bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Astronomers' Relativity
Authors: Galison Peter
Published: February 2007

Einstein's Jury
.
The Race to Test Relativity by Jeffrey Crelinsten
. Princeton University Press, Princeton, NJ, 2006. 428 pp. $35, £22.95. ISBN 9780691123103.

Crelinsten's account of the early reception of Einstein's general theory of relativity centers on the activities of astronomers, especially those in the United States.
Reversible Concerted Ligand Substitution at Alternating Metal Sites in an Extended Solid
Authors: Bradshaw Darren , Warren John E. , Rosseinsky Matthew J.
Published: February 2007

We report a synthetic material, [Co
2
(bipy)
3
(SO
4
)
2
(H
2
O)
2
](bipy) (CH
3
OH), (
1
, where bipy = 4,4′-bipyridyl) that contains discrete reactive and inert structural motifs that undergo a reversible substitution reaction involving the concerted and spatially controlled introduction of bipyridine and methanol molecules at the reactive sites. This reaction defines the pore geometry of the resulting open-framework structure and controls the manner in which this structure sorbs small molecules. The molecules involved in the reaction are positioned by an array of well-defined interactions during their path to binding to the metal centers.
Evaluation of Alloreactivity in Responder-Stimulator Pairs by Determination of Gamma Interferon-Producing Cells and Cytotoxic-T-Lymphocyte Precursor Frequencies
Authors: Sizzano Federico , Dametto Ennia , Amoroso Antonio
Published: February 2007

We used the enzyme-linked immunospot (ELISPOT) assay and the cytotoxic-T-lymphocyte precursor frequency assay to evaluate alloreactivity in responder-stimulator pairs. High frequencies of responder cells among cells from HLA-mismatched pairs and low frequencies among cells from pairs of siblings with identical HLA types were detected by both assays. The ELISPOT assay thus illustrated the helper and cytotoxic-T-cell response to allogeneic HLA antigens.
Novel Human Rotavirus of Genotype G5P[6] Identified in a Stool Specimen from a Chinese Girl with Diarrhea
Authors: Duan Zhao-Jun , Li Dan-Di , Zhang Qing , Liu Na , Huang Can-Ping , Jiang Xi , Jiang Baomin , Glass Roger , Steele Duncan , Tang Jing-Yu , Wang Zhong-Shan , Fang Zhao-Yin
Published: February 2007

During a rotavirus surveillance conducted in Lulong County, Hebei Province, China, a total of 331 stool specimens collected in 2003 from children under 5 years old with diarrhea were screened. We identified a novel group A human rotavirus of genotype G5P[6]. Phylogenetic analysis confirmed that the VP7 protein of this newly identified strain, LL36755, was closely related to those of the G5 strains. As such, it has 95.4% homology with its counterparts in the porcine G5 strains C134 and CC117 at the amino acid sequence level. On the other hand, the VP4 protein of the LL36755 strain was 94.5% homologous to those of the porcine P[6] strains 134/04-10, 134/04-11, 221/04-7, and 221/04-13. Our findings indicate a dynamic interaction between human and porcine rotaviruses.
Virulence Gene- and Pandemic Group-Specific Marker Profiling of Clinical
Vibrio parahaemolyticus
Isolates
Authors: Meador Carolyn E. , Parsons Michele M. , Bopp Cheryl A. , Gerner-Smidt Peter , Painter John A. , Vora Gary J.
Published: February 2007

Vibrio parahaemolyticus
is a halophilic bacterium capable of causing food- and waterborne gastroenteritis, wound infections, and septicemia in humans. The organism has recently received increasing attention, as the emergence of a new clone,
V. parahaemolyticus
O3:K6, has resulted in the first documented pandemic spread of
V. parahaemolyticus
. We used microarray analyses to explore the presence of known virulence factors and genetic markers thought to be specific for
V. parahaemolyticus
O3:K6 and its clonal derivatives. Analyses of 48 human clinical isolates collected between 1997 and 2005 revealed that the
V. parahaemolyticus
chromosome 2 type III secretion system is not specifically associated with pandemic strains and can be found in
tdh
-negative (i.e., Kanagawa-negative) clinical isolates. These results highlight the genetic dynamism of
V. parahaemolyticus
and aid in refining the genetic definition of the pandemic group members.
Optimization of Culture of
Leptospira
from Humans with Leptospirosis
Authors: Wuthiekanun Vanaporn , Chierakul Wirongrong , Limmathurotsakul Direk , Smythe Lee D. , Symonds Meegan L. , Dohnt Michael F. , Slack Andrew T. , Limpaiboon Roongreung , Suputtamongkol Yupin , White Nicholas J. , Day Nicholas P. J. , Peacock Sharon J.
Published: February 2007

A prospective study of 989 patients with acute febrile illness was performed in northeast Thailand to define the yield of
Leptospira
from four different types of blood sample. Based on a comparison of the yields from whole blood, surface plasma, deposit from spun plasma, and clotted blood samples from 80 patients with culture-proven leptospirosis, we suggest a sampling strategy in which culture is performed using whole blood and deposit from spun plasma.
Analysis of Multiple Differing Copies of the 16S rRNA Gene in Five Clinical Isolates and Three Type Strains of
Nocardia
Species and Implications for Species Assignment
Authors: Conville Patricia S. , Witebsky Frank G.
Published: February 2007

