Strange matter prospects within the string-flip model

In this contribution we extend the recently developed two-flavor quark-matter string-flip model by including strange quarks. We discuss implications for compact stars.Comment: 4 pages, 4 figures, proceedings to SQM201

Superconductivity and Local Inversion-Symmetry Breaking

Inversion and time reversal are essential symmetries for the structure of Cooper pairs in superconductors. The loss of one or both leads to modifications to this structure and can change the properties of the superconducting phases in profound ways. Lacking inversion, superconductivity in noncentrosymmetric materials has become an important topic, in particular, in the context of topological superconductivity as well as unusual magnetic and magneto-electric properties. Recently, crystal structures with local, but not global inversion-symmetry breaking have attracted attention, as superconductivity can exhibit phenomena not naively expected in centrosymmetric materials. After introducing the concept of locally noncentrosymmetric crystals and different material realizations, we discuss consequences of such local symmetry breaking on the classification, the expected and, in parts, already observed phenomenology of unconventional superconductivity, and possible topological superconducting phases.Comment: 21 pages, 5 figures. Submitted to Annual Reviews of Condensed Matter Physic

Major liver resection for hepatocellular carcinoma in the morbidly obese: A proposed strategy to improve outcome

<p>Abstract</p> <p>Background</p> <p>Morbid obesity strongly predicts morbidity and mortality in surgical patients. However, obesity's impact on outcome after major liver resection is unknown.</p> <p>Case presentation</p> <p>We describe the management of a large hepatocellular carcinoma in a morbidly obese patient (body mass index >50 kg/m²). Additionally, we propose a strategy for reducing postoperative complications and improving outcome after major liver resection.</p> <p>Conclusion</p> <p>To our knowledge, this is the first report of major liver resection in a morbidly obese patient with hepatocellular carcinoma. The approach we used could make this operation nearly as safe in obese patients as it is in their normal-weight counterparts.</p

Study of protein dynamics in solution by measurement of 13 C α - 13 CO NOE and 13 CO longitudinal relaxation

13 C α - 13 CO homonuclear NOE and 13 CO T 1 relaxation were measured for a 20 kDa protein using tripleresonance pulse sequences. The experiments were sufficiently sensitive to obtain statistically significant differences in relaxation parameters over the molecule. The 13 C α - 13 CO cross-relaxation rate, obtained from these data, is directly proportional to an order parameter describing local motion and it is largely independent of the local correlation time. It is therefore a relatively straightforward observable for the identification of local dynamics.Peer Reviewedhttp://deepblue.lib.umich.edu/bitstream/2027.42/43052/1/10858_2004_Article_BF00203826.pd

Trial of Ultrasound guided carpal tunnel release versus Traditional Open Release (TUTOR)

BACKGROUND: Carpal tunnel release (CTR) is a surgical treatment option for patients with carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) symptoms that are unresponsive to conservative treatment. Most patients experience symptomatic relief after CTR regardless of the surgical technique. However, direct comparisons of the safety and effectiveness between CTR surgical techniques are limited. The purpose of this randomized controlled trial is to compare the safety and effectiveness of CTR with ultrasound guidance (CTR-US) versus mini-open CTR (mOCTR) in subjects with symptomatic CTS. DESIGN AND METHODS: TUTOR (Trial of Ultrasound guided CTR versus Traditional Open Release) is a randomized controlled trial in which 120 subjects at up to 12 sites in the United States will be randomized (2:1) to receive CTR-US or mOCTR. The primary endpoint of the study is the percentage of patients who return to normal daily activities within 3 days of the procedure. Secondary endpoints of the study are median time to return to normal daily activities, percentage of patients who return to work within 3 days of the procedure, median time to return to work, Boston Carpal Tunnel Questionnaire Symptom Severity Scale (BCTQ-SSS) change score at 3 months, BCTQ Functional Status Scale (BCTQ-FSS) change score at 3 months, Numeric Pain Scale change score at 3 months, EuroQoL-5 Dimension 5-Level (EQ-5D-5L) change score at 3 months, and the incidence of device- or procedure-related adverse events at 3 months. Patient follow-up in this trial will continue for 1 year. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION: This study was approved by a central institutional review board and ongoing trial oversight will be provided by a data safety monitoring board (DSMB). The authors intend to report the results of this trial at medical conferences and peer-reviewed journals. The outcomes of TUTOR will have important clinical and economic implications for all stakeholders involved in treating patients with CTS. STUDY REGISTRATION: ClinicalTrials.gov (https://clinicaltrials.gov): NCT05405218. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: 1

Holomorphic Hartree-Fock Theory: The Nature of Two-Electron Problems.

We explore the existence and behavior of holomorphic restricted Hartree-Fock (h-RHF) solutions for two-electron problems. Through algebraic geometry, the exact number of solutions with n basis functions is rigorously identified as 1/2(3n - 1), proving that states must exist for all molecular geometries. A detailed study on the h-RHF states of HZ (STO-3G) then demonstrates both the conservation of holomorphic solutions as geometry or atomic charges are varied and the emergence of complex h-RHF solutions at coalescence points. Using catastrophe theory, the nature of these coalescence points is described, highlighting the influence of molecular symmetry. The h-RHF states of HHeH2+ and HHeH (STO-3G) are then compared, illustrating the isomorphism between systems with two electrons and two electron holes. Finally, we explore the h-RHF states of ethene (STO-3G) by considering the π electrons as a two-electron problem and employ NOCI to identify a crossing of the lowest energy singlet and triplet states at the perpendicular geometry

Adaptation to Climate Change in the Transport Sector

In this study, we review the literature on climate change adaptation measures in the transport sector. Many of the measures proposed are rather conceptual and far from concrete, probably due to the fact that climate change effects on transport are either unknown or highly uncertain. Given the limited information on the potential magnitude of climate damages and the various uncertainties involved, postponement of adaptation investments may well be the most sensible strategy at the moment, especially when investments are substantial and irreversible. Furthermore, monitoring of relevant climatic changes and ongoing research into climate change effects are important elements of a pro-active adaptation strategy. Irreversible decisions, such as the ones on spatial organization, likely require a more active strategy, e.g. in the form of making spatial reservations. We further discuss the interdependency between optimal mitigation and adaptation, an issue that is often overlooked in the literature. Finally, most operators and governmental bodies are not used to dealing with risk and uncertainty, and generally base their decisions on single risk values only, likely leading to under- or overinvestment. We discuss several relevant topics in this area and highlight methods that can be used to better deal with these issues. © 2012 Copyright Taylor and Francis Group, LLC