Strange-quark contributions to parity-violating asymmetries in the forward g0 electron-proton scattering experiment

We have measured parity-violating asymmetries in elastic electron-proton scattering over the range of momentum transfers 0.12 < or =Q2 < or =1.0 GeV2. These asymmetries, arising from interference of the electromagnetic and neutral weak interactions, are sensitive to strange-quark contributions to the currents of the proton. The measurements were made at Jefferson Laboratory using a toroidal spectrometer to detect the recoiling protons from a liquid hydrogen target. The results indicate nonzero, Q2 dependent, strange-quark contributions and provide new information beyond that obtained in previous experiments.

Precision measurement of the weak mixing angle in Møller scattering

We report on a precision measurement of the parity-violating asymmetry in fixed target electron-electron (Møller) scattering: A(PV) = [-131 +/- 14(stat) +/- 10(syst)] x 10(-9), leading to the determination of the weak mixing angle sin2(thetaW(eff) = 0.2397 +/- 0.0010(stat) +/- 0.0008(syst), evaluated at Q2 = 0.026 GeV2. Combining this result with the measurements of sin2(thetaW(eff) at the Z0 pole, the running of the weak mixing angle is observed with over 6sigma significance. The measurement sets constraints on new physics effects at the TeV scale.

Hemolysis during percutaneous mechanical thrombectomy can mimic a hemolytic transfusion reaction

BACKGROUND

Interventional radiologists have developed percutaneous mechanical thrombectomy (PMT) devices to remove intravascular thrombi. Hemolysis, secondary to thrombus destruction from these devices, has been described in radiology journals, but similar reports appear to be lacking in the transfusion medicine literature. Two cases of hemolysis after PMT are described that involved the transfusion service, one of which was reported as a hemolytic transfusion reaction.

CASE REPORTS

The first patient received 4 units of red cells (RBCs) during a thrombectomy and subsequent placement of a transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt. The patient developed hemoglobinuria, and it was reported to the blood bank as a possible hemolytic transfusion reaction. After RBC mismatch and bacterial contamination were excluded, the hemolysis was attributed to thrombectomy-related mechanical hemolysis. In the second case, a hemolyzed sample was sent to the blood bank for a type and cross-match. Upon requesting that the sample be redrawn, it was learned that the sample was obtained after PMT.

CONCLUSION

Patients who have undergone PMT can have clinical and laboratory findings suggestive of hemolytic transfusion reactions. Although interventional radiologists are familiar with these side effects, the blood bank profession needs to be aware that these procedures cause nonimmune hemolysis and must consider this possibility when evaluating transfusion reactions in these patients.

Vanishing magnetic interactions in ferromagnetic thin films

We have used element-specific hysteresis measurements, based on the x-ray magnetic circular dichroism technique, to investigate magnetic trilayer structures composed of Fe and Ni layers. Within a critical regime we have discovered a class of structures in which the exchange interaction, the mechanism responsible for the macroscopic magnetism, can become vanishingly small. The experimental observations are supported by first principles theory and are explained as arising from a cancellation of several competing magnetic interactions. Hence, we have discovered a system with a novel exchange interaction between magnetic layers in direct contact that replaces the conventional exchange interaction in ferromagnets.

A risk-based methodology for deriving quality standards for organic contaminants in sewage sludge for use in agriculture—Conceptual Framework

This paper describes a systematic methodology (Conceptual Framework) to derive quality standards for organic (anthropogenic) contaminants in sewage sludge added to agricultural land, in the context of revision of EU Sludge Directive 86/278/EEC and the broader Soil Thematic Strategy. The overall objective is to ensure, based on a risk assessment approach, a sustainable use of sludge over a long time horizon. ILSI-Europe's Conceptual Framework is in essence consistent with the EU Technical Guidance Document (TGD) for Environmental Risk Assessment of Chemicals in the soil compartment, or US-EPA's Sewage Sludge Use and Disposal Regulations, Part 503 Standards. A 'checklist' of different exposure pathways and transfer processes for organic contaminants needs to be considered, and the most sensitive relevant toxicological endpoint and its PNEC need to be identified. The additional complexity specific to deriving Sludge Quality Standards (SQS) is that the toxicity results may need-e.g., for (indirect) human toxicity-to be related back to maximum acceptable soil exposure levels (PEC(soil)). In turn, the latter need to be back-calculated to the maximum acceptable levels in sewage sludge (PEC(sludge)) at the time of application. Finally, for a sustainable sludge use, the exposure from repeated addition and potential chemical build-up over time (e.g., 100 years) needs to be assessed. The SQS may therefore vary with the (local) sludge application regime, and/or sludge pretreatment processes.