Five clinical isolates of
Nocardia
that showed ambiguous bases within the variable region of the 16S rRNA gene sequence were evaluated for the presence of multiple copies of this gene. The type strains of three
Nocardia
species,
Nocardia concava
,
Nocardia ignorata
, and
Nocardia yamanashiensis
, which also showed ambiguous bases in the variable region, were also examined. Cloning experiments using an amplified region of the 16S rRNA that contains the variable region showed that each isolate possessed 16S rRNA genes with at least two different sequences. In addition, hybridization studies using a 16S rRNA gene-specific probe and extracted genomic DNA of the patient isolates and of the type strain of
N. ignorata
showed that each isolate possessed at least three copies of the gene. These multiple differing copies of the 16S rRNA gene and the results of DNA-DNA hybridization studies indicate problems of species definition and identification for such isolates. A broader species concept than that currently in vogue may be required to accommodate such organisms.
Human Rhinovirus Type 54 Infection via Heparan Sulfate Is Less Efficient and Strictly Dependent on Low Endosomal pH
Authors: Khan Abdul Ghafoor , Pichler Johannes , Rosemann Anke , Blaas Dieter
Published: February 2007

K-type major-group human rhinoviruses (HRVs) (including HRV54) share a prominent lysine residue in the HI surface loop of VP1 with all minor-group HRVs. Despite the presence of this residue, they cannot use members of the low-density lipoprotein receptor family for productive infection. Reexamining all K-type viruses for receptor usage, we noticed that HRV54 is able to replicate in RD cells that lack the major-group receptor intercellular adhesion molecule 1 (ICAM-1). By using receptor blocking assays, inhibition of sulfation, enzymatic digestion, and proteoglycan-deficient cell lines, we show here that wild-type HRV54, without any adaptation, uses heparan sulfate (HS) proteoglycan as an alternate receptor. However, infection via HS is less efficient than infection via ICAM-1. Moreover, HRV54 has an acid lability profile similar to that of the minor-group virus HRV2. In ICAM-1-deficient cells its replication is completely blocked by the H
+
-ATPase inhibitor bafilomycin A1, whereas in ICAM-1-expressing cells it replicates in the presence of the drug. Thus, use of a “noncatalytic” receptor requires the virus to be highly unstable at low pH.
Production of Infectious Hepatitis C Virus of Various Genotypes in Cell Cultures
Authors: Kato Takanobu , Matsumura Takuya , Heller Theo , Saito Satoru , Sapp Ronda K. , Murthy Krishna , Wakita Takaji , Liang T. Jake
Published: February 2007

A unique hepatitis C virus (HCV) strain JFH-1 has been shown to replicate efficiently in cell culture with production of infectious HCV. We previously developed a DNA expression system containing HCV cDNA flanked by two self-cleaving ribozymes to generate HCV particles in cell culture. In this study, we produced HCV particles of various genotypes, including 1a (H77), 1b (CG1b), and 2a (J6 and JFH-1), in the HCV-ribozyme system. The constructs also contain the secreted alkaline phosphatase gene to control for transfection efficiency and the effects of culture conditions. After transfection into the Huh7-derived cell line Huh7.5.1, continuous HCV replication and secretion were confirmed by the detection of HCV RNA and core antigen in the culture medium. HCV replication levels of strains H77, CG1b, and J6 were comparable, whereas the JFH-1 strain replicates at a substantially higher level than the other strains. To evaluate the infectivity in vitro, the culture medium of JFH-1-transfected cells was inoculated into naive Huh7.5.1 cells. HCV proteins were detected by immunofluorescence 3 days after inoculation. To evaluate the infectivity in vivo, the culture medium from HCV genotype 1b-transfected cells was inoculated into a chimpanzee and caused a typical course of HCV infection. The HCV 1b propagated in vitro and in vivo had sequences identical to those of the HCV genomic cDNA used for cell culture transfection. The development of culture systems for production of various HCV genotypes provides a valuable tool not only to study the replication and pathogenesis of HCV but also to screen for antivirals.
Detection and Genetic Characterization of Group A Rotavirus Strains Circulating among Children with Acute Gastroenteritis in Japan
Authors: Phan Tung Gia , Khamrin Pattara , Quang Trinh Duy , Dey Shuvra Kanti , Takanashi Sayaka , Okitsu Shoko , Maneekarn Niwat , Ushijima Hiroshi
Published: February 2007

A total of 603 fecal specimens collected from July 2005 to June 2006 from children with acute gastroenteritis, encompassing five different localities in Japan, were screened for group A rotavirus by reverse transcription-PCR. It was found that 117 fecal specimens (19.4%) were positive for group A rotavirus. Rotavirus infection was detected continuously from November to June, with the highest prevalence in April. The G (VP7 genotypes) and P (VP4 genotypes) types were further investigated. The predominant genotype was G1P[8] (70.1%), followed by G3P[8] (17.9%), G9P[8] (6.8%), and G2P[4] (2.6%). A number of unusual G1P[4] combinations were also detected during this study period. A novel nomenclature for G1 is proposed, in which worldwide rotavirus G1 strains are classified into 11 lineages with 17 sublineages. A wide range of amino acid substitutions (up to 34) in VP7 that are specific for G1 lineages and sublineages were identified. Interestingly, only short amino acid motifs located at positions 29 to 75 and 211 to 213 of VP7 defined correctly the phylogenetic G1 lineages and sublineages. Examination of the deduced sequences of antigenic regions of VP7 also revealed multiple particular amino acid substitutions that correlated with the phylogenetic G1 lineages and sublineages. Of note, at least three distinct clusters of rotavirus G1 isolates were cocirculating in the Japanese pediatric population studied.
Proteins Associated with
Culex nigripalpus
Nucleopolyhedrovirus Occluded Virions
Authors: Perera Omaththage , Green Terry B. , Stevens Stanley M. , White Susan , Becnel James J.
Published: February 2007

