Understanding the nucleon spin structure in the regime where the strong interaction becomes truly strong poses a challenge to both experiment and theory. At energy scales below the nucleon mass of about 1 GeV, the intense interaction among the quarks and gluons inside the nucleon makes them highly correlated. Their coherent behaviour causes the emergence of effective degrees of freedom, requiring the application of non-perturbative techniques such as chiral effective field theory(1). Here we present measurements of the neutron's generalized spin polarizabilities that quantify the neutron's spin precession under electromagnetic fields at very low energy-momentum transfer squared down to 0.035 GeV2. In this regime, chiral effective field theory calculations(2-4) are expected to be applicable. Our data, however, show a strong discrepancy with these predictions, presenting a challenge to the current description of the neutron's spin properties.
The spin-structure functions g_1 and g_2, and the spin-dependent partial cross-section \sigma_{TT} have been extracted from the polarized cross-sections differences, \Delta \sigma_{||}(\nu,Q^2) and \Delta \sigma_{\perp}(\nu,Q^2) measured for the 3He(e,e')X reaction at Jefferson Lab. Polarized electrons with energies from 1.147 to 4.404 GeV were scattered at angles of 6^o and 9^o from a longitudinally or transversely polarized 3He target. The data cover the kinematic regions of the quasi-elastic, resonance and beyond. From the extracted spin-structure functions, the first moments \Gamma_1(Q^2), \Gamma_2(Q^2) and I_{TT}(Q^2) are evaluated with high precision for the neutron in the Q^2 range from 0.035 to 0.24 GeV^2. Finally, these low Q^2 results are used to test chiral perturbation theory calculations.
BACKGROUND:Spreadsheet software is increasingly used to implement systems science models informing health policy decisions, both in academia and in practice where technical capacity may be limited. However, spreadsheet models are prone to unintentional errors that may not always be identified using standard error-checking techniques. Our objective was to illustrate, through a methodologic case study analysis, the impact of unintentional errors on model projections by implementing parallel model versions.METHODS:We leveraged a real-world need to revise an existing spreadsheet model designed to inform HIV policy. We developed three parallel versions of a previously validated spreadsheet-based model; versions differed by the spreadsheet cell-referencing approach (named single cells; column/row references; named matrices). For each version, we implemented three model revisions (re-entry into care; guideline-concordant treatment initiation; immediate treatment initiation). After standard error-checking, we identified unintentional errors by comparing model output across the three versions. Concordant model output across all versions was considered error-free. We calculated the impact of unintentional errors as the percentage difference in model projections between model versions with and without unintentional errors, using +/-5% difference to define a material error.RESULTS:We identified 58 original and 4,331 propagated unintentional errors across all model versions and revisions. Over 40% (24/58) of original unintentional errors occurred in the column/row reference model version; most (23/24) were due to incorrect cell references. Overall, >20% of model spreadsheet cells had material unintentional errors. When examining error impact along the HIV care continuum, the percentage difference between versions with and without unintentional errors ranged from +3% to +16% (named single cells), +26% to +76% (column/row reference), and 0% (named matrices).CONCLUSIONS:Standard error-checking techniques may not identify all errors in spreadsheet-based models. Comparing parallel model versions can aid in identifying unintentional errors and promoting reliable model projections, particularly when resources are limited.
Former Eastern bloc countries are major sources for sex trafficking. Estimates of the extent of trafficking out of these countries vary widely, and little knowledge exists on the effectiveness of anti-trafficking efforts. The objective of this work was to adapt microsimulation modeling to assess the impact of intervention efforts to combat sex trafficking out of Eastern Europe. We estimated trends of sex trafficking and compared interventions in terms of their reduction in sex trafficking. The overall incidence of sex trafficking out of Eastern Europe is projected to decrease, from about 140,000 women and children in 2007 to about 50,000 in 2017. However, the incidence rate increased in 2009 and 2012, consistent with the global recession. The most effective interventions are economic growth, followed closely by increased access to secondary education and restrictions on migration. Minimal reduction is achieved by raising awareness of the phenomenon and increasing TV usage. Yet, the primary mechanism currently being used to prevent sex trafficking out of Eastern Europe is public awareness campaigns. Efforts should focus more on boosting the economy, increasing access to secondary education, and facilitating dialogue about how to promote legal immigration avenues.
