measurement of the enhancement of the nuclear interaction yield with crystalline targets at cyclotron energies

Ordered structures such as crystalline materials may help to enhance the nuclear interaction yield. Indeed, the aligned atoms act as a single entity on impinging charged particles, causing the trajectory to pass from its random motion to a deterministic one. In fact, Monte Carlo simulations suggested that specific crystal alignments allow for the enhancement of the production rate of nuclear inelastic reactions, because particles are forced to pass by the atomic nuclei more frequently than would happen in an amorphous material. Recent measurements we carried out at the AN2000 accelerator of the National Institute for Nuclear Physics Legnaro National Laboratories showed the experimental evidence of such an effect. A 643.5 keV collimated proton beam was used to induce the [Formula: see text]O(p,[Formula: see text]N reaction in an Al[Formula: see text]O[Formula: see text] substrate oriented along the axis. The capability of manipulating such an effect paves the way to studying innovative targets for the enhancement of the nuclear interaction yield with a constant density

Segmentation of 3D Models for Cultural Heritage Structural Analysis – Some Critical Issues

Cultural Heritage documentation and preservation has become a fundamental concern in this historical period. 3D modelling offers a perfect aid to record ancient buildings and artefacts and can be used as a valid starting point for restoration, conservation and structural analysis, which can be performed by using Finite Element Methods (FEA). The models derived from reality-based techniques, made up of the exterior surfaces of the objects captured at high resolution, are - for this reason - made of millions of polygons. Such meshes are not directly usable in structural analysis packages and need to be properly pre-processed in order to be transformed in volumetric meshes suitable for FEA. In addition, dealing with ancient objects, a proper segmentation of 3D volumetric models is needed to analyse the behaviour of the structure with the most suitable level of detail for the different sections of the structure under analysis. Segmentation of 3D models is still an open issue, especially when dealing with ancient, complicated and geometrically complex objects that imply the presence of anomalies and gaps, due to environmental agents such as earthquakes, pollution, wind and rain, or human factors. The aims of this paper is to critically analyse some of the different methodologies and algorithms available to segment a 3D point cloud or a mesh, identifying difficulties and problems by showing examples on different structures

Multidisciplinary study of the Tindari Fault (Sicily, Italy) separating ongoing contractional and extensional compartments along the active Africa–Eurasia convergent boundary

The Africa–Eurasia convergence in Sicily and southern Calabria is currently expressed by two different tectonic and geodynamic domains: thewestern region, governed by a roughlyN–S compression generated by a continental collision; the eastern one, controlled by a NW–SE extension related to the south-east-directed expansion of the Calabro–Peloritan Arc. The different deformation pattern of these two domains is accommodated by a right-lateral shear zone (Aeolian–Tindari–Letojanni fault system) which, from the Ionian Sea, north of Mt. Etna, extends across the Peloritani chain to the Aeolian Islands. In this work, we study the evidence of active tectonics characterizing this shear zone, through the analysis of seismic and geodetic data acquired by the INGV networks in the last 15 years. The study is completed by structural and morphological surveys carried out between Capo Tindari and the watershed of the chain. The results allowed defining a clear structural picture depicting the tectonic interferences between the two different geodynamic domains. The results indicate that, besides the regional ~N130°E horizontal extensional stress field, another one, NE–SW-oriented, is active in the investigated area. Both tension axes are mutually independent and have been active up to the present at different times. The coexistence of these different active horizontal extensions is the result of complex interactions between several induced stresses: 1) the regional extension (NW–SE) related to the slab rollback and back-arc extension; 2) the strong uplift of the chain; 3) the accommodation between compressional and extensional tectonic regimes along the Aeolian– Tindari–Letojanni faults, through a SSE–NNW right-lateral transtensional displacement. In these conditions, the greater and recurring uplift activity is not able to induce a radial extensional dynamics, but, under the “directing” action of the shear system, it can only act on the regional extension (NW–SE) and produce the second system of extension (NE–SW)

Effect of two gaps on the flux lattice internal field distribution: evidence of two length scales from muSR in Mg1-xAlxB2