Occlusion-derived virions (ODVs) of the nucleopolyhedrovirus of
Culex nigripalpus
(CuniNPV) were purified by Ludox density gradient ultracentrifugation, and the proteins were separated by one-dimensional sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis. Proteins were identified by using Edman sequencing, matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization-time of flight mass spectrometry, nanoelectrospray quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry, or a combination of these methods. Half of the 44 polypeptide sequences identified in this analysis were unique open reading frames (ORFs) encoded by the CuniNPV genome and did not show similarity to any other sequences present in protein databases. Of the 22 polypeptides that showed similarities to other baculovirus-encoded proteins, only 17 sequences have previously been identified as structural proteins. The newly identified CuniNPV structural proteins cun058, cun059, cun087, cun106, and cun109 are homologues of
Autographa californica
nucleopolyhedrovirus (AcMNPV) ORFs 68, 62, 98, 81, and 2, respectively. The products of four genes, namely, lef-1 (cun045), alkaline exonuclease (cun054), helicase (cun089), and DNA polymerase (cun091), were not detected in the CuniNPV ODV preparations. These four genes are conserved among all annotated baculovirus genomes, and their homologues have been detected in the ODV of AcMNPV.
tRNA Isoacceptor Preference prior to Retrovirus Gag-Pol Junction Links Primer Selection and Viral Translation
Authors: Palmer Matthew T. , Kirkman Richard , Kosloff Barry R. , Eipers Peter G. , Morrow Casey D.
Published: February 2007

An essential step in the replication of all retroviruses is the capture of a cellular tRNA that is used as the primer for reverse transcription. The 3′-terminal 18 nucleotides of the tRNA are complementary to the primer binding site (PBS). Moloney murine leukemia virus (MuLV) preferentially captures tRNA
Pro
. To investigate the specificity of primer selection, the PBS of MuLV was altered to be complementary to different tRNAs. Analysis of the infectivity of the virus and stability of the PBS following in vitro replication revealed that MuLV prefers to select tRNA
Pro
, tRNA
Gly
, or tRNA
Arg
. Previous studies from our laboratory have suggested that tRNA primer capture is coordinated with translation. Coincidentally, a cluster of proline, arginine, and glycine precedes the Gag-Pol junction of MuLV. Human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1), which prefers

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as the primer, can be forced to utilize tRNA
Met
,

\batchmode \documentclass[fleqn,10pt,legalpaper]{article} \usepackage{amssymb} \usepackage{amsfonts} \usepackage{amsmath} \pagestyle{empty} \begin{document} \(\mathrm{tRNA}_{1,2}^{\mathrm{Lys}}\) \end{document}

, tRNA
His
, or tRNA
Glu
, although these viruses replicate poorly. Codons for methionine, lysine, histidine, or glutamic acid are found prior to the Gag-Pol frameshift site. HIV-1 was mutated so that the 5 lysine codons prior to the Gag-Pol frameshift region were specific for

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. HIV-1 forced to use

\batchmode \documentclass[fleqn,10pt,legalpaper]{article} \usepackage{amssymb} \usepackage{amsfonts} \usepackage{amsmath} \pagestyle{empty} \begin{document} \(\mathrm{tRNA}_{1,2}^{\mathrm{Lys}}\) \end{document}

as the primer, with the mutation of codons specific for

\batchmode \documentclass[fleqn,10pt,legalpaper]{article} \usepackage{amssymb} \usepackage{amsfonts} \usepackage{amsmath} \pagestyle{empty} \begin{document} \(\mathrm{tRNA}_{1,2}^{\mathrm{Lys}}\) \end{document}

prior to the Gag-Pol junction, had enhanced infectivity and replicated similarly to the wild-type virus. The results demonstrate that codon preference prior to the Gag-Pol junction influences primer selection and suggest a coordination of Gag-Pol synthesis and acquisition of the tRNA primer required for retrovirus replication.
The Nasal Cavity Is a Route for Prion Infection in Hamsters
Authors: Kincaid Anthony E. , Bartz Jason C.
Published: February 2007

Animals that naturally acquire the prion diseases have a well-developed olfactory sense that they utilize for a variety of basic behaviors. To assess the potential for the nasal cavity to serve as a point of entry for prion diseases, a small amount of prion-infected brain homogenate was placed inferior to the nostrils of hamsters, where it was immediately sniffed into the nasal cavity. Hamsters extranasally inoculated with the HY strain of transmissible mink encephalopathy (TME) agent had an incubation period that was not significantly different from per os inoculation of the same dose of the HY TME agent. However, the efficiency of the nasal route of inoculation was determined to be 10 to 100 times greater based on endpoint dilution analysis. Immunohistochemistry on tissues from hamsters killed at 2-week intervals after inoculation was used to identify the disease-associated form of the prion protein (PrP
d
) to determine the route of prion neuroinvasion. Nasal mucosa-associated lymphoid tissue and submandibular lymph nodes initially accumulated PrP
d
as early as 4 weeks postinfection. PrP
d
was first identified in cervical lymph nodes at 8 weeks, in the mesenteric lymph nodes, spleen, and Peyer's patches at 14 weeks, and in the tongue 20 weeks after inoculation. Surprisingly, there was no evidence of PrP
d
in olfactory epithelium or olfactory nerve fascicles at any time after inoculation. Therefore, the HY TME agent did not enter the central nervous system via the olfactory nerve; instead, PrP
d
accumulated in elements of the cranial lymphoreticular system prior to neuroinvasion.
Role for Actin in the Polarized Release of Rotavirus
Authors: Gardet Agnès , Breton Michelyne , Trugnan Germain , Chwetzoff Serge
Published: February 2007

