history, imaging findings (including reperfusion), and symptoms seen in the setting of PAVMs were reviewed both at the time of embolization and during the subsequent follow-up through December 30, 2013. During the 2-year treatment period, 101 patients underwent PAVM embolization. During the initial embolization, 27 patients were found to have reperfusion of a previously embolized PAVM. During the follow-up period, none of these patients had recurrence of the rPAVM. Three patients who underwent an embolization procedure for the first time at the initial procedure were subsequently found to have rPAVM during the follow-up period. This resulted in a total of 30 patients with rPAVMs. Eighteen (60%) of the 30 patients were found to be symptomatic at the time of presentation with rPAVM. However, 14 had at least one other significant PAVM at the time of diagnosis of reperfusion. Only two symptomatic patients had only rPAVM, both with mild manifestations. Two patients were excluded from the study as their symptoms were attributed to other medical comorbidities. The majority of symptomatic patients with rPAVM had additional PAVMs that required embolization. Neither of the symptomatic patients with an isolated rPAVM had severe manifestations.
Bundestagswahl 2017 – Segel setzen für Ihre Zukunft
Authors: Oldenburg Elke
Published: September 2017

Die Wahlprogramme sind verabschiedet, und der Wahlkampf ist in vollem Gange. Die künftige Regierung wird die Zukunft der Ergotherapeuten maßgeblich prägen – für die Therapieberufe stehen wichtige Entscheidungen an. ergopraxis bat die Parteien, hierzu Position zu beziehen, und erläutert die Hintergründe.
Wiebke Harms – Empfehlung für ein Kompetenzprofil
Authors: Veit Katrin
Published: September 2017

In ihrer Bachelorarbeit analysierte Wiebke Harms internationale Kompetenzprofile für Ergotherapeuten. Um der immer komplexer werdenden Profession auch in Deutschland gerecht zu werden, spricht sich die Ergotherapeutin auch hierzulande mit konkreten Empfehlungen für ein Kompetenzprofil aus.
Nervenkompressionssyndrome – Wenn Nerven nerven
Authors: Paries Cornelia , Zander Andrea
Published: September 2017

Radfahrer, Liebespaare, Musiker – ein Kompressionssyndrom kann jeden treffen. Denn in Arm und Hand verlaufen wichtige Nerven auf engstem Raum. Werden sie komprimiert, können nachhaltige Nervenschäden entstehen. Mit Teil 1 unseres Refreshers frischen Sie Ihr anatomisches Wissen auf.
Empagliflozin reduziert das Risiko für Mortalität sowie makro- und mikrovaskuläre Komplikationen bei Patienten mit Typ-2-Diabetes und bestehender kardiovaskulärer Erkrankung
Authors: Seufert Jochen , Galle Jan-Christoph , Manning Martina , Schmid Volkmar , Lehrke Michael
Published: September 2017