Alteration in the laboratory profile of a lupus anticoagulant in a patient with non-Hodgkin's lymphoma

We describe a patient with non-Hodgkin's lymphoma who developed a lupus anticoagulant (LA) detectable by activated partial thromboplastin time (APTT), dilute Russell's viper venom time (DRVVT) and kaolin clotting time (KCT). IgM anticardiolipin antibodies (ACA) were elevated. At a later admission, and following treatment for the lymphoma, routine coagulation screening showed an elevated prothrombin time (PT) without correction in mixing tests using a recombinant thromboplastin. Routine APTT was below the reference range and ACA levels were normal. Raw data for one-stage factor assays demonstrated the presence of an inhibitor. Analysis for LA was undertaken by DRVVT, KCT, activated seven lupus anticoagulant assay, Taipan snake venom time, platelet neutralisation procedures (PNP), Ecarin time and PT using rabbit brain thromboplastin. The results revealed a LA capable of prolonging the clotting times of the PNPs and PT using recombinant thromboplastin, but that was corrected using Ecarin venom, modified PNP and brain thromboplastin. The antibody also demonstrated the lupus anticoagulant co-factor effect. The factor VIII: C was markedly raised which may have masked the LA in the APTT. The changing laboratory profile over time demonstrates the effects of LA heterogeneity and variations in sensitivity and specificity of assays for the detection of antiphospholipid antibodies.

Observation of parity nonconservation in møller scattering

We report a measurement of the parity-violating asymmetry in fixed target electron-electron (Møller) scattering: A(PV)=[-175+/-30(stat)+/-20(syst)] x 10(-9). This first direct observation of parity nonconservation in Møller scattering leads to a measurement of the electron's weak charge at low energy Q(e)(W)=-0.053+/-0.011. This is consistent with the standard model expectation at the current level of precision: sin((2)theta(W)(M(Z))((-)MS)=0.2293+/-0.0024(stat)+/-0.0016(syst)+/-0.0006(theory).

Future possibilities of the Linac Coherent Light Source

A study of the potential for the development of the Linac Coherent Light Source (LCLS) beyond the specifications of the baseline design is presented. These future developments include delivery of X-ray pulses in the 1 fs regime, extension of the spectral range, increase of the FEL power, exploitation of the spontaneous emission, and a more flexible time structure. As this potential is exploited, the LCLS can maintain its role as a world-leading instrument for many years beyond its commissioning in 2008 and initial operation as the world's first X-ray free-electron laser.

Parity-violating electron deuteron scattering and the proton's neutral weak axial vector form factor

We report on a new measurement of the parity-violating asymmetry in quasielastic electron scattering from the deuteron at backward angles at Q2=0.038 (GeV/c)2. This quantity provides a determination of the neutral weak axial vector form factor of the nucleon, which can potentially receive large electroweak corrections. The measured asymmetry A=-3.51+/-0.57 (stat)+/-0.58 (syst) ppm is consistent with theoretical predictions. We also report on updated results of the previous experiment at Q2=0.091 (GeV/c)2, which are also consistent with theoretical predictions.

Haemopoietic growth factors for neonates: assessing risks and benefits

This review summarises the rationale, clinical trial evidence for benefit and potential toxicities of Erythropoietin, Thrombopoietin, Granulocyte Colony Stimulating Factor and Granulocyte-Macrophage Colony Stimulating Factor. Erythropoietin has failed to have a clinical impact on red cell transfusion requirement in very low birth weight infants; it is uncertain whether Thrombopoietin will find a significant clinical role in neonatal thrombocytopenia and there is, as yet, insufficient evidence for the routine use of Granulocyte- or Granulocyte-Macrophage Colony Stimulating Factor to prevent or treat bacterial infection. A number of theoretical risks of haemopoietic growth factor use in neonates have been suggested, but no toxicities have been observed during their clinical use. Exploring the potential for benefit in selected groups of infants should be encouraged.

Are pre-authorization requirements an access barrier to outpatient mental health care for medicaid enrollees? A survey of providers

BACKGROUND

Pre-authorization requirements permit managed care organizations control over access to care. Anecdotal reports to the Wisconsin Medicaid program suggest that pre-authorization requirements are so onerous that they are barriers to outpatient mental health care.

METHODS

Clinicians providing mental health/alcohol and other drug abuse services to Wisconsin Medicaid were surveyed regarding their experiences obtaining outpatient service pre-authorizations from health maintenance organizations (HMO) for Medicaid enrollees. The survey obtained factual information regarding pre-authorization procedures and decisions, as well as clinicians' attitudes about the pre-authorization process.

RESULTS

Requests for service pre-authorizations are generally responded to in a timely fashion and frequently approved. One hundred fifty seven (44%) respondents rated the HMO that they worked with as above average or the best while 97 (27%) rated it as below average or the poorest. Respondents' criticisms of their HMO focused on failures to make useful treatment suggestions and a lack of understanding regarding the limited availability of community resources that could be alternatives to treatment. Therapist attitude was more favorable when pre-authorization was sought from the HMO directly rather than through a gatekeeper.

