Extreme universe space observatory - EUSO: an innovative project for the detection of extreme energy Cosmic Rays and Neutrinos

The detection of extreme energy cosmic rays and neutrinos is the challenge of the future generation experiments in astroparticle physics. To extend our knowledge on the origin of the highest-energy cosmic rays and our understanding of particle interactions for E > 1020 eV, we need the use of a detector with an effective area many times that of the today operative or planned experiments. The Extreme Universe Space Observatory—EUSO—meets this requirement and is the first experiment using the observation from a space-platform of the Earth atmosphere which behaves like an active detector for these extreme energy primary events. The air fluorescence of the extensive air showers produced by primary particles penetrating the Earth atmosphere is imaged by the EUSO telescope as the UV light progresses down through the atmosphere. A novel approach based on the single-photon counting and fast timing image technique permits to resolve arrival direction, energy and nature of the primary cosmic ray. The EUSO telescope conception, detection technique, system electronics and operating parameters are evaluated and discussed in this paper together with the planned mission profile and the operational performance expected

Terminology for contrast-enhanced sonography: a practical glossary.

Objective. The purpose of this glossary is to offer an updated guide to the correct terminology for contrast-enhanced sonography. Methods. This report was prepared by a panel of radiologists from the Sonography Section of the Italian Association of Medical Radiology. A leading author prepared a list of terms based on a comprehensive literature survey. The draft was analyzed by 3 experts on the topic of contrast-enhanced sonography. These reviewers reached a consensus and prepared the final version. Results. A list of 137 terms is included. These terms are briefly defined. Their proper application is discussed, with special reference to potential misleading uses. Conclusions. Contrast-enhanced sonography is a relatively new diagnostic tool, now entering clinical practice in several countries. Use of appropriate, universal terminology is mandatory in the scientific setting to allow comparison between different published experiences. Additionally, use of clear, standardized terminology is necessary in the clinical setting to facilitate report understanding by the referring physician. Standardized, nonequivocal nomenclature may also help future diffusion of sonographic contrast media in countries where their application is still not approved

Determinants associated with obesity and physical activity in the public and private schools of the city of palermo

Introduction: Obesity is a medical condition associated with premature death and it is a risk factor for many chronic diseases. In this context, performing a regular physical activity promotes a healthy lifestyle, with significant health benefits. The aim of the study was to investigate behaviors that increase the risk of obesity and the determinants that encourage physical activity among adolescents. Materials and methods: The HBSC (Health Behavior in School-aged Children) questionnaire was administered to students in Palermo's private and public schools. For the sampling of public schools the protocol of the HBSC Surveillance System was followed; for the private ones it was opportunistic. Results: Private school students are more likely to exercise more than 3 days per week (OR 1.58) and are more likely to exercise more than 2 times a week (OR 2.08). Obese students in private schools in Palermo are more likely to perform physical activity for less than 3 days a week (OR 3.52) and a higher risk of not having breakfast (OR 10.11) and a snack between main meals (OR 3.82) every day. For all the schools examined, it emerged that obese subjects are more likely not to consume fruit (OR 3.13), to stay more than 6 hours a day in front of PCs and video games (OR 3.24) and more than 2 hours a day in front of TV (OR 3.79). Male students are more likely to perform physical activity for more than 3 days per week (OR 1.48) and intense physical activity at least 2 times per week (OR 1.76) Conclusions: It is necessary to intervene early with training on school and family in order to promote correct and responsible food choices and increase the level of physical activity among students. Therefore prevention interventions must be an integral part of coherent strategies based on tests of agreed effectiveness in order to minimize the risk linked to the development of diseases

Optical spectroscopy and the nature of the insulating state of rare-earth nickelates

Using a combination of spectroscopic ellipsometry and DC transport measurements, we determine the temperature dependence of the optical conductivity of NdNiO$_3$ and SmNiO$_{3}$ films. The optical spectra show the appearance of a characteristic two-peak structure in the near-infrared when the material passes from the metal to the insulator phase. Dynamical mean-field theory calculations confirm this two-peak structure, and allow to identify these spectral changes and the associated changes in the electronic structure. We demonstrate that the insulating phase in these compounds and the associated characteristic two-peak structure are due to the combined effect of bond-disproportionation and Mott physics associated with half of the disproportionated sites. We also provide insights into the structure of excited states above the gap.Comment: 12 pages, 13 figure

Lumped element kinetic inductance detectors maturity for space-borne instruments in the range between 80 and 180 GHz

This work intends to give the state-of-the-art of our knowledge of the performance of LEKIDs at millimetre wavelengths (from 80 to 180~GHz). We evaluate their optical sensitivity under typical background conditions and their interaction with ionising particles. Two LEKID arrays, originally designed for ground-based applications and composed of a few hundred pixels each, operate at a central frequency of 100, and 150~GHz ($\Delta \nu / \nu$ about 0.3). Their sensitivities have been characterised in the laboratory using a dedicated closed-circle 100~mK dilution cryostat and a sky simulator, allowing for the reproduction of realistic, space-like observation conditions. The impact of cosmic rays has been evaluated by exposing the LEKID arrays to alpha particles ($^{241}$Am) and X sources ($^{109}$Cd) with a readout sampling frequency similar to the ones used for Planck HFI (about 200~Hz), and also with a high resolution sampling level (up to 2~MHz) in order to better characterise and interpret the observed glitches. In parallel, we have developed an analytical model to rescale the results to what would be observed by such a LEKID array at the second Lagrangian point.Comment: 7 pages, 2 tables, 13 figure

Geoneutrinos in Borexino

This paper describes the Borexino detector and the high-radiopurity studies and tests that are integral part of the Borexino technology and development. The application of Borexino to the detection and studies of geoneutrinos is discussed.Comment: Conference: Neutrino Geophysics Honolulu, Hawaii December 14-16, 200

Interventional Ultrasound in Dermatology: A Pictorial Overview Focusing on Cutaneous Melanoma Patients

Cutaneous melanoma incidence is increasing worldwide, representing an aggressive tumor when evolving to the metastatic phase. High-resolution ultrasound (US) is playing a growing role in the assessment of newly diagnosed melanoma cases, in the locoregional staging prior to the sentinel lymph-node biopsy procedure, and in the melanoma patient follow-up. Additionally, US may guide a number of percutaneous procedures in the melanoma patients, encompassing diagnostic and therapeutic modalities. These include fine needle cytology, core biopsy, placement of presurgical guidewires, aspiration of lymphoceles and seromas, and electrochemotherapy