dr Michał Silarski
email: michal.silarski@uj.edu.pl
Current position: assistant professor at Jagiellonian University, Poland
room: B-2-21
phone: (+48 12) 664 4831
USOS: go to profile 
Doctoral thesis
Search for the CP symmetry violation in the decays of Ks mesons using the KLOE detector
Supervisor: prof. Paweł Moskal
The aim of this work was to determine the KS ->3pi0 decay branching ratio and a modulus of the eta_000 parameter, defined as the ratio of amplitudes for KS ->3pi0 to KL -> 3pi0 decays, which characterizes the CP symmetry violation in this decay. The measurement has been carried out with the KLOE detector operating at the phi?factory DAFNE in the Italian National Center for Nuclear Physics in Frascati. DAFNE collides the e+ and e- beams at the center of mass energy s = 1019.45 MeV. The e+e? collisions result in the phi meson creation which is almost at rest and decay predominantly to kaon pairs. The decay products are registered using the KLOE detection setup, which consists of large cylindrical drift chamber surrounded by the electromagnetic calorimeter. The detectors are placed in a magnetic field of B = 0.52 T generated
by superconducting solenoid.
The KS mesons were identified with high efficiency via registration of these KL mesons which crossed the drift chamber without decaying and then interacted with the KLOE electromagnetic calorimeter . The KS four-momentum vector was then determined using the registered position of the KL meson and the known momentum of phi. Next, the search for the KS -> 3pi0 -> 6gamma decay was carried out by the selection of events with six gamma quanta which momenta were reconstructed using time and energy measured by the electromagnetic calorimeter. To increase the signal over background ratio after identification of the KS meson and requiring six reconstructed photons a discriminant analysis was performed. It was based on kinematical fit, testing of the signal and background hypotheses and exploiting of the differences in kinematics of the KS decays into 2pi0 and 3pi0. The search for the KS ->3pi0 decay presented in this work failed to detect a signal of sufficient statistical significance. Hence, we have obtained the upper limit on the KS -> 3pi0 branching ratio at the 90% confidence level: BR(KS -> 3pi0) < 2.7*10^{-8},which is almost five times lower than the latest published result. This upper limit can be translated into a limit on the modulus of the eta_000 parameter amounting to:|eta_000| < 0.009 at the 90% confidence level. This corresponds to an improvement of the |eta_000| uncertainty by a factor of two with respect to the latest direct measurement. The upper limit on the KS ->3pi0 branching ratio determined in this work is still about one order of magnitude larger than the prediction based on the Standard Model. Hence, the search for this decay will be continued with the upgraded KLOE detector, which has realistic chances to observe the KS ->3pi0 decay for the first time in the near future.
Diploma thesis
Analysis of the differential cross sections for the reaction pp --> ppK+K- in view of the K+K- interaction
Supervisor: prof. Paweł Moskal
Measurements of the pp-->ppK+K- reaction, performed with the experiment COSY-11 at the Cooler Synchrotron COSY, show a significant difference between the obtained excitation function and theoretical expectations including pp-FSI >. The discrepancy may be assigned to the influence of K+K- or K-p interaction. This interaction should manifest itself in the distributions of the differential cross section. This thesis presents an analysis of event distributions as a function of the invariant masses of two particle subsystems. In particular in the analysis two generalizations of the Dalitz plot proposed by Goldhaber and Nyborg are used. The present Investigations are based on the experimental data determined by the COSY-11 collaboration from two measurements at excess energies of Q = 10 MeV and 28 MeV. The experimental distributions are compared to results of Monte Carlo simulations generated with various parameters of the K+K- and K-p interaction. The values of the K+K- scattering length, extracted from two data sets for Q = 10 MeV and 28 MeV amount to: a_K+K- = (11 +- 8) + i(0 +- 6) fm for Q = 10 MeV, and a_K+K- = (0.2 +-0.2) + i(0.0 +- 0.5) fm for Q = 28 MeV, Due to the low statistics, the extracted values have large uncertainties and are consistent with very low values of the real and imaginary part of the scattering length.
Publications
ARTICLES CONFERENCE PROCEEDINGS POPULAR SCIENCE ARTICLES POSTERS PATENTS
- SIDDHARTA-2 apparatus for kaonic atoms research on the DAFNE colliderF. Sirghi, F. Sgaramella, L. Abbene, C. Amsler, M. Bazzi, G. Borghi, D. Bosnar, M. Bragadireanu, A. Buttacavoli, M. Carminati, M. Cargnelli, A. Clozza, G. Deda, L. De Paolis, R. Del Grande, K. Dulski, L. Fabbietti, C. Fiorini, I. Friščić, C. Guaraldo, M. Iliescu, M. Iwasaki, A. Khreptak, S. Manti, J. Marton, M. Miliucci, P. Moskal, F. Napolitano, S. Niedźwiecki, H. Ohnishi, K. Piscicchia, F. Principato, A. Scordo, D. Sirghi, M. Skurzok, M. Silarski, A. Spallone, K. Toho, L. Toscano, M. Tüchler, O. Vazquez Doce, C. Yoshida, J. Zmeskal, C. CurceanuSIDDHARTA-2 represents a state-of-the-art experiment designed to perform dedicated measurements of kaonic atoms, which are particular exotic atom configurations composed of a negatively charged kaon and a nucleus. Investigating these atoms provides an exceptional tool to comprehend the strong interactions in the non-perturbative regime involving strangeness. The experiment is installed at the DAFNE electron-positron collider, of the INFN National Laboratory of Frascati (INFN-LNF) in Italy, aiming to perform the first-ever measurement of the 2p->1s X-ray transitions in kaonic deuterium, a crucial step towards determining the isospin-dependent antikaon-nucleon scattering lengths. Based on the experience gained with the previous SIDDHARTA experiment, which performed the most precise measurement of the kaonic hydrogen 2p->1s X-ray transitions, the present apparatus has been upgraded with innovative Silicon Drift Detectors (SDDs), distributed around a cryogenic gaseous target placed in a vacuum chamber at a short distance above the interaction region of the collider. We present a comprehensive description of the SIDDHARTA-2 setup including the optimization of its various components during the commissioning phase of the collider.
- A feasibility study of the measurement of kaonic lead X-rays at DAFNE for the precise determination of the charged kaon massD. Bosnar, L. Abbene, C. Amsler, F. Artibani, M. Bazzi, A. Buttacavoli, M. Carminati, M. Cargnelli, A. Clozza, F. Clozza, G. Deda, L. De Paolis, R. Del Grande, K. Dulski, L. Fabbietti, C. Fiorini, I. Friščić, C. Guaraldo, M. Iliescu, M. Iwasaki, A. Khreptak, M. Makek S. Manti, J. Marton, P. Moskal, F. Napolitano, S. Niedźwiecki, H. Ohnishi, K. Piscicchia, A. Scordo, F. Sgaramella, D. Sirghi, F. Sirghi, M. Skurzok, M. Silarski, A. Spallone, K. Toho, M. Tüchler, O. Vazquez Doce, J. Zmeskal, C. CurceanuAn HPGe detector equipped with a transistor reset preamplifier and readout with a CAEN DT5781 fast pulse digitizer was employed in the measurement of X-rays from kaonic lead at the DAFNE e+e- collider at the Laboratori Nazionali di Frascati of INFN. A thin scintillator in front of a lead target was used to select kaons impinging on it and to form the trigger for the HPGe detector. We present the results of the kaonic lead feasibility measurement, where we show that the resolution of the HPGe detector in regular beam conditions remains the same as that without the beam and that a satisfactory background reduction can be achieved. This measurement serves as a test bed for future dedicated kaonic X-rays measurements for the more precise determination of the charged kaon mass.
- Positronium image of the human brain in vivoP. Moskal, J. Baran, S. Bass, J. Choiński, N. Chug, C. Curceanu, E. Czerwiński, M. Dadgar, M. Das, K. Dulski, K.V. Eliyan, K. Fronczewska, A. Gajos, K. Kacprzak, M. Kajetanowicz, T. Kaplanoglu, Ł. Kapłon, K. Klimaszewski, M. Kobylecka, G. Korcyl, T. Kozik, W. Krzemień, K. Kubat, D. Kumar, J. Kunikowska, J. Mączewska, W. Migdał, G. Moskal, W. Mryka, S. Niedźwiecki, S. Parzych, E. Perez del Rio, L. Raczyński, S. Sharma, Shivani, R.Y. Shopa, M. Silarski, M. Skurzok, F. Tayefi, K. Tayefi, P. Tanty, W. Wiślicki, L. Królicki, E. Ł. StępieńPositronium is abundantly produced within the molecular voids of a patient?s body during positron emission tomography (PET). Its properties dynamically respond to the submolecular architecture of the tissue and the partial pressure of oxygen. Current PET systems record only two annihilation photons and cannot provide information about the positronium lifetime. This study presents the in vivo images of positronium lifetime in a human, for a patient with a glioblastoma brain tumor, by using the dedicated Jagiellonian PET system enabling simultaneous detection of annihilation photons and prompt gamma emitted by a radionuclide. The prompt gamma provides information on the time of positronium formation. The photons from positronium annihilation are used to reconstruct the place and time of its decay. In the presented case study, the determined positron and positronium lifetimes in glioblastoma cells are shorter than those in salivary glands and those in healthy brain tissues, indicating that positronium imaging could be used to diagnose disease in vivo.
- Non-invasive detection of hazardous materials with a thermal-to-epithermal neutron station: a feasibility study towards practical applicationM. Silarski, K. Dziedzic-Kocurek, K. Drużbicki, R. Reterski, P. Grabowski, M. KrzystyniakThe growing scale of the devastation that even a single terrorist attack can cause requires more effective methods for the detection of hazardous materials. In particular, there are no solutions for effectively monitoring threats at sea, both for the off-shore infrastructure and ports. Currently, state-of-the-art detection methods determine the density distribution and the shapes of tested subjects but only allow for a limited degree of substance identification. This work aims to present a feasibility study of the possible usage of several methods available on the thermal-to-epithermal neutron station, VESUVIO, at the ISIS neutron and muon spallation source, UK, for the detection of hazardous materials. To this end, we present the results of a series of experiments performed concurrently employing neutron transmission and Compton scattering using melamine, a commonly used explosive surrogate, in order to determine its signal characteristics and limits of detection and quantitation. The experiments are supported by first-principles modelling, providing detailed scrutiny of the material structure and the nuclear dynamics behind the neutron scattering observables.
- The SIDDHARTA-2 experiment for high precision kaonic atoms X-ray spectroscopy at DAFNEF. Sgaramella, L. Abbene, C. Amsler, F. Artibani, M. Bazzi, D. Bosnar, M. Bragadireanu, A. Buttacavoli, M. Cargnelli, M. Carminati, A. Clozza, F. Clozza, G. Deda, R. Del Grande, L. De Paolis, K. Dulski, L. Fabbietti, C. Fiorini, I. Friščić, C. Guaraldo, M. Iliescu, M. Iwasaki, A. Khreptak, S. Manti, J. Marton, P. Moskal, F. Napolitano, S. Niedźwiecki, H. Ohnishi, K. Piscicchia, F. Principato, A. Scordo, M. Silarski, D. Sirghi, F. Sirghi, M. Skurzok, A. Spallone, K. Toho, M. Tüchler, O. Vazquez Doce, J. Zmeskal, C. CurceanuHigh precision X-ray spectroscopy of light kaonic atoms provides valuable information on kaon-nucleus interaction at threshold, allowing to investigate the strong interaction in the strangeness sector at the low-energy frontier. The SIDDHARTA-2 experiment at the DAFNE collider of INFN-LNF is performing the challenging measurement of the kaonic deuterium 2p->1 s transition which together with the kaonic hydrogen measurement performed by SIDDHARTA, will allow to extract the isospin-dependent antikaon-nucleon scattering lengths. To achieve this goal, the optimization of the setup to maximize the signal over background ratio is a crucial step. This paper presents the SIDDHARTA-2 experiment and its optimization through the first observation of kaonic neon transitions. The excellent electromagnetic background reduction factor (~10^4) paves the way not only to the measurement of kaonic deuterium, but also to a new era of selected kaonic atom measurements along the periodic table.
- Effect of temperature on gamma radiation shielding capabilities of bauxite-based refractory concreteDominika Madej, Palina Cherkes, Michał SilarskiThis work presents experimental and theoretical studies on gamma-ray shielding capabilities of bauxitecontaining refractory concretes containing new types of inorganic cements belonging to the CaO-Al2O3 (as a reference), CaO-BaO-Al2O3-ZrO2 and CaO-Al2O3-Fe2O3-ZrO2 systems. Firstly, the structure, microstructure, hydration behavior of cements, and thermal stability analysis of hydration products were investigated using X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy/energy-dispersive X-ray spectrometry (SEM-EDS) and Thermogravimetry-Differential Scanning Calorimetry (TG-DSC) coupled with Evolved gas analysis-mass spectrometry (EGA-MS). When both Fe2O3 and BaO occur in the form of hydraulic phases as Ca2AlFeO5 and BaAl2O4, respectively, or are structurally incorporated into Ca7ZrAl6O18, the iron and barium modify the nature of hydration products of the CaO-Al2O3-H2O-type. Secondly, three types of concretes containing refractory bauxite aggregates were developed and tested in terms of microstructure, phase content, volumetric density, and weight loss. The maximum weight loss at 110 ?C was associated mainly with the evaporation of the capillary water and the physically adsorbed water (gel water), whereas the chemically bound water (crystal water) occurring in hydrates was released at higher temperatures. Slight variations of the volumetric density of the concretes due to temperature were found. The CCS of the concretes fell within the standard values of ca. 50?100 MPa for shielding refractory concretes. Finally, the effect of temperature on the gamma radiation shielding capabilities of concretes was evaluated using the transmission method for gamma rays with energy in the range of about 81?1400 keV. The obtained values of the linear and mass attenuation coefficients showed improvement in the shielding properties as compared with ordinary concrete. Moreover, the obtained results show no significant effect of elevated temperature on the gamma radiation attenuation properties of the studied bauxite-based refractory concretes which suggests that they may be very useful as shielding materials in severe thermal working conditions.
- The Odyssey of kaonic atoms studies at the DAFNE collider: From DEAR to SIDDHARTA-2F. Artibani, F. Clozza, M. Bazzi, C. Capoccia, A. Clozza, L. De Paolis, K. Dulski, C. Guaraldo, M. Iliescu, A. Khreptak, S. Manti, F. Napolitano, O. Vazquez Doce, A. Scordo, F. Sgaramella, F. Sirghi, A. Spallone, M. Cargnelli, J. Marton, M. Tüchler, J. Zmeskal, L. Abbene, A. Buttacavoli, F. Principato, D. Bosnar, I. Friščić, M. Bragadireanu, G. Borghi, M. Carminati, G. Deda, C. Fiorini, R. Del Grande, M. Iwasaki, P. Moskal, S. Niedźwiecki, M. Silarski, M. Skurzok, H. Ohnishi, K. Toho, D. Sirghi, K. Piscicchia, C.O. CurceanuIn this paper, an overview of kaonic atoms studies from the late 90s to nowadays at the DAFNE collider at INFN-LNF is presented. Experiments on kaonic atoms are an important tool to test and optimize phenomenological models on the low-energy strong interaction. Since its construction, the DAFNE collider has represented an ideal machine to perform kaonic atoms measurements, thanks to the unique beam of kaons coming from the Phi_s produced in the collider decays. The DEAR and SIDDHARTA experiments achieved the precise evaluation of the shift and width of the 2p -> 1s transition in kaonic hydrogen due to the strong interaction, and thus provided a measurement strictly linked to isospin-dependent antikaon-nucleon scattering lengths. To fully disentangle the iso-scalar and iso-vector scattering lengths, the measurement of kaonic deuterium is necessary as well. The SIDDHARTA-2 experiment is now taking data at the DAFNE collider with the aim to fulfill the need of this measurement, and therefore provide important information to the various phenomenological models on low-energy strong interactions with strangeness. The SIDDHARTA-2 Collaboration is also exploring the possibility to perform future kaonic atoms experiments, developing X-ray detector systems beyond the current stateof-art. These measurements are crucial for a deeper understanding of the kaon interactions with nuclei and for solving the kaon mass ''puzzle''.
- First measurement of kaonic helium-4 M-series transitionsF. Sgaramella, D. Sirghi, L. Abbene, F. Artibani, M. Bazzi, D. Bosnar, M. Bragadireanu, A. Buttacavoli, M. Cargnelli, M. Carminati, A. Clozza, F. Clozza, G. Deda, R. Del Grande, L. De Paolis, K. Dulski, L. Fabbietti, C. Fiorini, I. Friscic, C. Guaraldo, M. Iliescu, M. Iwasaki, A. Khreptak, S. Manti, J. Marton, M. Miliucci, P. Moskal, F. Napolitano, S. Niedzwiecki, H. Ohnishi, K. Piscicchia, F. Principato, A. Scordo, M. Silarski, F. Sirghi, M. Skurzok, A. Spallone, K. Toho, M. Tuchler, O. Vazquez Doce, C. Yoshida, J. Zmeskal, C. CurceanuIn this paper we present the results of a new kaonic helium-4 measurement with a 1.37 g/l gaseous target by the SIDDHARTA-2 experiment at the DAFNE collider. We measured, for the first time, the energies and yields of three transitions belonging to the Mseries. Moreover, we improved by a factor about three, the statistical precision of the 2p level energy shift and width induced by the strong interaction, obtaining the most precise measurement for gaseous kaonic helium, and measured the yield of the L_alpha transition at the employed density, providing a new experimental input to investigate the density dependence of kaonic atoms transitions yield.
- CdZnTe detectors tested at the DAFNE collider for future kaonic atoms measurementsA. Scordo, L. Abbene, F. Artibani, M. Bazzi, M. Bettelli, D. Bosnar, G. Borghi, M. Bragadireanu, A. Buttacavoli, M. Cargnelli, M. Carminati, A. Clozza, F. Clozza, L. De Paolis, G. Deda, R. Del Grande, L. Fabbietti, C. Fiorini, I. Friščić, C. Guaraldo, M. Iliescu, M. Iwasaki, A. Khreptak, S. Manti, J. Marton, P. Moskal, F. Napolitano, S. Niedźwiecki, H. Ohnishi, K. Piscicchia, F. Principato, Y. Sada, F. Sgaramella, H. Shi, M. Silarski, D. L. Sirghi, F. Sirghi, M. Skurzok, A. Spallone, K. Toho, M. Tüchler, C. Yoshida, A. Zappettini, J. Zmeskal, C. Curceanu
abstractHEP: arXiv:2310.15062The SIDDHARTA-2 collaboration at the INFN Laboratories of Frascati (LNF) aims to perform groundbreaking measurements on kaonic atoms. In parallel and beyond the ongoing kaonic deuterium, presently running on the DAFNE collider at LNF, we plan to install additional detectors to perform further kaonic atoms' studies, taking advantage of the unique low energy and low momentum spread K- beam delivered by the at-rest decay of the phi meson. CdZnTe devices are ideal for detecting transitions toward both the upper and lower levels of intermediate-mass kaonic atoms, like kaonic carbon and aluminium, which have an important impact on the strangeness sector of nuclear physics. We present the results obtained in a set of preliminary tests conducted on DAFNE, in view of measurements foreseen in 2024, with the twofold aim to tune the timing window required to reject the extremely high electromagnetic background, and to quantify the readout electronics saturation effect due to the high rate, when placed close to the Interaction Region (IR). In the first test we used commercial devices and electronics, while for the second one both were customized at the IMEM-CNR of Parma and the University of Palermo. The results confirmed the possibility of finding and matching a proper timing window where to identify the signal events and proved better performances, in terms of energy resolution, of the custom system. In both cases, strong saturation effects were confirmed, accounting for a loss of almost 90% of the events, which will be overcome by a dedicated shielding structure foreseen for the final experimental setup. - Feasibility of the J-PET to monitor range oftherapeutic proton beamsJ. Baran, D. Borys, K. Brzeziński, J. Gajewski, M. Silarski, N. Chug, A. Coussat, E. Czerwiński, M. Dadgar, K. Dulski, K.V. Eliyan, A. Gajos, K. Kacprzak, Ł. Kapłon, K. Klimaszewski, P. Konieczka, R. Kopeć, G. Korcyl, T. Kozik, W. Krzemień, D. Kumar, A.J. Lomax, K. McNamara, S. Niedźwiecki, P. Olko, D. Panek, S. Parzych, E. Perez del Rio, L. Raczyński, M. Simbarashe, S. Sharma, Shivani, R.Y. Shopa, T. Skóra, M. Skurzok, P. Stasica, E.Ł. Stępień, K. Tayefi, F. Tayefi, D.C. Weber, C. Winterhalter, W. Wiślicki, P. Moskal, A. RucińskiObjective: The aim of this work is to investigate the feasibility of the JagiellonianPositron Emission Tomography (J-PET) scanner for intra-treatment proton beamrange monitoring. Approach: The Monte Carlo simulation studies with GATE and PET imagereconstruction with CASToR were performed in order to compare six J-PET scannergeometries (three dual-heads and three cylindrical). We simulated proton irradiationof a PMMA phantom with a Single Pencil Beam (SPB) and Spread-Out BraggPeak (SOBP) of various ranges. The sensitivity and precision of each scanner werecalculated, and considering the setup?s cost-effectiveness, we indicated potentiallyoptimal geometries for the J-PET scanner prototype dedicated to the proton beamrange assessment. Main results: The investigations indicate that the double-layer cylindrical andtriple-layer double-head configurations are the most promising for clinical application.We found that the scanner sensitivity is of the order of 10?5coincidences per primaryproton, while the precision of the range assessment for both SPB and SOBP irradiationplans was found below 1 mm. Among the scanners with the same number of detectormodules, the best results are found for the triple-layer dual-head geometry. Significance: We performed simulation studies demonstrating that the feasibilityof the J-PET detector for PET-based proton beam therapy range monitoring ispossible with reasonable sensitivity and precision enabling its pre-clinical tests in theclinical proton therapy environment. Considering the sensitivity, precision and cost-effectiveness, the double-layer cylindrical and triple-layer dual-head J-PET geometryconfigurations seem promising for the future clinical application. Experimental testsare needed to confirm these findings.
- Characterization of the SIDDHARTA-2 Setup via the Kaonic Helium MeasurementF. Sgaramella, A. Clozza, L. Abbene, F. Artibani, M. Bazzi, G. Borghi, M. Bragadireanu, A. Buttacavoli, M. Cargnelli, M. Carminati, G. Deda, R. Del Grande, L. De Paolis, K. Dulski, C. Fiorini, C. Guaraldo, M. Iliescu, M. Iwasaki, A. Khreptak, S. Manti, J. Marton, M. Miliucci, P. Moskal, F. Napolitano, S. Niedzwiecki, H. Ohnishi, K. Piscicchia, F. Principato, A. Scordo, M. Silarski, D. Sirghi, F. Sirghi, M. Skurzok, A. Spallone, K. Toho, M. Tuchler, J. Zmeskal, C. CurceanuThe aim of the SIDDHARTA-2 experiment is to perform the first measurement ever of the width and shift induced by the strong interaction to the 2????->1???? energy transition of kaonic deuterium. This ambitious goal implies a challenging task due to the very low X-ray yield of kaonic deuterium, which is why an accurate and thorough characterization of the experimental apparatus is mandatory before starting the data-taking campaign. Helium-4 is an excellent candidate for this characterization since it exhibits a high yield in particular for the 3????->2???? transition, roughly 100 times greater than that of the kaonic deuterium. The ultimate goal of the work reported in this paper is to study the performances of the full experimental setup in view of the kaonic deuterium measurement. This is carried out by measuring the values of the shift and the width for the 3?????2???? energy transition of kaonic helium-4, induced by the strong interaction. The values obtained for these quantities, for a total integrated luminosity of ~31/pb, are epsilon_2????=2.0+-1.2(stat)+-1.5(syst)eV and Gamma_2????=1.9+-5.7(stat)+-0.7(syst)eV. The results, compared to the value of the shift measured by the SIDDHARTA experiment epsilon_2????=0+-6(stat)+-2(syst)eV, show a net enhancement of the resolution of the apparatus, providing strong evidence of the potential to perform the challenging measurement of the kaonic deuterium.
- First positronium image of the human brain in vivoP. Moskal, J. Baran, S. Bass, J. Choiński, N. Chug, C. Curceanu, E. Czerwiński, M. Dadgar, M. Das, K. Dulski, K.V. Eliyan, K. Fronczewska, A. Gajos, K. Kacprzak, M. Kajetanowicz, T. Kaplanoglu, Ł. Kapłon, K. Klimaszewski, M. Kobylecka, G. Korcyl, T. Kozik, W. Krzemień, K. Kubat, D. Kumar, J. Kunikowska, J. Mączewska, W. Migdał, G. Moskal, W. Mryka, S. Niedźwiecki, S. Parzych, E. Perez del Rio, L. Raczyński, S. Sharma, Shivani, R.Y. Shopa, M. Silarski, M. Skurzok, F. Tayefi, K. Tayefi, P. Tanty, W. Wiślicki, L. Królicki, E. Ł. StępieńPositronium, an unstable atom consisting of an electron and a positron, is abundantly produced within the molecular voids of a patient?s body during positron emission tomography (PET) diagnosis. Its properties, such as its average lifetime between formation and annihilation into photons, dynamically respond to the submolecular architecture of the tissue and the partial pressure of oxygen molecules. However, the diagnostic information that positronium may deliver about early molecular alterations remains unavailable in clinics with state-of-the-art PET scanners. This study presents the first in vivo images of positronium lifetime in humans. We developed a dedicated J-PET system with multiphoton detection capability for imaging. The measurements of positronium lifetime were performed on a patient with a glioblastoma tumor in the brain. The patient was injected intratumorally with the 68Ga radionuclide attached to Substance-P, which accumulates in glioma cells, and intravenously with 68Ga attached to the PSMA-11 ligand, which is selective to glioma cells and salivary glands. The 68Ga radionuclide is routinely used in PET for detecting radiopharmaceutical accumulation and was applied for positronium imaging because it can emit an additional prompt gamma. The prompt gamma enables the determination of the time of positronium formation, while the photons from positronium annihilation were used to reconstruct the place and time of its decay. The determined positronium mean lifetime in glioblastoma cells is shorter than in salivary glands, which in turn is shorter than in healthy brain tissues, demonstrating for the first time that positronium imaging can be used to diagnose disease in vivo. This study also demonstrates that if current total-body PET systems were equipped with multiphoton detection capability and the 44Sc radionuclide was applied, it would be possible to perform positronium imaging at 6500 times greater sensitivity than achieved in this research. Therefore, it is anticipated that positronium imaging has the potential to bring a new quality of cancer diagnosis in clinics.
- Discrete symmetries tested at 10^-4 precision using linear polarization of photons from positronium annihilationsP. Moskal, E. Czerwiński, J. Raj, S. D. Bass, E. Beyene, N. Chug, A. Coussat, C. Curceanu, M. Dadgar, M. Das, K. Dulski, A. Gajos, M. Gorgol, B. C. Hiesmayr, B. Jasińska, K. Kacprzak, T. Kaplanoglu, Ł. Kapłon, K. Klimaszewski, P. Konieczka, G. Korcyl, T. Kozik, W. Krzemień, D. Kumar, S. Moyo, W. Mryka, S. Niedźwiecki, S. Parzych, E. Pérez del Río, L. Raczyński, S. Sharma, S. Choudhary, R. Y. Shopa, M. Silarski, M. Skurzok, E. Ł. Stępień, P. Tanty, F. T. Ardebili, K. T. Ardebili, K. V. Eliyan, W. WiślickiDiscrete symmetries play an important role in particle physics with violation of CP connected to the matter-antimatter imbalance in the Universe. We report the most precise test of P, T and CP invariance in decays of ortho-positronium, performed with methodology involving polarization of photons from these decays. Positronium, the simplest bound state of an electron and positron, is of recent interest with discrepancies reported between measured hyperfine energy structure and theory at the level of 10^-4 signaling a need for better understanding of the positronium system at this level. We test discrete symmetries using photon polarizations determined via Compton scattering in the dedicated J-PET tomograph on an event-by-event basis and without the need to control the spin of the positronium with an external magnetic field, in contrast to previous experiments. Our result is consistent with QED expectations at the level of 0.0007 and one standard deviation.
- The SIDDHARTA-2 Veto-2 system for X-ray spectroscopy of kaonic atoms at DAFNEM. Tüchler, C. Amsler, M. Bazzi, D. Bosnar, M. Bragadireanu, M. Cargnelli, M. Carminati, A. Clozza, G. Deda, R. Del Grande, L. De Paolis, K. Dulski, L. Fabbietti, C. Fiorini, I. Friščić, C. Guaraldo, M. Iliescu, M. Iwasaki, A. Khreptak, S. Manti, J. Marton1, M. Miliucci, P. Moskal, F. Napolitano, S. Niedźwiecki, H. Ohnishi, K. Piscicchia, Y. Sada, A. Scordo, F. Sgaramella, H. Shi, M. Silarski, D. Sirghi, F. Sirghi, M. Skurzok, A. Spallone, K. Toho, O. Vazquez Doce, E. Widmann, C. Yoshida, J. Zmeskal and C. CurceanuThe Veto-2 is a fundamental component of a multiple-stage veto system for the SIDDHARTA-2 experiment installed at the DAFNE collider at INFN-LNF in Italy. It was developed to improve the signal-to-background ratio for the challenging measurement of X-ray transitions to the fundamental level in kaonic deuterium. Its purpose is the suppression of hadronic background in the form of Minimum Ionizing Particles by using the topological correlation between signals in the X-ray and Veto-2 detectors. The Veto-2 system consists of a barrel of plastic scintillators read out by Silicon Photomultipliers. The system performed its first successful test run within the apparatus with a helium-4 target in 2022. The efficiency of the Veto-2 was determined and found to be 0.62 +- 0.01. The Veto-2 improved the signal-to-background ratio for the kaonic helium-4 L_alpha measurement by about 16%, which is crucial due to the low expected X-ray yield of kaonic deuterium.
- First Simultaneous K-p -> Sigma0 pi0, Lambda0 pi0 Cross Sections Measurements at 98 MeV/cK. Piscicchia, M. Skurzok, M. Cargnelli, R. Del Grande, L. Fabbietti, J. Marton, P. Moskal, A. Scordo, A. Ramos, D. L. Sirghi, O. Vazquez Doce, J. Zmeskal, S. Wycech, P. Branchini, F. Ceradini, E. Czerwinski, E. De Lucia, S. Fiore, A. Kupsc, G. Mandaglio, M. Martini, A. Passeri, V. Patera, E. Perez Del Rio, A. Selce, M. Silarski and C. CurceanuWe report the first simultaneous and independent measurements of the K-p -> Sigma0 pi0 and K-p -> Lambda0 pi0 cross sections around 100 MeV/c kaon momentum. The kaon beam delivered by the DAFNE collider was exploited to detect K- absorptions on Hydrogen atoms, populating the gas mixture of the KLOE drift chamber. The precision of the measurements sigma_{K-p -> Sigma0 pi0} =42.8 +-1.5(stat:)+2.4-2.0(syst:) mb and sigma_{K-p -> Lambda0 pi0}= 31.0 +- 0.5(stat:)+1.2-1.2(syst:) mb is the highest yet obtained in the low kaon momentum regime.
- Comparison of cell casted and 3D-printed plastic scintillators for dosimetry applicationsD. Kulig, Ł. Kapłon, G. Moskal, S. Beddar, T. Fiutowski, W. Górska, J. Hajduga, P. Jurgielewicz, D. Kabat, K. Kalecińska, M. Kopeć, S. Koperny, B. Mindur, J. Moroń, S. Niedźwiecki, M. Silarski, F. Sobczuk, T. Szumlak, A. RucińskiCurrently, the most used methods of plastic scintillator (PS) manufacturing are cell casting and bulk polymerisation, extrusion, injection molding, whereas digital light processing (DLP) 3D printing technique has been recently introduced. For our research, we measured blue-emitting EJ-200, EJ-208, green-emitting EJ-260, EJ-262 cell cast and two types of blue-emitting DLP-printed PSs. The light output of the samples, with the same dimension of 10 mm × 10 mm × 10 mm, was compared. The light output of the samples, relative to the reference EJ-200 cell-cast scintillator, equals about 40?49 and 70?73% for two types of 3D-printed, and two green-emitting cell-casted PSs, respectively. Performance of the investigated scintillators is sufficient to use them in a plastic scintillation dosemeter operating in high fluence gamma radiation fields.
- A new detector concept based on the prompt gamma radiation analysis for In vivo boron monitoring in BNCTM. Silarski, K. Dziedzic-Kocurek, F. Sobczuk, A. Nykiel, P. Moskal, S. Niedźwiecki, E.Ł. Stępień, M. SzczepanekThe problem of boron concentration monitoring during the boron neutron capture therapy (BNCT) therapy is one of the main challenges of this type of radiotherapy and is directly related to the nature of the interaction of neutrons with mater. Among the available in vivo methods of boron monitoring positron emission tomography seems to be very promising but it requires a new boron carrier with a ?+ emitter, which is not yet clinically available. An alternative solution may be the prompt gamma radiation analysis (PGRA) based on the secondary radiation emitted in the interaction of neutrons with the patient's tissues. This method requires, however, compact gamma radiation detection systems sustaining high counting rates and characterized by very good energy resolution. In this contribution, we present state-of-the-art solutions for monitoring in BNCT based on PGRA. Moreover, we describe a new concept of such a system based on position-sensitive scintillator detectors equipped with an anti-Compton shield and data analysis supported with modern artificial intelligence algorithms.