Patienten mit Typ-2-Diabetes mellitus haben auch bei optimierter Lipidsenkung, Blutdruckkontrolle und Blutzuckereinstellung ein erhöhtes Risiko für kardiovaskuläre Ereignisse. Zur Abbildung der kardiovaskulären Sicherheit neu zugelassener Antidiabetika verlangen die Arzneimittelbehörden FDA und EMA den Nachweis für Nichtunterlegenheit bezüglich kardiovaskulärer Sicherheit gegenüber Placebo in Endpunktstudien. Während für verschiedene neuere Antidiabetika bisher die Nichtunterlegenheit in kardiovaskulären Sicherheitsstudien gezeigt wurde, konnte mit Empagliflozin erstmals in der EMPA-REG OUTCOME®-Studie und nachfolgend mit Liraglutid in der LEADER-Studie eine präspezifizierte kardiovaskuläre Überlegenheit im Vergleich zu Placebo demonstriert werden; auch mit Semaglutid wurde in der SUSTAIN-6-Studie eine statistisch signifikante Reduktion kardiovaskulärer Ereignisse erreicht. Die Gabe von Empagliflozin, einem Hemmer des Natrium-Glukose-Cotransporters 2 (SGLT-2), zusätzlich zur antidiabetischen und kardiovaskulären Standardtherapie führte zu einer signifikanten relativen Risikoreduktion des primären kombinierten Endpunkts aus kardiovaskulärem Tod, nicht tödlichem Myokardinfarkt oder nicht tödlichem Schlaganfall um 14 % gegenüber Placebo. Diese Risikoreduktion wurde maßgeblich durch die Senkung der kardiovaskulären Mortalität um 38 % erreicht. Zudem zeigten sich gegenüber Placebo relative Risikoreduktionen von 35 % bzw. 39 % für stationäre Aufnahmen wegen Herzinsuffizienz bzw. für das Neuauftreten oder die Verschlechterung einer Nephropathie. Empagliflozin reduzierte die Gesamtmortalität relativ um 32 %. Welche Mechanismen den nachgewiesenen Risikoreduktionen zugrunde liegen, ist Gegenstand weiterer Untersuchungen. Diskutiert werden vor allem eine Entlastung des Herzens durch Ausscheidung von überschüssigem Natrium, Glukose und Wasser, hämodynamische Effekte an der Niere über eine Normalisierung des tubulo-glomerulären Feedbacks oder auch eine durch Ketonkörper energetisch günstigere Substratnutzung im vorgeschädigten Herzen. Empagliflozin war, mit Ausnahme einer erhöhten Rate an Genitalinfektionen, die generell mit dem Wirkmechanismus von SGLT-2-Hemmern assoziiert sind, gut verträglich.
Schienenversorgung bei juveniler idiopathischer Arthritis – Schienen im Alltag nutzen
Authors: Krauß Theresa , Meyer Patricia
Published: September 2017

Die meisten Kinder und Jugendlichen mit JIA setzen ihre Hilfsmittel ungern im Alltag ein. Doch nur durch den konsequenten Einsatz lassen sich Folgeschäden minimieren. Das zu fördern ist Sache der Ergotherapie.
Soft x-ray absorption spectroscopy of metalloproteins and high-valent metal-complexes at room temperature using free-electron lasers
Authors: Kubin Markus , Kern Jan , Gul Sheraz , Kroll Thomas , Chatterjee Ruchira , Löchel Heike , Fuller Franklin D. , Sierra Raymond G. , Quevedo Wilson , Weniger Christian , Rehanek Jens , Firsov Anatoly , Laksmono Hartawan , Weninger Clemens , Alonso-Mori Roberto , Nordlund Dennis L. , Lassalle-Kaiser Benedikt , Glownia James M. , Krzywinski Jacek , Moeller Stefan , Turner Joshua J. , Minitti Michael P. , Dakovski Georgi L. , Koroidov Sergey , Kawde Anurag , Kanady Jacob S. , Tsui Emily Y. , Suseno Sandy , Han Zhiji , Hill Ethan , Taguchi Taketo , Borovik Andrew S. , Agapie Theodor , Messinger Johannes , Erko Alexei , Föhlisch Alexander , Bergmann Uwe , Mitzner Rolf , Yachandra Vittal K. , Yano Junko , Wernet Philippe
Published: September 2017

X-ray absorption spectroscopy at the L-edge of 3d transition metals provides unique information on the local metal charge and spin states by directly probing 3d-derived molecular orbitals through 2p-3d transitions. However, this soft x-ray technique has been rarely used at synchrotron facilities for mechanistic studies of metalloenzymes due to the difficulties of x-ray-induced sample damage and strong background signals from light elements that can dominate the low metal signal. Here, we combine femtosecond soft x-ray pulses from a free-electron laser with a novel x-ray fluorescence-yield spectrometer to overcome these difficulties. We present L-edge absorption spectra of inorganic high-valent Mn complexes (Mn ∼ 6–15 mmol/l) with no visible effects of radiation damage. We also present the first L-edge absorption spectra of the oxygen evolving complex (Mn4CaO5) in Photosystem II (Mn < 1 mmol/l) at room temperature, measured under similar conditions. Our approach opens new ways to study metalloenzymes under functional conditions.
Extending the large bubble entrapment regime and modelling the mechanics
Authors: Cockbill Louisa
Published: September 2017

