Measurement of the ν_{e}-Nucleus Charged-Current Double-Differential Cross Section at ⟨E_{ν}⟩=2.4 GeV Using NOvA

The inclusive electron neutrino charged-current cross section is measured in the NOvA near detector using 8.02×10^{20} protons-on-target in the NuMI beam. The sample of GeV electron neutrino interactions is the largest analyzed to date and is limited by ≃17% systematic rather than the ≃7.4% statistical uncertainties. The double-differential cross section in final-state electron energy and angle is presented for the first time, together with the single-differential dependence on Q^{2} (squared four-momentum transfer) and energy, in the range 1  GeV≤E_{ν}<6  GeV. Detailed comparisons are made to the predictions of the GENIE, GiBUU, NEUT, and NuWro neutrino event generators. The data do not strongly favor a model over the others consistently across all three cross sections measured, though some models have especially good or poor agreement in the single differential cross section vs Q^{2}.

Search for Active-Sterile Antineutrino Mixing Using Neutral-Current Interactions with the NOvA Experiment

This Letter reports results from the first long-baseline search for sterile antineutrinos mixing in an accelerator-based antineutrino-dominated beam. The rate of neutral-current interactions in the two NOvA detectors, at distances of 1 and 810 km from the beam source, is analyzed using an exposure of 12.51×10^{20} protons-on-target from the NuMI beam at Fermilab running in antineutrino mode. A total of 121 of neutral-current candidates are observed at the far detector, compared to a prediction of 122±11(stat.)±15(syst.) assuming mixing only between three active flavors. No evidence for ν[over ¯]_{μ}→ν[over ¯]_{s} oscillation is observed. Interpreting this result within a 3+1 model, constraints are placed on the mixing angles θ_{24}<25° and θ_{34}<32° at the 90% C.L. for 0.05  eV^{2}≤Δm_{41}^{2}≤0.5  eV^{2}, the range of mass splittings that produces no significant oscillations at the near detector. These are the first 3+1 confidence limits set using long-baseline accelerator antineutrinos.

Computer-aided detection for tuberculosis and silicosis in chest radiographs of gold miners of South Africa

BACKGROUND: For over one hundred years, the gold mining sector has been a considerable source of tuberculosis (TB) and silicosis disease burden across Southern Africa. Reading chest radiographs (CXRs) is an expert and time-intensive process necessary for the screening and diagnosis of lung disease and the provision of evidence for compensation claims. Our study explores the use of computer-aided detection (CAD) of TB and silicosis in CXRs of a population with a high incidence of both diseases.METHODS: A set of 330 CXRs with human expert-determined classifications of silicosis, TB, silcotuberculosis and normal were provided to four health technology companies. The ability of each of their respective CAD systems to predict disease was assessed using receiver operating characteristic curve analysis of the under the curve metric.RESULTS: Three of the four systems differentiated accurately between TB and normal images, while two differentiated accurately between silicosis and normal images. Inclusion of silicotuberculosis images reduced each system's ability to detect either disease. In differentiating between any abnormal from normal CXR, the most accurate system achieved both a sensitivity and specificity of 98.2%.CONCLUSION: The current ability of CAD to differentiate between TB and silicosis is limited, but its use as a mass screening tool for both diseases shows considerable promise.

First measurement of neutrino oscillation parameters using neutrinos and antineutrinos by NOvA

The NOvA experiment has seen a 4.4σ signal of ν[over ¯]_{e} appearance in a 2 GeV ν[over ¯]_{μ} beam at a distance of 810 km. Using 12.33×10^{20} protons on target delivered to the Fermilab NuMI neutrino beamline, the experiment recorded 27 ν[over ¯]_{μ}→ν[over ¯]_{e} candidates with a background of 10.3 and 102 ν[over ¯]_{μ}→ν[over ¯]_{μ} candidates. This new antineutrino data are combined with neutrino data to measure the parameters |Δm_{32}^{2}|=2.48_{-0.06}^{+0.11}×10^{-3}  eV^{2}/c^{4} and sin^{2}θ_{23} in the ranges from (0.53-0.60) and (0.45-0.48) in the normal neutrino mass hierarchy. The data exclude most values near δ_{CP}=π/2 for the inverted mass hierarchy by more than 3σ and favor the normal neutrino mass hierarchy by 1.9σ and θ_{23} values in the upper octant by 1.6σ.