We have measured the transverse field muon spin precession in the flux lattice (FL) state of the two gap superconductor MgB2 and of the electron doped compounds Mg1-xAlxB2 in magnetic fields up to 2.8T. We show the effect of the two gaps on the internal field distribution in the FL, from which we determine two coherence length parameters and the doping dependence of the London penetration depth. This is an independent determination of the complex vortex structure already suggested by the STM observation of large vortices in a MgB2 single crystal. Our data agrees quantitatively with STM and we thus validate a new phenomenological model for the internal fields.Comment: now in press Phys. Rev. Lett., small modifications required by the edito

Recent activity and kinematics of the bounding faults of the Catanzaro trough (Central Calabria, italy): new morphotectonic, geodetic and seismological data

A multidisciplinary work integrating structural, geodetic and seismological data was performed in the Catanzaro Trough (central Calabria, Italy) to define the seismotectonic setting of this area. The Catanzaro Trough is a structural depression transversal to the Calabrian Arc, lying in-between two longitudinal grabens: the Crati Basin to the north and the Mesima Basin to the south. The investigated area experienced some of the strongest historical earthquakes of Italy, whose seismogenic sources are still not well defined. We investigated and mapped the major WSW–ENE to WNW–ESE trending normal-oblique Lamezia-Catanzaro Fault System, bounding to the north the Catanzaro Trough. Morphotectonic data reveal that some fault segments have recently been reactivated since they have displaced upper Pleistocene deposits showing typical geomorphic features associated with active normal fault scarps such as triangular and trapezoidal facets, and displaced alluvial fans. The analysis of instrumental seismicity indicates that some clusters of earthquakes have nucleated on the Lamezia-Catanzaro Fault System. In addition, focal mechanisms indicate the prevalence of left-lateral kinematics on E–W roughly oriented fault plains. GPS data confirm that slow left-lateral motion occurs along this fault system. Minor north-dipping normal faults were also mapped in the southern side of the Catanzaro Trough. They show eroded fault scarps along which weak seismic activity and negligible geodetic motion occur. Our study highlights that the Catanzaro Trough is a poliphased Plio-Quaternary extensional basin developed early as a half-graben in the frame of the tear-faulting occurring at the northern edge of the subducting Ionian slab. In this context, the strike-slip motion contributes to the longitudinal segmentation of the Calabrian Arc. In addition, the high number of seismic events evidenced by the instrumental seismicity, the macroseismic intensity distribution of the historical earthquakes and the scaling laws relating to earthquakes and seismogenic faults support the hypothesis that the Lamezia-Catanzaro Fault System may have been responsible for the historical earthquakes since it is capable of triggering earthquakes with magnitude up to 6.9

Molecular mechanisms of photosensitization induced by drugs XIV: Two different behaviours in the photochemistry and photosensitization of antibacterials containing a fluoroquinolone like chromophore

This paper deals with the photosensitizing activity of FLQs towards two different biosubstrates, membrane and DNA. Thein vitrophototoxic activity of these drugsvs.DNA presents peculiar features with respect to thatvs.membranes, probably due to a specific binding of the drugs to the double helix and to the operativeness of different photosensitization mechanisms with the two types of biosubstrates. A description of the UVA photochemistry and the photosensitizing properties of two significant examples in the FLQ family is reported. The investigated compounds are Enoxacin, 1-ethyl-6-fluoro-1,4-dihydro-4- oxo-7-[1-piperazinyl]-1,8-naphtyridine-3-carboxilic acid and Rufloxacin, 9-fluoro-2,3-dihydro-10-4´-methyl- 1´-piperazinyl-7-oxo-7H-pyrido[1,2,3−de]-1,4-benzothiazine-6-carboxylic acid

Experimental evidence of planar channeling in a periodically bent crystal

The usage of a Crystalline Undulator (CU) has been identified as a promising solution for generating powerful and monochromatic $\gamma$-rays. A CU was fabricated at SSL through the grooving method, i.e., by the manufacturing of a series of periodical grooves on the major surfaces of a crystal. The CU was extensively characterized both morphologically via optical interferometry at SSL and structurally via X-ray diffraction at ESRF. Then, it was finally tested for channeling with a 400 GeV/c proton beam at CERN. The experimental results were compared to Monte Carlo simulations. Evidence of planar channeling in the CU was firmly observed. Finally, the emission spectrum of the positron beam interacting with the CU was simulated for possible usage in currently existing facilities