Researchers have used numerical simulations of large bubble entrapment to establish its boundaries and underlying mechanism.
The carbon nanotube integrated circuit goes three-dimensional
Authors: Wilson R. Mark
Published: September 2017

Chip makers have a mantra: smaller, cheaper, and faster. They may now need a new adjective—taller.
Climate change in the Arctic accelerates
Authors: Kramer David
Published: September 2017

Improved models, new icebreakers, and more observations are needed to gauge global effects of the polar region’s diminishing ice cover.
Climate change research cut as Canada focuses on mitigation
Authors: Feder Toni
Published: September 2017

Barring a reversal, government–academia research networks will lapse and facilities in the high Arctic will shut down.
Wickless heat pipes in microgravity
Authors: Plawsky Joel L. , Nguyen Thao
Published: September 2017

Counterintuitive phenomena arise from the interfacial and surface forces that operate in heat pipes. But we had to eliminate gravity to see them.
A multi-method study of health behaviours and perceived concerns of sexual minority females in Mumbai, India
Authors: Bowling Jessamyn , Dodge Brian , Banik Swagata , Bartelt Elizabeth , Rawat Shruta , Guerra-Reyes Lucia , Hensel Devon , Herbenick Debby , Anand Vivek
Published: September 2017

Background: This multi-method study explores the perceived health status and health behaviours of sexual minority (i.e. self-identifying with a sexual identity label other than heterosexual) females (i.e. those assigned female at birth who may or may not identify as women) in Mumbai, India, a population whose health has been generally absent in scientific literature. Methods: Using community-based participatory research approaches, this study is a partnership with The Humsafar Trust (HST). HST is India’s oldest and largest LGBT-advocacy organisation. An online survey targeted towards sexual minority females was conducted (n = 49), with questions about sexual identity, perceived health and wellbeing, physical and mental healthcare access and experiences, and health behaviours (including substance use). Additionally, photo-elicitation interviews in which participants’ photos prompt interview discussion were conducted with 18 sexual minority females. Results: Sexual minority females face obstacles in health care, mostly related to acceptability and quality of care. Their use of preventative health screenings is low. Perceived mental health and experiences with care were less positive than that for physical health. Participants in photo-elicitation interviews described bodyweight issues and caretaking of family members in relation to physical health. Substance use functioned as both a protective and a risk factor for their health. Conclusion: Our findings point to a need for more resources for sexual minority females. Education on screening guidelines and screening access for sexual minority females would also assist these individuals in increasing their rates of preventative health.
Postexercise Hypotension After Aquatic Exercise in Older Women With Hypertension: A Randomized Crossover Clinical Trial
Authors: Cunha Raphael M , Costa Andressa Moura , Silva Christoffer Novais F , Póvoa Thais Inácio R , Pescatello Linda S , Lehnen Alexandre Machado
Published: September 2017

BACKGROUND

Hypertension can be prevented and modified with lifestyle interventions that include regular exercise. Aquatic exercise is widely recommended for older adults for a variety of health benefits, but few studies have assessed the immediate ambulatory blood pressure (BP) response to aquatic exercise, a response termed postexercise hypotension (PEH). Thus, we assessed PEH after a session of aquatic exercise in physically active, older women with hypertension.

METHODS

Twenty-four women 70.0 ± 3.9 years with a resting systolic (SBP)/diastolic (DBP) BP of 124.0/72.3 mm Hg and body mass index of 29.8 ± 4.1 kg/m2 were randomly assigned to participate in a 45-minute session of moderate intensity, water-based exercise (WATER) and a 45-minute land control session (CONTROL). All experimental sessions started at 9 am sharply with 7 days between them. Subjects left the experiments wearing an ambulatory BP monitor for the next 21 hours.