Rotaviruses are characterized by polarized release from the apical side of infected enterocytes, and the rotavirus VP4 spike protein specifically binds to the actin network at the apical pole of differentiated enterocytic cells. To determine the functional consequences of this VP4-actin interaction, fluorescence recovery after photobleaching experiments were carried out to measure the diffusional mobility of VP4 associated with the microfilaments. Results show that VP4 binds to barbed ends of microfilaments by using actin treadmilling. Actin treadmilling inhibition results in the loss of rotavirus apical preferential release, suggesting a major role for actin in polarized rotavirus release.
Adenovirus-Platelet Interaction in Blood Causes Virus Sequestration to the Reticuloendothelial System of the Liver
Authors: Stone Daniel , Liu Ying , Shayakhmetov Dmitry , Li Zong-Yi , Ni Shaoheng , Lieber André
Published: February 2007

Intravenous (i.v.) delivery of recombinant adenovirus serotype 5 (Ad5) vectors for gene therapy is hindered by safety and efficacy problems. We have discovered a new pathway involved in unspecific Ad5 sequestration and degradation. After i.v. administration, Ad5 rapidly binds to circulating platelets, which causes their activation/aggregation and subsequent entrapment in liver sinusoids. Virus-platelet aggregates are taken up by Kupffer cells and degraded. Ad sequestration in organs can be reduced by platelet depletion prior to vector injection. Identification of this new sequestration mechanism and construction of vectors that avoid it could improve levels of target cell transduction at lower vector doses.
MASS AND WIDTH OF THE σ
Authors: LEUTWYLER HEINRICH
Published: February 2007

I report on recent work done in collaboration with Irinel Caprini and Gilberto Colangelo1. We observe that the Roy equations lead to a representation of the ππ scattering amplitude that exclusively involves observable quantities, but is valid for complex values of s. At low energies, this representation is dominated by the contributions from the two subtraction constants, which are known to remarkable precision from the low energy theorems of chiral perturbation theory. Evaluating the remaining contributions on the basis of the available data, we demonstrate that the lowest resonance carries the quantum numbers of the vacuum and occurs in the vicinity of the threshold. Although the uncertainties in the data are substantial, the pole position can be calculated quite accurately, because it occurs in the region where the amplitude is dominated by the subtractions. The calculation neatly illustrates the fact that the dynamics of the Goldstone bosons is governed by the symmetries of QCD.
PHOTOPRODUCTION OF η AND η′ MESONS ON THE NUCLEON
Authors: TIATOR LOTHAR
Published: February 2007

The isobar models η-MAID and η′-MAID have been used to analyze new data on quasi-free η photoproduction on the deuteron from Bonn and recent η′ data on the proton from Jlab. In η photoproduction on the neutron a bump around W = 1700 MeV was observed which could possibly arise from a narrow P11 state that is discussed as a non-strange member of the Θ+ antidecuplett. In η′ photoproduction on the proton resonance contributions are found that can be attributed to missing resonances in the energy region around W = 1900 MeV .
η AND η′ MESONS PRODUCTION AT COSY-11
Authors:   COSY-11 COLLABORATION., Moskal P. , Adam H.-H. , Budzanowski A. , Czerwiński E. , Czyżykiewicz R. , Gil D. , Grzonka D. , Janusz M. , Jarczyk L. , Kamys B. , Khoukaz A. , Klaja P. , Majewski J. , Oelert W. , Piskor-Ignatowicz C. , Przerwa J. , Ritman J. , Rejdych B. , Rożek T. , Sefzick T. , Siemaszko M. , Smyrski J. , Täschner A. , Winter P. , Wolke M. , Wüstner P. , Zipper W.
Published: February 2007

The low emittance and small momentum spread of the proton and deuteron beams of the Cooler Synchrotron COSY combined with the high mass resolution of the COSY-11 detection system permit to study the creation of mesons in the nucleon-nucleon interaction down to the fraction of MeV with respect to the kinematical threshold. At such small excess energies, the ejectiles possess low relative momenta and are predominantly produced with the relative angular momentum equal to zero. Taking advantage of these conditions we have performed investigations aiming to determine the mechanism of the production of η and η′ mesons in the collision of hadrons as well as the hadronic interaction of these mesons with nucleons and nuclei. In this proceedings we address the ongoing studies of the spin and isospin dependence for the production of the η and η′ mesons in free and quasi-free nucleon-nucleon collisions.

New results on the spin observables for the [Formula: see text] reaction, combined with the previously determined total cross section isospin dependence, reveal a statistically significant indication that the excitation of the nucleon to the S11(1535) resonance, the process which intermediates the production of the η meson in the nucleon-nuleon interactions, is predominantly due to the exchange of the π meson between the colliding nucleons.
RECENT BABAR RESULTS IN CHARM AND CHARMONIUM SPECTROSCOPY
Authors:   FOR THE BABAR COLLABORATION., PELIZÄUS MARC
Published: February 2007

Recent results related to open charm and charmonium spectroscopy from data collected by the Babar experiment in e+e- collisions near [Formula: see text] are reviewed. New estimates of the [Formula: see text], Ds1(2460)+, and Ds1(2536)+ meson properties and the discovery of a new [Formula: see text] meson at 2.86 GeV/c2 decaying to DK are presented. New results on the two charmonium candidates X(3872) and Y(4260) are discussed also.
MESON2006 SUMMARY: THEORY
Authors: BARNES TED
Published: February 2007

This is a summary of theoretical plenary contributions to the biennial hadron physics conference Meson2006, which was the ninth in this series. The topics covered in the meeting include low energy pion-pion and pion-nucleon interactions, photoproduction and hadronic production of light mesons and baryons, in-medium effects, recent developments in charmed mesons, charmonia and B mesons, the status of exotica, and some related topics such as final state interactions. In this contribution we review and summarize the plenary talks presented by theorists at the meeting, and emphasize some of the main points of their presentations. Where appropriate we will add brief comments on some aspects of QCD spectroscopy. Finally, following tradition, we conclude with a new Feynman story.
PION AND KAON PRODUCTION IN NUCLEON–NUCLEON COLLISIONS
Authors: TICHORUK MARTA , SZCZUREK ANTONI
Published: February 2007