On the system stability and calibration of the image plate/scanner system for plasma diagnosis at the National Ignition Facility

At the National Ignition Facility (NIF), storage phosphor image plates (IP) are used extensively for recording x-rays, charged particles, and neutrons. For x-ray imaging and spectroscopy, absolute and relative calibrations are important for extracting plasma information from the diagnostics. We use Fuji MS, SR, and TR image plates that have been cut to fit custom diagnostic envelopes. The image plates are scanned on a General Electric FLA 7000 IP flying spot scanner. Calibrations for sensitivity, spatial scale, and temperature dependent fade are applied. During a set of recent calibrations, we noticed large shifts in the absolute calibration of the image plate system. The possible source of these shifts is discussed. We discuss scanner stability and a method for calibration. We discuss the fade and temperature effects of the image plates and how this correction is applied within the NIF environment. We also compare our NIF GE FLA 7000 IP scanner with a new General Electric Amersham Typhoon IP scanner.

Simultaneous visualization of wall motion, beam propagation, and implosion symmetry on the National Ignition Facility (invited)

Achieving a symmetric implosion in National Ignition Facility indirect drive targets requires understanding and control of dynamic changes to the laser power transport in the hohlraum. We developed a new experimental platform to simultaneously visualize wall-plasma motion and dynamic laser power transport in the hohlraum and are using it to investigate correlations of these measurements with the imploded capsule symmetry. In a series of experiments where we made one single parameter variation, we show the value of this new platform in developing an understanding of laser transport and implosion symmetry. This platform also provides a new way to evaluate dynamic performance of advanced hohlraum designs.

Oxidative Stress and Cardiovascular Risk in Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus: Insights From the DCCT/EDIC Study

Background

Hyperglycemia leading to increased oxidative stress is implicated in the increased risk for the development of macrovascular and microvascular complications in patients with type 1 diabetes mellitus.

Methods and Results

A random subcohort of 349 participants was selected from the DCCT / EDIC (Diabetes Control and Complications Trial/Epidemiology of Diabetes Interventions and Complications) cohort. This included 320 controls and 29 cardiovascular disease cases that were augmented with 98 additional known cases to yield a case cohort of 447 participants (320 controls, 127 cases). Biosamples from DCCT baseline, year 1, and closeout of DCCT , and 1 to 2 years post‐ DCCT ( EDIC years 1 and 2) were measured for markers of oxidative stress, including plasma myeloperoxidase, paraoxonase activity, urinary F 2α isoprostanes, and its metabolite, 2,3 dinor‐8 iso prostaglandin F 2α . Following adjustment for glycated hemoblobin and weighting the observations inversely proportional to the sampling selection probabilities, higher paraoxonase activity, reflective of antioxidant activity, and 2,3 dinor‐8 iso prostaglandin F 2α , an oxidative marker, were significantly associated with lower risk of cardiovascular disease (−4.5% risk for 10% higher paraoxonase, P <0.003; −5.3% risk for 10% higher 2,3 dinor‐8 iso prostaglandin F 2α , P =0.0092). In contrast, the oxidative markers myeloperoxidase and F 2α isoprostanes were not significantly associated with cardiovascular disease after adjustment for glycated hemoblobin. There were no significant differences between DCCT intensive and conventional treatment groups in the change in all biomarkers across time segments.

Conclusions

Heightened antioxidant activity (rather than diminished oxidative stress markers) is associated with lower cardiovascular disease risk in type 1 diabetes mellitus, but these biomarkers did not change over time with intensification of glycemic control.

Clinical Trial Registration

URL : https://www.clinicaltrials.gov . Unique identifiers: NCT 00360815 and NCT 00360893.

Participatory theatre and tuberculosis: a feasibility study with South African health care workers

SETTING

Health care workers (HCWs) in South Africa have a risk of acquiring tuberculosis (TB) that is twice that of the general population. Nonetheless, adherence to infection control and TB disclosure requirements remain problematic.

OBJECTIVE

To gain insight into the feasibility of an educational participatory theatre intervention to reduce the risk of occupational TB.

DESIGN

An intervention using participatory theatre was developed progressively over six consecutive sessions with different groups of HCWs, totalling 83 participants. Videos of the sessions, field notes, observations, interviews and a post-experience survey were analysed to ascertain feasibility.

RESULTS

The intervention was acceptable to participants, met a defined demand, proved adaptable to the target group and was practical if done during working hours or if integrated into already existing training sessions. The theatre work shed light on where to focus educational interventions. Preliminary efficacy outcomes included strengthened social cohesion via group work and reports of subsequent greater vigilance regarding occupational TB.

CONCLUSION

Participatory theatre techniques may offer a useful, culturally appropriate supplement to existing educational approaches to the prevention and management of occupational TB. Given the limitations in resources and our assessment of feasibility, training existing health care educators in such techniques would be a promising next step.

