bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Mobile C‐Arm with a CMOS detector: Technical assessment of fluoroscopy and Cone‐Beam CT imaging performance
Authors: Sheth Niral M. , Zbijewski Wojciech , Jacobson Matthew W. , Abiola Godwin , Kleinszig Gerhard , Vogt Sebastian , Soellradl Stefan , Bialkowski Jens , Anderson William S. , Weiss Clifford R. , Osgood Greg M. , Siewerdsen Jeffrey H.
Published: October 2018

Purpose

Indirect‐detection CMOS flat‐panel detectors (FPDs) offer fine pixel pitch, fast readout, and low electronic noise in comparison to current a‐Si:H FPDs. This work investigates the extent to which these potential advantages affect imaging performance in mobile C‐arm fluoroscopy and cone‐beam CT (CBCT).

Methods

FPDs based on CMOS (Xineos 3030HS, 0.151 mm pixel pitch) or a‐Si:H (PaxScan 3030X, 0.194 mm pixel pitch) sensors were outfitted on equivalent mobile C‐arms for fluoroscopy and CBCT. Technical assessment of 2D and 3D imaging performance included measurement of electronic noise, gain, lag, modulation transfer function (MTF), noise‐power spectrum (NPS), detective quantum efficiency (DQE), and noise‐equivalent quanta (NEQ) in fluoroscopy (with entrance air kerma ranging 5–800 nGy per frame) and cone‐beam CT (with weighted CT dose index, CTDIw, ranging 0.08–1 mGy). Image quality was evaluated by clinicians in vascular, orthopaedic, and neurological surgery in realistic interventional scenarios with cadaver subjects emulating a variety of 2D and 3D imaging tasks.

Results

The CMOS FPD exhibited ~2–3× lower electronic noise and ~7× lower image lag than the a‐Si:H FPD. The 2D (projection) DQE was superior for CMOS at ≤50 nGy per frame, especially at high spatial frequencies (~2% improvement at 0.5 mm−1 and ≥50% improvement at 2.3 mm−1) and was somewhat inferior at moderate‐high doses (up to 18% lower DQE for CMOS at 0.5 mm−1). For smooth CBCT reconstructions (low‐frequency imaging tasks), CMOS exhibited ~10%–20% higher NEQ (at 0.1–0.5 mm−1) at the lowest dose levels (CTDIw ≤0.1 mGy), while the a‐Si:H system yielded slightly (~5%) improved NEQ (at 0.1–0.5 lp/mm) at higher dose levels (CTDIw ≥0.6 mGy). For sharp CBCT reconstructions (high‐frequency imaging tasks), NEQ was ~32% higher above 1 mm−1 for the CMOS system at mid‐high‐dose levels and ≥75% higher at the lowest dose levels (CTDIw ≤0.1 mGy). Observer assessment of 2D and 3D cadaver images corroborated the objective metrics with respect to a variety of pertinent interventional imaging tasks.

Conclusion

Measurements of image noise, spatial resolution, DQE, and NEQ indicate improved low‐dose performance for the CMOS‐based system, particularly at lower doses and higher spatial frequencies. Assessment in realistic imaging scenarios confirmed improved visibility of fine details in low‐dose fluoroscopy and CBCT. The results quantitate the extent to which CMOS detectors improve mobile C‐arm imaging performance, especially in 2D and 3D imaging scenarios involving high‐resolution tasks and low‐dose conditions.
Typology of online lotteries and scratch games gamblers' behaviours: A multilevel latent class cluster analysis applied to player account‐based gambling data
Authors: Perrot Bastien , Hardouin Jean‐Benoit , Grall‐Bronnec Marie , Challet‐Bouju Gaëlle
Published: October 2018

Objectives

Internet gambling is often considered as a risk factor for gambling problems compared with land‐based gambling. In parallel, this online activity generates data that can be useful to characterize Internet gambling behaviours. The objectives were to define a typology of online lotteries and scratch games gamblers' behaviours in order to identify early risky gambling behaviours and to classify gamblers in order to identify individuals with global risky gambling behaviours.

Methods

We performed a multilevel latent class cluster based on player account‐based data of 10,000 gamblers from a French online operator.

Results

We identified seven clusters of online lotteries and scratch games gamblers' behaviours. A small cluster (3%) was characterized by a very high gambling activity, a high probability of chasing behaviour, a large proportion of bets concerning instant lotteries and scratch games, and a high proportion of women. We also found a group of gamblers having an 81% probability of being each month in this cluster.

Conclusions

The identification of distinct clusters of gambling behaviours and of groups of gamblers having different probabilities of being in these clusters through time could allow the implementation of personalized prevention measures according to the gamblers' profile.
An affective space view on depression and anxiety
Authors: Xu Meng Lin , De Boeck Paul , Strunk Daniel
Published: October 2018

The circumplex model for core affect is among the most prominent characterizations of emotion and has received extensive empirical support. However, no prior study exists that connects the measurement of depression and anxiety with the core affect structure and the bipolar dimensions of arousal and valence it includes.

Objectives

This study aims to investigate the reconcilability between a continuous model based on Russell's core affect system and a discrete entity view on depression and anxiety.

Methods

The data were drawn from the anxiety and depression short forms in the Patient‐Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System (N = 763). It consists of 15 items with a 5‐point Likert scale. Ratings of the items in terms of distress and arousal were obtained from experts in emotion research. An approach based on Russell's core affect theory was compared with the common type of factor models in which the items are lined up on clearly separated depression and anxiety dimensions with an empty space in between, as if they are separate and discrete entities. Our alternative model works with a continuous space instead.