- Kaonic atoms at the DAFNE collider: a strangeness adventureC. Curceanu, L. Abbene, C. Amsler, M. Bazzi, M. Bettelli, G. Borghi, D. Bosnar, M. Bragadireanu, A. Buttacavoli, M. Cargnelli, M. Carminati, A. Clozza, G. Deda, R. Del Grande, L. De Paolis, K. Dulski, C. Fiorini, I. Friscic, C. Guaraldo, M. Iliescu, M. Iwasaki, A. Khreptak, S. Manti, J. Marton, M. Miliucci, P. Moskal, F. Napolitano, S. Niedzwiecki, H. Ohnishi, K. Piscicchia, F. Principato, Y. Sada, A. Scordo, F. Sgaramella, H. Shi, M. Silarski, D. L. Sirghi, F. Sirghi, M. Skurzok, A. Spallone, K. Toho, M. Tuchler, O. Vazquez Doce, C. Yoshida, A. Zappettini, J. ZmeskalKaonic atoms are an extremely efficient tool to investigate the strong interaction at the low energy Frontier, since they provide direct access to the K?N interaction at threshold, eliminating the necessity for extrapolation, unlike in the case of scattering experiments. During the 1970s and 1980s, extensive studies were performed on kaonic atoms spanning across a broad spectrum of elements in the periodic table, ranging from lithium to uranium. These measurements provided inputs and constraints for the theoretical description of the antikaon-nuclei interaction potential. Nevertheless, the existing data suffer from significant experimental uncertainties, and numerous measurements have been found to be inconsistent with more recent measurements that utilize advanced detector technology. Furthermore, there remain numerous transitions of kaonic atoms that have yet to be measured. For these reasons, a new era of kaonic atoms studies is mandatory. The DA?NE electron-positron collider at the INFN Laboratory of Frascati (INFN-LNF) stands out as a unique source of low-energy kaons, having been utilized by Collaborations such as DEAR, SIDDHARTA, and AMADEUS for groundbreaking measurements of kaonic atoms and kaon-nuclei interactions. Presently, the SIDDHARTA-2 experiment is installed at DA?NE, aiming to perform the first-ever measurement of the 2p ? 1s x-ray transition in kaonic deuterium, a crucial step towards determining the isospin-dependent antikaon-nucleon scattering lengths. Based on the experience gained with the SIDDHARTA experiment, which performed the most precise measurement of the kaonic hydrogen 2p ? 1s x-ray transition, the SIDDHARTA-2 setup is now fully equipped for the challenging kaonic deuterium measurement. In this paper, we present a comprehensive description of the SIDDHARTA-2 setup and of the first kaonic atoms measurements performed during the commissioning phase of the DA?NE collider. We also outline a proposal for future measurements of kaonic atoms at DA?NE beyond SIDDHARTA-2, which is intended to stimulate discussions within the broad scientific community performing research, directly or indirectly, related to this field.
- Direct tests of T, CP, CPT symmetries in transitions of neutral K mesons with the KLOE experimentD. Babusci, M. Berłowski, C. Bloise, F. Bossi, P. Branchini, B. Cao, F. Ceradini, P. Ciambrone, F. Curciarello, E. Czerwiński, G. D'Agostini, R. D'Amico, E. Dane, V. De Leo, E. De Lucia, A. De Santis, P. De Simone, A. Di Domenico, E. Diociaiuti, D. Domenici, A. D'Uffizi, G. Fantini, A. Gajos, S. Gamrat, P. Gauzzi, S. Giovannella, E. Graziani, X. Kang, A. Kupść, G. Mandaglio, M. Martini, S. Miscetti, P. Moskal, A. Passeri, E. Pérez del Río, M. Schioppa, A. Selce, M. Silarski, F. Sirghi, E.P. Solodov, W. Wiślicki, M. Wolke, J. BernabéuTests of the T, CPand CPTsymmetries in the neutral kaon system are performed by the direct comparison of the probabilities of a kaon transition process to its symmetry-conjugate. The exchange of inand outstates required for a genuine test involving an antiunitary transformation implied by time-reversal is implemented exploiting the entanglement of K0K0 pairs produced at a ?-factory. A data sample collected by the KLOE experiment at DAFNE corresponding to an integrated luminosity of about 1.7 fb?1 is analysed to study the Dt distributions of the ??KSKL??+????e??and ??KSKL???e??3?0 processes, with Dt the difference of the kaon decay times. A comparison of the measured Dt distributions in the asymptotic region Dt>>t? Sallows to test for the first time T and CPT symmetries in kaon transitions with a precision of few percent, and to observe CP violation with this novel method.
- Potentialities of CdZnTe Quasi-Hemispherical Detectors for Hard X-ray Spectroscopy of Kaonic Atoms at the DAFNE ColliderL. Abbene, A. Buttacavoli, F. Principato, G. Gerardi, M. Bettelli, A. Zappettini, M. Bazzi, M. Bragadireanu, M. Cargnelli, M. Carminati, A. Clozza, G. Deda, R. Del Grande, L. De Paolis, L. Fabbietti, C. Fiorini, C. Guaraldo, M. Iliescu, M. Iwasaki, A. Khreptak, S. Manti, J. Marton, M. Miliucci, P. Moskal, F. Napolitano, S. Niedzwiecki, H. Ohnishi, K. Piscicchia, Y. Sada, F. Sgaramella, H. Shi, M. Silarski, D. L. Sirghi, F. Sirghi, M. Skurzok, A. Spallone, K. Toho, M. Tuchler, O. Vazquez Doce, C. Yoshida, J. Zmeskal, A. Scordo, C. CurceanuKaonic atom X-ray spectroscopy is a consolidated technique for investigations on the physics of strong kaon?nucleus/nucleon interaction. Several experiments have been conducted regarding the measurement of soft X-ray emission (<20 keV) from light kaonic atoms (hydrogen, deuterium, and helium). Currently, there have been new research activities within the framework of the SIDDHARTA-2 experiment and EXCALIBUR proposal focusing on performing precise and accurate measurements of hard X-rays (>20 keV) from intermediate kaonic atoms (carbon, aluminum, and sulfur). In this context, we investigated cadmium?zinc?telluride (CdZnTe or CZT) detectors, which have recently demonstrated high-resolution capabilities for hard X-ray and gamma-ray detection. A demonstrator prototype based on a new cadmium?zinc?telluride quasi-hemispherical detector and custom digital pulse processing electronics was developed. The detector covered a detection area of 1 cm2 with a single readout channel and interesting room-temperature performance with energy resolution of 4.4% (2.6 keV), 3% (3.7 keV), and 1.4% (9.3 keV) FWHM at 59.5, 122.1, and 662 keV, respectively. The results from X-ray measurements at the DAFNE collider at the INFN National Laboratories of Frascati (Italy) are also presented with particular attention to the effects and rejection of electromagnetic and hadronic background.
- Monte Carlo simulations of the underwater detection of illicit war remnants with neutron-based sensorsM. Silarski, P. Sibczyński, O. Bezshyyko, Ł. Kapłon, V. Kumar, S. Niedźwiecki, M. Nowakowski, P. Moskal, S. Sharma, F. SobczukIn recent years, the demand for accurate detection and identification of hazardous substances in an aquatic environment, especially in the Baltic Sea, has seen a significant rise, with a specific focus on unexploded ordnance (UXO) containing conventional explosives and various chemical agents, including, but not limited to, mustard gas, Clark I and II and other lethal compounds. These substances pose a significant threat to human health and the environment, and their identification is crucial for effective demining and environmental protection efforts. In this article, a novel approach for fast, remote, and non-destructive recognition of dangerous substances based on a SABAT sensor installed on an ROV is described. The performance of the proposed neutron-based sensor in an aquatic environment was verified based on a series of Monte Carlo simulations for mustard gas, Clark I and II, and TNT, as they are the most common chemical threats at the bottom of the Baltic Sea. The sensor?s ability to accurately discriminate hazardous and non-hazardous materials is described in the paper in terms of the ratio of chlorine to hydrogen (Cl/H), carbon to oxygen (C/O), and nitrogen to hydrogen (N/H) activation lines integrals. The authors also discussed the future directions of work to validate SABAT (Stoichiometry Analysis By Activation Techniques) sensors in the operational environment.
- A review of the low-energy K--nucleus/nuclei interactions with light nuclei AMADEUS investigationsM. Skurzok, M. Cargnelli, R. Del Grande, L. Fabbietti, C. Guaraldo, J. Marton, P. Moskal, K. Piscicchia, A. Scordo, M. Silarski, D. L. Sirghi, O. Vazquez Doce, J. Zmeskal, S. Wycech, P. Branchini, E. Czerwinski, X. Kang, G. Mandaglio, M. Martini, A. Selce and C. CurceanuThe AMADEUS Collaboration conducts research aimed to experimentally investigate the low-energy K- hadronic interactions with light nuclei like hydrogen, helium, and carbon, in order to provide new constraints to the antikaon-nucleon strong interaction studies in the non-perturbative quantum chromodynamics regime. K- nuclear absorption, both at-rest and in-flight, are explored using the unique low-momentum and monochromatic kaon beam from the DAFNE collider interacting with the KLOE detector components, a detector characterized by high acceptance and excellent position and momentum resolutions. This paper presents an overview of the AMADEUS results.
- The KAMEO proposal: Investigation of the E2 nuclear resonance effects in kaonic atomsL. De Paolis on behalf of M. Bazzi, D. Bosnar, M. Bragadireanu, M. Cargnelli, M. Carminati, A. Clozza, G. Deda, R. Del Grande, K. Dulski, C. Fiorini, I. Frišči`c, C. Guaraldo, M. Iliescu, M. Iwasaki, A. Khreptak, S. Manti, J. Marton, M. Miliucci, P. Moskal, F. Napolitano, S. Nied`zwiecki, O. Ohnishi, K. Piscicchia, Y. Sada, A. Scordo, F. Sgaramella, H. Shi, M. Silarski, D. L. Sirghi, F. Sirghi, M. Skurzok, S. Wycech, A. Spallone, K. Toho, M. Tüchler, C. Yoshida, J. Zmeskal, C. CurceanuThe E2 nuclear resonance effect is a phenomenon that occurs whenthe energy of an atomic de-excitation state closely matches that of a nuclear excita-tion state, resulting in the attenuation of certain atomic X-ray lines in the resonantisotope target. The study of this effect in kaonic atoms can provide important insightinto the mechanisms of the strong kaon-nucleus interaction. In 1975, Goldfrey, Lum,and Wiegand at Lawrence Berkeley Laboratory observed the effect in9842Mo, but theydid not have enough data to reach a conclusive result. The E2 nuclear resonanceeffect is expected to occur in four kaonic molybdenum isotopes (9442Mo,9642Mo,9842Mo,and10042Mo) with similar energy values. The KAMEO (Kaonic Atoms MeasuringNuclear Resonance Effects Observables) proposal plans to study this effect in theseisotopes at the DA?NE ? factory during the SIDDHARTA-2 experiment. KAMEOwill use four solid strip targets, each enriched with a different molybdenum isotope,and expose them to negatively charged kaons produced by ? meson decays. TheX-ray transition measurements will be performed using a high-purity germaniumdetector, and an additional solid strip target of non-resonant9242Mo isotope will beexposed and used as a reference for standard non-resonant transitions.
- New opportunities for kaonic atoms measurements from CdZnTe detectorsL. Abbene, M. Bettelli, A. Buttacavoli, F. Principato, A. Zappettini, C. Amsler, M. Bazzi, D. Bosnar, M. Bragadireanu, M. Cargnelli, M. Carminati, A. Clozza, G. Deda, L. De Paolis, R. Del Grande, L. Fabbietti, C. Fiorini, I. Friscic, C. Guaraldo, M. Iliescu, M. Iwasaki, A. Khreptak, S. Manti, J. Marton, M. Miliucci, P. Moskal, F. Napolitano, S. Niedźwiecki, H. Ohnishi, K. Piscicchia, Y. Sada, F. Sgaramella, H. Shi, M. Silarski, D. L. Sirghi, F. Sirghi, M. Skurzok, A. Spallone, K. Toho, M. Tuchler, O. Vazquez Doce, C. Yoshida, J. Zmeskal, A. Scordo and C. CurceanuWe present the tests performed by the SIDDHARTA-2 collaboration at the DAFNE collider with a quasi-hemispherical CdZnTe detector. The very good room-temperature energy resolution and efficiency in a wide energy range show that this detector technology is ideal for studying radiative transitions in intermediate and heavy mass kaonic atoms. The CdZnTe detector was installed for the first time in an accelerator environment to perform tests on the background rejection capabilities, which were achieved by exploiting the SIDDHARTA-2 Luminosity Monitor. A spectrum with an 241Am source has been acquired, with beams circulating in the main rings, and peak resolutions of 6% at 60 keV and of 2.2% at 511 keV have been achieved. The background suppression factor, which turned out to be of the order of ~10^5?6, opens the possibility to plan for future kaonic atom measurements with CdZnTe detectors.
- Comparative studies of plastic scintillator strips with high technical attenuation length for the total-body J-PET scannerŁ. Kapłon, J. Baran, N. Chug, A. Coussat, C. Curceanu, E. Czerwiński, M. Dadgar, K. Dulski, J. Gajewski, A. Gajos, B. Hiesmayr, E. Kavya Valsan, K. Klimaszewski, G. Korcyl, T. Kozik, W. Krzemień, D. Kumar, G. Moskal, S. Niedźwiecki, D. Panek, S. Parzych, E. Pérez del Rio, L. Raczyński, A. Ruciński, S. Sharma, S. Shivani, R. Shopa, M. Silarski, M. Skurzok, E. Stępień, F. Tayefi Ardebili, K. Tayefi Ardebili, W. Wiślicki, P. MoskalPlastic scintillator strips are considered as one of the promising solutions for the cost-effective construction of total-body positron emission tomography, (PET) system. The purpose of the performed measurements is to compare the transparency of long plastic scintillators with dimensions 6 mm x 24 mm x 1000 mm and with all surfaces polished. Six different types of commercial, general purpose, blue-emitting plastic scintillators with low attenuation of visible light were tested, namely: polyvinyl toluene-based BC-408, EJ-200, RP-408, and polystyrene-based Epic, SP32 and UPS-923A. For determination of the best type of plastic scintillator for total-body Jagiellonian positron emission tomograph (TB-J-PET) construction, emission and transmission spectra, and technical attenuation length (TAL) of blue light-emitting by the scintillators were measured and compared. The TAL values were determined with the use of UV lamp as excitation source, and photodiode as light detector. Emission spectra of investigated scintillators have maxima in the range from 420 nm to 429 nm. The BC-408 and EJ-200 have the highest transmittance values of about 90% at the maximum emission wavelength measured through a 6 mm thick scintillator strip and the highest technical attenuation length reaching about 2000 mm, allowing assembly of long detection modules for time-of-flight (TOF) J-PET scanners. Influence of the 6 mm × 6 mm, 12 mm × 6 mm, 24 mm × 6 mm cross-sections of the 1000 mm long EJ-200 plastic scintillator on the TAL and signal intensity was measured. The highest TAL value was determined for samples with 24 mm × 6 mm cross-section.
- Measurements of high-n transitions in intermediate mass kaonic atoms by SIDDHARTA-2 at DAFNEF. Sgaramella, M. Tuchler, C. Amsler, M. Bazzi, D. Bosnar, A. M. Bragadireanu, M. Cargnelli, M. Carminati, A. Clozza, G. Deda, L. De Paolis, R. Del Grande, L. Fabbietti, C. Fiorini, I. Friscic, C. Guaraldo, M. Iliescu, M. Iwasaki, A. Khreptak, S. Manti, J. Marton, M. Miliucci, P. Moskal, F. Napolitano, S. Niedźwiecki, H. Onishi, K. Piscicchia, Y. Sada, A. Scordo, M. Silarski, D. Sirghi, F. Sirghi, M. Skurzok, A. Spallone, K. Toho, O. Vazquez Doce, J. Zmeskal, E. Widmann, C. Yoshida, C. CurceanuThe SIDDHARTA-2 experiment installed at the DAFNE collider of INFN-LNF performed, for the first time, measurements of high-n transitions in intermediate mass kaonic atoms during the data taking campaigns of 2021 and 2022. Kaonic carbon, oxygen, nitrogen and aluminium transitions, which occur in the setup materials, were measured by using the kaons stopped in the gaseous helium target cell with aluminium frames and Kaptonwalls, and are reported in this paper. These new kaonic atoms measurements add valuable input to the kaonic atoms transitions data base, which is used as a reference for theories and models of the low-energy strong interaction between antikaon and nuclei. Moreover, these results pave the way for future dedicated kaonic atoms measurements through the whole periodic table and to a new era for the antikaon-nuclei studies at low energy.
- TOF MLEM Adaptation for the Total-Body J-PET with a Realistic Analytical System Response MatrixR.Y. Shopa, J. Baran, K. Klimaszewski, W. Krzemień, L. Raczyński, W. Wiślicki, K. Brzeziński, N. Chug, A. Coussat, C. Curceanu, E. Czerwiński, M. Dadgar, K. Dulski, J. Gajewski, A. Gajos, B.C. Hiesmayr, E. Kavya Valsan, G. Korcyl, T. Kozik, D. Kumar, Ł. Kapłon, G. Moskal, S. Niedźwiecki, D. Panek, S. Parzych, E. Pérez del Rio, A. Ruciński, S. Sharma, Shivani, M. Silarski, M. Skurzok, E. Stepień, F. Tayefi Ardebili, K. Tayefi Ardebili, P. MoskalWe report a study of the original image reconstruction algorithm based on the time-of-flight maximum likelihood expectation maximisation (TOF MLEM), developed for the total-body (TB) Jagiellonian PET (J-PET) scanners. The method is applicable to generic cylindrical or modular multi-layer layouts and is extendable to multi-photon imaging. The system response matrix (SRM) is represented as a set of analytical functions, uniquely defined for each pair of plastic scintillator strips used for the detection. A realistic resolution model (RM) in detector space is derived from fitting the Monte Carlo simulated emissions and detections of annihilation photons on oblique transverse planes. Additional kernels embedded in SRM account for TOF, parallax effect and axial smearing. The algorithm was tested on datasets, simulated in GATE for the NEMA IEC and static XCAT phantoms inside a 24-module 2-layer TB J-PET. Compared to the reference TOF MLEM with none or a shift-invariant RM, an improvement was observed, as evaluated by the analysis of image quality, difference images and ground truth metrics. We also reconstructed the data with additive contributions, pre-filtered geometrically and with non-TOF scatter correction applied. Despite some deterioration, the obtained results still capitalise on the realistic RM with better edge preservation and superior ground truth metrics. The envisioned prospects of the TOF MLEM with analytical SRM include its application in multi-photon imaging and further upgrade to account for the non-collinearity, positron range and other factors.
- New measurements of kaonic helium-4 L-series X-rays yields in gas with the SIDDHARTINO setupD. L. Sirghi, H. Shi, C. Guaraldo, F. Sgaramella, C. Amsler, M. Bazzi, D. Bosnar, A. M. Bragadireanu, M. Cargnelli, M. Carminati, A. Clozza, G. Deda, L. De Paolis, R. Del Grande, L. Fabbietti, C. Fiorini, M. Iliescu, M. Iwasaki, J. Marton, M.. Miliucci, P. Moskal, F. Napolitano, S. Niedźwiecki, H. Onishi, K. Piscicchia, Y. Sada, A. Scordo, M. Silarski, F. Sirghi, M. Skurzok, A. Spallone, K. Toho, M. Tüchler, O. Vazquez Doce, J. Zmeskal, C. Yoshida, C. CurceanuThe L-series X-rays transitions of the kaonic helium-4 exotic atom were measured by SIDDHARTINO, the reduced configuration of the SIDDHARTA-2 experiment, at the DANE collider of INFN-LNF, with gaseous 4He targets at densities of 1.90 g/l and 0.82 g/l, corresponding to 1.5% and 0.66%, respectively, of the liquid helium-4 density. The absolute yields for the L? transition are determined to be 0.15 ?0.03 and 0.12 ?0.03, for the two target densities. The yields for the L? and L? transitions are presented relatively to that of the L? transition. These results are compatible with the yields measured by the SIDDHARTA experiment at the densities of 1.65 g/l and 2.15 g/l and contribute to refine the cascade models describing the de-excitation of kaonic atoms as function of density. ? 2022 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.
- Performance of the SABAT Neutron-Based Explosives Detector Integrated with an Unmanned Ground Vehicle: A Simulation StudyM. Silarski, M. NowakowskiThe effective and safe detection of illicit materials, explosives, in particular, is currently of growing importance taking into account the geopolitical situation and increasing risk of a terrorist attack. The commonly used methods of detection are based predominantly on metal detectors and georadars, which show only the shapes of the possible dangerous objects and do not allow for exact identification and risk assessment. A supplementary or even alternative method may be based on neutron activation analysis, which provides the possibility of a stoichiometric analysis of the suspected object and its non-invasive identification. One such sensor is developed by the SABAT collaboration, with its primary application being underwater threat detection. In this article, we present performance studies of this sensor, integrated with a mobile robot, in terms of the minimal detectable quantity of commonly used explosives in different environmental conditions. The paper describes the functionality of the used platform considering electronics, sensors, onboard computing power, and communication system to carry out the manual operation and remote control. Robotics solutions based on modularized structures allow the extension of sensors and effectors that can significantly improve the safety of personnel as well as work efficiency, productivity, and flexibility.
- Kaonic Atoms at the DAFNE Collider with the SIDDHARTA-2 ExperimentF. Napolitano, F. Sgaramella, M. Bazzi, D. Bosnar, M. Bragadireanu, M. Carminati, M. Cargnelli, A. Clozza, G. Deda, L. De Paolis, R. Del Grande, L. Fabbietti, C. Fiorini, C. Guaraldo, M. Iliescu, M. Iwasaki, P. Levi Sandri, J. Marton, M. Miliucci, P. Moskal, S. Niedźwiecki, K. Piscicchia, A. Scordo, H. Shi, D. Sirghi, F. Sirghi, M. Silarski, M. Skurzok, A. Spallone, M. Tüchler, J. Zmeskal, C. CurceanuKaonic atoms are a unique tool to explore quantum chromodynamics in the strangeness sector at low energy, with implications reaching neutron stars and dark matter. Precision X-ray spectroscopy can fully unlock the at-threshold isospin dependent antikaon-nucleon scattering lengths, via the atomic transitions to the fundamental level. While the SIDDHARTA experiment at the INFN-LNF DAFNE collider successfully measured kaonic hydrogen, its successor SIDDHARTA-2 is starting now its data taking campaign aiming to finally fully disentangle the isoscalar and isovector scattering lengths via the measurement of kaonic deuterium. An overview of the first experimental results from a preparatory run for the SIDDAHARTA-2 experiment is presented.
- Investigation of the light output of 3D-printed plastic scintillators for dosimetry applicationsŁ. Kapłon, D. Kulig, S. Beddar, T. Fiutowski, W. Górska, J. Hajduga, P. Jurgielewicz, D. Kabat, K. Kalecińska, M. Kopeć, S. Koperny, B. Mindur, J. Moroń, G. Moskal, S. Niedźwiecki, M. Silarski, F. Sobczuk, T. Szumlak, A. RucińskiThree-dimensional (3D) printing, specifically digital light processing (DLP) technique, can be used to manufacture plastic scintillators of any shape. The purpose of this study was to determine the light output of DLP 3Dprinted scintillators for dosimetry applications. Two types of plastic scintillators with dimensions 10 mm × 10 mm × 10 mm were fabricated using DLP 3D-printing at Hanyang University, South Korea. The light output of these DLP 3D-printed samples was measured and compared to that of a commercial plastic scintillator of the same dimensions, RP-408, produced by casting. The 3D-printed scintillators emitting violet and blue light had a lower relative light output by 49% and 43%, respectively, compared to the RP-408 reference scintillator. We also investigated three types of scintillator surface finishing methods: the original surface made by the 3D printer, a sanded surface, and a polished surface. Furthermore, three wrapping configurations were tested: bare scintillator, diffuse-type polytetrafluoroethylene tape, and specular-type enhanced specular reflector foil. Both reflector types, diffuse and specular, reflected blue light with comparable efficiency. Additionally, emission and transmission spectra of the samples were measured. Emission maxima were located at 430 nm for RP-408, and 438 and 475 nm for two 3D-printed samples. Transmittance at the wavelength of maximum emission was equal to 89% for RP-408, and 73% and 66% for the two DLP-printed samples. Although the light output of the 3D-printed scintillators was about 50% lower than that of the commercial plastic scintillator, due to characteristics of 3Dprinted plastic scintillators, i.e. fast, low-cost production, and easy customization of the printed shape, they are promising as an active part of dosimeters for use in high intensity gamma radiation fields produced by medical linear accelerators with acceptable signal-to-noise ratio level.
- The SIDDHARTA-2 calibration method for high precision kaonic atoms X-ray spectroscopy measurementsF. Sgaramella, M. Miliucci, M. Bazzi, D. Bosnar, M. Bragadireanu, M. Carminati, M. Cargnelli, A. Clozza, G. Deda, L. De Paolis, R. Del Grande, C. Fiorini, C. Guaraldo, M. Iliescu, M. Iwasaki, P. King, P. Levi Sandri, J. Marton, P. Moskal, F. Napolitano, S. Niedźwiecki, K. Piscicchia, A. Scordo, H. Shi, M. Silarski, D. Sirghi, F. Sirghi, M. Skurzok, A. Spallone, M. Tüchler, J. Zmeskal, C. CurceanuThe SIDDHARTA-2 experiment at the DAFNE collider aims to perform the first kaonic deuterium X-ray transitions to the fundamental level measurement, with a systematic error at the level of a few eV. To achieve this challenging goal the experimental apparatus is equipped with 384 Silicon Drift Detectors (SDDs) distributed around its cryogenic gaseous target. The SDDs developed by the SIDDHARTA-2 collaboration are suitable for high precision kaonic atoms spectroscopy, thanks to their high energy and time resolutions combined with their radiation hardness. The energy response of each detector must be calibrated and monitored to keep the systematic error, due to processes such as gain fluctuations, at the level of 2-3 eV. This paper presents the SIDDHARTA-2 calibration method which was optimized during the preliminary phase of the experiment in the real background conditions of the DAFNE collider, which is a fundamental tool to guarantee the high precision spectroscopic performances of the system over long periods of data taking, as that required for the kaonic deuterium measurement.
- Towards the first kaonic deuterium measurement with the SIDDHARTA-2 experiment at DAFNEM. Miliucci, M. Bazzi, D. Bosnar, M. Bragadireanu, M. Carminati, M. Cargnelli, A. Clozza, C. Curceanu, G. Deda, L. De Paolis, R. Del Grande, C. Fiorini, C. Guaraldo, M. Iliescu, M. Iwasaki, P. King, P. Levi Sandri, J. Marton, P. Moskal, F. Napolitano, S. Niedźwiecki, K. Piscicchia, A. Scordo, F. Sgaramella, H. Shi, M. Silarski, D. Sirghi, F. Sirghi, M. Skurzok, A. Spallone, M. Tüchler, J. ZmeskalThe SIDDHARTA-2 experiment is going to perform the longawaited high precision X-ray measurement of kaonic deuterium, obtaining for the first time the values of the shift and the width induced by the strong interaction on the fundamental level. By combining this unprecedented result with the analogous kaonic hydrogen measurement performed by the SIDDHARTA experiment, it will be possible to extract the isospin-dependent antikaon-nucleon scattering lengths, providing direct information on the Quantum Chromodynamics (QCD) in the non-perturbative Chromodynamics (QCD) in the non-perturbative regime in the strangeness sector. This paper describes the SIDDHARTA-2 experiment, presently installed at the DA?NE collider of Istituto Nazionale di Fisica Nucleare - Laboratori Nazionali di Frascati, and the results obtained during the kaonic helium run, preparatory for the kaonic deuterium data taking campaign planned for 2022.
- Large area silicon drift detectors system for high precision timed x-ray spectroscopyM. Miliucci, M. Iliescu, F. Sgaramella, M. Bazzi, D. Bosnar, M. Bragadireanu, M. Carminati, M. Cargnelli, A. Clozza, C. Curceanu, G. Deda, L. De Paolis, R. Del Grande, C. Fiorini, C. Guaraldo, M. Iwasaki, P. King, P. Levi Sandri, J. Marton, P. Moskal, F. Napolitano, S. Niedźwiecki, K. Piscicchia, A. Scordo, H. Shi, M. Silarski, D. Sirghi, F. Sirghi, M. Skurzok, A. Spallone, M. Tüchler, O. Vazquez Doce and J. ZmeskalThe current work presents the optimization of large area silicon drift detectors developed by the SIDDHARTA-2 collaboration for high precision x-ray measurements of light exotic atom transitions. Two different radiation sources were employed in the study: an x-ray tube, for investigating the energy resolution and the charge collection efficiency of the device in the range 4000 eV-13000 eV, and a beta-90Sr radioactive source for measuring the timing response, thus qualifying the charge drift parameters inside the semiconductor. The study reports the spectroscopic response optimization, together with the tuning of the electron dynamics for the given Silicon technology, by adjusting the applied electric field and the working temperature, which allow a good control of the device's performances for high precision, timed x-ray spectroscopy applications.
- Precision tests of quantum mechanics and CPT symmetry with entangled neutral kaons at KLOED. Babusci, M. Berlowski, C. Bloise, F. Bossi, P. Branchini, A. Budano, B. Cao, F. Ceradini, P. Ciambrone, F. Curciarello, E. Czerwiński, G. D'Agostini, E. Dane, V. De Leo, E. De Lucia, A. De Santis, P. De Simone, A. Di Cicco, A. Di Domenico, E. Diociaiuti, D. Domenici, A. D'Uffizi, A. Fantini, G. Fantini, P. Fermani, S. Fiore, A. Gajos, P. Gauzzi, S. Giovannella, E. Graziani, V. L. Ivanov, T. Johansson, X. Kang, D. Kisielewska-Kamińska, E. A. Kozyrev, W. Krzemien, A. Kupsc, P. A. Lukin, G. Mandaglio, M. Martini, R. Messi, S. Miscetti, D. Moricciani, P. Moskal, A. Passeri, V. Patera, E. Perez del Rio, P. Santangelo, M. Schioppa, A. Selce, M. Silarski, F. Sirghi, E. P. Solodov, L. Tortora, G. Venanzoni, W. Wiślicki, M. WolkeThe quantum interference between the decays of entangled neutral kaons is studied in the process phi -> KSKL -> pi(+)pi(-)pi(+)pi(-), which exhibits the characteristic Einstein-Podolsky-Rosen correlations that prevent both kaons to decay into pi(+)pi(-) at the same time. This constitutes a very powerful tool for testing at the utmost precision the quantum coherence of the entangled kaon pair state, and to search for tiny decoherence and CPT violation effects, which may be justified in a quantum gravity framework. The analysed data sample was collected with the KLOE detector at DAFNE, the Frascati phi-factory, and corresponds to an integrated luminosity of about 1.7 fb(-1), i.e. to about 1.7 x 10(9) phi -> KSKL decays produced. From the fit of the observed Delta t distribution, being Delta t the difference of the kaon decay times, the decoherence and CPT violation parameters of various phenomenological models are measured with a largely improved accuracy with respect to previous analyses. The results are consistent with no deviation from quantum mechanics and CPT symmetry, while for some parameters the precision reaches the interesting level at which - in the most optimistic scenarios - quantum gravity effects might show up. They provide the most stringent limits up to date on the considered models.
- A new kaonic helium measurement in gas by SIDDHARTINO at the DAFNE colliderD. Sirghi, F. Sirghi, F. Sgaramella, M. Bazzi, D. Bosnar, M. Bragadireanu, M. Carminati, M. Cargnelli, A. Clozza, G. Deda, L. De Paolis, R. Del Grande, L. Fabbietti, C. Fiorini, C. Guaraldo, M. Iliescu, M. Iwasaki, P. Levi Sandri, J. Marton, M. Miliucci, P. Moskal, F. Napolitano, S Niedźwiecki, K. Piscicchia, A. Scordo, H. Shi, M. Skurzok, M. Silarski, A. Spallone, M. Tüchler, O. Vazquez Doce, J. Zmeskal, C. CurceanuThe SIDDHARTINO experiment at the DAFNE Collider of INFN-LNF, the pilot run for the SIDDHARTA-2 experiment which aims to perform the measurement of kaonic deuterium transitions to the fundamental level, has successfully been concluded. The paper reports the main results of this run, including the optimization of various components of the apparatus, among which the degrader needed to maximize the fraction of kaons stopped inside the target, through measurements of kaonic helium transitions to the 2p level. The obtained shift and width values are epsilon_2p = E_exp-E_e.m = 0.2 pm 2.5(stat) pm 2(syst) eV and Gamma_2p = 8 pm 10 eV (stat), respectively. This new measuremnt of the shift, in particular, represents the most precise one for a gaseous target and is expected to contribute to a better understanding of the kaon-nuclei interaction at low energy.
- Investigation of the low-energy K- hadronic interactions with light nuclei by AMADEUSM. Skurzok, M. Bazzi, M. Bragadireanu, D. Bosnar, M. Cargnelli, A. Clozza, C. Curceanu, L. de Paolis, R. Del Grande, L. Fabbietti, C. Guaraldo, M. Iliescu, M. Iwasaki, P. Levi Sandri, J. Marton, M. Miliucci, P. Moskal, K. Piscicchia, A. Ramos, A. Scordo, M. Silarski, D.L. Sirghi, F. Sirghi, A. Spallone, O. Vazquez Doce, S. Wycech, J. ZmeskalThe aim of the AMADEUS collaboration is to provide new experimental constraints to the antikaon-nucleon (K-N) strong interaction in the regime of nonperturbative QCD, investigating the low-energy K- hadronic interactions with light nuclei like H, 4He, 9Be and 12C. The unique low-momentum kaon beam produced at the DAFNE collider is ideal to study K- nuclear captures, both at-rest and in-flight. The large acceptance KLOE detector, used as an active target, allows to achieve excellent position and momentum resolutions. In this work, a brief description of recent AMADEUS results is presented.
- Combined BNCT and PET for theranosticsM. Silarski, K. Dziedzic-Kocurek, M. SzczepanekThis short review summarizes the issue of boron distribution monitoring in boron neutron capture therapy (BNCT), which remains a serious drawback of this powerful oncological treatment. Here we present the monitoring methods that are presently used with particular emphasis on positron emission tomography (PET) which has the highest potential to be used for the real-time monitoring of boron biodistribution. We discuss the possibility of using present PET scanners to determine the boron uptake in vivo before the BNCT treatment with the use of p-boronphenylalanine (BPA) labeled with 18F isotope. Several examples of preclinical studies and clinical trials performed with the use of [18F]FBPA are shown. We also discuss shortly the perspectives of using other radiotracers and boron carriers which may significantly improve the boron imaging with the use of the state-of-the-art Total-Body PET scanners providing a theranostic approach in the BNCT.
