bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Quantification of presenilin‐1 mRNA in Alzheimer's disease brains
Authors: Johnston Janet A. , Froelich Susanne , Lannfelt Lars , Cowburn Richard F.
Published: April 2003

The presenilin‐1 (PS‐1) gene on chromosome 14 carries mutations which cosegregate with early‐onset familial Alzheimer's disease. We quantified PS‐1 mRNA in post‐mortem mid‐temporal and superior frontal cortices from 14 Alzheimer's disease subjects, 9 non‐demented controls and 5 subjects with other neurological diseases using solution hybridisation‐RNase protection assay. APP and APLP2 mRNAs had previously been quantified in these samples (Johnston et al. (1996) Mol. Brain Res., in press) and subjects were apolipoprotein E (APOE) genotyped. There were no significant differences between PS‐1 mRNA levels per pg total RNA in mid‐temporal or superior frontal cortices of the Alzheimer's disease subjects, compared to controls. PS‐1 mRNA levels corresponded to 10% of total APP and 30% of APLP2 mRNA levels, and were not significantly affected by age, post‐mortem delay, tissue pH, or APOE genotype. PS‐1 mRNA showed significant positive correlations with APP and APLP2 mRNA levels in mid‐temporal cortex and with APP mRNA in superior frontal cortex. This may reflect a co‐regulation of the expression of these genes, or the fact that they are expressed in similar neuronal populations.
Extended binding sites of cyclophilin as revealed by the interaction with HIV‐1 Gag polyprotein derived oligopeptides
Authors: Schutkowski Mike , Drewello Mario , Wöllner Steffen , Jakob Mario , Reimer Ulf , Scherer Gerd , Schierhorn Angelika , Fischer Gunter
Published: April 2003

Oligopeptides derived from the gag polyprotein (Pr55gag) of human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV‐1) segment were used to evaluate the extension of the putative binding region for the complex of Pr55gag and the human cytosolic peptidyl prolyl cisltrans isomerase (PPIase) 18 kDa cyclophilin (Cyp18). Five N‐terminally acetylated, C‐terminally amidated oligopeptides containing one (HIV‐1 Gag 218–224; 1), two (HIV‐1 Gag 218–226 and HIV‐1 Gag 217−224; 2 and 3, respectively), three (HIV‐1 Gag 217–226; 4) or four (HIV‐1 Gag213−237; 5) proline residues were synthesized. Using competition experiments with a standard substrate the binding affinities to Cyp18 of the synthesized peptides were determined. The IC50 value of 184 μ.M for the 25‐mer peptide 5 was fivefold or more lower than those of the peptides 1–4 lacking one or more prolines. Failure of competition in assays containing enzymes of other PPIase families by millimolar concentrations of 5 revealed a Cyp18 specific interaction involving the active site of the enzyme. In its far UV circular dichroism, aqueous solutions of 5 display properties of random coil conformation, but spectra were also consistent with a small contribution of proline specific secondary structures. However, a proline‐rich peptide typical of forming left‐handed polyproline II helices did not compete for the active site of Cyp18. The results demonstrate that the putative binding region of HIV‐1 gag polyprotein has a certain degree of binding affinity to the PPIase site of Cyp18, and may add a previously unrecognized topological component to the known subsite specificity of cyclophilins.
Co‐ordinated downregulation of bcl‐2 and bax expression during granulocytic and macrophage‐like differentiation of the HL60 promyelocytic leukaemia cell line
Authors: Mengubas Kamuran , Riordan Fiona A. , Victor Hoffbrand A. , Gitendra Wickremasinghe R.
Published: April 2003

The bcl‐2 protein suppresses apoptosis and the bax protein opposes the cytoprotective effect of bcl‐2. A decrease in bcl‐2 levels has been implicated in the induction of apoptosis during the terminal differentiation of HL60 myeloid leukaemia cells. We show here that bax protein also declined with a time course similar to the downregulation of bcl‐2 following treatment of HL60 with phorbol myristate acetate (PMA), dimethyl sulphoxide (DMSO) or retinoic acid (RA). Decreased bcl‐2 protein expression in induced cells was associated with down‐regulation of its mRNA. By contrast, the decrease in bax occurred by a post‐transcriptional mechanism. Co‐ordinate downregulation of bcl‐2 and bax proteins may fine‐tune the induction of apoptosis during cellular differentiation.
Mutational analysis of the ATP‐binding site in HslU, the ATPase component of HslVU protease in Escherichia coli
Authors: Shin Dong Hun , Yoo Soon Ji , Shim Yoon Kyung , Seol Jae Hong , Kang Man-Sik , Chung Chin Ha
Published: April 2003

HslU is the ATPase component of the ATP‐dependent HslVU protease in Escherichia coli. To gain an insight into the structure and function of HslU, site‐directed mutagenesis was performed to generate a mutation in the ATP‐binding site of the ATPase (i.e., to replace the Lys63 with Thr). Unlike the wild‐type HslU, the mutant form (referred to as HslU/K63T) could not hydrolyze ATP or support the ATP‐dependent hydrolysis of N‐carbobenzoxy‐Gly‐Gly‐Leu‐7‐amido‐4‐methyl coumarin by HslV. The wild‐type HslU (a mixture of monomer and dimer) formed a multimer containing 6–8 subunits in the presence of either ATP or ADP, indicating that ATP‐binding, but not its hydrolysis, is required for oligomerization of HslU. However, HslU/K63T remained as a monomer whether or not the adenine nucleotides were present. Furthermore, ATP or ADP could protect HslU, but not HslU/K63T, from degradation by trypsin. These results suggest that the mutation in the ATP‐binding site results in prevention of the binding of the adenine nucleotides to HslU and hence in impairment of both oligomerization and ATPase function of HslU.
Receptor protein tyrosine kinase DDR is up‐regulated by p53 protein
Authors: Sakuma Shirou , Saya Hideyuki , Tada Mitsuhiro , Nakao Mitsuyoshi , Fujiwara Toshiyoshi , Roth Jack A. , Sawamura Yutaka , Shinohe Yumiko , Abe Hiroshi
Published: April 2003

