bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Blue rubber bleb naevus syndrome: a rare cause of chronic occult blood loss and iron deficiency anaemia
Authors: Lybecker Martin Bell , Stawowy Marek , Clausen Niels
Published: December 2016

Blue rubber bleb naevus syndrome (BRBNS) is a rare vascular disorder with malformed veins, or blebs, appearing in the skin or internal organs. Gastrointestinal tract involvement is the most common feature and often subject to bleeding, potentially resulting in chronic occult blood loss and iron deficiency anaemia. We present the case of a 10-year-old boy with venous malformations on the feet and severe anaemia. Although massive sudden haemorrhage rarely occurs, awareness of the illness is necessary to prevent complications.
Tibialis anterior muscle hernia: rare but not uncommon
Authors: Hullur Hari , Salem Yousif , Al Khalifa Jawaher , Salem Amro
Published: December 2016

Muscular hernias in the lower limb are a rare entity that have seldom been described in the literature, to the extent that the seminal paper on the subject remains a case series from 1929. Here, we present a case of tibialis anterior muscle hernia and discuss the aetiology behind the same. Furthermore, we attempt to amalgamate existing knowledge to provide some guidance for investigation and management of this important diagnostic consideration.
Physical activity promotion in physiotherapy practice: a systematic scoping review of a decade of literature
Authors: Lowe Anna , Gee Melanie , McLean Sionnadh , Littlewood Chris , Lindsay Carolyn , Everett Simon
Published: December 2016

Background

The health benefits of physical activity (PA) have been extensively documented. Globally PA levels are low with only a small proportion of the population reaching recommended levels. Insufficient PA is seen as a major public health problem with high cost to society. Physiotherapists work with people to manage long-term conditions and are well placed to deliver individual interventions to increase PA. Despite this, little is known about the evidence that exists in this field.

Methods

This scoping review comprises a comprehensive search of key databases using predetermined search terms. This is supplemented with a parallel search that incorporated novel social media strands. In line with current guidance, a robust screening process took place using agreed inclusion and exclusion criteria.

Results

31 studies met the inclusion criteria. The number of studies published annually increased over the decade. Ireland and USA yielded the largest number of publications with only 1 study from the UK. The target populations included physiotherapists and service users from a range of clinical populations. The studies were mainly quantitative and observational in design with a predominance of studies that scoped attitudes, perceptions, barriers and current practice.

Conclusions

This reconnaissance has shown the state of the evidence to be sparse and disparate. However, the sharp rise in published work in recent years is encouraging. The predominance of scoping studies and the clear social, economic and political drivers for change in this area highlights a need for more pragmatic, interventional studies that can inform clinical practice.
Development and evaluation of a venesection and cannulation training manikin
Authors: Levy Andy
Published: December 2016

The design and construction method of a training manikin for venepuncture is described. Developed and refined over several years, the manikin consists of a shaped pad that the training partner secures during use by gripping the handles that extend behind the elbow or forearm. A thin layer of reinforced silicone rubber is stretched over a pad of polyurethane foam that loosely houses a length of thin-walled pure latex tubing fed with artificial blood from a bag worn around the trainer's neck. A needle-proof shield and synthetic fur backing protect the trainer's arm in case of overenthusiastic or inept needle insertion. The whole assembly is inexpensive to make and allows the doctor/patient interaction to be closely simulated. A tourniquet can be positioned and released at the appropriate times: the feel and movement of a blood vessel beneath the skin to palpation and the changes in resistance as the needle is inserted first through the skin and then into the blood vessel is highly realistic. The method for producing the manikin, free of intellectual property limitations or restrictions and a summary of its use in undergraduate assessments are provided.
Wearable technology in the operating room: a systematic review
Authors: Kolodzey Lauren , Grantcharov Peter D , Rivas Homero , Schijven Marlies P , Grantcharov Teodor P
Published: December 2016

Wearable technology is an emerging manifestation of consumer electronics that has the potential to revolutionise healthcare. The novel hands-free design and clinically relevant functionalities of various wearable devices hold significant promise for surgery, but the breadth and quality of evidence supporting clinical implementation in the operating room remains unclear. The objective of this article is to provide an objective overview of the available literature regarding the use of wearable technology in surgery, both in clinical and simulated experimental settings. A systematic review examining the use of wearable technology in surgery was conducted in accordance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines using the MEDLINE and Web of Science databases from inception through 15 January 2016. Three authors independently screened the titles and abstracts of the retrieved articles and those that satisfied the defined inclusion criteria were selected for a full-text review. A total of 87 publications were included in this review. These articles predominantly described the use of Google Glass, GoPro or customised head-mounted displays (HMDs) in a wide range of intraoperative clinical settings. The included articles were categorised based on the highlighted areas of clinical impact, with the majority (56) discussing various applications for enhancing intraoperative safety and efficiency. Almost all articles cited technological limitations and privacy concerns as serious barriers to the implementation of wearable technology in the operating room. Evidence in the available literature regarding the use of wearable technology in the operating room shows promise, but high-quality clinical trials are needed to fully understand their clinical impact. Further, it will be essential to address existing technological limitations, develop healthcare-specific applications, and integrate privacy-protecting safeguards before it may be feasible for wearable devices to seamlessly integrate into the operative environment.
Multicentre individual randomised controlled trial of screening and brief alcohol intervention to prevent risky drinking in young people aged 14–15 in a high school setting (SIPS JR-HIGH): study protocol
Authors: Giles Emma L , Coulton Simon , Deluca Paolo , Drummond Colin , Howel Denise , Kaner Eileen , McColl Elaine , McGovern Ruth , Scott Stephanie , Stamp Elaine , Sumnall Harry , Tate Les , Todd Liz , Vale Luke , Albani Viviana , Boniface Sadie , Ferguson Jennifer , Frankham Jo , Gilvarry Eilish , Hendrie Nadine , Howe Nicola , McGeechan Grant J , Stanley Grant , Newbury-Birch Dorothy
Published: December 2016