- Silicon Drift Detectors' Spectroscopic Response during the SIDDHARTA-2 Kaonic Helium Run at the DAFNE ColliderM. Miliucci, M. Bazzi, D. Bosnar, M. Bragadireanu, M. Carminati, M. Cargnelli, A. Clozza, C. Curceanu, G. Deda, L. De Paolis, R. Del Grande, C. Fiorini, C. Guaraldo, M. Iliescu, M. Iwasaki, P. King, P. Levi Sandri, J. Marton, P. Moskal, F. Napolitano, S. Niedźwiecki, K. Piscicchia, A. Scordo, F. Sgaramella, H. Shi, M. Silarski, D. Sirghi, F. Sirghi, M. Skurzok, A. Spallone, M. Tüchler, O. Vazquez Doce, J. ZmeskalA large-area silicon drift detectors (SDDs) system has been developed by the SIDDHARTA-2 collaboration for high precision light kaonic atom X-ray spectroscopy at the DAFNE collider of Istituto Nazionale di Fisica Nucleare-Laboratori Nazionali di Frascati. The SDDs' geometry and electric field configuration, combined with their read-out electronics, make these devices suitable for performing high precision light kaonic atom spectroscopy measurements in the background of the DA phi NE collider. This work presents the spectroscopic response of the SDDs system during the first exotic atoms run of SIDDHARTA-2 with kaonic helium, a preliminary to the kaonic deuterium data taking campaign. The SIDDHARTA-2 spectroscopic system has good energy resolution and a 2 mu s timing window which rejects the asynchronous events, scaling the background by a factor of 10-5. The results obtained for the first exotic atoms run of SIDDHARTA-2 prove this system to be ready to perform the challenging kaonic deuterium measurement.
- Positronium imaging with the novel multiphoton PET scannerP. Moskal, K. Dulski, N. Chug, C. Curceanu, E. Czerwiński, M. Dadgar, J. Gajewski, A. Gajos, G. Grudzień, B.C. Hiesmayr, K. Kacprzak, Ł. Kapłon, H. Karimi, K. Klimaszewski, G. Korcyl, P. Kowalski, T. Kozik, N. Krawczyk, W. Krzemień, E. Kubicz, P. Małczak, S. Niedźwiecki, M. Pawlik-Niedźwiecka, M. Pędziwiatr, L. Raczyński, J. Raj, A. Ruciński, S. Sharma, Shivani, R.Y. Shopa, M. Silarski, M. Skurzok, E.Ł. Stępień, M. Szczepanek, F. Tayefi, W. WiślickiIn vivo assessment of cancer and precise location of altered tissues at initial stages of molecular disorders are important diagnostic challenges. Positronium is copiously formed in the free molecular spaces in the patient?s body during positron emission tomography (PET). The positronium properties vary according to the size of inter- and intramolecular voids and the concentration of molecules in them such as, e.g., molecular oxygen, O2; therefore, positronium imaging may provide information about disease progression during the initial stages of molecular alterations. Current PET systems do not allow acquisition of positronium images. This study presents a new method that enables positronium imaging by simultaneous registration of annihilation photons and deexcitation photons from pharmaceuticals labeled with radionuclides. The first positronium imaging of a phantom built from cardiac myxoma and adipose tissue is demonstrated. It is anticipated that positronium imaging will substantially enhance the specificity of PET diagnostics.
- Testing CPT symmetry in ortho-positronium decays with positronium annihilation tomographyP. Moskal, A. Gajos, M. Mohammed, J. Chhokar, N. Chug, C. Curceanu, E. Czerwiński, M. Dadgar, K. Dulski, M. Gorgol, J. Goworek, B. Hiesmayr, B. Jasińska, K. Kacprzak, Ł. Kapłon, H. Karimi, D. Kisielewska, K. Klimaszewski, G. Korcyl, P. Kowalski, N. Krawczyk, W. Krzemień, T. Kozik, E. Kubicz, S. Niedźwiecki, S. Parzych, M. Pawlik-Niedźwiecka, L. Raczyński, J. Raj, S. Sharma, S. Choudhary, R. Shopa, A. Sienkiewicz, M. Silarski, M. Skurzok, E. Stepien, F. Tayefi, W. WiślickiCharged lepton system symmetry under combined charge, parity, and time-reversal transformation (CPT) remain scarcely tested. Despite stringent quantum-electrodynamic limits, discrepancies in predictions for the electron-positron bound state (positronium atom) motivate further investigation, including fundamental symmetry tests. While CPT noninvariance effects could be manifested in non-vanishing angular correlations between final-state photons and spin of annihilating positronium, measurements were previously limited by the knowledge of the latter. Here, we demonstrate tomographic reconstruction techniques applied to three-photon annihilations of ortho-positronium atoms to estimate their spin polarisation without a magnetic field or polarised positronium source. We use a plastic-scintillator-based positron-emission-tomography scanner to record ortho-positronium (o-Ps) annihilations with a single-event estimation of o-Ps spin and determine the complete spectrum of an angular correlation operator sensitive to CPT-violating effects. We find no violation at the precision level of 10^{-4}, with an over threefold improvement on the previous measurement.
- Kaonic Atoms Measurements at DAFNE: SIDDHARTA-2 and Future PerspectivesC. Curceanu,, M. Miliucci, A. Scordo, M. Bazzi, D. Bosnar, M. Bragadireanu, M. Cargnelli, M. Carminati, A. Clozza, G. Deda, L. De Paolis, R. Del Grande, C. Fiorini, C. Guaraldo, M. Iliescu, M. Iwasaki, P. King, P. Levi Sandri, J. Marton, P. Moskal, F. Napolitano, S. Niedźwiecki, K. Piscicchia, F. Sgaramella, H. Shi, M. Silarski, D. Sirghi, F. Sirghi, M. Skurzok, A. Spallone, M. Tüchler, O. Vazquez Doce, J. ZmeskalHigh precision light kaonic atoms X-ray spectroscopy is a unique tool for performing experiments equivalent to scattering at vanishing relative energies, to determine the antikaon-nucleus interaction at threshold without the need of extrapolation to zero energy. The SIDDHARTA-2 collaboration is going to perform the first measurement of kaonic deuterium transitions to the fundamental level, which is mandatory to extract the isospin dependent antikaon-nucleon scattering lengths. The SIDDHARTA-2 experiment is presently installed on the DA Phi NE collider of INFN-LNF. The preliminary results obtained during the machine commissioning phase in preparation for the kaonic deuterium data taking campaign, together with future perspectives for extreme precision kaonic atoms studies at DA Phi NE are presented.
- The J-PET detector - a tool for precision studies of ortho-positronium decaysK. Dulski, S.D. Bass, J. Chhokar, N. Chug, C. Curceanu, E. Czerwiński, M. Dadgar, J. Gajewski, A. Gajos, M. Gorgol, R. Del Grande, B.C. Hiesmayr, B. Jasińska, K. Kacprzak, Ł. Kapłon, H. Karimi, D. Kisielewska, K. Klimaszewski, P. Kopka, G. Korcyl, P. Kowalski, T. Kozik, N. Krawczyk, W. Krzemień, E. Kubicz, P. Małczak, M. Mohammed, Sz. Niedźwiecki, M. Pałka, M. Pawlik-Niedźwiecka, M. Pędziwiatr, L. Raczyński7, J. Raj, A. Ruciński, S. Sharma, Shivani, R.Y. Shopa, M. Silarski, M. Skurzok, E. Ł. Stępień, F. Tayefi, W. Wiślicki, B. Zgardzińska, P. MoskalThe J-PET tomograph is constructed from plastic scintillator strips arranged axially in concentric cylindrical layers. It enables investigations of positronium decays by measurement of the time, position, polarization and energy deposited by photons in the scintillators, in contrast to studies conducted so far with crystal and semiconductor based detection systems where the key selection of events is based on the measurement of the photons energies. In this article we show that the J-PET tomography system constructed solely from plastic scintillator detectors is capable of exclusive measurements of the decays of ortho-positronium atoms. We present the first positronium production results and its lifetime distribution measurements. The obtained results prove the capability of the J-PET tomograph for (i) fundamental studies of positronium decays (in particular test of discrete symmetries in purely leptonic systems), (ii) positron annihilation lifetime spectroscopy, as well as (iii) molecular imaging diagnostics and (iv) observation of entanglement
- Low energy kaon-nuclei interaction at DAFNE: The SIDDHARTA-2 experimentM. Miliucci, M. Bazzi, D. Bosnar, M. Bragadireanu, M. Carminati, M. Cargnelli, A. Clozza, C. Curceanu, G. Deda, L. De Paolis, R. Del Grande, C. Fiorini, C. Guaraldo, M. Iliescu, M. Iwasaki, P. King, P. Levi Sandri, J. Marton, P. Moskal, F. Napolitano, S. Niedźwiecki, K. Piscicchia, A. Scordo, F. Sgaramella, H. Shi, M. Silarski, D. Sirghi, F. Sirghi, M. Skurzok, A. Spallone, M. Tüchler, O. Vazquez Doce, J. ZmeskalLight kaonic atoms spectroscopy is a unique tool for the investigation of the low-energy quantum chromodynamics (QCD) in the strangeness sector. The precise measurements of the X-ray emission from light kaonic atoms provide information on the kaon-nucleus interaction at the threshold without the need for an extrapolation as in the case of scattering experiments. In 2009, the SIDDHARTA Collaboration performed the most precise measurement of kaonic hydrogen (K - H) X-ray transition to the fundamental level. Nowadays, the SIDDHARTA-2 Collaboration is ready to perform the more challenging measurement of kaonic deuterium (K - d) 2p -> 1s transition. To achieve this unprecedented result, which is fundamental to extract the isospin-dependent antikaon-nucleon scattering lengths, an upgraded experimental apparatus with respect to the SIDDHARTA one was realized. This paper presents an overview of the SIDDHARTA-2 setup installed on the DAFNE collider of LNF-INFN and the first results obtained during the machine optimization phase, in preparation for the kaonic deuterium data taking campaign planned in 20212022.
- Silicon Drift Detectors system for high precision light kaonic atoms spectroscopyM. Miliucci, A. Scordo, D. Sirghi, A. Amirkhani, A. Baniahmad, M. Bazzi, D. Bosnar, M. Bragadireanu, M. Carminati, M. Cargnelli, A. Clozza, C. Curceanu, L. De Paolis, R. Del Grande, C. Fiorini, C. Guaraldo, M. Iliescu, M. Iwasaki, P. Levi Sandri, J. Marton, P. Moskal, F. Napolitano, S. Niedźwiecki, K. Piscicchia, F. Sgaramella, H. Shi, M. Silarski, F. Sirghi, M. Skurzok, A. Spallone, M. Tüchler, O. Vazquez Doce, J. ZmeskalA large area Silicon Drift Detectors (SDDs) system and its readout electronics have been developed by the SIDDHARTA-2 Collaboration, aiming to perform high precision light kaonic atoms X-ray spectroscopy for the investigation of the ?-N strong interaction in the low-energy QCD regime. To perform these measurements, a linear energy response and a good energy resolution are mandatory requirements for the system, to be preserved along the whole DAQ (analog and digital) chain; such task is made even harder in the experimental environment of particles colliders, where the high background due to ionizing particles and radiation is present. The energy response of the SDDs system has been characterized with the beam-originating background generated during the commissioning phase of the DAFNE electron-positron collider (INFN-LNF) in early 2020. The data analysis has been optimized to describe the system's response and the background. The calibration procedure demonstrates that, despite the high and variable background of the collider, the energy response of the system is linear at the level of few eV (?E/E <10e-3), with an energy resolution of 157.8?0.3(+0.2)(-0.2)eV for the Fe Kalpha line.
- Design, structure, microstructure and gamma radiation shielding properties of refractory concrete materials containing Ba- and Sr-doped cementsD. Madej , M. Silarski , S. ParzychThis paper presents an experimental study on the performance of shielding refractory concretes containing new types of cement for use in radiation protection technology. Three concretes with corundum aggregate and special refractory inorganic cements belonging to the CaO-Al2O3, SrO-CaO-Al2O3-ZrO2, SrO-Al2O3 and BaO-CaO-Al2O3-ZrO2 systems were tested. The products formed in the hydration of these binders were detected by SEM-EDS. The linear attenuation coefficients obtained from measurements with ? quanta emitted by the following sources: 22Na, 137Cs, 60Co, 133Ba and 152Eu in the range of 80-1408 keV were determined twice, firstly after casting and drying (110 oC) of concretes, and secondly after sintering at 1400 oC. Especially, this work fills the gap in the literature providing the gamma rays attenuation properties of cement-containing heat resistant corundum concretes in the energy region between 779 keV and 1112 keV. The experimental setup equipped with the ORTEC GMX25P4-70 High Purity Germanium detector (HPGe) cooled with liquid nitrogen was used for the determination of the gamma-ray linear attenuation coefficients of new materials. The role of the cement on the compressive and bending strengths, pore structure (mercury intrusion porosimetry), phase composition (XRD, FT-IR), and microstructure (SEM-EDS) of heat-treated concretes was reported. It was found that the incorporation of Sr or Ba and Zr elements with cements improved the attenuation properties of corundum-based concretes, in comparison to the concretes containing Ca. The doping alkaline earth elements i.e. Sr and Ba were chemically bonded within both hydraulic matrix of green concretes and ceramic matrix formed in concrete through sintering at 1400 ?C. Hence, these materials with gamma radiation shielding capacity are designed for special construction applications.
- On the K- Absorptions in Light Nuclei by AMADEUSR. Del Grande, K. Piscicchia, M. Cargnelli, L. Fabbietti, J. Marton, P. Moskal, A. Ramos, A. Scordo, D. Sirghi, M. Skurzok, O.Vazquez Doce, S. Wycech, J. Zmeskal, P. Branchini, E. Czerwinski, V. De Leo, E. De Lucia, A. Di Cicco, E. Diociaiuti, R. Donghia, P. Fermani, S. Fiore, M. Martini, E.Perez Del Rio, A. Selce, M. Silarski, C. CurceanuThe aim of the AMADEUS collaboration is to provide experimental information on the low-energy strong interaction of antikaons with nucleons, exploiting the absorptions of low momentum K- mesons (pK ~127 MeV/c) produced at the DANE collider, in the materials composing the KLOE detector setup, used as an active target. The K- single and multi-nucleon absorptions in light nuclei (4He and 12C) are investigated by reconstructing hyperon?pion, hyperon?nucleon/nucleus pairs, emitted in the final state of the reactions. In this paper the results obtained from the study of pi-, p and t correlated production are presented.
- 3D TOF-PET image reconstruction using total variation regularizationL. Raczyński, W. Wiślicki, K. Klimaszewski, W. Krzemień, P. Kopka, P. Kowalski, R. Y. Shopa, M. Bała, J. Chhokar, C. Curceanu, E. Czerwinski, K. Dulski, J. Gajewski, A. Gajos, M. Gorgol, R. Del Grande, B. Hiesmayr, B. Jasińska, K. Kacprzak, L. Kapłon, D. Kisielewska, G. Korcyl, T. Kozik, N. Krawczyk, E. Kubicz, M. Mohammed, S. Niedźwiecki, M. Pałka, M. Pawlik-Niedźwiecka, J. Raj, K. Rakoczy, A. Ruciński, S. Sharma, S. Shivani, M. Silarski, M. Skurzok, E.Ł. Stepień, B. Zgardzińska, P. MoskalIn this paper we introduce a semi-analytic algorithm for 3-dimensional image reconstruction for positron emission tomography (PET). The method consists of the back-projection of the acquired data into the most likely image voxel according to time-of-flight (TOF) information, followed by the filtering step in the image space using an iterative optimization algorithm with a total variation (TV) regularization. TV regularization in image space is more computationally efficient than usual iterative optimization methods for PET reconstruction with a full system matrix that uses TV regularization. The efficiency comes from the one-time TOF back-projection step that might also be described as a reformatting of the acquired data. An important aspect of our work concerns the evaluation of the filter operator of the linear transform mapping an original radioactive tracer distribution into the TOF back-projected image. We obtain concise, closed-form analytical formula for the filter operator. The proposed method is validated with the Monte Carlo simulations of the NEMA IEC phantom using a one-layer, 50 cm-long cylindrical device called Jagiellonian PET scanner. The results show a better image quality compared with the reference TOF maximum likelihood expectation maximization algorithm.
- Characterization of the SIDDHARTA-2 luminosity monitorM. Skurzok, A. Scordo, S. Niedzwiecki, A. Baniahmad, M. Bazzi, D. Bosnar, M. Bragadireanu, M. Carminati, M. Cargnelli, A. Clozza, C. Curceanu, L. De Paolis, R. Del Grande, L. Fabbietti, C. Fiorini, C. Guaraldo, M. Iliescu, M. Iwasaki, P. Levi Sandri, J. Marton, M. Miliucci, P. Moskal, K. Piscicchia, F. Sgaramella, H. Shi, M. Silarski, D. L. Sirghi, F. Sirghi, A. Spallone, M. Tüchler, O. Vazquez Doce, J. ZmeskalA luminosity monitor, based on plastic scintillator detectors, has been developed for the SIDDHARTA-2 experiment aiming to perform high precision measurements of kaonic atoms and was installed in 2020 on the DAFNE e+e- collider at LNF (Laboratori Nazionali di Frascati, INFN). The main goal of this system is to provide the~instantaneous and integrated luminosity of the DAFNE facility by measuring the rate of K+K- correlated pairs emitted by the Phi meson decay. This task requires an accurate timing of the DAQ signals, as well as timing resolution below 1ns, in order to disentangle the K+- signals from the background minimum ionizing particles (MIPs) produced during the e+e- collisions at DAFNE. In this paper the luminosity monitor concept as well as its laboratory characterization and the first results inside DAFNE are presented.
- Upper limit on the eta->pi+pi- branching fraction with the KLOE experimentD. Babusci, M. Berlowski, C. Bloise, F. Bossi, P. Branchini, A. Budano, B. Cao, F. Ceradini, P. Ciambrone, F. Curciarello, E. Czerwiński, G. D'Agostini, E. Dan?, V. De Leo, E. De Lucia, A. De Santis, P. De Simone, A. Di Cicco, A. Di Domenico, D. Domenici, A. D'Uffizi, A. Fantini, P. Fermani, S. Fiore, A. Gajos, P. Gauzzi, S. Giovannella, E. Graziani, V. L. Ivanov, T. Johansson, X. Kang, D. Kisielewska-Kamińska, E. A. Kozyrev, W. Krzemien, A. Kupsc, P. A. Lukin, G. Mandaglio, M. Martini, R. Messi, S. Miscetti, D. Moricciani, P. Moskal, S. Parzych, A. Passeri, V. Patera, E. Perez del Rio, P. Santangelo, M. Schioppa, A. Selce, M. Silarski, F. Sirghi, E. P. Solodov, L. Tortora, G. Venanzoni, W. Wiślicki, M. WolkeBased on an integrated luminosity of 1.61 fb^{-1} e+e- collision data collected with the KLOE detector at DAFNE, the Frascati phi-factory, a search for the P- and CP-violating decay eta->pi+pi- has been performed. Radiative phi->eta gamma decay is exploited to access the eta mesons. No signal is observed in the pi+pi- invariant mass spectrum, and the upper limit on the branching fraction at 90% confidence level is determined to be B(eta->pi+pi-)<4.9x10^{-6}, which is approximately three times smaller than the previous KLOE result. From the combination of these two measurements we get B(eta->pi+pi-)<4.4x10^{-6} at 90% confidence level.
- Synchronisation and calibration of the 24-modules J-PET prototype with 300 mm axial field of viewP. Moskal, T. Bednarski, Sz. Niedźwiecki, M. Silarski, E. Czerwiński, T. Kozik, J. Chhokar, M. Bała, C. Curceanu, R. Del Grande, M. Dadgar, K. Dulski, A. Gajos, M. Gorgol, N. Gupta-Sharma, B. C. Hiesmayr, B. Jasińska, K. Kacprzak, Ł. Kapłon, H. Karimi, D. Kisielewska, K.Klimaszewski, G. Korcyl, P. Kowalski, N. Krawczyk, W. Krzemień, E. Kubicz, M. Mohammed, M. Pawlik-Niedźwiecka, L. Raczyński, S. Sharma, Shivani, R. Y. Shopa, M. Skurzok, E. Stępień, W. Wiślicki, B. ZgardzińskaResearch conducted in the framework of the J-PET project aims to develop a cost-effective total-body positron emission tomography scanner. As a first step on the way to construct a full-scale J-PET tomograph from long strips of plastic scintillators, a 24-strip prototype was built and tested. The prototype consists of detection modules arranged axially forming a cylindrical diagnostic chamber with an inner diameter of 360 mm and an axial field-of-view of 300 mm. Promising perspectives for a low-cost construction of a total-body PET scanner are opened due to an axial arrangement of strips of plastic scintillators, which have a small light attenuation, superior timing properties, and the possibility of cost-effective increase of the axial field-of-view. The presented prototype comprises dedicated solely digital front-end electronic circuits and a triggerless data acquisition system which required development of new calibration methods including time, thresholds and gain synchronization. The system and elaborated calibration methods including first results of the 24-module J-PET prototype are presented and discussed. The achieved coincidence resolving time equals to CRT = 490 +- 9 ps. This value can be translated to the position reconstruction accuracy s(Dl) = 18 mm which is fairly position-independent Keywords: positron emission tomography, plastic scintillators, J-PET.
- Total branching ratio of the K- two-nucleon absorption in 12CR. Del Grande, K. Piscicchia, M. Cargnelli, C. Curceanu, L. Fabbietti, J. Marton, P. Moskal, A. Ramos, A. Scordo, D. Sirghi, M. Skurzok, O.Vazquez Doce, S. Wycech, J. Zmeskal, V. De Leo, G. Mandaglio, M. Martini, E.Perez Del Rio, A. Selce, M. SilarskiThis work is a critical re-analysis of the results obtained by the AMADEUS collaboration, concerning the measurement of the K? multi-nucleon absorption reactions, on a 12C target, in the Lambdap final state (Del Grande et al 2019 Eur. Phys. J. C 79, 190). We show that a good estimate of the K- two-nucleon absorption total branching ratio can be extracted, given that the measured final state interactions and conversion reactions contain information on almost all the remaining hyperon-nucleon final state combinations. The main contribution to the total branching ratio of the K? two-nucleon absorption in Carbon is extracted from the measured ratios and is found to be (16.1+-2.9(stat.)-5.5+4.3(syst.))%, which is in agreement with recent theoretical predictions. The missing contribution, from those few channels for which a Lambdap pair could not be detected in the final state of the interaction, is also estimated combining both the measured branching ratios and the available theoretical information, and amounts to (5.5+-0.1(stat.)-0.9+1.0(syst.))%. All together the total branching ratio of the K- two-nucleon absorption in Carbon is found to be (21.6+-2.9(stat.)-5.6+4.4(syst.))%.
- Performance assessment of the 2gamma positronium imaging with the total-body PET scannersP. Moskal, D. Kisielewska, Z. Bura, C. Chhokar, C. Curceanu, E. Czerwiński, M. Dadgar, K. Dulski, J. Gajewski, A. Gajos, M. Gorgol, R. Del Grande, B. C. Hiesmayr, B. Jasińska, K. Kacprzak, A. Kamińska, Ł. Kapłon, H. Karimi, G. Korcyl, P. Kowalski, N. Krawczyk, W. Krzemień, T. Kozik, E. Kubicz, P. Małczak, M. Mohammed, Sz. Niedźwiecki, M. Pałka, M. Pawlik-Niedźwiecka, M. Pędziwiatr, L. Raczyński, J. Raj, A. Ruciński, S. Sharma, Shivani, R. Y. Shopa, M. Silarski, M. Skurzok, E. Ł. Stępień, S. Vandenberghe, W. Wiślicki, B. ZgardzińskaIn living organisms the positron-electron annihilation (occurring during the PET imaging) proceeds in about 30% via creation of a metastable ortho-positronium atom. In the tissue, due to the pick-off and conversion processes, over 98% of ortho-positronia annihilate into two 511~keV photons. In this article we assess the feasibility for reconstruction of the mean ortho-positronium lifetime image based on annihilations into two photons. The main objectives of this work include: (i) estimation of the sensitivity of the total-body PET scanners for the ortho-positronium mean lifetime imaging using 2gamma annihilations, and (ii) estimation of the spatial and time resolution of the ortho-positronium image as a function of the coincidence resolving time (CRT) of the scanner. Simulations are conducted assuming that radiopharmaceutical is labelled with 44Sc isotope emitting one positron and one prompt gamma. The image is reconstructed on the basis of triple coincidence events. The ortho-positronium lifetime spectrum is determined for each voxel of the image. Calculations were performed for cases of total-body detectors build of (i) LYSO scintillators as used in the EXPLORER PET, and (ii) plastic scintillators as anticipated for the cost-effective total-body J-PET scanner. To assess the spatial and time resolution the three cases were considered assuming that CRT is equal to 140ps, 50ps and 10ps. The estimated total-body PET sensitivity for the registration and selection of image forming triple coincidences is larger by a factor of 12.2 (for LYSO PET) and by factor of 4.7 (for plastic PET) with respect to the sensitivity for the standard 2gamma imaging by LYSO PET scanners with AFOV=20cm.
- Estimating relationship between the Time Over Threshold and energy loss by photons in plastic scintillators used in the J-PET scannerS. Sharma, J. Chhokar, C. Curceanu, E. Czerwinski, M. Dadgar, K. Dulski, J. Gajewski, A. Gajos, M. Gorgol, N. Gupta-Sharma, R. Del Grande, B. C. Hiesmayr, B. Jasinska, K. Kacprzak, L. Kaplon, H. Karimi, D. Kisielewska, K. Klimaszewski, G. Korcyl, P. Kowalski, T. Kozik, N. Krawczyk, W. Krzemien, E. Kubicz, M. Mohammed, Sz. Niedzwiecki, M. Palka, M. Pawlik-Niedzwiecka, L. Raczynski, J. Raj, A. Rucinski, Shivani, R. Y. Shopa, M. Silarski, M. Skurzok, E. L. Stepien, W. Wislicki, B. Zgardzinska, P. MoskalTime-Over-Threshold (TOT) technique is being used widely due to its implications in developing the multi channel readouts mainly when fast signal processing is required. Using TOT technique as a measure of energy loss instead of charge integration methods significantly reduces the signals readout cost by combining the time and energy information. Therefore, this approach can potentially be used in J-PET tomograph which is build from plastic scintillators characterized by fast light signals. The drawback in adopting this technique is lying in the non-linear correlation between input energy loss and TOT of the signal. The main motivation behind this work is to develop the relationship between TOT and energy loss and validate it with the J-PET tomograph. The experiment was performed using the 22Na beta emitter source placed in the center of the J-PET tomograph. One can obtain primary photons of two different energies: 511 keV photon from the annihilation of positron (direct annihilation or through the formation of para-Positronim atom or pick-off process of ortho-Positronium atoms), and 1275 keV prompt photon. This allows to study the correlation between TOT values and energy loss for energy range up to 1000 keV. As the photon interacts dominantly via Compton scattering inside the plastic scintillator, there is no direct information of primary photon energy. However, using the J-PET geometry one can measure the scattering angle of the interacting photon. Since, 22Na source emits photons of two different energies, it is required to know unambiguously the energy of incident photons and its corresponding scattering angle for the estimation of energy deposition. In this work, the relationship between Time Over Threshold and energy loss by interacting photons inside the plastic scintillators used in J-PET scanner is established for a energy deposited range 100-1000 keV.
- Hit-time and hit-position reconstruction in strips of plastic scintillators using multi-threshold readoutsN. G. Sharma, M. Silarski, J. Chhokar, E. Czerwinski, C. Curceanu, K. Dulski, K. Farbaniec, A. Gajos, R. Del Grande, M. Gorgol, B. C. Hiesmayr, B. Jasinska, K. Kacprzak, L. Kaplon, D. Kisielewska, K. Klimaszewski, G. Korcyl, P. Kowalski, N. Krawczyk, W. Krzemien, T. Kozik, E. Kubicz, M. Mohammed, Sz. Niedzwiecki, M. Palka, M. Pawlik-Niedzwiecka, L. Raczynski, J. Raj, S. Sharma, S. Shivani, R. Y. Shopa, M. Skurzok, W. Wislicki, B. Zgardzinska, P. MoskalIn this article a new method for the reconstruction of hit-position and hit-time of photons in long scintillator detectors is investigated. This research is motivated by the recent development of the positron emission tomography scanners based on plastic scintillators. The proposed method constitutes a new way of signal processing in Multi-Voltage-Technique. It is based on the determination of the degree of similarity between the registered signals and the synchronized model signals stored in a library. The library was established for a set of well defined hit-positions along the length of the scintillator. The Mahalanobis distance was used as a measure of similarity between the two compared signals. The method was validated on the experimental data measured using two-strips J-PET prototype with dimensions of 5x9x300 mm. The obtained Time-of-Flight (TOF) and spatial resolutions amount to 325 ps (FWHM) and 25 mm (FWHM), respectively. The TOF resolution was also compared to the results of an analogous study done using Linear Fitting method. The best TOF resolution was obtained with this method at four pre-defined threshold levels which was comparable to the resolution achieved from the Mahalanobis distance at two pre-defined threshold levels. Although the algorithm of Linear Fitting method is much simpler to apply than the Mahalanobis method, the application of the Mahalanobis distance requires a lower number of applied threshold levels and, hence, decreases the costs of electronics used in PET scanner.
- Kaonic Atoms to Investigate Global Symmetry BreakingC. Curceanu, C. Guaraldo, D. Sirghi, A. Amirkhani, A Baniahmad, M. Bazzi, G. Bellotti, D. Bosnar, A. M. Bragadireanu, M. Cargnelli, M. Carminati, A. Clozza, L. De Paolis, R. Del Grande, C. Fiorini, M. Iliescu, M. Iwasaki, P. King, P. Levi Sandri, J. Marton, M. Miliucci, P. Moskal, S. Niedzwiecki, S. Okada, K. Piscicchia, A. Scordo, M. Silarski, F. Sirghi, M. Skurzok, A. Spallone, M. Tuechler, G. Utica, O. Vazquez Doce, J. ZmeskalKaonic atoms measure the antikaon-nucleus interaction at almost zero relative energy, allowing one to determine basic low-energy quantum chromodynamics (QCD) quantities, namely, the antikaon-nucleon ( K- N) scattering lengths. The latter are important for extracting the sigma terms which are built on the symmetry breaking part of the Hamiltonian, thereby providing a measure of chiral and SU(3) symmetries breaking. After discussing the sigma terms and their relations to the kaonic atoms, we describe the most precise measurement in the literature of kaonic hydrogen, performed at LNF-INFN by the SIDDHARTA experiment. Kaonic deuterium is still to be measured, and two experiments are planned. The first, SIDDHARTA-2 at LNF-INFN was installed on DAFNE in spring 2019 and will collect data in 2020. The second, E57 at J-PARC, will become operative in 2021
- Kaonic Atoms to Investigate Global Symmetry BreakingC. Curceanu, C. Guaraldo, D. Sirghi, A. Amirkhani, A. Baniahmad , M. Bazzi, G. Bellotti, D. Bosnar, M. Bragadireanu, M. Cargnelli, M. Carminati, A. Clozza, L. De Paolis, R. Del Grande, C. Fiorini, M. Iliescu, M. Iwasaki, P. King, P. Levi Sandri, J. Marton, M. Miliucci, P. Moskal, S. Niedzwiecki, S. Okada, K. Piscicchia, A. Scordo, M. Silarski, F. Sirghi, M. Skurzok, A. Spallone, M. Tuchler, G. Utica, O. Vazquez Doce, J. ZmeskalKaonic atoms measure the antikaon-nucleus interaction at almost zero relative energy, allowing one to determine basic low-energy quantum chromodynamics (QCD) quantities, namely, the antikaon-nucleon (KN) scattering lengths. The latter are important for extracting the sigma terms which are built on the symmetry breaking part of the Hamiltonian, thereby providing a measure of chiral and SU(3) symmetries breaking. After discussing the sigma terms and their relations to the kaonic atoms, we describe the most precise measurement in the literature of kaonic hydrogen, performed at LNF-INFN by the SIDDHARTA experiment. Kaonic deuterium is still to be measured, and two experiments are planned. The first, SIDDHARTA-2 at LNF-INFN was installed on DAFNE in spring 2019 and will collect data in 2020. The second, E57 at J-PARC, will become operative in 2021.
- Measurement of the branching fraction for the decay KS -> pi mu nu with the KLOE detectorD. Babusci, M. Berlowski, C. Bloise, F. Bossi, P. Branchini, A. Budano, B. Cao, F. Ceradini, P. Ciambrone, F. Curciarello, E. Czerwisnski, G. D'Agostini, E. Dane, V. De Leo, E. De Lucia, A. De Santis, P. De Simone, A. Di Cicco, A. Di Domenico, D. Domenici, A. D'Uffizi, A. Fantini, P. Fermani, S. Fiore, A. Gajos, P. Gauzzi, S. Giovannella, E. Graziani, V. L. Ivanov, T. Johansson, X. Kang, D. Kisielewska-Kamisnska, E. A. Kozyrev, W. Krzemien, A. Kupsc, P. A. Lukin, G. Mandaglio, M. Martini, R. Messi, S. Miscetti, D. Moricciani, P. Moskal, S. Parzych, A. Passeri, V. Patera, E. Perez del Rio, P. Santangelo, M. Schioppa, A. Selce, M. Silarski, F. Sirghi, E. P. Solodov, L. Tortora, G. Venanzoni, W. Wislicki, M. WolkeBased on a sample of 300 million KS mesons produced in phi -> KLKS decays recorded by the KLOE experiment at the DAFNE e+e- collider we have measured the branching fraction for the decay KS -> pi mu nu. The KS mesons are identified by the interaction of KL mesons in the detector. The KS -> pi mu nu decays are selected by a boosted decision tree built with kinematic variables and by a time-of-flight measurement. Signal efficiencies are evaluated with data control samples of KL -> pi mu nu decays. A fit to the reconstructed muon mass distribution finds 7223?180 signal events. Normalising to the KS -> pi+ pi- decay events the result for the branching fraction is B(KS -> pi mu nu) = (4.56+-0.11stat+-0.17syst)×10-4.
