Simulation of Radiative Transfer Within X-ray Microcalorimeter Absorbers.

We present Monte Carlo simulations of radiative transfer within the absorbers of X-ray microcalorimeters, utilizing a numerical model for the photon propagation and photon absorption process within the absorber structure. In our model, we include effects of Compton scattering off bound electrons and fluorescence. Scattered or fluorescence photons as well as Auger and photoelectrons escaping the absorber can result in partial energy depositions. By implementing a simplified description of the physical processes compared to existing comprehensive particle transport software frameworks, our model aims to provide representative results at a small computational effort. This approach makes it possible to use our model for quick assessments, parametric studies, and application in other Monte Carlo-based instrument simulators like SIXTE, a software package for X-ray astronomical instrumentation. To study the impact of the energy loss effects on the spectral response of a microcalorimeter, we apply our model to the sensors of the cryogenic X-ray spectrometer X-IFU onboard the future Athena X-ray observatory.

Illustrations of the anatomical wax model collection in the "La Specola" Zoology Museum, Florence.

Anatomical illustration has evolved through the centuries, first having artistic and educational purposes and later more strictly medical objectives. Between the eleventh and fifteenth centuries, the analytical model (representation of individual parts, organs and systems) gave way to the composite model (description of the human body as a whole). Between the seventeenth and eighteenth centuries, there was a reversal of tendency: initially the anatomist requested the help of artists, but later the artist asked anatomists to check the accuracy of his work. In this way, anatomical illustration reached a high level of precision. This period also saw the creation of the "La Specola" Zoology Museum's collection of anatomical wax models. Initiated in the eighteenth century, it also included a series of contemporary colour illustrations executed by various artists. Most of the illustrations concern human anatomy, while a small number deal with comparative anatomy. These illustrations, each accompanied by one or more explanatory sheets, were produced to help explain the corresponding wax models. The anatomical wax model collection has been well preserved through the centuries, maintaining its ancient splendour, and it is the object of continuing research and restoration interventions.

The prevalence of thermophilic actinomycetes in sugar cane related environments and precipitins in the population in Puerto Rico.

Estudios de nuestras relacionadas a la cana de azucar y otras fuentes ambientales demuestran que los dos principales actinomicetos termofilicos aislados en las planicies de la costa Sur de Puerto Rico son Thermoactinomyces candidus y T.vulgaris. Muestras de aires tomadas al momento que hay quema de la cana demuestran la aislacion de un gran numero de actinomicetos termofilicos mientras que los resultados son negativos cuando no hay quema de la cana