Inclusive cross section for pion production in proton - proton collisions are calculated based on unintegrated parton distribution functions (uPDFs). In addition to purely gluonic terms the present approach includes also quark degrees of freedom. Phenomenological fragmentation functions from the literature are used. The new mechanisms are responsible for π+ - π- asymmetry. In contrast to standard collinear approach, application of 2 → 1 kt - factorization approach can be extended towards much lower transverse momenta, both at mid and forward rapidity region. The results of the calculation are compared with SPS and RHIC data.
A CHERENKOV DETECTOR FOR WASA AT COSY
Authors: VLASOV PETER , HINTERBERGER FRANK , POVTOREYKO ANATOLY , RITMAN JAMES , SIUDAK REGINA
Published: February 2007

The WASA detector system requires upgrades of its components to be efficient at the higher beam energies available at COSY. One of the proposed items of the WASA upgrade is to add a Cherenkov Detector. The current status of its development is presented.
LOW-MASS ππ ENHANCEMENT IN BARYONIC ππ PRODUCTION: ABC EFFECT REVISED BY EXCLUSIVE MEASUREMENTS
Authors:   CELSIUS-WASA COLLABORATION., Bashkanov M. , Khakimova O. , Skorodko T. , Bargholtz C. , Bogoslowsky D. , Calén H. , Cappellaro F. , Clement H. , Ekström C. , Fransson K. , Geren L. , Gustafsson L. , Höistad B. , Ivanov G. , Jacewicz M. , Jiganov E. , Johansson T. , Kaskulov M. M. , Keleta S. , Koch I. , Kren F. , Kullander S. , Kupść A. , Kuznetsov A. , Lindberg K. , Marciniewski P. , Meier R. , Morosov B. , Oelert W. , Pauly C. , Petukhov Y. , Povtoreyko A. , Ruber R. J. M. Y. , Schwick A. , Scobel W. , Shafigullin R. , Shwartz B. , Sopov V. , Stepaniak J. , Tegner P.-E. , Tchernyshev V. , Thörngren-Engblom P. , Tikhomirov V. , Turowiecki A. , Wagner G. J. , Wolke M. , Yamamoto A. , Zabierowski J. , Zartova I. , Złomanćzuk J.
Published: February 2007

The ABC effect - a puzzling threshold enhancement in the ππ invariant mass spectrum of double-pionic fusion to nuclear bound states - has been investigated since 40 years by inclusive measurements without providing a conclusive interpretation. First exclusive measurements to this topic have now been carried out at CELSIUS-WASA. They confirm a huge ππ threshold enhancement, prove it to be of scalar-isoscalar nature, i.e., a σ-channel phenomenon and reveal the theoretically predicted high-mass enhancement in inclusive spectra to be of πππ rather than of ππ nature - falsifying thus corresponding model predictions for the ABC effect. From the kinematically complete data samples we infer that the interaction between the two Δ particles created in this process is of crucial importance.
THE S- AND P-WAVE ATTRACTION IN BOUND KNN, KNNN STATES
Authors: WYCECH SŁAWOMIR , GREEN ANTHONY M.
Published: February 2007

The deeply bound KNN and KNNN states are discussed and variational estimates of the binding energies are given. The basic KN amplitudes involve the deep subthreshold energy region, which is not under direct control. Large uncertainties are due to the KN interaction range. The dominant attraction comes from the S -wave Λ(1405). In the KNNN systems, an additional strong contribution comes from the P -wave Σ(1385) resonance.
MEASUREMENT OF THE BRANCHING FRACTIONS FOR J/ψ → γπ0, γη AND γη′ AND STUDY OF η′ → γπ+π- DECAY DYNAMICS
Authors:   FOR THE BES COLLABORATION., CHEN HAI-XUAN
Published: February 2007

The decay modes J/ψ → γπ0, γη, and γη′ are analyzed using a data sample of 58 million J/ψ decays collected with the BESII detector at the BEPC. The branching fractions are determined to be [Formula: see text], Br(J/ψ → γη) = (11.23 ± 0.89) × 10-4, and Br(J/ψ → γη′) = (5.55 ± 0.44) × 10-3, where the errors are combined statistical and systematic errors. The ratio of partial widths and the singlet-octet pseudoscalar mixing angle of η-η′ system is determined. The η′ → γπ+π- decay dynamics is studied using 22,000 reconstructed J/ψ → γη′ → γγπ+π- events, the π+π- mass spectrum is fitted using different theoretical descriptions. The preliminary results show that only the ρ(770) is not enough to describe the η′ → γπ+π- decay process and a non-ρ(770) contribution is needed.
FINAL STATE INTERACTIONS IN B → ππK AND $B\to K\overline{K}K$ DECAYS
Authors: LEŚNIAK L. , KAMIŃSKI R. , EL-BENNICH B. , LOISEAU B. , FURMAN A.
Published: February 2007

Analysis of charged and neutral B meson decays into π+π-K, K+K-K and [Formula: see text] is performed using a unitary representation of the ππ and [Formula: see text] final state interactions. Comparison of the theoretical model with the experimental data of the Belle and BaBar Collaborations indicates that charming penguin contributions are necessary to describe the B → f0(980) K and B → ρ(770)0 K decays.
SCALAR AND TENSOR STATES IN PROCESSES WITH PSEUDOSCALAR MESONS
Authors: SUROVTSEV YU. S. , KAMIŃSKI R. , KRUPA D. , NAGY M.
Published: February 2007