Introduction

Drinking has adverse impacts on health, well-being, education and social outcomes for adolescents. Adolescents in England are among the heaviest drinkers in Europe. Recently, the proportion of adolescents who drink alcohol has fallen, although consumption among those who do drink has actually increased. This trial seeks to investigate how effective and efficient an alcohol brief intervention is with 11–15 years olds to encourage lower alcohol consumption.

Methods and analysis

This is an individually randomised two-armed trial incorporating a control arm of usual school-based practice and a leaflet on a healthy lifestyle (excl. alcohol), and an intervention arm that combines usual practice with a 30 min brief intervention delivered by school learning mentors and a leaflet on alcohol. At least 30 schools will be recruited from four regions in England (North East, North West, London, Kent and Medway) to follow-up 235 per arm. The primary outcome is total alcohol consumed in the last 28 days, using the 28 day Timeline Follow Back questionnaire measured at the 12-month follow-up. The analysis of the intervention will consider effectiveness and cost-effectiveness. A qualitative study will explore, via 1:1 in-depth interviews with (n=80) parents, young people and school staff, intervention experience, intervention fidelity and acceptability issues, using thematic narrative synthesis to report qualitative data.

Ethics and dissemination

Ethical approval was granted by Teesside University. Dissemination plans include academic publications, conference presentations, disseminating to local and national education departments and the wider public health community, including via Fuse, and engaging with school staff and young people to comment on whether and how the project can be improved.

Trial registration trial

ISRCTN45691494; Pre-results.
Self-reported breast feeding practices and the Baby Friendly Hospital Initiative in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia: prospective cohort study
Authors: Mosher Cynthia , Sarkar Abdullah , Hashem Alaa AbouBakr , Hamadah Reem E , Alhoulan Asma , AlMakadma Yosra A , Khan Tehreem A , Al-Hamdani Abdurahman K , Senok Abiola
Published: December 2016

Background

The Baby Friendly Hospital Initiative (BFHI) is a practice guideline for healthcare providers to promote breastfeeding and increase breastfeeding rates.

Objective

This study aimed to examine reported experiences and views on breastfeeding of women using prenatal and postnatal services, and opinions of staff, in the context of the BFHI programme in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.

Design

Prospective cohort study.

Setting

This prospective, longitudinal study was conducted from December 2013 to September 2015 at two healthcare facilities (BFHI and non-BFHI) in Riyadh Saudi Arabia.

Methods

Women 36–40 weeks gestation receiving antenatal care at the hospitals were enrolled. Questionnaires were administered prenatally, at 1, 3 and 6 months postnatal and to the administrator and maternity staff.

Results

We recruited 277 women with an estimated 80% response rate. 156 (BFHI=78/139, non-BFHI=78/138, 56%) participants completed all questionnaires. Most BFHI-hospital participants (77.9%, n=8 for this question) acknowledged seeing the breast feeding policy compared to 23.5% (n=23) at the non-BFHI-hospital (p<0.01). Breast feeding education and encouragement was higher at the BFHI-hospital (93.3%) compared to the non-BFHI-hospital (48.2%; p<0.01). At postpartum discharge, 51% (n=53) of mothers in the BFHI-hospital were breast feeding exclusively versus 29.6% (n=29) at the non-BFHI-hospital. Where formula feed was introduced, women in the BFHI-hospital more often practiced mixed feeding rather than exclusive formula feeding with some switching from mixed feeding to exclusive breast feeding between 3 and 6 months postpartum. Exclusive breast feeding rates declined in both hospitals at 3 and 6 months postpartum with lack of community services for lactation being a major reason. Although BFHI-hospital staff (n=9) were more conversant with BFHI principles, defects in adherence to the BFHI 10 Steps were identified.

Conclusions

This is the first study assessing the effectiveness of BFHI implementation in Saudi Arabia. Although women reported increased breast feeding rates, we identified important weaknesses that could be improved through strict compliance with BFHI practices.
Safetxt: a pilot randomised controlled trial of an intervention delivered by mobile phone to increase safer sex behaviours in young people
Authors: McCarthy Ona L , French Rebecca S , Baraitser Paula , Roberts Ian , Rathod Sujit D , Devries Karen , Bailey Julia V , Edwards Phil , Wellings Kaye , Michie Susan , Free Caroline
Published: December 2016

Objective

To test the procedures proposed for a main trial of a safer sex intervention for young people delivered by mobile phone text message (‘safetxt’).