A. Acha, S. Abrahamyan, Z. Ahmed, H. Albataineh, K. Aniol, D. S. Armstrong, W. Armstrong, J. Arrington, T. Averett, B. Babineau, S.L.Bailey, J. Barber, A. Barbieri, A. Beck, V. Bellini, R. Beminiwattha, H. Benaoum, J. Benesch, F. Benmokhtar, P. Bertin, T. Bielarski, W. Boeglin, P. Bosted, F. Butaru, E. Burtin, J. Cahoon, A. Camsonne, M. Canan, P. Carter, C.C. Chang, G. D. Cates, Y.-C. Chao, C. Chen, J.-P. Chen, Seoho Choi, E. Chudakov, E. Cisbani, 17 B. Craver, F. Cusanno, ∗ M. M. Dalton, R. De Leo, K. de Jager, 48 W. Deconinck, 7 P. Decowski, D. Deepa, X. Deng, A. Deur, D. Dutta, A. Etile, C. Ferdi, R. J. Feuerbach, J.M. Finn, † D. Flay, G. B. Franklin, M. Friend, S. Frullani, E. Fuchey, 39 S.A. Fuchs, K. Fuoti, F. Garibaldi, E. Gasser, R. Gilman, A. Giusa, A. Glamazdin, L.E. Glesener, J. Gomez, J. Grames, K. Grimm, C. Gu, O. Hansen, J. Hansknecht, O. Hen, D. W. Higinbotham, R. S. Holmes, T. Holmstrom, C. J. Horowitz, J. Hoskins, J. Huang, T.B. Humensky, C. E. Hyde, 6 H. Ibrahim, F. Itard, C.-M. Jen, E. Jensen, X. Jiang, G. Jin, S. Johnston, J. Katich, L.J. Kaufman, A. Kelleher, K. Kliakhandler, P.M. King, A. Kolarkar, S. Kowalski, E. Kuchina, K. S. Kumar, L. Lagamba, D. Lambert, P. LaViolette, J. Leacock, J. Leckey IV, J. H. Lee, 30 J. J. LeRose, D. Lhuillier, R. Lindgren, N. Liyanage, N. Lubinsky, J. Mammei, F. Mammoliti, D.J. Margaziotis, P. Markowitz, M. Mazouz, K. McCormick, A. McCreary, D. McNulty, D.G. Meekins, L. Mercado, Z.-E. Meziani, R. W. Michaels, M. Mihovilovic, B. Moffit, P. Monoghan, N. Muangma, C. Muñoz-Camacho, S. Nanda, V. Nelyubin, D. Neyret, N. Nuruzzaman, Y. Oh, K. Otis, A. Palmer, D. Parno, K. D. Paschke, S. K. Phillips, M. Poelker, R. Pomatsalyuk, M. Posik, M. Potokar, K. Prok, A.J.R. Puckett, X. Qian, Y. Qiang, ‡ B. Quinn, A. Rakhman, P. E. Reimer, B. Reitz, S. Riordan, J. Roche, § P. Rogan, G. Ron, G. Russo, K. Saenboonruang, A. Saha, † B. Sawatzky, A. Shahinyan, 40 R. Silwal, J. Singh, S. Sirca, K. Slifer, R. Snyder, P. Solvignon, P. A. Souder, ¶ M. L. Sperduto, R. Subedi, M.L. Stutzman, R. Suleiman, V. Sulkosky, C. M. Sutera, W. A. Tobias, W. Troth, G. M. Urciuoli, P. Ulmer, A. Vacheret, A. Voutier, B. Waidyawansa, D. Wang, K. Wang, J. Wexler, A. Whitbeck, R. Wilson, B. Wojtsekhowski, X. Yan, H. Yao, Y. Ye, Z. Ye, 48 V. Yim, L. Zana, X. Zhan, J. Zhang, Y. Zhang, X. Zheng, V. Ziskin, and P. Zhu
The parity-violating asymmetry arising from inelastic electron-nucleon scattering at backward angle ( 95 degrees) near the Delta(1232) resonance has been measured using a hydrogen target. From this asymmetry, we extracted the axial transition form factor G^A_NΔ, a function of the axial Adler form factors C^A_i. Though G^A_NΔ has been previously studied using charged current reactions, this is the first measurement of the weak neutral current excitation of the Delta using a proton target. For Q^2 = 0.34 (GeV/c)^2 and W = 1.18 GeV, the asymmetry was measured to be -33.4 ±(5.3)_stat ±(5.1)_sys ppm. The value of G^A_NΔ determined from the hydrogen asymmetry was -0.05 ±(0.35)_stat ±(0.34)_sys ±(0.06)_theory. These findings agree within errors with theoretical predictions for both the total asymmetry and the form factor. In addition to the hydrogen measurement, the asymmetry was measured at the same kinematics using a deuterium target. The asymmetry for deuterium was determined to be -43.6 ±(14.6)_stat ±(6.2)_sys ppm.