CONCLUSION

The pre-authorization requirement for outpatient services is not an undue burden for the mental health/alcohol and other drug abuse providers or patients.

Hypertriglyceridaemia and NK cell lymphoma

This case report describes a patient who presented with pyrexia of unknown origin allied with hypertriglyceridaemia (16.2 mmol/l) but not hypercholesterolaemia (4.1 mmol/l). Investigations identified the cause of the pyrexia as an adult T-cell lymphoma of natural killer cell phenotype (CD3[+], CD7[+], anti-TCR alpha/beta[+], CD8[+], CD56[+]). Hypertriglyceridaemia has been reported with non-Hodgkin s lymphoma, and an animal model suggests that antilipoprotein lipase antibodies may be made as an immunological response to the tumour. Lymphomas should be considered as part of the differential diagnosis in type IV-V hyperlipidaemia.

Linear and nonlinear analysis of heart rate variability during propofol anesthesia for short-duration procedures in children

OBJECTIVE

To determine whether heart rate variability metrics provide an accurate method of monitoring depth of anesthesia, assessing the response to painful stimuli, and assessing neuroautonomic regulation of cardiac activity in children receiving propofol anesthesia for short-duration procedures.

DESIGN

Prospective, case series.

SETTING

Sixteen-bed pediatric intensive care unit, oncology unit, and endoscopy suite in a tertiary care children's hospital and ophthalmology examination rooms in an associated eye institute.

PATIENTS

Thirty-three pediatric patients undergoing propofol anesthesia for short procedures.

INTERVENTIONS

None.

MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS

Heart rate variability metrics studied included mean, SD, low- and high-frequency power, detrended fluctuation analysis (represented by correlation coefficient, alpha), and approximate entropy. Compared with the initial anesthetized state, we found increased heart rate SD (3.17 +/- 1.31 vs. 7.05 +/- 0.26 bpm, p <.0001), heart rate low-frequency power (3.69 +/- 0.36 vs. 4.48 +/- 0.41 bpm(2)/Hz, p <.0001), heart rate low-/high-frequency ratio (1.47 +/- 0.26 vs. 1.26 +/- 0.24, p =.001), and heart rate alpha (1.12 +/- 0.24 vs. 1.35 +/- 0.21, p <.0001) during painful procedure. Mean heart rate (105.8 +/- 13.4 vs. 101.5 +/- 12.4 bpm, p =.005) and heart rate approximate entropy decreased with painful procedure (0.75 +/- 0.19 vs. 0.53 + 0.16, p <.001), whereas there was no significant change in heart rate high-frequency power (3.04 +/- 0.63 vs. 3.16 +/- 0.71 bpm(2)/Hz, p =.26).

CONCLUSIONS

We conclude that power spectral analysis of heart rate variability may be an accurate and clinically useful measure of depth of propofol anesthesia. We speculate that high-frequency heart rate power during propofol anesthesia correlates with depth of anesthesia, whereas low-frequency power allows for assessment of the patient's sympathetic response to pain.

Properties of the ultrashort gain length, self-amplified spontaneous emission free-electron laser in the linear regime and saturation

VISA (Visible to Infrared SASE Amplifier) is a high-gain self-amplified spontaneous emission (SASE) free-electron laser (FEL), which achieved saturation at 840 nm within a single-pass 4-m undulator. The experiment was performed at the Accelerator Test Facility at BNL, using a high brightness 70-MeV electron beam. A gain length shorter than 18 cm has been obtained, yielding a total gain of 2 x 10(8) at saturation. The FEL performance, including the spectral, angular, and statistical properties of SASE radiation, has been characterized for different electron beam conditions. Results are compared to the three-dimensional SASE FEL theory and start-to-end numerical simulations of the entire injector, transport, and FEL systems. An agreement between simulations and experimental results has been obtained at an unprecedented level of detail.

Nicotinic receptor modulation: advantages for successful Alzheimer's disease therapy

Galantamine is a modest acetylcholinesterase inhibitor (AChEI) that is also an allosteric potentiating ligand (APL) of nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (nAChRs). In this report, these two effects are shown to be dependent upon each other using a realistic computer model of the cholinergic synaptic cleft. The model is based upon realistic estimates of the anatomy of a neuronal synapse, the kinetic states of pre- and postsynaptic nAChRs, and the acetylcholinesterase enzyme. The number of open postsynaptic nAChRs per action potential is a measure of cholinergic neurotransmission. Using mathematical equations and published data, the effect of the AChEI and APL actions of galantamine is quantitatively described and compared to the effects of pure AChEIs. The model shows that galantamine--compared to similar concentrations of pure AChEIs--is able to compensate for its somewhat modest effect on the cholinesterase enzyme with its allosteric modulatory effects that include the additional benefit of a lower degree of receptor desensitization.

