T. Aziz

The cross section for ee+ e- → π+ π- J/ψ between 3.8 and 5.5 GeV is measured with a 967 fb(-1) data sample collected by the Belle detector at or near the Υ(nS) (n = 1,2,…,5) resonances. The Y(4260) state is observed, and its resonance parameters are determined. In addition, an excess of π+ π- J/ψ production around 4 GeV is observed. This feature can be described by a Breit-Wigner parametrization with properties that are consistent with the Y(4008) state that was previously reported by Belle. In a study of Y(4260) → π+ π- J/ψ decays, a structure is observed in the M(π(±)J/ψ) mass spectrum with 5.2σ significance, with mass M = (3894.5 ± 6.6 ± 4.5) MeV/c2 and width Γ = (63 ± 24 ± 26) MeV/c2, where the errors are statistical and systematic, respectively. This structure can be interpreted as a new charged charmoniumlike state.

The L3 experiment is one of the six large detectors designed for the new generation of electron-positron accelerators. It is the only detector that concentrates its efforts on limited goals of measuring electrons, muons and photons. By not attempting to identify hadrons, L3 has been able to provide an order of magnitude better resolution for electrons, muons and photons. Vertices and hadron jets are also studied. The construction of L3 has involved much state of the art technology in new principles of vertex detection and in new crystals for large scale electromagnetic shower detection and ultraprecise muon detection. This paper presents a summary of the construction of L3.

We report a measurement of the branching fraction ratios R(D(*)) of Bbar -> D(*) tau- nubar_tau relative to Bbar -> D()* l- nubar_l (where l = e or mu) using the full Belle data sample of 772 x 10^6 BBbar pairs collected at the Y(4S) resonance with the Belle detector at the KEKB asymmetric-energy e+e- collider. The measured values are R(D)= 0.375 +- 0.064(stat.) +- 0.026(syst.) and R(D*) = 0.293 +- 0.038(stat.) +- 0.015(syst.). The analysis uses hadronic reconstruction of the tag-side B meson and purely leptonic tau decays. The results are consistent with earlier measurements and do not show a significant deviation from the standard model prediction.

We report the observation of two narrow structures in the mass spectra of the π(±)Υ(nS) (n=1, 2, 3) and π(±)h(b)(mP) (m=1, 2) pairs that are produced in association with a single charged pion in Υ(5S) decays. The measured masses and widths of the two structures averaged over the five final states are M(1)=(10,607.2±2.0) MeV/c2, Γ(1)=(18.4±2.4) MeV, and M(2)=(10,652.2±1.5) MeV/c2, Γ(2)=(11.5±2.2) MeV. The results are obtained with a 121.4 fb(-1) data sample collected with the Belle detector in the vicinity of the Υ(5S) resonance at the KEKB asymmetric-energy e+ e- collider.

A distinct peak is observed in the ${\ensuremath{\pi}}^{\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}}{\ensuremath{\psi}}^{\ensuremath{'}}$ invariant mass distribution near 4.43 GeV in $B\ensuremath{\rightarrow}K{\ensuremath{\pi}}^{\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}}{\ensuremath{\psi}}^{\ensuremath{'}}$ decays. A fit using a Breit-Wigner resonance shape yields a peak mass and width of $M=4433\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}4(\mathrm{stat})\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}2(\mathrm{syst})\text{ }\text{ }\mathrm{MeV}$ and $\ensuremath{\Gamma}={45}_{\ensuremath{-}13}^{+18}(\mathrm{stat}{)}_{\ensuremath{-}13}^{+30}(\mathrm{syst})\text{ }\text{ }\mathrm{MeV}$. The product branching fraction is determined to be $\mathcal{B}\mathbf{(}{B}^{0}\ensuremath{\rightarrow}{K}^{\ensuremath{\mp}}{Z}^{\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}}(4430)\mathbf{)}\ifmmode\times\else\texttimes\fi{}\mathcal{B}\mathbf{(}{Z}^{\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}}(4430)\ensuremath{\rightarrow}{\ensuremath{\pi}}^{\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}}{\ensuremath{\psi}}^{\ensuremath{'}}\mathbf{)}=(4.1\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}1.0(\mathrm{stat})\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}1.4(\mathrm{syst}))\ifmmode\times\else\texttimes\fi{}{10}^{\ensuremath{-}5}$, where ${Z}^{\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}}(4430)$ is used to denote the observed structure. The statistical significance of the observed peak is $6.5\ensuremath{\sigma}$. These results are obtained from a $605\text{ }\text{ }{\mathrm{fb}}^{\ensuremath{-}1}$ data sample that contains $657\ifmmode\times\else\texttimes\fi{}{10}^{6}$ $B\overline{B}$ pairs collected near the $\ensuremath{\Upsilon}(4S)$ resonance with the Belle detector at the KEKB asymmetric energy ${e}^{+}{e}^{\ensuremath{-}}$ collider.

We report a measurement of the ratio ${\cal R}(D^*) = {\cal B}(\bar{B}^0 \rightarrow D^{*+} \tau^- \bar{\nu}_{\tau})/{\cal B}(\bar{B}^0 \rightarrow D^{*+} \ell^- \bar{\nu}_{\ell})$, where $\ell$ denotes an electron or a muon. The results are based on a data sample containing $772\times10^6$ $B\bar{B}$ pairs recorded at the $\Upsilon(4S)$ resonance with the Belle detector at the KEKB $e^+ e^-$ collider. We select a sample of $B^0 \bar{B}^0$ pairs by reconstructing both $B$ mesons in semileptonic decays to $D^{*\mp} \ell^{\pm}$. We measure ${\cal R}(D^*)= 0.302 \pm 0.030({\rm stat)} \pm 0.011({\rm syst)}$, which is within $1.6 \sigma$ of the Standard Model theoretical expectation, where the standard deviation $\sigma$ includes systematic uncertainties. We use this measurement to constrain several scenarios of new physics in a model-independent approach.

We present a measurement of angular observables and a test of lepton flavor universality in the B→K^{*}ℓ^{+}ℓ^{-} decay, where ℓ is either e or μ. The analysis is performed on a data sample corresponding to an integrated luminosity of 711 fb^{-1} containing 772×10^{6} BB[over ¯] pairs, collected at the ϒ(4S) resonance with the Belle detector at the asymmetric-energy e^{+}e^{-} collider KEKB. The result is consistent with standard model (SM) expectations, where the largest discrepancy from a SM prediction is observed in the muon modes with a local significance of 2.6σ.

Photovoltaic embedded generation in low-voltage ac networks is quite popular; however, despite its benefits, there are some problems especially when photovoltaic (PV) penetration exceeds certain thresholds. Among others, voltage violation is of prime importance. Our review of the literature focused on PV penetration limits due to voltage violations in low-voltage (LV) networks. The review revealed that voltage violations can occur at a penetration level as low as 2.5% when a large distributed generator (DG) is installed at a single point. Alternatively, a LV network can host a large number of photovoltaic distributed generators (PVDGs), with a penetration level up to 110% if evenly distributed over shorter lengths. However, an LV network has no rules of thumb for safe penetration limits. Penetration-level calculations have been found that they used numerous approaches, which we have analyzed and discussed to adopt a more rational and unified approach. Our literature review revealed that, in LVs, a very high penetration level can be achieved as compared with medium-voltage (MV) networks. However, MV voltage-level control problems impose a limit for PV hosting in LV networks. There is a need to evolve strategies for robust voltage control at the MV level and to develop certain rules of thumb for PV penetration limits in LV networks independent of the MV level, to increase the PV hosting capacity.

With the full data sample of $772 \times 10^6$ $B{\bar B}$ pairs recorded by the Belle detector at the KEKB electron-positron collider, the decay $\bar{B} \rightarrow D^* \tau^- \bar{\nu}_\tau$ is studied with the hadronic $\tau$ decays $\tau^- \rightarrow \pi^- \nu_\tau$ and $\tau^- \rightarrow \rho^- \nu_\tau$. The $\tau$ polarization $P_\tau(D^*)$ in two-body hadronic $\tau$ decays is measured, as well as the ratio of the branching fractions $R(D^{*}) = \mathcal{B}(\bar {B} \rightarrow D^* \tau^- \bar{\nu}_\tau) / \mathcal{B}(\bar{B} \rightarrow D^* \ell^- \bar{\nu}_\ell)$, where $\ell^-$ denotes an electron or a muon. Our results, $P_\tau(D^*) = -0.38 \pm 0.51 {\rm (stat)} ^{+0.21}_{-0.16} {\rm (syst)}$ and $R(D^*) = 0.270 \pm 0.035{\rm (stat)} ^{+0.028}_{-0.025}{\rm (syst)}$, are consistent with the theoretical predictions of the Standard Model. The polarization values of $P_\tau(D^*) > +0.5$ are excluded at the 90\% confidence level.

The latest advancements in cellulose and its derivatives are the subject of this study. We summarize the characteristics, modifications, applications, and properties of cellulose. Here, we discuss new breakthroughs in modified cellulose that allow for enhanced control. In addition to standard approaches, improvements in different techniques employed for cellulose and its derivatives are the subject of this review. The various strategies for synthetic polymers are also discussed. The recent advancements in polymer production allow for more precise control, and make it possible to make functional celluloses with better physical qualities. For sustainability and environmental preservation, the development of cellulose green processing is the most abundant renewable substance in nature. The discovery of cellulose disintegration opens up new possibilities for sustainable techniques. Based on the review of recent scientific literature, we believe that additional chemical units of cellulose solubility should be used. This evaluation will evaluate the sustainability of biomass and processing the greenness for the long term. It appears not only crucial to dissolution, but also to the greenness of any process.

Cellulose is the most abundant polysaccharide on earth. It has a large number of desirable properties. Its low toxicity makes it more useful for a variety of applications. Nowadays, its composites are used in most engineering fields. Composite consists of a polymer matrix and use as a reinforcing material. By reducing the cost of traditional fibers, it has an increasing demand for environment-friendly purposes. The use of these types of composites is inherent in moisture absorption with hindered natural fibers. This determines the reduction of polymer composite material. By appropriate chemical surface treatment of cellulose composite materials, the effect could be diminished. The most modern and advanced techniques and methods for the preparation of cellulose and polymer composites are discussed here. Cellulosic composites show a reinforcing effect on the polymer matrix as pointed out by mechanical characterization. Researchers tried their hard work to study different ways of converting various agricultural by-products into useful eco-friendly polymer composites for sustainable production. Cellulose plays building blocks, that are critical for polymer products and their engineering applications. The most common method used to prepare composites is in-situ polymerization. This help to increase the yields of cellulosic composites with a significant enhancement in thermal stability and mechanical properties. Recently, cellulose composites used as enhancing the incorporation of inorganic materials in multi-functional properties. Furthermore, we have summarized in this review the potential applications of cellulose composites in different fields like packaging, aerogels, hydrogels, and fibers.