We have previously reported on radiation‐induction of ptk‐3 in rat astrocyte culture [Sakuma et al. (1995) Radiat. Res. 143, 1–7]. Ptk‐3 was considered to be a rat version of human DDR (discoidin domain receptor). We cloned and analyzed genomic DNA of the DDR and its promoter region. We discovered that the promoter region contained a consensus sequence of the p53 tumor suppressor binding site. Adenovirusmediated p53 transfection induced a high level of DDR mRNA in SAOS2 human osteosarcoma cells. These results indicate that DDR is up‐regulated by the p53 protein.
Inhibition by penem of processing peptidases from cyanobacteria and chloroplast thylakoids
Authors: Barbrook Adrian C. , Packer Jeremy C.L. , Howe Christopher J.
Published: April 2003

Proteins targeted to the thylakoid lumen of plants and cyanobacteria and the periplasmic space of cyanobacteria are synthesised with N‐terminal presequences which are removed following translocation across the membrane. These presequences are thought to direct translocation of the preprotein by a sec‐type pathway. Detergent extracts of cyanobacterial and chloroplast membranes contain enzymes which are capable of processing precursors to the mature size. We show that the processing of a range of precursors by both cyanobacterial and chloroplast enzymes is inhibited by the penem SB216357. This is the first report of an inhibitor of these enzymes and indicates that they are type 1 signal peptidases.
Electrostatic interaction between two domains of isocitrate dehydrogenase from Thermus thermophilus is important for the catalytic function and protein stability
Authors: Yaoi Takuro , Hayashi-Iwasaki Yoko , Oshima Tairo
Published: April 2003

The role of electrostatic interaction between Lys96 and Glu47 of isocitrate dehydrogenase from Thermus thermophilus was investigated by site‐directed mutagenesis. These two residues are located near the active site and involved in the interdomain interaction. Analyses of the catalytic properties and thermostability of the Glu147Gln mutant revealed that this interaction plays important roles in catalytic function and protein stability.
An inhibitory effect of actin on casein kinase II activity in vitro
Authors: Karino Atsushi , Tanoue Shin , Fukuda Motoko , Nakamura Takeshi , Ohtsuki Kenzo
Published: April 2003

The inhibitory effect of actin on protein phosphorylation by three distinct protein kinases (CK‐II, A‐kinase and MAP‐kinase) was examined in vitro. It was found that: (i) actin inhibits the activities of α‐monomeric CK‐II (CK‐IIα) as well as oligomeric CK‐II (α
2
β
2) in a dose‐dependent manner, but has no effect on the activities of the two other kinases; and (ii) actin‐induced inhibition of CK‐II activity is due to the binding of actin to the α‐subunit of CK‐II and is non‐competitive with its phosphate acceptors. In addition, it is demonstrated that actin binds directly to CK‐II: both actin and CK‐II are coprecipitated by anti‐serum against Drosophila CK‐IIβ or by specific IgG against Ascaris suum muscle actin. The results presented here suggest that actin can suppress CK‐II‐mediated signal transduction.
Endometriosis in the presacral nerve
Authors: Abrão M.S , Podgaec S , Carvalho F.M , Pinotti J.A
Published: April 2003

Objective: The authors report a case of extremely aggressive endometriosis involving a 32‐year‐old woman. Methods: Different types of medication were used and various surgical procedures applied in order to reduce the clinical signs and symptoms. Among the surgical procedures employed was presacral neurectomy when endometriosis was identified in the presacral nerve. Results: Receptor determination in the surgical piece was negative. Conclusions: The etiopathogenic and therapeutic aspects of this process are discussed.
Impaired antioxidant activity in women with pre‐eclampsia
Authors: Sağol S , Özkinay E , Özşener S
Published: April 2003

Objective: To investigate antioxidant activity of sera and the plasma blood levels of two potent antioxidant in women with pre‐eclampsia and normotensive pregnancies. Study design: The antioxidant activity of sera and the blood levels of ascorbic acid and α‐tocopherol were assayed in women with normal pregnancies (n=33), mild pre‐eclampsia (n=8), and severe pre‐eclampsia (n=16) between 20 and 40 weeks' gestation. Ascorbic acid and α‐tocopherol concentrations were analyzed by high‐performance liquid chromatography. Antioxidant activity of sera was measured as the percent inhibition of spontaneous autoxidation of a standard brain homogenate. Results: Plasma levels of ascorbic acid in women with mild and severe pre‐eclampsia were significantly lower than normal pregnancies (P<0.05). Sera α‐tocopherol levels were significantly decreased only in severe pre‐eclampsia (P<0.05). Sera antioxidant activity were significantly decreased in mild (73%) and severe (51%) pre‐eclampsia compared with normal (86%) pregnancies (P=0.02, P=0.000, respectively). Conclusions: In women with pre‐eclampsia, sera antioxidant activity and antioxidant level of plasma are decreased when compared with normotensive pregnancies. Impaired antioxidant activity and the reduction of antioxidant levels which increase the level of lipid peroxidation products may cause peroxidative damage of vascular endothelium and result in clinical symptoms of pre‐eclampsia.
Recurrence of gynecologic malignancy at the vaginal vault after hysterectomy
Authors: Heller D.S , Kambham N , Smith D , Cracchiolo B
Published: April 2003

Objective: Vaginal vault recurrences of genital tract malignancy are not uncommon, and may be the first sign of recurrent disease. This paper reviews the experience at Columbia Presbyterian Medical Center. Methods: The tumor lists from 1993 to 1996 of the Division of Ob/Gyn Pathology at Columbia Presbyterian Medical Center were reviewed, and correlated with retrospective chart review. Results: Of 36 cases, 13 were from uterine primaries, seven were cervical in origin, eight were ovarian primaries, and in eight cases, the exact primary was not known at the time of biopsy. For the cases where the primary diagnosis and disease free interval were known, the time interval from hysterectomy to vault recurrence ranged from 1.5 months to 84 months, with a mean of 25.6 months. Conclusion: Vaginal vault recurrences are often the site of recurrent female genital tract malignancies. Patients treated for gynecological cancer must have regular pelvic examinations including cytologic examination as part of their oncologic surveillance.
Fossil oribatid mites (Acari, Oribatida) from the Florisbad Quaternary deposits, South Africa
Authors: Coetzee Louise , Brink James S
Published: April 2003