In approach, based on analyticity and unitarity, experimental data on the isoscalar S- and D-waves of processes ππ → ππ, [Formula: see text], ηη, ηη′ have been analyzed for studying the status and QCD nature of the f0- and f2-mesons below 2.3 GeV. Assignment of scalar and tensor mesons to lower nonets is proposed.
PION QUARK STRUCTURE IN QCD
Authors: BAKULEV A. P. , PIMIKOV A. V.
Published: February 2007

We describe the present status of the pion distribution amplitude as it originated from two sources: (i) a nonperturbative approach, based on QCD sum rules with nonlocal condensates and (ii) a NLO QCD analysis of the CLEO data on Fγγ*π(Q2), supplemented by the recent high-precision lattice calculations of the second moment of the pion distribution amplitude.
MESON PRODUCTION AT SPS ENERGIES
Authors: RYBICKI ANDRZEJ
Published: February 2007

Comparative studies of hadron-induced interactions and heavy ion collisions have been performed at beam energies of 158 GeV/nucleon, corresponding to [Formula: see text]. They indicate that the heavy ion reaction is a mixture of various processes, including multiple nucleon collisions, isospin effects, and final state Coulomb interactions. The latter interactions result in surprising phenomena, like the presence of large and strongly varying structures in the shape of double-differential particle spectra. These phenomena depend on the initial conditions of the reaction and therefore can provide new information on the space and time evolution of the non-perturbative meson production process.
PSEUDOSCALAR MESON TEMPORAL CORRELATION FUNCTION FOR FINITE MOMENTA IN HTL APPROACH
Authors: CZERSKI PIOTR
Published: February 2007

The temporal pseudoscalar meson correlation function in a QCD plasma is investigated in a range of temperatures exceeding Tc and first time for a finite momenta which is of the experimental interest. The imaginary time formalism is employed for the finite temperature calculations. The behavior of the meson spectral function and of the temporal correlator is studied in the HTL approximation, where one replaces the free thermal quark propagators with the HTL resumed ones.
A NOVEL NANOPOROUS SILICON PREPARED USING ELECTROCHEMICAL DEPOSITION TECHNIQUE FOR LIGHT EMITTING DIODE APPLICATIONS
Authors: ABDULLAH S. , RUSOP M. , MUHAMAD M. R.
Published: February 2007

The electroluminescence (EL) studies on the aluminum-doped nanoporous silicon ( NPSi : Al ) have been conducted. Nanoporous silicon ( NPSi ) layers have been prepared by anodically etching the unpolished p-type Si [100] wafer with surface resistivity of 4–8 Ω cm-1 in hydrofluoric solution at 1:1 ratio of ethanol. Aluminum ( Al ) was doped on NPSi using cathodic electrodeposition composed of aluminum chloride ( AlCl 3) and ethanol electrolyte. A diode structure has been fabricated comprising a semi-transparent Au / NPSi : Al / p - Si / Al ohmic contact electrode showing rectification on a forward bias I–V curve. EL from NPSi and NPSi : Al / p - Si has also been observed using the diode structure. The NPSi : Al / p - Si device shows increasing EL quantum efficiency at about 30%, and blue-shift EL spectra are observed. Possible reasons for the enhancement will be discussed.
EFFECTS OF METHANE GAS FLOW RATE ON THE OPTOELECTRICAL PROPERTIES OF NITROGENATED CARBON THIN FILMS GROWN BY SURFACE WAVE MICROWAVE PLASMA CHEMICAL VAPOR DEPOSITION
Authors: RUSOP M. , ABDULLAH S. , OMER A. M. M. , ADHIKARI S. , SOGA T. , JIMBO T. , UMENO M.
Published: February 2007

We have studied the influence of the methane gas ( CH4) flow rate on the composition and structural and electrical properties of nitrogenated amorphous carbon ( a - C : N ) films grown by surface wave microwave plasma chemical vapor deposition (SWMP-CVD) using Auger electron spectroscopy, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, UV-visible spectroscopy, four-point probe and two-probe method resistance measurement. The photoelectrical properties of a - C : N films were also studied. We have succeeded to grow a - C : N films using a novel method of SWMP-CVD at room temperature and found that the deposition rate, bonding and optical and electrical properties of a - C : N films are strongly dependent on the CH4gas sources, and the a - C : N films grown at higher CH4gas flow rate have relatively high electrical conductivity for both cases of in dark and under illumination condition.
VOLTAGE-TUNABLE SPIN POLARIZATION OF TWO-DIMENSIONAL ELECTRON GAS IN FERROMAGNETIC/SEMICONDUCTOR HYBRID NANOSYSTEM
Authors: LU MAOWANG
Published: February 2007

The spin-dependent electron transport in a two-dimensional electron gas (2DEG) modulated by a stripe of magnetized ferromagnetic metal under an applied voltage was investigated theoretically. It is revealed that highly spin-polarized current can be achieved in this kind of nanosystems. It is also shown that the spin polarity of the electron transport can be switched by adjusting the applied voltage to the stripe in the device. These interesting properties may provide an alternative scheme to spin polarize electrons into semiconductors, and this device may be used as a voltage-tunable spin filter.
EFFECT OF SUBSTRATE BIAS VOLTAGE ON THE MICROSTRUCTURAL AND MECHANICAL PROPERTIES OF TiN-COATED HSS SYNTHESIZED BY CAPVD TECHNIQUE
Authors: ALI MUBARAK , HAMZAH ESAH BINTI , HJ. MOHD TOFF MOHD RADZI
Published: February 2007