Design and setting

Pilot randomised controlled trial. Participants were recruited through sexual health services in the UK. An independent online randomisation system allocated participants to receive the safetxt intervention or to receive the control text messages (monthly messages about participation in the study). Texting software delivered the messages in accordance with a predetermined schedule.

Participants

Residents of England aged 16–24 who had received either a positive chlamydia test result or reported unsafe sex in the last year (defined as more than 1 partner and at least 1 occasion of sex without a condom).

Intervention

The safetxt intervention is designed to reduce sexually transmitted infection in young people by supporting them in using condoms, telling a partner about an infection and testing before unprotected sex with a new partner. Safetxt was developed drawing on: behavioural science; face-to-face interventions; the factors known to influence safer sex behaviours and the views of young people.

Outcomes

The coprimary outcomes of the pilot trial were the recruitment rate and completeness of follow-up.

Results

We recruited 200 participants within our target of 3 months and we achieved 81% (162/200) follow-up response for the proposed primary outcome of the main trial, cumulative incidence of chlamydia at 12 months.

Conclusions

Recruitment, randomisation, intervention delivery and follow-up were successful and a randomised controlled trial of the safetxt intervention is feasible.

Trial registration number

ISRCTN02304709; Results.
Impact of self-funding on patient experience of oral anticoagulation self-monitoring: a qualitative study
Authors: Tompson Alice , Heneghan Carl , Sutton Stephen , Fitzmaurice David , Ward Alison
Published: December 2016

Objective

To explore the impact self-funding has on patient experience of oral anticoagulation therapy self-monitoring.

Design

Semistructured, qualitative interviews were conducted. Transcripts were analysed thematically using constant comparison.

Setting

England.

Participants

Interviewees were participants of the Cohort Study of Anticoagulation Self-Monitoring (CASM). Cohort members were recruited as they bought a monitor from the major manufacturer in the UK. A purposive sample was invited to be interviewed on completion of the 12-month cohort follow-up.

Data

Patient narratives on their experiences of self-monitoring their oral anticoagulation therapy in non-trial conditions.

Results

26 interviews were completed. Interviewees viewed purchasing the monitoring device as a long-term commitment balancing the limitations of clinic-based monitoring against the cost. They were unable to try out the monitor prior to purchase and therefore had to be confident in their own ability to use it. The variable provision of self-monitoring equipment caused resentment, and interviewees were uncomfortable negotiating with healthcare professionals. High test strip usage while learning how to use the monitor caused anxiety that was exacerbated by worries about their cost. However, self-funding did mean that interviewees felt a sense of ownership and were determined to persevere to overcome problems.

Conclusions

Self-funding has negative implications in terms of equity of access; however, the money invested acts as a barrier to discontinuation. If oral anticoagulation therapy self-monitoring devices and consumables were provided free of charge in routine care, the training and support available in England may need to be reviewed to prevent discontinuation rates rising to those observed in clinical trials.
Acute uncomplicated appendicitis study: rationale and protocol for a multicentre, prospective randomised controlled non-inferiority study to evaluate the safety and effectiveness of non-operative management in children with acute uncomplicated appendicitis
Authors: Xu Jane , Liu Yingrui Cyril , Adams Susan , Karpelowsky Jonathan
Published: December 2016

Introduction

This article presents an overview of a prospective randomised controlled non-inferiority study designed to evaluate the safety and effectiveness of non-operative management (NOM) with operative management in children with acute uncomplicated appendicitis (AUA). Here, we present the study protocol for this APRES study, a multicentre Australian study. The rationale and details of future analysis, in particular, non-inferiority calculations, cost-effectiveness, feasibility and acceptability of each intervention.

Design

A multicentre, prospective randomised controlled clinical trial, conducted in 2 Australian tertiary paediatric hospitals.

Participants

Children who meet the inclusion criteria of an age between 5 and 15 years and a clinical diagnosis of AUA will be invited to participate, and after consent will be randomised via a computer-based program into treatment groups. The study started in June 2016, and the target recruitment is 220 patients.

Interventions

Children in the control group will be treated with prophylactic antibiotics and appendicectomy, and those in the intervention group will be treated with antibiotic therapy alone. Primary outcome measures include unplanned or unnecessary operation and complications at 30 days. Secondary outcomes include longer term complications within 1 year, length of stay, time off work and school analgesic requirements and cost.

Analysis

Data analyses will be on the intention-to-treat principle using non-inferiority analysis. Analysis will include the Pearson χ2test for categorical variables and independent sample t-test or Mann-Whitney test for continuous variables. Non-inferiority for NOM will be tested using 1-sided Wald tests with an α level of 0.05.

Ethics and dissemination

The research has been approved by the Human Research Ethics Committee of the Sydney Children's Hospital Network. In addition, results will be reported through academic journals, seminars and conference presentations.