Brief communication: Co-seismic displacement on 26 and 30 October 2016 ( M w = 5.9 and 6.5) – earthquakes in central Italy from the analysis of a local GNSS network

Abstract. On 24 August 2016 a strong earthquake (Mw = 6.0) affected central Italy and an intense seismic sequence started. Field observations, DInSAR (Differential INterferometry Synthetic-Aperture Radar) analyses and preliminary focal mechanisms, as well as the distribution of aftershocks, suggested the reactivation of the northern sector of the Laga fault, the southern part of which was already rebooted during the 2009 L'Aquila sequence, and of the southern segment of the Mt Vettore fault system (MVFS). Based on this preliminary information and following the stress-triggering concept (Stein, 1999; Steacy et al., 2005), we tentatively identified a potential fault zone that is very vulnerable to future seismic events just north of the earlier epicentral area. Accordingly, we planned a local geodetic network consisting of five new GNSS (Global Navigation Satellite System) stations located a few kilometres away from both sides of the MVFS. This network was devoted to working out, at least partially but in some detail, the possible northward propagation of the crustal network ruptures. The building of the stations and a first set of measurements were carried out during a first campaign (30 September and 2 October 2016). On 26 October 2016, immediately north of the epicentral area of the 24 August event, another earthquake (Mw = 5.9) occurred, followed 4 days later (30 October) by the main shock (Mw = 6.5) of the whole 2016 summer–autumn seismic sequence. Our local geodetic network was fully affected by the new events and therefore we performed a second campaign soon after (11–13 November 2016). In this brief note, we provide the results of our geodetic measurements that registered the co-seismic and immediately post-seismic deformation of the two major October shocks, documenting in some detail the surface deformation close to the fault trace. We also compare our results with the available surface deformation field of the broader area, obtained on the basis of the DInSAR technique, and show an overall good fit

Intoxicação experimental por Ipomoea carnea subsp. fistulosa em caprinos da Argentina: correlação clínico-patológica, com especial atenção ao sistema nervoso central

