bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Clinical features associated with radiological response to sorafenib in unresectable hepatocellular carcinoma: a large multicenter study in Japan
Authors: Takeda Haruhiko , Nishikawa Hiroki , Osaki Yukio , Tsuchiya Kaoru , Joko Kouji , Ogawa Chikara , Taniguchi Hiroyoshi , Orito Etsuro , Uchida Yasushi , Izumi Namiki ,   Japanese Red Cross Liver Study Group
Published: May 2014

Background & Aims

There have been no established predictive factors of responders to sorafenib in patients with unresectable hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). This study aimed to investigate the factors predicting a good response to sorafenib in Japanese patients with HCC.

Methods

A total of 465 patients with unresectable HCC in the Japanese Red Cross Liver Study Group were treated with sorafenib between January 2008 and August 2013, and 316 patients with sufficient clinical data were analysed. To determine the factors predicting a good response, the relationships between radiological response and the following clinicopathological factors were analysed: age, gender, performance status, liver function, tumour status and decrease in serum alpha‐foetoprotein (AFP) level after 1 month.

Results

This study included 259 males and 57 females with a median age of 70 years (range, 37–90 years), of which 191 (60.4%) were classified as Barcelona Clinic Liver Cancer stage C, and 271 (85.8%) had Child‐Pugh class A liver function. The median overall survival time was 307 days and progression‐free survival time was 109 days. According to the modified Response Evaluation Criteria In Solid Tumours, four patients achieved a complete response, 51 achieved a partial response, 136 had stable disease and 125 had progressive disease. Multivariate analysis identified female gender (P = 0.003) and decreased serum AFP level after 1 month (P = 0.042) as independent predictors of a complete or partial response.

Conclusion

Our results suggest female gender and a decrease in serum AFP level are independent predictors of good response to sorafenib.
How a sharp rostral dimorphism affects the life history, population structure and adaptability of a small shrimp: the case study of Hippolyte sapphica
Authors: Liasko Roman , Anastasiadou Chryssa , Ntakis Alexandros , Leonardos Ioannis D.
Published: May 2014

The rostrum shows a large variation across caridean shrimps; however, our knowledge about the biological significance of this morphological structure is very limited, and information on its genetic control is completely absent. The present study concentrates on an unusual rostral dimorphism in a population of small Mediterranean caridean shrimp and combines laboratory and field observations. Analysis of lab‐reared offspring supports the hypothesis that the post‐larval elongation of the rostrum is controlled by a single genetic locus, with the long dentate rostrum representing the recessive state and the short larval‐like rostrum representing the completely dominant state. The short rostrum is a sparsely distributed character; our results obtained from field studies suggest that it reduces the viability and probability of egg‐bearing among large females but, unexpectedly, the specimens with a short rostrum show consistently more rapid sex differentiation and a significantly higher propensity to become males. Therefore, it has to be concluded that, under certain conditions, a single emergent character could influence the species evolution in a rather complex manner, thus affecting the life history, population structure and dynamics and mortality in certain subgroups. In turn, the genetic factors responsible for the different phenotypes would tend to be segregated through different subpopulations and size classes, thus partially escaping the negative selective pressure.
Moving beyond perceptions: internalized stigma in the irritable bowel syndrome
Authors: Taft T. H. , Riehl M. E. , Dowjotas K. L. , Keefer L.
Published: May 2014

Background

Internalized stigma (IS) is an important construct in the chronic illness literature with implications for several patient reported outcomes. To date, no study exists evaluating IS in patients with the irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).

Methods

Two hundred and forty three online and clinical participants completed the following questionnaires: the IS scale for mental illness (ISMI; modified for IBS), perceived stigma scale for IBS, NIH‐PROMIS Anxiety and Depression Scales, IBS quality of life scale, and the Perceived Health Competence Scale. Demographical and clinical data were also collected.

Key Results

The modified ISMI was reliable and valid in this population. Participants reported both perceived and IS. Alienation was most reported, followed by social withdrawal and discrimination experiences. IS predicted 25–40% of the variance in psychological functioning, quality of life, healthcare utilization, and health competence when controlling for stigma perception and disease variables. IBS patients perceived more stigma from personal relations than healthcare providers. Hispanic participants reported more perceived stigma, indicating there may be cultural differences in IBS‐related stigma experience. Symptom severity, disruptiveness, and treatment choices are also implicated in stigma perception and internalization.

Conclusions & Inferences

Patients with IBS report both perceived and IS with alienation most reported. However, IS significantly predicts several patient outcomes when controlling for PS. Cultural and illness traits may influence how stigma is perceived and internalized. Future research is warranted.
Mapping of the Left‐Sided Phrenic Nerve Course in Patients Undergoing Left Atrial Catheter Ablations
Authors: HUEMER MARTIN , WUTZLER ALEXANDER , PARWANI ABDUL S. , ATTANASIO PHILIPP , HAVERKAMP WILHELM , BOLDT LEIF‐HENDRIK
Published: May 2014

Background

Catheter ablation of atrial fibrillation has been associated with left‐sided phrenic nerve palsy. Knowledge of the individual left phrenic nerve course therefore is essential to prevent nerve injury. The aim of this study was to test the feasibility of an intraprocedural pace mapping and reconstruction of the left phrenic nerve course and to characterize which anatomical areas are affected.