Epoxy resins are important thermosetting polymers. They are widely used in many applications i.e., adhesives, plastics, coatings and sealers. Epoxy molding compounds have attained dominance among common materials due to their excellent mechanical properties. The sol-gel simple method was applied to distinguish the impact on the colloidal time. The properties were obtained with silica-based fillers to enable their mechanical and thermal improvement. The work which we have done here on epoxy-based nanocomposites was successfully modified. The purpose of this research was to look into the effects of cellulose nanocrystals (CNCs) on various properties and applications. CNCs have recently attracted a lot of interest in a variety of industries due to their high aspect ratio, and low density which makes them perfect candidates. Adding different amounts of silica-based nanocomposites to the epoxy system. Analyzed with different techniques such as Fourier-transformed infrared spectroscope (FTIR), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) and scanning electronic microscopic (SEM) to investigate the morphological properties of modified composites. The various %-age of silica composite was prepared in the epoxy system. The 20% of silica was shown greater enhancement and improvement. They show a better result than D-400 epoxy. Increasing the silica, the transparency of the films decreased, because clustering appears. This shows that the broad use of CNCs in environmental engineering applications is possible, particularly for surface modification, which was evaluated for qualities such as absorption and chemical resistant behavior.

We report the first observation of a charmoniumlike state recoiling from the J/psi in the inclusive process e+e- -->J/psi+anything at a mass of (3.943+/-0.006+/-0.006) GeV/c{2}. We also observe the decay of this state into D*D[over ] and determine its intrinsic width to be less than 52 MeV/c{2} at the 90% C.L. These results are obtained from a 357 fb{-1} data sample collected with the Belle detector near the Upsilon(4S) resonance, at the KEKB asymmetric-energy e+e- collider.

We present the first evidence of the decay B- --> tau- nu_tau-bar using 414 fb^-1 of data collected at the Upsilon(4S) resonance with the Belle detector at the KEKB asymmetric-energy e+e- collider. Events are tagged by fully reconstructing one of the B mesons in hadronic modes. We detect the signal with a significance of 3.5 standard deviations including systematics, and measure the branching fraction to be Br(B- --> tau- nu_tau-bar) = (1.79 +0.56-0.49(stat) +0.46-0.51(syst))*10^-4. This implies that f_B = 0.229 +0.036-0.031(stat) +0.034-0.037(syst) GeV and is the first direct measurement of this quantity.

We report the results of first physics runs of the L3 detector at LEP. Based on 2538 hadron events, we determined the mass mz0 and the width Γz0 of the intermediate vector boson Z0 to be mz0=91.132±0.057 GeV (not including the 46 MeV LEP machine energy uncertainty) and Γz0=2.588±0.137 GeV. We also determined Γinvisible=0.567±0.080 GeV, corresponding to 3.42±0.48 number of neutrino flavors. We also measured the muon pair cross section and determined the branching ratio Γμμ=Γh=0.056±0.006. The partial width of Z0→e+e− is Γee=88±9±7 MeV.

We observe evidence for D0−¯¯¯D0 mixing by measuring the difference in the apparent lifetime when a D0 meson decays to the CP eigenstates K+K− and π+π− and when it decays to the final state K−π+. We find the relative difference of the lifetimes yCP to be [1.31±0.32(stat)±0.25(syst)]%, 3.2 standard deviations from zero. We also search for a CP asymmetry between D0 and ¯¯¯D0 decays; no evidence for CP violation is found. These results are based on 540 fb−1 of data recorded by the Belle detector at the KEKB e+e− collider.Received 31 March 2007DOI:https://doi.org/10.1103/PhysRevLett.98.211803©2007 American Physical Society

We report the first observation of a near-threshold enhancement in the D(0)D[over](0)pi(0) system from B-->D(0)D[over](0)pi(0)Kappa decays using a 414 fb(-1) data sample collected at the Upsilon(4S) resonance. The enhancement peaks at a mass M=3875.2+/-0.7(+0.3)/(-1.6) +/-0.8 MeV/c2 and the branching fraction for events in the peak is B(B-->D(0)D[over](0)pi(0)Kappa)=(1.22+/-0.31(+0.23)/(-0.30))x10(-4). The data were collected with the Belle detector at the KEKB energy-asymmetric e+ e- collider.

We report a study of the processes e+e−→J/ψD(*)¯¯¯D(*). In J/ψD∗¯¯¯D∗ we observe a significant enhancement in the D∗¯¯¯D∗ invariant mass spectrum, which we interpret as a new charmoniumlike state and denote X(4160). The X(4160) parameters are M=(4156+25−20±15) MeV/c2 and Γ=(139+111−61±21) MeV. We also report a new measurement of the X(3940) mass and width: M=(3942+7−6±6) MeV/c2 and Γ=(37+26−15±8) MeV. The analysis is based on a 693 fb−1 data sample recorded near the Υ(4S) resonance by the Belle detector at the KEKB asymmetric-energy collider.Received 5 October 2007DOI:https://doi.org/10.1103/PhysRevLett.100.202001©2008 American Physical Society

We present the results of an amplitude analysis of ${\overline{B}}^{0}\ensuremath{\rightarrow}J/\ensuremath{\psi}{K}^{\ensuremath{-}}{\ensuremath{\pi}}^{+}$ decays. A new charged charmoniumlike state ${Z}_{c}(4200{)}^{+}$ decaying to $J/\ensuremath{\psi}{\ensuremath{\pi}}^{+}$ is observed with a significance of $6.2\ensuremath{\sigma}$. The mass and width of the ${Z}_{c}(4200{)}^{+}$ are $419{6}_{\ensuremath{-}29\ensuremath{-}13}^{+31+17}\text{ }\text{ }\mathrm{MeV}/{c}^{2}$ and $37{0}_{\ensuremath{-}70\ensuremath{-}132}^{+70+70}\text{ }\text{ }\mathrm{MeV}$, respectively; the preferred assignment of the quantum numbers is ${J}^{P}={1}^{+}$. In addition, we find evidence for ${Z}_{c}(4430{)}^{+}\ensuremath{\rightarrow}\phantom{\rule{0ex}{0ex}}J/\ensuremath{\psi}{\ensuremath{\pi}}^{+}$. The analysis is based on a $711\text{ }\text{ }{\mathrm{fb}}^{\ensuremath{-}1}$ data sample collected by the Belle detector at the asymmetric-energy ${e}^{+}{e}^{\ensuremath{-}}$ collider KEKB.

We measure the branching fraction of B- -> tau- nu_tau-bar using the full Upsilon(4S) data sample containing 772*10^6 BBbar pairs collected with the Belle detector at the KEKB asymmetric-energy e+e- collider. Events with BBbar pairs are tagged by reconstructing one of the B mesons decaying into hadronic final states, and B- -> tau- nu_tau-bar candidates are detected in the recoil. We find evidence for B- -> tau- nu_tau-bar with a significance of 3.0 standard deviations including systematic errors and measure a branching fraction B(B- -> tau- nu_tau-bar) = [0.72^{+0.27}_{-0.25}(stat) +/- 0.11(syst)] * 10^-4.

We perform a full amplitude analysis of B 0 → ψ ′ K + π -decays, with ψ ′ → µ + µ -or e + e -, to constrain the spin and parity of the Z(4430) -.The J P = 1 + hypothesis is favored over the 0 -, 1 -, 2 -and 2 + hypotheses at the levels of 3.4σ, 3.7σ, 4.7σ and 5.1σ, respectively.The analysis is based on a 711 fb -1 data sample that contains 772 × 10 6 B B pairs collected at the Υ(4S) resonance by the Belle detector at the asymmetric-energy e + e -collider KEKB.

We report the first observations of the spin-singlet bottomonium states h(b)(1P) and h(b)(2P). The states are produced in the reaction e(+)e(-)→h(b)(nP)π(+)π(-) using a 121.4 fb(-1) data sample collected at energies near the Υ(5S) resonance with the Belle detector at the KEKB asymmetric-energy e(+)e(-) collider. We determine M[h(b)(1P)]=(9898.2(-1.0-1.1)(+1.1+1.0)) MeV/c(2) and M[h(b)(2P)]=(10,259.8±0.6(-1.0)(+1.4)) MeV/c(2), which correspond to P-wave hyperfine splittings ΔM(HF)=(+1.7±1.5) and (+0.5(-1.2)(+1.6)) MeV/c(2), respectively. The significances of the h(b)(1P) and h(b)(2P) are 5.5σ and 11.2σ, respectively. We find that the production of the h(b)(1P) and h(b)(2P) is not suppressed relative to the production of the Υ(1S), Υ(2S), and Υ(3S).

Recent years have witnessed significant advances in biobased epoxy resins to replace their petroleum-based counterparts, especially diglycidyl ether of bisphenol A type epoxy resin (DGEBA). However, for meeting a great variety of the requirements, long-standing challenges include environmentally friendly preparation of epoxy resin with few toxic byproducts and improving their properties. Herein, we report a facile method to synthesize new silicone-bridged difunctional epoxy monomers in high yield. They are derived from naturally occurring eugenol by introducing the methylsiloxane and phenylsiloxane linkers of different chain lengths into their molecular backbones. These synthesized liquid epoxy monomers have definitive molecular structure with high purity. These silicone-bridged difunctional epoxy monomers exhibit much lower viscosity (<2.5 Pa s) than commercial DGEBA epoxy (10.7 Pa s) suitable for composites and prepregs. After curing, they exhibit a dielectric permittivity as low as 2.8 and good intrinsic flame retardancy with LOI value higher than 31, far outperforming DGEBA. All these advantages are stemmed from their siloxane-contained segments characterized by low polarity, very high dissociation energy, helical molecular structure, and high molecular volume. Overall, this work provides a very facile and scalable route access to a family of the multifunctional eugenol-based epoxy monomers with low dielectric constant and enhanced flame retardancy.

We report a study of $B\to (J/\psi \gamma) K$ and $B\to (\psi' \gamma)K$ decay modes using $772\times 10^{6}$ $B\bar{B}$ events collected at the \Upsilon(4S)$ resonance with the Belle detector at the KEKB energy-asymmetric $e^+ e^-$ collider. We observe $X(3872) \to J/\psi \gamma$ and report the first evidence for $\chi_{c2} \to J/\psi \gamma$ in $B\to (X_{c\bar{c}}\gamma) K$ decays, while in a search for $X(3872) \to \psi' \gamma$ no significant signal is found. We measure the branching fractions, $\mathcal{B}(B^{\pm} \to X(3872) K^{\pm}) \mathcal{B}(X(3872) \to J/\psi\gamma)$ $=$ $(1.78^{+0.48}_{-0.44}\pm 0.12)\times 10^{-6}$, $\mathcal{B} (B^{\pm} \to\chi_{c2} K^{\pm})$$=$ $(1.11^{+0.36}_{-0.34} \pm 0.09) \times 10^{-5}$, $\mathcal{B}(B^{\pm} \to X(3872) K^{\pm}) \mathcal{B}(X(3872) \to \psi'\gamma)$ $<$ $3.45\times 10^{-6}$ (upper limit at 90% C.L.) and also provide upper limits for other searches.