Results

The core affect theory‐based method exhibits a goodness of fit that is comparable with the conventional models.

Conclusions

Depression and anxiety can be understood in terms of Russell's bipolar core affect model; the core affect‐based model leaves room for symptoms in the space between dimensions.
T1 and T2 quantification from standard turbo spin echo images
Authors: McPhee Kelly C. , Wilman Alan H.
Published: October 2018

Purpose

To extract longitudinal and transverse (T1 and T2) relaxation maps from standard MRI methods.

Methods

Bloch simulations were used to model relative signal amplitudes from standard turbo spin‐echo sequences: proton density weighted, T2‐weighted, and either T2‐weighted fluid attenuated inversion recovery or T1‐weighted images. Simulations over a range of expected parameter values yielded a look‐up table of relative signal intensities of these sequences. Weighted images and flip angle maps were acquired in 8 subjects at 3 T using both single and multislice acquisitions. The T1 and T2 maps were fit by comparing the weighted images to the look‐up table, given the measured flip angles. Results were compared with inversion recovery and multi‐echo spin‐echo experiments.

Results

A region analysis showed that relaxation maps computed from single‐slice proton density, T2 and T1 weighting provided a mean T1 error of 4% in gray matter and 11% in white matter, and a mean T2 error of 3% and 4%, respectively, in comparison to reference measurements. In multislice acquisitions that are optimized to reduce cross‐talk and incidental magnetization transfer, the mean T1 error was 7% in gray matter and 1% in white matter, and the mean T2 errors were 3% and 4%, respectively. The best T1 results were achieved using proton density, T2 and T1 weighting rather than the fluid attenuated inversion recovery, although T2 maps were largely unaffected by this choice. Incidental magnetization transfer reduced T1 accuracy in standard interleaved multislice acquisitions.

Conclusion

Through exact sequence modeling and separate flip angle measurement, T2 and T1 may be quantified from a turbo spin‐echo brain protocol with proton density, T2, and T1 weighting.
Towards a ‘resolution limit’ for DW‐MRI tumor microstructural models: A simulation study investigating the feasibility of distinguishing between microstructural changes
Authors: McHugh Damien J. , Hubbard Cristinacce Penny L. , Naish Josephine H. , Parker Geoffrey J. M.
Published: October 2018

Purpose

To determine the feasibility of extracting sufficiently precise estimates of cell radius,R, and intracellular volume fraction,fi, from DW‐MRI data in order to distinguish between specific microstructural changes tissue may undergo, specifically focusing on cell death in tumors.

Methods

Simulations with optimized and non‐optimized clinical acquisitions were performed for a range of microstructures, using a two‐compartment model. The ability to distinguish between (i) cell shrinkage with cell density constant, mimicking apoptosis, and (ii) cell size constant with cell density decreasing, mimicking loss of cells, was evaluated based on the precision of simulated parameter estimates. Relationships between parameter precision, SNR, and the magnitude of specific parameter changes, were used to infer SNR requirements for detecting changes.

Results

Accuracy and precision depended on microstructural properties, SNR, and the acquisition protocol. The main benefit of optimized acquisitions tended to be improved accuracy and precision ofR, particularly for small cells. In most cases considered, higher SNR was required for detecting changes inRthan for changes infi.

Conclusions

Given the relative changes inRandfidue to apoptosis, simulations indicate that, for a range of microstructures, detecting changes inRrequire higher SNR than detecting changes infi, and that such SNR is typically not achieved in clinical data. This suggests that if apoptotic cell size decreases are to be detected in clinical settings, improved SNR is required. Comparing measurement precision with the magnitude of expected biological changes should form part of the validation process for potential biomarkers.
Nerve hydrodissection for carpal tunnel syndrome: A prospective, randomized, double‐blind, controlled trial
Authors: Wu Yung‐Tsan , Chen Si‐Ru , Li Tsung‐Ying , Ho Tsung‐Yen , Shen Yu‐Ping , Tsai Chia‐Kuang , Chen Liang‐Cheng
Published: October 2018

Introduction: In this study we explored the efficacy of nerve hydrodissection for mild‐to‐moderate carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS). Methods: Thirty‐four participants were randomly assigned to an intervention group or a control group. One 5‐ml dose of normal saline was injected into the intracarpal and subcutaneous regions in subjects of both groups, respectively. The primary outcome measure was the Boston Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Questionnaire (BCTQ) score. Secondary outcomes were cross‐sectional area of the median nerve and electrophysiological studies. Assessments were performed before the injection and at 1, 2, 3, and 6 months postintervention. Results: Compared with the control group, the intervention group showed significantly greater improvement at the second and third posttreatment months according to BCTQ severity score and at all time‐points for cross‐sectional area of the median nerve (P < 0.01). Discussion: Our study demonstrates the therapeutic effects of nerve hydrodissection for mild‐to‐moderate CTS. Muscle Nerve 59:174–180, 2019
Evidence of a Genetically Distinct Population of Striped Bass within the Saint John River, New Brunswick, Canada
Authors: Leblanc Nathalie M. , Andrews Samuel N. , Avery Trevor S. , Puncher Gregory N. , Gahagan Benjamin I. , Whiteley Andrew R. , Curry R. Allen , Pavey Scott A.
Published: October 2018