- Recent Experimental Results on the Low-energy K- Interaction with Nucleons by AMADEUSR. Del Grande, M. Bazzi, A.M. Bragadireanu, D. Bosnar, M. Cargnelli, C. Curceanu, L. De Paolis, L. Fabbietti, C. Fiorini, F. Ghio, C. Guaraldo, R.S. Hayano, M. Iliescu, M. Iwasaki, P. Levi Sandri, J. Marton, M. Miliucci, P. Moskal, S. Okada, K. Piscicchia, A. Ramos, A. Scordo, M. Silarski, D.L. Sirghi, F. Sirghi, M. Skurzok, A. Spallone, O. Vazquez Doce, E. Widmann, S. Wycech, J. ZmeskalRecent results obtained by the AMADEUS Collaboration on the experimental investigation of the K- low-energy interaction with light nuclei are summarised. The step 0 of AMADEUS consists in the analysis of the data collected at the DAFNE collider with the KLOE detector during the 2004/2005 data taking campaign. The low momentum K- particles (pK circ 127 MeV/c) are absorbed in the light nuclei contained in the detector setup (H, 4He, 9Be and 12C) and hyperon-pion/hyperon-nucleons, emitted in the final state, are reconstructed. From the study of Lambda pi- and Lambda p correlated production, important information on the KN strong interaction in the non-perturbative QCD regime are extracted.
- Kaonic Deuterium Measurement with SIDDHARTA-2 on DAFNEC. Curceanu, A. Amirkhani, A. Baniahmad, M. Bazzi, D. Bosnar, M. Bragadireanu, M. Carminati, M. Cargnelli, A. Clozza, L. De Paolis, R. Del Grande, L. Fabbietti, C. Fiorini, F. Ghio, C. Guaraldo, M. Iliescu, M. Iwasaki, P. Levi Sandri, J. Marton, M. Miliucci, P. Moskal, S. Niedźwiecki, S. Okada, D. Pietreanu, K. Piscicchia, A. Scordo, H. Shi, M. Silarski, D.L. Sirghi, F. Sirghi, M. Skurzok, A. Spallone, H. Tatsuno, M. Tüchler, O. Vazquez Doce, E. Widmann, J. ZmeskalThe interaction of antikaons with nucleons and nuclei in the low-energy regime represents an active research field in hadron physics with still many important open questions. The investigation of light kaonic atoms is, in this context, a unique tool to obtain precise information on this interaction. The most precise kaonic hydrogen measurement to date, together with an exploratory measurement of kaonic deuterium, were carried out by the SIDDHARTA Collaboration at the DAFNE electron-positron collider of LNF-INFN, by combining the excellent quality kaon beam delivered by the collider with new experimental techniques, as fast and precise Silicon-Drift X-ray detectors. The measurement of kaonic deuterium will be realized in the near future by SIDDHARTA-2, a major upgrade of SIDDHARTA.
- A Method for Time Calibration of PET Systems Using Fixed beta+ Radioactive SourceK. Dulski, M. Silarski, P. MoskalThe Positron Emission Tomography (PET) is one of the most popular imaging techniques of the human body. During the PET scans, a positron from the beta+ emitter given to the patient, directly or after forming a positronium, annihilates with an electron from the patient, with emission of photons. Registration of produced photons allows one to reconstruct the distribution of radioisotopes in the patient's body, further interpreted as the metabolic image. The imaging of metabolism can be improved by measurement of the time difference between registration of the two photons in coincidence (Time-of-Flight (TOF))[1]. In the case of the TOF-PET scanners, the time resolution of the detection system and its calibration is crucial. The Jagiellonian Positron Emission Tomograph (J-PET) detector is an example of the TOF-PET system, constructed at the Jagiellonian University in Kraków, which is based on plastic scintillators and very fast electronics
- Hazardous Substance Detection in Water Environments using Neutron Beams: the SABAT ProjectM. SilarskiThe ever-increasing risk of terrorist attacks is a stimulus for seeking new, more effective danger detection methods. The article describes new methods of detecting hazardous materials based on the interaction between neutrons and matter. The status of the design of the device for detecting hazardous materials in water environments based on these methods, currently in development at the Jagiellonian University (Kraków, Poland), will be presented as well.
- Feasibility study of the positronium imaging with the J-PET tomographP. Moskal, D. Kisielewska, C. Curceanu, E. Czerwiński, K. Dulski, A. Gajos, M. Gorgol, B. Hiesmayr, B. Jasińska, K. Kacprzak, Ł. Kapłon, G. Korcyl, P. Kowalski, W. Krzemień, T. Kozik, E. Kubicz, M. Mohammed, Sz. Niedźwiecki, M. Pałka, M. Pawlik-Niedźwiecka, L. Raczyński, J. Raj, S. Sharma, Shivani, R.Y. Shopa, M. Silarski, M. Skurzok, E. Stępień, W. Wiślicki, B. ZgardzińskaA detection system of the conventional PET tomograph is set-up to record data from e+ e- annihilation into two photons with energy of 511 keV, and it gives information on the density distribution of a radiopharmaceutical in the body of the object. In this paper we explore the possibility of performing the three gamma photons imaging based on ortho- positronium annihilation, as well as the possibility of positronium average lifetime imaging with the J-PET tomograph constructed from plastic scintillators. For this purposes simulations of the ortho-positronium formation and its annihilation into three photons were performed taking into account distributions of photons' momenta as predicted by the theory of quantum electrodynamics and the response of the J-PET tomograph. In order to test the proposed ortho-positronium lifetime image reconstruction method, we concentrate on the decay of the ortho-positronium into three photons and applications of radiopharmaceuticals labeled with isotopes emitting a prompt gamma quantum. The proposed method of imaging is based on the determination of hit-times and hit-positions of registered photons which enables the reconstruction of the time and position of the annihilation point as well as the lifetime of the ortho-positronium on an event-by-event basis. We have simulated the production of the positronium in a cylindrical phantom composed of a set of different materials in which the ortho-positronium lifetime varied from 2 ns to ~2.9 ns, as expected for ortho-positronium created in the human body. The presented reconstruction method for total-body J-PET like detector allows to achieve a mean lifetime resolution of about 40 ps. Recent Positron Annihilation Lifetime Spectroscopy measurements of cancerous and healthy uterine tissues show that this sensitivity may allow to study the morphological changes in cell structures.
- Monte Carlo N-Particle simulations of an underwater chemical threats detection system using neutron activation analysisP. Sibczyński, M. Silarski, O. Bezshyyko, V. Ivanyan, E. Kubicz, Sz. Niedźwiecki, P. Moskal, J. Raj, S. Sharma and O. TrofimiukIn this paper, we present Monte Carlo N-Particle (MCNP) simulations of the system for underwater threat detection using neutron activation analysis developed in the SABAT project. The simulated system is based on a D-T neutron generator emitting 14 MeV neutrons without associated alpha particle detection and equipped with a LaBr3:Ce scintillation detector offering superior energy resolution and allowing for precise identification of activation gamma quanta. The performed simulations show that using the neutron activation analysis method with the designed geometry we are able to identify gamma-rays from hydrogen, carbon, sulphur and chlorine originating from mustard gas in a seawater environment. Our results show that the most efficient way of mustard gas detection is to compare the integral peak ratio for Cl and H.
- Simulation studies of annihilation-photon's polarisation via Compton scattering with the J-PET tomographN. Krawczyk, B.C. Hiesmayr, J. Chhokar, C. Curceanu, E. Czerwiński, K. Dulski, A. Gajos, M. Gorgol, N. Gupta-Sharma, B. Jasińska, D. Kisielewska, G. Korcyl, P. Kowalski, W. Krzemień, T. Kozik, E. Kubicz, M. Mohammed, Sz. Niedźwiecki, M. Pałka, M. Pawlik-Niedźwiecka, L. Raczyński, J. Raj, K. Rakoczy, Z. Rudy, S. Sharma, Shivani, R.Y. Shopa, M. Silarski, M. Skurzok, W. Wiślicki, B. Zgardzińska, M. Zieliński, P. MoskalJ-PET is the first positron-emission tomograph (PET) constructed from plastic scintillators. It was optimized for the detection of photons from electron-positron annihilation. Such photons, having an energy of 511 keV, interact with electrons in plastic scintillators predominantly via the Compton effect. Compton scattering is at most probable at an angle orthogonal to the electric field vector of the interacting photon. Thus registration of multiple photon scatterings with J-PET enables to determine the polarization of the annihilation photons. In this contribution we present estimates on the physical limitation in the accuracy of the polarization determination of 511 keV photons with the J-PET detector.
- X-ray Detectors for Kaonic Atoms Research at DAFNEC. Curceanu, A. Amirkhani, A. Baniahmad , M. Bazzi, G. Bellotti, C. Berucci, D. Bosnar, M. Bragadireanu, M. Cargnelli, A. Clozza, R. Del Grande, C. Fiorini, F. Ghio, C. Guaraldo, M. Iliescu, M. Iwasaki, P. Levi Sandri, J. Marton, M. Miliucci , P. Moskal, S. Niedźwiecki, S. Okada, D. Pietreanu, K. Piscicchia, A. Scordo, H. Shi, M. Silarski, D. Sirghi, F. Sirghi, M. Skurzok, A. Spallone, H. Tatsuno, O. Vazquez Doce, E. Widmann and J. ZmeskalThis article presents the kaonic atom studies performed at the INFN National Laboratory of Frascati (Laboratori Nazionali di Frascati dell'INFN, LNF-INFN) since the opening of this field of research at the DAFNE collider in early 2000. Significant achievements have been obtained by the DAFNE Exotic Atom Research (DEAR) and Silicon Drift Detector for Hadronic Atom Research by Timing Applications (SIDDHARTA) experiments on kaonic hydrogen, which have required the development of novel X-ray detectors. The 2019 installation of the new SIDDHARTA-2 experiment to measure kaonic deuterium for the first time has been made possible by further technological advances in X-ray detection
- K- multi-nucleon absorption cross sections and branching ratios in Lambda p and Sigma0 p final statesR. Del Grande, K. Piscicchia, O. Vazquez Doce, M. Cargnelli, C. Curceanu, L. Fabbietti, J. Marton, P. Moskal, A. Ramos, A. Scordo, D. L. Sirghi, M. Skurzok, S. Wycech, J. Zmeskal, E. Czerwiński, V. De Leo, P. Fermani, G. Mandaglio, M. Martini, N. Raha, A. Selce, M. SilarskiThe determination of low-energy cross sections and branching ratios of the K- multi-nucleon absorption processes in Lambda p and Sigma0 p final states performed by the AMADEUS collaboration is presented. Low momentum K- (pK- ~127 MeV/c) produced at the DAFNE collider are impinged on a Carbon target within the KLOE detector and the two and three nucleon absorption processes are disentangled by comparing the experimental data to phenomenological calculations. The Lambda p spectra entirely interpreted in terms of K- multi-nucleon absorption processes; the possible contribution of a K-pp bound state is demonstrated to overlap with the two nucleon capture process, its absolute yield thus resulting indistinguishable.
- Feasibility studies of the polarization of photons beyond the optical wavelength regime with the J-PET detectorP. Moskal, N. Krawczyk, B. C. Hiesmayr, M. Bała, C. Curceanu, E. Czerwinski, K. Dulski, A. Gajos, M. Gorgol, R. Del Grande, B. Jasinska, K. Kacprzak, L. Kapłon, D. Kisielewska, K. Klimaszewski, G. Korcyl, P. Kowalski, T. Kozik, W. Krzemien, E. Kubicz, M. Mohammed, Sz. Niedźwiecki, M. Pałka, M. Pawlik-Niedźwiecka, L. Raczynski, J. Raj, Z. Rudy, S. Sharma, M. Silarski, Shivani, R. Y. Shopa, M. Skurzok, W. Wislicki, B. ZgardzinskaJ-PET is a detector optimized for registration of photons from the electron-positron annihilation via plastic scintillators where photons interact predominantly via Compton scattering. Registration of both primary and scattered photons enables to determinate the linear polarization of the primary photon on the event by event basis with a certain probability. Here we present quantitative results on the feasibility of such polarization measurements of photons from the decay of positronium with the J-PET and explore the physical limitations for the resolution of the polarization determination of 511keV photons via Compton scattering. For scattering angles of about 82 degree (where the best contrast for polarization measurement is theoretically predicted) we find that the single event resolution for the determination of the polarization is about 40 degree (predominantly due to properties of the Compton effect). However, for samples larger than ten thousand events the J-PET is capable of determining relative average polarization of these photons with the precision of about few degrees. The obtained results open new perspectives for studies of various physics phenomena such as quantum entanglement and tests of discrete symmetries in decays of positronium and extend the energy range of polarization measurements by five orders of magnitude beyond the optical wavelength regime.
- Evaluation of Single-Chip, Real-Time Tomographic Data Processing on FPGA - SoC DevicesG. Korcyl, P. Białas, C. Curceanu, E. Czerwiński, K. Dulski, B. Flak, A. Gajos, B. Głowacz, M. Gorgol, B. C. Hiesmayr, B. Jasińska, K. Kacprzak, M. Kajetanowicz, D. Kisielewska, P. Kowalski, T. Kozik, N. Krawczyk, W. Krzemień, E. Kubicz, M. Mohammed, Sz. Niedźwiecki, M. Pawlik- Niedźwiecka, M. Pałka, L. Raczyński, P. Rajda, Z. Rudy, P. Salabura, N. G. Sharma, S. Sharma, R. Y. Shopa, M. Skurzok, M. Silarski, P. Strzempek, A. Wieczorek, W. Wiślicki, R. Zaleski, B. Zgardzińska, M. Zieliński, P. MoskalA novel approach to tomographic data processing has been developed and evaluated using the Jagiellonian PET (J- PET) scanner as an example. We propose a system in which there is no need for powerful, local to the scanner processing facility, capable to reconstruct images on the fly. Instead we introduce a Field Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) System-on-Chip (SoC) platform connected directly to data streams coming from the scanner, which can perform event building, filtering, coincidence search and Region-Of-Response (ROR) reconstruction by the programmable logic and visualization by the integrated processors. The platform significantly reduces data volume converting raw data to a list-mode representation, while generating visualization on the fly.
- A feasibility study of the time reversal violation test based on polarization of annihilation photons from the decay of ortho-Positronium with the J-PET detectorJ. Raj, A. Gajos, C. Curceanu, E. Czerwiński, K. Dulski, M. Gorgol, N. Gupta-Sharma, B. C. Hiesmayr, B. Jasińska, K. Kacprzak, Ł. Kapłon, D. Kisielewska, K. Klimaszewski, G. Korcyl, P. Kowalski, T. Kozik, N. Krawczyk, W. Krzemień, E. Kubicz, M. Mohammed, Sz. Niedźwiecki, M. Pałka, M. Pawlik-Niedźwiecka, L. Raczyński, K. Rakoczy, Z. Rudy, S. Sharma, Shivani, R.Y. Shopa, M. Silarski, M. Skurzok, W. Wiślicki, B. Zgardzińska, P. MoskalThe Jagiellonian Positron Emission Tomograph (J-PET) is a novel device being developed at Jagiellonian University in Krakow, Poland based on organic scintillators. J-PET is an axially symmetric and high acceptance scanner that can be used as a multi-purpose detector system. It is well suited to pursue tests of discrete symmetries in decays of positronium in addition to medical imaging. J-PET enables the measurement of both momenta and the polarization vectors of annihilation photons. The latter is a unique feature of the J-PET detector which allows the study of time reversal symmetry violation operator which can be constructed solely from the annihilation photons momenta before and after the scattering in the detector.
- Commissioning of the J-PET detector in view of the positron annihilation lifetime spectroscopyK. Dulski, C. Curceanu, E. Czerwiński, A. Gajos, M. Gorgol, N. Gupta-Sharma, B. C. Hiesmayr, B. Jasińska, K. Kacprzak, Ł. Kapłon, D. Kisielewska, K. Klimaszewski, G. Korcyl, P. Kowalski, N. Krawczyk, W. Krzemień, T. Kozik, E. Kubicz, M. Mohammed, Sz. Niedźwiecki, M. Pałka, M. Pawlik-Niedźwiecka, L. Raczyński, J. Raj, K. Rakoczy, Z. Rudy, S. Sharma, Shivani, R. Y. Shopa, M. Silarski, M. Skurzok, W. Wiślicki, B. Zgardzińska, P. MoskalThe Jagiellonian Positron Emission Tomograph (J-PET) is the first PET device built from plastic scintillators. It is a multi-purpose detector designed for medical imaging and for studies of properties of positronium atoms in porous matter and in living organisms. In this article we report on the commissioning of the J-PET detector in view of studies of positronium decays. We present results of analysis of the positron lifetime measured in the porous polymer. The obtained results prove that J-PET is capable of performing simultaneous imaging of the density distribution of annihilation points as well as positron annihilation lifetime spectroscopy.
- Measurement of the charge asymmetry for the KS->pi e nu decay and test of CPT symmetry with the KLOE detectorThe KLOE-2 collaboration: A. Anastasi, E. Czerwiński, A. Gajos, D. Kisielewska-Kamińska, W. Krzemień, P. Moskal, M. Silarski, W. Wiślicki, et al.Using 1.63 fb^(-1) of integrated luminosity collected by the KLOE experiment about 7 10^4 KS->pi e nu decays have been reconstructed. The measured value of the charge asymmetry for this decay is AS=(-4.9 pm 5.7_{stat} pm 2.6_{syst}) 10^(-3), which is almost twice more precise than the previous KLOE result. The combination of these two measurements gives AS=(-3.8 pm 5.0_{stat} pm 2.6_{syst}) 10^(-3) and, together with the asymmetry of the KL semileptonic decay, provides significant tests of the CPT symmetry. The obtained results are in agreement with CPT invariance.
- Feasibility study of the time reversal symmetry tests in decay of metastable positronium atoms with the J-PET detectorA. Gajos, C. Curceanu, E. Czerwinski, K. Dulski, M. Gorgol, N. Gupta-Sharma, B.C. Hiesmayr, B. Jasinska, K. Kacprzak, L. Kaplon, D. Kisielewska, G. Korcyl, P. Kowalski, T. Kozik, W. Krzemien, E. Kubicz, M. Mohammed, Sz Niedzwiecki, M. Paalka, M. Pawlik-Niedzwiecka, L. Raczynski, J. Raj, Z. Rudy, S. Sharma, Shivani, R. Shopa, M. Silarski, M. Skurzok, W. Wislicki, B. Zgardzinska, M. Zielinski, P. MoskalThis article reports on the feasibility of testing of the symmetry under reversal in time in a purely leptonic system constituted by positronium atoms using the J-PET detector. The present state of T symmetry tests is discussed with an emphasis on the scarcely explored sector of leptonic systems. Two possible strategies of searching for manifestations of T violation in non-vanishing angular correlations of final state observables in the decays of metastable triplet states of positronium available with J-PET are proposed and discussed. Results of a pilot measurement with J-PET and assessment of its performance in reconstruction of three-photon decays are shown along with an analysis of its impact on the sensitivity of the detector for the determination of T -violation sensitive observables.
- Strong interaction between kaons in the reactions e+e- -> K+K- gamma and e+ e- ->K0K0gammaL. Leśniak, F. Sobczuk, M. Silarski, and F. MorawskiA theoretical model of the reactions e+e- -> K+K-gamma and e+e- -> K0K0gamma has been derived. The strong interaction between kaons is taken into account using a general form of the KK scattering amplitude. It is shown that some models formulated in the past are particular cases of the present approach. The formulas for the K+K- effective mass dependence of the differential cross section as well as for the angular kaon and photon distributions and for the branching fractions of the phi(1020) -> K-K+gamma and phi(1020) -> K0K0-gamma decays have been obtained. We present numerical results for the functions entering into transition amplitudes, KK? effective mass distributions, total cross sections, and branching fractions. Finally, the model is generalized to treat other reactions with two pseudoscalar mesons accompanying a photon in the final state.
- Combined limit on the production of a light gauge boson decaying into mu+ mu- and pi+pi-The KLOE-2 collaboration: A. Anastasi, E. Czerwiński, A. Gajos, D. Kisielewska-Kamińska, W. Krzemień, P. Moskal, M. Silarski, W. Wiślicki, et al.We searched for the decay of a light vector gauge boson, also known as dark photon, in the process by means of the Initial State Radiation (ISR) method. We used 1.93 fb^-1 of data collected by the KLOE experiment at the DAFNE phi-factory. No structures have been observed over the irreducible background. A 90% CL limit on the ratio between the dark coupling constant and the fine structure constant of has been set in the dark photon mass region between 519 MeV and 973 MeV. This new limit has been combined with the published result obtained investigating the hypothesis of the dark photon decaying into hadrons in events. The combined 90% CL limit increases the sensitivity especially in the rho-omega interference region and excludes greater than . For dark photon masses greater than 600 MeV the combined limit is lower than 8 resulting more stringent than present constraints from other experiments.
- Estimating the NEMA characteristics of the J-PET tomograph using the GATE packageP. Kowalski, W. Wiślicki, R.Y. Shopa, L. Raczyński, K. Klimaszewski, C. Curcenau, E. Czerwiński, K. Dulski, A. Gajos, M. Gorgol, N. Gupta-Sharma, B. Hiesmayr, B. Jasińska, Ł. Kapłon, D. Kisielewska-Kamińska, G. Korcyl, T. Kozik, W. Krzemień, E. Kubicz, M. Mohammed, S. Niedźwiecki, M. Pałka, M. Pawlik-Niedźwiecka, J. Raj, K. Rakoczy, Z. Rudy, S. Sharma, S. Shivani, M. Silarski, M. Skurzok, B. Zgardzińska, M. Zieliński, P. MoskalA novel whole-body positron emission tomography (PET) system based on plastic scintillators is developed by the J-PET Collaboration. It consists of plastic scintillator strips arranged axially in the form of a cylinder, allowing the cost-effective construction of the total-body PET system. In order to determine the properties of the scanner prototype and optimize its geometry, advanced computer simulations were performed using the GATE (Geant4 application for tomographic emission) software. The spatial resolution, sensitivity, scatter fraction and noise equivalent count rate were estimated according to the National Electrical Manufacturers Association norm, as a function of the length of the tomograph, the number of detection layers, the diameter of the tomographic chamber and for various types of applied readout. For the single-layer geometry with a diameter of 85 cm, a strip length of 100 cm, a cross-section of 4 mm × 20 mm and silicon photomultipliers with an additional layer of wavelength shifter as the readout, the spatial resolution (full width at half maximum) in the centre of the scanner is equal to 3 mm (radial, tangential) and 6 mm (axial). For the analogous double-layer geometry with the same readout, diameter and scintillator length, with a strip crosssection of 7 mm × 20 mm, a noise equivalent count rate peak of 300 kcps was reached at 40 kBq cc?1 activity concentration, the scatter fraction is estimated to be about 35% and the sensitivity at the centre amounts to 14.9 cps kBq?1. Sensitivity profiles were also determined.
- First measurement of the K-n->Lambda pi- non-resonant transition amplitude below thresholdK. Piscicchia, S. Wycech, L. Fabbietti, M. Cargnelli, C. Curceanu, R. Del Grande, J. Marton, P. Moskal, A. Scordo, M. Silarski, D. Sirghi, M. Skurzok, I. Tucakovic, O. Vazquez Doce, J. Zmeskal, P. Branchini, E. Czerwinski, V. De Leo, E. De Lucia, A. Di Cicco, P. Fermani, S. Fiore, W. Krzemien, G. Mandaglio, M. Martini, E. Perez del Rio , A. SelceWe present the analysis of K- absorption processes on 4He leading to Lambda pi- final states, measured with the KLOE e+e- spectrometer at the DAFNE collider and extract, for the first time, the modulus of the non-resonant K-n->Lambda pi- direct production amplitude about 33 MeV below the KbarN threshold. This analysis also allows to disentangle the K- nuclear absorption at-rest from the in-flight capture, for K- momenta of about 120 MeV. The data are interpreted with the help of a phenomenological model, and the modulus of the non-resonant K-n->Lambda pi- amplitude for K- absorption at-rest is found to be |A_K-n->Lambda pi-| = (0.334+-0.018(stat.)+0.034 -0.058 (syst.)) fm.
- Combination of KLOE sigma(e^+e^- e -> pi^+pi^-g(g)) measurements and determination of a_{mu)^{pi^+pi^-} in the energy range 0.10 < s < 0.95 GeV^2The KLOE-2 collaboration: A. Anastasi, E. Czerwiński, A. Gajos, D. Kisielewska-Kamińska, W. Krzemień, P. Moskal, M. Silarski, W. Wiślicki, et al.The three precision measurements of the cross section sigma(e^+e^- e -> pi^+pi^-g(g)) using initial state radiation by the KLOE collaboration provide an important input for the prediction of the hadronic contribution to the anomalous magnetic moment of the muon. These measurements are correlated for both statistical and systematic uncertainties and, therefore, the simultaneous use of these measurements requires covariance matrices that fully describe the correlations. We present the construction of these covariance matrices and use them to determine a combined KLOE measurement for sigma(e^+e^- e -> pi^+pi^-g(g)). We find, from this combination, a two-pion contribution to the muon magnetic anomaly in the energy range 0.10 < s < 0.95 GeV^2 of a_{mu)^{pi^+pi^-} = (489.8 pm 1.7 stat pm 4.8 sys ) 10^(-10) .
- Search for Deeply Bound Kaonic Nuclear States in AMADEUS experimentM. Skurzok, M. Cargnelli, C. Curceanu, R. Del Grande, L. Fabbietti, C. Guaraldo, J. Marton, P. Moskal, K. Piscicchia, A. Scordo, M. Silarski, D. L. Sirghi, I. Tucakovic, O. Vazquez Doce, S. Wycech, E. Widmann, J. ZmeskalWe briefly report on the search for Deeply Bound Kaonic Nuclear States with AMADEUS in the Sigma0 p channel and future perspectives.
- A Method to Produce Linearly Polarized Positrons and Positronium Atoms with the J-PET DetectorM. Mohammed, P. Białas, C. Curceanu, E. Czerwiński, K. Dulski, A. Gajos, B. Głowacz, M. Gorgol, B.C. Hiesmayr, B. Jasińska, D. Kisielewska, G. Korcyl, P. Kowalski, T. Kozik, N. Krawczyk, W. Krzemień, E. Kubicz, M. Pawlik-Niedźwiecka, S. Niedźwiecki, M. Pałka, L. Raczyński, J. Raj, Z. Rudy, N.G. Sharma, S. Sharma, Shivani, M. Skurzok, M. Silarski, A. Wieczorek, W. Wiślicki, B. Zgardzińska, M. Zieliński, P. MoskalA method for creating linearly polarized positrons and ortho-positronium (o-Ps) atoms with the J-PET detector is presented. The unique geometry and properties of the J-PET tomography enable one to design a positron source such that the quantization axis for the estimation of the linear polarization of produced o-Ps can be determined on the event by event basis in a direction of the positron motion. We intend to use 22Na or other beta+ decay isotopes as a source of polarized positrons. Due to the parity violation in the beta decay, the emitted positrons are longitudinally polarized. The choice of the quantization axis is based on the known position of the positron emitter and the reconstructed position of the positronium annihilation. We show that the J-PET tomography is equipped with all needed components.
- Human Tissue Investigations Using PALS Technique - Free Radicals InfluenceB. Jasińska, B. Zgardzińska, G. Chołubek, M. Pietrow, M. Gorgol, K. Wiktor, K. Wysogląd, P. Białas, C. Curceanu, E. Czerwiński, K. Dulski, A. Gajos, B. Głowacz, B.C. Hiesmayr, B. Jodłowska-Jędrych, D. Kamińska, G. Korcyl, P. Kowalski, T. Kozik, N. Krawczyk, W. Krzemień, E. Kubicz, M. Mohammed, M. Pawlik-Niedźwiecka, S. Niedźwiecki, M. Pałka, L. Raczyński, Z. Rudy, N.G. Sharma, S. Sharma, R. Shopa, M. Silarski, M. Skurzok, A. Wieczorek, H. Wiktor, W. Wiślicki, M. Zieliński, P. MoskalThe positron annihilation lifetime spectroscopy was applied to the samples of the human uterine leiomyomas and the normal myometrium tissues taken from the selected place of the uterus during a surgery. The method indicated differences in values of the measured positron annihilation lifetime spectroscopy parameters (lifetimes and intensities) between healthy and diseased tissue samples. The additional measurements were performed either in darkness or in presence of visible light which influenced the free radicals present in both kind of tissues and, as a result, made changes in free annihilation and o-Ps decay lifetime and intensity values.
- Preliminary Studies of J-PET Detector Spatial ResolutionM. Pawlik-Niedźwiecka, S. Niedźwiecki, D. Alfs, P. Białas, C. Curceanu, E. Czerwiński, K. Dulski, A. Gajos, B. Głowacz, M. Gorgol, B. C. Hiesmayr, B. Jasińska, D. Kisielewska, G. Korcyl, P. Kowalski, T. Kozik, N. Krawczyk, W. Krzemień, E. Kubicz, M. Mohammed, M. Pałka, L. Raczyński, J. Raj, Z. Rudy, Shivani, M. Silarski, M. Skurzok, N.G. Sharma, S. Sharma, R.Y. Shopa, A. Strzelecki, A. Wieczorek, W. Wiślicki, B. Zgardzińska, M. Zieliński, P. MoskalThe J-PET detector, based on long plastic scintillator strips, was recently constructed at the Jagiellonian University. It consists of 192 modules axially arranged into three layers, read out from both sides by digital constant-threshold front-end electronics. This work presents preliminary results of measurements of the spatial resolution of the J-PET tomograph performed with 22Na source placed at selected position inside the detector chamber.
- Underwater detection of dangerous substances: status of the SABAT projectM. Silarski, P. Sibczyński, Sz. Niedźwiecki, S. Sharma, J. Raj, P. MoskalThe Neutron Activation Analysis (NAA) plays an exceptional role in the modern nuclear engineering, especially in detection of hazardous substances. However, in the aquatic environment, there are still many problems to be solved for effective usage of this technique. We present the status of SABAT (Stoichiometry Analysis By Activation Techniques), one of the projects aiming at the construction of an underwater device for non-invasive threat detection based on the NAA.
- Analysis procedure of the positronium lifetime spectra for the J-PET detectorK. Dulski , B. Zgardzińska , P. Białas , C. Curceanu E. Czerwiński , A. Gajos , B. Głowacz , M. Gorgol , B. C. Hiesmayr , B. Jasińska , D. Kisielewska-Kamińska , G. Korcyl , P. Kowalski , T. Kozik , N. Krawczyk , W. Krzemień , E. Kubicz , M. Mohammed , M. Pawlik-Niedźwiecka, S. Niedźwiecki , M. Pałka , L. Raczyński , J. Raj , Z. Rudy , N. G. Sharma, S. Sharma, Shivani, R. Y. Shopa, M. Silarski , M. Skurzok , A. Wieczorek , W. Wiślicki , M. Zieliński , P. MoskalPositron Annihilation Lifetime Spectroscopy (PALS) has shown to be a powerful tool to study the nanostructures of porous materials. Positron Emissions Tomography (PET) are devices allowing imaging of metabolic processes e.g. in human bodies. A newly developed device, the J-PET (Jagiellonian PET), will allow PALS in addition to imaging, thus combining both analyses providing new methods for physics and medicine. In this contribution we present a computer program that is compatible with the J-PET software. We compare its performance with the standard program LT 9.0 by using PALS data from hexane measurements at different temperatures. Our program is based on an iterative procedure, and our fits prove that it performs as good as LT 9.0.
- Introduction of total variation regularization into filtered backprojection algorithmL. Raczyński, W. Wiślicki, K. Klimaszewski, W. Krzemień, P. Kowalski, R. Shopa, P. Białas, C. Curceanu, E. Czerwiński, K. Dulski A. Gajos, B. Głowacz, M. Gorgol, B. Hiesmayr, B. Jasińska, D. Kisielewska-Kamińska, G. Korcyl, T. Kozik, N. Krawczyk, E. Kubicz, M. Mohammed, M. Pawlik-Niedźwiecka, S. Niedźwiecki, M. Pałka, Z. Rudy, N.G. Sharma, S. Sharma, M. Silarski, M. Skurzok, A. Wieczorek, B. Zgardzińska, M. Zieliński, P. MoskalIn this paper we extend the state-of-the-art filtered backprojection (FBP) method with application of the concept of Total Variation regularization. We compare the performance of the new algorithm with the most common form of regularizing in the FBP image reconstruction via apodizing functions. The methods are validated in terms of cross-correlation coefficient between reconstructed and real image of radioactive tracer distribution using standard Derenzo-type phantom. We demonstrate that the proposed approach results in higher cross-correlation values with respect to the standard FBP method.
- Time calibration of the J-PET detectorM. Skurzok, M. Silarski, D. Alfs, P. Bialas, Shivani, C. Curceanu , E. Czerwinski , K. Dulski , A. Gajos, B. G lowacz , M. Gorgol, B. C. Hiesmayr, B. Jasinska, D. Kisielewska, G. Korcyl, P. Kowalski, T. Kozik , N. Krawczyk, W. Krzemien, E. Kubicz , M. Mohammed, M. Pawlik-Niedzwiecka, S. Niedzwiecki, M. Palka, L. Raczynski , J. Raj, Z. Rudy, N. G. Sharma, S. Sharma , R. Y. Shopa , A. Wieczorek, W. Wislicki , B. Zgardzinska, M. Zielinski, P. MoskalThe Jagiellonian Positron Emission Tomograph (J-PET) project carried out in the Institute of Physics of the Jagiellonian University is focused on construction and tests of the first prototype of PET scanner for medical diagnostic which allows for the simultaneous 3D imaging of the whole human body using organic scintillators. The J-PET prototype consists of 192 scintillator strips forming three cylindrical layers which are optimized for the detection of photons from the electron-positron annihilation with high time- and high angular-resolutions. In this article we present time calibration and synchronization of the whole J-PET detection system by irradiating each single detection module with a 22Na source and a small detector providing common reference time for synchronization of all the modules.
