Descripción: We perform a dispersive theoretical study of the reaction γ γ → π0 π0 emphasizing the low energy region. The large source of theoretical uncertainty to calculate the γ γ → π0 π0 total cross section for sqrt(s) ≳ 0.5   GeV within the dispersive approach is removed. This is accomplished by taking one more subtraction in the dispersion relations, where the extra subtraction constant is fixed by considering new low energy constraints, one of them further refined by taking into consideration the f0 (980) region. This allows us to make sharper predictions for the cross section for sqrt(s) ≲ 0.8   GeV, below the onset of D-wave contributions. In this way, were new more precise data on γ γ → π0 π0 available one might then distinguish between different parameterizations of the ππ isoscalar S-wave. We also elaborate on the width of the σ resonance to γγ and provide new values. © 2007 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Descripción: A functional interaction between progesterone, Th2 cytokines and a suitable balance between nitric oxide and prostaglandins in the uterus is considered to have a major role in the success of embryo implantation and pregnancy. Non-obese diabetic (NOD) mice offer a suitable model to study the modulatory role of Th1 cytokines on uterus signalling and function, since at the prediabetic stage they develop a spontaneous Th1 autoimmune response against exocrine glands similar to Sjögren's syndrome. Vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP) is a vasoactive neuro- and immunopeptide that promotes Th2 profiles and contributes to the smooth muscle relaxation and vasodilation. The aim of the present study was to investigate the activities of nitric oxide synthase and cyclo-oxygenase and the effect of VIP in the uterus of NOD mice with an emerging Th1 cytokine response. We present evidence of a reduced basal and VIP-stimulated activity of both enzymes in the uterus of NOD mice compared with normal BALB/c mice in proestrus. An altered functional interaction between both enzymes is also present in NOD mice at the time when increased levels of serum interleukin (IL)-12 and tumour necrosis factor-α but not interferon (IFN)-γ or IL-10 were detected. We conclude that signalling alterations in uteri of NOD mice are simultaneous to the onset of a systemic Th1 cytokine response. © 2006 Society for Reproduction and Fertility.