Methods

In patients undergoing left atrial catheter ablation, a three‐dimensional map of the left atrial anatomical structures was created. The left‐sided phrenic nerve course was determined by high‐output pace mapping and reconstructed in the map.

Results

In this study, 40 patients with atrial fibrillation or atrial tachycardias were included. Left phrenic nerve capture was observed in 23 (57.5%) patients. Phrenic nerve was captured in 22 (55%) patients inside the left atrial appendage, in 22 (55%) in distal parts, in 21 (53%) in medial parts, and in two (5%) in ostial parts of the appendage. In three (7.5%) patients, capture was found in the distal coronary sinus and in one (2.5%) patient in the left atrium near the left atrial appendage ostium. Ablation target was changed due to direct spatial relationship to the phrenic nerve in three (7.5%) patients. No phrenic nerve palsy was observed.

Conclusions

Left‐sided phrenic nerve capture was found inside and around the left atrial appendage in the majority of patients and additionally in the distal coronary sinus. Phrenic nerve mapping and reconstruction can easily be performed and should be considered prior catheter ablations in potential affected areas.
Retracted: Long‐term efficacy and safety of blonanserin in patients with first‐episode schizophrenia: A 1‐year open‐label trial
Authors: Ninomiya Yuriko , Miyamoto Seiya , Tenjin Tomomi , Ogino Shin , Miyake Nobumi , Kaneda Yasuhiro , Sumiyoshi Tomiki , Yamaguchi Noboru
Published: May 2014

The above article from Psychiatry and Clinical Neurosciences, first published on 6 July 2014 in Wiley Online Library (www.onlinelibrary.wiley.com), and in Volume 68, Issue 12 pp. 841–849, has been retracted by agreement between the authors, the Editors‐in‐Chief, Shigenobu Kanba and Tadafumi Kato, and John Wiley & Sons Australia Ltd. The retraction has been agreed following a report from the Investigation Committee of Clinical Trials carried out at St. Marianna University School of Medicine which established that the trial included subjects who did not satisfy inclusion criteria due to a number of factors, including lack of written informed consent. At the same time, the Committee verified that there was no falsification, fabrication or other infringement associated with the paper.
Impact of Acquired Immunity and Dose‐Dependent Probability of Illness on Quantitative Microbial Risk Assessment
Authors: Havelaar A. H. , Swart A. N.
Published: May 2014

Dose‐response models in microbial risk assessment consider two steps in the process ultimately leading to illness: from exposure to (asymptomatic) infection, and from infection to (symptomatic) illness. Most data and theoretical approaches are available for the exposure‐infection step; the infection‐illness step has received less attention. Furthermore, current microbial risk assessment models do not account for acquired immunity. These limitations may lead to biased risk estimates. We consider effects of both dose dependency of the conditional probability of illness given infection, and acquired immunity to risk estimates, and demonstrate their effects in a case study on exposure to Campylobacter jejuni. To account for acquired immunity in risk estimates, an inflation factor is proposed. The inflation factor depends on the relative rates of loss of protection over exposure. The conditional probability of illness given infection is based on a previously published model, accounting for the within‐host dynamics of illness. We find that at low (average) doses, the infection‐illness model has the greatest impact on risk estimates, whereas at higher (average) doses and/or increased exposure frequencies, the acquired immunity model has the greatest impact. The proposed models are strongly nonlinear, and reducing exposure is not expected to lead to a proportional decrease in risk and, under certain conditions, may even lead to an increase in risk. The impact of different dose‐response models on risk estimates is particularly pronounced when introducing heterogeneity in the population exposure distribution.
Abnormal Daily Temperature and Concern about Climate Change Across the United States
Authors: Brooks Jeremy , Oxley Douglas , Vedlitz Arnold , Zahran Sammy , Lindsey Charles
Published: May 2014

The relatively low level of concern about climate change among Americans has important implications for climate policy. While many studies have examined individual characteristics associated with climate change attitudes, fewer studies have considered the effects of environmental conditions on such attitudes. Here, we use two national samples of American adults to explore the impact of abnormal daily temperatures on levels of concern about climate change. We test the hypotheses that (1) abnormally warm temperatures, and (2) both abnormally warm and abnormally cool temperatures are associated with higher levels of concern. Using a generalized ordinal logit, we find that the quadratic form of deviation from mean temperature on the date of the survey is significantly associated with higher levels of concern, thus supporting the second hypothesis. We discuss several theoretical frameworks that may explain this result including availability bias, mental models, and implicit stimuli, and the implications for climate policy.
MULTIDETECTOR ROW COMPUTED TOMOGRAPHY AND ULTRASOUND CHARACTERISTICS OF CAUDAL VENA CAVA DUPLICATION IN DOGS
Authors: Bertolini Giovanna , Diana Alessia , Cipone Mario , Drigo Michele , Caldin Marco
Published: May 2014