Titanium nitride ( TiN ) films were deposited on high-speed steel (HSS) using cathodic arc physical vapor deposition (CAPVD) technique. The effect of substrate bias on the crystallography, microstructure, deposition rate, coating thickness and composition, hardness, and adhesion strength of TiN films was investigated. The crystallography of the films was investigated using X-ray diffraction with glazing incidence angle technique. The coating microstructure and elemental composition analysis were carried out using field emission scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM) together with energy-dispersive X-ray. Crystallography of the films revealed that the effect of substrate bias shows complex symmetry in crystal structure. The resputtering effect due to the high-energy ion bombardment on the film surface influenced the thickness as well as the color of deposited coatings. By increasing the substrate bias from 0 to - 150 V, the size and amount of macrodroplets decreased, whereas the micro-Vickers hardness decreased from 2530 HV0.05 to 1500 HV0.05. Scratch tester used to compare the critical loads for coatings and the adhesion achievable at substrate bias of - 50 V was demonstrated, with relevance to the various modes.
ADSORPTION KINETICS OF POTASSIUM ON SrTiO3(100)
Authors: MORI E. E. , KAMARATOS M.
Published: February 2007

In this paper, we study the kinetics of potassium adsorption on SrTiO 3(100) surface at room temperature. The study took place in UHV using AES, EELS, LEED, TPD, and WF measurements. Potassium grows in two-dimensional islands with maximum coverage of 3.9 × 1014 at/cm2. During adsorption charge transfer from the K -4s to Ti -3d energy level has been observed. No K – O compound has been measured. After heating at 1050 K most of the adsorbed potassium desorbs and the SrTiO 3(100) (1 × 1) LEED pattern reappears. There is not any indication of potassium intercalation into the substrate, either at room or at elevated temperature.
CONTROL OF DISTRIBUTIONS AND SIZES OF NANOCOMPOSITE CARBON PARTICLES
Authors: FENG P. X.
Published: February 2007

Microscale to nanoscale carbon and carbon nitride particles and films were synthesized by using plasma discharge sputtering deposition techniques. Experimental results indicated that sizes and distributions of the particles were directly determined by both discharge voltage and bias voltage. Sputtering deposition at high discharge voltages yielded large sizes (micrometer order) of particles with a high disorder of distribution. Whereas sputtering deposition at low discharge voltages yielded nanoscale of particles that uniformly distributed on the surface of the substrate. Ar laser beam in combination with an optical microscope has been used, enabling one to remove these particles and to achieve preferred distributions of the particles. Low growth rate of the films was found at the low voltage discharge sputtering deposition. Bias voltage was employed during the experiments in order to speed up the growth rate and increase nitrogen content inside the carbon nitride film. With an increase of the bias voltage up to 5 kV, nanoparticles appeared in two-dimensional, sunflower type of cluster distributions. Typical G , D , and C=N bands in the Raman spectra of the samples were identified.
NT-4-deficient mice lack sensitivity to meal-associated preabsorptive feedback from lipids
Authors: Chi Michael M. , Powley Terry L.
Published: February 2007

Since mice with a deletion of the neurotrophin-4 (NT-4) gene exhibit a loss of both nodose ganglion neurons and vagal afferent terminals in the small intestines, we hypothesized that the reduced intestinal innervation of the NT-4 knockout (NT-4KO) mouse would lead to a corresponding reduction in the preabsorptive feedback from macronutrients. To explore this prediction, we measured meal patterns in NT-4KOs and controls, while, on different days, intragastric infusions of either lipids (Intralipid; 10%, 20%) or glucose (12.5%, 25%) were yoked to each animal's spontaneous feeding of a pelleted diet (∼1 kcal infused/1 kcal ingested). NT-4KO mice were relatively, though not completely, insensitive to the lipid infusions, whereas they were as sensitive as controls to glucose infusions. More specifically, the regulatory deficits of NT-4KOs included 1) attenuated satiation from the lipid infusions, as measured by smaller intrameal reductions of both meal size and meal duration, 2) defects in satiety associated with the fat infusions, as measured by smaller intermeal increases of both satiety ratio and intermeal interval, and ( 3 ) losses in daily compensatory responses for lipid calories. These results support the hypothesis that NT-4KO mice have deficits in macronutrient feedback from the gastrointestinal tract, indicate that the defects are specific insofar as they do not include impairments in the feedback of glucose infusions on feeding, and suggest that early feedback about dietary lipids is important in the regulation of satiation, satiety, and longer-term compensation of daily caloric intake.
Prior exercise delays the onset of acidosis during incremental exercise
Authors: Raymer Graydon H. , Forbes Sean C. , Kowalchuk John M. , Thompson R. Terry , Marsh Greg D.
Published: February 2007

The effects of prior moderate- and prior heavy-intensity exercise on the subsequent metabolic response to incremental exercise were examined. Healthy, young adult subjects ( n = 8) performed three randomized plantar-flexion exercise tests: 1) an incremental exercise test (∼0.6 W/min) to volitional fatigue (Ramp); 2) Ramp preceded by 6 min of moderate-intensity, constant-load exercise below the intracellular pH threshold (pHT; Mod-Ramp); and 3) Ramp preceded by 6 min of heavy-intensity, constant-load exercise above pHT (Hvy-Ramp); the constant-load and incremental exercise periods were separated by 6 min of rest. 31P-magnetic resonance spectroscopy was used to continuously monitor intracellular pH, phosphocreatine concentration ([PCr]), and inorganic phosphate concentration ([Pi]). No differences in exercise performance or the metabolic response to exercise were observed between Ramp and Mod-Ramp. However, compared with Ramp, a 14% (SD 10) increase ( P < 0.01) in peak power output (PPO) was observed in Hvy-Ramp. The improved exercise performance in Hvy-Ramp was accompanied by a delayed ( P = 0.01) onset of intracellular acidosis [Hvy-Ramp 60.4% PPO (SD 11.7) vs. Ramp 45.8% PPO (SD 9.4)] and a delayed ( P < 0.01) onset of rapid increases in [Pi]/[PCr] [Hvy-Ramp 61.5% PPO (SD 12.0) vs. Ramp 45.1% PPO (SD 9.1)]. In conclusion, prior heavy-intensity exercise delayed the onset of intracellular acidosis and enhanced exercise performance during a subsequent incremental exercise test.
Peripheral impairments cause a progressive age-related loss of strength and velocity-dependent power in the dorsiflexors
Authors: McNeil Chris J. , Vandervoort Anthony A. , Rice Charles L.
Published: February 2007