We present measurements of B+→¯¯¯D*0τ+ντ and B+→¯¯¯D0τ+ντ decays in a data sample of 657×106 B¯¯¯B pairs collected with the Belle detector at the KEKB asymmetric-energy e+e− collider. We find 446+58−56 B+→¯¯¯D*0τ+ντ events with a significance of 8.1 standard deviations, and 146+42−41 B+→¯¯¯D0τ+ντ events with a significance of 3.5 standard deviations. The latter signal provides the first evidence for this decay mode. The measured branching fractions are B(B+→¯¯¯D*0τ+ντ)=(2.12+0.28−0.27(stat)±0.29(syst))% and B(B+→¯¯¯D0τ+ντ)=(0.77±0.22(stat)±0.12(syst))%.Received 13 May 2010DOI:https://doi.org/10.1103/PhysRevD.82.072005© 2010 The American Physical Society

We present a determination of the magnitude of the Cabibbo-Kobayashi-Maskawa matrix element $|V_{cb}|$ using the decay $B\to D\ell\nu_\ell$ ($\ell=e,\mu$) based on 711 fb$^{-1}$ of $e^+e^-\to \Upsilon(4S)$ data recorded by the Belle detector and containing $772 \times 10^6$ $B\bar{B}$ pairs. One $B$ meson in the event is fully reconstructed in a hadronic decay mode while the other, on the signal side, is partially reconstructed from a charged lepton and either a $D^+$ or $D^0$ meson in a total of 23 hadronic decay modes. The isospin-averaged branching fraction of the decay $B\to D\ell\nu_\ell$ is found to be $\mathcal{B}(B^0 \to D^- \ell^+ \nu_{\ell})=(2.31\pm 0.03(\mathrm{stat})\pm 0.11(\mathrm{syst}))\%$. Analyzing the differential decay rate as a function of the hadronic recoil with the parameterization of Caprini, Lelouch and Neubert and using the form-factor prediction $\mathcal{G}(1)=1.0541\pm 0.0083$ calculated by FNAL/MILC, we obtain $\eta_\mathrm{EW}|V_{cb}|=(40.12\pm 1.34)\times 10^{-3}$, where $\eta_\mathrm{EW}$ is the electroweak correction factor. Alternatively, assuming the model-independent form-factor parameterization of Boyd, Grinstein and Lebed and using lattice QCD data from the FNAL/MILC and HPQCD collaborations, we find $\eta_\mathrm{EW}|V_{cb}|=(41.10 \pm 1.14)\times 10^{-3}$.

We present the results of a search for the rare decays $B\to h\nu\overline{\nu}$, where $h$ stands for $K^+,\:K^0_{\mathrm{S}},\:K^{\ast +},\:K^{\ast 0},\:\pi^+,\:\pi^0,\:\rho^+$ and $\rho^{0}$. The results are obtained with $772\times10^{6}$ $B\overline{B}$ pairs collected with the Belle detector at the KEKB $e^+ e^-$ collider. We reconstruct one $B$ meson in a semileptonic decay and require a single $h$ meson but nothing else on the signal side. We observe no significant signal and set upper limits on the branching fractions. The limits set on the $B\to K^0_{\mathrm{S}}\nu\overline{\nu}$, $B^0\to K^{*0}\nu\overline{\nu}$, $B\to \pi^+\nu\overline{\nu}$, $B^0\to\pi^0\nu\overline{\nu}$, $B^+\to\rho^+\nu\overline{\nu}$, and $B^0\to\rho^0\nu\overline{\nu}$ channels are the world's most stringent.

We present a measurement of the charmless semileptonic decay $B^0\to\pi^-\ell^+\nu$ using a data sample containing 657$\times 10^6$ $B\bar{B}$ events collected with the Belle detector at the KEKB asymmetric-energy $e^+e^-$ collider operating near the $\Upsilon(4S)$ resonance. We determine the total branching fraction of the decay, $\mathcal{B}(B^0\to\pi^-\ell^+\nu)=(1.49\pm 0.04{(\mathrm{stat})}\pm 0.07{(\mathrm{syst})})\times 10^{-4}$. We also report a new precise measurement of the differential decay rate, and extract the Cabibbo-Kobayashi-Maskawa matrix element $|V_{ub}|$ using model-independent and -dependent approaches. From a simultaneous fit to the measured differential decay rate and lattice QCD results, we obtain $|V_{ub}|=(3.43\pm 0.33)\times 10^{-3}$, where the error includes both statistical and systematic uncertainties.

We report a search for the rare decays B→h(*)ν¯ν, where h(*) stands for K+, K0S, K*+, K*0, π+, π0, ρ+, ρ0 and ϕ. The results are obtained from a 711 fb−1 data sample that contains 772×106B¯¯¯B pairs collected at the Υ(4S) resonance with the Belle detector at the KEKB e+e− collider. We search for signal candidates by fully reconstructing a hadronic decay of the accompanying B meson and requiring a single h(*) meson left on the signal side. No significant signal is observed and we set upper limits on the branching fractions at 90% confidence level. The measurements of B+→K*+ν¯ν, B+→π+ν¯ν, B0→π0ν¯ν and B0→ρ0ν¯ν provide the world’s currently most restrictive limits.Received 15 March 2013DOI:https://doi.org/10.1103/PhysRevD.87.111103© 2013 American Physical Society

We report the analysis of the three-body e^{+}e^{-}→BB[over ¯]π^{±}, BB[over ¯]^{*}π^{±}, and B^{*}B[over ¯]^{*}π^{±} processes, including the first observations of the Z_{b}^{±}(10610)→[BB[over ¯]^{*}+c.c.]^{±} and Z_{b}^{±}(10650)→[B^{*}B[over ¯]^{*}]^{±} transitions that are found to dominate the corresponding final states. We measure Born cross sections for the three-body production of σ(e^{+}e^{-}→[BB[over ¯]^{*}+c.c.]^{±}π^{∓})=[17.4±1.6(stat)±1.9(syst)] pb and σ(e^{+}e^{-}→[B^{*}B[over ¯]^{*}]^{±}π^{∓})=[8.75±1.15(stat)±1.04(syst)] pb and set a 90% C.L. upper limit of σ(e^{+}e^{-}→[BB[over ¯]]^{±}π^{∓})<2.9 pb. The results are based on a 121.4 fb^{-1} data sample collected with the Belle detector at a center-of-mass energy near the ϒ(10860) peak.

Polysilsesquioxanes (RSiO_1.5)_n are organic–inorganic hybrid materials that have an array of properties and synergistic features and are considered to be robust materials in the family of siliceous compounds.

Malachite green (MG) is extensively applied in aquaculture worldwide as a therapeutic agent. MG and its primary metabolite leucomalachite green (LMG) are commonly detected in aquaculture products. MG can cause serious health concerns (in vivo carcinogenic/genotoxic). The extensive water solubility of MG leads to water pollution and hence it is mandatory to remove MG from water. The current study explores adsorptive removal of MG from water using highly water stable Zeolitic Imidazolate framework/graphene oxide composites ([email protected]). Adsorption performance of newly synthesized composites is justified for MG removal with excellent results of pseudo second order (R2 = 0.99955) which is well-fitted in this case. [email protected] data of adsorption isotherm for MG is observed using Freundlich Model (R2 = 0.99999) and with adsorption capacity value observed (134.79 mg/g) with removal efficiency of 99.18%, indicates π-staking and electrostatic association between [email protected] and MG molecules. Synthesized material has retained reusability while removal efficiency reduced only by 6% after many cycles. Furthermore, factors effecting absorption like contact time, pH, adsorbent dose and quantity and temperature are also determined.

Abstract In recent years, bio‐based polymers have emerged as an alternative to petroleum‐based polymers in various industries. The bio‐based materials are made from raw materials originating from natural sources, such as starch, cellulose, chitin, or bio‐degradable synthetic polymers (i.e., polycaprolactone and polylactic acid). In spite of several desirable properties of biodegradable polymers, for example, fully renewable, non‐toxic. Some properties like melt and impact strength, thermal stability, permeability, and so forth, still do not meet the demands for end‐use applications. One way to improve the properties of biopolymers and greatly enhance their commercial potential is to incorporate nanosized reinforcement in the polymer. The access of nano‐carriers to smart polymeric and bio‐materials are limited by polymerization methods. Bio‐polymers are considered an alternative to petroleum‐based fibers. These are directly produced by organisms. Smart nanoparticles are used in different medicines and their applications are size‐dependent. Among the different techniques used for sensitivity, selectivity, and interactions among the nanoparticles. More so, different approaches were found for polymerization. Methodologies such as the preparation of nano‐gels, bio‐degradable, and bio‐polymers manufacturing in the pharmaceutical field are discussed in detail. Their applications, properties in gene delivery, smart imaging, and multivalency approach are also highlighted.

This study is based on the removal of methylene blue (MB) from aqueous solution by cost effective and biodegradable adsorbent carboxymethyl starch grafted polyvinyl pyrolidone (Car-St-g-PVP). The Car-St-g-PVP was synthesized by grafting vinyl pyrolidone onto carboxymethyl starch by free radical polymerization reaction. The structure and different properties of Car-St-g-PVP were determined by 1H NMR, FT-IR, XRD, TGA and SEM. A series of batch experiments were conducted for the removal of MB, The adsorption affecting factors such as temperature, contact time, initial concentration of MB dye, dose of Car-St-g-PVP and pH were studied in detail. The other parameters like the thermodynamic study, kinetics and isothermal models were fitted to the experimental data. The results showed that pseudo 2nd order kinetics and Langmuir's adsorption isotherms were best fitted to experimental data with regression coefficient R2 viz. 0.99 and 0.97. The kinetic study showed that the adsorption mechanism favored chemisorption. The Gibbs free energy (ΔG°) for the adsorption process was found to be -7.31 kJ/mol, -8.23 kJ/mol, -9.00 kJ/mol and -10.10 kJ/mol at 25 °C, 35 °C, 45 °C and 55 °C respectively. The negative values of ΔG° suggested the spontaneous nature of the adsorption process. Similarly, the positive values of entropy (ΔS°) and enthalpy (ΔH°) 91.27 J/k.mol and 19.90 kJ/mol showed the increasing randomness and endothermic nature of the adsorption process. The value of separation factor (RL) was found to be less than one (RL < 1), which supported the feasibility of the adsorption process. The maximum MB removal percentage (% R) was found to be 98.6%. So, these findings show that Car-St-g-PVP can be meritoriously used for the treatment of MB from wastewater.