Caudal vena cava duplication has been rarely reported in small animals. The purpose of this retrospective study was to describe characteristics of duplicated caudal vena cava in a large group of dogs. Computed tomography (CT) and ultrasound databases from two hospitals were searched for canine reports having the diagnosis “double caudal vena cava.” One observer reviewed CT images for 71 dogs and two observers reviewed ultrasound images for 21 dogs. In all CT cases, the duplication comprised two vessels that were bilaterally symmetrical and approximately the same calibre (similar to Type I complete duplication in humans). In all ultrasound cases, the duplicated caudal vena cava appeared as a distinct vessel running on the left side of the abdominal segment of the descending aorta and extending from the left common iliac vein to the left renal vein. The prevalence of caudal vena cava duplication was 0.46% for canine ultrasound studies and 2.08% for canine CT studies performed at these hospitals. Median body weight for affected dogs was significantly lower than that of unaffected dogs (P < 0.0001). Breeds with increased risk for duplicated caudal vena cava were Yorkshire Terrier (odds ratio [OR] = 6.41), Poodle (OR = 7.46), West Highland White Terrier (OR = 6.33), and Maltese (OR = 3.87). Presence of a duplicated caudal vena cava was significantly associated with presence of extrahepatic portosystemic shunt(s) (P < 0.004). While uncommon in dogs, caudal vena cava duplication should be differentiated from other vascular anomalies when planning surgeries and for avoiding misdiagnoses.
Integrating the herbicide imazapic and the fungal pathogen Pyrenophora semeniperda to control Bromus tectorum
Authors: Ehlert K A , Mangold J M , Engel R E
Published: May 2014

Bromus tectorum is a winter annual grass that affects rangeland in western North America. A glasshouse pot experiment was conducted that integrated imazapic application and inoculation of the soil‐borne fungal pathogen, Pyrenophora semeniperda, for the purpose of providing greater control of B. tectorum. We hypothesised that P. semeniperda inoculation would reduce B. tectorum emergence and integration of imazapic and P. semeniperda would result in a greater reduction in B. tectorum biomass and density compared with either treatment applied alone. This study revealed that P. semeniperda significantly reduced B. tectorum emergence and density and the responses were greatest for seed placed below the soil surface. Further, B. tectorum biomass was similar between imazapic and P. semeniperda treatments. This indicates that P. semeniperda could be applied in advance of B. tectorum germination and emergence. After emergence, imazapic application could reduce B. tectorum biomass and kill seedlings. A two‐pronged approach to controlling B. tectorum that combines P. semeniperda inoculation and post‐emergent imazapic application may provide a greater opportunity to limit invasion of this weed in rangeland of western North America. Future work should be directed towards the pathogen–plant relationship and how it relates to integrating biological control with traditional methods, towards the effect of varying P. semeniperda inoculum and imazapic rates and lastly, to how environmental conditions in the field may affect implementation and efficacy of this two‐pronged approach.
How “Partnership” Weakens Solidarity: Colombian GM Workers and the Limits of UAW Internationalism
Authors: Young Kevin , Sierra Becerra Diana C.
Published: May 2014

This article examines the ongoing U.S. solidarity campaign with the Association of Injured Workers and Ex‐Workers of General Motors Colmotores (ASOTRECOL), workers fired from the GM plant in Bogotá, Colombia, after suffering injuries on the assembly line. After reviewing some of the factors that facilitated the mobilization of community and rank‐and‐file activists, we discuss the refusal of the United Auto Workers (UAW) union leadership to support the campaign. While the UAW has sometimes engaged in solidarity campaigns with foreign workers, it has not supported ASOTRECOL. We argue that the primary reason is that doing so might jeopardize what UAW leaders consider to be their positive relationship with General Motors. U.S. activists' expectation that the UAW would support the cause strongly influenced their strategic orientation early on, further hindering the chances of success. We suggest that solidarity activists should take unions' bargaining relationships into account when devising strategy.
Complex B-splines and Hurwitz zeta functions
Authors: Forster B. , Garunkštis R. , Massopust P. , Steuding J.
Published: May 2014

We characterize nonempty open subsets of the complex plane where the sum $\zeta (s, \alpha )+ {e}^{\pm i\pi s} \hspace{0.167em} \zeta (s, 1- \alpha )$ of Hurwitz zeta functions has no zeros in $s$ for all $0\leq \alpha \leq 1$. This problem is motivated by the construction of fundamental cardinal splines of complex order $s$.
Relationship Between Built Environment, Physical Activity, Adiposity, and Health in Adults Aged 46–80 in Shanghai, China
Authors: Ying Zhang , Ning Liu Dong , Xin Liu
Published: May 2014

Background:

Seldom studies are about the relationship between built environment and physical activity, weight, and health outcome in meso- and microscales.

Methods:

1100 residents aged 46 to 80 were recruited from 80 neighborhoods of 13 selected communities of Shanghai, China. An analysis of the relationship between dependent variables (physical activity, Body Mass Index [BMI], overweight/obesity, weight, and health outcomes) and independent variables (involved a geographic-information-system-derived measure of built environment) was conducted with hierarchical linear models.

Results:

Street connectivity was positively associated with physical activity (P < .01). River proximity was inversely related with overweight/obesity (P = .0220). Parkland and square proximity have a significant relationship with physical activity (P = .0270, .0010), BMI (P = .0260, .0130), and overweight/obesity (P = .0020, .0470). Land-use mix was positively associated with physical activity (P < .01) and inversely associated with BMI (P = .0240) and overweight/obesity (P = .0440). Green and open spaces were positively related with BMI (P < .01) and health status (P < .01). For residential style, residents living in a village were more likely to have a lower BMI and overweight/obesity than those living in an urban old or newer residential building. The direct effect of square proximity is much stronger than the indirect effect on BMI through physical activity.