- Novel scintillating material 2-(4-styrylphenyl)benzoxazole for the fully digital and MRI compatible J-PET tomograph based on plastic scintillatorsA. Wieczorek, K. Dulski, Sz. Niedźwiecki, D. Alfs, P. Białas, C. Curceanu, E. Czerwiński, A. Danel, A. Gajos, B. Głowacz, M. Gorgol, B. Hiesmayr, B. Jasińska, K. Kacprzak, D. Kamińska, Ł. Kapłon, A. Kochanowski, G. Korcyl, P. Kowalski, T. Kozik, W. Krzemień, E. Kubicz, M. Kucharek, M. Mohammed, M. Pawlik-Niedźwiecka, M. Pałka, L. Raczyński, Z. Rudy, O. Rundel, N. G. Sharma, M. Silarski, T. Uchacz, W. Wiślicki, B. Zgardzińska, M. Zieliński, P. MoskalA novel plastic scintillator is developed for the application in the digital positron emission tomography (PET). The novelty of the concept lies in application of the 2-(4-styrylphenyl) benzoxazole as a wavelength shifter. The substance has not been used as scintillator dop- ant before. A dopant shifts the scintillation spectrum towards longer wavelengths making it more suitable for applications in scintillators of long strips geometry and light detection with digital silicon photomultipliers. These features open perspectives for the construction of the cost-effective and MRI-compatib le PET scanner with the large field of view. In this article we present the synthesis method and characterize performance of the elaborated scintillator by determining its light emission spectrum, light emission efficiency, rising and decay time of the scintillation pulses and resulting timing resolution when applied in the positron emission tomography. The optimal concentratio n of the novel wavelength shifter was established by maximizing the light output and it was found to be 0.05 ? for cuboidal scintillator with dimen- sions of 14 mm x 14 mm x 20 mm.
- Low-energy Antikaon-Nucleon/Nuclei Interaction Studies by AMADEUSK. Piscicchia, M. Cargnelli, C. Curceanu, R. Del Grande, L. Fabbietti, C. Guaraldo, J. Marton, P. Moskal, A. Scordo, M. Silarski, D. Sirghi, M. Skurzok, I. Tucakovic, O. Vazquez Doce, S. Wycech, E. Widmann, J. ZmeskalThe AMADEUS experiment deals with the investigation of the low-energy kaon?nuclei hadronic interaction at the DA?NE collider at LNF-INFN, which is fundamental to solve longstanding questions in the non-perturbative strangeness QCD sector. AMADEUS step 0 consisted in the reanalysis of the 2004/2005 KLOE data, exploiting K- absorptions in H, 4He, 9Be and 12C, leading to the first invariant mass spectroscopy study with very low-momentum (100 MeV) in-flight K? captures. With AMADEUS step 1, a dedicated pure carbon target was implemented in the central region of the KLOE detector, providing a high statistic sample of pure at-rest K? nuclear interaction. The results obtained in the analyses of the hyperon?pion correlated events, searching for the resonant shapes of Y states, will be described.
- Commissioning of the J-PET Detector for Studies of Decays of Positronium AtomsE. Czerwiński, K. Dulski, P. Białas, C. Curceanu, A. Gajos, B. Głowacz, M. Gorgol, B.C. Hiesmayr, B. Jasińska, D. Kisielewska, G. Korcyl, P. Kowalski, T. Kozik, N. Krawczyk, W. Krzemień, E. Kubicz, M. Mohammed, Sz. Niedźwiecki, M. Pałka, M. Pawlik-Niedźwiecka, L. Raczyński, Z. Rudy, N.G. Sharma, S. Sharma, R.Y. Shopa, M. Silarski, M. Skurzok, A. Wieczorek, W. Wiślicki, B. Zgardzińska, M. Zieliński, P. MoskalThe Jagiellonian Positron Emission Tomograph (J-PET) is a detector for medical imaging of the whole human body as well as for physics studies involving detection of electron?positron annihilation into photons. J-PET has high angular and time resolution, and allows for measurement of spin of the positronium and the momenta and polarization vectors of annihilation quanta. In this article, we present the potential of the J-PET system for the background rejection in the decays of positronium atoms.
- J-PET: A New Technology for the Whole-body PET ImagingS. Niedźwiecki, P. Białas, C. Curceanu, E. Czerwiński, K. Dulski, A. Gajos, B. Głowacz, M. Gorgol, B.C. Hiesmayr, B. Jasińska, Ł. Kapłon, D. Kisielewska-Kamińska, G. Korcyl, P. Kowalski, T. Kozik, N. Krawczyk, W. Krzemień, E. Kubicz, M. Mohammed, M. Pawlik-Niedźwiecka, M. Pałka, L. Raczyński, Z. Rudy, N.G. Sharma, S. Sharma, R.Y. Shopa, M. Silarski, M. Skurzok, A. Wieczorek, W. Wiślicki, B. Zgardzińska, M. Zieliński, P. MoskalThe Jagiellonian Positron Emission Tomograph (J-PET) is the first PET built from plastic scintillators. J-PET prototype consists of 192 detection modules arranged axially in three layers forming a cylindrical diagnostic chamber with the inner diameter of 85 cm and the axial field-of-view of 50 cm. An axial arrangement of long strips of plastic scintillators, their small light attenuation, superior timing properties, and relative ease of the increase of the axial field-of-view opens promising perspectives for the cost effective construction of the whole-body PET scanner, as well as construction of MR and CT compatible PET inserts. Present status of the development of the J-PET tomograph will be presented and discussed.
- Three-dimensional Image Reconstruction in J-PET Using Filtered Back-projection MethodR.Y. Shopa, K. Klimaszewski, P. Kowalski, W. Krzemień, L. Raczyński, W. Wiślicki, P. Białas, C. Curceanu, E. Czerwiński, K. Dulski, A. Gajos, B. Głowacz, M. Gorgol, B. Hiesmayr, B. Jasińska, D. Kisielewska-Kamińska, G. Korcyl, T. Kozik, N. Krawczyk, E. Kubicz, M. Mohammed, M. Pawlik-Niedźwiecka, S. Niedźwiecki, M. Pałka, Z. Rudy, N.G. Sharma, S. Sharma, M. Silarski, M. Skurzok, A. Wieczorek, B. Zgardzińska, M. Zieliński, P. MoskalWe present a method and preliminary results of the image reconstruction in the Jagiellonian PET tomograph. Using GATE (Geant4 Application for Tomographic Emission), interactions of the 511 keV photons with a cylindrical detector were generated. Pairs of such photons, flying back-to-back, originate from e+e? annihilations inside a 1 mm spherical source. Spatial and temporal coordinates of hits were smeared using experimental resolutions of the detector. We incorporated the algorithm of the 3D Filtered Back Projection, implemented in the STIR and TomoPy software packages, which differ in approximation methods. Consistent results for the Point Spread Functions of ? 5 ÷ 7 mm and ? 9 ÷ 20 mm were obtained, using STIR, for transverse and longitudinal directions, respectively, with no time-of-flight information included.
- Low-energy Kaon-Nuclei Interaction Studies at DAFNE: SIDDHARTA-2 and AMADEUSC. Curceanu, A. Amirkhani, M. Bazzi, G. Bellotti, C. Berucci, D. Bosnar, A.M. Bragadireanu, M. Cargnelli, A. Dawood Butt, R. Del Grande, L. Fabbietti, C. Fiorini, F. Ghio, C. Guaraldo, R.S. Hayano, M. Iliescu, M. Iwasaki, P. Levi Sandri, J. Marton, M. Miliucci, P. Moskal, D. Pietreanu, K. Piscicchia, A. Scordo, H. Shi, M. Silarski, D. Sirghi, F. Sirghi, M. Skurzok, H. Tatsuno, O. Vazquez Doce, E. Widmann, J. ZmeskalThe DAFNE electron?positron collider of the Laboratori Nazionali di Frascati of INFN has made available a unique quality low-energy negatively charged kaons ?beam?, which is being used to study the kaon?nucleon/nuclei interactions by the SIDDHARTA-2 experiment and the AMADEUS Collaboration. The dynamics of the strong interaction processes in the non-perturbative regime is approached by lattice calculations and effective field theories (ChPT) which are still lacking experimental results in the low-energy regime, fundamental for their good understanding. The studies of kaonic atoms and of the kaonic nuclear processes performed by SIDDHARTA-2 and AMADEUS play in this context a key-role.
- Human Tissues Investigation Using PALS TechniqueB. Jasińska, B. Zgardzińska, G. Chołubek, M. Gorgol, K. Wiktor, K. Wysogląd, P. Białas, C. Curceanu, E. Czerwiński, K. Dulski, A. Gajos, B. Głowacz, B. Hiesmayr, B. Jodłowska-Jędrych, D. Kamińska, G. Korcyl, P. Kowalski, T. Kozik, N. Krawczyk, W. Krzemień, E. Kubicz, M. Mohammed, M. Pawlik-Niedźwiecka, S. Niedźwiecki, M. Pałka, L. Raczyński, Z. Rudy, N.G. Sharma, S. Sharma, R. Shopa, M. Silarski, M. Skurzok, A. Wieczorek, H. Wiktor, W. Wiślicki, M. Zieliński, P. MoskalSamples of uterine leiomyomatis and normal tissues taken from patients after surgery were investigated using the Positron Annihilation Lifetime Spectroscopy (PALS). Significant differences in all PALS parameters between normal and diseased tissues were observed. For all studied patients, it was found that the values of the free annihilation and ortho-positronium lifetime are larger for the tumorous tissues than for the healthy ones. For most of the patients, the intensity of the free annihilation and ortho-positronium annihilation was smaller for the tumorous than for the healthy tissues. For the first time, in this kind of studies, the 3? fraction of positron annihilation was determined to describe changes in the tissue porosity during morphologic alteration.
- Human Tissues Investigation Using PALS TechniqueB. Jasińska, B. Zgardzińska, G. Chołubek, M. Gorgol, K. Wiktor, K. Wysogląd, P. Białas, C. Curceanu, E. Czerwiński, K. Dulski, A. Gajos, B. Głowacz, B.C. Hiesmayr, B. Jodłowska-Jędrych, D. Kamińska, G. Korcyl, P. Kowalski, T. Kozik, N. Krawczyk, W. Krzemień, E. Kubicz, M. Mohammed, M. Pawlik-Niedźwiecka, S. Niedźwiecki, M. Pałka, L. Raczyński, Z. Rudy, N.G. Sharma, S. Sharma, R. Shopa, M. Silarski, M. Skurzok, A. Wieczorek, H. Wiktor, W. Wiślicki, M. Zieliński, P. MoskalSamples of uterine leiomyomatis and normal tissues taken from patients after surgery were investigated using the Positron Annihilation Lifetime Spectroscopy (PALS). Significant differences in all PALS parameters between normal and diseased tissues were observed. For all studied patients, it was found that the values of the free annihilation and orthopositronium lifetime are larger for the tumorous tissues than for the healthy ones. For most of the patients, the intensity of the free annihilation and ortho-positronium annihilation was smaller for the tumorous than for the healthy tissues. For the first time, in this kind of studies, the 3gamma fraction of positron annihilation was determined to describe changes in the tissue porosity during morphologic alteration.
- Multichannel FPGA based MVT system for high precision time (20 ps RMS) and charge measurementM. Palka, P. Strzempek, G. Korcyl, T. Bednarski, S. Niedzwiecki, P. Bialas, E. Czerwinski, K. Dulski, A. Gajos, B. Glowacz, M. Gorgol, B. Jasinska, D. Kaminska, M. Kajetanowicz, P. Kowalski, T. Kozik, W. Krzemien, E. Kubicz, M. Mohhamed, L. Raczynski, Z. Rudy, O. Rundel, P. Salabura, NG. Sharma, M. Silarski, J. Smyrski, A. Strzelecki, A. Wieczorek, W. Wislicki, M. Zielinski, B. Zgardzinska, P. MoskalIn this article it is presented an FPGA based Multi-Voltage Threshold (MVT) system which allows of sampling fast signals (1-2 ns rising and falling edge) in both voltage and time domain. It is possible to achieve a precision of time measurement of 20 ps RMS and reconstruct charge of signals, using a simple approach, with deviation from real value smaller than 10%. Utilization of the differential inputs of an FPGA chip as comparators together with an implementation of a TDC inside an FPGA allowed us to achieve a compact multi-channel system characterized by low power consumption and low production costs. This paper describes realization and functioning of the system comprising 192-channel TDC board and a four mezzanine cards which split incoming signals and discriminate them. The boards have been used to validate a newly developed Time-of-Flight Positron Emission Tomography system based on plastic scintillators. The achieved full system time resolution of sigma (TOF) approximate to 68 ps is by factor of two better with respect to the current TOF-PET systems.
- Calculation of the time resolution of the J-PET tomograph using kernel density estimationL. Raczyński, W. Wiślicki, W. Krzemień, P. Kowalski, D. Alfs, T. Bednarski, P. Białas, C. Curceanu, E. Czerwiński, K. Dulski, A. Gajos, B. Głowacz, M. Gorgol, B. Hiesmayr, B. Jasińska, D. Kamińska, G. Korcyl, T. Kozik, N. Krawczyk, E. Kubicz, M. Mohammed, M. Pawlik-Niedźwiecka, S. Niedźwiecki, M. Pałka, Z. Rudy, O. Rundel, N. Gupta-Sharma, M. Silarski, J. Smyrski, A. Strzelecki, A. Wieczorek, B. Zgardzińska, M. Zieliński and P. MoskalIn this paper we estimate the time resolution of the J-PET scanner built from plastic scintillators. We incorporate the method of signal processing using the Tikhonov regularization framework and the kernel density estimation method. We obtain simple, closed-form analytical formulae for time resolution. The proposed method is validated using signals registered by means of the single detection unit of the J-PET tomograph built from a 30?cm long plastic scintillator strip. It is shown that the experimental and theoretical results obtained for the J-PET scanner equipped with vacuum tube photomultipliers are consistent.
- Measurement of gamma quantum interaction point in plastic scintillator with WLS stripsJ. Smyrski, D. Alfs, T. Bednarski, P. Białas, E. Czerwiński, K. Dulski, A. Gajos, B. Głowacz, N. Gupta-Sharma, M. Gorgol, B. Jasińska, M. Kajetanowicz, D. Kamińska, G. Korcyl, P. Kowalski, W. Krzemień, N. Krawczyk, E. Kubicz, M. Mohammed, Sz. Niedźwiecki, M. Pawlik-Niedźwiecka, L. Raczyński, Z. Rudy, P. Salabura, M. Silarski, A. Strzelecki, A. Wieczorek, W. Wiślicki, J. Wojnarska, B. Zgardzińska, M. Zieliński, P. MoskalThe feasibility of measuring the aśxial coordinate of a gamma quantum interaction point in a plastic scintillator bar via the detection of scintillation photons escaping from the scintillator with an array of wavelength-shifting (WLS) strips is demonstrated. Using a test set-up comprising a BC-420 scintillator bar and an array of sixteen BC-482A WLS strips we achieved a spatial resolution of 5 mm (?) for annihilation photons from a 22Na isotope. The studied method can be used to improve the spatial resolution of a plastic-scintillator-based PET scanner which is being developed by the J-PET collaboration.
- Measurement of the running of the fine structure constant below 1 GeV with the KLOE detectorKLOE-2 Collaboration: A. Anastasi, E. Czerwiński, A. Gajos, D. Kamińska, W. Krzemień, P. Moskal, M. Silarski, W. Wiślicki, et al.We have measured the running of the effective QED coupling constant alpha(s) in the time-like region 0.6J-PET: A Novel TOF -PET scanner using Organic ScintillatorsN.G. Sharma, M. Silarski, D. Alfs, T. Bednarski, P. Białas, E. Czerwiński, K. Dulski, A. Gajos, B. Głowacz, M. Gorgol, B. Jasińska, D. Kamińska, G. Korcyl, P. Kowalski, W. Krzemień, N. Krawczyk, E. Kubicz, M. Mohammed, Sz. Niedźwiecki, M. Pawlik-Niedźwiecka, L. Raczyński, Z. Rudy, O. Rundel, A. Wieczorek, W. Wislicki, M. Zieliński, B. Zgardzińska, P. MoskalPositron Emission Tomography (PET) is one of the most advanced nuclear medicine imaging techniques that have potential to identify many diseases (like cancers, heart diseases, neurological disorders and other abnormalities) in vivo in the earliest stages. However, production of PET modalities for covering the whole human body is economically unrealistic when applying the current technologies. In order to achieve a goal of more economical PET scanner with large geometrical acceptance and improved time resolution, the Jagiellonian Positron Emission Tomography (J-PET) Collaboration is realizing a new project aiming at construction of TOF-PET detector using plastic scintillators instead of crystals. Novelty of the J-PET scanner lies in: (i) application of plastic scintillators as well as in (ii) its front-end electronics which allows signal sampling in voltage domain, (iii) a trigger-less data acquisition system, and (iv) the new time and hit-position reconstruction methods. Moreover, the proposed solution enables to increase the axial field-of-view of the tomograph by extending the length of the plastic scintillator strips without changing the number of photomultipliers and electronic channels.A feasibility study of ortho-positronium decays measurement with the J-PET scanner based on plastic scintillatorsD. Kamińska, A. Gajos, E. Czerwiński, D. Alfs, T. Bednarski, P. Białas, C. Curceanu, K. Dulski, B. Głowacz, N. Gupta-Sharma, M. Gorgol, B. C. Hiesmayr, B. Jasińska, G. Korcyl, P. Kowalski, W. Krzemień, N. Krawczyk, E. Kubicz, M. Mohammed, Sz. Niedźwiecki, M. Pawlik-Niedźwiecka, L. Raczyński, Z. Rudy, M. Silarski, A. Wieczorek, W. Wiślicki, B. Zgardzińska, M. Zieliński, P. MoskalWe present a study of the application of the Jagiellonian Positron Emission Tomograph (J-PET) for the registration of gamma quanta from decays of ortho-positronium (o-Ps). The J-PET is the first positron emission tomography scanner based on organic scintillators in contrast to all current PET scanners based on inorganic crystals. Monte Carlo simulations show that the J-PET as an axially symmetric and high acceptance scanner can be used as a multi-purpose detector well suited to pursue research including e.g. tests of discrete symmetries in decays of ortho-positronium in addition to the medical imaging. The gamma quanta originating from o-Ps decay interact in the plastic scintillators predominantly via the Compton effect, making the direct measurement of their energy impossible. Nevertheless, it is shown in this paper that the J-PET scanner will enable studies of the o-Ps->3g decays with angular and energy resolution equal to sigma(theta) = 0.4^{circ} and sigma(E) = 4.1 keV, respectively. An order of magnitude shorter decay time of signals from plastic scintillators with respect to the inorganic crystals results not only in better timing properties crucial for the reduction of physical and instrumental background, but also suppresses significantly the pileups, thus enabling compensation of the lower efficiency of the plastic scintillators by performing measurements with higher positron source activities.Measurement of the phi -> pi(0)e(+)e(-) transition form factor with the KLOE detectorA. Anastasi, D. Babusci, G. Bencivenni, M. Berlowski, C. Bloise, F. Bossi, P. Branchini, A. Budano, LC. Balkestahl, B. Cao, F. Ceradini, P. Ciambrone, F. Curciarello, E. Czerwinski, G. D'Agostini, E. Dane, V. De Leo, E. De Lucia, A. De Santis, P. De Simone, A. Di Cicco, A. Di Domenico, R. Di Salvo, D. Domenici, A. D'Uffizi, A. Fantini, G. Felici, S. Fiore, A. Gajos, P. Gauzzi, G. Giardina, S. Giovannella, E. Graziani, F. Happacher, L. Heijkenskjold, WI. Andersson, T. Johansson, D. Kaminska, W. Krzemien, A. Kupsc, S. Loffredo, G. Mandaglio, M. Martini, M. Mascolo, R. Messi, S. Miscetti, G. Morello, D. Moricciani, P. Moskal, M. Papenbrock, A. Passeri, V. Patera, EP. del Rio, A. Ranieri, P. Salabura, P. Santangelo, I. Sarra, M. Schioppa, M. Silarski, F. Sirghi, L. Tortora, G. Venanzoni, W. Wislicki, M. WolkeA measurement of the vector to pseudoscalar conversion decay phi -> pi(0)e(+)e(-) with the KLOE experiment is presented. A sample of similar to 9500 signal events was selected from a data set of 1.7 fb(-1) of e(+)e(-) collisions at root s similar to m(phi) collected at the DA Phi NE e(+)e(-) collider. These events were used to perform the first measurement of the transition form factor vertical bar F(phi pi)0(q(2))vertical bar and a new measurement of the branching ratio of the decay: BR (phi -> pi(0)e(+)e(-)) = (1.35 +/- 0.05(-0.10)(+0.05)) x 10(-5). The result improves significantly on previous measurements and is in agreement with theoretical predictions. (C) 2016 The Authors. Published by Elsevier B.V. This is an open access article under the CC BY license (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/). Funded by SCOAP(3).Limit on the production of a new vector boson in e+e- -> Ug, U -> pi+pi- with the KLOE experimentKLOE-2 Collaboration: A. Anastasi, E. Czerwiński, A. Gajos, D. Kamińska, W. Krzemień, P. Moskal, M. Silarski, W. Wiślicki et al.The recent interest in a light gauge boson in the framework of an extra U(1) symmetry motivates searches in the mass range below 1 GeV. We present a search for such a particle, the dark photon, in e+e->Ug , U->pi+pi- based on 28 million e+e->pi+pi-g events collected at DAFNE by the KLOE experiment. The pi+pi- production by initial-state radiation compensates for a loss of sensitivity of previous KLOE U->e+e-, mu+mu- searches due to the small branching ratios in the rho-omega resonance region. We found no evidence for a signal and set a limit at 90% CL on the mixing strength between the photon and the dark photon, epsilon^2 , in the U mass range between 527 and 987MeV . Above 700 MeV this new limit is more stringent than previous ones.Determination of the 3gamma Fraction from Positron Annihilation in Mesoporous Materials for Symmetry Violation Experiment with J-PET ScannerB. Jasińska, M. Gorgol, M. Wiertel, R. Zaleski, D. Alfs, T. Bednarski, P. Białas, E. Czerwiński, K. Dulski, A. Gajos B. Głowacz, D. Kamińska, Ł. Kapłon, G. Korcyl, P. Kowalski, T. Kozik, W. Krzemień, E. Kubicz, M. Mohammed, Sz. Niedźwiecki, M. Pałka, L. Raczyński, Z. Rudy, O. Rundel, N.G. Sharma, M. Silarski, A. Słomski, A. Strzelecki, A. Wieczorek, W. Wiślicki, B. Zgardzińska, M. Zieliński, P. MoskalVarious mesoporous materials were investigated to choose the best material for experiments requiring high yield of long-lived positronium. We found that the fraction of 3? annihilation determined using ?-ray energy spectra and positron annihilation lifetime spectra (PAL) changed from 20% to 25%. The 3? fraction and o-Ps formation probability in the polymer XAD-4 is found to be the largest. Elemental analysis performed using scanning electron microscope (SEM) equipped with energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscope EDS shows high purity of the investigated materials.Sampling FEE and Trigger-less DAQ for the J-PET ScannerG. Korcyl, D. Alfs, T. Bednarski, P. Białas, E. Czerwiński, K. Dulski, A. Gajos, B. Głowacz, B. Jasińska, D. Kamińska Ł. Kapłon, P. Kowalski, T. Kozik, W. Krzemień, E. Kubicz, M. Mohammed, Sz. Niedźwiecki, M. Pałka, M. Pawlik-Niedźwiecka, L. Raczyński, Z. Rudy, O. Rundel, N.G. Sharma, M. Silarski, A. Słomski, K. Stoła, A. Strzelecki, A. Wieczorek, W. Wiślicki, B.K. Zgardzińska, M. Zieliński, P. MoskalIn this paper, we present a complete Data Acquisition System (DAQ) together with the readout mechanisms for the J-PET tomography scanner. In general, detector readout chain is constructed out of Front-End Electronics (FEE) measurement devices such as Time-to-Digital or Analog-to-Digital Converters (TDCs or ADCs), data collectors and storage. We have developed a system capable for maintaining continuous readout of digitized data without preliminary selection. Such operation mode results in up to 8 Gbps data stream, therefore, it is required to introduce a dedicated module for on-line event building and feature extraction. The Central Controller Module, equipped with Xilinx Zynq SoC and 16 optical transceivers, serves as such true real time computing facility. Our solution for the continuous data recording (trigger-less) is a novel approach in such detector systems and assures that most of the information is preserved on the storage for further, high-level processing. Signal discrimination applies a unique method of using LVDS buffers located in the FPGA fabric.Beam Profile Investigation of the New Collimator System for the J-PET DetectorE. Kubicz, M. Silarski, A. Wieczorek, D. Alfs, T. Bednarski, P. Białas, E. Czerwiński, A. Gajos, B. Głowacz, B. Jasińska D. Kamińska, G. Korcyl, P. Kowalski, T. Kozik, W. Krzemień, M. Mohammed, I. Moskal, S. Niedźwiecki, M. Pawlik-Niedźwiecka, L. Raczyński, Z. Rudy, A. Strzelecki, W. Wiślicki, M. Zieliński, B. Zgardzińska, P. MoskalJagiellonian Positron Emission Tomograph (J-PET) is a multi-purpose detector which will be used for search for discrete symmetries violations in the decays of positronium atoms and for investigations with positronium atoms in life-sciences and medical diagnostics. In this article, we present three methods for determination of the beam profile of collimated annihilation gamma quanta. Precise monitoring of this profile is essential for time and energy calibration of the J-PET detector and for the determination of the library of model signals used in the hit-time and hit-position reconstruction. We have shown that usage of two lead bricks with dimensions of 5 × 10 × 20 cm3 enables to form a beam of annihilation quanta with Gaussian profile characterized by 1 mm FWHM. Determination of this characteristic is essential for designing and construction the collimator system for the 24-module J-PET prototype. Simulations of the beam profile for different collimator dimensions were performed. This allowed us to choose optimal collimation system in terms of the beam profile parameters, dimensions and weight of the collimator taking into account the design of the 24-module J-PET detector.Scatter Fraction of the J-PET Tomography ScannerP. Kowalski, W. Wiślicki, L. Raczyński, D. Alfs, T. Bednarski, P. Białas, E. Czerwiński, A. Gajos, B. Głowacz, J. Jasińska D. Kamińska, G. Korcyl, T. Kozik, W. Krzemień, E. Kubicz, M. Mohammad, Sz. Niedźwiecki, M. Pałka, M. Pawlik-Niedźwiecka, Z. Rudy, M. Silarski, A. Wieczorek, B. Zgardzińska, M. Zieliński, P. MoskalA novel Positron Emission Tomography system, based on plastic scintillators, is being developed by the J-PET Collaboration. In this article, we present the simulation results of the scatter fraction, representing one of the parameters crucial for background studies defined in the NEMA-NU-2-2012 norm. We elaborate an event selection methods allowing to suppress events in which gamma quanta were scattered in the phantom or underwent the multiple scattering in the detector. The estimated scatter fraction for the single-layer J-PET scanner varies from 37% to 53% depending on the applied energy threshold.Design of the SABAT System for Underwater Detection of Dangerous SubstancesM. Silarski, D. Hunik, M. Smolis, S. Tadeja, P. MoskalWe present status of simulations used to design a novel device for the detection of hazardous substances in the aquatic environment using neutron activation. Unlike the other considered methods based on this technique, we propose to use guides for neutron and gamma quanta which speeds up and simplifies identification. First preliminary results show that both the neutron guide and the ?-ray guide increase the performance of underwater threats detection.Application of the compress sensing theory for improvement of the TOF resolution in a novel J-PET instrumentL. Raczyński, P. Moskal, P. Kowalski, W. Wiślicki, T. Bednarski, P. Białas, E. Czerwiński, A. Gajos, Ł. Kapłon, A. Kochanowski, G. Korcyl, J. Kowal, T. Kozik, W. Krzemień, E. Kubicz, Sz. Niedźwiecki, M. Pałka, Z. Rudy, P. Salabura, N. Gupta-Sharma, M. Silarski, A. Słomski, J. Smyrski, A. Strzelecki, A. Wieczorek, M. Zieliński, N. ZońTrilateration-based reconstruction of ortho-positronium decays into three photons with the J-PET detectorA. Gajos, D. Kamińska, E. Czerwiński, D. Alfs, T. Bednarski, P. Białas, B. Głowacz, M. Gorgol, B. Jasińska, Ł. Kapłon, G. Korcyl, P. Kowalski, T. Kozik, W. Krzemień, E. Kubicz, M. Mohammed, Sz. Niedźwiecki, M. Pałka, M. Pawlik-Niedźwiecka, L. Raczyński, Z. Rudy, O. Rundel, N.G. Sharma, M. Silarski, A. Słomski, A. Strzelecki, A. Wieczorek, W. Wiślicki, B. Zgardzińska, M. Zieliński, P. MoskalThis work reports on a new reconstruction algorithm allowing us to reconstruct the decays of ortho-positronium atoms into three photons using the places and times of photons recorded in the detector. The method is based on trilateration and allows for a simultaneous reconstruction of both location and time of the decay. Results of resolution tests of the new reconstruction in the J-PET detector based on Monte Carlo simulations are presented, which yield a spatial resolution at the level of 2 cm (FWHM) for X and Y and at the level of 1 cm (FWHM) for Z available with the present resolution of J-PET after application of a kinematic fit. Prospects of employment of this method for studying angular correlations of photons in decays of polarized ortho-positronia for the needs of tests of CP and CPT discrete symmetries are also discussed. The new reconstruction method allows for discrimination of background from random three-photon coincidences as well as for application of a novel method for determination of the linear polarization of ortho-positronium atoms, which is also introduced in this work.Time resolution of the plastic scintillator strips with matrix photomultiplier readout for J-PET tomographP. Moskal, O. Rundel, D. Alfs, T. Bednarski, P. Białas, E. Czerwiński, A. Gajos, K. Giergiel, M. Gorgol, B. Jasińska, D. Kamińska, Ł. Kapłon, G. Korcyl, P. Kowalski, T. Kozik, W. Krzemień, E. Kubicz, Sz. Niedźwiecki, M. Pałka, L. Raczyński, Z. Rudy, N.G. Sharma, A. Słomski, M. Silarski, A. Strzelecki, A. Wieczorek, W. Wiślicki, P. Witkowski, M. Zieliński, N. ZońRecent tests of a single module of the Jagiellonian Positron Emission Tomography system (J-PET) consisting of 30 cm long plastic scintillator strips have proven its applicability for the detection of annihilation quanta (0.511 MeV) with a coincidence resolving time (CRT) of 0.266 ns. The achieved resolution is almost by a factor of two better with respect to the current TOF-PET detectors and it can still be improved since, as it is shown in this article, the intrinsic limit of time resolution for the determination of time of the interaction of 0.511 MeV gamma quanta in plastic scintillators is much lower. As the major point of the article, a method allowing to record timestamps of several photons, at two ends of the scintillator strip, by means of matrix of silicon photomultipliers (SiPM) is introduced. As a result of simulations, conducted with the number of SiPM varying from 4 to 42, it is shown that the improvement of timing resolution saturates with the growing number of photomultipliers, and that the 2×5 configuration at two ends allowing to read twenty timestamps, constitutes an optimal solution. The conducted simulations accounted for the emission time distribution, photon transport and absorption inside the scintillator, as well as quantum efficiency and transit time spread of photosensors, and were checked based on the experimental results. Application of the 2×5 matrix of SiPM allows for achieving the coincidence resolving time in positron emission tomography of 0.170 ns for 15 cm axial field-of-view (AFOV) and 0.365 ns for 100 cm AFOV. The results open perspectives for construction of a cost-effective TOFPET scanner with significantly better TOF resolution and larger AFOV with respect to the current TOF-PET modalities.Overview of the software architecture and data flow for the J-PET tomography deviceW. Krzemień, D. Alfs, P. Białas, E. Czerwiński, A. Gajos, B. Głowacz, B. Jasińska, D. Kamińska, G. Korcyl, P. Kowalski, T. Kozik, E. Kubicz, Sz. Niedźwiecki, M. Pawlik-Niedźwiecka, L. Raczyński, Z. Rudy, M. Silarski, A. Strzelecki, A. Wieczorek, W. Wiślicki, M. Zieliński, P. MoskalModern TOF-PET scanner systems require high-speed computing resources for efficient data processing, monitoring and image reconstruction. In this article we present the data flow and software architecture for the novel TOF-PET scanner developed by the J-PET collaboration. We discuss the data acquisition system, reconstruction framework and some image reconstruction issues. Also, the concept of computing outside hospitals in the remote centers such as 'Swierk Computing Centre in Poland is presentedPotential of the J-PET Detector for Studies of Discrete Symmetries in Decays of Positronium Atom - a Purely Leptonic SystemP. Moskal, D. Alfs, T. Bednarski, P. Białas, E. Czerwinski, C. Curceanu, A. Gajos, B. Głowacz, M. Gorgol, B.C. Hiesmayr, B. Jasinska, D. Kaminska, G. Korcyl, P. Kowalski, T. Kozik, W. Krzemien , N. Krawczyk, E. Kubicz, M. Mohammed, Sz. Niedzwiecki, M. Pawlik-Niedzwiecka, L. Raczynski, Z. Rudy, M. Silarski, A. Wieczorek, W. Wislicki, M. ZielinskiThe Jagiellonian Positron Emission Tomograph (J-PET) was constructed as a prototype of the cost-effective scanner for the simultaneous metabolic imaging of the whole human body. Being optimized for the detection of photons from the electron?positron annihilation with high timeand high angular-resolution, it constitutes a multi-purpose detector providing new opportunities for studying the decays of positronium atoms. Positronium is the lightest purely leptonic object decaying into photons. As an atom bound by a central potential, it is a parity eigenstate, and as an atom built out of an electron and an anti-electron, it is an eigenstate of the charge conjugation operator. Therefore, the positronium is a unique laboratory to study discrete symmetries whose precision is limited, in principle, by the effects due to the weak interactions expected at the level of (10????14) and photon?photon interactions expected at the level of (10????9). The J-PET detector enables to perform tests of discrete symmetries in the leptonic sector via the determination of the expectation values of the discrete-symmetries-odd operators, which may be constructed from the spin of