Sound management of a species requires, among other things, careful consideration of their distribution and genetic structure throughout their range. Historically, there were three spawning populations of Striped Bass Morone saxatilis occurring within the Bay of Fundy, Canada (Shubenacadie River, Annapolis River, and Saint John River), but today the only known spawning population is found in the Shubenacadie River, Nova Scotia. The last spawning event recorded (albeit unsuccessful) in the Saint John River was in 1975 shortly after the completion of the Mactaquac Dam in 1968. Adult Striped Bass from other rivers frequent the Saint John River during much of the year, making the presence of adults uninformative about the status of spawning. In the absence of direct indicators of spawning, such as eggs and larvae, genomic tools can provide insight into the genetic origin of the juvenile Striped Bass in the Saint John River. Tissue samples were taken from Striped Bass (ages 1–3; 12.2–35.0 cm TL) captured in the Saint John River and compared with samples from the Shubenacadie River, Hudson River, and Chesapeake Bay. A double-digest RAD-seq technique was used to identify 4,700 single nucleotide polymorphisms, and population structure was assessed using population differentiation statistics (FST) and genetic clustering algorithms. The FST analysis found significant differences among all sample sites, albeit weak differences between Hudson River and Chesapeake Bay samples, and a global FST of 0.101. Genetic clustering analyses and discriminant analysis of principle components both grouped samples into three clusters: the Shubenacadie River, the U.S. populations, and the Saint John River juveniles. Based on these findings and the current understanding of Striped Bass juvenile dispersal, there is strong evidence of a genetically distinct population of Striped Bass within the Saint John River.
A comparison of coil combination strategies in 3D multi‐channel MRSI reconstruction for patients with brain tumors
Authors: Vareth Maryam , Lupo Janine M. , Larson Peder E.Z. , Nelson Sarah J.
Published: October 2018

The goal of this study was to find the most robust algorithm for a phase‐sensitive coil combination of 3D single‐cycle and lactate‐edited, multi‐channel H‐1 point‐resolved spectroscopy (PRESS) localized echo planar spectroscopic imaging (EPSI) data for clinical applications in the brain.

Data were acquired over 5–10 minutes at 3T using 8‐ or 32‐channel array coils. Peak referencing with residual water and N‐acetyl‐aspartate, first‐point phasing, generalized least squared (GLS) and whitened singular‐value decomposition (WSVD) combination algorithms were evaluated relative to unsuppressed water with data from a phantom, six volunteers and 55 patients with brain tumors. Comparison metrics were signal‐to‐noise ratio, coefficient of variance and percent signal increase.

Where residual water was present, using it as a reference peak for phasing and weighting factors from an imaging calibration scan gave the best overall performance. Greater improvement was seen for large selected volumes (>720 cm3) and for the 32‐channel array (25%) compared with the 8‐channel array (19%). Applying voxel‐by‐voxel phase corrections produced a larger increase in performance for the 32‐ versus 8‐channel coil.

We conclude that, for clinically relevant 3D H‐1 PRESS localized EPSI studies, the most robust technique employed individual phase maps generated from high residual water and individual amplitude maps generated from calibration scans.
Comparison of Li+‐ion conductivity in linear and crosslinked poly(ethylene oxide)
Authors: Hasan Nazmul , Pulst Martin , Samiullah Muhammad Haris , Kressler Jörg
Published: October 2018

Polymer electrolytes are of tremendous importance for applications in modern lithium‐ion (Li+‐ion) batteries due to their satisfactory ion conductivity, low toxicity, reduced flammability, as well as good mechanical and thermal stability. In this study, the Li+‐ion conductivity of well‐defined poly(ethylene oxide) (PEO) networks synthesized via copper(I)‐catalyzed azide–alkyne cycloaddition is investigated by electrochemical impedance spectroscopy after addition of different lithium salts. The ion conductivity of the network electrolytes increases with increasing molar mass of the PEO chains between the junction points which is completely opposite to the behavior of their respective uncrosslinked linear precursors. Obviously, this effect is directly related to the segmental mobility of the PEO chains. Furthermore, the ion conductivity of the network electrolytes under investigation increases also with increasing size of the anion of the added lithium salt due to a weaker anti‐plasticizing effect of the more bulky anions. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Polym. Sci., Part B: Polym. Phys. 2019, 57, 21–28
Spatio‐temporal dynamics of Varroa destructor resistance to tau‐fluvalinate in Czechia, associated with L925V sodium channel point mutation
Authors: Stara Jitka , Pekar Stano , Nesvorna Marta , Kamler Martin , Doskocil Ivo , Hubert Jan
Published: October 2018

BACKGROUND

Extensive application of pyrethroids to control Varroa destructor, an invasive mite devastating bee colonies, has resulted in a global spread of resistant mite populations. In this study, we analyzed the spatio‐temporal dynamics of resistant V. destructor populations in Czechia, stemming from the L925V mutation. Mites were collected during 2011–2018 directly or from winter beeswax debris, and polymerase chain reaction–restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR–RFLP) and densitometry was used to detect the L925V mutation.

