Search for lepton flavor violation in upsilon decays

In this Letter, we describe a search for lepton flavor violation (LFV) in the bottomonium system. We search for leptonic decays Upsilon(nS)-->mutau (n=1, 2, and 3) using the data collected with the CLEO III detector. We identify the tau lepton using its leptonic decay nu_{tau}nu[over ]_{e}e and utilize multidimensional likelihood fitting with probability density function shapes measured from independent data samples. We report our estimates of 95% C.L. upper limits on LFV branching fractions of Upsilon mesons. We interpret our results in terms of the exclusion plot for the energy scale of a hypothetical new interaction versus its effective LFV coupling in the framework of effective field theory.

Paediatric SpRs' experiences of breaking bad news

AIMS

To ascertain the level of support and training available to paediatric specialist registrars (SpRs) in breaking bad news and their self-reported confidence in this task.

STUDY DESIGN

A questionnaire-based survey.

PARTICIPANTS

Paediatric SpRs working in North Thames region.

METHODS

Specialist registrars (n = 206) were sent a questionnaire relating to the level of support and training available to them in breaking bad news and their attitudes to this task. A repeat questionnaire was sent out 2 weeks later.

RESULTS

The response rate was 54.9%. The study sample included 78 females and 34 males. The median year of qualification was 1995 [interquartile range (IQR) 1993-1997] and the median year of Calman training was Year 3 (IQR 2-4). Only 15.9% of participants had guidelines where they worked and 91.2% had received training in breaking bad news. Median self-perceived confidence in breaking bad news was rated as 4 out of 5. Only 21.2% of all respondents had both disclosed a diagnosis of Down syndrome and received feedback on their performance from their seniors. Few SpRs were able to adhere to all evidence-based recommendations for breaking bad news.

DISCUSSION

Most SpRs had received training in breaking bad news and self-reported confidence in this skill was high, although their hands-on experience was limited. Recent research shows, however, that parental dissatisfaction with the way in which bad news is broken remains high. The potential discrepancy between self-reported confidence and actual competence casts doubt on the value of self-evaluation.

Observation of Upsilon(3S)-->tau+tau- and tests of lepton universality in Upsilon decays

Using data collected with the CLEO III detector at the CESR e+e- collider, we report on a first observation of the decay Upsilon(3S)-->tau+tau-, and precisely measure the ratio of branching fractions of Upsilon(nS), n=1, 2, 3, to tau+tau- and mu+mu- final states, finding agreement with expectations from lepton universality. We derive absolute branching fractions for these decays, and also set a limit on the influence of a low mass CP-odd Higgs boson in the decay of the Upsilon(1S).

[Hearing in a geriatric perspective]

To assess whether hearing rehabilitation of older people can be improved by co-operation between the audiology and geriatric departments and the home service, 139 old and frail audiological patients were allocated to three groups with three different fitting procedures: 1) conventional fitting including verification of acoustical gain in the patient's ear; 2) home-fitting by hearing therapists, and 3) home-fitting by a specially trained geriatric nursing assistant, the home help also being present. Outcome was assessed by the ordinary questionnaire mailed to hearing aids users three to four months after fitting and by a geriatric evaluation procedure. The response rate in the conventionally fitted group was highly unsatisfactory (36%) and too small for further data-analysis. In the educational group a tendency was found towards better manipulation skills and significantly higher hearing aid use. However, the response rate was lower than in the geriatric group (71% compared to 81%), and no knowledge of hearing aid use was registered in the home service by this procedure. In the geriatric group a correlation was found between practical ability and use and satisfaction with the hearing aid. However, two thirds of the group were dependent on lasting help for the handling of the aid. Most patients in this group were already known by the hospital and home service, and the individual home help showed an interest in learning about hearing aid use. Home fitting by a joint audiological and geriatric effort in collaboration with the home help has proven feasible and valuable to both patient and home help. Extended co-operation is recommended between the health care and the social sector concerning hearing aid use.

[The geriatric clinical picture in a department of internal medicine]

In order to assess the proportion of geriatric patients in a medical department, all of the inpatients admitted to the Medical Department of Hørsholm Hospital during the period 19.3.1987-15.4.1987 were assessed in view of the geriatric clinical picture. The criteria for assessment as a geriatric patient were established in advance and included: Presence of several medical problems inhibition of functions and social problems and an estimated need for prolonged hospitalization to solve these problems, including rehabilitation. Out of 191 inpatients, 15 (8%) were considered to be geriatric patients. These 8% were all aged 60 years or more, were hospitalized for an average of 23 days and used 21% of the total number of bed days. The remaining patients aged more than 60 years were hospitalized for an average of nine days and comprised 47% of the total number of inpatients and used 49% of the bed days. The geriatric patients differed, in addition, from the other patients aged over 60 years in that 85% compared with 58% were readmitted within a period of two years. No difference in the mortality was observed during a period of two years. This investigation supports previous suppositions about the proportion of geriatric patients and indicates that assessment as to whether a geriatric patient is concerned or not may be made already during the first 24 hours in hospital.