Rhabdomyolysis with acute tubular necrosis following occupational inhalation of thinners

Thinners are mixtures of organic solvents commonly containing toluene, xylene, acetone, hexane, benzene and methyl isobutyl ketone. This report describes a case of rhabdomyolysis with acute tubular necrosis and renal failure, most likely attributable to toluene, following occupational exposure to thinners while cleaning a steel water tank. These adverse health effects have previously been reported following acute poisoning or intentional inhalation by drug abusers, but rarely in the occupational setting. Poor working conditions, lack of health and safety training and delayed treatment contributed to the onset and severity of the patient's complications. This case emphasizes the need for strict control measures, including adequate ventilation, training on working in confined spaces, appropriate personal protective equipment and emergency rescue procedures in such settings. In addition, rhabdomyolysis, acute tubular necrosis and renal failure should be added to safety data material as possible complications of excessive inhalation of thinners.

Measurement of the Neutrino Mixing Angle θ_{23} in NOvA

This Letter reports new results on muon neutrino disappearance from NOvA, using a 14 kton detector equivalent exposure of 6.05×10^{20} protons on target from the NuMI beam at the Fermi National Accelerator Laboratory. The measurement probes the muon-tau symmetry hypothesis that requires maximal θ_{23} mixing (θ_{23}=π/4). Assuming the normal mass hierarchy, we find Δm_{32}^{2}=(2.67±0.11)×10^{-3}  eV^{2} and sin^{2}θ_{23} at the two statistically degenerate values 0.404_{-0.022}^{+0.030} and 0.624_{-0.030}^{+0.022}, both at the 68% confidence level. Our data disfavor the maximal mixing scenario with 2.6σ significance.

Aflibercept as a Second Line Therapy for Neovascular Age Related Macular Degeneration in Israel (ASLI) study

PurposeThe purpose of this study is to evaluate an early switch to aflibecept in eyes with neovascular age-related macular degeneration (nvAMD) showing partial or lack of response for initial therapy with bevacizumab.MethodsThe Aflibercept as a Second Line Therapy for Neovascular Age Related Macular Degeneration in Israel (ASLI) was a prospective, multicenter, single-arm clinical trial. Eyes with nvAMD having incomplete response to 3-9 prior bevacizumab injections were recruited. Three monthly intravitreal aflibercept (2 mg) injections were administered, followed by two bi-monthly injections and a final examination at week 28. An optional injection was allowed at week 20.ResultsForty-seven eyes of 46 patients (mean±SD age 76±8 years) were recruited. The mean number of prior bevacizumab injections was 5.5±2.9. The mean visual acuity improved from 60.3±10 ETDRS letters at baseline to 63.1±15 letters at week 28 (P=0.02, paired t-test). The central subfield thickness (CST) reduced from 409±127 micron at baseline to 330±110 microns at week 4 (P=0.0002; paired t-test), and 277±70 microns at week 28 (P=0.00002; paired t-test). Twenty-two eyes had three to five prior bevacizumab injections (mean 5.1±0.7), and 25 eyes had six to nine prior injections (7.32±1.2). Both groups had reduced CST from baseline to week 28 (P=0.0004 and P=0.0007; paired t-test, respectively). Thirty-five (75%) eyes required the optional additional aflibercept injection at week 20.ConclusionsThe ASLI study demonstrated improved BCVA and reduced CST following an early switch to aflibercept therapy in eyes with prior incomplete response to initial therapy with three to nine bevacizumab injections.

First Measurement of Electron Neutrino Appearance in NOvA

We report results from the first search for ν_{μ}→ν_{e} transitions by the NOvA experiment. In an exposure equivalent to 2.74×10^{20} protons on target in the upgraded NuMI beam at Fermilab, we observe 6 events in the Far Detector, compared to a background expectation of 0.99±0.11(syst) events based on the Near Detector measurement. A secondary analysis observes 11 events with a background of 1.07±0.14(syst). The 3.3σ excess of events observed in the primary analysis disfavors 0.1π<δ_{CP}<0.5π in the inverted mass hierarchy at the 90% C.L.

First measurement of the form factors in the decays D0 → ρ- e+ ν(e) and D+ → ρ0 e+ ν(e)

The beauty to up quark coupling constant |V(ub)| can be extracted from B → ρ e+ ν(e) combined with the form factors for D → K* e+ ν(e) and B → V ℓ+ ℓ- and D → ρ e+ ν(e). Using the entire CLEO-c ψ(3770) → DD event sample, corresponding to an integrated luminosity of 818  pb(-1) and approximately 5.4×10(6) DD events, we measure the form factors for the decays D0 → ρ- e+ ν(e) and D+ → ρ0 e+ ν(e) for the first time and the branching fractions with improved precision. A four-dimensional unbinned maximum likelihood fit determines the form factor ratios to be V(0)/A1(0)=1.48±0.15±0.05 and A2(0)/A1(0)=0.83±0.11±0.04. Assuming Cabibbo-Kobayashi-Maskawa unitarity, the known D meson lifetimes, and our measured branching fractions we obtain the form factor normalizations A1(0), A2(0), and V(0). We also present a measurement of the branching fraction for D+ → ω e+ ν(e) with improved precision.