RESULTS

Pooled samples of 10 mites were classified, based on their PCR–RFLP patterns, as tau‐fluvalinate‐sensitive (56%), resistant (9%), or mixed (35%), with the latter including sensitive and resistant homo‐ and heterozygotes. We identified two zones with higher frequencies of resistance, one in southern Moravia and the other in Bohemia. The mutant populations were evenly distributed throughout the monitored districts, with a few temporal and spatial local fluctuations. The greatest increase in resistance was observed in 2016, following massive losses of bee colonies in the winter of 2015. This event appeared to be closely associated with fluctuations in resistant mite populations and their dispersion.

CONCLUSION

Two outbreaks of resistance were detected in Czechia; however, the amount of applied tau‐fluvalinate was not correlated with the frequency of resistance in mites. There was no remarkable increase in mite resistance in 2011–2018, although the use of tau‐fluvalinate increased 40‐fold between 2011 and 2015. PCR–RFLP analysis, performed on mites present in beeswax debris, is a suitable method for monitoring the L925V mutation in V. destructor. © 2018 Society of Chemical Industry
How artificial intelligence is transforming healthcare
Authors: Houlton Sarah
Published: October 2018

Artificial intelligence (AI) is already beginning to transform many aspects of healthcare, from offering advice to interpreting scans. This article discusses the progress that has been made so far and the AI‐based applications we are likely to see in the near future.
Current recommended management of tuberculosis
Authors: Rogers Benedict , Kennedy Matthew , Wiselka Martin , Morris Thomas , Venkatraman Navin
Published: October 2018

Despite reductions in overall case numbers both globally and in the UK, tuberculosis (TB) remains a major health problem. Here, the authors discuss the pathogenesis of TB and important aspects of management, alongside recent developments in epidemiology, diagnostics and treatment.
Simplifying prescribing data: OpenPrescribing two years on
Authors: Ogden Joy
Published: October 2018

OpenPrescribing is an online service launched in 2016 that facilitates the analysis of NHS primary care prescribing data in order to improve the quality and cost‐effectiveness of prescribing. In this article, Joy Ogden talks to its founders Dr Ben Goldacre and Dr Peter Brindle about what the service has achieved since its launch, and their plans for its future development.
Global second‐order sliding mode control for nonlinear uncertain systems
Authors: Shi Shang , Xu Shengyuan , Zhang Baoyong , Ma Qian , Zhang Zhengqiang
Published: October 2018

Second‐order sliding mode (SOSM) control is used to keep exactly a constraint σ of the second relative degree or to avoid chattering phenomenon. Yet, the traditional SOSM controllers are designed based upon the assumption that the uncertainties or their derivatives are bounded by positive constants. In this paper, a global SOSM controller is designed for a general class of single‐input–single‐output nonlinear systems with uncertainties bounded by positive functions. Moreover, a variable‐gain robust exact differentiator is developed such that the SOSM controllers with finite‐time convergence can also be implemented even when the derivative of the constraint σ is unavailable. Simulation results are given to show the effectiveness of the proposed method.
Nonlinear H∞ observer design for one‐sided Lipschitz discrete‐time singular systems with time‐varying delay
Authors: Yang Yuxia , Lin Chong , Chen Bing
Published: October 2018

This paper investigates the H∞ observer design problem for a class of nonlinear discrete‐time singular systems with time‐varying delays and disturbance inputs. The nonlinear systems can be rectangular and the nonlinearities satisfy the one‐sided Lipschitz condition and quadratically inner‐bounded condition, which are more general than the traditional Lipschitz condition. By appropriately dealing with these two conditions and applying several important inequalities, a linear matrix inequality–based approach for the nonlinear observer design is proposed. The resulting nonlinear H∞ observer guarantees asymptotic stability of the estimation error dynamics with a prescribed performance γ. The synthesis condition of H∞ observer design for nonlinear discrete‐time singular systems without time delays is also presented. The design is first addressed for one‐sided Lipschitz discrete‐time singular systems. Finally, two numerical examples are given to show the effectiveness of the present approach.
Try 8 apps to streamline your professional, personal life
Authors: Sutton Halley
Published: October 2018

NASHVILLE, Tenn. — If you could use some help making your personal and professional life more efficient, organized, and streamlined, then you'll want to consider downloading the following eight apps. Beth Ziesenis, writer, editor, and owner of the website Your Nerdy Best Friend, recommended some of the most helpful and interesting apps during a presentation at the annual conference for the Society for College and University Planning.
Six Years (2012–2018) of Researches on Catalytic EZH2 Inhibitors: The Boom of the 2‐Pyridone Compounds
Authors: Fioravanti Rossella , Stazi Giulia , Zwergel Clemens , Valente Sergio , Mai Antonello
Published: October 2018