Trial registration numbers

NCT02795793;ACTRN12616000788471.
Feasibility of a web-based suicide awareness programme for Asian American college students
Authors: Choi Heeseung , Park Hanjong , Suarez Marie L , Park Chang , Zhao Zhongsheng , Wilkie Diana J
Published: December 2016

Objective

The Truth about Suicide video has been widely used but has never been empirically tested regarding its cultural appropriateness for Asian Americans. The purpose of the study was to determine the feasibility of using the video in a web-based suicide awareness programme for Asian American and non-Hispanic white college students.

Methods

A cross-sectional, comparative, web-based study was conducted with 227 Asian Americans and 204 non-Hispanic whites at a university in the Midwest region of the USA. Study participants completed a questionnaire measuring their cultural orientation and attitudes towards suicide, watched the 27 min video, completed a debriefing session and evaluated the video's overall suitability.

Results

Asian Americans rated the suicide awareness video significantly lower for cultural relevance than did non-Hispanic whites (F=5.479, p=0.02). Collectivist cultural orientation was a significant predictor for cultural relevance, credibility and appeal; however, evaluation of the video's cultural relevance was negatively affected by Asian ethnicity.

Conclusions

Cultural orientation and race/ethnicity should be strongly considered when web-based suicide awareness programmes are developed for college students.
Interventions for the prevention of cardiovascular diseases: a protocol for a systematic review of economic evaluations in low-income and middle-income countries
Authors: Aminde Leopold Ndemnge , Veerman Lennert
Published: December 2016

Introduction

Low-income and middle-income countries (LMICs) are experiencing a growing disease burden due to cardiovascular and other chronic non-communicable diseases. Interventions for the control of these diseases are paramount; however, these countries are faced with competing health and financial needs. There is an urgent need for quality evidence on cost-effective strategies to address these chronic diseases. We aim to synthesise the current literature on economic evaluations of interventions for primary and secondary cardiovascular disease prevention in LMICs.

Methods and analysis

A systematic review of studies (published and unpublished) in LMICs up to 30 October 2016 will be conducted. The following databases will be searched: PubMed/MEDLINE, EMBASE, SCOPUS, CINAHL, Web of Science, EconLit, NHS Economic Evaluations Database (NHS EED). Data sources specific to African literature, such as the WHO AFROLIB, Africa Index Medicus and African Journals online (AJOL) as well as grey literature, will also be searched. 2 reviewers shall independently screen potential articles for inclusion and disagreements shall be resolved by consensus. Quality appraisal of studies shall be done using Drummond's checklist for economic evaluation of studies. A descriptive synthesis of the evidence obtained is planned. The primary outcomes will be costs per life years gained or unit of clinical outcome, cost per quality-adjusted life years or disability-adjusted life years. This systematic review protocol has been prepared according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-analyses for Protocols (PRISMA-P) 2015 statement.

Ethics and dissemination

Ethics approval is not required considering that this is a protocol for a systematic review of published studies. Results from this review will be disseminated via conference presentations and peer-reviewed journal publications.

Trial registration number

CRD42016043510.
Improving door-to-needle times for patients presenting with ST-elevation myocardial infarction at a rural district general hospital
Authors: Jordan Mark , Caesar Jenny
Published: December 2016

Acute coronary syndrome is a common condition with a major global impact on healthcare resources and expenditure. International guidelines are clear in specifying that patients with acute ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) should receive urgent coronary reperfusion with either primary percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) or thrombolysis. Although PCI is the gold standard in the treatment of STEMI, this is not always achievable in a rural hospital with no cardiac catheterization service. Consequently, local recommendations on STEMI management exist to promote timely administration of thrombolysis within 30 minutes of patient arrival. However, translating updated clinical policy into practice is a challenging and complex task that requires a multi-faceted approach with sustained engagement from local stakeholders.

Whilst working at a district general hospital in New Zealand, we noted a high incidence of patients presenting with STEMI receiving thrombolytic therapy outside the recommended 30 minutes door-to-needle time. Although final treatment was often only delayed by 5-10 minutes, we were concerned by the seemingly inconsistent management of these patients, often leading to unnecessary delays in the initiation of rapid reperfusion therapy.

We therefore championed a newly updated clinical guideline and promoted an early STEMI recognition and treatment algorithm in our hospital to raise awareness amongst staff and improve door-to-needle times. We introduced a number of simple low-cost interventions that included educational sessions for junior doctors and cardiac nursing staff, as well as posters and training on the use of a remote electronic ECG interpretation system to streamline out-of-hours management.

Overall, we found there to a be a steady improvement in door-to-needle times at our hospital, with 74% of patients receiving appropriate care within 30 minutes, compared to 43% prior to our interventions. This also translated to better patient outcomes.

This project forms part of an ongoing process to instigate quality improvements in the management of STEMI within rural institutions. Whilst we have demonstrated improved utilisation of a local STEMI guideline and streamlining of out-of-hours services, the key challenge remains to ensure that momentum of this project continues and forms a platform for sustainable clinical improvement in the long term.
Hospital transfer associated with increased mortality after endovascular revascularization for acute ischemic stroke
Authors: Rinaldo Lorenzo , Brinjikji Waleed , McCutcheon Brandon A , Bydon Mohamad , Cloft Harry , Kallmes David F , Rabinstein Alejandro A
Published: December 2016

Background

Patients with an acute ischemic stroke (AIS) due to large vessel occlusion often require transfer to an endovascular center for treatment.