Conclusions:

The findings can help planners build more pedestrian-friendly communities. They are also useful for creating interventions that are sensitive to possible environmental barriers to physical activity in older adults.
Population Estimates of Meeting Strength Training and Aerobic Guidelines, by Gender and Cancer Survivorship Status: Findings From the Health Information National Trends Survey (HINTS)
Authors: Ottenbacher Allison , Yu Mandi , Moser Richard P. , Phillips Siobhan M. , Alfano Catherine , Perna Frank M.
Published: May 2014

Background:

Evidence is building that strength training may reduce complications associated with cancer such as fatigue, muscle wasting, and lymphedema, particularly among breast and prostate cancer survivors. Population estimates are available for rates of aerobic physical activity; however, data on strength training in this population are limited. The objective of this study was to identify rates of meeting public health recommendations for strength training and aerobic activity among cancer survivors and individuals with no cancer history.

Methods:

Data from the Health Information National Trends Survey (HINTS), Iteration 4 Cycle 1 and Cycle 2 were combined to conduct the analyses. Missing data were imputed, and weighted statistical analyses were conducted in SAS.

Results:

The proportion of individuals meeting both strength training and aerobic guidelines were low for both cancer survivors and those without a history of cancer. The odds of meeting strength training guidelines were significantly lower for women with a history of any cancer except breast, compared with women with no history of cancer (OR: 0.70, 95% CI: 0.51−0.96).

Conclusions:

More work needs to be done to understand why women with cancers other than breast, may be less inclined to engage in aerobic physical activity and strength training.
Mechanically detecting and avoiding the quantum fluctuations of a microwave field
Authors: Suh J. , Weinstein A. J. , Lei C. U. , Wollman E. E. , Steinke S. K. , Meystre P. , Clerk A. A. , Schwab K. C.
Published: May 2014

Avoiding back-action in quantum measurements

The very process of measuring a quantum system has an influence on the system through the process of back-action. Suh
et al.
used a back-action evasion scheme to monitor the motion of a miniature oscillator without influencing its motion (see the Perspective by Bouwmeester). The scheme should help in the understanding of the fundamental limits associated with measurement and will have practical implications in providing a low-temperature thermometer and a probe of extremely weak forces.

Science
, this issue p.
1262
Draft Genome Sequence of Acid-Tolerant Clostridium drakei SL1
T
, a Potential Chemical Producer through Syngas Fermentation
Authors: Jeong Yujin , Song Yoseb , Shin Hyeon Seok , Cho Byung-Kwan
Published: May 2014

Clostridium drakei
SL1
T
is a strictly anaerobic, H
2
-utilizing, and acid-tolerant acetogen isolated from an acidic sediment that is a potential platform for commodity chemical production from syngas fermentation. The draft genome sequence of this strain will enable determination of the acid resistance and autotrophic pathway of the acetogen.
Genome Sequence of a Novel Iflavirus from mRNA Sequencing of the Butterfly
Heliconius erato
Authors: Smith Gilbert , Macias-Muñoz Aide , Briscoe Adriana D.
Published: May 2014

Here, we report the genome sequence of a novel iflavirus strain recovered from the neotropical butterfly
Heliconius erato
. The coding DNA sequence (CDS) of the iflavirus genome was 8,895 nucleotides in length, encoding a polyprotein that was 2,965 amino acids long.
Draft Genome Sequence of Clostridium scatologenes ATCC 25775, a Chemolithoautotrophic Acetogenic Bacterium Producing 3-Methylindole and 4-Methylphenol
Authors: Song Yoseb , Jeong Yujin , Shin Hyeon Seok , Cho Byung-Kwan
Published: May 2014

Clostridium scatologenes
ATCC 25775 is a strictly anaerobic and chemolithoautotrophic acetogenic bacterium that converts syngas into multi-carbon compounds such as acetate, indole, 3-methylindole, and 4-methylphenol. Here we report the draft genome sequence of
C. scatologenes
ATCC 25775 (7.3 Mbp) to elucidate its metabolic pathway for syngas fermentation.
Complete Genome Sequence of Coprothermobacter proteolyticus DSM 5265
Authors: Alexiev Alexandra , Coil David A. , Badger Jonathan H. , Enticknap Julie , Ward Naomi , Robb Frank T. , Eisen Jonathan A.
Published: May 2014

Here we present the complete 1,424,912-bp genome sequence of
Coprothermobacter proteolyticus
DSM 5265, isolated from a thermophilic digester fermenting tannery wastes and cattle manure.
Trismus and diffuse polymyalgia: an unusual presentation of recurrent metastatic ovarian cancer
Authors: Benjamin Ramsis , Zhai Jing , Morgan Robert , Prakash Neal
Published: May 2014

A 22-year-old woman first presented in 2009 with abdominal distention. The diagnosis of stage IA right ovarian tumour was made by fertility-sparing surgery. In the subsequent years, the involvement of the left ovary and metastasis to the lungs prompted further surgical intervention and chemotherapy. By 2013, she experienced insidious, debilitating and diffuse musculoskeletal pain with trismus. Polymyositis or diffuse radiculitis was suspected. Imaging studies identified enhancing lesions in the thigh musculature, temporalis, parotid gland, pterygoid, masseter, tongue, cerebellum and leptomeninges. Biopsy of one of the thigh lesions confirmed the diagnosis of mucinous adenocarcinoma. She succumbed to the disease in November 2013. This case illustrates the aggressive nature of mucinous epithelial ovarian cancer and its resilience to conventional chemotherapy. On account of its high death rate, it is recommended that the epithelial–mesenchymal transition be researched and early therapy targeted at thek-rasoncogene initiated in spite of the tumour's lower initial staging.
Trilogy of foregut, midgut and hindgut atresias presenting in reverse order
Authors: Patel Ramnik V , Jackson Paul , De Coppi Paolo , Pierro Agostino
Published: May 2014

