Time-resolved X-ray diffraction diagnostic development for the National Ignition Facility

We present the development of an experimental platform that can collect four frames of x-ray diffraction data along a single line of sight during laser-driven, dynamic-compression experiments at the National Ignition Facility. The platform is comprised of a diagnostic imager built around ultrafast sensors with a 2-ns integration time, a custom target assembly that serves also to shield the imager, and a 10-ns duration, quasi-monochromatic x-ray source produced by laser-generated plasma. We demonstrate the performance with diffraction data for Pb ramp compressed to 150 GPa and illuminated by a Ge x-ray source that produces ∼7 × 1011, 10.25-keV photons/ns at the 400 μm diameter sample.

A combined MeV-neutron and x-ray source for the National Ignition Facility

In support of future radiation-effects testing, a combined environment source has been developed for the National Ignition Facility (NIF), utilizing both NIF's long-pulse beams, and the Advanced Radiographic Capability (ARC) short pulse lasers. First, ARC was used to illuminate a gold foil at high-intensity, generating a significant x-ray signal >1 MeV. This was followed by NIF 10 ns later to implode an exploding pusher target filled with fusionable gas for neutron generation. The neutron and x-ray bursts were incident onto a retrievable, close-standoff diagnostic snout. With separate control over both neutron and x-ray emission, the platform allows for tailored photon and neutron fluences and timing on a recoverable test sample. The platform exceeded its initial fluence goals, demonstrating a neutron fluence of 2.3 ×10¹³ n/cm² and an x-ray dose of 7 krad.

Right heart dysfunction and readmission risk across left ventricular ejection fraction status in patients with acute heart failure

Background

Right heart dysfunction (RHD) parameters, such as right ventricular to pulmonary artery uncoupling or significant tricuspid regurgitation (TR) are increasingly important in heart failure (HF), especially in patients with preserved ejection fraction. In this study, we aimed to evaluate the association of advanced RHD with the risk of recurrent admissions across the spectrum of left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF).

Methods

We included 3,383 consecutive patients discharged for acute HF (AHF). Of them, in 1,435 (42.4%) pulmonary artery systolic pressure (PASP) could not be accurately measured, leaving a final sample size of 1,948 patients. Advanced RHD was defined as the combination of a ratio of tricuspid annular plane systolic excursion (TAPSE)/PASP<0.36 and a significant functional TR (n=196, 10.2%). Negative binomial regression analyses were used to evaluate the risk of recurrent admissions.

Results

At a median follow up of 2.2 years (IQR=0.63–4.71), 3,782 readmissions were registered in 1,296 patients (66.5%). Patients with advanced RHD showed higher rates of readmissions, but only if LVEF≥40% (p<0.001). In multivariable analyses, this differential association persisted for CV and HF recurrent admissions (p-value for interaction=0.016 and p=0.020; respectively). Advanced RHD was independently associated with the risk of recurrent CV and HF admissions if HF with LVEF≥40% (IRR: 1.99, 95% CI: 1.47–2.69, p<0.001; and IRR: 2.02, 95% CI: 1.45–2.81, p<0.001; respectively). In contrast, it was not associated with readmission risks if LVEF<40%.

Conclusion

Following an admission for AHF, advanced RHD was strongly associated with a higher risk of recurrent CV and HF admissions, but only in patients with LVEF≥40%.

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding sources: None.

Developing "inverted-corona" fusion targets as high-fluence neutron sources

We present experimental studies of inverted-corona targets as neutron sources at the OMEGA Laser Facility and the National Ignition Facility (NIF). Laser beams are directed onto the inner walls of a capsule via laser-entrance holes (LEHs), heating the target interior to fusion conditions. The fusion fuel is provided either as a wall liner, e.g., deuterated plastic (CD), or as a gas fill, e.g., D₂ gas. Such targets are robust to low-mode drive asymmetries, allowing for single-sided laser drive. On OMEGA, 1.8-mm-diameter targets with either a 10-μm CD liner or up to 2 atm of D₂-gas fill were driven with up to 18 kJ of laser energy in a 1-ns square pulse. Neutron yields of up to 1.5 × 10¹⁰ generally followed expected trends with fill pressure or laser energy, although the data imply some mix of the CH wall into the fusion fuel for either design. Comparable performance was observed with single-sided (1x LEH) or double-sided (2x LEH) drive. NIF experiments tested the platform at scaled up dimensions and energies, combining a 15-μm CD liner and a 3-atm D₂-gas fill in a 4.5-mm diameter target, laser-driven with up to 330 kJ. Neutron yields up to 2.6 × 10¹² were measured, exceeding the scaled yield expectation from the OMEGA data. The observed energy scaling on the NIF implies that the neutron production is gas dominated, suggesting a performance boost from using deuterium-tritium (DT) gas. We estimate that neutron yields exceeding 10¹⁴ should be readily achievable using a modest laser drive of ∼300 kJ with a DT fill.