Objective

To assess the effect of hospital transfer on outcomes after endovascular revascularization.

Methods

Outcomes of endovascular revascularization were compared between directly admitted and transferred patients using data from a national database and our own institution.

Results

118 institutions within the database reported outcomes of 8533 inpatient admissions for endovascular treatment of AIS. Mortality rate (14.9% vs 18.6%; p=0.049) and mortality index (1.1 vs 1.6; p=0.048) were significantly lower among directly admitted patients than among transferred patients. Within our institutional cohort of 140 patients who underwent endovascular therapy, directly admitted patients had a significantly faster time to revascularization than transferred patients (277.4 vs 420.4 min; p≤0.0001). Among transferred patients, an increasing distance of transferred hospital to our home institution was associated with an increasing risk of mortality (unit OR=1.26, 95% CI 1.07 to 1.54; p=0.0061).

Conclusions

Outcomes of revascularization may improve with methods to identify patients with large vessel occlusion before hospital admission, thus increasing the likelihood of initial triage to a comprehensive stroke center for patients eligible for endovascular intervention.
Mapping discussion of canine obesity between veterinary surgeons and dog owners: a provisional study
Authors: Cairns‐Haylor Theodora , Fordyce Peter
Published: December 2016

This study maps communication between veterinary surgeons and dog owners on obesity management in four first‐opinion practices in the UK. A total of 74 dog owners who met the study's inclusion criteria and 24 veterinary surgeons were interviewed using oral questionnaires between November 2013 and May 2014. The dog owner questionnaire was based on potential discussion areas that could influence an owner's intention to act (initiate a weight loss regime) based on Ajzen's Theory of Planned Behaviour. The veterinary surgeons’ questionnaires assessed perception of canine obesity, their personal communication strategies and current practice‐level interventions. The findings identify opportunities for more proactive approaches to obesity management by veterinary surgeons and their practices.
A Novel PDE-Based Single Image Super-Resolution Reconstruction Method
Authors: Zhao Xiaodong , Cao Jianzhong , Zhou Zuofeng , Huang Jijiang
Published: December 2016

For applications such as remote sensing imaging and medical imaging, high-resolution (HR) images are urgently required. Image Super-Resolution (SR) reconstruction has great application prospects in optical imaging. In this paper, we propose a novel unified Partial Differential Equation (PDE)-based method to single image SR reconstruction. Firstly, two directional diffusion terms calculated by Anisotropic Nonlinear Structure Tensor (ANLST) are constructed, combing information of all channels to prevent singular results, making full use of its directional diffusion feature. Secondly, by introducing multiple orientations estimation using high order matrix-valued tensor instead of gradient, orientations can be estimated more precisely for junctions or corners. As a unique descriptor of orientations, mixed orientation parameter (MOP) is separated into two orientations by finding roots of a second-order polynomial in the nonlinear part. Then, we synthesize a Gradient Vector Flow (GVF) shock filter to balance edge enhancement and de-noising process. Experimental results confirm the validity of the method and show that the method enhances image edges, restores corners or junctions, and suppresses noise robustness, which is competitive with the existing methods.
Recognition of High-Voltage Cable Partial Discharge Signal Based on Adaptive Fuzzy C-Means Clustering
Authors: Chen Baichao , Qi Weiqiang , Yuan Jiaxin , You Yihong
Published: December 2016

Partial discharge (PD) detection is an effective means to find high-voltage cable defects. However, various interference signals affect the PD signal in practical applications, resulting in wrong judgment. In order to improve the accuracy of PD detection of high voltage cables, an adaptive fuzzy C-means (FCM) clustering was proposed to identify PD signals. The adaptive threshold pulse extraction algorithm based on fixed interval width was employed. The threshold was changed adaptively to extract the effective PD pulse waveform according to the change of the background noise and the degree of PD. Then PD pulse features were analyzed in time and frequency domain by employing the equivalent time frequency analysis method. The adaptive fuzzy clustering algorithm was used to classify the signals. The phase distribution concentration of all kinds of pulse signal was calculated. The phase standard deviation of various types of pulse was taken as the index that measures the concentration of density to distinguish between PD and interference signals. Results show that the adaptive FCM clustering algorithm, compared with the traditional method, can not only identify the PD signal accurately, but also be conscious of the PD category. The PD recognition method proposed in this paper has strong applicability and high accuracy, which is particularly suitable for application in the field of engineering.
On global solutions to the viscous liquid–gas model with unconstrained transition to single-phase flow
Authors: Evje Steinar , Wen Huanyao , Zhu Changjiang
Published: December 2016