We present a case of triple gut atresias (foregut, midgut and hindgut) with multiple congenital anomalies presenting as imperforate anus. Abdominal radiography showed the double bubble sign. Upper gastrointestinal study through a nasogastric tube confirmed duodenal obstruction. Exploratory laparotomy, duodeno-duodenostomy for duodenal atresia and a left descending colostomy for anorectal malformation were performed. During extubation, the nasogastric tube came out and could not be reinserted by the anaesthetic team under laryngoscopic guidance. A chest radiograph showed the tube curled in the upper pouch. Bronchoscopy and oesophagoscopy confirmed oesophageal atresia (OA) with a distal tracheoesophageal fistula (TOF). The patient underwent right-sided extrapleural thoracotomy and division of the fistula with primary repair of OA uneventfully. Triple gut atresias presenting in reverse order with multiple anomalies is rare and passage of a nasogastric tube into the stomach in the presence of OA+TOF is exceptional. Alimentary tract obstruction should be corrected in proximal to distal direction.
Spinal angiolipoma manifesting with apoplexy
Authors: Ramdasi Raghvendra Vijayrao , KM Avinasha , Mahore Amit , Kawale Juhi
Published: May 2014

We report a 58-year-old man presenting with acute paraplegia. MRI showed a haematoma within a well-defined epidural lesion at C7-D1. Intraoperatively, organised epidural haematoma surrounded by tumour tissue was found. The final histopathology report was angiolipoma. The patient had dramatic recovery. Angiolipomas should be considered in the differential diagnosis of acute paraplegia when imaging shows well-circumscribed haematoma.
Behaviour change interventions to promote prescribing of generic drugs: a rapid evidence synthesis and systematic review
Authors: Moe-Byrne Thirimon , Chambers Duncan , Harden Melissa , McDaid Catriona
Published: May 2014

Objective

To summarise evidence on the effectiveness of behaviour change interventions to encourage prescribing of generic forms of prescription drugs where clinically appropriate in the UK National Health Service (NHS) and similar settings.

Design

Systematic review.

Search strategy

We conducted a rapid evidence synthesis in two stages: First, we searched databases, such as the Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews (CDSR) and Database of Abstracts of Reviews of Effects (DARE), for systematic reviews of interventions that reported outcomes related to utilisation of generic drugs. In the second stage, we searched several databases including MEDLINE and EMBASE to identify primary studies of any interventions not covered by systematic reviews.

Data extraction and quality assessment

Data were extracted into a standardised data extraction form. Standardised quality assessment tools were used to assess study quality. Two reviewers were involved in data extraction and quality assessment.

Results

10 reviews were included for the initial evidence synthesis, but most were of limited usefulness to our focused review question. One review evaluated the effect of prescribing policies using financial incentives and showed an increase in generic prescribing. Thirteen primary studies of other interventions were included for the rapid review. Two studies showed an increase in percentage of overall generic prescribing with an educational intervention; two studies showed an improvement in generic prescribing rates when physicians collaborated with pharmacists, though in one study this was not statistically significant; two US studies showed improvements in generic prescribing with electronic prescribing. Five out of seven studies showed positive results with multifaceted interventions.

Conclusions

The existing evidence remains insufficient to determine which behaviour change intervention or combination of interventions is most effective due to methodological weaknesses and conflicting results. Based on the evidence, financial incentives with educational intervention and audit/feedback look promising but decision-makers should take into account the practicality and costs of the interventions before implementation.
General practitioners’ use of absolute risk versus individual risk factors in cardiovascular disease prevention: an experimental study
Authors: Jansen Jesse , Bonner Carissa , McKinn Shannon , Irwig Les , Glasziou Paul , Doust Jenny , Teixeira-Pinto Armando , Hayen Andrew , Turner Robin , McCaffery Kirsten
Published: May 2014

Objective

To understand general practitioners’ (GPs) use of individual risk factors (blood pressure and cholesterol levels) versus absolute risk in cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk management decision-making.

Design

Randomised experiment. Absolute risk, systolic blood pressure (SBP), cholesterol ratio (total cholesterol/high-density lipoprotein (TC/HDL)) and age were systematically varied in hypothetical cases. High absolute risk was defined as 5-year risk of a cardiovascular event >15%, high blood pressure levels varied between SBP 147 and 179 mm Hg and high cholesterol (TC/HDL ratio) between 6.5 and 7.2 mmol/L.

Setting

4 GP conferences in Australia.

Participants

144 Australian GPs.

Outcomes

GPs indicated whether they would prescribe cholesterol and/or blood pressure lowering medication. Analyses involved logistic regression.

Results

For patients with high blood pressure: 93% (95% CI 86% to 96%) of high absolute risk patients and 83% (95% CI 76% to 88%) of lower absolute risk patients were prescribed blood pressure medication. Conversely, 30% (95% CI 25% to 36%) of lower blood pressure patients were prescribed blood pressure medication if absolute risk was high and 4% (95% CI 3% to 5%) if lower. 69% of high cholesterol/high absolute risk patients were prescribed cholesterol medication (95% CI 61% to 77%) versus 34% of high cholesterol/lower absolute risk patients (95% CI 28% to 41%). 36% of patients with lower cholesterol (95% CI 30% to 43%) were prescribed cholesterol medication if absolute risk was high versus 10% if lower (95% CI 8% to 13%).

