Constraints on the R-charges of Free Bound States from the R\"omelsberger Index

The R\"omelsberger index on S^3 x R serves as a powerful test for conjectured dualities, relying on the claim that this object is an RG-invariant. In this work we support this claim by showing that the singularities suggested by Witten of "states moving in from infinity" are excluded on S^3 x R. In addition, we provide an application of the R\"omelsberger index, in the form of a constraint on the RG flow of supersymmetric theories. The constraint, which applies for asymptotically free theories with unbroken supersymmetry and non-anomalous R-symmetry, is the following: if the R-charges of the chiral multiplets in the UV theory are 0<q_i<2 and the IR theory can be described as a free theory of chiral bound states, then the R-charges of these bound states, ~q_j, are constrained such that 0<~q_j<2. We thus provide a proof of a weak version of a conjecture proposed by Intriligator. We mention some applications of this result.Comment: 22 page

Disparities in multiple chronic conditions within populations

Disadvantaged populations are disproportionately affected by multiple chronic conditions (MCCs), yet few studies examine the prevalence, outcomes, or effectiveness of MCC interventions in minority and socioeconomically deprived individuals and populations. An important first step in understanding MCCs, not only in such diverse population groups, but also in the general population as a whole, is to broaden the definition and scope of MCC measurement, to encompass more than the simple additive effect of clinical conditions, and to include a wide range of health and health-related aspects that interact and make up the full spectrum of multimorbidity. Only with the use of a comprehensive MCC measurement can some of the differences between the disadvantaged populations be adequately detected. Better understanding of the disparities in access to high quality health and healthcare for persons with MCCs can help guide policy and practice aimed at the prevention and amelioration of the effects of MCCs among disadvantaged groups. Indeed, disparity in MCC populations has been identified as a key goal of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’ Strategic Framework on MCCs. The aim of the present paper is to describe current knowledge on disparities in the population of persons with MCCs and to guide efforts for the prevention and management of MCCs in disadvantaged populations.Journal of Comorbidity 2013;3(2):45–5

Equality of Opportunity versus Sufficiency of Capabilities in Healthcare

The paper compares three accounts of distributive justice in health (and more specifically healthcare). I discuss two egalitarian accounts—Daniels's fair equality of opportunity for health and Segall's luck-egalitarian equity in health—and contrast them with a sufficientarian account based on sufficiency of capabilities. The discussion highlights some important theoretical differences and similarities among the three accounts. The focus, however, is on the practical implications of each account regarding four hypothetical cases (synthesized growth hormone for short children, non-therapeutic abortion, forms of compensation for paraplegics, and reconstructive breast surgery versus plastic surgery). My aim is to show that by replacing egalitarian concerns with sufficiency, and by focusing on capabilities (versus opportunities), it is possible to provide a more plausible account of justice in healthcare