Background: A new series of malonic acid-based hydrazide derivatives (BPMPDH, 2HPMPDH, 3HPMPDH, 4HPMPDH, DMPDH) are successfully synthesized by the reaction of malonic ester hydrazide with various substituted aldehydes like salicylaldehyde, benzaldehyde, 4-hydroxy benzaldehyde, 3-hydroxy benzaldehyde and formaldehyde) Methods: metal complexes of prepared hydrazide derivatives were prepared using metals like Cu+2, Zn+2 and Ni+2 via a mild, efficient and convenient method. Newly synthesized compounds were characterized by IR, NMR (1H &amp; 13C), UV/VIS and mass spectrometry. The presence of –C=N- peak at 1600-1700 cm-1 with the absence of NH2 peak at 3500 cm-1 in FTIR spectra. In 1HNMR peak at, 11.00-13.00 ppm for –OH protons and 7.00-9.50 ppm for –NH verified the synthesis of new hydrazide derivatives. The presence of a C-OH sharp peak at 180-190 ppm, a C=O peak at 160-170 ppm and a C=N peak at 140-150 ppm confirmed synthesis. In mass spectra, the molecular ion peaks at 308 m/z, 340 m/z and 156 m/z confirmed synthesis. Synthesized compounds have also been analyzed for their antioxidant, antibacterial, antifungal, chymotrypsin and tyrosinase inhibition activities Result and Conclusion: The results revealed that the 2HPMPDH, 3HPMPDH, 4HPMPDH and their Cu+2 and Zn+2 metal complexes showed more successful inhibition against standard drugs, based on structure activity relationship.

Herein, a new series of azo ligands HL-1 (5-(2-chloro-6-(phenylcarbonyl)phenyl)diazenyl)-6-hydroxydihydropyrimidines-2,4dione), HL-2 (5-(2-chloro-6-(phenylcarbonyl)phenyl)diazenyl)-6-hydroxy-2-thioxottetrahydropyrimidin-4one), HL-3 (5-(2,4-dichloro-6-(phenylcarbonyl)phenyl) diazenyl)-6-hydroxydihydropyrimidines-2,4dione), HL-4 (5-(2,4-dichloro-6-(phenylcarbonyl) phenyl)diazenyl)-6-hydroxy-2-thioxotetrahydropyrimidin-4one) and their metal complexes with Cu(II) & Ni(II) were synthesized successfully having excellent yield, in reproducible conditions and for structure elucidation different advance spectroscopic techniques (FTIR, 1H NMR, 13C NMR and Mass Spectrometry) were applied. In FTIR analysis, the absence of peak at 3450-3550 cm-1 due to -NH2 and presence of a new peak of N=N at 1390-1520 cm-1 confirmed synthesis of the ligands. The 1H NMR spectra of azo ligands showed singlet peak at 11.5-13.5 ppm (Ar-OH) for hydroxyl group and -NH2 signals disappearance of anilines at 4-5 ppm also gives strong indication for the synthesis of azo compounds. On complexation two most important peaks (M-O, M-N) appeared in all the metal chelates in the range of 400-600 cm-1 which were not present in any of the ligands, confirmed the formation of complexes. Molecular ion peaks in mass spectra at 273, 388, 407 and 423 m/z value for ligands as well as for complexes at 803, 835, 871 and 904 m/z also give strong indication that proposed ligands and their metal complexes are produced successfully. Biological screening of the synthesized compounds were also carried out against different bacterial strains (E.coli, S.typhi, and B.subtilis), antifungal (C.albicans, A.niger, and C.glabrata) strains and antioxidant activity. From results it was observed that HL-4 and Cu complexes exhibited maximum inhibition against all bacterial and fungal strains as compared to other ligands and standard drug.

Green and efficient removal of polluted materials are essential for the sustainability of a clean and green environment. Nanomaterials, particularly cellulose nanocrystals (CNCs), are abundant in nature and can be extracted from various sources, including cotton, rice, wheat, and plants. CNCs are renewable biomass materials with a high concentration of polar functional groups. This study used succinic anhydride to modify the surface of native cellulose nanocrystals (NCNCs). Succinic anhydride has been frequently used in adhesives and sealant chemicals for a long time, and here, it is evaluated for dye removal performance. The morphology and modification of CNCs studied using FTIR, TGA & DTG, XRD, SEM, AFM, and TEM. The ability of modified cellulose nanocrystals (MCNCs) to adsorb cationic golden yellow dye and methylene blue dye was investigated. The MCNCs exhibited high adsorption affinity for the two different cationic dyes. The maximum adsorption efficiency of NCNCs and MCNCs towards the cationic dye was 0.009 and 0.156 wt%. The investigation for adhesive properties is based on the strength and toughness of MCNCs. MCNCs demonstrated improved tensile strength (2350 MPa) and modulus (13.9 MPa) using E−51 epoxy system and a curing agent compared to 3 wt% composites. This research lays the groundwork for environmentally friendly fabrication and consumption in the industrial sector.

The forward-backward muon detector of the L3 experiment is presented. Intended to be used for LEP 200 physics, it consists of 96 self-calibrating drift chambers of a new design enclosing the magnet pole pieces of the L3 solenoid. The pole pieces are toroidally magnetized to form two independent analyzing spectrometers. A novel trigger is provided by resistive plate counters attached to the drift chambers. Details about the design, construction and performance of the whole system are given together with results obtained during the 1995 running at LEP.

Maxillofacial prosthetic materials are used to replace facial parts lost through disease or trauma. Silicone rubbers are the materials of choice, however it is widely accepted that these materials do not possess ideal properties. The objective of this study was to assess the properties of a range of commercially available silicone rubber maxillofacial materials and make recommendations for improvements.Specimens of five commonly used maxillofacial materials were prepared in dental flasks according manufacturers instructions. Tear strength, tensile strength, percentage elongation, hardness, water absorption and water contact angles were determined for each material.The tear strength of Factor II, Cosmesil HC and Nusil were all comparable and significantly higher than Cosmesil St and Prestige (p<0.001). Nusil had a significantly higher tensile strength and elongation in comparison to the other materials (p<0.001) and Cosmesil St and Cosmesil HC were significantly harder (p<0.001). Factor II was significantly less wetted and Prestige and Cosmsesil St had a significantly higher water absorption in comparison to the other materials.None of the commercially available silicone rubber materials possessed ideal properties for use as a maxillofacial prosthetic material. Factor II, however, showed more favourable properties due to it's high tear strength, softness and ease of manipulation.

We report results on the Dalitz analysis of three-body charmless B + → K + π + π -and B + → K + K + K -decays based on a 140 fb -1 data sample collected with the Belle detector.Measurements of branching fractions for quasi-two-body decays to scalar-pseudoscalar states: B + → f 0 (980)K + , B + → K * 0 (1430) 0 π + , and to vector-pseudoscalar states:Upper limits on decays to some pseudoscalar-tensor final states are reported.We also report the measurement of the B + → χ c0 K + branching fraction in two χ c0 decays channels: χ c0 → π + π -and χ c0 → K + K -.

A search for exotic unstable neutral and charged heavy leptons as well as for stable charged heavy leptons is performed with the L3 detector at LEP. Sequential, vector and mirror natures of heavy leptons are considered. No evidence for their existence is found and lower limits on their masses are set.

We report evidence for direct CP violation in the decay B0-->K+pi(-) with 253 fb(-1) of data collected with the Belle detector at the KEKB e(+)e(-) collider. Using 275x10(6) BB pairs we observe a B-->K+/-pi(-/+) signal with 2140+/-53 events. The measured CP violating asymmetry is A(CP)(K+pi(-))=-0.101+/-0.025(stat)+/-0.005(syst), corresponding to a significance of 3.9sigma including systematics. We also search for CP violation in the decays B+-->K+pi(0) and B+-->pi(+)pi(0). The measured CP violating asymmetries are A(CP)(K+pi(0))=0.04+/-0.05(stat)+/-0.02(syst) and A(CP)(pi(+)pi(0))=-0.02+/-0.10(stat)+/-0.01(syst), corresponding to the intervals -0.05<A(CP)(K+pi(0))<0.13 and -0.18<A(CP)(pi(+)pi(0))<0.14 at 90% confidence level.

We report results on a Dalitz analysis of three-body charmless B+/- --> K+/-pi+/-pi+/- decay including searches for direct CP violation. We report the first observation of the decay B+/- --> f2(1270)K+/- with a statistical significance above 6sigma. We also observe first evidence for large direct CP violation in the B+/- --> rho(770)0K+/- channel. The results are obtained with a data sample that contains 386 10(6) BB pairs collected at the Y(4s) resonance with the Belle detector at the KEKB asymmetric-energy e+e- collider.

Single- and multi-photon events with missing energy are selected in 619 pb−1 of data collected by the L3 detector at LEP at centre-of-mass energies between 189 and 209 GeV. The cross sections of the process e+e−→νν̄γ(γ) are found to be in agreement with the Standard Model expectations, and the number of light neutrino species is determined, including lower energy data, to be Nν=2.98±0.05±0.04. Selection results are given in the form of tables which can be used to test future models involving single- and multi-photon signatures at LEP. These final states are also predicted by models with large extra dimensions and by several supersymmetric models. No evidence for such models is found. Among others, lower limits between 1.5 and 0.65 TeV are set, at 95% confidence level, on the new scale of gravity for the number of extra dimensions between 2 and 6.

We present improved measurements of CP-violation parameters in B0→ϕK0, η′K0, K0SK0SK0S decays based on a sample of 535×106 B¯¯¯B pairs collected at the Υ(4S) resonance with the Belle detector at the KEKB energy-asymmetric e+e− collider. We obtain sin2ϕeff1=+0.64±0.10(stat)±0.04(syst) for B0→η′K0, +0.50±0.21(stat)±0.06(syst) for B0→ϕK0, and +0.30±0.32(stat)±0.08(syst) for B0→K0SK0SK0S decays. We have observed CP violation in the B0→η′K0 decay with a significance of 5.6 standard deviations. We also perform an improved measurement of CP asymmetries in B0→J/ψK0 decays and obtain sin2ϕ1=+0.642±0.031(stat)±0.017(syst).Received 2 October 2006DOI:https://doi.org/10.1103/PhysRevLett.98.031802©2007 American Physical Society

We present a precise measurement of the CP violation parameter sin2phi_1 and the direct CP violation parameter A_f using the final data sample of 772x10^6 B\bar B pairs collected at the Upsilon(4S) resonance with the Belle detector at the KEKB asymmetric-energy e+e- collider. One neutral B meson is reconstructed in a J/psi K0S, psi(2S) K0S, chi_c1 K0S or J/psi K0L CP-eigenstate and its flavor is identified from the decay products of the accompanying B meson. From the distribution of proper time intervals between the two B decays, we obtain the following CP violation parameters: sin2phi_1=0.667+-0.023(stat)+-0.012(syst) and A_f=0.006+-0.016(stat)+-0.012(syst).