In a pioneer application of acarology to Quaternary fossil-bearing sediments in southern Africa, the oribatid composition in the Florisbad Quaternary sediments was determined and compared to the currently known distribution of those species. Nine species of oribatid mites were recorded in the Holocene aeolian deposits of the third test pit, three species from the Middle Stone Age (MSA) horizon sediments of the third test pit, and thirteen species from the Holocene spring sediments. The Florisbad results indicate a better agreement between the oribatid fauna of the last interglacial MSA horizon of the third test pit and the organic-rich mid-Holocene deposits near the spring than between either of these and early- and late-Holocene aeolian sediments of the third test pit, suggesting some similarity in microsedimentary environments. The majority of the species recorded in the sediments are parthenogenetic and can be regarded as pioneer species.
THA loading arising from increased femoral anteversion and offset may lead to critical cement stresses
Authors: Kleemann Ralf U. , Heller Markus O. , Stoeckle Ulrich , Taylor William R. , Duda Georg N.
Published: April 2003

Aseptic loosening of artificial hip joints is believed to be influenced by the design and orientation of the implant. It is hypothesised that variations in implant anteversion and offset lead to changes in the loading of the proximal femur, causing critical conditions to both the bone and cement. The goal of this study was therefore to analyse the role of these parameters on loading, bone strains and cement stresses in total hip arthroplasty (THA). A validated musculo‐skeletal model was used for the analysis of muscle and joint contact forces during walking and stair climbing. Two different anteversion angles (4° vs. 24°) and prostheses offsets (standard vs. long) were analysed. The loads for each case were applied to a cemented THA finite element model. Generally, stair climbing caused higher bone strains and cement stresses (max. +25%) than walking. Variations in anteversion and offset caused changes in the loading environment, bone strain distribution and cement stresses. Compared to the standard THA configuration, cement stresses were raised by increasing anteversion (max. +52%), offset (max. +5%) and their combination (max. +67%). Femoral anteversion, offset and their combination may therefore lead to an increased risk of implant loosening. Analyses of implant survival should consider this as a limiting factor in THA longevity. In clinical practice, implant orientation, especially in regard to pre‐ and post‐operative anteversion, should be considered to be more critical. © 2003 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.
Time, stress, and location dependent chondrocyte death and collagen damage in cyclically loaded articular cartilage
Authors: Chen Chih‐Tung , Bhargava Madhu , Lin Peggy M. , Torzilli Peter A.
Published: April 2003

We investigated the effect of light (0.1 MPa), moderate (1 MPa) or heavy (5 MPa) cyclical stresses applied continuously or intermittently for 0 to 72 h on cell death and collagen damage in adult bovine cartilage explants. No increase in cell death was observed in the cartilage loaded with a continuous cyclic stress at 0.1 MPa for up to 72 h. Cell death occurred in the uppermost superficial tangential zone (STZ) of explants after loading for 1 h at 1 MPa, and reached a maximum depth of 61 ± 23 μm by 6 h (at the rate of 9 ± 6 μm/h). At 5 MPa, cell death occurred in the STZ after as little as 1 min (30 cycles) of loading, and reached a maximum depth of 70 ± 2 μm by 60 min (47 ± 8 μm/h). When an intermittent (with 2 s on, 2 s off) stress of 5 MPa was applied, cell death appeared in the STZ after 2 min (30 cycles) and increased to a depth of 63 ± 2 μm at 60 min (45 ± 11 μm/h). No significant differences were observed between the continuous and intermittent loading conditions. Both collagenase‐cleaved and denatured collagen fibers were found in the STZ of explants loaded at 1 and 5 MPa. We concluded that load‐induced cell death depends on load duration and magnitude, and that the chondrocytes in the STZ are more vulnerable to load‐induced injury than those in the middle and deep zones. © 2003 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.
Platelets are mitogenic for periosteum‐derived cells
Authors: Gruber Reinhard , Karreth Florian , Frommlet Florian , Fischer Michael B. , Watzek Georg
Published: April 2003

The early stages of bone regeneration are associated with a high mitogenic activity of periosteal cells. Here we addressed the question of whether platelets that accumulate within the developing haematoma can account for this tissue response. Addition of platelets, platelet‐released supernatants, platelet membranes, and microparticles to bovine periosteum‐derived cells resulted in an increase in 3H‐thymidine incorporation; lipid extracts had no effect. Platelet‐released supernatants retained their activity after incubation at 56°C, but not at 100°C. Gel chromatographic analysis revealed the highest mitogenic activity at approximately 35 kD. Of the factors released from activated platelets, basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) and platelet‐derived growth factor (PDGF) increased 3H‐thymidine incorporation. The mitogenic activity of platelet‐released supernatants was decreased by anti‐PDGF, and anti‐bFGF antibodies. Platelet‐released supernatants increased the number of proliferating periosteum‐derived cells as determined by the expression pattern of Ki67. Platelet‐released supernatants also resulted in a stimulation of cell proliferation in periosteal explants. These results suggest that platelets have the potential to stimulate the mitogenic response of the periosteum during bone repair. © 2003 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.
Implicit and Explicit Knowledge Decay at Different Rates: A Dissociation Between Priming and Recognition in Artificial Grammar Learning
Authors: Tunney Richard J.
Published: April 2003