RESULTS

SBP was lower by 5.1 ± 1.0 mm Hg after WATER than CONTROL over 21 hours (P < 0.001), over awake hours by 5.7 ± 1.1 mm Hg (P < 0.001), and sleep hours by 4.5 ± 0.4 mm Hg (P = 0.004). DBP was lower following WATER compared to CONTROL: 1.2 ± 0.3 mm Hg over 21 hours (P = 0.043); 0.9 ± 0.6 mm Hg over awake hours (P = 0.101); and 1.4 ± 0.9 mm Hg over sleep hours (P = 0.039).

CONCLUSIONS

Aquatic exercise elicited PEH (~5 mm Hg) over 21 hours, BP reductions that are comparable in magnitude to land aerobic exercise. The immediate antihypertensive benefits of acute aquatic exercise should continue to be explored in future studies.
1. Political Research
Authors: Halperin Sandra , Heath Oliver
Published: September 2017

This text provides readers with the analytic skills and resources they need to evaluate research findings in political research, as well as the practical skills for conducting their own independent inquiry. It shows that empirical research and normative research are not independent of each other and explains the distinction between positivism and interpretivism, and between quantitative and qualitative research. Part 1 of this edition discusses key issues in the philosophy of social science, while Part 2 presents a ‘nuts and bolts’ or ‘how to’ guide to research design, such as how to find and formulate a research question. Part 3 evaluates different methods of data collection and analysis that can be used to answer research questions, along with the variety of considerations and decisions that researchers must confront when using different methods.
4. Asking Questions
Authors: Halperin Sandra , Heath Oliver
Published: September 2017

This chapter deals with the first step of the research process: the formulation of a well-crafted research question. It explains why political research should begin with a research question and how a research question structures the research process. It discusses the difference between a topic or general question, on the one hand, and a focused research question, on the other. It also considers the question of where to find and how to formulate research questions, the various types of questions scholars ask, and the role of the ‘literature review’ as a source and rationale for research questions. Finally, it describes a tool called the ‘research vase’ that provides a visualization of the research process, along with different types of questions: descriptive question, explanatory question, predictive question, prescriptive question and normative question.
6. Research Design
Authors: Halperin Sandra , Heath Oliver
Published: September 2017

This chapter focuses on the basic principles of research design. It first considers different types of research design, including experimental designs, cross-sectional and longitudinal designs, comparative designs, and historical research designs. It also discusses two types of research validity: internal validity and external validity. The chapter proceeds by describing various methods of data collection and the sort of data or evidence each provides, including questionnaires and surveys, interviewing and focus groups, ethnographic research, and discourse/content analysis. Finally, it examines six issues that must be taken into account to ensure ethical research: voluntary participation, informed consent, privacy, harm, exploitation, and consequences for future research.
9. Comparative Research
Authors: Halperin Sandra , Heath Oliver
Published: September 2017

This chapter explores the principles of comparative research design as well as the issues and problems associated with different aspects of the approach. In particular, it considers the issue of case selection, the common sources of error that are associated with comparative research, and what can be done to try and avoid or minimize them. The comparative method is one of the most commonly used methods in political research and is often employed to investigate various political phenomena, including democratization, civil war, and public policy. The chapter discusses the three main forms of comparison, namely case study, small-N comparison, and large-N comparison. It also describes two main approaches used to select cases for small-N studies: Most Similar Systems Design and Most Different Systems Design. It also evaluates qualitative comparative analysis and concludes with an analysis of issues arising from case selection and data collection in large-N comparative research.
11. Surveys
Authors: Halperin Sandra , Heath Oliver
Published: September 2017

This chapter discusses the principles of survey research as well as the issues and problems associated with different stages of the research design process. In particular, it examines questionnaire design, sample design, and interviewing techniques, along with the common sources of error that affect survey research and what can be done to try and avoid or minimize them. Although surveys have several weaknesses, they are widely used in political research to investigate a wide range of political phenomena. They combine two things: obtaining information from people by asking questions and random sampling. When done well, surveys provide an accurate and reliable insight into what ordinary people think about politics and how they participate in politics. The chapter considers the elements of a survey that need to be addressed, namely: questionnaire design, measurement error, sampling design, sampling error, and interview mode.
12. Interviewing and Focus Groups
Authors: Halperin Sandra , Heath Oliver
Published: September 2017