We report measurements of B→χ(c1)γK and χ(c2)γK decays using 772×10(6) BB[over ¯] events collected at the Υ(4S) resonance with the Belle detector at the KEKB asymmetric-energy e(+)e(-) collider. Evidence of a new resonance in the χ(c1)γ final state is found with a statistical significance of 3.8σ. This state has a mass of 3823.1±1.8(stat)±0.7(syst) MeV/c(2), a value that is consistent with theoretical expectations for the previously unseen 1(3)D(2) cc[over ¯] meson. We find no other narrow resonance and set upper limits on the branching fractions of the X(3872)→χ(c1)γ and χ(c2)γ decays.

Presence of anti-acetylcholine receptor (anti-AChR) antibodies is highly specific for myasthenia gravis (MG). These antibodies are detected in 85%–95% of sera from patients with generalized MG and 40%–70% of patients with ocular MG.1 An increasing incidence of MG, especially in the elderly population, has been described in Japan, the United Kingdom, and Denmark.2,–,4 Recent studies have also focused on the epidemiology of anti-AChR antibody seropositivity as a surrogate marker of MG.4,–,6 The Neuro-Immunology Laboratory at the University of British Columbia is the sole laboratory in British Columbia (BC), Canada, offering anti-AChR antibody testing for clinical diagnosis. The aims of this study were to evaluate the incidence and epidemiologic characteristics of anti-AChR antibody seropositivity in BC and to examine changes in incidence over time. ### Methods. We performed a population-based study of the incidence of anti-AChR antibody-seropositivity in BC for the 25-year period of January 1, 1984, to December 31, 2008. Incident cases were ascertained by retrospectively identifying all first-time seropositive tests. A positive anti-AChR antibody test …

We report the first evidence for the η(b)(2S) using the h(b)(2P)→η(b)(2S)γ transition and the first observation of the h(b)(1P)→η(b)(1S)γ and h(b)(2P)→η(b)(1S)γ transitions. The mass and width of the η(b)(1S) and η(b)(2S) are measured to be m(η(b)(1S))=(9402.4±1.5±1.8) MeV/c(2), m(η(b)(2S))=(9999.0±3.5(-1.9)(+2.8)) MeV/c(2), and Γ(η(b)(1S))=(10.8(-3.7-2.0)(+4.0+4.5)) MeV. We also update the h(b)(1P) and h(b)(2P) mass measurements. We use a 133.4 fb(-1) data sample collected at energies near the Υ(5S) resonance with the Belle detector at the KEKB asymmetric-energy e(+)e(-) collider.

Voltage rise beyond statuary limits in low voltage (LV) ac networks due to high photovoltaic (PV) penetration and its mitigation using multiple techniques was assessed. Investigations using a real rural domestic overhead LV network were done through load flow simulations. A three-phase four wire medium length LV network with a fixed tap transformer and PV inverters operating at unity power factor was able to host PV between 79%-98% of transformer ratings for five different PV configurations. For the case studied at this penetration level three, limiting factors (voltage, thermal loading limits of lines, and transformer) come together. Three techniques were utilized to control the voltage across the LV network. On load tap changer (OLTC) control was found more robust than reactive power control (RPC). Hybrid control (OLTC and RPC) was found beneficial only for extra high PV penetration scenarios. Replacement of a few critical line spans and the existing transformer with higher capacity conductors and an OLTC equipped transformer (higher size) enabled the network to host an additional 50%-90% PV. The unequal distribution of single-phase PV systems among three phases has negative effects on penetration. Consideration of PV integration while planning new LV networks and retrofitting of OLTCs with existing transformers, could make the LV system more PV friendly. The RPC option, though less effective than OLTC due to increased current, can be beneficial at medium penetrations where OLTC may become a costly solution.

Using the entire Belle data sample of $980\text{ }\text{ }{\mathrm{fb}}^{\ensuremath{-}1}$ of ${e}^{+}{e}^{\ensuremath{-}}$ collisions, we present the results of a study of excited ${\mathrm{\ensuremath{\Omega}}}_{c}$ charmed baryons in the decay mode ${\mathrm{\ensuremath{\Xi}}}_{c}^{+}{K}^{\ensuremath{-}}$. We show confirmation of four of the five narrow states reported by the LHCb Collaboration: the ${\mathrm{\ensuremath{\Omega}}}_{c}(3000)$, ${\mathrm{\ensuremath{\Omega}}}_{c}(3050)$, ${\mathrm{\ensuremath{\Omega}}}_{c}(3066)$, and ${\mathrm{\ensuremath{\Omega}}}_{c}(3090)$.

Received 25 April 2018DOI:https://doi.org/10.1103/PhysRevD.97.099902© 2018 American Physical SocietyPhysics Subject Headings (PhySH)Research AreasFlavor changing neutral currentsParticle decaysParticle interactionsParticles & Fields

Abstract Harvesting biobased silane coupling agent to enhance the connection between fillers and epoxy matrix is vital to achieve sustainable and environmentally friendly products. In this work, a eugenol based epoxy silane‐coupling agent with high purity was prepared and used for the surface modification of nano‐sized silica particles. The surface structure composition and physical properties of the modified nano‐SiO 2 were characterized through nuclear magnetic resonance, Fourier transferred infrared spectrometer, X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy, and thermal gravimetric analyzer. An epoxy nanocomposite was subsequently prepared by incorporating the resulting modified nano‐SiO 2 as an enhancing filler. The nanocomposites glass transition temperature, the morphology of fracture surface, dynamic mechanical properties, and thermostability were investigated. Results showed that the eugenol epoxy silane‐coupling agent bearing a long chain structure of benzene ring in the molecular structure could improve the compatibility of silica fillers with epoxy resin and contribute to a better dispersion state in the matrix, thus enhancing the overall performance of epoxy‐cured products.

Cobalt MOF with morpholine named as KIUB-MOF-1 (KIUB stand for Khalil The Islamia University of Bahawalpur) was successfully synthesized by using simple method in excellent yield and characterized by using FTIR, SEM, BET and XRD. From the characterization it was confirmed that this MOF contains highly porous structure and can be applied for adsorptive elimination of contaminants. Elimination of cationic and anionic dyes followed chemisorption mechanism and monolayer adsorption as confirmed by kinetic parameters. Electrostatic and hydrogen bonding are responsible for elimination of dyes and maximum adsorption capacity was 15,610, 14,721 and 5083 mg/g for anionic (methyl orange) and cationic (methylene blue and malachite green) dyes respectively. According to literature this is the first study to remove organic dyes from brackish water using diethylene oximide (morpholine) based MOF.

Nowadays, the increasingly grim situation caused by foodborne pathogen infection has undoubtedly become the urgent issue in the area of food safety. Recently, more attention has been given to plant essential oils (EOs) due to its excellent antibacterial and antifungal activity with nature origin and eco-friendly. However, EOs meet the strict challenge of limited applications in food industry for its poor solubility and stability. Nanoemulsions (NEs) as an effective nanocarrier and its application in food edible coatings have been utilized to overcome the shortcomings of EOs to maximize lethality against microorganisms and minimize deterioration of the quality of foods. This review gives readers an overview of the physicochemical properties of EOs-loaded NEs. Then, the factors influencing the antibacterial and antifungal ability caused by EOs-loaded NEs and its potential application in edible coatings for food preservation with previous works and recent progress are emphatically discussed. Finally, limitations and future directions are considered and presented to enable EOs-loaded NEs and its edible coatings can be applied as novel and efficient strategies for food safety.

Oil oxidation is important in terms of taste, nutritive component quality and toxic effect of the oil. In this study, the oxidized sunflower oil was used along with chia seed in rabbits for the determination of its effects on various hematological and serum biochemical parameters as well as on liver histopathology. Three rabbits were fed with oxidized oil (obtained by heating) at the dose rate of 2 ml/kg body weight by mixing it with green fodder. The other rabbit groups were fed with Chia seed at dose rate of 1, 2 and 3 g/kg along with oxidized sunflower oil. Chia seed was fed alone to three rabbits at the dose rate of 2 g/kg body weight. All rabbits were fed regularly for twenty-one days. For the determination of hematological and biochemical parameters, whole blood and serum samples were collected on different days during feeding period. For histopathology, liver samples were used. Significant changes (p<0.05) were noted in the hematology and biochemical indices in the rabbits that were fed with oxidized sunflower oil alone, and along with different doses of Chia seed. In a dose-dependent manner, all these parameters were significantly improved (p<0.05), when the amount of Chia seed was increased. The biochemical and hematological indices were in normal range in the group fed only with Chia seed. In oxidized oil fed group, liver histopathological analysis showed that cholestasis was present at both sides (bile pigment secretion) and zone 3 necrosis with mild inflammatory cells. Mild vacuolization of hepatocytes was also observed. In Chia seed fed group, hepatocyte vacuolization and mild necrosis was noted. It was concluded that oxidized sunflower oil alters the biochemical and hematological parameters and causes liver abnormalities. Chia seeds act as an antioxidant and retrieve those alterations.

In this Report, QCD results obtained from a study of hadronic event structure in high energy e+e- interactions with the L3 detector are presented. The operation of the LEP collider at many different collision energies from 91 to 209 GeV offers a unique opportunity to test QCD by measuring the energy dependence of different observables. The main results concern the measurement of the strong coupling constant, αs, from hadronic event shapes and the study of effects of soft gluon coherence in charged particle multiplicity and momentum distributions.

The absolute muon flux between 20 GeV and 3000 GeV is measured with the L3 magnetic muon spectrometer for zenith angles ranging from 0 degree to 58 degree. Due to the large exposure of about 150 m2 sr d, and the excellent momentum resolution of the L3 muon chambers, a precision of 2.3 % at 150 GeV in the vertical direction is achieved. The ratio of positive to negative muons is studied between 20 GeV and 500 GeV, and the average vertical muon charge ratio is found to be 1.285 +- 0.003 (stat.) +- 0.019 (syst.).

Scalar partners of quarks and leptons, predicted in supersymmetric models, are searched for in e^+e^- collisions at centre-of-mass energies between 192GeV and 209GeV at LEP. No evidence for any such particle is found in a data sample of 450 pb^-1. Upper limits on their production cross sections are set and lower limits on their masses are derived in the framework of the Minimal Supersymmetric Standard Model.

We search for neutral heavy leptons that are isosinglets under the standard SU (2)L gauge group. Such neutral heavy leptons are expected in many extensions of the standard model. Three types of heavy leptons Ne, Nμ, Nτ associated with the three neutrino types ve, vμ, vτ have been directly searched for and no evidence for a signal has been found. We set the limit Br(NSu0 → vℓNℓ) < 3 x 10−5 at the 95% CL for mass range from 3 GeV up to Mz.

We present a study of jet multiplicities based on 37 000 hadronic Z0 boson decays. From this data we determine the strong coupling constant αs=0.115±0.005 (exp.)−0.010+0.012 (theor.) to second order QCD at √s=91.22GeV.