Enhancer of zeste homolog 2 (EZH2), the catalytic subunit of the Polycomb repressive complex 2 (PRC2), catalyzes the methylation of lysine 27 of histone H3 (H3K27) up to its trimethylated form (H3K27me), inducing by this way block of transcription and gene silencing. High levels of H3K27me3 have been found in both hematological malignancies and solid cancers, due to EZH2 overexpression and/or EZH2 mutation. From 2012, a number of highly potent and selective catalytic inhibitors of EZH2 have been reported, almost all bearing a 2‐pyridone group in their structure. Typically, 2‐pyridone inhibitors are selective for EZH2 over other methyltransferases, and some of them are specific for EZH2 over EZH1, others behave as dual EZH2/EZH1 inhibitors. The 2‐pyridone moiety was crucial for the enzyme inhibition, as revealed later by crystallographic studies because it occupies partially the site for the co‐substrate SAM (or the by‐product, SAH) in the binding pocket of the enzyme, accounting for the SAM‐competitive mechanism of action displayed by all the 2‐pyridone inhibitors. The 2‐pyridone warhead is linked to a support substructure, that can be either a bicyclic heteroaromatic ring (such as indazole, see for instance EPZ005687 and UNC1999, or indole, see for instance GSK126, EI1, and the more recent CPI‐1205) or a simple monocyclic (hetero) aromatic ring (tazemetostat, MC3629, (R)‐OR‐S1/2), eventually annulated with the amide chain carrying the 2‐pyridone group (3,4‐dihydroisoquinoline‐1(2H)‐ones). Different substitutions at the support moiety influence the pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of the compounds as well as their water solubility. In cancer diseases, the first reported 2‐pyridone inhibitors displayed high antiproliferative effects in vitro and in vivo in lymphomas characterized by mutant EZH2 (such as Y641N), but the most recent compounds exert their anticancer activity against tumors with wild‐type EZH2 as well. The dual EZH2/1 inhibitors have been recently reported to be more effective than EZH2 selective inhibitors in specific leukemias including leukemias cancer stem cells.
The distress in not stressing and destressing stress in English: Using wordplay to boost awareness, intelligibility, and communicative competence
Authors: Schaefer Vance , Darcy Isabelle , Abe Linda
Published: October 2018

Stress is an integral part of conveying meaning in English at not only the level of the word but also the phrase and rhetoric where it is exploited in English in literature, humor, advertising, and more. Simultaneously, stress marks language variation in regional, generational, and ethnic dialects. Thus, stress bears a great functional load and social load in communicative competence. Yet stress is not generally fully addressed in English as a second language courses. Minimal stress pairs such as a record (noun) versus to record (verb), a black board versus a blackboard, to walk the walk, and so on provide, along with other types of wordplay, an optimal method to have learners notice and practice stress. When combined with a systematic teaching approach informed by second language phonology (intelligibility, comprehensive range of pronunciation from metalinguistic awareness to phonological processes, simultaneous focus on both form and function) and pronunciation/language teaching praxis (noticing, form to function practice), using such minimal stress pairs and wordplay can boost awareness more effectively and facilitate acquisition of stress and its extensive role in English, enhancing intelligibility and communicative competence.
Cover Image, Volume 10, Issue 6
Authors: Miller Michael I. , Arguillère Sylvain , Tward Daniel J. , Younes Laurent
Published: October 2018

The cover image is based on Advanced Review Computational anatomy and diffeomorphometry: A dynamical systems model of neuroanatomy in the soft condensed matter continuum by Michael I. Miller et al., DOI: 10.1002/wsbm.1425.

image
Correction to: Geodynamics and Earth Tides Observations from Global to Micro Scale
Authors: Braitenberg Carla , Rossi Giuliana
Published: October 2018

The below mentioned chapters were published as Open access with incorrect Copyright holder name as “© Springer Nature Switzerland AG”. This has now been updated as “© The Author(s)” in these chapters. Accordingly, the Cover and the FrontMatter have been updated to reflect these changes.
The conformal bootstrap at finite temperature
Authors: Iliesiu Luca , Koloğlu Murat , Mahajan Raghu , Perlmutter Eric , Simmons-Duffin David
Published: October 2018

Abstract

We initiate an approach to constraining conformal field theory (CFT) data at finite temperature using methods inspired by the conformal bootstrap for vacuum correlation functions. We focus on thermal one- and two-point functions of local operators on the plane. The KMS condition for thermal two-point functions is cast as a crossing equation. By studying the analyticity properties of thermal two-point functions, we derive a “thermal inversion formula” whose output is the set of thermal one-point functions for all operators appearing in a given OPE. This involves identifying a kinematic regime which is the analog of the Regge regime for four-point functions. We demonstrate the effectiveness of the inversion formula by recovering the spectrum and thermal one-point functions in mean field theory, and computing thermal one-point functions for all higher-spin currents in the criticalO(N) model at leading order in 1/N. Furthermore, we develop a systematic perturbation theory for thermal data in the large spin, low-twist spectrum of any CFT. We explain how the inversion formula and KMS condition may be combined to algorithmically constrain CFTs at finite temperature. Throughout, we draw analogies to the bootstrap for vacuum four-point functions. Finally, we discuss future directions for the thermal conformal bootstrap program, emphasizing applications to various types of CFTs, including those with holographic duals.
Momentum-space conformal blocks on the light cone
Authors: Gillioz Marc
Published: October 2018

Abstract

We study the momentum-space 4-point correlation function of identical scalar operators in conformal field theory. Working specifically with null momenta, we show that its imaginary part admits an expansion in conformal blocks. The blocks are polynomials in the cosine of the scattering angle, with degree ℓ corresponding to the spin of the intermediate operator. The coefficients of these polynomials are obtained in a closed-form expression for arbitrary spacetime dimension d > 2. If the scaling dimension of the intermediate operator is large, the conformal block reduces to a Gegenbauer polynomial

$$ {\mathcal{C}}_{\ell}^{\left(d-2\right)/2} $$

C
ℓ

d
−
2

/
2

. If on the contrary the scaling dimension saturates the unitarity bound, the block is different Gegenbauer polynomial

$$ {\mathcal{C}}_{\ell}^{\left(d-3\right)/2} $$

C
ℓ

d
−
3

/
2

. These results are then used as an inversion formula to compute OPE coefficients in a free theory example.
Risk Factors for Readmission After Parathyroidectomy for Renal Hyperparathyroidism
Authors: Lee Justin D. , Kuo Eric J. , Du Lin , Yeh Michael W. , Livhits Masha J.
Published: October 2018

Background

Patients with renal hyperparathyroidism (RHPT) are susceptible to major electrolyte fluctuations following parathyroidectomy, which may predispose them to early readmission. The purpose of this study is to evaluate risk factors for readmission in patients undergoing parathyroidectomy for RHPT.