ortho-positronium atom and the momenta and polarization vectors of photons originating from its annihilation. In this article, we present the potential of the J-PET detector to test the C, CP, T and CPT symmetries in the decays of positronium atoms.Precision measurement of the eta to pi+pi-pi0 Dalitz plot distribution with the KLOE detectorKLOE-2 Collaboration: A. Anastasi, E. Czerwiński, A. Gajos, D. Kamińska, W. Krzemień, P. Moskal, M. Silarski, W. Wiślicki, et al.Using 1.6 fb^-1 of e+e-to phi eta gamma data collected with the KLOE detector at DAFNE, the Dalitz plot distribution for the eta to pi+ pi- pi0 decay is studied with the world's largest sample of ~4.7 10^6 events. The Dalitz plot density is parametrized as a polynomial expansion up to cubic terms in the normalized dimensionless variables X and Y. The experiment is sensitive to all charge conjugation conserving terms of the expansion, including a gX2Y term. The statistical uncertainty of all parameters is improved by a factor two with respect to earlier measurements.Measurement of the phi->pi0e+e- transition form factor with the KLOE detectorKLOE-2 Collaboration: A. Anastasi, E. Czerwiński, A. Gajos, D. Kamińska, W. Krzemień, P. Moskal, M. Silarski, W. Wiślicki, et al.A measurement of the vector to pseudoscalar conversion decay phi->pi0e+e- with the KLOE experiment is presented. A sample of ~9500 signal events was selected from a data set of 1.7 fb^(-1) of e+e- collisions at sqrt(s)~m(phi) collected at the DAFNE e+e- collider. These events were used to obtain the first measurement of the transition form factor |F_{phi,pi^0}(q2)| and a new measurement of the branching ratio of the decay: BR(phi->pi0e+e-)=(1.35+/-0.05+0.05?0.10)×10^(-5). The result improves significantly on previous measurements and is in agreement with theoretical predictions.J-PET: A Novel TOF-PFT Detector based on Plastic ScintillatorsP. Moskal, D. Alfs, T. Bednarski, P. Bialas, C. Curceanu, E. Czerwinski, K. Dulski, A. Gajos, B. Glowacz, M. Gorgol, B. Hiesmayr, B. Jasinska, D. Kaminska, G. Korcyl, P. Kowalski, T. Kozik, W. Krzemien, E. Kubicz, M. Mohammed, M. Pawlik-Niedzwiecka, S. Niedzwiecki, M. Palka, L. Raczynski, Z. Rudy, O. Rundel, NG. Sharma, M. Silarski, J. Smyrski, A. Strzelecki, A. Wieczorek, W. Wislicki, B. Zgardzinska, M. ZielinskiThe purpose of the reported research is the elaboration of the method for construction of the cost-effective whole body single-bed positron emission tomography scanner enabling simultaneous PET/CT and PET/MR imaging The Jagiellonian Positron Emission Tomograph (J-PET) is built out of 192 scintillator strips arranged axially in three layers forming a cylindrical diagnostic chamber with the diameter of 85 cm and axial field of-view of 50 cm. The novelty of the concept lies in employing long strips of plastic scintillators instead of crystals as detectors of the annihilation quanta, and in using the timing of signals instead of their amplitudes for the reconstruction of Lines-of Response. To take advantage of the superior timing properties of plastic scintillators a novel multi-voltage-threshold front-end electronics was developed allowing for sampling of signals in a voltage domain. An axial arrangement of long strips of plastic scintillators, and their small light attenuation allows us to make a TOE-PET scanner with a long axial field-of-view. The presented solution opens unique possibilities of combining PET with CT and PET with MRI for scanning the same part of a patient at the same time with both methods. The relative ease of the cost effective increase of the axial field-of-view makes the J-PET tomograph competitive with respect to the current commercial PET scanners as regards sensitivity and time resolution.Statistical Analysis of Time Resolution of the J-PET ScannerL. Raczynski, W. Wislicki, P. Kowalski, W. Krzemien, D. Alfs, T. Bednarski, P. Bialas, C. Curceanu, E. Czerwinski, K. Dulski, A. Gajos, B. Glowacz, M. Gorgol, B. Hiesmayr, B. Jasinska, D. Kaminska, G. Korcyl, T. Kozik, N. Krawczyk, E. Kubicz, M. Mohammed, M. Pawlik-Niedzwiecka, S. Niedzwiecki, M. Palka, Z. Rudy, O. Rundel, NG. Sharma, M. Silarski, J. Smyrski, A. Strzelecki, A. Wieczorek, B. Zgardzinska, M. Zielinski, P. MoskalThe commercial Positron Emission Tomography (PET) scanners use inorganic crystal scintillators for the detection of gamma photons. The Jagiellonian-PET (J-PET) detector exhibits high time resolution due to use of fast plastic scintillators and dedicated electronics circuits. Since the time resolution of PET scanner is influenced by numerous factors, e.g. a type of photomultipliers attached to the scintillators, the optimal selection of components of the J-PET system requires detailed understanding of the method for calculation the time resolution. In this paper we show the idea of this method, based on statistical analysis of the observed signals on the photomultiplier's output. The method is tested using signals registered by means of the single detection module of the J-PET scanner built out from 30 cm long plastic scintillator strips. We investigate two main factors affecting the photon registration probability, photomultipliers quantum efficiency and photomultipliers transit time spread. We demonstrate that the quantum efficiency of photomultipliers represents the most important factor influencing overall performance of the J-PET scanner.Studies of discrete symmetries in a purely leptonic system using the Jagiellonian Positron Emission TomographP. Moskal, D. Alfs, T. Bednarski, P. Bialas, C. Curceanu, E. Czerwinski, K. Dulski, A. Gajos, B. Glowacz, N. Gupta-Sharma, M. Gorgol, BC. Hiesmayr, B. Jasinska, D. Kaminska, O. Khreptak, G. Korcyl, P. Kowalski, W. Krzemien, N. Krawczyk, E. Kubicz, M. Mohammed, S. Niedzwiecki, M. Pawlik-Niedzwiecka, L. Raczynski, Z. Rudy, M. Silarski, J. Smyrski, A. Wieczorek, W. Wislicki, B. Zgardzinska, M. ZielinskiDiscrete symmetries such as parity (P), charge-conjugation (C) and time reversal (T) are of fundamental importance in physics and cosmology. Breaking of charge conjugation symmetry (C) and its combination with parity (CP) constitute necessary conditions for the existence of the asymmetry between matter and antimatter in the observed Universe. The presently known sources of discrete symmetries violations can account for only a tiny fraction of the excess of matter over antimatter. So far CP and T symmetries violations were observed only for systems involving quarks and they were never reported for the purely leptonic objects. In this article we describe briefly an experimental proposal for the test of discrete symmetries in the decays of positronium atom which is made exclusively of leptons. The experiments are conducted by means of the Jagiellonian Positron Emission Tomograph (J-PET) which is constructed from strips of plastic scintillators enabling registration of photons from the positronium annihilation. J-PET tomograph together with the positronium target system enable to measure expectation values for the discrete symmetries odd operators constructed from (i)spin vector of the ortho-positronium atom, (ii) momentum vectors of photons originating from the decay of positronium, and (iii) linear polarization direction of annihilation photons. Linearly polarized positronium will be produced in the highly porous aerogel or polymer targets, exploiting longitudinally polarized positrons emitted by the sodium Na-22 isotope. Information about the polarization vector of ortho-positronium will be available on the event by event basis and will be reconstructed from the known position of the positron source and the reconstructed position of the ortho-positronium annihilation. In 2016 the first tests and calibration runs are planned, and the data collection with high statistics will commence in the year 2017.Searches for discrete symmetries violation in ortho-positronium decay using the J-PET detectorD. Kamińska, A. Gajos, E. Czerwiński, T. Bednarski, P. Białas, M. Gorgol, B. Jasińska, Ł. Kapłon, G. Korcyl, P. Kowalski, T. Kozik, W. Krzemień, E. Kubicz, S. Niedźwiecki, M. Pałka, L. Raczyński, Z. Rudy, O. Rundel, N. Gupta-Sharma, M. Silarski, A. Słomski, A. Strzelecki, A. Wieczorek, W. Wiślicki, M. Zieliński, B. Zgardzińska, P. MoskalIn this paper, we present prospects for using the Jagiellonian positron emission tomograph (J-PET) detector to search for discrete symmetries violations in a purely leptonic system of the positronium atom. We discuss tests of CP and CPT symmetries by means of ortho-positronium decays into three photons. No zero expectation values for chosen correlations between ortho-positronium spin and momentum vectors of photons would imply the existence of physics phenomena beyond the standard model. Previous measurements resulted in violation amplitude parameters for CP and CPT symmetries consistent with zero, with an uncertainty of about 10?3. The J-PET detector allows to determine those values with better precision, thanks to the unique time and angular resolution combined with a high geometrical acceptance. Achieving the aforementioned is possible because of the application of polymer scintillators instead of crystals as detectors of annihilation quanta.Studies of unicellular microorganisms Saccharomyces cerevisiae by means of positron annihilation lifetime spectroscopyE. Kubicz, B. Jasińska, B. Zgardzińska, T. Bednarski, P. Białas, E. Czerwiński, A. Gajos, M. Gorgol, D. Kamińska, Ł. Kapłon, A. Kochanowski, G. Korcyl, P. Kowalski, T. Kozik, W. Krzemień, S. Niedźwiecki, M. Pałka, L. Raczyński, Z. Rajfur, Z. Rudy, O. Rundel, N. Gupta-Sharma, M. Silarski, A. Słomski, A. Strzelecki, A. Wieczorek, W. Wiślicki, M. Zieliński, P. MoskalResults of positron annihilation lifetime spectroscopy (PALS) and microscopic studies on simple microorganisms, brewing yeasts, are presented. Lifetime of ortho-positronium (o-Ps) were found to change from 2.4 to 2.9 ns (longer-lived component) for lyophilized and aqueous yeasts, respectively. Also hygroscopicity of yeasts in time was examined, allowing to check how water ? the main component of the cell ? affects PALS parameters, thus lifetime of o-Ps were found to change from 1.2 to 1.4 ns (shorter-lived component) for the dried yeasts. The time suffi cient to hydrate the cells was found below 10 hours. In the presence of liquid water, an indication of reorganization of yeast in the molecular scale was observed. Microscopic images of the lyophilized, dried, and wet yeasts with best possible resolution were obtained using inverted microscopy (IM) and environmental scanning electron microscopy (ESEM) methods. As a result, visible changes to the surface of the cell me mbrane were observed in ESEM images.K- absorption on two nucleons and ppK- bound state search in the E0p final stateO. Vazquez Doce, L. Fabbietti, M. Cargnelli, C. Curceanu, J. Marton, K. Piscicchia, A. Scordo, D. Sirghi, I. Tucakovic, S. Wycech, J. Zmeskal, A. Anastasi, F. Curciarello, E. Czerwinski, W. Krzemien, G. Mandaglio, M. Martini, P. Moskal, V. Patera, E. Perez del Rio, M. SilarskiWe report the measurement of K- absorption processes in the Sigma_0p final state and the first exclusive measurement of the two nucleon absorption (2NA) with the KLOE detector. The 2NA process without further interactions is found to be 12% of the sum of all other contributing processes, including absorption on three and more nucleons or 2NA followed by final state interactions with the residual nucleons. We also determine the possible contribution of the ppK- bound state to the ?0p final state. A yield of ppK-/K_stop is found to be (0.044+/-0.009stat+0.004+/-0.005syst)?10?2 but its statistical significance based on an F-test is only 1sigma.Limit on the production of a low-mass vector boson in e+e- ->U, U->e+e- with the KLOE experimentA. Anastasi, E. Czerwiński, A. Gajos, D. Kamińska, W. Krzemień, P. Moskal, M. Silarski, W. Wiślicki, et al.The existence of a new force beyond the Standard Model is compelling because it could explain several striking astrophysical observations which fail standard interpretations. We searched for the light vector mediator of this dark force, the U boson, with the KLOE detector at the DAFNE e+e? collider. Using an integrated luminosity of 1.54 fb^-1, we studied the process e+e->U, with U->e+e-, using radiative-return to search for a resonant peak in the dielectron invariant-mass distribution. We did not find evidence for a signal, and set a 90\%~CL upper limit on the mixing strength between the Standard Model photon and the dark photon, ?^2, at 10^-6--10^-4 in the 5--520~MeV/c2 mass range.Reconstruction of hit time and hit position of annihilation quanta in the J-PET detector usi ng the Mahalanobis distanceN. G. Sharma, M. Silarski, T. Bednarski, P. Białas, E. Czerwiński, A. Gajos, M. Gorgol, B. Jasińska, D. Kamińska, Ł. Kapłon, G. Korcyl, P. Kowalski, T. Kozik, W. Krzemień, E. Kubicz, Sz. Niedźwiecki, M. Pałka, L. Raczyński, Z. Rudy, O. Rundel, A. Słomski, A. Strzelecki, A. Wieczorek, W. Wiślicki, M. Zieliński, B. Zgardzińska, P. MoskalThe J-PET detector being developed at Jagiellonian University, is a Positron Emission Tomograph composed of the long strips of polymer scintillators. At the same time it is a detector system which will be used for studies of the decays of positronium atoms. The shape of photomultiplier signals depends on the hit-time and hit-position of the gamma quantum. In order to take advantage of this fact a dedicated sampling front-end electronics which enables to sample signals in voltage domain with the time precision of about 20 ps and novel reconstruction method based on the comparison of examined signal with the model signals stored in the library has been developed. As a measure of the similarity we use the Mahalanobis distance. The achievable position and time-resolution depends on number and values of the threshold levels at which the signal is sampled. A reconstruction method, as well as preliminary results are presented and discussed.PALS investigations of free volumes thermal expansion of J-PET plastic scintillator synthesized in polystyrene matrixA. Wieczorek, B. Zgardzińska, B. Jasińska, M. Gorgol, T. Bednarski, P. Białas, E. Czerwiński, A. Gajos, D. Kamińska, Ł. Kapłon, A. Kochanowski, G. Korcyl, P. Kowalski, T. Kozik, W. Krzemień, E. Kubicz, Sz. Niedźwiecki, M. Pałka, L. Raczyński, Z. Rudy, O. Rundel, N.G. Sharma, M. Silarski, A. Słomski, A. Strzelecki, W. Wiślicki, M. Zieliński, P. MoskalThe polystyrene dopped with 2,5-diphenyloxazole as a primary fluor and 2-(4-styrylphenyl)benzoxazole as a wavelength shifter, prepared as a plastic scintillator was investigated using positronium probe in wide range of temperatures from 123 to 423 K. Three structural transitions at 260 K, 283 K and 370 K were found in the material. In the o-Ps intensity dependence on temperature, the significant hysteresis is observed. Heated to 370 K, the material exhibits the o-Ps intensity variations in time.Processing optimization with parallel computing for the J-PET scannerW. Krzemień, M. Bała, T. Bednarski, P. Białas, E. Czerwiński, A. Gajos, M. Gorgol, B. Jasińska, D. Kamińska, Ł. Kapłon, G. Korcyl, P. Kowalski, T. Kozik, E. Kubicz, Sz. Niedźwiecki, M. Pałka, L. Raczyński, Z. Rudy, O. Rundel, N.G. Sharma, M. Silarski, A. Słomski, K. Stola, A. Strzelecki, D. Trybek, Anna Wieczorek, W. Wiślicki, M. Zieliński, B. K. Zgardzińska, P. MoskalThe Jagiellonian-PET (J-PET) collaboration is developing a prototype TOF-PET detector based on long polymer scintillators. This novel approach exploits the excellent time properties of the plastic scintillators, which permit very precise time measurements. The very fast, FPGA-based front-end electronics and the data acquisition system, as well as, low- and high-level reconstruction algorithms were specially developed to be used with the J-PET scanner. The TOF-PET data processing and reconstruction are time and resource demanding operations, especially in case of a large acceptance detector, which works in triggerless data acquisition mode. In this article, we discuss the parallel computing methods applied to optimize the data processing for the J-PET detector. We begin with general concepts of parallel computing and then we discuss several applications of those techniques in the J-PET data processing.Investigation of the low energy kaons hadronic interactions in light nuclei by AMADEUSK. Piscicchia, ... ,P.Moskal, ...,M. Silarski, M. Skurzok, ..., et al.The AMADEUS experiment aims to provide unique quality data for K- interaction with nucleons and light nuclei, both at-rest and in-flight (for K- momenta of about 100 MeV). The goal is to solve longstanding open issues in the non-perturbative QCD in the strangeness sector, like the nature of the Lambda(1405) state, the resonant versus non-resonant yield in nuclear K- capture and the properties of kaonic nuclear clusters which are strongly related to the multi-nucleon absorption processes. We can take advantage of the DAFNE collider representing a unique source of monochromatic low-momentum kaons, whose nuclear interaction with the materials of the KLOE detector (used as an active target) furnish us excellent acceptance and resolution data for K- capture on H,4He,9Be and12C, both at-rest and in-flight. AMADEUS step 0 consisted in the analysis of the 2004-2005 KLOE data. A second step consisted in the implementation in the central region of the KLOE detector of a pure graphite target, providing a high statistic sample of K^{?}^{12} C nuclear captures at rest. For the future, new setups for various dedicated targets are under preparation.Project of the underwater system for chemical threat detectionM. Silarski, D. Hunik, P. Moskal, M. Smolis, S. TadejaIn this article we describe a novel method for the detection of explosives and other hazardous substances in the marine environment using neutron activation. Unlike the other considered methods based on this technique we propose to use guides forneutron and gamma quanta which speeds up and simplifies identification. Moreover, it may provide a determination of the density distribution of a dangerous substance. First preliminary results of Monte Carlo simulations dedicated for design of a device exploiting this method are also presented.Multiple Scattering and Accidental Coincidences in the J-PET Detector Simulated Using GATE PackageP. Kowalski, P. Moskal, W. Wislicki, L. Raczynski, T. Bednarski, P. Bialas, J. Bulka, E. Czerwinski, A. Gajos, A. Gruntowski, D. Kaminska, L. Kaplon, A. Kochanowski, G. Korcyl, J. Kowal, T. Kozik, W. Krzemien, E. Kubicz, S. Niedzwiecki, M. Palka, Z. Rudy, P. Salabura, NG. Sharma, M. Silarski, A. Slomski, J. Smyrski, A. Strzelecki, A. Wieczorek, I. Wochlik, M. Zielinski, N. ZonNovel positron emission tomography system, based on plastic scintillators, is developed by the J-PET collaboration. In order to optimize geometrical configuration of built device, advanced computer simulations are performed. Detailed study is presented of background given by accidental coincidences and multiple scattering of gamma quanta.A pilot study of the novel J-PET plastic scintillator with 2-(4-styrylphenyl)benzoxazole as a wavelength shifterA. Wieczorek, P. Moskal, Sz. Niedźwiecki, T. Bednarski, P. Białas, E. Czerwiński, A. Danel, A. Gajos, A. Gruntowski, D. Kamińska, Ł. Kapłon, A. Kochanowski, G. Korcyl, J. Kowal, P. Kowalski, T. Kozik, W. Krzemień, E. Kubicz, M. Molenda, M. Pałka, L. Raczyński, Z. Rudy, O. Rundel, P. Salabura, N.G. Sharma, M. Silarski, A. Słomski, J. Smyrski, A. Strzelecki, T. Uchacz, W. Wiślicki, M. Zieliński, N. ZońFor the first time a molecule of 2-(4-styrylphenyl)benzoxazole containing benzoxazole and stilbene groups is applied as a scintillator dopant acting as a wavelength shifter. In this article a light yield of the plastic scintillator, prepared from styrene doped with 2 wt% of 2,5-diphenylbenzoxazole and 0.03 wt% of 2-(4-styrylphenyl)benzoxazole, is determined to be as large as 60% ? 2% of the anthracene light output. There is a potential to improve this value in the future by the optimization of the additives concentrations.Compressive sensing of signals generated in plastic scintillators in a novel J-PET instrumentL. Raczyński, P. Moskal, P. Kowalski, W. Wiślicki, T. Bednarski, P. Białas, E. Czerwiński, A. Gajos, Ł. Kapłon, A. Kochanowski, G. Korcyl, J. Kowal, T. Kozik, W. Krzemień, E. Kubicz, Sz. Niedźwiecki, M. Pałka, Z. Rudy, O. Rundel, P. Salabura, N.G. Sharma, M. Silarski, A. Słomski, J. Smyrski, A. Strzelecki, A. Wieczorek, M. Zieliński, N. ZońThe J-PET scanner, which allows for single bed imaging of the whole human body, is currently under development at the Jagiellonian University. The discussed detector offers improvement of the Time of Flight (TOF) resolution due to the use of fast plastic scintillators and dedicated electronics allowing for sampling in the voltage domain of signals with durations of few nanoseconds. In this paper we show that recovery of the whole signal, based on only a few samples, is possible. In order to do that, we incorporate the training signals into the Tikhonov regularization framework and we perform the Principal Component Analysis decomposition, which is well known for its compaction properties. The method yields a simple closed form analytical solution that does not require iterative processing. Moreover, from the Bayes theory the properties of regularized solution, especially its covariance matrix, may be easily derived. This is the key to introduce and prove the formula for calculations of the signal recovery error. In this paper we show that an average recovery error is approximately inversely proportional to the number of acquired samples.Analysis framework for the J-PET scannerW. Krzemień, A. Gajos, A. Gruntowski, K. Stola, D. Trybek, T. Bednarski, P. Białas, E. Czerwiński, D. Kamińska, L. Kapłon, A. Kochanowski, G. Korcyl, J. Kowal, P. Kowalski, T. Kozik, E. Kubicz, P. Moskal, Sz. Niedźwiecki, M. Pałka, L. Raczyński, Z. Rudy, P. Salabura, N. G. Sharma, M. Silarski, A. Słomski, J. Smyrski, A. Strzelecki, A. Wieczorek, W. Wiślicki, M. Zieliński, N. ZońJ-PET analysis framework is a flexible, lightweight, ROOT-based software package which provides the tools to develop reconstruction and calibration procedures for PET tomography. In this article we present the implementation of the full data-processing chain in the J-PET framework which is used for the data analysis of the J-PET tomography scanner. The Framework incorporates automated handling of PET setup parameters' database as well as high level tools for building data reconstruction procedures. Each of these components is briefly discussed.GPU accelerated image reconstruction in a two-strip J-PET tomographP. Białas, J. Kowal, A. Strzelecki, T. Bednarski, E. Czerwiński, A. Gajos, D. Kamińska, Ł. Kapłon, A. Kochanowski, G. Korcyl, P. Kowalski, T. Kozik, W. Krzemień, E. Kubicz, P. Moskal, Sz. Niedźwiecki, M. Pałka, L. Raczyński, Z. Rudy, O. Rundel, P. Salabura, N.G. Sharma, M. Silarski, A. Słomski, J. Smyrski, A. Wieczorek, W. Wiślicki, M. Zieliński, N. ZońWe present a fast GPU implementation of the image reconstruction routine, for a novel two strip PET detector that relies solely on the time of flight measurements.Improved KS Tagging Procedure and Its Impact on Physics at KLOE-2M. SilarskiThe KLOE experiment at the DA?NE ?-factory performed precise studies of charged and neutral kaon physics, low energy QCD, as well as tests of CP and CPT invariance. For the new run, the KLOE has been upgraded by adding new tagger systems for the ?? physics, the inner tracking chamber and two calorimeters in the final focusing region. We are also improving on kaon identification techniques, in particular algorithms for the KS meson tagging. In this article, we discuss the impact of the improved tagging procedure on studies of the KS decays.Measurement of the Strong Interaction Induced Shift and Width of the 1s State of Kaonic Deuterium at J-PARCJ. Zmeskal, C. Curceanu, M. Sato, R.S. Hayano, P. Moskal, M. Silarski, et al.The antikaon?nucleon (KN) interaction close to threshold provides crucial information on the interplay between spontaneous and explicit chiral symmetry breaking in low-energy QCD. In this context, the importance of kaonic deuterium X-ray spectroscopy has been well recognized, but no experimental results have yet been obtained due to the difficulty of the measurement. We propose to measure the shift and width of the kaonic deuterium 1s state with an accuracy of 60 eV and 140 eV, respectively, at J-PARC. These results, together with the kaonic hydrogen data (KpX at KEK, DEAR and SIDDHARTA at DA?NE), will then permit the determination of values of both the isospin I = 0 and I = 1 antikaon?nucleon scattering lengths and will provide the most stringent constraints on the antikaon?nucleon interaction, promising a breakthrough. Refined Monte Carlo studies were performed, including the investigation of background suppression factors for the described setup. These studies have demonstrated the feasibility of determining the shift and width of the kaonic deuterium atom 1s state with the desired accuracy of 60 eV and 140 eV.Search for dark Higgsstrahlung in e+ e- -> mu+ mu- and missing energy events with the KLOE experimentD. Babusci, ..., E. Czerwiński, A. Gajos, D. Kamińska, W. Krzemień, P. Moskal, M. Silarski, W. Wiślicki, et al.We searched for evidence of a Higgsstrahlung process in a secluded sector, leading to a final state with a dark photon U and a dark Higgs boson h', with the KLOE detector at DAFNE. We investigated the case of h' lighter than U, with U decaying into a muon pair and h' producing a missing energy signature. We found no evidence of the process and set upper limits to its parameters in the range 2m_muKaon Physics with the KLOE DetectorC. Bloise, E. De Lucia, A. De Santis, P. De Simone, E. Czerwiński, A. Gajos, D. Kamińska, P. Moskal, M. Silarski, A. Di Domenico, A. Passeri, W. WiślickiIn this paper, we discuss the recent finalized analyses by the KLOE experiment at DA?NE: the CPT and Lorentz invariance test with entangled K0K0 pairs, and the precision measurement of the branching fraction of the decay K+ ? ?+???+(?). We also present the status of an ongoing analysis aiming to precisely measure the K? mass.A novel method for the line-of-response and time-of-flight reconstruction in TOF-PET detectors based on a library of synchronized model signalsP. Moskal, N. Zoń, T. Bednarski, P. Białas, E. Czerwiński, A. Gajos, D. Kamińska, Ł. Kapłon, A. Kochanowski, G. Korcyl, J. Kowal, P. Kowalski, T. Kozik, W. Krzemień, E. Kubicz, Sz. Niedźwiecki, M. Pałka, L. Raczyński, Z. Rudy, O. Rundel, P. Salabura, N.G. Sharma, M. Silarski, A. Słomski, J. Smyrski, A. Strzelecki, A. Wieczorek, W. Wiślicki, M. ZielińskiA novel method of hit time and hit position reconstruction in scintillator detectors is described. The method is based on comparison of detector signals with results stored in a library of synchronized model signals registered for a set of well-defined positions of scintillation points. The hit position is reconstructed as the one corresponding to the signal from the library which is most similar to the measurement signal. The time of the interaction is determined as a relative time between the measured signal and the most similar one in the library. A degree of similarity of measured and model signals is defined as the distance between points representing the measurement- and model-signal in the multi-dimensional measurement space. Novelty of the method lies also in the proposed way of synchronization of model signals enabling direct determination of the difference between time-of-flights (TOF) of annihilation quanta from the annihilation point to the detectors. The introduced method was validated using experimental data obtained by means of the double strip prototype of the J-PET detector and 22Na sodium isotope as a source of annihilation gamma quanta.The detector was built out from plastic scintillator strips with dimensions of 5 mm x 19 mm x 300 mm, optically connected at both sides to photomultipliers,from which signals were sampled by means of the Serial Data Analyzer.Using the introduced method, the spatial and TOF resolution of about 1.3 cm (?) and 125 ps (?) were established, respectively.Test of a single module of the J-PET scanner based on plastic scintillatorsP. Moskal, S. Niedzwiecki, T. Bednarski, E. Czerwinski, L. Kaplon, E. Kubicz, I. Moskal, M. Pawlik-Niedzwiecka, NG. Sharma, M. Silarski, M. Zielinski, N. Zon, P. Bialas, A. Gajos, A. Kochanowski, G. Korcyl, J. Kowal, P. Kowalski, T. Kozik, W. Krzemien, M. Molenda, M. Palka, L. Raczynski, Z. Rudy, P. Salabura, A. Slomski, J. Smyrski, A. Strzelecki, A. Wieczorek, W. WislickiA Time of Flight Positron Emission Tomography scanner based on plastic scintillators is being developed at the Jagiellonian University by the J-PET collaboration. The main challenge of the conducted research lies in the elaboration of a method allowing application of plastic scintillators for the detection of low energy gamma quanta. In this paper we report on tests of a single detection module built out from the BC-420 plastic scintillator strip (with dimensions of 5 x 19 x 300 mm(3)) read out at two ends by Hamamatsu R5320 photomultipliers. The measurements were performed using collimated beam of annihilation quanta from the Ge-68 isotope and applying the Serial Data Analyzer (Lecroy SDA6000A) which enabled sampling of signals with 50 ps intervals. The time resolution of the prototype module was established to be better than 80 ps (sigma) for a single level discrimination. The spatial resolution of the determination of the hit position along the strip was determined to be about 0.93 cm (sigma) for the annihilation quanta. The fractional energy resolution for the energy E deposited by the annihilation quanta via the Compton scattering amounts to sigma(E)/E approximate to 0.044/root E(MeV) and corresponds to the (sigma(E)/E of 7.5% at the Compton edge. (C) 2014 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.Study of Dalitz decay phi -> eta e+e- with KLOE detectorD. Babusci, ..., I. Balwierz-Pytko, E. Czerwiński, A. Gajos, D. Kamińska, P. Moskal, M. Silarski, W. Wiślicki, et al.We have studied the vector to pseudoscalar conversion decay phi -> eta e+e-, with eta -> pi0pi0pi0, with the KLOE detector at DAPHNE. The data set of 1.7 fb-1 of e+e- collisions at sqrt(s)~Mphi contains a clear conversion decay signal of ~31,000 events from which we measured a value of BR(phi -> eta e+e-)=(1.075+-0.007+-0.038)x10-4. The same sample is used to determine the transition form factor by a fit to the e+e- invariant mass spectrum, obtaining b(phi eta) =(1.17 +- 0.10 + 0.07) GeV-2, that improves by a factor of five the precision of the previous measurement and is in good agreement with VMD expectations.Measurement of the absolute branching ratio of the K+->pi+pi-pi+(gamma) decay with the KLOE detectorKLOE-2 Collaboration: D. Babusci, ..., I. Balwierz-Pytko, E. Czerwiński, A. Gajos, K. Kacprzak, D. Kamińska, P. Moskal, M. Silarski, W. Wiślicki et al.The absolute branching ratio of the K+->pi+pi-pi+(gamma)decay, inclusive of final-state radiation, has been measured using ?17 million tagged K + mesons collected with the KLOE detector at DAFNE, the Frascati phi-factory. The result is: BR(K+->pi+pi-pi+(gamma))= 0.05565 +- 0.00031stat +- 0.00025syst a factor ~5 more precise with respect to the previous result. This work completes the program of precision measurements of the dominant kaon branching ratios at KLOE.Determination of the eta '-Proton Scattering Length in Free SpaceE. Czerwinski, P. Moskal, M. Silarski, SD. Bass, D. Grzonka, B. Kamys, A. Khoukaz, J. Klaja, W. Krzemien, W. Oelert, J. Ritman, T. Sefzick, J. Smyrski, A. Taschner, M. Wolke, M. ZielinskiTaking advantage of both the high mass resolution of the COSY-11 detector and the high energy resolution of the low-emittance proton beam of the cooler synchrotron COSY, we determine the excitation function for the pp --> pp eta' reaction close to threshold. Combining these data with previous results, we extract the scattering length for the eta'-proton potential in free space to be Re(alpha(p eta)') = 0 +/- 0.43 fm and Im(alpha(p eta)') = 0.37(-0.16)(+0.40) fm.Test of a single module of the J-PET scanner based on plastic scintillatorsP. Moskal, Sz. Niedźwiecki, T. Bednarski, E. Czerwiński, Ł. Kapłon, E. Kubicz, I. Moskal, M. Pawlik-Niedźwiecka, N.G. Sharma, M. Silarski, M. Zieliński, N. Zoń, P. Białas, A. Gajos, A. Kochanowski, G. Korcyl, J. Kowal, P. Kowalski, T. Kozik, W. Krzemień, M. Molenda, M. Pałka, L. Raczyński, Z. Rudy, P. Salabura, A. Słomski, J. Smyrski, A. Strzelecki, A. Wieczorek, W. WiślickiTime of Flight Positron Emission Tomography scanner based on plastic scintillators is being developed at the Jagiellonian University by the J-PET collaboration. The main challenge of the conducted research lies in the elaboration of a method allowing application of plastic scintillators for the detection of low energy gamma quanta. In this article we