Observation of the h(c)(1P) Using e+ e- collisions above the DD threshold

Using 586  pb(-1) of e+ e- collision data at E(c.m.) = 4170  MeV, produced at the Cornell Electron Storage Ring collider and collected with the CLEO-c detector, we observe the process e+ e- → π+ π- h(c)(1P). We measure its cross section to be 15.6±2.3±1.9±3.0  pb, where the third error is due to the external uncertainty on the branching fraction of ψ(2S) → π0 h(c)(1P), which we use for normalization. We also find evidence for e+ e- → ηh(c)(1P) at 4170 MeV at the 3σ level and see hints of a rise in the e+ e- → π+ π- h(c)(1P) cross section at 4260 MeV.

Limits on neutrino emission from gamma-ray bursts with the 40 string IceCube detector

IceCube has become the first neutrino telescope with a sensitivity below the TeV neutrino flux predicted from gamma-ray bursts if gamma-ray bursts are responsible for the observed cosmic-ray flux above 10(18)  eV. Two separate analyses using the half-complete IceCube detector, one a dedicated search for neutrinos from pγ interactions in the prompt phase of the gamma-ray burst fireball and the other a generic search for any neutrino emission from these sources over a wide range of energies and emission times, produced no evidence for neutrino emission, excluding prevailing models at 90% confidence.

Predictive factors for latent tuberculosis infection among adolescents in a high-burden area in South Africa

SETTING

A high tuberculosis (TB) burden area in South Africa (notification rate for all TB cases 1400 per 100 000 population).

OBJECTIVE

To determine the prevalence of and predictive factors associated with latent TB infection in adolescents.

DESIGN

Adolescents aged 12-18 years were recruited from high schools, clinical and demographic data were collected, and a tuberculin skin test (TST) and a QuantiFERON®-TB Gold In-Tube (QFT) assay performed.

RESULTS

A total of 6363 (58.2%) of 10 942 adolescents at the schools were enrolled. After exclusions, of 5244 participants, 55.2% (95%CI 53.8-56.5) had TST ≥ 5 mm, while 50.9% (49.5-52.2) were QFT-positive. On multivariate analysis, Black/mixed race racial groups, male sex, older age, household TB contact, low income and low education level were predictive factors for both TST- and QFT-positive results.

CONCLUSION

About half of the adolescents were found to be latently infected with TB in a high TB burden area with demographic and poverty-related socio-economic factors predicting the risk of TB infection. Adolescents from deprived communities should be considered an important target group for educational interventions by TB control programmes in high-burden settings.

Extending the search for neutrino point sources with IceCube above the horizon

Point source searches with the IceCube neutrino telescope have been restricted to one hemisphere, due to the exclusive selection of upward going events as a way of rejecting the atmospheric muon background. We show that the region above the horizon can be included by suppressing the background through energy-sensitive cuts. This improves the sensitivity above PeV energies, previously not accessible for declinations of more than a few degrees below the horizon due to the absorption of neutrinos in Earth. We present results based on data collected with 22 strings of IceCube, extending its field of view and energy reach for point source searches. No significant excess above the atmospheric background is observed in a sky scan and in tests of source candidates. Upper limits are reported, which for the first time cover point sources in the southern sky up to EeV energies.

Limits on a muon flux from neutralino annihilations in the sun with the IceCube 22-string detector

A search for muon neutrinos from neutralino annihilations in the Sun has been performed with the IceCube 22-string neutrino detector using data collected in 104.3 days of live time in 2007. No excess over the expected atmospheric background has been observed. Upper limits have been obtained on the annihilation rate of captured neutralinos in the Sun and converted to limits on the weakly interacting massive particle (WIMP) proton cross sections for WIMP masses in the range 250-5000 GeV. These results are the most stringent limits to date on neutralino annihilation in the Sun.

Observation of D+ --> etae + nue

Using a 281 pb-1 data sample collected at the psi(3770) resonance with the CLEO-c detector at the Cornell Electron Storage Ring, we report the first observation of D+ --> etae + nue. We also set upper limits for D+ --> eta'e + nue and D + --> varphie + nue that are about 2 orders of magnitude more restrictive than those obtained by previous experiments.