Abstract. An experiment tested the common assumption that implicit and explicit knowledge are forgotten at different rates. In a training phase participants responded to sequences of letters generated by a finite-state grammar by pressing corresponding letters on a keyboard. A control group responded to randomized sequences. Participants were tested immediately following training and after intervals of seven and fourteen days. During each test participants responded to the letters of old and new sequences, and performed a concurrent recognition test. Priming was indexed by the time taken to respond to the sequences. In the immediate test both priming and recognition were substantially greater than the control group. In the delayed tests the level of priming remained unchanged but recognition had declined. The data indicate that priming and recognition decay at different rates, and are discussed with reference to both single and dual process models of memory.
Collagen‐induced resistance to glucocorticoid anti‐mitogenic actions: a potential explanation of smooth muscle hyperplasia in the asthmatic remodelled airway
Authors: Bonacci John V , Harris Trudi , Wilson John W , Stewart Alastair G
Published: April 2003

Glucocorticoids (GCS) inhibit mitogenesis of airway smooth muscle (ASM) cells grown on plastic. We have now evaluated the effects of GCS on proliferation of ASM grown on extracellular matrix proteins (ECM) abundant in noninflamed airways (laminin) and in fibrotic asthmatic airways (collagen type I). Dexamethasone inhibited basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF)‐induced proliferation in cells maintained on laminin, but not collagen. Cells grown on collagen were resistant to the anti‐mitogenic actions of fluticasone propionate. In addition, dexamethasone did not inhibit thrombin‐induced proliferation. Thus, resistance induced by collagen is not dependent on the mitogen and appears to be a class effect on GCS. The inhibition of bFGF‐induced granulocyte–macrophage colony‐stimulating factor production was unaffected by the ECM type on which cells were grown. The impaired anti‐mitogenic activity of GCS in cells maintained on collagen may be due to a lack of efficacy against the collagen‐amplified mitogenesis, rather than any defect in responsiveness that is specific to glucocorticoid receptor mechanisms.

British Journal of Pharmacology (2003) 138, 1203–1206. doi:10.1038/sj.bjp.0705135
Brain CYP2E1 is induced by nicotine and ethanol in rat and is higher in smokers and alcoholics
Authors: Howard Lisa A , Miksys Sharon , Hoffmann Ewa , Mash Deborah , Tyndale Rachel F
Published: April 2003

Ethanol and nicotine are commonly coabused drugs. Cytochrome P450 2E1 (CYP2E1) metabolizes ethanol and bioactivates tobacco‐derived procarcinogens. Ethanol and nicotine can induce hepatic CYP2E1 and we hypothesized that both centrally active drugs could also induce CYP2E1 within the brain.

Male rats were treated with saline, ethanol (3.0 g kg−1 by gavage) or nicotine (1.0 mg kg−1 s.c.) for 7 days. Ethanol treatment significantly increased CYP2E1 in olfactory bulbs (1.7‐fold), frontal cortex (2.0‐fold), hippocampus (1.9‐fold) and cerebellum (1.8‐fold), while nicotine induced CYP2E1 in olfactory bulbs (2.3‐fold), frontal cortex (3.0‐fold), olfactory tubercle (3.1‐fold), cerebellum (2.5‐fold) and brainstem (2.0‐fold). Immunocytochemical analysis revealed that the induction was cell‐type specific.

Consistent with the increased CYP2E1 found in rat brain following drug treatments, brains from alcoholics and alcoholic smokers showed greater staining of granular cells of the dentate gyrus and the pyramidal cells of CA2 and CA3 hippocampal regions as well as of cerebellar Purkinje cells compared to nonalcoholic nonsmokers. Moreover, greater CYP2E1 immunoreactivity was observed in the frontal cortices in the alcoholic smokers in comparison to nonalcoholic nonsmokers and alcoholic nonsmokers.

To investigate if nicotine could contribute to the increased CYP2E1 observed in alcoholic smokers, we treated human neuroblastoma IMR‐32 cells in culture and found significantly higher CYP2E1 immunostaining in nicotine‐treated cells (0.1–10 nM).

CYP2E1 induction in the brain, by ethanol or nicotine, may influence the central effects of ethanol and the development of nervous tissue pathologies observed in alcoholics and smokers.

British Journal of Pharmacology (2003) 138, 1376–1386. doi:10.1038/sj.bjp.0705146
A2A and A3 receptors mediate the adenosine‐induced relaxation in spontaneously active possum duodenum in vitro
Authors: Woods C M , Toouli J , Saccone G T P
Published: April 2003

The aim of this study was to define the P1 purinergic receptors that regulate spontaneous or adenosine‐induced duodenal motor activity.

Spontaneous contractile activity was recorded isometrically from possum longitudinal duodenal muscle strips. Adenosine (0.5 μM–1 mM) was administered noncumulatively and repeated after pretreatment with a P1 antagonist or tetrodotoxin (TTX, 1 μM), (n=4–7). Antagonists used were: A1, 8‐cyclopentyl‐1,3‐dipropylxanthine (DPCPX, 10 nM); A2A, 8‐(3‐chlorostyryl)caffeine (CSC, 10 μM); A2B, 3‐isobutyl‐8‐pyrrolidinoxanthine (IPDX, 10 μM); A3, 9‐chloro‐2‐(2‐furanyl)‐5‐[(phenylacetyl) amino][1,2,4]‐triazolo(1,5‐c)quinazoline (MRS1220, 10 μM). Changes in activity are expressed as percentage of baseline. Statistical analysis utilised nonparametric tests.

Adenosine (n=34) induced a long‐lasting, concentration‐dependent decrease in activity by 55.6±3.2% area under curve (AUC), 47.3±4.0% contraction amplitude, 31.6±3.6% basal tension and 10.4±1.7% contraction frequency (all P<0.001). The adenosine‐induced decrease in contraction amplitude was blocked by CSC (P<0.01) or inhibited by MRS1220 (P<0.03) pretreatment, but not modified by TTX, DPCPX or IPDX pretreatment.

Adenosine antagonists modified spontaneous contractile activity. Pretreatment with DPCPX or CSC increased basal tension, whereas IPDX or MRS1220 pretreatment decreased contractile activity.

In conclusion, exogenous adenosine reduced duodenal longitudinal motor activity via A2A and A3 receptors. Our findings suggest that endogenous purines may modulate spontaneous duodenal motor activity.