report on tests of a single detection module built out from BC-420 plastic scintillator strip (with dimensions of 5x19x300mm^3) read out at two ends by Hamamatsu R5320 photomultipliers. The measurements were performed using collimated beam of annihilation quanta from the 68Ge isotope and applying the Serial Data Analyzer (Lecroy SDA6000A) which enabled sampling of signals with 50ps intervals. The time resolution of the prototype module was established to be better than 80ps (sigma) for a single level discrimination. The spatial resolution of the determination of the hit position along the strip was determined to be about 0.93cm (sigma) for the annihilation quanta. The fractional energy resolution for the energy E deposited by the annihilation quanta via the Compton scattering amounts to sigma(E)/E = 0.044/sqrt(E[MeV]) and corresponds to the sigma(E)/E of 7.5% at the Compton edge.Novel method for hit-position reconstruction using voltage signals in plastic scintillators and its application to Positron Emission TomographyL. Raczyński, P. Moskal, P. Kowalski, W. Wiślicki, T. Bednarski, P. Białas, E. Czerwiński, Ł. Kapłon, A. Kochanowski, G. Korcyl, J. Kowal, T. Kozik, W. Krzemień, E. Kubicz, M. Molenda, I. Moskal, Sz. Niedźwiecki, M. Pałka, M. Pawlik-Niedźwiecka, Z. Rudy, P. Salabura, N.G. Sharma, M. Silarski, A. Słomski, J. Smyrski, A. Strzelecki, A. Wieczorek, M. Zieliński, N. ZońCurrently inorganic scintillator detectors are used in all commercial Time of Flight Positron Emission Tomograph (TOF-PET) devices. The J-PET collaboration investigates a possibility of construction of a PET scanner from plastic scintillators which would allow for single bed imaging of the whole human body. This paper describes a novel method of hit-position reconstruction based on sampled signals and an example of an application of the method for a single module with a 30 cm long plastic strip, read out on both ends by Hamamatsu R4998 photomultipliers. The sampling scheme to generate a vector with samples of a PET event waveform with respect to four user-defined amplitudes is introduced. The experimental setup provides irradiation of a chosen position in the plastic scintillator strip with an annihilation gamma quanta of energy 511 keV. The statistical test for a multivariate normal (MVN) distribution of measured vectors at a given position is developed, and it is shown that signals sampled at four thresholds in a voltage domain are approximately normally distributed variables. With the presented method of a vector analysis made out of waveform samples acquired with four thresholds, we obtain a spatial resolution of about 1 cm and a timing resolution of about 80 ps (sigma).Search for light vector boson production in e+e- -> mi+mi- gamma interactions with the KLOE experimentD. Babusci, I. Balwierz-Pytko, E. Czerwiński, A. Gajos, D. Kamińska, W. Krzemień, P. Moskal, M. Silarski, J. Zdebik, et al.We have searched for a light vector boson U, the possible carrier of a dark force, with the KLOE detector at the DAFNE e+e- collider, motivated by the astrophysical evidence for the presence of dark matter in the universe. Using e+e- collisions collected for an integrated luminosity of 239.3~pb?1, we look for a dimuon mass peak in the reaction e+e- -> mu+mu-gamma, corresponding to the decay U->mu+mu-. We find no evidence for a U vector boson signal. We set a 90% CL upper limit for the mixing parameter squared between the photon and the U boson of 1.6×10^5 to 8.6×10^7 for the mass region 520Determination of the eta prime - proton scattering length in free spaceE. Czerwiński, P. Moskal, M. Silarski, S. D. Bass, D. Grzonka, B. Kamys, A. Khoukaz, J. Klaja, W. Krzemień, W. Oelert, J. Ritman, T. Sefzick, J. Smyrski, A. Täschner, M. Wolke, M. ZielińskiTaking advantage of both the high mass resolution of the COSY--11 detector and the high energy resolution of the low-emittance proton-beam of the Cooler Synchrotron COSY we determine the excitation function for the pp --> pp eta' reaction close-to-threshold. Combining these data with previous results we extract the scattering length for the eta'-proton potential in free space to be Re (a p eta') = 0 +/- 0.43 fm and Im a_(p eta') = 0.37^{+0.40}_{-0.16} fm.Computing support for advanced medical data analysis and imagingW. Wiślicki, T. Bednarski, P. Białas, E. Czerwiński, Ł. Kapłon, A. Kochanowski, G. Korcyl, J. Kowal, P. Kowalski, T. Kozik, W. Krzemień, M. Molenda, P. Moskal, S. Niedźwiecki, M. Pałka, M. Pawlik, L. Raczyński, Z. Rudy, P. Salabura, N.G. Sharma, M. Silarski, A. Słomski, J. Smyrski, A. Strzelecki, A. Wieczorek, M. Zieliński, N. ZońWe discuss computing issues for data analysis and image reconstruction of PET-TOF medical scanner or other medical scanning devices producing large volumes of data. Service architecture based on the grid and cloud concepts for distributed processing is proposed and critically discussed.A novel method based solely on FPGA units enabling measurement of time and charge of analog signals in Positron Emission TomographyM. Pałka, T. Bednarski, P. Białas, E. Czerwiński, Ł. Kapłon, A. Kochanowski, G. Korcyl, J. Kowal, P. Kowalski, T. Kozik, W. Krzemień, M. Molenda, P. Moskal, Sz. Niedźwiecki, M. Pawlik, L. Raczyński, Z. Rudy, P. Salabura, N.G. Sharma, M. Silarski, A. Słomski, J. Smyrski, A. Strzelecki, W. Wiślicki, M. Zieliński, N. ZońThis article presents a novel technique for precise measurement of time and charge based solely on FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array) device and few satellite discrete electronic components used in Positron Emission Tomography (PET). Described approach simplifies electronic circuits, reduces the power consumption, lowers costs, merges front-end electronics with digital electronics and also makes more compact final design. Furthermore, it allows to measure time when analog signals cross a reference voltage at different threshold levels with a very high precision of ? 10ps (rms) and thus enables sampling of signals in a voltage domain.A novel method for calibration and monitoring of time synchronization of TOF-PET scanners by means of cosmic raysM. Silarski, E. Czerwiński, T. Bednarski, P. Moskal, P. Białas, Ł. Kapłon, A. Kochanowski, G. Korcyl, J. Kowal, P. Kowalski, T. Kozik, W. Krzemień, M. Molenda, Sz. Niedźwiecki, M. Pałka, M. Pawlik, L. Raczyński, Z. Rudy, P. Salabura, N.G. Sharma, A. Słomski, J. Smyrski, A. Strzelecki, W. Wiślicki, M. Zieliński, N. ZońAll of the present methods for calibration and monitoring of TOF-PET scanner detectors utilize radioactive isotopes such as e.g. 22Na or 68Ge, which are placed or rotate inside the scanner. In this article we describe a novel method based on the cosmic rays application to the PET calibration and monitoring methods. The concept allows to overcome many of the drawbacks of the present methods and it is well suited for newly developed TOF-PET scanners with a large longitudinal field of view. The method enables also monitoring of the quality of the scintillator materials and in general allows for the continuous quality assurance of the PET detector performance.3D PET image reconstruction based on the maximum likelihood estimation method (MLEM) algorithmA. Słomski, Z. Rudy, T. Bednarski, P. Białas, E. Czerwiński, Ł. Kapłon, A. Kochanowski, G. Korcyl, J. Kowal, P. Kowalski, T. Kozik, W. Krzemień, M. Molenda, P. Moskal, Sz. Niedźwiecki, M. Pałka, M. Pawlik, L. Raczyński, P. Salabura, N. G. Sharma, M. Silarski, J. Smyrski, A. Strzelecki, W. Wiślicki, M. Zieliński, N. ZońA positron emission tomography (PET) scan does not measure an image directly. Instead, a PET scan measures a sinogram at the boundary of the field-of-view that consists of measurements of the sums of all the counts along the lines connecting the two detectors. Because there is a multitude of detectors built in a typical PET structure, there are many possible detector pairs that pertain to the measurement. The problem is how to turn this measurement into an image (this is called imaging). Significant improvement in PET image quality was achieved with the introduction of iterative reconstruction techniques. This was realized approximately 20 years ago (with the advent of new powerful computing processors). However, three-dimensional imaging still remains a challenge. The purpose of the image reconstruction algorithm is to process this imperfect count data for a large number (many millions) of lines of response and millions of detected photons to produce an image showing the distribution of the labeled molecules in space.Trigger-less and reconfigurable data acquisition system for positron emission tomographyG. Korcyl, P. Moskal, T. Bednarski, P. Białas, E. Czerwiński, Ł. Kapłon, A. Kochanowski, J. Kowal, P. Kowalski, T. Kozik, W. Krzemień, M. Molenda, Sz. Niedźwiecki, M. Pałka, M. Pawlik, L. Raczyński, Z. Rudy, P. Salabura, N. G. Sharma, M. Silarski, A. Słomski, J. Smyrski, A. Strzelecki, W. Wiślicki, M. Zieliński, N. ZońThis article is focused on data acquisition system (DAQ) designed especially to be used in positron emission tomography (PET) or single-photon emission computed tomography. The system allows for continuous registration of analog signals during measurement. It has been designed to optimize registration and processing of the information carried by signals from the detector system in PET scanner. The processing does not require any rejection of data with a trigger system. The proposed system possesses also an ability to implement various data analysis algorithms that can be performed in real time during data collection.Determination of the map of efficiency of the Jagiellonian Positron Emission Tomograph (J-PET) detector with the GATE packageP. Kowalski, L. Raczyński, T. Bednarski, P. Białas, E. Czerwiński, K. Giergiel, Ł. Kapłon, A. Kochanowski, G. Korcyl, J. Kowal, T. Kozik, W. Krzemień, M. Molenda, I. Moskal, P. Moskal, Sz. Niedźwiecki, M. Pałka, M. Pawlik-Niedźwiecka, Z. Rudy, P. Salabura, N.G. Sharma, M. Silarski, A. Słomski, J. Smyrski, A. Strzelecki, K. Szymański, W. Wiślicki, P. Witkowski, M. Zieliński, N. ZońA novel PET detector consisting of strips of polymer scintillators is being developed by the J-PET Collaboration. The map of efficiency and the map of geometrical acceptance of the 2-strip J-PET scanner are presented. Map of efficiency was determined using the Monte Carlo simulation software GATE based on GEANT4. Both maps were compared using method based on the chi2 test.Plastic scintillators for positron emission tomography obtained by the bulk polymerization methodŁ. Kapłon, A. Kochanowski, M. Molenda, P. Moskal, A. Wieczorek, T. Bednarski, P. Białas, E. Czerwiński, G. Korcyl, J. Kowal, P. Kowalski, T. Kozik, W. Krzemień, Sz. Niedźwiecki, M. Pałka, M. Pawlik, L. Raczyński, Z. Rudy, P. Salabura, N. G. Sharma, M. Silarski, A. Słomski, J. Smyrski, A. Strzelecki, W. Wiślicki, M. Zieliński, N. ZońThis paper describes three methods regarding the production of plastic scintillators. One method appears to be suitable for the manufacturing of plastic scintillators, revealing properties which fulfill the requirements of novel positron emission tomography scanners based on plastic scintillators. The key parameters of the manufacturing process are determined and discussed.J-PET analysis framework for the prototype TOF-PET detectorW. Krzemień, M. Silarski, K. Stola, D. Trybek, T. Bednarski, P. Białas, E. Czerwiński, Ł. Kapłon, A. Kochanowski, G. Korcyl, J. Kowal, P. Kowalski, T. Kozik, M. Molenda, P. Moskal, Sz. Niedźwiecki, M. Pałka, M. Pawlik, L. Raczyński, Z. Rudy, P. Salabura, N.G. Sharma, A. Słomski, J. Smyrski, A. Strzelecki, W. Wiślicki, M. Zieliński, N. ZońNovel TOF-PET scanner solutions demand, apart from the state of the art detectors, software for fast processing of the gathered data, monitoring of the whole scanner and reconstruction of the PET image. In this article we present an analysis framework for the novel STRIP-PET scanner developed by the J-PET collaboration in the Institute of Physics of the Jagiellonian University. This software is based on the ROOT package used in many particle physics experiments.Database and data structure for the novel TOF-PET detector developed for J-PET projectE. Czerwiński, M. Zieliński, T. Bednarski, P. Białas, Ł. Kapłon, A. Kochanowski, G. Korcyl, J. Kowal, P. Kowalski, T. Kozik, W. Krzemień, E. Kubicz, M. Molenda, P. Moskal, Sz. Niedźwiecki, M. Pałka, M. Pawlik, L. Raczyński, Z. Rudy, P. Salabura, N. G. Sharma, M. Silarski, A. Słomski, J. Smyrski, A. Strzelecki, A. Wieczorek, W.Wiślicki, N. ZońThe complexity of the hardware and the amount of data collected during the PET imaging process require application of modern methods of efficient data organization and processing. In this article we will discuss the data structures and the flow of collected data from the novel TOF-PET medical scanner which is being developed at the Jagiellonian University. The developed data format reflects: registration process of the gamma quanta emitted from positron-electron annihilation, Front-End Electronic (FEE) structure and required input information for the image reconstruction. In addition, the system database fulfills possible demands of the evolving J-PET project.Calibration of photomultipliers gain used in the J-PET detectorT. Bednarski, E. Czerwiński, P. Moskal, P. Białas, K. Giergiel, Ł. Kapłon, A. Kochanowski, G. Korcyl, J. Kowal, P. Kowalski, T. Kozik, W. Krzemień, M. Molenda, I. Moskal, Sz. Niedźwiecki, M. Pałka, M. Pawlik, L. Raczyński, Z. Rudy, P. Salabura, N.G. Sharma, M. Silarski, A. Słomski, J. Smyrski, A. Strzelecki, K. Szymański, W. Wiślicki, P. Witkowski, M. Zieliński, N. ZońPhotomultipliers are commonly used in commercial PET scanner as devices which convert light produced in scintillator by gamma quanta from positron-electron annihilation into electrical signal. For proper analysis of obtained electrical signal, a photomultiplier gain curve must be known, since gain can be significantly different even between photomultipliers of the same model. In this article we describe single photoelectron method used for photomultipliers calibration applied for J-PET scanner, a novel PET detector being developed at the Jagiellonian University. Description of calibration method, an example of calibration curve and gain of few R4998 Hamamatsu photomultipliers are presented.Study of the N N eta' production with COSY-11E. Czerwiński, P. Moskal, M. SilarskiWe describe a new high precision measurement of the production cross-section for the eta' meson in proton-proton collisions for five beam momenta at low access energy region Q conducted at the COSY-11 detection system together with an updated results of all other previous measurements of cross-section for (pp-->pp eta') at COSY-11.List-mode reconstruction in 2D strip PETP. Białas, J. Kowal, A. Strzelecki, T. Bednarski, E. Czerwiński, K. Giergiel, Ł. Kapłon, A. Kochanowski, G. Korcyl, P. Kowalski, T. Kozik, W. Krzemień, M. Molenda, I. Moskal, P. Moskal, S. Niedźwiecki, M. Pałka, M. Pawlik, L. Raczyński, Z. Rudy, P. Salabura, N.G. Sharma, M. Silarski, A. Słomski, J. Smyrski, K. Szymański, W. Wiślicki, P. Witkowski, M. Zieliński, N. ZońUsing a theory of list-mode maximum likelihood expectation-maximization (MLEM) algorithm, in this contribution, we present a derivation of the system response kernel for a novel positron emission tomography (PET) detector based on plastic scintillators.Phenomenology of the ppK+K- System Near ThresholdM. SilarskiIn this article studies of the near threshold pp->ppK+K- reaction conducted with the COSY-11 and the ANKE detectors are reviewed. In particular recent investigations on the K+K? final state interaction are revisited taking into account updated cross sections of the COSY-11 experiment. These studies resulted in the new value of K+K- effective range amounting to: Re(bK+K-)=?0.2+0.8stat +0.4sys?0.6stat ?0.4sys fm and Im(bK+K?)=1.2 +0.5stat +0.3sys ?0.3stat ?0.3sys fm. The determined real and imaginary parts of the K+K? scattering length were estimated to be: |Re(aK+K-)|=10 +17stat ?10stat fm and Im(aK+K?)=0 +37stat ?10stat fm.Test of CPT and Lorentz symmetry in entangled neutral kaons with the KLOE experimentD. Babusci, ..., I. Balwierz-Pytko, E. Czerwiński, A. Gajos, K. Kacprzak, D. Kamińska, P. Moskal, M. Silarski, W. Wiślicki, J. Zdebik et al.Neutral kaon pairs produced in phi decays in anti-symmetric entangled state can be exploited to search for violation of CPT symmetry and Lorentz invariance. We present an analysis of the CP-violating process phi->K_S K_L->pi+pi-pi+pi- based on 1.7 fb-1 of data collected by the KLOE experiment at the Frascati phi-factory DAFNE. The data are used to perform a measurement of the CPT-violating parameters Delta_amu for neutral kaons in the contest of the Standard Model Extension framework. The parameters measured in the reference frame of the fixed stars are: Delta_ao = (-6.0 +- 7.7_{stat} +- 3.1_{syst}) x 10^{-18} GeV Delta_ax = ( 0.9 +- 1.5_{stat} +- 0.6_{syst}) x 10^{-18} GeV Delta_ay = (-2.0 +- 1.5_{stat} +- 0.5_{syst}) x 10^{-18} GeV Delta_az = ( 3.1 +- 1.7_{stat} +- 0.5_{syst}) x 10^{-18} GeV These are presently the most precise measurements in the quark sector of the Standard Model Extension.Simulations of gamma quanta scattering in a single module of the J-PET detectorK. Szymański, P. Moskal, T. Bednarski, P. Białas, E. Czerwiński, K. Giergiel, Ł. Kapłon, A. Kochanowski, G. Korcyl, J. Kowal, P. Kowalski, T. Kozik, W. Krzemień, M. Molenda, I. Moskal, Sz. Niedźwiecki, M. Pałka, M. Pawlik, L. Raczyński, Z. Rudy, P. Salabura, N.G. Sharma, M. Silarski, A. Słomski, J. Smyrski, A. Strzelecki, P. Witkowski, W. Wiślicki, M. Zieliński, N. ZońThis article describes simulations of scattering of annihilation gamma quanta in a strip of plastic scintillator. Such strips constitute basic detection modules in a newly proposed Positron Emission Tomography which utilizes plastic scintillators instead of inorganic crystals. An algorithm simulating chain of Compton scatterings was elaborated and series of simulations have been conducted for the scintillator strip with the cross section of 5 mm x 19 mm. Obtained results indicate that secondary interactions occur only in the case of about 8% of events and out of them only 25% take place in the distance larger than 0.5 cm from the primary interaction. It was also established that light signals produced at primary and secondary interactions overlap with the delay which distribution is characterized by FWHM of about 40 ps.Application of WLS strips for position determination in Strip PET tomograph based on plastic scintillatorsJ. Smyrski, P. Moskal, T. Bednarski, P. Białas, E. Czerwiński, Ł. Kapłon, A. Kochanowski, G. Korcyl, J. Kowal, P. Kowalski, T. Kozik, W. Krzemień, M. Molenda, Sz. Niedźwiecki, M. Pałka, M. Pawlik, L. Raczyński, Z. Rudy, P. Salabura, N.G. Sharma, M. Silarski, A. Słomski, A. Strzelecki, W. Wiślicki, M. Zieliński, N. ZońA method of determination of a gamma quantum absorption point in a plastic scintillator block using a matrix of wavelength-shifting (WLS) strips is proposed. Application of this method for improvement of position resolution in newly proposed PET detectors based on plastic scintillators is presented. The method enables to reduce parallax errors in reconstruction of images which occurs in the presently used Positron Emission Tomography scanners.Phenomenological Studies of the Low Energy Dynamics in the pp K+K- SystemM. SilarskiIn this article we review studies of the near threshold pp ? ppK + K ? reaction done with the COSY-11 and ANKE detectors. We discuss phenomenological studies of the ppK + K ? dynamics, in particular the recent investigations on the K + K ? final state interaction are presented.Combined analysis of the K+K- interaction using near threshold pp-> ppK+K- dataM. Silarski, P. MoskalThe K+K? final state interaction was investigated based on both the K+K? invariant mass distributions measured at excess energies of Q=10 and 28 MeV and the near threshold excitation function for the pp?ppK+K? reaction. The K+K? final state enhancement factor was parametrized using the effective range expansion. The effective range of the K+K? interaction was estimated to be Re(bK+K?)=?0.1?0.4stat?0.3sys fm and Im(bK+K?)=1.2?0.2stat?0.0sys+0.1stat+0.2sys fm, and the determined real and imaginary parts of the K+K? scattering length amount to |Re(aK+K?)|=8.0?4.0stat+6.0stat fm and Im(aK+K?)=0.0?5.0stat+20.0stat fm.A new limit on the CP violating decay KS -> 3pi0 with the KLOE experimentD. Babusci, ..., I. Balwierz-Pytko, E. Czerwiński, P. Moskal, M. Silarski, W. Wiślicki, J. Zdebik et al.We have carried out a new direct search for the CP violating decay KS -> 3pi0 with 1.7 fb^-1 of e+e- collisions collected by the KLOE detector at the phi-factory DAFNE. We have searched for this decay in a sample of about 5.9 x 10^8 KS KL events tagging the KS by means of the KL interaction in the calorimeter and requiring six prompt photons. With respect to our previous search, the analysis has been improved by increasing of a factor four the tagged sample and by a more effective background rejection of fake KS tags and spurious clusters. We find no candidates in data and simulated background samples, while we expect 0.12 standard model events. Normalizing to the number of KS -> 2pi0 events in the same sample, we set the upper limit on BR(KS -> 3pi0 < 2.6 x 10^-8 at 90% C.L., five times lower than the previous limit. We also set the upper limit on the eta_000 parameter, |eta_000 | < 0.0088 at 90% C.L., improving by a factor two the latest direct measurement.TOF-PET detector concept based on organic scintillatorsP. Moskal, T. Bednarski, P. Białas, M. Ciszewska, E. Czerwiński, A. Heczko, M. Kajetanowicz, Ł. Kapłon, A. Kochanowski, G. Konopka-Cupiał, G. Korcyl, W. Krzemień, K. Łojek, J. Majewski, W. Migdał, M. Molenda, S. Niedźwiecki, M. Pałka, Z. Rudy, P. Salabura, M. Silarski, A. Słomski, J. Smyrski, J. Zdebik, M. ZielińskiIn this contribution we present a new concept of the large acceptance detector systems based on organic scintillators which may allow for simultaneous diagnostic of large fraction of the human body. Novelty of the concept lies in employing large blocks of polymer scintillators instead of crystals as detectors of annihilation quanta, and in using predominantly the timing of signals instead of their amplitudes.Strip-PET: a novel detector concept for the TOF-PET scannerP. Moskal, T. Bednarski, P. Białas, M. Ciszewska, E. Czerwiński, A. Heczko, M. Kajetanowicz, Ł. Kapłon, A. Kochanowski, G. Konopka-Cupiał, G. Korcyl, W. Krzemień, K. Łojek, J. Majewski, W. Migdał, M. Molenda, S. Niedźwiecki, M. Pałka, Z. Rudy, P. Salabura, M. Silarski, A. Słomski, J. Smyrski, J. Zdebik, M. ZielińskiWe briefly present a design of a new PET scanner based on strips of polymer scintillators arranged in a barrel constituting a large acceptance detector. The solution proposed is based on the superior timing properties of the polymer scintillators. The position and time of the reaction of the gamma quanta in the detector material will be determined based on the time of arrival of light signals to the edges of the scintillator strips.Measurement of eta meson production in gamma-gamma interactions and Gamma(eta-->gamma gamma) with the KLOE detectorD. Babusci, ..., I. Balwierz-Pytko, E. Czerwiński, P. Moskal, M. Silarski, W. Wiślicki, J. Zdebik et al.We present a measurement of {eta} meson production in photon-photon interactions produced by electron-positron beams colliding with sqrt{s}=1 GeV. The measurement is done with the KLOE detector at the phi-factory DA{Phi}NE with an integrated luminosity of 0.24 fb^{-1}. The e^+e^- --> e^+e^-{eta} cross section is measured without detecting the outgoing electron and positron, selecting the decays {eta}-->{pi}^+{pi}^-{pi}^0 and {eta}-->{pi}^0{pi}^0{pi}^0. The most relevant background is due to e^+e^- --> {eta}{gamma} when the monochromatic photon escapes detection. The cross section for this process is measured as {sigma}(e^+e^- -->{eta}{gamma}) = (856 pm 8_{stat} pm 16_{syst}) pb. The combined result for the e^+e^- -->e^+e^-{eta} cross section is {sigma}(e^+e^- -->e^+e^-{eta}) = (32.72 pm 1.27_{stat} pm 0.70_{syst}) pb. From this we derive the partial width {Gamma}({eta}-->{gamma}{gamma}) = (520 pm 20_{stat} pm 13_{syst}) eV. This is in agreement with the world average and is the most precise measurement to date.Limit on the production of a light vector gauge boson in phi meson decays with the KLOE detectorD. Babusci, ..., I. Balwierz-Pytko, E. Czerwiński, P. Moskal, M. Silarski, W. Wiślicki, J. Zdebik, et alWe present a new limit on the production of a light dark-force mediator with the KLOE detector at DAPHNE. This boson, called U, has been searched for in the decay phi -->eta U, with the hypothesis U-->e+e-, analyzing the decay eta-->pi0pi0pi0 in a data sample of 1.7 fb-1 integrated luminosity. This search is combined with a previous result obtained using the decay eta-->pi+pi-pi0, increasing substantially the sensitivity. No structures are observed in the e+e- invariant mass distribution over the background. Combining the two eta decay modes, we set an upper limit at 90% C.L. on the ratio between the U boson coupling constant and the fine structure constant of alpha'/alpha <= 1.5x10^-5 for 30Precision measurement of sigma(e+e-->pi+pi-gamma)/sigma(e+e-->mu+mu-gamma) and determination of the pi+pi- contribution to the muon anomaly with the KLOE detectorD. Babusci, ..., P. Moskal, E. Czerwiński, I. Balwierz-Pytko, M. Silarski, W. Wiślicki, J. Zdebik et al.We have measured the ratio $sigma(e^+e^- ightarrowpi^+pi^-gamma)/sigma(e^+e^- ightarrow mu^+mu^-gamma)$, with the KLOE detector at DA$Phi$NE for a total integrated luminosity of $sim$ 240 pb$^{-1}$. From this ratio we obtain the cross section $sigma(e^+e^- ightarrowpi^+pi^-)$. From the cross section we determine the pion form factor $|F_pi|^2$ and the two-pion contribution to the muon anomaly $a_mu$ for $0.592Measurement of Gamma(eta->pi^+pi^-gamma)/Gamma(eta->pi^+pi^-pi^0) with the KLOE DetectorD. Babusci, ..., I. Balwierz-Pytko, E. Czerwiński, M. Silarski, P. Moskal, J. Zdebik, et al.Measurement of gamma(eta->pi+pi-gamma)/gamma(eta->pi+pi-pi0) with KLOE experimentD. Babusci, ..., P. Moskal, ..., E. Czerwiński, ..., J. Balwierz, ..., M. Silarski, ..., J. Zdebik et al.We report the measurement of the ratio $Gamma(eta o pi^+pi^-gamma)/Gamma(eta o pi^+pi^-pi^0)$ analyzing a large sample of $phi o eta gamma$ decays recorded with the KLOE experiment at the DA$Phi$NE $e^+ e^-$ collider, corresponding to an integrated luminosity of 558 pb$^{-1}$. The $eta o pi^+pi^-gamma$ process is supposed to proceed both via a resonant contribution, mediated by the $ ho$ meson, and a non resonant direct term, connected to the box anomaly. The presence of the direct term affects the partial width value. Our result $R_{eta}=Gamma(eta o pi^+ pi^- gamma)/Gamma(eta o pi^+ pi^- pi^0)= 0.1838pm 0.0005_{stat} pm 0.0030_{syst}$ is in agreement with a recent CLEO measurement, which differs by more 3 $sigma$ from the average of previous results.Physics topics at KLOE-2M. Silarski on behalf of the KLOE-2 CollaborationThe goal of the KLOE?2 experiment operating at the upgraded DAFNE e+e? collider is to collect an integrated luminosity of about 20 fb?1 over 3-4 years of running. The KLOE?2 apparatus is now equipped with an inner tracker, new scintillation calorimeters and tagging detectors for gamma-gamma physics. These will allow measurements to refine and extend the KLOE programme on kaon physics and tests of fundamental symmetries as well as quantum interferometry. Here the latest results from the KLOE data analysis are presented and the perspectives at KLOE-2 outlined.On the possibility to measure the (pi0 to gamma gamma) decay width and the (gamma* gamma to pi0) transition form factor with the KLOE-2 experimentD. Babusci, ..., and KLOE-2 Collaboration: F. Archilli, ..., I. Balwierz, E. Czerwiński, P. Moskal, M. Silarski, J. Zdebik et al.A possibility of KLOE-2 experiment to measure the width Gamma(pi0 to gamma gamma) and the (pi0 gamma gamma*) form factor F(Q^2) at low invariant masses of the virtual photon in the space-like region is considered. This measurement is an important test of the strong interaction dynamics at low energies. The feasibility is estimated on the basis of a Monte-Carlo simulation. The expected accuracy for Gamma(pi0 to gamma gamma) is at a per cent level, which is better than the current experimental world average and theory. The form factor will be measured for the first time at Q^2 less or equal 0.1 GeV^2 in the space-like region. The impact of these measurements on the accuracy of the pion-exchange contribution to the hadronic light-by-light scattering part of the anomalous magnetic moment of the muon is also discussed.Search for a vector gauge boson in phi meson decays with the KLOE detectorF. Ambrosino, ..., I. Balwierz, E. Czerwiński, P. Moskal, M. Silarski, J. Zdebik et al.The existence of a light dark force mediator has been tested with the KLOE detector at DAFNE. This particle, called U, is searched for using the decay chain phi->eta U, eta->pi+pi-pi0, U->e+e-. No evidence is found in 1.5 fb-1 of data. The resulting exclusion plot covers the mass range 5Novel detector systems for the Positron Emission TomographyP. Moskal, P. Salabura, M. Silarski, J. Smyrski, J. Zdebik, M. ZielińskiIn this contribution we describe a novel solution for the construction of Positron Emission Tomograph. We present the device allowing for determination of the impact position as well as time and depth of interaction of the annihilation gamma quanta. The device is comprised of scintillation chamber consisting of organic scintillators surrounding the body of the patient. We discuss two possible solutions: (i) the tomograph built out of scintillator strips, and (ii) the tomograph built out of the scintillator plates. The application of the fast scintillators will enable to take advantage of the difference between time of the registration of the annihilation quanta. The invented method will permit to use a thick layers of detector material with the possibility of measuring the depth of the gamma quantum interaction (DOI) and the determination of their time of fl ight (TOF), and will allow for increasing the size of the diagnostic chamber without a signifi cant increase of costs. The method is a subject of two patent applications [1, 2] which are based on the techniques used in the particle physics experiments [3, 4].Observation of the rare eta->e+e-e+e- decay with the KLOE experimentF. Ambrosino, ..., I. Balwierz, E. Czerwiński, P. Moskal, M. Silarski, J. Zdebik et al.We report the first observation of the rare eta->e+e-e+e- decay based on 1.7 fb^{-1} collected by the KLOE experiment at the DAFNE phi-factory. The selection of the e+e-e+e- final state is fully inclusive of radiation. We have identified 362 +- 29 events resulting in a branching ratio of (2.4 +- 0.2_stat+bckg +- 0.1_syst) x 10^{-5}.gamma gamma physics with the KLOE experimentF. Archilli, ..., P. Moskal, E. Czerwiński, J. Zdebik, J. Balwierz, M. Silarski et al.The processes $e^+e^- o e^+e^-X$, with $X$ being either the $eta$ meson or $pi^0pi^0$, are studied at DA$Phi$NE, with $e^+e^-$ beams colliding at $sqrt{s}simeq1$ GeV, below the $phi$ resonance peak. The data sample is from an integrated luminosity of 240 pb$^{-1}$, collected by the KLOE experiment without tagging of the outgoing $e^+e^-$. Preliminary results are presented on the observation of the $gammagamma oeta$ process, with both $eta opi^+pi^-pi^0$ and $eta opi^0pi^0pi^0$ channels, and the evidence for $gammagamma opi^0pi^0$ production at low $pi^0pi^0$ invariant mass.Study of the K+K- interaction at COSY-11M. SilarskiIn this article we present studies of the near threshold pp-->ppK+K? reaction in view of the K+K? final state interaction. The investigations include analysis of both the low-energy K+K? invariant mass distributions measured by COSY-11 collaboration at excess energies of Q = 10 MeV and Q = 28 MeV and the near threshold excitation function for the pp-->ppK+K? reaction. As a result of these studies we have estimated the K+K? scattering length more precise compared to the previous analysis based only on the analysis of the differential cross sections.Determination of the total width of the eta-prime mesonE. Czerwiński, P. Moskal, D. Grzonka, R. Czyżykiewicz, D. Gil, B. Kamys, A. Khoukaz, J. Klaja, P. Klaja, W. Krzemień, W. Oelert, J. Ritman, T. Sefzick, M. Siemaszko, M. Silarski, J. Smyrski, A. Täschner, M. Wolke, P. Wüstner, J. Zdebik, M. Zieliński, W. ZipperTaking advantage of both the low-emittance proton beam of the cooler synchrotron COSY and the high momentum precision of the COSY-11 detector system, the mass distribution of the eta-prime meson was measured with a resolution of 0.33??MeV/c2 (FWHM), improving the experimental mass resolution by almost an order of magnitude with respect to previous results. Based on the sample of more than 2300 reconstructed pp->pp eta-prime events, the