Observation of eta' decays to pi+pi-pi0 and pi+pi-e+e-

Using psi(2S)-->pi;{+}pi;{-}J/psi, J/psi-->gammaeta;{'} events acquired with the CLEO-c detector at the CESR e;{+}e;{-} collider, we make the first observations of the decays eta;{'}-->pi;{+}pi;{-}pi;{0} and eta;{'}-->pi;{+}pi;{-}e;{+}e;{-}, measuring absolute branching fractions (37_{-9};{+11}+/-4)x10;{-4} and (25_{-9};{+12}+/-5)x10;{-4}, respectively. For eta;{'}-->pi;{+}pi;{-}pi;{0}, this result probes the mechanism of isospin violation and the roles of pi;{0}/eta/eta;{'}-mixing and final state rescattering in strong decays. We also set upper limits on branching fractions for eta;{'} decays to pi;{+}pi;{-}micro;{+}micro;{-}, 2(pi;{+}pi;{-}), pi;{+}pi;{-}2pi;{0}, 2(pi;{+}pi;{-})pi;{0}, 3(pi;{+}pi;{-}), and invisible final states.

J/psi and psi(2S) Radiative Transitions to eta_{c}

Using 2.45x10;{7} psi(2S) decays collected with the CLEO-c detector at the Cornell Electron Storage Ring we present the most precise measurements of magnetic dipole transitions in the charmonium system. We measure B(psi(2S)-->gammaeta_{c})=(4.32+/-0.16+/-0.60)x10;{-3}, B(J/psi-->gammaeta_{c})/B(psi(2S)-->gammaeta_{c})=4.59+/-0.23+/-0.64, and B(J/psi-->gammaeta_{c})=(1.98+/-0.09+/-0.30)%. We observe a distortion in the eta_{c} line shape due to the photon-energy dependence of the magnetic dipole transition rate. We find that measurements of the eta_{c} mass are sensitive to the line shape, suggesting an explanation for the discrepancy between measurements of the eta_{c} mass in radiative transitions and other production mechanisms.

Search for lepton flavor violation in upsilon decays

In this Letter, we describe a search for lepton flavor violation (LFV) in the bottomonium system. We search for leptonic decays Upsilon(nS)-->mutau (n=1, 2, and 3) using the data collected with the CLEO III detector. We identify the tau lepton using its leptonic decay nu_{tau}nu[over ]_{e}e and utilize multidimensional likelihood fitting with probability density function shapes measured from independent data samples. We report our estimates of 95% C.L. upper limits on LFV branching fractions of Upsilon mesons. We interpret our results in terms of the exclusion plot for the energy scale of a hypothetical new interaction versus its effective LFV coupling in the framework of effective field theory.

Observation of Upsilon(2S)-->etaUpsilon(1S) and search for related transitions

We report the first observation of Upsilon(2S)-->etaUpsilon(1S), with a branching fraction B=(2.1(-0.6)+0.7(stat)+/-0.3(syst)) x 10(-4) and a statistical significance 5.3sigma. Data were acquired with the CLEO III detector at the CESR e+e(-) symmetric collider. This is the first process observed involving a b-quark spin flip. For related transitions, 90% confidence limits in units of 10(-4) are B(Upsilon(2S)-->pi0Upsilon(1S)) < 1.8, B(Upsilon(3S)-->etaUpsilon(1S)) < 1.8, B(Upsilon(3S)-->pi0Upsilon(1S)) < 0.7, and B(Upsilon(3S)-->pi0Upsilon(2S)) < 5.1.

Precision measurement of the mass of the hc(1P1) state of charmonium

A precision measurement of the mass of the h_{c}(1P1) state of charmonium has been made using a sample of 24.5x10;{6} psi(2S) events produced in e;{+}e;{-} annihilation at the Cornell Electron Storage Ring (CESR). The reaction used was psi(2S)-->pi;{0}h_{c}, pi;{0}-->gammagamma, h_{c}-->gammaeta_{c}, and the reaction products were detected in the CLEO-c detector. Data have been analyzed both for the inclusive reaction and for the exclusive reactions in which eta_{c} decays are reconstructed in 15 hadronic decay channels. Consistent results are obtained in the two analyses. The averaged results of the present measurements are M(h_{c})=3525.28+/-0.19(stat.)+/-0.12(syst.) MeV, and B(psi(2S)-->pi;{0}h_{c})xB(h_{c}-->gammaeta_{c})=(4.19+/-0.32+/-0.45)x10;{-4}. Using the ;{3}P_{J} centroid mass, DeltaM_{hf}(1P) identical withM(chi_{cJ})-M(h_{c})=+0.02+/-0.19+/-0.13 MeV.