British Journal of Pharmacology (2003) 138, 1333–1339. doi:10.1038/sj.bjp.0705165
NEUTRINOS IN EXTREMELY STRONG MAGNETIC FIELDS
Authors: MARTÍNEZ A. PÉREZ , ROJAS H. PÉREZ , AGÜERO D. OLIVA , HECHAVARRÍA A. AMÉZAGA , ROMO S. RODRÍGUEZ
Published: April 2003

We compute the dispersion curves for neutrinos propagating in a very dense electroweak plasma, in magnetic fields of order [Formula: see text]. The neutrino self-energy is calculated in the one-loop approximation. The dispersion equation is solved for motion parallel and perpendicular to the external magnetic field. We obtain an effective neutrino mass which increases with the magnetic field, up to values B where threshold energy for creation of W± pairs (out from the thermal background) is reached.
GRAVITATIONAL LENSING STATISTICS AND CONSTRAINTS ON THE COSMOLOGICAL CONSTANT REVISITED
Authors: CHENG YU-CHUNG N. , KRAUSS LAWRENCE M.
Published: April 2003

We re-analyze constraints on the cosmological constant that can be obtained by examining the statistics of strong gravitational lensing of distant quasars by intervening galaxies, focusing on uncertainties in galaxy models (including velocity dispersion, luminosity functions, core radii and magnification bias effects) and on the parameters of the galaxy distribution and luminosity functions. In the process we derive new results on magnification biasing for galaxy lenses with nonzero core radii, and on how to infer the proper velocity dispersions appropriate for use in lensing statistics. We argue that the existing data do not disfavor a large cosmological constant. In fact, for a set of reasonable parameter choices, using the results of five optical quasar lensing surveys we find that a maximum likelihood analysis favors a value of Ω0 in the range ≈ 0.25–0.55 in a flat universe. An open cosmology is not favored by the same statistical analysis. Systematic uncertainties are likely to be dominant, however, as these results are sensitive to uncertainties in our understanding of galaxy luminosity functions, and dark matter velocity dispersions, as well as the choice of lensing survey, and to a lesser extent the existence of core radii. Further observational work will be required before it is possible to definitively distinguish between cosmological models on the basis of gravitational lensing statistics.
BIG BANG IN AdS5 WITH EXTERNAL FIELD AND FLAT 4d UNIVERSE
Authors: GORSKY A. S. , SELIVANOV K. G.
Published: April 2003

We describe the spontaneous creation of the brane world in AdS 5 with external field. The resulting brane world consists of a flat 4d spatially finite expanding universe and curved expanding "regulator" branes. No negative tension branes are involved.
THE SEMIRELATIVISTIC EQUATION VIA THE SHIFTED-l EXPANSION TECHNIQUE
Authors: BARAKAT T.
Published: April 2003

The semirelativistic wave equation which appears in the theory of relativistic quark–antiquark bound states, is cast into a constituent second order Schrödinger-like equation with the inclusion of relativistic corrections up to order (v/c)2 in the quarks speeds. The resulting equation is solved via the Shifted-l expansion technique (SLET), which has been recently developed to get eigenvalues and wave functions of relativistic and nonrelativistic wave equations. The Coulomb, Oscillator, and the Coulomb-plus-linear potentials used in [Formula: see text] phenomenology are tested. It is observed that, the energy eigenvalues can be explained well upon the more commonly used nonrelativistic models, when such a dynamical relativistic corrections are introduced. In particular, it provides a remarkable accurate and simple analytic expression for the Coulomb ground-state energy problem, a result which is in the right direction at least to serve as a test of this approach.
NON-PERTURBATIVE DYNAMICS
Authors: DALLEY SIMON
Published: April 2003

I review some of the progress over the past 12 months in understanding non-perturbative (QCD) dynamics, using Euclidean lattice QCD, the Quark Model, Dyson-Schwinger equations, and light-front quantisation. I discuss b-physics, the OZI rule, the quark and gluon propagators, glueballs, 1/Nc expansions, and other things.
Kl4 Decays
Authors: Li Bing An
Published: April 2003

An effective theory of large NC QCD of mesons has been used to study six Kl4 decay modes. PCAC is satisfied. A relationship between three form factors of axial-vector current has been found. ρ → ππ plays important role. the decay rates are calculated in the chiral limit. There is no adjustable parameter.
FORM FACTORS OF PION AND KAON
Authors: GAO JUN , Li Bing An
Published: April 2003

The form factors of pion and kaon are studied by an effective chiral theory of large NC QCD. Besides the vector meson poles an additional intrinsic form factors are found. Theory agrees well with data in both time-like and space-like regions. There is no adjustable parameter.
PROPERTIES OF THE HADRONIC FINAL STATE IN DIFFRACTIVE DEEP INELASTIC ep SCATTERING USING THE ZEUS DETECTOR AT HERA
Authors: WICHMANN RIKO , WILLIAMS DAVID C.
Published: April 2003

Characteristics of the hadronic final state of diffractive DIS events ep → epX were studied with the ZEUS detector at HERA with an integrated luminosity of 13.8 pb -1 collected in 1997. The events were tagged by identifying the diffractively scattered proton using the Leading Proton Spectrometer.
A Comparison of the Underlying Event in Jet and Minimum Bias Events
Authors:   for the CDF Collaboration, HUSTON JOEY
Published: April 2003

In order to determine more accurately the energy contribution in a jet cone due to the underlying event, and in oder to understand better the ambient event environment at both the Tevatron and the LHC, a study has been carried out in CDF of the energy distribution in a cone of radius 0.7 in both jet and in minimum bias events. The results from CDF data from Run 1b have been compared with results from [Formula: see text] passed through the detector simulation program QFL.2
MEASUREMENT OF THE b QUARK FRAGMENTATION FUNCTION IN Z0 DECAYS
Authors:   REPRESENTING THE SLD COLLABORATION, NESOM GAVIN
Published: April 2003