We present a precise measurement of the standard model $CP$-violation parameter $\mathrm{sin}2{\ensuremath{\phi}}_{1}$, the direct $CP$ violation parameter $|\ensuremath{\lambda}|$, the lifetimes of charged and neutral $B$ mesons and their ratio, and the ${B}^{0}$-${\overline{B}}^{0}$ mixing parameter $\ensuremath{\Delta}{m}_{d}$ based on a sample of $152\ifmmode\times\else\texttimes\fi{}{10}^{6}$ $B\overline{B}$ pairs collected at the $\ensuremath{\Upsilon}(4S)$ resonance with the Belle detector at the KEKB asymmetric-energy ${e}^{+}{e}^{\ensuremath{-}}$ collider. One of two $B$ mesons is fully reconstructed in a $CP$-eigenstate or a flavor-eigenstate decay channel. The flavor of the accompanying $B$ meson is identified from its decay products. From the distributions of the time interval between the two $B$ meson decay points, we obtain $\mathrm{sin}2{\ensuremath{\phi}}_{1}=0.728\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}0.056(\mathrm{stat})\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}0.023(\mathrm{syst})$, $|\ensuremath{\lambda}|=1.007\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}0.041(\mathrm{stat})\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}0.033(\mathrm{syst})$, ${\ensuremath{\tau}}_{{B}^{0}}=[1.534\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}0.008(\mathrm{stat})\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}0.010(\mathrm{syst})]\text{ }\text{ }\mathrm{ps}$, ${\ensuremath{\tau}}_{{B}^{+}}=[1.635\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}0.011(\mathrm{stat})\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}0.011(\mathrm{syst})]\text{ }\text{ }\mathrm{ps}$, ${\ensuremath{\tau}}_{{B}^{+}}/{\ensuremath{\tau}}_{{B}^{0}}=1.066\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}0.008(\mathrm{stat})\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}0.008(\mathrm{syst})$ and $\ensuremath{\Delta}{m}_{d}=[0.511\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}0.005(\mathrm{stat})\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}0.006{(\mathrm{syst})]\text{ }\text{ }\mathrm{ps}}^{\ensuremath{-}1}$. The results for $\mathrm{sin}2{\ensuremath{\phi}}_{1}$ and $|\ensuremath{\lambda}|$ are consistent with the standard model expectations. The significance of the observed deviation from unity in the lifetime ratio exceeds 5 standard deviations.

The characteristics of the L3 hadron calorimeter as realized in the observation of hadronic jets and other events from e+e− collisions at LEP are presented and discussed. The pattern-recognition algorithm utilizing the fine granulatiry of the calorimeter is described, and the observed overall resolution of 10.2% for hadron jets from Z decay is reported. The use of the calorimeter in providing information on muon energy losses is also noted.

We present a study of the inclusive production of neutral pions and charged particles from 112 000 hadronic Z0 decays. The measured inclusive momentum distributions can be reproduced by parton shower Monte Carlo programs and also by an analytical QCD calculation. Comparing our results to e+e− data between √s = 9 and 91 GeV, we findfind that the evolution of the spectra with center of mass energy is consistent with the QCD predictions.

We present a measurement of the decay B−→τ−ν¯τ using a data sample containing 657×106 BB¯ pairs collected at the Υ(4S) resonance with the Belle detector at the KEKB asymmetric-energy e+e− collider. A sample of B+B− pairs are tagged by reconstructing one B+ meson decaying semileptonically. We detect the B−→τ−ν¯τ candidate in the recoil. We obtain a signal with a significance of 3.6 standard deviations including systematic uncertainties, and measure the branching fraction to be B(B−→τ−ν¯τ)=[1.54−0.37+0.38(stat)−0.31+0.29(syst)]×10−4. This result confirms the evidence for B−→τ−ν¯τ obtained in a previous Belle measurement that used a hadronic B tagging method.Received 21 June 2010DOI:https://doi.org/10.1103/PhysRevD.82.071101© 2010 The American Physical Society

This article describes a determination of the Cabibbo-Kobayashi-Maskawa matrix element $|{V}_{cb}|$ from the decay ${B}^{0}\ensuremath{\rightarrow}{D}^{*\ensuremath{-}}{\ensuremath{\ell}}^{+}{\ensuremath{\nu}}_{\ensuremath{\ell}}$ using $711\text{ }\text{ }{\mathrm{fb}}^{\ensuremath{-}1}$ of Belle data collected near the $\ensuremath{\Upsilon}(4S)$ resonance. We simultaneously measure the product of the form factor normalization $\mathcal{F}(1)$ and the matrix element $|{V}_{cb}|$ as well as the three parameters ${\ensuremath{\rho}}^{2}$, ${R}_{1}(1)$ and ${R}_{2}(1)$, which determine the form factors of this decay in the framework of the heavy quark effective theory. The results, based on about 120 000 reconstructed ${B}^{0}\ensuremath{\rightarrow}{D}^{*\ensuremath{-}}{\ensuremath{\ell}}^{+}{\ensuremath{\nu}}_{\ensuremath{\ell}}$ decays, are ${\ensuremath{\rho}}^{2}=1.214\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}0.034\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}0.009$, ${R}_{1}(1)=1.401\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}0.034\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}0.018$, ${R}_{2}(1)=0.864\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}0.024\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}0.008$ and $\mathcal{F}(1)|{V}_{cb}|=(34.6\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}0.2\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}1.0)\ifmmode\times\else\texttimes\fi{}{10}^{\ensuremath{-}3}$. The branching fraction of ${B}^{0}\ensuremath{\rightarrow}{D}^{*\ensuremath{-}}{\ensuremath{\ell}}^{+}{\ensuremath{\nu}}_{\ensuremath{\ell}}$ is measured at the same time; we obtain a value of $\mathcal{B}({B}^{0}\ensuremath{\rightarrow}{D}^{*\ensuremath{-}}{\ensuremath{\ell}}^{+}{\ensuremath{\nu}}_{\ensuremath{\ell}})=(4.58\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}0.03\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}0.26)%$. The errors correspond to the statistical and systematic uncertainties. These results give the most precise determination of the form factor parameters and $\mathcal{F}(1)|{V}_{cb}|$ to date. In addition, a direct, model-independent determination of the form factor shapes has been carried out.

We report measurements of the branching fractions and direct CP asymmetries (A_{CP}) for B->K pi, pi pi and KK decays (but not pi^0 pi^0) based on the final data sample of 772x10^6 B B-bar pairs collected at the Upsilon(4S) resonance with the Belle detector at the KEKB asymmetric-energy e^+ e^- collider. We set a 90% confidence-level upper limit for K^+- K^-+ at 2.0x10^{-7}; all other decays are observed with branching fractions ranging from 10^{-6} to 10^{-5}. In the $B^0/B^0-bar -> K^+-\pi^-+ mode, we confirm Belle's previously reported large A_{CP} with a value of -0.069 +- 0.014 +- 0.007 and a significance of 4.4 sigma. For all other flavor-specific modes, we find A_{CP} values consistent with zero, including A_{CP}(K^+- \pi^0) = +0.043 +- 0.024 +- 0.007 with 1.8 sigma significance. The difference of CP asymmetry between B^+- -> K^+- pi^0 and B^0/B^0-bar -> K^+-\pi^-+ is found to be Delta A_{K pi} equiv A_{CP} (K^+ pi^0) - A_{CP}(K^+ pi^-) = +0.112 +- 0.027 +- 0.007 with 4.0 sigma significance. We also calculate the ratios of partial widths for the B-> K pi decays. Using our results, we test the validity of the sum rule A_{CP}(K^+ pi^-) + A_{CP}(K^0\pi^+) x Gamma(K^0\pi^+)/Gamma(K^+ pi^-)} - A_{CP}(K^+ pi^0)x 2Gamma(K^+ pi^0)/Gamma(K^+ pi^-) - A_{CP}(K^0 pi^0)x 2Gamma(K^0 pi^0)/Gamma(K^+ pi^-) = 0 and obtain a sum of -0.270 +- 0.132 +- 0.060 with 1.9 sigma significance.

We report the observation of B(s)⁰→J/ψf₀(980) and evidence for B(s)⁰→J/ψf₀(1370), which are CP eigenstate decay modes. These results are obtained from 121.4 fb⁻¹ of data collected at the Υ(5S) resonance with the Belle detector at the KEKB e(+)e⁻ collider. We measure the branching fractions B(B(s)⁰→J/ψf₀(980); f₀(980)→π(+)π⁻)=(1.16(-0.19)(+0.31)(stat)(-0.17)(+0.15)(syst)(-0.18)(+0.26)(N(B(s)((*))B(s)((*)))))×10⁻⁴ with a significance of 8.4σ, and B(B(s)⁰→J/ψf₀(1370); f₀(1370)→π(+)π⁻)=(0.34(-0.14)(+0.11)(stat)(-0.02)(+0.03)(syst)(-0.05)(+0.08)(N(B(s)((*))B(s)((*)))))×10⁻⁴ with a significance of 4.2σ. The last error listed is due to uncertainty in the number of produced B(s)((*))B(s)((*)) pairs.

The cross section for e + e -→ ηJ/ψ between √ s = 3.8 GeV and 5.3 GeV is measured via initial state radiation using 980 fb -1 of data on and around the Υ(nS)(n = 1, 2, 3, 4, 5) resonances collected with the Belle detector at KEKB.Two resonant structures at the ψ(4040) and ψ(4160) are observed in the ηJ/ψ invariant mass distribution.Fitting the mass spectrum with the coherent sum of two Breit-Wigner functions, one obtains B(ψ(4040) → ηJ/ψ) • Γ ψ(4040) e + e - = (4.8± 0.9 ± 1.4) eV and B(ψ(4160) → ηJ/ψ) • Γ ψ(4160) e + e - = (4.0 ± 0.8 ± 1.4) eV for one solution and B(ψ(4040) → ηJ/ψ) • Γ ψ(4040) e + e - = (11.2± 1.3 ± 1.9) eV and B(ψ(4160) → ηJ/ψ) • Γ ψ(4160)e + e - = (13.8± 1.3 ± 2.0) eV for the other solution, where the first errors are statistical and the second are systematic.This is the first measurement of this hadronic transition mode of these two states, and the partial widths to ηJ/ψ are found to be about 1 MeV.There is no evidence for the Y (4260), Y (4360), ψ(4415), or Y (4660) in the ηJ/ψ final state, and upper limits of their production rates in e + e -annihilation are determined.