Foam-lined hohlraum, inertial confinement fusion experiments on the National Ignition Facility

Experiments on the National Ignition Facility (NIF) to study hohlraums lined with a 20-mg/cc 400-μm-thick Ta_{2}O_{5} aerogel at full scale (hohlraum diameter = 6.72 mm) are reported. Driven with a 1.6-MJ, 450-TW laser pulse, the performance of the foam liner is diagnosed using implosion hot-spot symmetry measurements of the high-density carbon (HDC) capsule and measurement of inner beam propagation through a thin-wall 8-μm Au window in the hohlraum. Results show an improved capsule performance due to laser energy deposition further inside the hohlraum, leading to a modest increase in x-ray drive and reduced preheat due to changes in the x-ray spectrum when the foam liner is included. In addition, the outer cone bubble uniformity is improved, but the predicted improvement in inner beam propagation to improve symmetry control is not realized for this foam thickness and density.

Identifying anti-Toxocara IgG antibodies in horses of Mexico

ABSTRACT Both the presence of owned dogs and stray dogs allows the spread of Toxocara, a parasite whose eggs can be found in soil, water and food. Animals, including horses, serve as definitive and paratenic hosts. In México, where consumption of horse meat is common, Toxocara is a zoonotic parasite. The aim of this study was to identify the presence of anti-Toxocara antibodies in work horses and horses intended for human consumption by ELISA. ELISA was chosen for analysis as paratenic hosts do not shed Toxocara eggs in their feces. Blood samples were collected from a total of 188 horses, 94 of which were work horses and 94 horses from the slaughter house. Samples were analyzed by ELISA, and the general equine seroprevalence was found to be 44.6% (n = 188). Adult horses for slaughter had a 61.7% greater presence of anti-Toxocara antibodies (p = 0.006). Toxocara IgG antibodies were found in horses, confirming that horses are paratenic hosts and possible sources of infection for other animals and people.

Synchronous multiple primary malignant neoplasms of the breast, colon and vulva. A case report

Synchronous multiple primary malignant neoplasms of different tissues or organs are being documented with increasing frequency. Awareness among clinicians is essential to the evaluation and follow-up of these patients. A rare case of the simultaneous occurrence of vulvar, breast and colon carcinoma underlines this fact.

Aortic node metastases with negative pelvic nodes in cervical cancer

A case of invasive squamous cell carcinoma of the cervix with aortic lymph node metastases in the absence of pelvic lymph node metastases is described. The spread of squamous cell carcinoma of the cervix is briefly reviewed.

Myositis of chronic graft versus host disease

A 13-year-old girl with chronic graft versus host disease (GVHD) developed severe proximal weakness. Muscle biopsy showed necrotic fibers with anti-IgG deposits and interstitial inflammation. Steroid treatment helped, but her weakness recurred. Repeat biopsy showed persistent inflammation and possible steroid myotoxicity. Numerical ratio of capillaries to myofibers and capillary numerical density were higher than childhood dermatomyositis (CD), and capillaries had no tubuloreticular inclusions. Absence of quantitative histologic, ultrastructural, or immunocytochemical abnormalities of capillaries differentiated our patient from CD. We conclude that myositis of chronic GVHD can present as a severe myopathy that responds to steroids and differs from CD.

Successful treatment of far-advanced progressive systemic sclerosis by D-penicillamine

A 52-yr-old man had chronic recurrent pseudo-obstruction of the colon, along with multisystem disease secondary to progressive systemic sclerosis (PSS). D-Penicillamine treatment reversed the PSS, which involved the duodenum, small and large intestines, lungs, myocardium, and proximal and peripheral skin. The improvement was documented by electrocardiogram pulmonary function studies, roentgenography of gastrointestinal tract, and by repeated skin biopsies. Hand blood-volume studies using 99m Tc also revealed improvement of PSS in both hands. A variable degree of improvement was documented in seven additional patients with PSS. Follow-up periods were 18 mo to 4 yr. The most common side effect of the drug was transient hypogeusia, and no patient showed a serious side effect. This article includes a review of the literature on penicillamine therapy for PSS.