We present preliminary results of a new measurement of the inclusive b quark fragmentation function in Z0 decays using a novel kinematic B hadron energy reconstruction technique. We measure the B energy with good efficiency and resolution over the full kinematic range. We compare the scaled energy distribution of weakly decaying B hadrons with the predictions of several models of b quark fragmentation, and also test several hypothesized functional forms. We exclude many of these models and functional forms, and we present a corrected distribution with a small and well defined model dependence. The mean scaled energy is measured to be xB = 0.710 ± 0.003 (stat) ± 0.005 (syst) ± 0.004 (model) (preliminary).
Correlations Between Identified Charged Hadrons in Hadronic Z0 Decays
Authors:   Representing the SLD collaboration, Muller David , Nesom Gavin
Published: April 2003

We have studied rapidity correlations between pairs of identified π±, K± and [Formula: see text]. Short-range charge correlations are observed between all combinations of these hadron species, indicating local conservation of quantum numbers and charge ordering in the jet fragmentation process. Long-range correlations are observed in u, d, s-flavor events for all pair types, providing new information on leading particle production. Different correlations observed in c- and b-events are consistent with expectation for B and D hadron decays. The SLC electron beam polarization was used to tag the quark hemisphere in each event, allowing the fist study of rapidities such that positive rapidity is along the quark rather than antiquark direction. Orderd differences in signed rapidity between pairs of particles provide many new probes of the fragmentation process, including the first direct observation of baryon number ordering along the quark-antiquark axis.
A Preliminary Study of the Structure of $b\bar bg$ Events using Z0 Decays
Authors:   Representing the SLD Collaboration, AKIMOTO HIDEMI
Published: April 2003

The structure of three-jet [Formula: see text] events has been studied using hadronic Z0 decays recorded in the SLD experiment at SLAC. Three-jet final states were selected and the CCD-based vertex detector was used to identify two of the jets as [Formula: see text]. The remaining jet in each event was tagged as a gluon jet, and distributions of the gluon energy and polar angle with respect to the electron beam were examined and were compared with perturbative QCD predictions. These distributions are potentially sensitive to an anomalous b chromomagnetic moment κ. We compare our data with theoretical predictions including such a moment and discuss limits on the value of κ.
NEW R VALUES FROM 2-5 GEV FROM THE BESII AT BEPC
Authors: KONG DERRICK
Published: April 2003

We report preliminary R values for all 85 energy points scanned in the energy region of 2-5 GeV with the upgraded Beijing Spectrometer (BESII) at the Beijing Electron Positron Collider (BEPC). The typical uncertainties on the R values we measured are ~ 7%. The new R values have a significant impact on the predicted mass of the Higgs (mH) coming from the global fit to the electroweak data, and will also contribute to the interpretation of the E821 g - 2 experiment.
MUON g-2 EXPERIMENT AT BROOKHAVEN NATIONAL LABORATORY
Authors: Ozben C. S. , Brown H. N. , Bunce G. , Carey R. M. , Cushman P. , Danby G. T. , Debevec P. T. , Deng H. , Deninger W. , Dhawan S. K. , Druzhinin V. P. , Duong L. , Earle W. , Efstathiadia E. , Farley F. J. M. , Fedotovich G. V. , Giron S. , Gray F. , Grosse-Perdekamp M. , Grossmann A. , Haeberlen U. , Hazen E. S. , Hertzog D. W. , Hertzog V. W. , Iwasaki M. , Jungmann K. , Kawall D. , Kawamura M. , Khazin B. I. , Kindem J. , Krienen F. , Kronkvist I. , Larsen R. , Lee Y. Y. , Logashenko I. , McNabb R. , Meng W. , Mi J. , Miller J. P. , Morse W. M. , Nikas D. , Onderwater C. , Orlov Y. , Pai C. , Paley J. , Polly C. , Pretz J. , Prigl R. , zu Putlitz G. , Redin S. I. , Rind O. , Roberts B. L. , Ryskulov N. M. , Sedykh S. , Semertzidis Y. K. , Shatunov Yu. M. , Sichtermann E. , Solodov E. , Sossong M. , Steinmetz A. , Sulak L. R. , Timmermans C. , Trofimov A. , Urner D. , Walter P. V. , Warburton D. , Winn D. , Yamamoto A.
Published: April 2003

By the end of an excellent data taking in 1999, we collected ≈ 1 billion decay positrons with energy greater than 2 GeV and 30 μs after injection. The analysis of the 1999 data set were performed in parallel by various teams in the collaboration and each team provides a different approach to the analysis. The projected errors are expected to be of order 1.3 ppm statistical and below 0.5 ppm systematic. The data obtained in the 2000 run contains ≈ 4 times more decay positrons compared to 1999.
CHARGED TGC FROM 1999 DELPHI DATA
Authors: FASSOULIOTIS DIMITRIS
Published: April 2003

Measurements of the trilinear gauge boson couplings WWγ and WWZ are presented from data taken by DELPHI in 1999 at an energy ranging from 192 to 202 GeV. Values are extracted with respect to [Formula: see text] and Δ κγ, the differences of the WWZ charge coupling and of the WWγ dipole coupling from their Standard Model values, and λγ, the WWγ quadrupole coupling. The study uses data from the final states jjℓν, jjjj, ℓX, jjX and γX, where j represents a quark jet, l an identified lepton and X missing four-momentum. The observations are consistent with the Standard Model predictions.
HIGGS PRODUCTION IN GLUON FUSION TO ${\mathcal O} (\alpha^4_s)$
Authors: HARLANDER ROBERT , KILGORE WILLIAM
Published: April 2003

The calculation of the NNLO QCD corrections to the partonic process gg → H is outlined. For the coupling of the Higgs boson to the gluons we use an effective Lagrangian in the limit of a heavy top quark. The focus is on the evaluation of the virtual two-loop corrections. It is shown that the leading ole terms are in agreement with general formula by Catani.
Prospects for Observing $t\bar tH$ at Run II: A discovery mode for the Higgs boson?
Authors: Goldstein J. , Hill C. S. , Incandela J. , Parke Stephen , Rainwater D. , Stuart D.
Published: April 2003