Muscle power is more functionally relevant than static muscle strength, particularly with aging. However, the effect of age on power derived from isotonic contractions has been studied sparingly, and it has not been studied at all in subjects >75 yr of age. Thus the purpose was to investigate the magnitude and causes of age-related losses in isotonic power among 13 young (26 yr), 13 old (65 yr), and 13 very old (84 yr) men. Six different loads were employed to create velocity-torque and power-torque relationships. Dorsiflexor cross-sectional area was assessed via magnetic resonance imaging for the calculation of specific power. Electromyographic signals of the tibialis anterior and soleus muscles were recorded to assess agonist activation and antagonist coactivation, respectively. Despite similar contractile masses and levels of voluntary drive and antagonist co-activation, power was significantly impaired in the old vs. young (∼25%), and in the very old relative to both the young (∼60%) and old (∼40%). The novel results punctuate two important considerations for studies concerned with the effect of age on the neuromuscular system. First, the decreased ability of muscles from old men to produce power in the presence of reasonably well-preserved strength indicates the utility of studying isotonic contractions. Second, the precipitous decline in many measures between the seventh and ninth decades underscores the benefit of testing more than one group of aged subjects to improve our understanding of rates of change in key variables.
Estrogen Receptor α Polymorphism and Risk of Cardiovascular Disease, Cancer, and Hip Fracture
Authors: Kjaergaard Alisa D. , Ellervik Christina , Tybjærg-Hansen Anne , Axelsson Christen Kirk , Grønholdt Marie-Louise M. , Grande Peer , Jensen Gorm B. , Nordestgaard Børge G.
Published: February 2007

Background—

We hypothesized that the estrogen receptor α (ESR1) IVS1-397T/C polymorphism affects high-density lipoprotein cholesterol response to hormone replacement therapy and risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD), cancer of reproductive organs, and hip fracture.

Methods and Results—

We studied cross-sectionally 9244 individuals from the Danish general population and followed them up for 23 to 25 years. End points were CVD (ischemic heart disease, myocardial infarction, angina pectoris, ischemic cerebrovascular disease, ischemic stroke, other ischemic cerebrovascular disease, venous thromboembolism, deep vein thrombosis, and pulmonary embolism), cancer of reproductive organs (breasts, ovaries, uterus, and prostate), and hip fracture. We also studied patients with ischemic heart disease (n=2495), ischemic cerebrovascular disease (n=856), and breast cancer (n=1256) versus general population controls. The CC, CT, and TT genotypes had general population frequencies of 21%, 50%, and 29%, respectively. Cross-sectionally, genotype did not influence high-density lipoprotein cholesterol response to hormone replacement therapy. In the cohort study, there were no differences in risks of CVD, cancer of reproductive organs, or hip fracture between genotypes. In case–control studies, risk of CVD did not differ between genotypes; however, the odds ratio for breast cancer in women with TT versus CC genotypes was 1.4 (95% CI, 1.1 to 1.7). Meta-analysis in men of 6 previous and the present 2 studies, including 4799 cases and 12 190 controls, showed odds ratios in CC versus CT and TT genotypes for fatal and nonfatal myocardial infarction of 0.81 (95% CI, 0.59 to 1.12) and 1.08 (95% CI, 0.97 to 1.21).

Conclusions—

ESR1 IVS1-397T/C polymorphism does not influence high-density lipoprotein cholesterol response to hormone replacement therapy or risk of CVD, most cancers of reproductive organs, or hip fracture.
Hormone Therapy and Venous Thromboembolism Among Postmenopausal Women
Authors: Canonico Marianne , Oger Emmanuel , Plu-Bureau Geneviève , Conard Jacqueline , Meyer Guy , Lévesque Hervé , Trillot Nathalie , Barrellier Marie-Thérèse , Wahl Denis , Emmerich Joseph , Scarabin Pierre-Yves
Published: February 2007

Background—

Oral estrogen therapy increases the risk of venous thromboembolism (VTE) in postmenopausal women. Transdermal estrogen may be safer. However, currently available data have limited the ability to investigate the wide variety of types of progestogen.

Methods and Results—

We performed a multicenter case–control study of VTE among postmenopausal women 45 to 70 years of age between 1999 and 2005 in France. We recruited 271 consecutive cases with a first documented episode of idiopathic VTE (208 hospital cases, 63 outpatient cases) and 610 controls (426 hospital controls, 184 community controls) matched for center, age, and admission date. After adjustment for potential confounding factors, odds ratios (ORs) for VTE in current users of oral and transdermal estrogen compared with nonusers were 4.2 (95% CI, 1.5 to 11.6) and 0.9 (95% CI, 0.4 to 2.1), respectively. There was no significant association of VTE with micronized progesterone and pregnane derivatives (OR, 0.7; 95% CI, 0.3 to 1.9 and OR, 0.9; 95% CI, 0.4 to 2.3, respectively). In contrast, norpregnane derivatives were associated with a 4-fold-increased VTE risk (OR, 3.9; 95% CI, 1.5 to 10.0).

Conclusions—

Oral but not transdermal estrogen is associated with an increased VTE risk. In addition, our data suggest that norpregnane derivatives may be thrombogenic, whereas micronized progesterone and pregnane derivatives appear safe with respect to thrombotic risk. If confirmed, these findings could benefit women in the management of their menopausal symptoms with respect to the VTE risk associated with oral estrogen and use of progestogens.