Order-alpha_s^2 corrections to one-particle inclusive processes in DIS

We analyze the order-$\alpha_s^2$ QCD corrections to semi-inclusive deep inelastic scattering and present results for processes initiated by a gluon. We focus in the most singular pieces of these corrections in order to obtain the hitherto unknown NLO evolution kernels relevant for the non homogeneous QCD scale dependence of these cross sections, and to check explicitly factorization at this order. In so doing we discuss the prescription of overlapping singularities in more than one variable.Comment: 16 pages, 9 eps figures. Uses revtex4 and feynm

Symptom-onset-to-balloon time and mortality in patients with acute myocardial infarction treated by primary angioplasty

AbstractObjectivesThe aim of the study was to evaluate the relationship between symptom-onset-to-balloon time and one-year mortality in patients with ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) treated by primary angioplasty.BackgroundDespite the prognostic implications demonstrated in patients with STEMI treated with thrombolysis, the impact of time-delay on prognosis in patients undergoing primary angioplasty has yet to be established.MethodsOur study population consisted of 1,791 patients with STEMI treated by primary angioplasty from 1994 to 2001. All clinical, angiographic and follow-up data were collected. Subanalyses were conducted according to patient risk profile at presentation and preprocedural Thrombolysis In Myocardial Infarction (TIMI) flow.ResultsA total of 103 patients (5.8%) had died at one year. Symptom-onset-to-balloon time was significantly associated with the rate of postprocedural TIMI 3 flow (p = 0.012), myocardial blush grade (p = 0.033), and one-year mortality (p = 0.02). A stronger linear association between symptom-onset-to-balloon time and one-year mortality was observed in non-low-risk patients (p = 0.006) and those with preprocedural TIMI flow 0 to 1 (p = 0.013). No relationship was found between door-to-balloon time and mortality. At multivariate analysis, a symptom-onset-to-balloon time >4 h was identified as an independent predictor of one-year mortality (p < 0.05).ConclusionsThis study shows that, in patients with STEMI treated by primary angioplasty, symptom-onset-to-balloon time, but not door-to-balloon time, is related to mortality, particularly in non–low-risk patients and in the absence of preprocedural anterograde flow. Furthermore, a symptom-onset-to-balloon time >4 h was identified as independent predictor of one-year mortality

PathOrganic – Risks and Recommendations Regarding Human Pathogens in Organic Vegetable Production Chains

PathOrganic assesses risks associated with the consumption of fresh and minimally processed vegetables due to the prevalence of bacterial human pathogens in plant produce. The project evaluates whether organic production poses a risk on food safety, taking into consideration sources of pathogen transmission (e.g. animal manure). The project also explores whether organic versus conventional production practices may reduce the risk of pathogen manifestation. In Europe, vegetable-linked outbreaks are not well investigated. A conceptual model together with novel sampling strategies and specifically adjusted methods provides the basis for large-scale surveys of organically grown plant produce in five European countries. Critical control points are determined and evaluated and factors contributing to a food safety problem are analyzed in greenhouse and field experiments. The project aims at developing a quantitative risk assessment model and at formulating recommendations for improving food safety in organic vegetable production

Invasive left ventricle pressure-volume analysis: overview and practical clinical implications

Ventricular pressure-volume (PV) analysis is the reference method for the study of cardiac mechanics. Advances in calibration algorithms and measuring techniques brought new perspectives for its application in different research and clinical settings. Simultaneous PV measurement in the heart chambers offers unique insights into mechanical cardiac efficiency. Beat to beat invasive PV monitoring can be instrumental in the understanding and management of heart failure, valvular heart disease, and mechanical cardiac support. This review focuses on intra cardiac left ventricular PV analysis principles, interpretation of signals, and potential clinical applications

Metal enrichment processes

There are many processes that can transport gas from the galaxies to their environment and enrich the environment in this way with metals. These metal enrichment processes have a large influence on the evolution of both the galaxies and their environment. Various processes can contribute to the gas transfer: ram-pressure stripping, galactic winds, AGN outflows, galaxy-galaxy interactions and others. We review their observational evidence, corresponding simulations, their efficiencies, and their time scales as far as they are known to date. It seems that all processes can contribute to the enrichment. There is not a single process that always dominates the enrichment, because the efficiencies of the processes vary strongly with galaxy and environmental properties.Comment: 18 pages, 8 figures, accepted for publication in Space Science Reviews, special issue "Clusters of galaxies: beyond the thermal view", Editor J.S. Kaastra, Chapter 17; work done by an international team at the International Space Science Institute (ISSI), Bern, organised by J.S. Kaastra, A.M. Bykov, S. Schindler & J.A.M. Bleeke

Design and rationale of haemodynamic guidance with CardioMEMS in patients with a left ventricular assist device: the HEMO-VAD pilot study

AimsWe aim to study the feasibility and clinical value of pulmonary artery pressure monitoring with the CardioMEMS™device in order to optimize and guide treatment in patients with a HeartMate3left ventricular assist device (LVAD).Methods and resultsIn this single-centre, prospective pilot study, we will include10consecutive patients with New YorkHeart Association Class IIIb or IV with Interagency Registry for Mechanically Assisted Circulatory Support Classes2–5scheduledfor implantation of a HeartMate3LVAD. Prior to LVAD implantation, patients will receive a CardioMEMS sensor, for dailypulmonary pressure readings. The haemodynamic information provided by the CardioMEMS will be used to improvehaemodynamic status prior to LVAD surgery and optimize the timing of LVAD implantation. Post-LVAD implantation, thehaemodynamic changes will be assessed for additive value in detecting potential complications in an earlier stage (bleedingand tamponade). During the outpatient clinic phase, we will assess whether the haemodynamic feedback can optimize pumpsettings, detect potential complications, and further tailor the clinical management of these patients.ConclusionsThe HEMO-VAD study is thefirst prospective pilot study to explore the safety and feasibility of usingCardioMEMS for optimization of LVAD therapy with additional (remote) haemodynamic information