The production of a Standard Model Higgs boson in association with a top quark pair at the upcoming high luminosity run (15 fb -1 integreted luminosity) of the Fermilab Tevatron [Formula: see text] is revisited. For Higgs masses below 140 GeV we demonstrate that the production cross section times branching ratio for [Formula: see text] decays yields a significant number of events and that this mode is competitive with and complementary to the searches using [Formula: see text], ZH associated production. For higher mass Higgs bosons the H → W+ W- decays are more difficult but have the potential to provide a few spectacular events.
Masses of W and Z bosons without spontaneous symmetry breaking
Authors: Li Bing An
Published: April 2003

A new dynamical symmetry breaking of SU(2)L × U(1) caused by the combination of the axial-vector component and the fermion mass is found in electroweak theory. The masses of the W and the Z bosons are obtained to be [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text]. The Fermi constant is determined to be [Formula: see text].
Spin Correlation in $t\bar t$ Production $p\bar p$ Collisions at $\sqrt{s} =1.8\, {\rm TeV}$
Authors:   for the DØ Collaboration, JOHNS KENNETH A.
Published: April 2003

The DØ collaboration has performed a study of spin correlation in [Formula: see text] production for the process [Formula: see text], where the W bosons decay to e ν or μ ν. A sample of six events was collected by the DØ detector from an integrated luminosity of approximately 125 pb -1 of [Formula: see text] collisions. The degree of spin correlation is characterized by a correlation coefficient κ. We find that κ > -0.25 at the 68% confidence level, in agreement with the SM predicition of κ = 0.88.
$B^0\bar B^0$ mixing and CPT tests at Belle
Authors: Leonidopoulos Chrisos
Published: April 2003

We present preliminary results on the mixing parameter Δm and tests of the CPT symmetry in the [Formula: see text] mixing from the time evolution of dilepton events on the ϒ(4S) resonance. The report is based on 5.1 fb-1 of data collected by the Belle detector at KEKB. The preliminary study gives Δm = 0.456 ± 0.008 (stat) ± 0.030 (syst) ps -1. No evidence for CPT violation is found.
Bounds on Heavy-to-Heavy Weak Decay Form Factors
Authors: Chiang Cheng-Wei
Published: April 2003

We provide upper and lower bounds on the semileptonic weak decay form factors for B → D(*) and Λb → Λc decays by utilizing inclusive heavy quark effective theory sum rules. These bounds are calculated to second order in ΛQCD/mQ and first order in αs. The [Formula: see text] corrections to the bounds at zero recoil are also presented.
Study of $B\to D^{(*)+}_s D^{*(*)}$ and D(*)(4π)- at CLEO
Authors: WANG JIANCHUN
Published: April 2003

We report on the observation of B → D(*) π+ π- π-πo decays at rate of 1.8%, with significant contribution from D(*)ω π-. The ωπ- appears to come from the decay ρ', the mass and width are measured to be 1418 MeV and 382 MeV respectively. We also report the first evidence of [Formula: see text].
CHARMLESS HADRONIC B DECAYS AT BABAR
Authors:   (Representing the BABAR Collaboration), OLSEN JAMES D.
Published: April 2003

We present preliminary results of several searches for rare charmless hadronic decays of the B meson using data collected by the BABAR detector at the Stanford Linear Accelerator Center's PEP-II storage ring. We search for the decays h+h-, h+h-h+, h+h- π0, X0h+, and [Formula: see text], where h = π or K, and X0 = η' or ω. In a sample of 8.8 million [Formula: see text] decays we measure the branching fractions: [Formula: see text], [Formula: see text], [Formula: see text], and ℬ(B+ → η'K+)= (62 ± 18 ± 8) × 10-6. We calculate upper limits for the modes without a significant signal.
PRELIMINARY RESULTS ON CHARMED MESON SPECTROSCOPY
Authors:   On behalf of the FOCUS Collaboration. Coauthors: J. Link, V. S. Paolone, M. Reyes, P. M. Yager (US DAVIS); J. C. Anjos, I. Bediaga, C. Göbel, J. Magnin, J. M. de Miranda, I. M. Pepe, A. C. dos Reis, F. Simão (CPBF, Rio de Janeiro); S. Carrillo, E. Casimiro, H. Mendez, A. Sánchez-Hernández,, C. Uribe, F. Vasquez (CINVESTAV, México City); L. Cinquini, J. P. Cumalat, J. E. Ramirez, B. O'Reilly, E. W. Vaandering (CU Boulder); J. N. Butler, H. W. K. Cheung, I. Gaines, P. H. Garbincius, L. A. Garren, E. Gottscha, SARWAR SHAHZAD
Published: April 2003

We report the preliminary measurement by the FOCUS Collaboration (E831 at Fermilab) of masses and widths of the L=1 charm mesons [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text]. The fit of the invariant mass distribution requires an additional term to account for a broad structure over background.
INTERPRETATION OF D(2637) FROM HEAVY QUARK SYMMETRY
Authors: PAGE PHILIP R.
Published: April 2003

We demonstrate from heavy quark symmetry that the width of D(2637) claimed by the DELPHI Collaboration is inconsistent with any bound state with one charm quark predicted in the D(2637) mass region, except possibly the D-wave orbitally excited states [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text] or the radially excited state D′. The former two possibilities are favoured by heavy quark mass relations.
STUDY OF ηc PRODUCED IN γγ INTERACTIONS AT CLEO
Authors:   Representing the CLEO Collaboration., Pedlar Todd K.
Published: April 2003

Using the CLEO detector at CESR we have analyzed 13.4fb-1 of e+e- interactions which have yielded approximately 300 events from the process [Formula: see text] From this data sample we have obtained measurements of the ηc mass [2980.4±2.3(stat)±0.6(syst)] MeV and its total decay width [27.0±5.8(stat)±1.4(syst)] MeV. Furthermore, we have measured two-photon partial width of ηc to be [7.6±0.8(stat)±0.4(sys)±2.3(br)] keV, where the last error is due to the uncertainty of [Formula: see text].
FLAVOR OSCILLATIONS IN CHARM
Authors: GOLOWICH EUGENE
Published: April 2003