In this paper, we consider the Dirichlet problem of a one-velocity viscous drift-flux model. One of the phases is compressible, the other one is weakly compressible. Under weak assumptions on the initial data, which can be discontinuous and large as well as involve transition to pure single-phase points or regions, we show existence of global bounded weak solutions. One main ingredient is that we employ a decomposition of the pressure term appearing in the mixture momentum equation into two components, one for each of the two phases. This paves the way for deriving a basic energy equality. In particular, upper bounds on the masses are extracted from the estimates provided by the energy equality. By relying on weak compactness tools we obtain an existence result within the class of weak solutions. An essential novel aspect of this analysis, compared to previous works on the same model, is that the solution space is large enough to allow for transition to single-phase flow without any constraints. In particular, one of the phases can vanish in a point while the other phase can persist. The key to achieve this result, which represents a major step forward compared to previous results for this model, is that we do not rely on any higher-order (i.e. derivatives in space) estimates on the masses or pressure, only low-order estimates provided by the energy equality and the uniform upper bounds on the liquid and gas mass.
A general state-sum construction of 2-dimensional topological quantum field theories with defects
Authors: Kamau-Devers Gathoni , Jardine Gail , Yetter David
Published: December 2016

We derive a general state sum construction for 2D topological quantum field theories (TQFTs) with source defects on oriented curves, extending the state-sum construction from special symmetric Frobenius algebra for 2D TQFTs without defects (cf. Lauda and Pfeiffer [State-sum construction of two-dimensional open-closed topological quantum field theories, J. Knot Theory Ramifications 16 (2007) 1121–1163, doi: 10.1142/S0218216507005725]). From the extended Pachner moves (Crane and Yetter [Moves on filtered PL manifolds and stratified PL spaces, arXiv:1404.3142 ]), we derive equations that we subsequently translate into string diagrams so that we can easily observe their properties. As in Dougherty, Park and Yetter [On 2-dimensional Dijkgraaf–Witten theory with defects, to appear in J. Knots Theory Ramifications], we require that triangulations be flaglike, meaning that each simplex of the triangulation is either disjoint from the defect curve, or intersects it in a closed face, and that the extended Pachner moves preserve flaglikeness.
On the arc index of Kanenobu knots
Authors: Lee Hwa Jeong , Takioka Hideo
Published: December 2016

In this paper, we calculate the Kauffman polynomials [Formula: see text] of Kanenobu knots [Formula: see text] with [Formula: see text] half twists and determine their spans on the variable [Formula: see text] completely. As an application, we determine the arc index of infinitely many Kanenobu knots. In particular, we give sharper lower bounds of the arc index of [Formula: see text] by using canonical cabling algorithm and the 2-cable [Formula: see text]-polynomials. Moreover, we give sharper upper bounds of the arc index of some Kanenobu knots by using their braid presentations.
OPTIMIZATION PHOTODETECTORS FROM ZINC SULFIDE DEPOSITED ON POROUS SILICON WITH DIFFERENT DOPING METALS
Authors: NAYEF UDAY MUHSIN , KHALAF HAIDER AMER
Published: December 2016

In this work, the structural properties of the zinc sulfide (ZnS) films have been investigated using X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis which show an enhancement in the crystallite degree after doping with copper (Cu). Good matching between the ZnS and porous silicon (PS) structure was noted from the atomic force microscope (AFM) results. The reflectivity gave a clear observation of anti-reflected coating improvement for PS layer and more enhancements after the ZnS deposition. The optical properties show a blue shift in the bandgap for the ZnS deposited with higher substrate temperature and a red shift after doped with different elements. For ZnS/PS heterojunction, the electrical resistivity has been increased after PS layer formed and changed with the variation of the pore size and it was much higher after ZnS deposited on the PS. However, use of ZnS:Cu/PS photodetector showed much higher output current at the ultraviolet (UV) region compared to ZnS/PS. The ZnS:Cu/PS photodetector showed higher output current value than that of the ZnS/PS leading to improvement in the quantum efficiency of 42%.
CONTRASTIVE STUDY ON THE STRUCTURE AND THE ULTRAVIOLET ABSORPTION PROPERTY OF MULTIPLE-DOPED AND ELEMENT-DOPED ZnO THIN FILMS
Authors: XU YUNYUN , ZHANG TAO , LIN ZHENRONG , TIAN YANFENG , ZHOU SHANDAN
Published: December 2016

Sb2O3- and CeO2-doped ZnO thin films were prepared by RF magnetron sputtering technique. The influence of Sb2O3 and CeO2 on the structure and ultraviolet (UV) absorption properties was studied by X-ray diffraction and UV–Vis spectrophotometry. Results show that multiple doping of films had a prominent effect on the development of crystal grains and the UV absorption property. Ce and Sb exist in many forms in the ZnO film. The multiple-doped films also show enhanced UVA absorption, and the UV absorption peak widens and the absorption intensity increases. Sb plays a dominant role on the structure and UV absorption of ZnO thin films, which are enhanced by Ce.
Optimal maps in essentially non-branching spaces
Authors: Cavalletti Fabio , Mondino Andrea
Published: December 2016

In this paper we prove that in a metric measure space [Formula: see text] verifying the measure contraction property with parameters [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text], any optimal transference plan between two marginal measures is induced by an optimal map, provided the first marginal is absolutely continuous with respect to [Formula: see text] and the space itself is essentially non-branching. In particular this shows that there exists a unique transport plan and it is induced by a map.
Expansion of the spectrum in the weak disorder regime for random operators in continuum space
Authors: Borisov Denis , Hoecker-Escuti Francisco , Veselić Ivan
Published: December 2016