A new scale to assess radiographic success of secondary alveolar bone grafts

OBJECTIVES

To propose a new scale for evaluating the position of the bone graft within the cleft and assess its inter- and intraobserver reliability.

DESIGN

Sixty-six patients (70 cleft sites) over a 14-year period were assessed, 90% of patients retrospectively and 10% prospectively. The radiographs were reviewed by two clinicians in controlled conditions twice, with 1 week between assessments. Both clinicians were blind to patient identity.

OUTCOME MEASURES

A new scale subdividing the position of the bone into one of six categories was used. The radiographs were also assessed using the Bergland scale.

RESULTS

Using the Bergland scale, 62.9% of the cleft sites were type I, 21.4% type II, 4.3% type III, and 5.7% type IV. It was not possible to assess 5.7% of the clefts with this scale because the canine was unerupted. Using the Chelsea alveolar bone graft scale, 58% were category A, 20% B, 7% C, 3% D, 3% E, and 9% F.

CONCLUSIONS

The above scale can be used to determine accurately the position of bone within the cleft site. It can be used in the mixed dentition prior to eruption of the canine. It demonstrated moderate to substantial inter- and intraobserver reliability and offers several advantages, compared with other scales.

Atypical lipoma of the tongue

We report an atypical lipoma arising in the tongue of a 43-year-old man who presented with an indolent dorsal lingual swelling. Atypical lipomas contain multivacoulated lipoblasts, which distinguishes them from benign lipomas. The superficial location in this case distinguishes this tumour from well-differentiated liposarcoma, which is biologically similar in lacking the propensity for metastasis. The superficial location of atypical lipoma allows a complete resection, which is often not possible for the deep-seated counterpart. Atypical lipoma and well-differentiated liposarcoma, if left in situ, may undergo transition to de-differentiated liposarcoma. Atypical lipoma should be completely excised with a cuff of normal tissue in order to prevent repeated local recurrence and the possibility of de-differentiation.

Hypopyon uveitis and iris nodules in non-Hodgkin's lymphoma: ocular relapse during systemic remission

We report the case history of a patient with peripheral non-Hodgkin's lymphoma in systemic remission, who presented with a pseudohypopyon and iris nodules. Iris biopsy confirmed the presence of intraocular tumour, which subsequently responded to orbital radiation. Ocular remission, however, was soon followed by a systemic relapse, suggesting that the eye may act as a sanctuary site for tumour cells during chemotherapy, and that cells may metastasize from the eye back to the periphery during systemic remission.

Magnetic X-ray circular dichroism on in situ grown 3d magnetic thin films on surfaces

Epitaxic thin and ultrathin films on surfaces allow crystallographic phases that do not occur naturally in the bulk to be stabilized. They also offer new possibilities for an improved understanding of soft X-ray photoabsorption in magnetic systems. Data collected using the Elliptically Polarizing Undulator at BL 5.2 of the Stanford Synchrotron Radiation Laboratory are presented herein. Fe, Co and Ni films were prepared on Cu(100) surfaces. L2,3-edge spectra were recorded with circular and linear light. Fresnel diffractometry was used to quantify the degree of transverse beam coherence. A quantitative analysis of the spectral features indicates a correlation of the spectral intensities and the transverse beam coherence. Resonant reflectivity spectra for Co ultrathin films that exhibit strong dichroism are presented. The reflectivity data indicate that interference effects of the reflected beams at the two interfaces are of importance, even for ultrathin films.

Magnetisation reorientation in ultra-thin Fe films on Cu(100) upon deposition of Co

Ultra thin films of Fe deposited on the (100) surface of a Cu single crystal exhibit a net perpendicular magnetic anisotropy. The addition of very low coverages of Co results in the easy magnetic direction reorienting into the film plane. This behavior is in contrast to the addition of similar amounts of Fe, whereupon the ferromagnetic response vanishes. This result is discussed in terms of the anisotropy energies derived from the spectroscopic data.

Strange magnetism and the anapole structure of the proton

The violation of mirror symmetry in the weak force provides a powerful tool to study the internal structure of the proton. Experimental results have been obtained that address the role of strange quarks in generating nuclear magnetism. The measurement reported here provides an unambiguous constraint on strange quark contributions to the proton's magnetic moment through the electron-proton weak interaction. We also report evidence for the existence of a parity-violating electromagnetic effect known as the anapole moment of the proton. The proton's anapole moment is not yet well understood theoretically, but it could have important implications for precision weak interaction studies in atomic systems such as cesium.