We have measured the beam-normal single-spin asymmetry $A_n$ in the elastic scattering of 1-3 GeV transversely polarized electrons from $^1$H and for the first time from $^4$He, $^{12}$C, and $^{208}$Pb. For $^1$H, $^4$He and $^{12}$C, the measurements are in agreement with calculations that relate $A_n$ to the imaginary part of the two-photon exchange amplitude including inelastic intermediate states. Surprisingly, the $^{208}$Pb result is significantly smaller than the corresponding prediction using the same formalism. These results suggest that a systematic set of new $A_n$ measurements might emerge as a new and sensitive probe of the structure of heavy nuclei.
The parity-violating (PV) asymmetry of inclusive π- production in electron scattering from a liquid deuterium target was measured at backward angles. The measurement was conducted as a part of the G0 experiment, at a beam energy of 360 MeV. The physics process dominating pion production for these kinematics is quasifree photoproduction off the neutron via the Δ0 resonance. In the context of heavy-baryon chiral perturbation theory, this asymmetry is related to a low-energy constant d(Δ)- that characterizes the parity-violating γNΔ coupling. Zhu et al. calculated d(Δ)- in a model benchmarked by the large asymmetries seen in hyperon weak radiative decays, and predicted potentially large asymmetries for this process, ranging from A(γ)-=-5.2 to +5.2 ppm. The measurement performed in this work leads to A(γ)-=-0.36±1.06±0.37±0.03 ppm (where sources of statistical, systematic and theoretical uncertainties are included), which would disfavor enchancements considered by Zhu et al. proportional to V(ud)/V(us). The measurement is part of a program of inelastic scattering measurements that were conducted by the G0 experiment, seeking to determine the N-Δ axial transition form factors using PV electron scattering.
The objective was to demonstrate decision-analytic modeling in support of Child Welfare policymakers considering implementing evidence-based interventions. Outcomes included permanency (e.g., adoptions) and stability (e.g., foster placement changes). Analyses of a randomized trial of KEEP-a foster parenting intervention-and NSCAW-1 estimated placement change rates and KEEP's effects. A microsimulation model generalized these findings to other Child Welfare systems. The model projected that KEEP could increase permanency and stability, identifying strategies targeting higher-risk children and geographical regions that achieve benefits efficiently. Decision-analytic models enable planners to gauge the value of potential implementations.
We have measured the beam-normal single-spin asymmetries in elastic scattering of transversely polarized electrons from the proton, and performed the first measurement in quasielastic scattering on the deuteron, at backward angles (lab scattering angle of 108°) for Q² = 0.22 GeV²/c² and 0.63 GeV²/c² at beam energies of 362 and 687 MeV, respectively. The asymmetry arises due to the imaginary part of the interference of the two-photon exchange amplitude with that of single-photon exchange. Results for the proton are consistent with a model calculation which includes inelastic intermediate hadronic (πN) states. An estimate of the beam-normal single-spin asymmetry for the scattering from the neutron is made using a quasistatic deuterium approximation, and is also in agreement with theory.
In the G0 experiment, performed at Jefferson Lab, the parity-violating elastic scattering of electrons from protons and quasi-elastic scattering from deuterons is measured in order to determine the neutral weak currents of the nucleon. Asymmetries as small as 1 part-per-million in the scattering of a polarized electron beam are determined using a dedicated apparatus. It consists of specialized beam monitoring and control systems, a cryogenic hydrogen (or deuterium) target, and a superconducting, toroidal magnetic spectrometer equipped with plastic scintillation and aerogel Cherenkov detectors, as well as fast readout electronics for the measurement of individual events. The overall design and performance of this experimental system is discussed.
BACKGROUND:Compared with women aged 50-69 years, the lower sensitivity of mammographic screening in women aged 40-49 years is largely attributed to the lower mammographic tumor detectability and faster tumor growth in the younger women.METHODS:We used a Monte Carlo simulation model of breast cancer screening by age to estimate the median tumor size detectable on a mammogram and the mean tumor volume doubling time. The estimates were calculated by calibrating the predicted breast cancer incidence rates to the actual rates from the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) database and the predicted distributions of screen-detected tumor sizes to the actual distributions obtained from the Breast Cancer Surveillance Consortium (BCSC). The calibrated parameters were used to estimate the relative impact of lower mammographic tumor detectability vs faster tumor volume doubling time on the poorer screening outcomes in younger women compared with older women. Mammography screening outcomes included sensitivity, mean tumor size at detection, lifetime gained, and breast cancer mortality. In addition, the relationship between screening sensitivity and breast cancer mortality was investigated as a function of tumor volume doubling time, mammographic tumor detectability, and screening interval.RESULTS:Lowered mammographic tumor detectability accounted for 79% and faster tumor volume doubling time accounted for 21% of the poorer sensitivity of mammography screening in younger women compared with older women. The relative contributions were similar when the impact of screening was evaluated in terms of mean tumor size at detection, lifetime gained, and breast cancer mortality. Screening sensitivity and breast cancer mortality reduction attributable to screening were almost linearly related when comparing annual or biennial screening with no screening. However, when comparing annual with biennial screening, the greatest reduction in breast cancer mortality attributable to screening did not correspond to the greatest gain in screening sensitivity and was more strongly affected by the mammographic tumor detectability than tumor volume doubling time.CONCLUSION:The age-specific differences in mammographic tumor detection contribute more than age-specific differences in tumor growth rates to the lowered performance of mammography screening in younger women.