We study the spectrum of random ergodic Schrödinger-type operators in the weak disorder regime. We give upper and lower bounds on how much the spectrum expands at its bottom for very general perturbations. The background operator is assumed to be a periodic elliptic differential operator on [Formula: see text], not necessarily of second order.
A class of asymptotically periodic fractional Schrödinger equations with critical growth
Authors: de Souza Manassés , Araújo Yane Lísley
Published: December 2016

In this paper, we study a class of fractional Schrödinger equations in [Formula: see text] of the form [Formula: see text] where [Formula: see text], [Formula: see text], [Formula: see text] is the critical Sobolev exponent, [Formula: see text] is a positive potential bounded away from zero, and the nonlinearity [Formula: see text] behaves like [Formula: see text] at infinity for some [Formula: see text], and does not satisfy the usual Ambrosetti–Rabinowitz condition. We also assume that the potential [Formula: see text] and the nonlinearity [Formula: see text] are asymptotically periodic at infinity. We prove the existence of at least one solution [Formula: see text] by combining a version of the mountain-pass theorem and a result due to Lions for critical growth.
On the Harnack inequality for degenerate and singular elliptic equations with unbounded lower order terms via sliding paraboloids
Authors: Le Nam Q.
Published: December 2016

We use the method of sliding paraboloids to establish a Harnack inequality for linear, degenerate and singular elliptic equation with unbounded lower order terms. The equations we consider include uniformly elliptic equations and linearized Monge–Ampère equations. Our argument allows us to prove the doubling estimate for functions which, at points of large gradient, are solutions of (degenerate and singular) elliptic equations with unbounded drift.
Multi-peak positive solutions for the fractional Schrödinger–Poisson system
Authors: Liu Weiming , Niu Miaomiao
Published: December 2016

In this paper, we study the existence of positive multi-peak solutions to the fractional Schrödinger–Poisson system [Formula: see text] where [Formula: see text] is a small parameter, [Formula: see text] is a positive function, [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text] Under some given conditions which are given in Sec. ??, we prove the existence of a positive solution with m-peaks and concentrating near a given local maximum point of [Formula: see text]
Motivic measures of moduli spaces of 1-dimensional sheaves on rational surfaces
Authors: Yuan Yao
Published: December 2016

We study the moduli space of rank 0 semistable sheaves on some rational surfaces. We show the irreducibility and stable rationality of them under some conditions. We also compute several (virtual) Betti numbers of those moduli spaces by computing their motivic measures.
Finite groups with some s-conditionally permutable subgroups
Authors: Mirdamadi S. E. , Rezaeezadeh G. R.
Published: December 2016

A subgroup [Formula: see text] of a finite group [Formula: see text] is said to be [Formula: see text]-conditionally permutable in [Formula: see text] if for every Sylow subgroup [Formula: see text] of [Formula: see text], there exists an element [Formula: see text] such that [Formula: see text]. In this paper, the structure of solvable group [Formula: see text] in which every [Formula: see text]-subgroup of [Formula: see text] or every subnormal subgroup of [Formula: see text] is [Formula: see text]-conditionally permutable in [Formula: see text] is described. Let [Formula: see text] be a solvable group and [Formula: see text] the largest prime dividing [Formula: see text]. Suppose further that [Formula: see text] is the Sylow [Formula: see text]-subgroup of [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text]. We are going to show that [Formula: see text] is a PST-group if and only if every subnormal subgroup of [Formula: see text] is [Formula: see text]-conditionally permutable in [Formula: see text].
Automorphisms of the co-maximal ideal graph over matrix ring
Authors: Wang Dengyin , Chen Li , Tian Fenglei
Published: December 2016

Let [Formula: see text] be a finite field with [Formula: see text] elements, [Formula: see text] be the ring of all [Formula: see text] matrices over [Formula: see text], [Formula: see text] be the set of all nontrivial left ideals of [Formula: see text]. The co-maximal ideal graph of [Formula: see text], denoted by [Formula: see text], is a graph with [Formula: see text] as vertex set and two nontrivial left ideals [Formula: see text] of [Formula: see text] are adjacent if and only if [Formula: see text]. If [Formula: see text], it is easy to see that [Formula: see text] is a complete graph, thus any permutation of vertices of [Formula: see text] is an automorphism of [Formula: see text]. A natural problem is: How about the automorphisms of [Formula: see text] when [Formula: see text]. In this paper, we aim to solve this problem. When [Formula: see text], a mapping [Formula: see text] on [Formula: see text] is proved to be an automorphism of [Formula: see text] if and only if there is an invertible matrix [Formula: see text] and a field automorphism [Formula: see text] of [Formula: see text] such that [Formula: see text] for any [Formula: see text], where [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text] for [Formula: see text].
Cationic ring-opening polymerization of cyclic carbonates and lactones by group 4 metallocenes: A theoretical study on mechanism and ring-strain effects
Authors: Jitonnom Jitrayut , Meelua Wijitra
Published: December 2016