We discuss recent experiments on [Formula: see text] mixing. Some theoretical comments on these measurements are made, and possible interpretations of the data are given.
RECENT FOCUS RESULTS ON CHARM MIXING
Authors:   Representing the E831(FOCUS) Collaboration., KIM DORIS YANGSOO
Published: April 2003

We present the recent result on CP mixing based on a high statistics photoproduced charm sample collected by the FOCUS experiment. We compare the lifetimes of two neutral D meson decays: D0→K- π+ and D0→K-K+. A mixing parameter for the neutral D system (yCP) is obtained under the assumption that K-π+ is an equal mixture of CP odd and even eigenstates.
Rare and Forbidden Charm Meson Decays in FOCUS
Authors:   FOR THE FOCUS COLLABORATION., LOPEZ ANGEL M.
Published: April 2003

The abundant data from Fermilab's FOCUS experiment is being searched for rare and forbidden decays of charm mesons. An example of the search methodology in the preliminary analysis of D0→μ+μ- is presented. The blind analysis uses the data in the sidebands and a simulatin of the signal to optimize the selection cuts based on a determination of the sensitivity for discovery at the 90% confidence level.
TESTS OF QUARK MASS TEXTURES
Authors: ROMANINO ANDREA
Published: April 2003

The classic hints on the structure of the quark mass matrices are shortly reviewed and the possibility of obtaining further information through precise texture analysis is discussed with the aid of a specific example.
GENERALIZING THE GEORGI-JARLSKOG RELATIONS TO NEUTRINO MASSES
Authors: Barr S. M.
Published: April 2003

A generalization of the well-known Georgi-Jarlskog relations to neutrinos is found in the context of SO(10). The new relations give the mass ratios of the neutrinos in terms of the ratios of masses of the up-quarks, and are consistent with present data, assuming an MSW solution to the solar neutrino problem.
LIGHT QUARK MASSES: A STATUS REPORT AT DPF 2000
Authors: Gupta Rajan , Maltman Kim
Published: April 2003

A summary of the extraction of light quark masses from both QCD sumrules and lattice QCD simulations is presented. The focus is on providing a careful statement of the potential weaknesses in each calculation, and on integrating the work of different collaborations to provide a coherent picture.
Padé-Improved Estimate of Perturbative Contributions to Inclusive Semileptonic b→u Decays
Authors: Steele T. G. , Ahmady M. R. , Chishtie F. A. , Elias V.
Published: April 2003

Padé-approximant methods are used to estimate the three loop perturbative contributions to the inclusive semileptonic b→u decay rate. These improved estimates of the decay rate reduce the theoretical uncertainty in the extraction of the CKM matrix element |Vub| from the measured inclusive semileptonic branching ratio.
A NEW MEASUREMENT OF DIRECT CP VIOLATION IN K→ππ DECAYS BY THE NA48 EXPERIMENT AT CERN
Authors:   On behalf of the NA48 Collaboration: Cagliari, Cambridge, CERN, Dubna, Edinburgh, Ferrara, Firenze, Mainz, Orsay, Perugia, Pisa, Saclay, Siegen, Torino, Warszawa, Wien., FOX H.
Published: April 2003

A new measurement of ℛe(∊′/∊) by the NA48 collaboration using data collected in 1998 is presented. The preliminary result is ℛe(∊'/∊) =(12.2±2.9 ( stat )±4.0 ( sys )) ×10-4. The combination with the previous measurement using the 1997 data yields ℛe(∊′/∊)=(14.0±4.3)×10-4. This result confirms the existence of direct CP violation. The uncertainty on this measurement will be improved in the future.
IS THERE REALLY NO CONNECTION BETWEEN GRAVITY AND KL→π+π-
Authors: BARTLETT D. F.
Published: April 2003

This work gives a specific proposal for how KL→ππ may be caused by gravitational forces. A consequence is that η+- varies with a very long period.
A Sensitive Search for a Muon Electric Dipole Moment
Authors: SEMERTZIDIS Y. K. , BROWN H. , DANBY G. T. , JACKSON J. W. , LARSEN R. , LAZARUS D. M. , MENG W. , MORSE W. M. , OZBEN C. S. , PRIGL R. , CAREY R. M. , MILLER J. P. , RIND O. , ROBERTS B. L. , SULAK L. R. , BALAKIN V. , BAZHAN A. , DUDNIKOV A. , KHAZIN B. I. , SYLVESTROV G. , ORLOV Y. , JUNGMANN K. , DEBEVEC P. T. , HERTZOG D. W. , ONDERWATER C. J. G. , STEPHENSON E. J. , CUSHMAN P. , KRONKVIST I. , FARLEY F. J. M.
Published: April 2003

We are proposing a new method to carry out a dedicated search for a permanent electric dipole moment (EDM) of the muon with a sensitivity at a level of 10-24e · cm in both statistics and systematics. This will make the sensitivity of the EDM experiment to non-standard physics better than the sensitivity of the present muon g-2 experiment, assuming the CP violating phase of the probed physics is of order one. The experimental design exploits the strong motional electric field sensed by relativistic particles in a magnetic storage ring.1,2 As a key feature, a novel technique has been invented in which the g-2 precession is compensated with a radial electric field.
THEORIES OF NEUTRINO MASSES AND MIXINGS
Authors: ALBRIGHT CARL H.
Published: April 2003

An overview of neutrino models is presented with special emphasis on models with right-handed neutrinos which involve unifications of flavors and/or families. Some comments are made about the ease with which the various solar neutrino mixing scenarios can be obtained.
UPPER BOUND ON THE SCALE OF MAJORANA-NEUTRINO MASS GENERATION
Authors: NICZYPORUK J. M.
Published: April 2003

We derive a model-independent upper bound on the scale of Majorana-neutrino mass generation. The upper bound is [Formula: see text], where v ≃246 GeV is the weak scale and mν is the Majorana-neutrino mass. For neutrino masses implied by neutrino oscillation experiments, all but one of these bounds are less than the Planck scale, and they are all within a few orders of magnitude of the grand-unification scale.