Conclusions

GPs’ decision-making was more consistent with the management of individual risk factors than an absolute risk approach, especially when prescribing blood pressure medication. The results suggest medical treatment of lower risk patients (5-year risk of CVD event <15%) with mildly elevated blood pressure or cholesterol levels is likely to occur even when an absolute risk assessment is specifically provided. The results indicate a need for improving uptake of absolute risk guidelines and GP understanding of the rationale for using absolute risk.
Why do the luminescence maxima of isostructural palladium(II) and platinum(II) complexes shift in opposite directions?
Authors: Poirier Stéphanie , Guionneau Philippe , Luneau Dominique , Reber Christian
Published: May 2014

Temperature-dependent luminescence spectra for a series of palladium(II) and platinum(II) complexes with thiocyanate, halide, and dithiocarbamate ligands are presented. All complexes show broad d−d luminescence. Crystal structures are reported for (n-Bu4N)2[Pt(SCN)4] and (n-Bu4N)2[Pd(SCN)4] at 150 and 250 K, for the palladium(II) dimethyldithiocarbamate (MeDTC) complex [Pd(MeDTC)2] at 150 and 300 K, and for its platinum(II) analog at 100 and 300 K. The structures of (n-Bu4N)2[Pt(SCN)4], (n-Bu4N)2[Pd(SCN)4], and [Pt(MeDTC)2] show similar volume increases with temperature. In contrast, the luminescence band maxima of palladium(II) and platinum(II) complexes have opposite shifts with increasing temperature. (n-Bu4N)2[Pd(SCN)4] shows a shift of −2.0 cm−1/K and [Pd(MeDTC)2] a shift of −1.1 cm−1/K, while both platinum(II) complexes have a positive shift of +1.6 cm−1/K. Calculated luminescence spectra with adjustable parameters reproduce the experimental spectra. The variation of their parameters with temperature shows the origin of different trends. Temperature-dependent luminescence spectra of [Pd(SCN)4]2− and [Pt(SCN)4]2− in polymer films of polyvinyl alcohol were measured. No clearcut shifts of maxima were observed for either compound, and their spectra are broader due to the disordered environment.
A study on the flexural behavior of lap-spliced cast-in-place joints under static loading in ultra-high performance concrete bridge deck slabs
Authors: Hwang Hoonhee , Park Sung Yong
Published: May 2014

In this paper, the results of basic tests conducted to evaluate the flexural behavior of lap-spliced joints that exploit the remarkable bonding performance of ultra-high performance concrete (UHPC) are presented. The effects of varying the lap-spliced length and joint length on the flexural behavior of the test members were examined. The failure pattern, load–deflection relationship, and load–strain relationship obtained by the static loading test were then analyzed with respect to the details of the joints. The results suggest lower bounds for the major test variables. A modified model, which considers the bonding performance of UHPC at the joint interface and the yield behavior of the reinforcement, is suggested on the basis of analytical models proposed for UHPC sections in previous studies. The corresponding results for this model are then compared with the test results.
Implementation of Membership Function using Spatial Wave-Function Switched FETs
Authors: Karmakar Supriya , Chandy John A , Jain Faquir C.
Published: May 2014

Spatial wave-function switched field effect transistor (SWSFET) switches the current flow between different channels inside the FET based on the applied voltage in its gate terminal. SWSFET can be used to implement multi-valued logic circuit with less number of circuit elements. Recently we presented unipolar inverter circuit using SWSFET. In this paper we develop a circuit model of SWSFET based on BSIM 3.2.0 and BSIM 3.2.4 and implement membership function using that circuit model of SWSFET.

The spatial wave-function switched field effect transistor (SWSFET) has two or three low band-gap quantum well channels inside the substrate of the semiconductor. Applied voltage at the gate region of the SWSFET, switches the charge carrier concentration in different channels from source to drain region. A circuit model of SWSFET is developed in BSIM 3.2.0. Membership function is implemented using the circuit model of the SWSFET. Membership function implementation using less number of SWSFET will reduce the device count in future analog-to-digital converter (ADC) and digital-to-analog converter (DAC) circuits.
Lattice gauge theory and the large N reduction
Authors: Eguchi Tohru
Published: May 2014

I recall my encounter with Ken Wilson's lattice gauge theory and review the present status of the idea of large N reduction.
BEHAVIOR OF LONG-TERM YIELDS IN A LÉVY TERM STRUCTURE
Authors: BIAGINI FRANCESCA , HÄRTEL MAXIMILIAN
Published: May 2014

We study the behavior of the long-term yield in a HJM setting for forward rates driven by Lévy processes. The long-term rates are investigated by examining continuously compounded spot rate yields with maturity going to infinity. In this paper, we generalize the model of Karoui et al. (1997) by using Lévy processes instead of Brownian motions as driving processes of the forward rate dynamics, and analyze the behavior of the long-term yield under certain conditions which encompass the asymptotic behavior of the interest rate model's volatility function as well as the variation of the paths of the Lévy process. One of the main results is that the long-term volatility has to vanish except in the case of a Lévy process with only negative jumps and paths of finite variation serving as random driver. Furthermore, we study the required asymptotic behavior of the volatility function so that the long-term drift exists.
A SPREAD-RETURN MEAN-REVERTING MODEL FOR CREDIT SPREAD DYNAMICS
Authors: O'DONOGHUE BRENDAN , PEACOCK MATTHEW , LEE JACKY , CAPRIOTTI LUCA
Published: May 2014