This chapter considers different types and forms of interviewing, including focus groups, and how they should be conducted. Interviews are a popular method of data collection in political research. They share similarities with surveys, but these similarities relate mostly to structured interviews. The chapter focuses on semi-structured interviews, including focus groups, the emphasis of which is to get the interviewee to open up and discuss something of relevance to the research question. After describing the different types and forms of interview, the chapter explains how interview data can be used to confirm or disconfirm a hypothesis or argument. It also shows how to plan and carry out an interview and how the type and wording of questions, as well as the order in which they are asked, affect the responses you get. Finally, it examines the interviewing skills that will ensure a more successful outcome to an interview.
15. Quantitative Analysis
Authors: Halperin Sandra , Heath Oliver
Published: September 2017

This chapter deals with quantitative analysis, and especially description and inference. It introduces the reader to the principles of quantitative research and offers a step-by-step guide on how to use and interpret a range of commonly used techniques. The first part of the chapter considers the building blocks of quantitative analysis, with particular emphasis on different ways of summarizing data, both graphically and with tables, and ways of describing the distribution of one variable using univariate statistics. Two important measures are discussed: the mean and the standard deviation. After elaborating on descriptive statistics, the chapter explores inferential statistics and explains how to make generalizations. It also presents the concept of confidence intervals, more commonly known as the margin of error, and measures of central tendency.
16. Patterns of Association
Authors: Halperin Sandra , Heath Oliver
Published: September 2017

This chapter discusses the principles of bivariate analysis as a tool for helping researchers get to know their data and identify patterns of association between two variables. Bivariate analysis offers a way of establishing whether or not there is a relationship between two variables, a dependent variable and an independent variable. With bivariate analysis, theoretical expectations can be compared against evidence from the real world to see if the theory is supported by what is observed. The chapter examines the pattern of association between dependent and independent variables, with particular emphasis on hypothesis testing and significance tests. It discusses ordinary least squares (OLS) regression and cross-tabulation, two of the most widely used statistical analysis techniques in political research. Finally, it explains how to state the null hypothesis, calculate the chi square, and establishing the correlation between the dependent and independent variables.
17. A Guide to Multivariate Analysis
Authors: Halperin Sandra , Heath Oliver
Published: September 2017

This chapter extends the principles of bivariate analysis to multivariate analysis, which takes into account more than one independent variable and the dependent variable. With multivariate analysis, it is possible to investigate the impact of multiple factors on a dependent variable of interest, and to compare the explanatory power of rival hypotheses. Multivariate analysis can also be used to develop and test multi-causal explanations of political phenomena. After providing an overview of the principles of multivariate analysis, and the different types of analytical question to which they can be applied, the chapter shows how multivariate analysis is carried out for statistical control purposes. More specifically, it explains the use of OLS regression and logistic regression, the latter of which builds on cross-tabulation, to carry out multivariate analysis. It also discusses the use of multivariate analysis to debunk spurious relationships and to illustrate indirect causality.
Introduction: The Nature of Politics and Political Analysis
Authors: Garner Robert
Published: September 2017

This introductory chapter examines the nature of politics and the political, and more specifically whether politics is an inevitable feature of all human societies. It begins by addressing questions useful when asking about ‘who gets what, when, how?’; for example, why those taking decisions are able to enforce them. The discussion proceeds by focusing on the boundary problems inherent in an analysis of the nature of the political. One such problem is whether politics is equivalent to consensus and cooperation, so that it does not exist in the event of conflict and war. The chapter then explores different forms of political analysis — the empirical, the normative, and the semantic — as well as deductive and inductive methods of studying politics. Finally, it asks whether politics can ever be a science to rival subjects in the natural sciences.
4. Freedom and Justice
Authors: Garner Robert
Published: September 2017