Ipomoea carnea subsp. fistulosa, aguapei or mandiyura, is responsible for lysosomal storage in goats. The shrub contains several alkaloids, mainly swansonine which inhibits lysosomal α-mannosidase and Golgi mannosidase II. Poisoning occurs by inhibition of these hydrolases. There is neuronal vacuolation, endocrine dysfunction, cardiovascular and gastrointestinal injury, and immune disorders. Clinical signs and pathology of the experimental poisoning of goats by Ipomoea carnea in Argentina are here described. Five goats received fresh leaves and stems of Ipomoea. At the beginning, the goats did not consume the plant, but later, it was preferred over any other forage. High dose induced rapid intoxication, whereas with low doses, the course of the toxicosis was more protracted. The goats were euthanized when they were recumbent. Cerebrum, cerebellum, medulla oblongata, pons and colliculi, were routinely processed for histology. In nine days, the following clinical signs developed: abnormal fascies, dilated nostrils and abnormal postures of the head, cephalic tremors and nystagmus, difficulty in standing. Subsequently, the goats had a tendency to fall, always to the left, with spastic convulsions. There was lack in coordination of voluntary movements due to Purkinje and deep nuclei neurons damage. The cochlear reflex originated hyperreflexia, abnormal posture, head movements and tremors. The withdrawal reflex produced flexor muscles hypersensitivity at the four legs, later depression and stupor. Abnormal responses to sounds were related to collicular lesions. Thalamic damage altered the withdrawal reflex, showing incomplete reaction. The observed cervical hair bristling was attributed to a thalamic regulated nociceptive response. Depression may be associated with agonists of lysergic acid contained in Ipomoea. These clinical signs were correlated with lesions in different parts of the CNS.Ipomoea carnea subsp. fistulosa, aguapeí ou mandiyura, causa uma doença de depósito lisossomal em caprinos. A planta contém vários alcalóides, principalmente swansonine, que inibe uma α-mannosidase lisossomal e uma mannosidase II do Golgi. A intoxicação ocorre pela inibição dessas hidrolases. Há vacuolização neuronal, disfunção endócrina, lesões cardiovasculares e gastrointestinais e distúrbios imunológicos. No presente trabalho é descrita a intoxicação experimental por Ipomoea carnea subsp. fistulosa em caprinos da Argentina. Cinco cabras receberam folhas frescas e ramos de Ipomoea. No começo eles não consumiram a planta, mas depois ela foi preferida a qualquer outras forrageiras. Altas doses induziram uma Pesq. Vet. Bras. 32(1):37-42, janeiro 2012 38 Elvio E. Ríos et al. intoxicação rápida, enquanto que com doses baixas demora mais tempo. As cabras foram sacrificadas quando ficavam em decúbito. Cérebro, cerebelo, medula oblonga, ponte e colículos foram processados rotineiramente para histologia. Aos nove dias, encontramos: fascie anormal, narinas dilatadas, posturas anormais da cabeça, tremores cefálicos e nistagmo, dificuldade para permanecer na estação. Posteriormente, presentearam a tendência de queda, sempre à esquerda, com convulsões espásticas. Os neurônios de Purkinje e os os núcleos profundos foram danificados. Como conseqüência, emergiu a falta de coordenação de movimentos voluntários. A hiper-reflexo coclear originou postura anormal, movimentos de cabeça e tremores. A retirada produz reflexos hipersensibilidade nos flexores dos quatro membros, depois depressão e letargia. As respostas anormais estão ligadas a lesões do colículo. Injurias no tálamo alteram o reflexo de retirada, mostrando uma reação incompleta. Os pelos eriçados da região cervical podem representar uma resposta nociceptiva também regulada pelo tálamo. A depressão pode estar associada com agonistas do ácido lisérgico presentes na Ipomoea. Esses sintomas estão relacionados com lesões em diferentes partes do SNC.Fil: Ríos, Elvio E.. Universidad Nacional del Nordeste. Facultad de Ciencias Veterinarias. Instituto de Ictiologia del Nordeste; ArgentinaFil: Cholich, Luciana Andrea. Universidad Nacional del Nordeste. Facultad de Ciencias Veterinarias. Instituto de Ictiologia del Nordeste; Argentina. Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas; ArgentinaFil: Gimeno, Eduardo Juan. Universidad Nacional de la Plata; ArgentinaFil: Guidi, María G.. Universidad Nacional de la Plata; ArgentinaFil: Acosta de Pérez, Ofelia C.. Universidad Nacional del Nordeste. Facultad de Ciencias Veterinarias. Instituto de Ictiologia del Nordeste; Argentin

Geological, seismological and geodetic evidence of active thrustingand folding south of Mt. Etna (eastern Sicily): Revaluation of “seismicefficiency” of the Sicilian Basal Thrust

tGeological studies and morphological analysis, compared with seismological and geodetic data, suggestthat a compressive regime currently occurs at crustal depth in the western sector of Mt. Etna, accommo-dated by shallow thrusting and folding at the front of the chain, south of the volcanic edifice. In particular,a large WSW-ENE trending anticline, interpreted as detachment fold, is growing west and north of Cata-nia city (the Catania anticline). Geological data suggest that during the last 6000 years the frontal foldhas been characterized by uplift rates of ∼6 mm/yr along the hinge, consistent with the interferometricdata (10 mm/yr) recorded in the last 20 years. Moreover, a NNW-SSE oriented axis of compression hasbeen obtained by seismological data, consistent with GPS measurements over the last 20 years whichhave revealed a shortening rate of ∼5 mm/yr along the same direction. Besides the activity related to thevolcanic feeding system, the seismic pattern under the Mt. Etna edifice can be certainly related to theregional tectonics. The compressive stress is converted into elastic accumulation and then in earthquakesalong the ramps beneath the chain, whereas on the frontal area it is accommodated by aseismic defor-mation along an incipient detachment within the clayish foredeep deposits. The high rate of shorteningat the aseismic front of the chain, suggests a greater “seismic efficiency” in correspondence of ramps atthe rear.Published32-412T. Tettonica attivaJCR Journalrestricte