In this paper, we propose a novel, analytically tractable, one-factor stochastic model for the dynamics of credit default swap (CDS) spreads and their returns, which we refer to as the spread-return mean-reverting (SRMR) model. The SRMR model can be seen as a hybrid of the Black–Karasinski model on spreads and the Ornstein–Uhlenbeck model on spread returns, and is able to capture empirically observed properties of CDS spreads and returns, including spread mean-reversion, heavy tails of the return distribution, and return autocorrelations. Although developed for modeling CDS spreads, the SRMR model has applications for many other stochastic processes with similar empirical properties, including more general rate processes.
PRICING EQUATIONS IN JUMP-TO-DEFAULT MODELS
Authors: DYRSSEN HANNAH , EKSTRÖM ERIK , TYSK JOHAN
Published: May 2014

We study pricing equations in jump-to-default models, and we provide conditions under which the option price is the unique classical solution, with a special focus on boundary conditions. In particular, we find precise conditions ensuring that the option price at the default boundary coincides with the recovery payment. We also study spatial convexity of the option price, and we explore the connection between preservation of convexity and parameter monotonicity.
OPTION PRICING USING A REGIME SWITCHING STOCHASTIC DISCOUNT FACTOR
Authors: ELLIOTT ROBERT J. , HAMADA AHMED S.
Published: May 2014

The paper discusses the pricing of derivatives using a stochastic discount factor modeled as a regime switching geometric Brownian motion. The regime switching is driven by a continuous time hidden Markov chain representing changes in the economy. The stochastic discount factor enables to define a risk neutral measure. We model the stock price as discounted future dividends driven by the same continuous time Markov chain. The stochastic discount factor is used to price European style options under the historical probability measure. The introduction of occupation times of the Markov chain and the corresponding conditional characteristic function allows the evaluation of the expected value of European type claims. The option price is given as a semi-analytical form using the Fourier transform.
Measurement of top quark properties at the Tevatron and LHC
Authors: Margaroli Fabrizio ,   (On behalf of the CDF, D0, CMS, ATLAS collaborations)
Published: May 2014

Almost two decades after its discovery at Fermilab's Tevatron collider experiments, the top quark is still under the spotlight due to its connections to some of the most interesting puzzles in the Standard Model. The Tevatron has been shut down two years ago, yet some interesting results are coming out of the CDF and D0 collaborations. The LHC collider at CERN produced two orders of magnitude more top quarks than Tevatron's, thus giving birth to a new era for top quark physics. While the LHC is also down at the time of this writing, many top quark physics results are being extracted out of the 7 TeV and 8 TeV proton proton collisions by the ATLAS and CMS collaborations, and many more are expected to appear before the LHC will be turned on again sometime in 2015. These proceedings cover a selection of recent results produced by the Tevatron and LHC experiments.
Recent results from lattice QCD
Authors: Liu Chuan
Published: May 2014

Recent Lattice QCD results are reviewed with an emphasis on spectroscopic results concerning the charm quark. It is demonstrated that, with accurate computations from lattice QCD in recent years that can be compared with the existing or upcoming experiments, stringent test of the Standard Model can be performed which will greatly sharpen our knowledge on the strong interaction.
Search for fermionic Higgs boson decays in pp collisions at the ATLAS and CMS experiments
Authors: Madar Romain ,   (On behalf of the ATLAS and CMS Collaborations)
Published: May 2014

The newly discovered boson was only observed in diboson final states. The measurement of the fermionic decay modes of this new particle is essential to establish its compatibility with the Standard Model Higgs boson. The two main final states accessible at the LHC are the decay into pairs of b quarks and τ leptons, both of which are experimentally challenging. In some cases, the exploitation of specific Higgs boson production modes allows to significantly increase the experimental sensitivity. One can also extend the search by looking for di-muon final states. This article gives an overview of the Higgs boson searches in these three fermionic final states at the ATLAS and CMS experiments, focusing on the most recent developments and results.
Search for muon to electron conversion at J-PARC: COMET experiment
Authors: Yuan Y. ,   (On behalf of the COMET collaboration)
Published: May 2014

The COherent Muon to Electron Transition (COMET) experiment aims to search for the charged-lepton-flavor-violating process through measure muon to electron conversion in a muonic atom to very high sensitivity of 2.6 × 10-17. A two-stage approach in order to realize the experiment has been taken and the first-stage (COMET Phase-I) has been approved by KEK.
Automation and interfaces for chemistry and biochemistry in digital microfluidics
Authors: Shah Gaurav J. , Tata Uday , van Dam R. Michael
Published: May 2014

Digital microfluidics (DMF) is an emerging technology for manipulation of picoliter to microliter droplets with a wide variety of applications in the fields of chemistry and biochemistry. We review recent developments in input and output interfaces to DMF chips and advances in automation of on-chip processes that have enabled the reliability and ease of use of these devices to reach new heights.
Affine long term yield curves: An application of the Ramsey rule with progressive utility
Authors: El Karoui Nicole , Hillairet Caroline , Mrad Mohamed
Published: May 2014