We have measured parity violating asymmetries in elastic electron-proton and quasi-elastic electron-deuteron scattering at backward electron angle. These measurements have been done at two momentum transfers : Q(2) = 0.22 and 0.63 (GeV/c)(2). Together with our previous forward angle measurement [1], we can extract strange quark contributions to the electromagnetic form factors of the nucleon, as well as nucleon axial form factor coming from the neutral weak interaction. The results indicate a strange quark magnetic contribution close to zero at these Q(2), and a possible non zero strange quark electric contribution for the high Q(2). The first Q(2) behavior measurement of the nucleon axial form factor in elastic electron scattering shows a good agreement with radiative corrections calculated at Q(2) = 0 and with a dipole form using the axial mass determined in neutrino scattering.
BACKGROUND Despite trials of mammography and widespread use, optimal screening policy is controversial. OBJECTIVE To evaluate U.S. breast cancer screening strategies. DESIGN 6 models using common data elements. DATA SOURCES National data on age-specific incidence, competing mortality, mammography characteristics, and treatment effects. TARGET POPULATION A contemporary population cohort. TIME HORIZON Lifetime. PERSPECTIVE Societal. INTERVENTIONS 20 screening strategies with varying initiation and cessation ages applied annually or biennially. OUTCOME MEASURES Number of mammograms, reduction in deaths from breast cancer or life-years gained (vs. no screening), false-positive results, unnecessary biopsies, and overdiagnosis. RESULTS OF BASE-CASE ANALYSIS The 6 models produced consistent rankings of screening strategies. Screening biennially maintained an average of 81% (range across strategies and models, 67% to 99%) of the benefit of annual screening with almost half the number of false-positive results. Screening biennially from ages 50 to 69 years achieved a median 16.5% (range, 15% to 23%) reduction in breast cancer deaths versus no screening. Initiating biennial screening at age 40 years (vs. 50 years) reduced mortality by an additional 3% (range, 1% to 6%), consumed more resources, and yielded more false-positive results. Biennial screening after age 69 years yielded some additional mortality reduction in all models, but overdiagnosis increased most substantially at older ages. RESULTS OF SENSITIVITY ANALYSIS Varying test sensitivity or treatment patterns did not change conclusions. LIMITATION Results do not include morbidity from false-positive results, patient knowledge of earlier diagnosis, or unnecessary treatment. CONCLUSION Biennial screening achieves most of the benefit of annual screening with less harm. Decisions about the best strategy depend on program and individual objectives and the weight placed on benefits, harms, and resource considerations. PRIMARY FUNDING SOURCE National Cancer Institute.
We report new measurements of the parity-violating asymmetry A(PV) in elastic scattering of 3 GeV electrons off hydrogen and 4He targets with approximately 6.0 degrees . The 4He result is A(PV)=(+6.40+/-0.23(stat)+/-0.12(syst))x10(-6). The hydrogen result is A(PV)=(-1.58+/-0.12(stat)+/-0.04(syst))x10(-6). These results significantly improve constraints on the electric and magnetic strange form factors G(E)(s) and G(M)(s). We extract G(E)(s)=0.002+/-0.014+/-0.007 at "=0.077 GeV2, and G(E)(s)+0.09G(M)(s)=0.007+/-0.011+/-0.006 at ""=0.109 GeV2, providing new limits on the role of strange quarks in the nucleon charge and magnetization distributions."
The goal of Experiment E04-115 (the G0 backward angle measurement) at Jefferson Lab is to investigate the contributions of strange quarks to the fundamental properties of the nucleon. The experiment measures parity-violating asymmetries in elastic electron scattering off hydrogen and quasielastic electron scattering off deuterium at backward angles at Q2 = 0.631 (GeV/c)2 and Q2 = 0.232 (GeV/c)2. The backward angle measurement represents the second phase of the G0 experiment. The first phase, Experiment E00-006 (the G0 forward angle experiment), measured parity-violating asymmetries in elastic electron scattering off hydrogen at forward angles over a Q2 range of 0.1-1.0 (GeV/c)2. The experiments used a polarized electron beam and unpolarized hydrogen and deuterium liquid targets. From these measurements, along with the electromagnetic form factors, one can extract the contribution of the strange quark to the proton's charge and magnetization distributions. This thesis represents a fi