Group 4 metallocene-mediated cationic ring-opening polymerizations of a series of lactones and cyclic carbonates, with different ring sizes ([Formula: see text]–8) have been theoretically studied. Using the “naked cation” approach in combination with density functional theory, the activated chain-end mechanism and the influence of transition metals, solvent and monomer ring size on the polymerizability were explored in detail. The results showed that the cationic metallocene–monomer complex, [catalyst][monomer][Formula: see text], is formed, generating cationic (carbocation ion) species responsible for polymer chain growth. We found that poor polymerizability of five-membered lactone and six-membered ring carbonate depends not only on the nature of the monomer ring size but also the relative stability of the complex, which was found to correlate well with the ring strain. Subsequently, several propagation steps take place through an SN2 reaction which involves ring opening of an active monomer, via alkyl–oxygen bond cleavage. Based on the computed activation energies of all metallocene systems, the first propagation was found to be the rate-determining step of the overall propagation and the hafnocene was found to be most active with the energy barrier of 17.6[Formula: see text]kcal/mol, followed by zirconocene (18.6[Formula: see text]kcal/mol) and titanocene (19.5[Formula: see text]kcal/mol), respectively. The mechanistic study may be applicable to the cationic ROP of lactides and other related monomers.
Multiverse effects on the CMB angular correlation function in the framework of NCG
Authors: Arabzadeh Sahar , Kaviani Kamran
Published: December 2016

Following many theories that predict the existence of the multiverse and by conjecture that our space-time may have a generalized geometrical structure at the fundamental level, we are interested in using a non-commutative geometry (NCG) formalism to study a suggested two-layer space that contains our 4-dimensional (4D) universe and a re-derived photon propagator. It can be shown that the photon propagator and a cosmic microwave background (CMB) angular correlation function are comparable, and if there exists such a multiverse system, the distance between the two layers can be estimated to be within the observable universe’s radius. Furthermore, this study revealed that our results are not limited to CMB but can be applied to many other types of radiation, such as X-rays.
EXPLORING NEW SERVICE PORTFOLIO MANAGEMENT
Authors: AAS TOR HELGE , BREUNIG KARL JOACHIM , HYDLE KATJA MARIA
Published: December 2016

Most research on the management of innovation portfolios has focused on new product portfolios, whereas the management of new service portfolios has not been researched correspondingly. This paper addresses this literature gap by exploring portfolio management of New Service Development (NSD) activities empirically. The paper applies a qualitative research design, where data was collected in 52 in-depth interviews with managers and employees involved with NSD. The study finds that the portfolio management activities and processes were carried out in parallel with the NSD process, and that the most important stakeholders in the NSD portfolio management organization were top managers not involved in the daily NSD operations. Findings reveal that the firms used a great variety of criteria when making portfolio decisions. However, contrary to prescriptions based on new product development research, the decision process exposed for NSD was to a limited degree assisted by explicit portfolio management tools. We explicate our findings in five propositions.
LOW SPECIFICITY OF A NESTED REVERSE TRANSCRIPTION POLYMERASE CHAIN REACTION TO DETECT AVIAN INFLUENZA VIRUS NUCLEOPROTEIN GENE
Authors: Wang Lih-Chiann , Hsu Wei-En , Thong Wei , Chao Ting-Yen , Wang Ching-Ho
Published: December 2016

Reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) was used routinely to detect the avian influenza virus (AIV) nucleoprotein (NP) gene. The purpose of the present study was to compare the correctness of a nested RT-PCR (nRT-PCR), one conventional RT-PCR with its outer primer (oRT-PCR) and the other conventional RT-PCR with its inner primer (iRT-PCR) to detect AIV NP gene. A total of 365 AI-free fecal swabs (73 pools), 7 tracheal swabs and anllantoic fluid from 25 chicken embryos were used to determine the analytic specificities of those tests. Compared with the iRT-PCR, the nRT-PCR was more sensitive for AIV detection. However, the specificities of nRT-PCR, oRT-PCR and iRT-PCR were 48.6% (35/72), 100% (67/67) and 91.3% (84/92), respectively. The amplifying band was sequenced and confirmed to be the AIV NP gene as the positive control. The specificity of this nRT-PCR is too low to be used for the AIV screening test.
Post-Buckling Analysis of Edge Cracked Columns Under Axial Compression Loads
Authors: Akbaş Şeref Doğuşcan
Published: December 2016

In this paper, post-buckling analysis of an edge cracked cantilever column subjected to non-follower axial compression loads are studied by using the total Lagrangian Timoshenko column element approximation. The cross-section of the column is circular. The cracked column is modeled as an assembly of two sub-column connected through a massless elastic rotational spring. In the case of columns subjected to compression loads, load rise causes compressible forces end therefore buckling and post-buckling phenomena occurs. It is known that post-buckling problems are geometrically nonlinear problems. The considered highly non-linear problem is solved considering full geometric nonlinearity by using incremental displacement-based finite element method in conjunction with Newton–Raphson iteration method. There is no restriction on the magnitudes of deflections and rotations in contradistinction to von-Karman strain–displacement relations of the column. The columns considered in numerical examples are made of lower-carbon steel. In the study, the effect of the cracks on the deflections, rotational angles, post-buckling configuration and Cauchy stresses of the columns are illustrated in detail in post-buckling case. The difference between cracked case and intact case is investigated in detail.