Measurement of the eta'-meson mass using J/psi-->gammaeta'

We measure the mass of the eta;{'} meson using psi(2S)-->pi;{+}pi;{-}J/psi, J/psi-->gammaeta;{'} events acquired with the CLEO-c detector operating at the CESR e;{+}e;{-} collider. Using three decay modes, eta;{'}-->rho;{0}gamma, eta;{'}-->pi;{+}pi;{-}eta with eta-->gammagamma, and eta;{'}-->pi;{+}pi;{-}eta with eta-->pi;{+}pi;{-}pi;{0}, we find M_{eta;{'}}=957.793+/-0.054+/-0.036 MeV, in which the uncertainties are statistical and systematic, respectively. This result is consistent with but substantially more precise than the current world average.

Observation of chicJ radiative decays to light vector mesons

Using a total of 2.74 x 10(7) decays of the psi(2S) collected with the CLEO-c detector, we present a study of chi(cJ)-->gammaV, where V=rho(0), omega, phi. The transitions chi(c1)-->gammarho(0 and chi(c1)-->gammaomega are observed with B(chi(c1)-->gammarho(0))=(2.43+/-0.19+/-0.22) x 10(-4) and B(chi(c1)-->gammaomega)=(8.3+/-1.5+/-1.2) x 10(-5). In the chi(c1)-->gammarho(0) transition, the final state meson is dominantly longitudinally polarized. Upper limits on the branching fractions of other chi(cJ) states to light vector mesons are presented.

Search for very light CP-odd Higgs Boson in radiative decays of Upsilon(1S)

We search for a non-SM-like CP-odd Higgs boson (a(1)(0)) decaying to tau(+)tau(-) or mu(+)mu(-) in radiative decays of the Upsilon(1S). No significant signal is found, and upper limits on the product branching ratios are set. Our tau(+)tau(-) results are almost 2 orders of magnitude more stringent than previous upper limits. Our data provide no evidence for a Higgs state with a mass of 214 MeV decaying to mu(+)mu(-), previously proposed as an explanation for 3 Sigma(+)-->pmu(+)mu(-) events observed by the HyperCP experiment. Our results constrain NMSSM models.

Observation of J/psi-->3gamma

We report the first observation of the decay J/psi-->3gamma. The signal has a statistical significance of 6sigma and corresponds to a branching fraction of B(J/psi-->3gamma)=(1.2+/-0.3+/-0.2)x10;{-5}, in which the errors are statistical and systematic, respectively. The measurement uses psi(2S)-->pi;{+}pi;{-}J/psi events acquired with the CLEO-c detector operating at the CESR e;{+}e;{-} collider.

Study of the decays D0-->pi{-}e{+}nu{e}, D{0}-->K{-}e{+}nu{e}, D{+}-->pi{0}e{+}nu{e}, and D{+}-->K0e{+}nu{e}

By using 1.8x10{6} DDpairs, we have measured B(D{0}-->pi{-}e{+}nu{e})=0.299(11)(9)%, B(D{+}-->pi{0}e{+}nu{e})=0.373(22)(13)%, B(D{0}-->K{-}e{+}nu{e})=3.56(3)(9)%, and B(D{+}-->K{0}e{+}nu{e})=8.53(13)(23)% and have studied the q;{2} dependence of the form factors. By combining our results with recent lattice calculations, we obtain |V{cd}|=0.217(9)(4)(23) and |V{cs}|=1.015(10)(11)(106).

Determination of the strong phase in D0-->K+pi- using quantum-correlated measurements

We exploit the quantum coherence between pair-produced D0 and D[over]0 in psi(3770) decays to study charm mixing, which is characterized by the parameters x and y, and to make a first determination of the relative strong phase delta between D0-->K+pi- and D[over]0-->K+pi-. Using 281 pb(-1) of e+e- collision data collected with the CLEO-c detector at Ecm=3.77 GeV, as well as branching fraction input and time-integrated measurements of RM identical with (x2 + y2)/2 and RWS identical with Gamma(D0-->K+pi-)/Gamma(D[over]0-->K+pi-) from other experiments, we find cosdelta=1.03(-0.17)(+0.31)+/-0.06, where the uncertainties are statistical and systematic, respectively. By further including other mixing parameter measurements, we obtain an alternate measurement of cosdelta=1.10+/-0.35+/-0.07, as well as x sindelta=(4.4(-1.8)(+2.7)+/-2.9)x10(-3) and delta=(22(-12-11)(+11+9)) degrees .