The KEKB machine and the Belle experiment in Tsukuba (Japan) are now undergoing an upgrade, leading to an ultimate luminosity of 8×1035cm−2s−1 in order to measure rare decays in the B system with high statistics. The previous vertex detector cannot cope with this 40-fold increase of luminosity and thus needs to be replaced. Belle II will be equipped with a two-layer Pixel Detector surrounding the beam pipe, and four layers of double-sided silicon strip sensors at higher radii than the old detector. The Silicon Vertex Detector (SVD) will have a total sensitive area of 1.13m2 and 223,744 channels—twice as many as its predecessor. All silicon sensors will be made from 150 mm wafers in order to maximize their size and thus to reduce the relative contribution of the support structure. The forward part has slanted sensors of trapezoidal shape to improve the measurement precision and to minimize the amount of material as seen by particles from the vertex. Fast-shaping front-end amplifiers will be used in conjunction with an online hit time reconstruction algorithm in order to reduce the occupancy to the level of a few percent at most. A novel “Origami” chip-on-sensor scheme is used to minimize both the distance between strips and amplifier (thus reducing the electronic noise) as well as the overall material budget. This report gives an overview on the status of the Belle II SVD and its components, including sensors, front-end detector ladders, mechanics, cooling and the readout electronics.

We report the first observation of Y(5S) -> Y(nS) pi0 pi0 decays. The neutral partner of the Zb+-(10610), the Zb0(10610) decaying to Y(2,3S) pi0, is observed for the first time with a 6.5 sigma significance using a Dalitz analysis of Y(5S) -> Y(2,3S) pi0 pi0 decays. The results are obtained with a 121.4 fb^-1 data sample collected with the Belle detector at the Y(5S) resonance at the KEKB asymmetric-energy e+e- collider.

A new measurement of the branching fraction of the leptonic decay ${B}^{+}\ensuremath{\rightarrow}{\ensuremath{\tau}}^{+}\phantom{\rule{0}{0ex}}{\ensuremath{\nu}}_{\ensuremath{\tau}}$ confirms previous measurements and agrees with standard model predictions.

Theories beyond the standard model often predict the existence of an additional neutral boson, the $Z^{\prime}$. Using data collected by the Belle II experiment during 2018 at the SuperKEKB collider, we perform the first searches for the invisible decay of a $Z^{\prime}$ in the process $e^+ e^- \to \mu^+ \mu^- Z^{\prime}$ and of a lepton-flavor-violating $Z^{\prime}$ in $e^+ e^- \to e^{\pm} \mu^{\mp} Z^{\prime}$. We do not find any excess of events and set 90\% credibility level upper limits on the cross sections of these processes. We translate the former, in the framework of an $L_{\mu}-L_{\tau}$ theory, into upper limits on the $Z^{\prime}$ coupling constant at the level of $5 \times 10^{-2}$ -- $1$ $M_{Z^\prime}\leq 6$ GeV/$c^2$.

Azo compounds are important class of compounds and have verstile applications in various fields of life. Because of their broad range of applications, it is necessary to have versatile methods of synthesis to have new azo derivatives in good yields. This review covers the synthetic methodology with emphasis on the classical and versatile ones. The overall feasible methods for azo compounds synthesis mentioned in this review includes, diazotization/azo coupling, solvent free-silica supported boron trifluoride, methyl nitrite-active iron based-Japp-Kalingemann, Novartis/Ciba-Geigy-Cupric chloride catalyzed-Mild one-pot two step-nitroamatics and anilines-deoxygenation of nitrobenzene-decomposition of N,N, Ortho para benzoquinonediimines dioxide dehydrogenation, arylhydrazines dimerization reaction of diazonium salts-metal catalyzed coupling, Opening of benzotriazoles-Oxidation of anilines-arylcalcium and nitrous oxide-quinone acetals and arylhydrazines-quinones, reduction of azoxybenzenes and azo-MOFs, etc, which yield azo compounds in good to moderate yields . The most widely used methods to synthesize azo compounds are by Mills reaction and azo coupling which are important in industrial point of view and are extensively used worldwide. Though there are various reported methods to get azo compounds but they have limitations as well. Therefore there is still a need to have latest and efficient methods keeping in view the advantages and disadvantages of above mentioned methods in order to have innovative and more efficient method for synthesis of azo compounds.

The kinetics of ethylene and propylene polymerization catalyzed by homogeneous metallocene were investigated using 2-thiophenecarbonyl chloride followed by quenched-flow methods. The studied metallocene catalysts are: rac-Me2Si(2-Me-4-Ph-Ind)2ZrCl2 (Mt-I), rac-Et(Ind)2ZrCl2 (Mt-II) activated with ([Me2NPh][B(C6F5)4] (Borate-I), [Ph3C][B(C6F5)4] (Borate-II), and were co-catalyzed with different molar ratios of alkylaluminum such as triethylaluminium (TEA) and triisobutylaluminium (TIBA). The change in molecular weight, molecular weight distribution, microstructure and thermal properties of the synthesized polymer are discussed in detail. Interestingly, both Mt-I and Mt-II showed high activity in polyethylene with productivities between 3.17 × 106 g/molMt·h to 5.06 × 106 g/molMt·h, activities were very close to each other with 100% TIBA, but Mt-II/borate-II became more active when TEA was more than 50% in cocatalyst. Similarly, Polypropylene showed the highest activity of 11.07 106 g /molMt·h with Mt-I/Borate-I/TIBA. The effects of alkylaluminum on PE molecular weight were much more complicated; MWD curve changed from mono-modal in Mt-I/borate-I/TIBA to bimodal type when TIBA was replaced by different amounts of TEA. In PE, the active center fractions [C*]/[Zr] of Mt-I/borate were higher than that of Mt-II/borate and average chain propagation rate constant (kp) value slightly decreased with the increase of TEA/TIBA ratio, but the Mt-II/borate systems showed higher kp 1007 kp (L/mol·s). In PP, the Mt-I/borate presented much higher [C*]/[Zr] and kp value than the Mt-II. This work also extend to investigate the mechanistic features of zirconocenes catalyzed olefin polymerizations that addressed the largely unknown issues in zirconocenes in the distribution of the catalyst, between species involved in polymer chain growth and dormant state. In both metallocene systems, chain transfer with alkylaluminum is the dominant way of chain termination. To understand the mechanism of cocatalyst effects on PE Mw and (MWD), the unsaturated chain ends formed via β-H transfer have been investigated by 1H NMR analysis.

Abstract A eugenol‐based silicone‐containing monomer 4,4′‐(1,1,3,3‐tetramethyldisiloxane‐1,3‐dipropyl)bis‐2‐methoxyphenol(EUSi) was synthesized from eugenol and 1,1,3,3‐tetramethyldisiloxane via the hydrosilylation reaction. And waterborne polyurethane (WPU) with excellent properties was obtained by using EUSi as a type of diol chain extender. The unique combination of rigidity and flexibility in the chemical structure of EUSi greatly facilitated the mechanical properties, thermal properties, and water resistance of WPU. With only a 3% dosage of EUSi, the maximum tensile strength was increased from 6.2 to 22.4 MPa, while the water absorption was decreased from 31.3% to a surprisingly 7.6%. Our work provides a new convenient strategy for the preparation of organosilicon‐modified WPU with improved performance.

The formation of the η′ in the reaction e+e−→e+e−η′→e+e−π+π−γ has been measured by the L3 detector at a centre-of-mass energy of 91GeV. The radiative width of the η′ has been found to be Γγγ=4.17±0.10(stat.)±0.27(sys.)keV. The Q2 dependence of the η′ formation cross section has been measured for Q2≤10GeV2 and the η′ electromagnetic transition form factor has been determined. The form factor can be parametrised by a pole form with Λ=0.900±0.046(stat.)±0.022(sys.)GeV. It is also consistent with recent non-perturbative QCD calculations.

We present a measurement of the unitarity triangle angle ${\ensuremath{\phi}}_{3}$ using a Dalitz plot analysis of the three-body decay of the neutral $D$ meson from the ${B}^{\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}}\ensuremath{\rightarrow}{D}^{(*)}{K}^{\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}}$ process. The method employs the interference between ${D}^{0}$ and $\overline{{D}^{0}}$ to extract both the weak and strong phases. We apply this method to a $140\text{ }\text{ }{\mathrm{f}\mathrm{b}}^{\ensuremath{-}1}$ data sample collected by the Belle experiment. The analysis uses the modes ${B}^{\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}}\ensuremath{\rightarrow}D{K}^{\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}}$ and ${B}^{\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}}\ensuremath{\rightarrow}{D}^{*}{K}^{\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}}$, ${D}^{*}\ensuremath{\rightarrow}D{\ensuremath{\pi}}^{0}$, where the neutral $D$ meson decays into ${K}_{S}{\ensuremath{\pi}}^{+}{\ensuremath{\pi}}^{\ensuremath{-}}$. We obtain 146 signal candidates for ${B}^{\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}}\ensuremath{\rightarrow}D{K}^{\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}}$ and 39 candidates for ${B}^{\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}}\ensuremath{\rightarrow}{D}^{*}{K}^{\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}}$. From a combined maximum likelihood fit to the ${B}^{\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}}\ensuremath{\rightarrow}D{K}^{\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}}$ and ${B}^{\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}}\ensuremath{\rightarrow}{D}^{*}{K}^{\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}}$ modes, we obtain ${\ensuremath{\phi}}_{3}=77\ifmmode^\circ\else\textdegree\fi{}\genfrac{}{}{0}{}{+17\ifmmode^\circ\else\textdegree\fi{}}{\ensuremath{-}19\ifmmode^\circ\else\textdegree\fi{}}(\mathrm{\text{stat}})\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}13\ifmmode^\circ\else\textdegree\fi{}(\mathrm{\text{syst}})\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}11\ifmmode^\circ\else\textdegree\fi{}(\mathrm{\text{model}})$. The corresponding 2 standard deviation interval is $26\ifmmode^\circ\else\textdegree\fi{}&lt;{\ensuremath{\phi}}_{3}&lt;126\ifmmode^\circ\else\textdegree\fi{}$.

The structure of hadronic events fromZ 0 decay is studied by measuring event shape variables, factorial moments, and the energy flow distribution. The distributions, after correction for detector effects and initial and final state radiation, are compared with the predictions of different QCD Monte Carlo programs with optimized parameter values. These Monte Carlo programs use either the second order matrix element or the parton shower evolution for the perturbative QCD calculations and use the string, the cluster, or the independent fragmentation model for hadronization. Both parton shower andO(α 2 s matrix element based models with string fragmentation describe the data well. The predictions of the model based on parton shower and cluster fragmentation are also in good agreement with the data. The model with independent fragmentation gives a poor description of the energy flow distribution. The predicted energy evolutions for the mean values of thrust, sphericity, aplanarity, and charge multiplicity are compared with the data measured at different center-of-mass energies. The parton shower based models with string or cluster fragmentation are found to describe the energy dependences well while the model based on theO(α 2 s calculation fails to reproduce the energy dependences of these mean values.