The purpose of this paper relies on the study of long-term affine yield curves modeling. It is inspired by the Ramsey rule of the economic literature, that links discount rate and marginal utility of aggregate optimal consumption. For such a long maturity modelization, the possibility of adjusting preferences to new economic information is crucial, justifying the use of progressive utility. This paper studies, in a framework with affine factors, the yield curve given from the Ramsey rule. It first characterizes consistent progressive utility of investment and consumption, given the optimal wealth and consumption processes. A special attention is paid to utilities associated with linear optimal processes with respect to their initial conditions, which is for example the case of power progressive utilities. Those utilities are the basis point to construct other progressive utilities generating non linear optimal processes but leading yet to still tractable computations. This is of particular interest to study the impact of initial wealth on yield curves.
The framework of systemic risk related to contagion, recovery rate and capital requirement in an interbank network
Authors: Ren Xuemin , Yuan George X. , Jiang Lishang
Published: May 2014

In this paper, by using the "clearing payment concept" initially introduced by Eisenberg and Noe (2001, Systemic Risk in Financial Systems. Management Science, 47(2), 236–249), under general framework of financial system (network) in an interbank network, we first discuss the mechanics of systemic risk's contagions related to assets' recovery rate, and capital requirement. Then under the general regularity condition for the financial network, we discuss some new results for the existence, uniqueness, and continuity results which could be regarded as the fundamental supporting for the systemic risk measurement in terms of numerical analysis with simulations in the practice.
Monotone schemes for fully nonlinear parabolic path dependent PDEs
Authors: Zhang Jianfeng , Zhuo Jia
Published: May 2014

In this paper, we extend the results of the seminal work Barles and Souganidis (1991) to path dependent case. Based on the viscosity theory of path dependent PDEs, developed by Ekren et al. (2012a, 2012b, 2014a and 2014b), we show that a monotone scheme converges to the unique viscosity solution of the (fully nonlinear) parabolic path dependent PDE. An example of such monotone scheme is proposed. Moreover, in the case that the solution is smooth enough, we obtain the rate of convergence of our scheme.
A methodology for allocating allowance for loan and lease losses (ALLL) under new regulatory environment
Authors: Yang Yimin , Du Fang , Zhou Weixin
Published: May 2014

This paper establishes a simple framework for the calculation of expected loss-based Allowance for Loan and Lease Losses (ALLL) required by new regulations. It can be applied to both the expected lifetime loss and the expected loss over a short period, even when the data is less desirable. Its potential applications include loss benchmarking, loan growth strategy, sensitivity test, Comprehensive Capital Analysis and Review (CCAR) stress testing and scenario testing.
Assessment of new protective treatments for porous limestone combining water-repellency and anti-colonization properties
Authors: Eyssautier-Chuine Stéphanie , Gommeaux Maxime , Moreau Claire , Thomachot-Schneider Céline , Fronteau Gilles , Pleck Jessica , Kartheuser Benoit
Published: May 2014

Water is known to be the main deteriorating agent of building geomaterials. Owing to the presence of water, the alteration phenomena observed particularly on limestones are transportation of soluble salts, dissolution of calcite and development of micro-organisms. In restoration works, several chemical treatments can be used, such as biocides to remove existing biofouling and water-repellents to prevent the ingress of water and its deteriorating effects. The aim here was to combine these two properties in one treatment that could be applied at the end of the restoration work and to develop treatments based on natural products and that are safer for the users and the environment. Products with water-repellent and/or anti-colonization properties were developed and tested on a bioclastic limestone both in laboratory and outdoor conditions. They were compared with commercial water-repellents and a preventive anti-colonization treatment. Samples were exposed for 2 years in a forest environment, where the hydrophobicity and the colonization were evaluated every 6 months. In the laboratory, anti-colonization effects were determined through algae growth measurements. The product that confirmed an efficient hydrophobicity and anti-colonization effect will be applied on a restored site to test it under real conditions.
Preliminary modelling of the saturation of a full-sized clay and concrete shaft seal
Authors: Priyanto D. G. , Dixon D. A. , Kim C.-S. , Korkeakoski P. , Villagran J. E.
Published: May 2014

A shaft seal was installed at the intersection of the 5 m-diameter access shaft of the Atomic Energy of Canada Limited's Underground Research Laboratory with a major, moderately dipping fracture zone (FZ) to limit the mixing of the saline groundwater at the zone below the FZ with freshwater at the zone above the FZ. The shaft seal consists of 6 m-thick clay-based material that is sandwiched between 3 m-thick upper and lower concrete components, and its centre is located at
c.
273 m depth below the surface. This paper presents the results of preliminary finite element analyses using 2D-axisymetric and 3D geometries simulating the saturation of the shaft seal. The components in the analyses include the clay, concrete, intact rock and FZ. Of particular interest are the field-observed differences in the hydraulic pressures above and below the shaft seal. The results of the numerical analyses were compared with the 3-year monitoring data. The results of the numerical models showed that the decrease in the pressure difference indicates that there was flow path that connects the zones above and below the shaft seal. A preliminary long-term estimation of the shaft seal hydraulic response (up to 1000 years) was done based on the hydraulic pressure and excavation volume data, combined with the assumptions that that the groundwater level will eventually recover to the initial conditions.