Methods

Patients with renal failure who underwent parathyroidectomy were abstracted from the California Office of Statewide Health Planning and Development (1999–2012). Multivariable logistic regression was used to identify risk factors for readmission within 30 days of discharge.

Results

The cohort included 4411 patients, of whom 17% were readmitted. Procedures included subtotal parathyroidectomy (74% of cases) and total parathyroidectomy with autotransplantation (26%). Median time to readmission was 9 days (interquartile range 4–16 days). Electrolyte disturbances including hypocalcemia were present in 36% of readmissions and were the most common cause for readmission. Independent risk factors for readmission included Black race [odds ratio (OR) 1.26, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.00–1.57], Hispanic race (OR 1.38, 95% CI 1.12–1.71), disposition with home health (OR 1.94, 95% CI 1.35–2.77), disposition to a skilled nursing facility (OR 2.30, 95% CI 1.58–3.35), and total parathyroidectomy with autotransplantation (OR 1.27, 95% CI 1.06–1.52). Advancing age (OR 0.98, 95% CI 0.98–0.99) and surgery at a high‐volume hospital (OR 0.53, 95% CI 0.36–0.77) were protective against readmission.

Conclusions

Patients undergoing parathyroidectomy for RHPT have a high readmission rate, most frequently for metabolic complications. Increased postoperative vigilance, which may include outpatient laboratory monitoring, may be indicated in patients with risk factors for readmission.
Laparoscopic Hepatectomy Versus Open Hepatectomy for the Management of Hepatocellular Carcinoma: A Comparative Study Using a Propensity Score Matching
Authors: Untereiner Xavier , Cagniet Audrey , Memeo Riccardo , Cherkaoui Zineb , Piardi Tullio , Severac François , Mutter Didier , Kianmanesh Reza , Wakabayashi Taiga , Sommacale Daniele , Pessaux Patrick
Published: October 2018

Objectives

The aim of this study was to compare the results between laparoscopic hepatectomy and open hepatectomy in two French university hospitals, for the management of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) using a propensity score matching.

Materials and methods

A patient in the laparoscopic surgery group (LA) was randomly matched with another patient in the open approach group (OA) using a 1:1 allocated ratio with the nearest estimated propensity score. Matching criteria included age, presence of comorbidities, American Society of Anesthesiologists score, and resection type (major or minor). Patients of the LA group without matches were excluded. Intraoperative and postoperative data were compared in both groups. Survival was compared in both groups using the following matching criteria: number and size of lesions, alpha‐fetoprotein rate, and cell differentiation.

Results

From January 2012 to January 2017, a total of 447 hepatectomies were consecutively performed, 99 hepatectomies of which were performed for the management of hepatocellular carcinomas. Forty‐nine resections were performed among the open approach (OA) group (49%), and 50 resections were performed among the laparoscopic surgery (LA) group (51%). Mortality rate was 2% in the LA group and 4.1% in the OA group. After propensity score matching, there was a statistical difference favorable to the LA group regarding medical complications (54.55% versus 27.27%, p = 0.04), and operating times were shorter (p = 0.03). Resection rate R0 was similar between both groups: 90.91% (n = 30) in the LA group and 84.85% (n =) in the OA group. There was no difference regarding overall survival (p = 0.98) and recurrence‐free survival (p = 0.42).

Conclusions

Laparoscopic liver resection for the management of HCC seems to provide the same short‐term and long‐term results as compared to the open approach. Laparoscopic liver resections could be considered as an alternative and become the gold standard in well‐selected patients.
Comparison of Schmallenberg virus sequences isolated from mammal host and arthropod vector
Authors: Kęsik-Maliszewska Julia , Antos Aleksandra , Rola Jerzy , Larska Magdalena
Published: October 2018

Schmallenberg virus (SBV) is the member of Peribunyaviridae family, which comprises pathogens of importance for human and veterinary medicine. The virus is transmitted only between animals and mainly by biting midges of the genus Culicoides. This study was performed in order to determine SBV genetic diversity and elucidate the host–vector adaptation. All three viral segments were analysed for sequence variability and phylogenetic relations. The Polish SBV strains obtained from acute infections of cattle, congenital cases in sheep, and from Culicoides midges were sequenced using Sanger and next-generation sequencing (NGS) methods. The obtained sequences were genetically similar (99.2–100% identity) to the first-detected strain BH80/11—4 from German cattle. The sampling year and origin of Polish sequences had no effect on molecular diversity of SBV. Considering all analysed Polish as well as European sequences, ovine-derived sequences were the most variable, while the midge ones were more conserved and encompassed unique substitutions located mainly in nonstructural protein S. SBV sequences isolated from Culicoides are the first submitted to GenBank and reported.
Properties of a sweeping jet emitted from a fluidic oscillator
Authors: Ostermann Florian , Woszidlo Rene , Nayeri C. Navid , Paschereit C. Oliver
Published: October 2018