This chapter examines two related, but distinct, political concepts — justice and freedom. It first considers various possible constraints on freedom before discussing the degree to which freedom is desirable. It then explores various alternative values that might conflict with freedom, mainly in the context of John Stuart Mill's political thought; these include equality, paternalism, and happiness. The chapter proceeds by analysing the concept of justice and various criteria for determining its meaning in the context of the major competing theories of justice provided by John Rawls and Robert Nozick. Finally, it evaluates alternative theories of justice which challenge the conventional liberal view that theories of justice should focus only on the nation-state and are applicable only to human beings.
5. Traditional Ideologies
Authors: Garner Robert
Published: September 2017

This chapter examines a range of traditional ideologies associated with the Enlightenment, including liberalism, socialism, nationalism, anarchism, conservatism, and fascism. It first explains what an ideology is and what their general characteristics are before discussing liberalism, socialism, conservatism, nationalism, fascism, and anarchism. In the case of fascism, the chapter describes it as anti-democratic, anti-liberal, and totalitarian. Fascists reject abstract intellectualizing in favour of action and focus on the state's role in creating meaning for individuals. The chapter suggests that each ideology must be understood within the economic, social, and political environment in which it emerged. It also emphasizes the impact of these ideologies on the development of world politics in the last two centuries.
7. Institutions and States
Authors: Ferdinand Peter
Published: September 2017

This chapter deals with institutions and states. Institutions are essentially regular patterns of behaviour that provide stability and predictability to social life. Some institutions are informal, with no formally laid down rules such as the family, social classes, and kinship groups. Others are more formalized, having codified rules and organization. Examples include governments, parties, bureaucracies, legislatures, constitutions, and law courts. The state is defined as sovereign, with institutions that are public. After discussing the concept of institutions and the range of factors that structure political behaviour, the chapter considers the multi-faceted concept of the state. It then looks at the history of how the European type of state and the European state system spread around the world between the seventeenth and twentieth centuries. It also examines the modern state and some of the differences between strong states, weak states, and democratic states.
8. Law, Constitutions, and Federalism
Authors: Ferdinand Peter
Published: September 2017

This chapter examines how laws, constitutions, and federalism provide structure to the context of political life. It first considers the importance of constitutions in determining the basic structure of the state and the fundamental rights of citizens that they establish before asking whether the Universal Declaration of Human Rights is Western-centric. It then explores different ways in which states may attempt to realize justice in applying the law, with particular emphasis on differences between Islamic and Western practice. It also discusses the importance of constitutional courts, the ways that the institution of federalism contains the powers of the state and manage diverse societies, and consociationalism as an alternative approach to managing such diversity. Finally, it comments on the increasing legalization of political life.
13. Democracies, Democratization, and Authoritarian Regimes
Authors: Ferdinand Peter
Published: September 2017

This chapter focuses on democracies, democratization, and authoritarian regimes. It first considers the two main approaches to analysing the global rise of democracy over the last thirty years: first, long-term trends of modernization, and more specifically economic development, that create preconditions for democracy and opportunities for democratic entrepreneurs; and second, the sequences of more short-term events and actions of key actors at moments of national crisis that have precipitated a democratic transition — also known as ‘transitology’. The chapter proceeds by discussing the different types of democracy and the strategies used to measure democracy. It also reviews the more recent literature on authoritarian systems and why they persist. Finally, it examines the challenges that confront democracy in the face of authoritarian revival.
14. Introducing Global Politics
Authors: Lawson Stephanie
Published: September 2017

This chapter discusses global politics in relation to the phenomenon of globalization. ‘Global politics’ as a field of study encompasses the traditional concerns of International Relations with how states interact under conditions of anarchy, but lays greater emphasis on the role of non-state actors and processes in a globalizing world. The chapter first provides an overview of politics in a globalizing world before explaining the basic distinctions between ‘state’ and ‘nation’ in the context of contemporary global politics. It then considers the variation in state forms and the phenomenon of empire throughout history as well as the historical emergence of the modern state and state system in Europe along with ideas about sovereignty and nationalism against the background of ‘modernity’. It also examines the effective globalization of the European state system through modern imperialism and colonialism and the extent to which these have been productive of contemporary global order.