First observation of the decay Ds+-->pn

Using e+e--->Ds*-Ds+ data collected near the peak Ds production energy, Ecm=4170 MeV, with the CLEO-c detector, we present the first observation of the decay Ds+-->pn. We measure a branching fraction B(Ds+-->pn)=(1.30+/-0.36(-0.16)+0.12)x10(-3). This is the first observation of a charmed meson decaying into a baryon-antibaryon final state.

Measurement of the absolute branching fraction of Ds+ --> tau+ nutau decay

Using a sample of tagged D(s)(+) decays collected near the D(s)(*+/-)D(s)(-/+) peak production energy in e(+)e(-) collisions with the CLEO-c detector, we study the leptonic decay D(s)(+)-->tau(+)nu(tau) via the decay channel tau(+)-->e(+)nu(e)nu(tau). We measure B(D(s)(+)-->tau(+)nu(tau))=(6.17+/-0.71+/-0.34)%, where the first error is statistical and the second systematic. Combining this result with our measurements of D(s)(+)-->mu(+)nu(mu) and D(s)(+)-->tau(+)nu(tau) (via tau(+)-->pi(+)nu(tau)), we determine f(D(s))=(274+/-10+/-5) MeV.

Absolute measurement of hadronic branching fractions of the Ds+ meson

The branching fractions of D(s)(+/-) meson decays serve to normalize many measurements of processes involving charm quarks. Using 298 pb(-1) of e(+)e(-) collisions recorded at a center of mass energy of 4.17 GeV, we determine absolute branching fractions for eight D(s)(+/-) decays with a double tag technique. In particular we determine the branching fraction B(D(s)(+)-->K(-)K(+}pi(+))=(5.50+/-0.23+/-0.16)%, where the uncertainties are statistical and systematic, respectively. We also provide partial branching fractions for kinematic subsets of the K(-)K(+)pi(+) decay mode.

The effect of sildenafil on ocular blood flow

Sildenafil is a potent phosphodiesterase (PDE) 5 inhibitor that is used for patients with erectile dysfunction. Sildenafil induces vasodilation in selected smooth muscle via increased levels of guanosine 3', 5' cyclic monophosphate and increase in nitric oxide. The vasodilatory effects of the PDE 5 inhibitors led us to review its effect on the ocular vasculature. Sildenafil appears to increase blood flow velocity significantly in the retrobulbar and choroidal circulation. Most studies suggest an increase in choroidal blood flow, with a lesser effect on the retinal vasculature.

Comparison of D--> KS0 pi and D--> KL0 pi decay rates

We present measurements of D--> KS0 pi and D--> KL0 pi branching fractions using 281 pb(-1) of psi(3770) data at the CLEO-c experiment. We find that B(D0--> KS0 pi 0) is larger than B(D0--> KL0 pi 0), with an asymmetry of R(D0)=0.108+/-0.025+/-0.024. For B(D+--> KS0 pi+) and B(D+--> KL0 pi+), we observe no measurable difference; the asymmetry is R(D+)=0.022+/-0.016+/-0.018. The D0 asymmetry is consistent with the value based on the U-spin prediction A(D0--> K0 pi 0)/A(D0--> K0 pi 0)=-tan2 theta C, where theta C is the Cabibbo angle.

Suppressed decays of D(s)(+) mesons to two pseudoscalar mesons

Using data collected near the D{s}{*+}D{s}{-} peak production energy E_{cm}=4170 MeV by the CLEO-c detector, we study the decays of D{s}{+} mesons to two pseudoscalar mesons. We report on searches for the singly Cabibbo-suppressed D{s}{+} decay modes K{+}eta, K{+}eta', pi{+}K{S}{0}, K{+}pi{0}, and the isospin-forbidden decay mode D{s}{+}-->pi{+}pi{0}. We normalize with respect to the Cabibbo-favored D{s}{+} modes pi{+}eta, pi{+}eta', and K{+}K{S}{0}, and obtain ratios of branching fractions: B(D{s}{+}-->K{+}eta)/B(D{s}{+}-->pi{+}eta)=(8.9+/-1.5+/-0.4)%, B(D{s}{+}-->K{+}eta')/B(D{s}{+}-->pi{+}eta')=(4.2+/-1.3+/-0.3)%, B(D{s}{+}-->pi{+}K{S}{0})/B(D{s}{+}-->K{+}K{S}{0})=(8.2+/-0.9+/-0.2)%, B(D{s}{+}-->K{+}pi{0})/B(D{s}{+}-->K{+}K{S}{0})=(5.5+/-1.3+/-0.7)%, and B(D{s}{+}-->pi{+}pi{0})/B(D{s}{+}-->K{+}K{S}{0})<4.1% at 90% C.L., where the uncertainties are statistical and systematic, respectively.