This experimental study investigates the flow field and properties of a sweeping jet emitted from a fluidic oscillator into a quiescent environment. The aspect ratio of the outlet throat is 1. Stereoscopic particle image velocimetry is employed to measure the velocity field plane-by-plane. Simultaneously acquired pressure measurements provide a reference for phase correlating the individual planes yielding three-dimensional, time-resolved velocity information. Lagrangian and Eulerian visualization techniques illustrate the phase-averaged flow field. Circular head vortices, similar to the starting vortex of a steady jet, are formed repetitively when the jet is at its maximum deflection. The quantitative jet properties are determined from instantaneous velocity data using a cylindrical coordinate system that takes into account the changing deflection angle of the jet. The jet properties vary throughout the oscillation cycle. The maximum jet velocity decays much faster than that of a comparable steady jet indicating a higher momentum transfer to the environment. The entrainment rate of the spatially oscillating jet is larger than for a steady jet by a factor of 4. Most of the mass flow is entrained from the direction normal to the oscillation plane, which is accompanied by a significant increase in jet depth compared to a steady jet. The high entrainment rate results from the enlarged contact area between jet and ambient fluid due to the spatial oscillation. The jet’s total force exceeds that of an idealized steady jet by up to 30 %. The results are independent of the investigated oscillation frequencies in the range from 5 to 20 Hz.
Flow topologies in bubble-induced turbulence: a direct numerical simulation analysis
Authors: Hasslberger Josef , Klein Markus , Chakraborty Nilanjan
Published: October 2018

This paper presents a detailed investigation of flow topologies in bubble-induced two-phase turbulence. Two freely moving and deforming air bubbles that have been suspended in liquid water under counterflow conditions have been considered for this analysis. The direct numerical simulation data considered here are based on the one-fluid formulation of the two-phase flow governing equations. To study the development of coherent structures, a local flow topology analysis is performed. Using the invariants of the velocity gradient tensor, all possible small-scale flow structures can be categorized into two nodal and two focal topologies for incompressible turbulent flows. The volume fraction of focal topologies in the gaseous phase is consistently higher than in the surrounding liquid phase. This observation has been argued to be linked to a strong vorticity production at the regions of simultaneous high fluid velocity and high interface curvature. Depending on the regime (steady/laminar or unsteady/turbulent), additional effects related to the density and viscosity jump at the interface influence the behaviour. The analysis also points to a specific term of the vorticity transport equation as being responsible for the induction of vortical motion at the interface. Besides the known mechanisms, this term, related to surface tension and gradients of interface curvature, represents another potential source of turbulence production that lends itself to further investigation.
Computational Phenotyping: Using Models to Understand Individual Differences in Personality, Development, and Mental Illness
Authors: Patzelt Edward H. , Hartley Catherine A. , Gershman Samuel J.
Published: October 2018

This paper reviews progress in the application of computational models to personality, developmental, and clinical neuroscience. We first describe the concept of a computational phenotype, a collection of parameters derived from computational models fit to behavioral and neural data. This approach represents individuals as points in a continuous parameter space, complementing traditional trait and symptom measures. One key advantage of this representation is that it is mechanistic: The parameters have interpretations in terms of cognitive processes, which can be translated into quantitative predictions about future behavior and brain activity. We illustrate with several examples how this approach has led to new scientific insights into individual differences, developmental trajectories, and psychopathology. We then survey some of the challenges that lay ahead.
On the breakdown modes and parameter space of ohmic tokamak start-up
Authors: Peng Yanli , Jiang Wei , Innocenti Maria Elena , Zhang Ya , Hu Xiwei , Zhuang Ge , Lapenta Giovanni
Published: October 2018

Tokamak start-up is strongly dependent on the state of the initial plasma formed during plasma breakdown. We have investigated through numerical simulations the effects that the pre-filling pressure and induced electric field have on pure ohmic heating during the breakdown process. Three breakdown modes during the discharge are found, as a function of different initial parameters: no breakdown mode, successful breakdown mode and runaway mode. No breakdown mode often occurs with low electric field or high pre-filling pressure, while runaway electrons are usually easy to generate at high electric field or low pre-filling pressure (${<}1.33\times 10^{-4}$  Pa). The plasma behaviours and the physical mechanisms under the three breakdown modes are discussed. We have identified the electric field and pressure values at which the different modes occur. In particular, when the electric field is $0.3~\text{V}~\text{m}^{-1}$ (the value at which ITER operates), the pressure range for possible breakdown becomes narrow, which is consistent with Lloyd’s theoretical prediction. In addition, for $0.3~\text{V}~\text{m}^{-1}$, the optimal pre-filling pressure range obtained from our simulations is $1.33\times 10^{-3}\sim 2.66\times 10^{-3}$  Pa, in good agreement with ITER’s design. Besides, we also find that the Townsend discharge model does not appropriately describe the plasma behaviour during tokamak breakdown due to the presence of a toroidal field. Furthermore, we suggest three possible operation mechanisms for general start-up scenarios which could better control the breakdown phase.
The political economy of budget trade-offs
Authors: Adolph Christopher , Breunig Christian , Koski Chris
Published: October 2018