We have measured the decay properties of Z0 → bb from a study of inclusive muon and electron events. The average (e and μ) b-quark semileptonic branching ratio has been determined to be BR (b → ℓ + X) = 0.119 ± 0.003 (stat.) ± 0.006 (syst.), assuming the standard model prediction of Γbb = 378 ± 3 MeV. From the ratio of the number of dilepton events to single lepton events, we find BR (b → ℓ + X) = 0.113 ± 0.010 (stat.) ± 0.006 (syst.), without assumptions on Λbb. The partial decay width of the Z0 into bb has been measured to be Λbb = 385 ± 7 (stat.) ± 11 (syst.) MeV with an additional 19 MeV error from the uncertainty in BR (b → ℓ + X). The average fractional energy of bottom hadrons in Z0 → bb events has been determined to be 〈xE〉 = 0.686 ± 0.006 (stat.) ± 0.016 (syst.).

We have made a precise measurement of the cross section for e+e−→Z0→hadrons with the L3 detector at LEP, covering the s range from 88.28 to 95.04 GeV. From a fit to the Z0 mass, total width, and the hadronic cross section to be MZ0=91.160 ± 0.024 (experiment) ±0.030(LEP) GeV, ΓZ0=2.539±0.054 GeV, and σh(MZ0)=29.5±0.7 nb. We also used the fit to the Z0 peak cross section and the width todetermine Γinvisible=0.548±0.029 GeV, which corresponds to 3.29±0.17 species of light neutrinos. The possibility of four or more neutrino flavors is thus ruled out at the 4σ confidence level.

We have searched for scalar muons μ, scalar electrons ẽ, and winos W̃ from the reactions e+e− →ẽ+ẽ−, μ+μ−, W̃+W̃− at √s ∼ 91 GeV with an integrated luminosity of 157 nb −1. We have searched for μ+μ−, e+e−, or e−μ final states with missing transverse momentum PT > 6 GeV. These final states are signatures for the production of ẽ, μ, and W̃. We found no events. Our results are Mμ > 41 GeV, Mẽ > 41 GeV, and MW̃ > 44 GeV at the 95% confidence level.

Single top production in e+e- annihilations is searched for in data collected by the L3 detector at centre-of-mass energies from 189 to 209 GeV, corresponding to a total integrated luminosity of 634 pb-1. Investigating hadronic and semileptonic top decays, no evidence of single top production at LEP is obtained and upper limits on the single top cross section as a function of the centre-of-mass energy are derived. Limits on possible anomalous couplings, as well as on the scale of contact interactions responsible for single top production are determined.

We have studied the reactionse + e −→hadrons,e + e −, μ+ μ− and τ+ τ−, in the energy range 88.2 $$ \leqq \sqrt s \leqq 94.2$$ GeV. A total luminosity of 5.5 pb−1, corresponding to approximately 115000 hadronic and 10000 leptonicZ 0 decays, has been recorded with the L3 detector. From a simultaneous fit to all of our measured cross section data, we obtain assuming lepton universality: $$\begin{gathered} M_z = 91.181 \pm 0.010 \pm 0.02 (LEP) GeV, \hfill \\ \Gamma _z = 2501 \pm 17 MeV, \hfill \\ \Gamma _{had} = 1742 \pm 19 MeV, \Gamma _t = 83.6 \pm 0.8 MeV. \hfill \\ \end{gathered}$$ If we do not assume lepton universality, we obtain for the partial decay widths of theZ 0 intoe + e − μ+ μ− and τ+ τ−: $$\begin{gathered} \Gamma _e = 83.3 \pm 1.1 MeV, \Gamma _\mu = 84.5 \pm 2.0 MeV, \hfill \\ \Gamma _\tau = 84.0 \pm 2.7 MeV. \hfill \\ \end{gathered}$$ From the measured ratio of the invisible and the leptonic decay widths of theZ 0, we determine the number of light neutrino species to beN v =3.05±0.10. We include our measurements of the forward-backward asymmetry for the leptonic channels in a fit to determine the vector and axial-vector neutral current coupling constants of charged leptons to theZ 0. We obtain $$\bar g_V = - 0.046_{ - 0.012}^{ + 0.015}$$ and $$\bar g_A = - 0.500 \pm 0.003$$ . In the framework of the Standard Model, we estimate the top quark mass to bem t =193 −69 +52 ±16 (Higgs) GeV, and we derive a value for the weak mixing angle of sin2θ W =1−(M W /M Z )2=0.222 ± 0.008, corresponding to an effective weak mixing angle of $$\sin ^2 \bar \theta _W = 0.2315 \pm 0.0025$$ .

We present a study of the global event shape variables thrust and heavy jet mass, of energy-energy correlations and of jet multiplicities based on 250 000 hadronic Z0 decays. The data are compared to new QCD calculations including resummation of leading and next-to-leading logarithms to all orders. We determine the strong coupling constant αs (91.2 GeV) = 0.125±0.003 (exp) ± 0.008 (theor). The first error is the experimental uncertainty. The second error is due to hadronization uncertainties and approximations in the calculations of the higher order corrections.

Neutralizing antibodies (NAbs) can occur in some multiple sclerosis (MS) patients receiving interferon β (IFNβ) therapy. NAbs reduce drug bioavailabity and high NAb titers reduce drug efficacy. We describe the validation of the R. Farrell and G. Giovannoni luciferase reporter gene assay to measure NAbs to INFβ. We assayed 163 sera from IFNβ treated MS patients with an optimized luciferase method and compared the results to those obtained with the reference cytopathic effect (CPE) method using A549 cells and an encephalomyocarditis virus (EMCV). Binding antibodies (BAbs) were measured using a capture ELISA as a screening test for NAbs in the CPE assay. NAb status measured by the luciferase and the ELISA/CPE method did not yield a significant difference. Log10 NAb titers obtained from the luciferase assay and the A549/EMCV CPE methods correlated very well. The inter-assay coefficient of variation for titers was between 17.8–29.3%, and the intra-assay coefficient of variation was between 6.3–15.2%. The luciferase assay is reliable, appropriately sensitive and requires less time than the currently available NAb methods.

Abstract The adhesive properties of a self-prepared bio-based epoxy resin with native cellulose nanocrystals (CNCs) are evaluated in this article. The porosity of actual CNCs is high. The most promising finding is the acquisition of high tensile modulus. The addition of CNC composites significantly increased the tensile modulus at lower wt.%, and the maximum crystallinity of CNCs was obtained. Bearing in mind the advantages of CNCs, scanning electron microscopy (SEM) showed a uniform distribution of concentrated CNCs. Clusters were formed at higher CNCs ratios, and the composite matrix content with high CNCs produced good expansion, low crystallinity, and increased elongation. Our analysis showed that the original CNCs were more evenly distributed in the self-prepared bio-based epoxy resin, which enhanced transformation, supported by improved dispersion of native CNCs. The presence of native CNCs greatly improved and enhanced the bonding performance of the bio-based epoxy resin in the interface area. Enhancing the mechanical properties of native CNCs has broad application prospects in environmental areas. This suggests that the widespread use of native CNCs in environmental engineering applications is feasible, especially in terms of adhesives properties.

Abstract From April to July 2018, a data sample at the peak energy of the <?CDATA $ \varUpsilon \left( {4{\rm{S}}} \right)$?> resonance was collected with the Belle II detector at the SuperKEKB electron-positron collider. This is the first data sample of the Belle II experiment. Using Bhabha and digamma events, we measure the integrated luminosity of the data sample to be ( <?CDATA $ 496.3 \pm 0.3 \pm 3.0)\;{\rm pb}^{-1}$?> , where the first uncertainty is statistical and the second is systematic. This work provides a basis for future luminosity measurements at Belle II.

The emergence of resistance to the major classes of antibacterial drug is recognized as serious health concern. So the development of new and more effective antimicrobial agents are necessary for human health. In this study a new series of azo based 1,3-indandion derivatives (4-MHPD, 2-BrHPD, 3-BrHPD 2-IHPD and 4-IHPD) was synthesized by reacting 1,3-indandion with various anilines (4- methyl aniline, 2-bromo aniline, 2-bromo aniline 2-isopropyl aniline and 4-isopropyl aniline) by diazotization, and metal complexes (Cu2+, Zn2+, Ni2+ and Mn2+) in mild, efficient, and convenient method with good yields in less time. All the newly synthesized compounds were characterized by IR, NMR (1H, &13C), UV/VIS and mass spectrometry. The appearance of -N=N- peak at 1400–1500 cm−1 with disappearance of NH2 peak at 3500 cm−1 in FTIR spectra and chemical shift at 11.00–13.00 ppm for -OH protons confirmed the synthesis of new azo derivatives. The appearance of C-OH sharp peak at 180–190 ppm and appearance of molecular ion peaks at 264 m/z, 329 m/z and 292 m/z and respectively further gives strong indication for the synthesis of proposed azo derivatives. Synthesized compounds were also screened for their antioxidant, antibacterial, antifungal, chymotrypsin and tyrosinase inhibition activities. Result have shown that among synthesized compounds, 2-IHPD, 2-BrHPD, 4-MHPD and their metal complexes with Cu2+ and Zn2+ have shown greater inhibitions against standard drugs. Furthermore structure activity and metal complexes versus ligands activity relationship were also explored in this study which revealed that presence of electron donating, halogen group and presence of transition metals enhanced the biological activities of tested compounds.

The copolymerization of ethylene‒diene conjugates (butadiene (BD), isoprene (IP) and nonconjugates (5-ethylidene-2-norbornene (ENB), vinyl norbornene VNB, 4-vinylcyclohexene (VCH) and 1, 4-hexadiene (HD)), and terpolymerization of ethylene-propylene-diene conjugates (BD, IP) and nonconjugates (ENB, VNB, VCH and HD) using two traditional catalysts of C2-symmetric metallocene—silylene-bridged rac-Me2Si(2-Me-4-Ph-Ind)2ZrCl2 (complex A) and ethylene-bridged rac-Et(Ind)2ZrCl2 (complex B)—with a [Ph3C][B(C6F5)4] borate/TIBA co-catalyst, were intensively studied. Compared to that in the copolymerization of ethylene diene, the catalytic activity was more significant in E/P/diene terpolymerization. We obtained a maximum yield of both metallocene catalysts with conjugated diene between 3.00 × 106 g/molMt·h and 5.00 × 106 g/molMt·h. ENB had the highest deactivation impact on complex A, and HD had the most substantial deactivation effect on complex B. A 1H NMR study suggests that dienes were incorporated into the co/ter polymers’ backbone through regioselectivity. ENB and VNB, inserted by the edo double bond, left the ethylidene double bond intact, so VCH had an exo double bond. Complex A’s methyl and phenyl groups rendered it structurally stable and exhibited a dihedral angle greater than that of complex B, resulting in 1, 2 isoprene insertion higher than 1, 4 isoprene that is usually incapable of polymerization coordination. High efficiency in terms of co- and ter- monomer incorporation with higher molecular weight was found for complex 1. The rate of incorporation of ethylene and propylene in the terpolymer backbone structure may also be altered by the conjugated and nonconjugated dienes. 13C-NMR, 1H-NMR, and GPC techniques were used to characterize the polymers obtained.