Evidence for the decay D0-->K(-)pi(+)pi(-)e(+)nu(e)

Using a 281 pb{-1} data sample collected at the psi(3770) with the CLEO-c detector, we present the first absolute branching fraction measurement of the decay D0-->K(-)pi(+)pi(-)e(+)nu(e) at a statistical significance of about 4.0 standard deviations. We find 10 candidates consistent with the decay D0-->K(-)pi(+)pi(-)e(+)nu(e). The probability that a background fluctuation accounts for this signal is less than 4.1 x 10{-5}. We find B(D0-->K(-)pi(+)pi(-)e(+)nu(e)) = [2.8{-1.1}{+1.4}(stat)+/-0.3(syst)]x10{-4}. By restricting the invariant mass of the hadronic system to be consistent with K1(1270), we obtain the product of branching fractions B(D{0}-->K{1}{-}(1270)e{+}nu{e})xB(K1-(1270)-->K{-}pi{+}pi{-})=[2.5{-1.0}{+1.3}(stat)+/-0.2(syst)]x10{-4}. Using B(K1-(1270)-->K{-}pi{+}pi{-})=(33+/-3)%, we obtain B(D{0}-->K{1}{-}(1270)e{+}nu{e})=[7.6{-3.0}{+4.1}(stat)+/-0.6(syst)+/-0.7]x10{-4}. The last error accounts for the uncertainties in the measured K1-(1270)-->K{-}pi{+}pi{-} branching fractions.

Hairdressing and the prevalence of scalp disease in African adults

BACKGROUND

Anecdotal reports suggest that certain scalp disorders are common in Africans and may be associated with hairstyles.

OBJECTIVES

This study of 874 African adults in Cape Town was performed to test this hypothesis.

METHODS

A questionnaire was administered and scalp examinations performed, after ethics approval.

RESULTS

Participants included 30.9% men and 69.1% women (median age 36.1 years, range 18-99). Most men had natural hair: 91.7% vs. 24.3% women. The majority of men had recent haircuts (< 4 weeks): 74.8% vs. 9.9% women. The overall prevalence of acne (folliculitis) keloidalis nuchae (AKN) was 3.5%: higher in men than women (10.5% vs. 0.3%). AKN prevalence was not associated with whether clippers or blades were used. However, it was associated with haircut symptoms. Haircut-associated symptoms, i.e. at least one episode of transient pimples (or crusts) and bleeding (however small) were reported in 37% and 18.9% of men, respectively. The latter may have implications for disease transmission. Most women (58.7%) had chemically treated hair (49.2% relaxed and 9.6% permed hair) vs. 2.3% men. The prevalences of traction alopecia (TA) and central centrifugal cicatricial alopecia (CCCA) were 22.6% and 1.9%: higher in women (31.7% vs. 2.2% and 2.7% vs. 0%, respectively). CCCA was highest in women > 50 years (6.7% vs. 1.2%). TA prevalence was highest if the usual hairstyle was extensions attached to relaxed hair (48%).

CONCLUSION

We found associations between specific scalp diseases, hairstyles, gender, and age. These associations need further study, better to elucidate determinants and to improve disease prevention and treatment.

Randomised controlled trial of isoniazid preventive therapy in South African adults with advanced HIV disease

BACKGROUND

Tuberculosis (TB) preventive therapy is not effective in human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infected adults with negative tuberculin skin tests (TSTs). However, there are insufficient data on patients with advanced HIV disease from high TB incidence areas.

METHODS

We conducted a randomised, double-blind, controlled trial comparing isoniazid (INH) with placebo among TST-negative adults with World Health Organization Stage 3 or 4 HIV disease. INH/placebo was administered for 12 months by patient-nominated supervisors. TST-positive participants were given open-label INH. Participants, who did not have access to antiretroviral therapy (ART), were followed up for 24 months with 6-monthly sputum culture and chest radiography.

RESULTS

A total of 118 participants were enrolled: TST was negative in 98. In the randomised arms, the incidence of TB was 18/100 person-years (py) in the INH arm and 11.6/100 py in the placebo arm (hazard ratio 1.59, 95%CI 0.57-4.49). There were no significant differences in mortality, hospitalisation rate or CD4+ lymphocyte decline. INH/placebo adherence was 85%, and was significantly higher among participants with work-based treatment supervisors.

CONCLUSIONS

We did not find any association between INH preventive therapy and reductions in incident TB among TST-negative adults with advanced HIV disease, but the study had limited statistical power. High levels of adherence were observed with patient-nominated supervisors.