Because the American states operate under balanced budget requirements, increases in spending in one area typically entail equal and opposite budget cuts in other programs. The literature analysing the correlates of government spending by policy area has mostly ignored these trade-offs inherent to policymaking, failing to address one of the most politically interesting and important dimensions of fiscal policy. Borrowing from the statistical literature on compositional data, we present more appropriate and efficient methods that explicitly incorporate the budget constraint into models of spending by budget category. We apply these methods to eight categories of spending from the American states over the years 1984–2009 to reveal winners and losers in the scramble for government spending. Our findings show that partisan governments finance their distinct priorities by raiding spending items that the opposition prefers, while different political institutions, economic conditions and state demographics impose different trade-offs across the budget.
Pragmatique de la valeur et structures de la marchandise
Authors: Boltanski Luc
Published: October 2018

Au cours des dernières décennies se sont développées différentes approches sociologiques se réclamant de conceptions pragmatistes. Ces approches mettent l'accent sur l'agir en situation, sur les capacités réflexives et interprétatives des individus et sur leurs compétences sociales. On a souvent vu dans ces conceptions dites pragmatiques une approche alternative au structuralisme qui avait dominé les décennies précédentes. Sans négliger ce qui éloigne ces deux approches l'une de l'autre, nous cherchons à montrer dans ce texte la façon dont elles peuvent non seulement être mises à profit à propos d'un même objet, mais aussi être articulées dans un même cadre théorique. La démonstration prend appui sur des recherches empiriques récentes portant sur l’échange marchand et sur la relation entre prix et valeur. L’étude pragmatique de situations d’échange permet d'identifier différentes formes de mise en valeur qui sont à la fois incorporées aux compétences cognitives des acteurs et objectivées dans les dispositifs de la marchandise. Envisagées d'un point de vue structural, ces formes de mise en valeur peuvent être analysées comme un groupe de transformation, au sens de Claude Lévi-Strauss. Toutefois, ce structuralisme cognitif est insuffisant pour comprendre le changement historique de ces formes, dont l’étude peut faire appel à un autre genre de structuralisme. Ce dernier, que nous qualifions de « systémique », dispose, en de « grands récits », des causalités visant à relier les processus locaux de marchandisation aux évolutions globales du capitalisme.
Une histoire de silences
Authors: Vincent Alexandre
Published: October 2018

Partant d'une lecture critique de la récente Histoire du silence d'Alain Corbin, la présente étude propose un double mouvement. Il s'agit, dans un premier temps, d'une réflexion méthodologique relative à la nécessité de lancer une enquête sur les phénomènes acoustiques du passé qui ne cherche pas seulement à faire ressentir et ne se rattache pas qu'aux émotions. L'historiographie de la notion de « paysage sonore », créée par le musicologue Raymond Murray Schafer, est utilisée comme clé d'entrée pour évaluer l'apport des sound studies, de la sensory history et de l'anthropologie des sens. Les possibilités heuristiques de la notion sont soulignées, conditionnées à une approche cohérente en termes de topographie et de chronologie. Un cas d’étude est développé, dans un second temps, à partir de ces prescriptions méthodologiques. Il est consacré au silence dans les rites de la religion romaine. Cadre acoustique de la perfection rituelle, le silentium est aussi une catégorie du droit religieux romain bien éloignée de la recherche d'intériorité et de vie spirituelle que A. Corbin prête naturellement au silence. L'analyse de la nature et de la fonction du silence dans deux rites distincts, la prise des auspices et le sacrifice, vient achever de convaincre de la nécessité d'une approche historienne fine et contextualisée des phénomènes sonores : derrière une terminologie unifiée ce sont bien deux modalités acoustiques radicalement différentes qui doivent alors être entendues.
Disaster and Emergency Management: Canadian Nurses' Perceptions of Preparedness on Hospital Front Lines
Authors: O'Sullivan Tracey L. , Dow Darcie , Turner Michelle C. , Lemyre Louise , Corneil Wayne , Krewski Daniel , Phillips Karen P. , Amaratunga Carol A.
Published: October 2018

Introduction:

Three years following the global outbreak of severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS), a national, Web-based survey of Canadian nurses was conducted to assess perceptions of preparedness for disasters and access to support mechanisms, particularly for nurses in emergency and critical care units.

Hypotheses:

The following hypotheses were tested: (1) nurses' sense of preparedness for infectious disease outbreaks and naturally occurring disasters will be higher than for chemical, biological, radiological, and nuclear (CBRN)-type disasters associated with terrorist attacks; (2) perceptions of preparedness will vary according to previous outbreak experience; and (3) perceptions of personal preparedness will be related to perceived institutional preparedness.

Methods:

Nurses from emergency departments and intensive care units across Canada were recruited via flyer mailouts and e-mail notices to complete a 30-minute online survey.

Results:

A total of 1,543 nurses completed the survey (90% female; 10% male). The results indicate that nurses feel unprepared to respond to large-scale disasters/attacks. The sense of preparedness varied according to the outbreak/disaster scenario with nurses feeling least prepared to respond to a CBRN event. A variety of socio-demographic factors, notably gender, previous outbreak experience (particularly with SARS), full-time vs. part-time job status, and region of employment also were related to perceptions of risk. Approximately 40% of respondents were unaware if their hospital had an emergency plan for a large-scale outbreak. Nurses reported inadequate access to resources to support disaster response capacity and expressed a low degree of confidence in the preparedness of Canadian healthcare institutions for future outbreaks.

Conclusions:

Canadian nurses have indicated that considerably more training and information are needed to enhance preparedness for frontline healthcare workers as important members of the response community.