total width of the eta-prime meson was determined to be Gamma(eta-prime) = 0.226+-0.017(stat)+-0.014(syst)??MeV/c2.Proposal for taking data with the KLOE-2 detector at the DAFNE collider upgraded in energyD. Babusci, ..., P. Moskal, E. Czerwiński, I. Balwierz, M. Silarski, J. Zdebik, et al.This document reviews the physics program of the KLOE-2 detector at DA$Phi$NE upgraded in energy and provides a simple solution to run the collider above the $phi$-peak (up to 2, possibly 2.5 GeV). It is shown how a precise measurement of the multihadronic cross section in the energy region up to 2 (possibly 2.5) GeV would have a major impact on the tests of the Standard Model through a precise determination of the anomalous magnetic moment of the muon and the effective fine-structure constant at the $M_Z$ scale. With a luminosity of about $10^{32}$cm$^{-2}$s$^{-1}$, DA$Phi$NE upgraded in energy can perform a scan in the region from 1 to 2.5 GeV in one year by collecting an integrated luminosity of 20 pb$^{-1}$ (corresponding to a few days of data taking) for single point, assuming an energy step of 25 MeV. A few years of data taking in this region would provide important tests of QCD and effective theories by $gammagamma$ physics with open thresholds for pseudo-scalar (like the $eta'$), scalar ($f_0,f'_0$, etc...) and axial-vector ($a_1$, etc...) mesons; vector-mesons spectroscopy and baryon form factors; tests of CVC and searches for exotics. In the final part of the document a technical solution for the energy upgrade of DA$Phi$NE is proposed.Physics with the KLOE-2 experiment at the upgraded DAFNEG. Amelino-Camelia, ..., E. Czerwiński, P. Moskal, M. Silarski, J. Zdebik et al.Investigation at a $phi$--factory can shed light on several debated issues in particle physics. We discuss: i) recent theoretical development and experimental progress in kaon physics relevant for the Standard Model tests in the flavor sector, ii) the sensitivity we can reach in probing CPT and Quantum Mechanics from time evolution of entangled kaon states, iii) the interest for improving on the present measurements of non-leptonic and radiative decays of kaons and eta/eta$^prime$ mesons, iv) the contribution to understand the nature of light scalar mesons, and v) the opportunity to search for narrow di-lepton resonances suggested by recent models proposing a hidden dark-matter sector. We also report on the $e^+ e^-$ physics in the continuum with the measurements of (multi)hadronic cross sections and the study of gamma gamma processes.Two-proton correlation function for the pp -> pp + eta and pp to pp + pions reactionsP. Klaja, P. Moskal, E. Czerwiński, R. Czyżykiewicz, A. Deloff, D. Gil, D. Grzonka, B. Kamys, A. Khoukaz, J. Klaja, W. Krzemień, W. Oelert, J. Ritman, T. Sefzick, M. Siemaszko, M. Silarski, J. Smyrski, A. Täschner, M. Wolke, J. Zdebik, M. Zieliński, W. ZipperFor the very first time, the correlation femtoscopy method is applied to a kinematically complete measurement of meson production in the collisions of hadrons. A two-proton correlation function was derived from the data for the pp -> ppX reaction, measured near the threshold of eta meson production. A technique developed for the purpose of this analysis permitted the correlation function to be established separately for the production of the pp + eta and of the pp + pions systems. The shape of the two-proton correlation function for pp-eta differs from that for pp(pions) and both do not show a peak structure, opposite to the results determined for inclusive measurements of heavy ion collisions.Two-proton correlation function for the pp -> pp plus eta and pp -> pp plus pions reactionsP. Klaja, P. Moskal, E. Czerwinski, R. Czyzykiewicz, A. Deloff, D. Gil, D. Grzonka, B. Kamys, A. Khoukaz, J. Klaja, W. Krzemien, W. Oelert, J. Ritman, T. Sefzick, M. Siemaszko, M. Silarski, J. Smyrski, A. Taschner, M. Wolke, J. Zdebik, M. Zielinski, W. ZipperFor the very first time, the correlation femtoscopy method is applied to a kinematically complete measurement of meson production in the collisions of hadrons. A two-proton correlation function was derived from the data for the pp -> ppX reaction, measured near the threshold of eta meson production. A technique developed for the purpose of this analysis permitted the correlation function to be established separately for the production of the pp + eta and of the pp + pions systems. The shape of the two-proton correlation function for pp eta differs from that for pp(pions) and both do not show a peak structure, opposite to the results determined for inclusive measurements of heavy ion collisions.Upper limit of the total cross section for the pn->pn eta-prime reactionJ. Klaja, P. Moskal, S. D. Bass, E. Czerwiński, R. Czyżykiewicz, D. Gil, D. Grzonka, T. Johansson, B. Kamys, A. Khoukaz, P. Klaja, W. Krzemień, W. Oelert, B. Rejdych, J. Ritman, T. Sefzick, M. Siemaszko, M. Silarski, J. Smyrski, A. Täschner, M. Wolke, P. Wüstner, J. Zdebik, M. Zieliński, W. ZipperThe upper limit of the total cross section for the pn->pneta-prime reaction has been determined near the kinematical threshold in the excess energy range from 0 to 24 MeV. The measurement was performed using the COSY-11 detector setup, a deuteron cluster target, and the proton beam of COSY with a momentum of 3.35 GeV/c. The energy dependence of the upper limit of the cross section was extracted exploiting the Fermi momenta of nucleons inside the deuteron. Comparison of the determined upper limit of the ratio R(eta-prime)=sigma(pn->pneta-prime)/sigma(pp->ppeta-prime) with the corresponding ratio for eta-meson production does not favor the dominance of the N*(1535) resonance in the production process of the eta-prime meson and suggests nonidentical production mechanisms for eta and eta-prime mesons.Measurement of the invariant mass distributions fot he pp->pp eta-prime reaction at excess energy of Q = 16.4 MeVP. Klaja, P. Moskal, E. Czerwiński, R. Czyżykiewicz, A. Deloff, D. Gil, D. Grzonka, L. Jarczyk, B. Kamys, A. Khoukaz, J. Klaja, K. Nakayama, W. Oelert, J. Ritman, T. Sefzick, M. Siemaszko, M. Silarski, J. Smyrski, A. Täschner, M. Wolke, J. Zdebik, M. Zieliński, W. ZipperThe proton?proton and proton? invariant mass distributions have been determined for the reaction at an excess energy of . The measurement was carried out using the COSY-11 detector setup and the proton beam of the cooler synchrotron COSY. The shapes of the determined invariant mass distributions are similar to those of the reaction and reveal an enhancement for large relative proton?proton momenta. This result, together with the fact that the proton?? interaction is much stronger that the proton? interaction, excludes the hypothesis that the observed enhancement is caused by the interaction between the proton and the meson.Upper limit of the total cross section for the pn -> pn eta' reactionJ. Klaja, P. Moskal, SD. Bass, E. Czerwinski, R. Czyzykiewicz, D. Gil, D. Grzonka, T. Johansson, B. Kamys, A. Khoukaz, P. Klaja, W. Krzemien, W. Oelert, B. Rejdych, J. Ritman, T. Sefzick, M. Siemaszko, M. Silarski, J. Smyrski, A. Taschner, M. Wolke, P. Wustner, J. Zdebik, M. Zielinski, W. ZipperThe upper limit of the total cross section for the pn -> pn eta' reaction has been determined near the kinematical threshold in the excess energy range from 0 to 24 MeV. The measurement was performed using the COSY-11 detector setup, a deuteron cluster target, and the proton beam of COSY with a momentum of 3.35 GeV/c. The energy dependence of the upper limit of the cross section was extracted exploiting the Fermi momenta of nucleons inside the deuteron. Comparison of the determined upper limit of the ratio R-eta' = sigma(pn -> pn eta')/sigma(pp -> pp eta') with the corresponding ratio for eta-meson production does not favor the dominance of the N*(1535) resonance in the production process of the eta' meson and suggests nonidentical production mechanisms for eta and eta' mesons.Technical Design Report of the Inner Tracker for the KLOE-2 experimentF. Archilli, ..., E. Czerwiński, J. Balwierz, P. Moskal, M. Silarski, J. Zdebik, et al.The technical design report of the Inner Tracker for the KLOE-2 experiment is presentedMeasurement of the invariant mass distributions for the pp -> pp eta ' reaction at excess energy of Q=16.4 MeVP. Klaja, P. Moskal, E. Czerwinski, R. Czyzykiewicz, A. Deloff, D. Gil, D. Grzonka, L. Jarczyk, B. Kamys, A. Khoukaz, J. Klaja, K. Nakayama, W. Oelert, J. Ritman, T. Sefzick, M. Siemaszko, M. Silarski, J. Smyrski, A. Taschner, M. Wolke, J. Zdebik, M. Zielinski, W. ZipperThe proton-proton and proton-eta' invariant mass distributions have been determined for the pp -> pp eta' reaction at an excess energy of Q = 16.4 MeV. The measurement was carried Out using the COSY-11 detector setup and the proton beam of the cooler synchrotron COSY. The shapes of the determined invariant mass distributions are similar to those of the pp -> pp eta reaction and reveal an enhancement for large relative proton-proton momenta. This result, together with the fact that the proton-eta interaction is Much stronger that the proton-eta' interaction, excludes the hypothesis that the observed enhancement is caused by the interaction between the proton and the meson. (C) 2010 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.Invariant-mass distributions for the pp -> pp eta reaction at Q=10 MeVP. Moskal, R. Czyzykiewicz, E. Czerwinski, D. Gil, D. Grzonka, L. Jarczyk, B. Kamys, A. Khoukaz, J. Klaja, P. Klaja, W. Krzemien, W. Oelert, J. Ritman, T. Sefzick, M. Siemaszko, M. Silarski, J. Smyrski, A. Taschner, M. Wolke, P. Wustner, J. Zdebik, MJ. Zielinski, W. ZipperProton-proton and proton-eta invariant-mass distributions and the total cross-section for the pp -> pp eta reaction have been determined near the threshold at an excess energy of Q = 10 MeV. The experiment has been conducted using the COSY-11 detector setup and the cooler synchrotron COSY. The determined invariant-mass spectra reveal significant enhancements in the region of low proton-proton relative momenta, similarly as observed previously at higher excess energies of Q = 15.5 MeV and Q = 40 MeV.Invariant mass distributions for the pp->pp eta reaction at Q = 10 MeVP. Moskal, R. Czyżykiewicz, E. Czerwiński, D. Gil, D. Grzonka, L. Jarczyk, B. Kamys, A. Khoukaz, J. Klaja, P. Klaja, W. Krzemień, W. Oelert, J. Ritman, T. Sefzick, M. Siemaszko, M. Silarski, J. Smyrski, A. Taschner, M. Wolke, P. Wustner, J. Zdebik, M. Zieliński, W. ZipperProton-proton and proton-eta invariant-mass distributions and the total cross-section for the pp -> pp h reaction have been determined near the threshold at an excess energy of Q = 10 MeV. The experiment has been conducted using the COSY-11 detector setup and the cooler synchrotron COSY. The determined invariant-mass spectra reveal significant enhancements in the region of low proton-proton relative momenta, similarly as observed previously at higher excess energies of Q = 15.5 MeV and Q = 40 MeV.Generalized Dalitz plot analysis of the near-threshold pp -> ppK(+)K(-) reaction in view of the K+K- final state interactionM. Silarski, P. Moskal, E. Czerwinski, R. Czyzykiewicz, D. Gil, D. Grzonka, L. Jarczyk, B. Kamys, A. Khoukaz, J. Klaja, P. Klaja, W. Krzemien, W. Oelert, J. Ritman, T. Sefzick, M. Siemaszko, J. Smyrski, A. Taschner, P. Winter, M. Wolke, P. Wustner, M. Zielinski, W. Zipper, J. ZdebikThe excitation function for the pp -> ppK(+)K(-) reaction revealed a significant enhancement close to threshold that may plausibly be assigned to the influence of the pK(-) and K+K- final-state interactions. In an improved reanalysis of COSY-11 data for the pp -> ppK(+)K(-) reaction at excess energies of Q = 10 and 28 MeV, including the proton-K- interaction, the enhancement is confirmed. Invariant mass distributions for the two- and three-particle subsystems allow us to test at low excess energies the ansatz and parameters for the description of the interaction in the ppK(+)K(-) system as derived from the COSY-ANKE data. Finally, based for the first time on the low-energy K+K- invariant mass distributions and the generalized Dalitz plot analysis, we estimate the scattering length for the K+K- interaction to be vertical bar Re(a(K+K-))vertical bar = 0.5(-0.5)(+4.0) fm and Im(a(K+K-)) = 3.0 +/- 3.0 fm.Generalized Dalitz plot analysis of the near-threshold pp->ppK+K- reaction in view of the K+K- final state interactionM. Silarski, P. Moskal, E. Czerwiński, R. Czyżykiewicz, D. Gil, D. Grzonka, L. Jarczyk, B. Kamys, A. Khoukaz, J. Klaja, P. Klaja, W. Krzemień, W. Oelert, J. Ritman, T. Sefzick, M. Siemaszko, J. Smyrski, A. Täschner, P. Winter, M. Wolke, P. Wüstner, M. Zieliński, W. Zipper, J. ZdebikThe excitation function for the pp->ppK+K- reaction revealed a significant enhancement close to threshold which may plausibly be assigned to the influence of the pK- and K+K- final state interactions. In an improved reanalysis of COSY-11 data for the pp-> ppK+K- reaction at excess energies of Q = 10 MeV and 28 MeV including the proton-K- interaction the enhancement is confirmed. Invariant mass distributions for the two- and three-particle subsystems allow to test at low excess energies the ansatz and parameters for the description of the interaction in the ppK+K- system as derived from the COSY-ANKE data. Finally, based for the first time on the low energy K+K- invariant mass distributions and the generalized Dalitz plot analysis, we estimate the scattering length for the K+K- interaction to be |Re(a_K+K-)| = 0.5 + 4.0 -0.5 fm and Im(a_K+K-) = 3.0 +- 3.0 fm.Near-threshold production of the eta meson via the quasi-free pn->pneta reactionP. Moskal, R. Czyżykiewicz, H.-H. Adam, S. D. Bass, A. Budzanowski, E. Czerwiński, D. Gil, D. Grzonka, M. Janusz, L. Jarczyk, T. Johansson, B. Kamys, A. Khoukaz, K. Kilian, P. Klaja, J. Majewski, W. Oelert, C. Piskor-Ignatowicz, J. Przerwa, B. Rejdych, J. Ritman, T. Rozek, T. Sefzick, M. Siemaszko, M. Silarski, J. Smyrski, A. Taeschner, M. Wolke, P. Wuestner, M. Zieliński, W. Zipper, J. ZdebikTotal cross sections for the quasifree pn->pn? reaction in the range from the kinematical threshold up to 20 MeV excess energy have been determined. At threshold they exceed corresponding cross sections for the pp?pp? reaction by a factor of about 3 in contrast to the factor of 6 established for higher excess energies. To large extent, the observed decrease of the ratio sigma(pn->pn?)/sigma(pp->pp?) toward threshold may be assigned to the different energy dependence of the proton-proton and proton-neutron final-state interactions. The experiment was conducted using a proton beam of the cooler synchrotron COSY and a cluster jet deuteron target. The proton-neutron reactions were tagged by the spectator proton whose momentum was measured for each event. Protons and neutron outgoing from the pn?pn? reaction have been registered by means of the COSY-11 facility, an apparatus dedicated for threshold meson production.Isospin dependence of the eta-prime meson production in nucleon-nucleon collisionsJ. Przerwa, P. Moskal, A. Budzanowski, E. Czerwiński, R. Czyżykiewicz, D. Gil, D. Grzonka, L. Jarczyk, T. Johansson, B. Kamys, A. Khoukaz, P. Klaja, W. Krzemień, W. Oelert, C. Piskor-Ignatowicz, J. Ritman, B. Rejdych, T. Sefzick, M. Siemaszko, M. Silarski, J. Smyrski, A. Taschner, M. Wolke, P. Wustner, J. Zdebik, M. Zieliński, W. ZipperA comparison of the close-to-threshold total cross section for the eta prime production in pp -> pp eta prime and pn -> pn eta prime reactions constitutes a tool to investigate the eta prime meson structure and the reaction mechanism in the channels of isospin I=0 and I=1 and may provide insight into the flavour-singlet (perhaps also into gluonium) content of the eta prime meson. In this contribution we present preliminary results of measurement of the quasi-free production of the eta prime meson in the proton-neutron collisions conducted using the COSY-11 facility.ISOSPIN DEPENDENCE OF THE eta ' MESON PRODUCTION IN NUCLEON-NUCLEON COLLISIONSJ. Przerwa, P. Moskal, A. Budzanowski, E. Czerwinski, R. Czyzykiewicz, D. Gil, D. Grzonka, L. Jarczyk, T. Johansson, B. Kamys, A. Khoukaz, P. Klaja, W. Krzemien, W. Oelert, C. Piskor-Ignatowicz, J. Ritman, B. Rejdych, T. Sefzick, M. Siemaszko, M. Silarski, J. Smyrski, A. Taschner, M. Wolke, P. Wustner, J. Zdebik, MJ. Zielinski, W. ZipperA comparison of the close-to-threshold total cross section for the eta' production in pp -> pp eta' and pn -> pn eta' reactions constitutes a tool to investigate the eta' meson structure and the reaction mechanism in the channels of isospin I = 0 and I = 1 and may provide insight into the flavour-singlet (perhaps also into gluonium) content of the eta' meson. In this contribution we present preliminary results of measurement of the quasifree production of the eta' meson in the proton-neutron collisions conducted using the COSY-11 facility.SEARCH FOR THE He-3-eta BOUND STATE AT COSY-11W. Krzemien, J. Smyrski, A. Budzanowski, E. Czerwinski, R. Czyzykiewicz, D. Gil, D. Grzonka, L. Jarczyk, B. Kamys, A. Khoukaz, P. Klaja, P. Moskal, W. Oelert, J. Przerwa, J. Ritman, T. Sefzick, M. Siemaszko, M. Silarski, A. Taschner, M. Wolke, P. Wustner, J. Zdebik, MJ. Zielinski, W. ZipperWe have measured excitation function for dp -> ppp pi(-) reaction near the. production threshold. We observe an enhancement of the counting rate above the threshold which can originate from the production of the. meson in the reaction dp -> He-3 eta and its subsequent absorption on neutron in the 3He nucleus leading to creation of the p pi(-) pair.Search for the 3He-eta bound state at COSY-11W. Krzemien, J. Smyrski, A. Budzanowski, E. Czerwiński, R. Czyżykiewicz, D. Gil, D. Grzonka, L. Jarczyk, B. Kamys, A. Khoukaz, P. Klaja, P. Moskal, W. Oelert, J. Przerwa, J. Ritman, T. Sefzick, M. Siemaszko, M. Silarski, A. Taeschner, M. Wolke, P. Wuestner, J. Zdebik, M. Zieliński, W. ZipperWe have measured excitation function for dp -> ppp_pi- reaction near the eta production threshold. We observe an enhancement of the counting rate above the threshold which can originate from the production of the eta meson in the reaction dp -> 3He eta and its subsequent absorption on neutron in the 3He nucleus leading to creation of the p_pi- pair.Near-threshold production of the eta meson via the quasifree pn -> pn eta reactionP. Moskal, R. Czyzykiewicz, HH. Adam, SD. Bass, A. Budzanowski, E. Czerwinski, D. Gil, D. Grzonka, M. Janusz, L. Jarczyk, T. Johansson, B. Kamys, A. Khoukaz, K. Kilian, P. Klaja, J. Majewski, W. Oelert, C. Piskor-Ignatowicz, J. Przerwa, B. Rejdych, J. Ritman, T. Rozek, T. Sefzick, M. Siemaszko, M. Silarski, J. Smyrski, A. Taschner, M. Wolke, P. Wustner, M. Zielinski, W. Zipper, J. ZdebikTotal cross sections for the quasifree pn -> pn eta reaction in the range from the kinematical threshold up to 20 MeV excess energy have been determined. At threshold they exceed corresponding cross sections for the pn -> pn eta reaction by a factor of about 3 in contrast to the factor of 6 established for higher excess energies. To large extent, the observed decrease of the ratio s(pn -> pn eta)/s=sigma(pn -> pn eta) toward threshold may be assigned to the different energy dependence of the proton-proton and proton-neutron final-state interactions. The experiment was conducted using a proton beam of the cooler synchrotron COSY and a cluster jet deuteron target. The proton- neutron reactions were tagged by the spectator proton whose momentum was measured for each event. Protons and neutron outgoing from the pn -> pn eta reaction have been registered by means of the COSY-11 facility, an apparatus dedicated for threshold meson production.Study of the hadronic production of kaon pairs below the threshold for the phi mesonP. Moskal, M. Silarski, A. Budzanowski, E. Czerwinski, R. Czyzykiewic, D. Gil, D. Grzonka, M. Janusz, L. Jarczyk, B. Kamys, A. Khoukaz, P. Klaja, W. Oelert, C. Piskor-Ignatowicz, J. Przerwa, B. Rejdych, J. Ritman, T. Sefzick, M. Siemaszko, J. Smyrski, A. Taschner, P. Winter, M. Wolke, P. Wustner, MJ. Zielinski, W. Zipper, J. ZdebikThe near threshold production of K(+)K(-) pairs in proton-proton collisions has been investigated at the cooler synchrotron COSY below and above the threshold for the phi meson using the COSY-11 and ANKE facilities., respectively. The excitation function determined for the pp -> ppK(+)K(-) reaction revealed a statistically significant enhancement close to the threshold which may plausibly be assigned to the influence of the K(-)p interaction. In addition, observed consistently by both groups, a strong enhancement at low values of the ratio of the K(-)p to K(+)p invariant mass distributions shows that the proton interacts much stronger with K(-) than with K(+). In this report we focus on the measurements performed by the COSY-11 collaboration. We explain the experimental method used and present main results of completed analyses as well as a new qualitative elaboration of the ppK(+)K(-) events population on the Goldhaber plot. We conclude with the observation that event densities increase at the region where the influence from the K(+)K(-) interaction is expected.Near threshold production of the pseudoscalar mesons at the COSY-11 facilityP. Moskal, R. Czyzykiewicz, HH. Adam, A. Budzanowski, E. Czerwinski, D. Gil, D. Grzonka, M. Janusz, L. Jarczyk, B. Kamys, A. Khoukaz, X. Kilian, P. Klaja, W. Oelert, C. Piskor-Ignatowicz, J. Przerwa, B. Rejdych, J. Ritman, T. Sefzick, M. Siemaszko, M. Silarski, J. Smyrski, A. Taschner, M. Wolke, P. Winter, P. Wustner, M. Zielinski, W. ZipperWe summarise measurements of the COSY-11 collaboration concerning the excitation functions of the near threshold pseudoscalar meson production in the proton-proton interaction. The results are discussed in the context of the meson-nucleon and hyperon-nucleon interactions. We conclude that the eta-proton interaction is significantly stronger than the eta'-proton interaction. Similarly, we found that the hyperon Lambda interacts with the nucleon considerably stronger than the hyperon Sigma, and that the interaction of K--proton is much stronger than this of the K+-proton.Dynamics of the near threshold eta meson production in proton-proton interactionR. Czyzykiewicz, P. MoSkal, HH. Adam, A. Budzanowski, E. Czerwinski, D. Gil, D. Grzonka, M. Hodana, M. Janusz, L. Jarczyk, B. Kamys, A. Khoukaz, K. Kilian, P. Klaja, B. Lorentz, W. Oelert, C. Piskor-Ignatowicz, J. Przerwa, B. Rejdych, J. Ritman, T. Sefzick, M. Siemaszko, M. Silarski, J. Smyrski, A. Taschner, K. Ulbrich, P. Winter, M. Wolke, P. Wustner, M. Zielinski, W. ZipperWe present the results of measurements of the analysing power for the pp -> pp eta reaction at the excess energies of Q = 10 and 36 MeV, and interpret these results within the framework of the meson exchange models. The determined values of the analysing power at both excess energies are consistent with zero implying that the eta meson is produced predominantly in s-wave.Study of the low energy interaction of hadrons at COSY-11P. Moskal, R. Czyżykiewicz, E. Czerwiński, D. Grzonka, A. Budzanowski, D. Gil, M. Janusz, L. Jarczyk, B. Kamys, A. Khoukaz, P. Klaja, W. Oelert, C. Piskor-Ignatowicz, J. Przerwa, B. Rejdych, J. Ritman, T. Sefzick, M. Siemaszko, M. Silarski, J. Smyrski, A. Täschner, M. Wolke, P. Wüstner, M. Zieliński, W. ZipperWe summarize the studies of the low energy hadronic interaction of the KK and pK system performed by the COSY-11 collaboration. We discuss also the question of the existence of the ??3He bound state in the context of the experiments conducted by means of the COSY-11 facilityDirect measurement of the total width of the eta prime mesonE. Czerwiński, P. Moskal, D. Grzonka, A. Budzanowski, R. Czyżykiewiczy, D. Gil, M. Janusz, L. Jarczyk, B. Kamys, A. Khoukaz, P. Klaja, W. Oelert, C. Piskor-Ignatowicz, J. Przerwa, B. Rejdych, J. Ritman, T. Sefzick, M. Siemaszko, M. Silarski, J. Smyrski, A. Täschner, M. Wolke, P. Wüstner, M. Zieliński, W. ZipperUsing stochastically cooled proton beam of the cooler synchrotron COSY and the COSY-11 apparatus we have measured the mass distribution of the eta prime meson producing it via the pp->ppeta' reaction. The preliminary analysis shows that the achieved experimental mass resolution amounts to about 0.3 MeV (FWHM). Such precision with about 2300 events gathered at five excess energies should permit for the extraction of the width of the eta' meson with an accuracy of about 10 keV. In this article we describe the method of the mea-surement and present preliminary results.
- Kaonic helium-4 L-series yield measurement at 2.25 g/l density by SIDDHARTA-2 at DAFNEF. Sgaramella, M. Bazzi, A. Clozza, C. Curceanu, L. De Paolis, K. Dulski, C. Guaraldo, M. Iliescu, A. Khreptak, S. Manti, F. Napolitano, A. Scordo, F. Sirghi, A. Spallone, M. Miliucci, F. Artibani, F. Clozza, M. Cargnelli, J. Marton, M. Tüchler, J. Zmeskal, L. Abbene, A. Buttacavoli, F. Principato, D. Bosnar, I. Friščić, M. Bragadireanu, G. Borghi, M. Carminati, G. Deda, C. Fiorini, R. Del Grande, M. Iwasaki, P. Moskal, S. Niedźwiecki, M. Silarski, M. Skurzok, H. Ohnishi, K. Toho, C. Yoshida, D. Sirghi, K. Piscicchiapublished in: Acta Phys. Pol. B Proc. Suppl. 17 (2024) 1-A8This article presents the results of the kaonic helium-4 measurement conducted by the SIDDHARTA-2 experiment, aiming to provide crucial insights into the low-energy strong interaction in the strangeness sector. High-precision X-ray spectroscopy is used to examine the interaction between negatively charged kaons and nuclei in atomic systems. The SIDDHARTA-2setup was optimized through the kaonic helium-4 measurement in preparation for the challenging kaonic deuterium measurement. The kaonic helium-4 measurement at a new density of 2.25 g/l is reported, providing the absolute and relative yields for the L-series transitions, which are essential data for understanding kaonic atom cascade processes.
- The measurement of the E2 nuclear resonance effects in kaonic atoms at DA?NE: The KAMEO proposalL. De Paolis, L. Abbene, M. Bazzi, M. Bettelli, G. Borghi, D. Bosnar, M. Bragadireanu, A. Buttacavoli, M. Cargnelli, M. Carminati, A. Clozza, G. Deda, R. Del Grande, K. Dulski, C. Fiorini, I. Friscic, C. Guaraldo, M. Iliescu, M. Iwasaki, A. Khreptak, S. Manti, J. Marton, M. Miliucci, P. Moskal, F. Napolitano, S. Niedźwiecki, J. Obertova, O. Ohnishi, K. Piscicchia, F. Principato, Y. Sada, A. Scordo, F. Sgaramella, M. Silarski, D.L. Sirghi, F. Sirghi, M. Skurzok, S. Wycech, A. Spallone, K. Toho, M. Tüchler, C. Yoshida, A. Zappettini, J. Zmeskal, C. Curceanupublished in: EPJ Web of Conferences 291, 05003 (2024)KAMEO (Kaonic Atoms Measuring Nuclear Resonance Effects Ob-servables) is a proposal for an experiment aiming to perform the first consistent measurement of the E2 nuclear resonance effects in kaonic molybdenum A=94,96,98,100 isotopes. The E2 nuclear resonance mixes atomic states, due to the electrical quadrupole excitation of nuclear rotational states. It occurs in atoms having the energy of a nuclear excitation state closely matching an atomic de-excitation state energy, and affects the rates of X-ray atomic transitions matching the energy of the resonance. The measurement E2 nuclear resonance effect in KMO isotopes allows the study of the strong kaon-nucleus interaction in a rotational excited nuclear state. Moreover, the effect enables the K- to access an inner atomic level not easily reachable by the kaon normal cascade, due to the nuclear absorption. The KAMEO proposed apparatus consists of 4 enriched Mo A=94,96,98,100 isotope strips, exposed to the kaons produced by the DA?NE collider, for kaonic atoms formation, with a high-purity germanium detector, cooled with liquid nitrogen, used to measure the X-ray atomic transitions. The DA?NE collider is located at the National Laboratories of Frascati (LNF-INFN), in Italy. It is already suited for kaonic atoms measurement by the SIDDHARTA-2 collaboration.
- Kaonic atoms with SIDDHARTA-2 at the DAFNE colliderF. Sirghi, L. Abbene, M. Bazzi, D. Bosnar, M. Bragadireanu, A. Buttacavoli, M. Cargnelli, M. Carminati, A. Clozza, G. Deda, R. Del Grande, K. Dulski, L. De Paolis, C. Fiorini, I. Friscic, C. Guaraldo, M. Iliescu, M. Iwasaki, A. Khreptak, S. Manti, J. Marton, M. Miliucci, P. Moskal, F. Napolitano, F. Sgaramella, S. Niedźwiecki, O. Ohnishi, K. Piscicchia, Y. Sada, A. Scordo, M. Silarski, D.L. Sirghi, M. Skurzok, A. Spallone, S. Wycech, K. Toho, M. Tüchler, C. Yoshida, J. Zmeskal, C. Curceanupublished in: EPJ Web of Conferences 291, 01008 (2024). The most important information still missing in the field of the low-energy antikaon-nucleon interactions studies is the experimental determination of the hadronic energy shift and width of kaonic deuterium. This measurement will be performed by the SIDDHARTA-2 experiment, installed at the DA?NE collider and presently in data taking campaign. The precise measurement of the shift and width of the 1s level with respect to the purely electromagnetic calculated values, generated by the presence of the strong interaction, through the measurement of the X-ray transitions to this level, in kaonic hydrogen, was performed by the SIDDHARTA collaboration, the kaonic deuterium is underway by SIDDHARTA-2. These measurement will allow the first precise experimental extraction of the isospin dependent antikaon-nucleon scattering lengths, fundamental quantities for understanding low-energy QCD in the strangeness sector. The experimental challenge of the kaonic deuterium measurement is the very small X-rays yield, the even larger width (compared to kaonic hydrogen), and the difficulty to perform X-rays spectroscopy with weak signals in the high radiation environment of DA?NE. It was, therefore, crucial to develop a new apparatus involving large-area X-rays detector system, to optimize the signal and to control and by improve the signal-to-background ratio by gaining in solid angle, increasing the timing capability, and as well implementing additional charge particle tracking veto systems.
- SIDDHARTA-2 veto system design and performance for kaonic atoms studies at DAFNEF. Sgaramella, M. Bazzi, D. Bosnar, M. Bragadireanu, M. Cargnelli, M. Carminati, A. Clozza, G. Deda, R. Del Grande, K. Dulski, L. De Paolis, L. Fabbietti, C. Fiorini, I. Friscic, C. Guaraldo, M. Iliescu, M. Iwasaki, A. Khreptak, S. Manti, J. Marton, M. Miliucci, P. Moskal, F. Napolitano, S. Niedźwiecki, H. Ohnishi, K. Piscicchia, Y. Sada, A. Scordo, M. Silarski, D. Sirghi, F. Sirghi, M. Skurzok, A. Spallone, K. Toho, M. Tuchler, C. Yoshida, J. Zmeskal, C. Curceanupublished in: EPJ Web Conf. 290 (2023) 06005Light kaonic atoms spectroscopy provides a unique approach to study the low-energy strong interaction in the strangeness sector. Precise measurements of X-ray emission from light kaonic atoms provide valuable information on kaon-nucleus interaction at threshold without the need for extrapolation as required in scattering experiments. The SIDDHARTA-2 experiment at the DA?NE collider of INFN-LNF is now poised to perform the challenging measurements of the K?- d 2p -> 1s transition to extract the isospin-dependent antikaonnucleon scattering lengths. To achieve this goal, the background reduction is a crucial factor. This paper provides an overview of the SIDDHARTA-2 Veto-1 system, which uses scintillators outside the vacuum chamber to detect charged particles produced by K? absorption by the nucleus. The arrival time of these particles is correlated with the position where the kaonic atom has been created inside the setup, allowing for the rejection of kaons stopped outside the target cell, which is a critical component for reducing the background and improve the accuracy of the measurement.
- Investigating the E2 Nuclear Resonance Effects in Kaonic Atoms: The KAMEO ProposalL. De Paolis, D. Bosnar, M. Bragadireanu, M. Cargnelli, M. Carminati, A. Clozza, G. Deda, R. Del Grande, K. Dulski, C. Fiorini, I. Friscic, C. Guaraldo, M. Iliescu, M. Iwasaki, A. Khreptak, S. Manti, J. Marton, M. Miliucci, P. Moskal, F. Napolitano, S. Niedźwiecki, O. Ohnishi, K. Piscicchia, Y. Sada, A. Scordo, F. Sgaramella, M. Silarski, D.L. Sirghi, F. Sirghi, M. Skurzok, S. Wycech, A. Spallone, K. Toho, M. Tüchler, C. Yoshida, J. Zmeskal, C. Curceanupublished in: EPJ Web of Conferences 290, 06003 (2023)The E2 nuclear resonance effect in kaonic atoms occurs when the energy of atomic de-excitation closely matches the energy of nuclear excitation, leading to the attenuation of some X-ray lines in the resonant isotope target. This phenomenon provides crucial information on the strong interaction between kaons and nuclei. The only nuclear E2 resonance effect observed so far was in the K? ?9842Mo isotope, measured by G. L. Goldfrey, G-K. Lum, and C. E. Wiegand at Lawrence Berkeley Laboratory in 1975. However, the 25 hours of data taking were not sufficient to yield conclusive results. In four kaonic Molybdenum isotopes (9442Mo, 9642Mo, 9842and Mo, and 10042Mo), the nuclear E2 resonance effect is expected to occur at the same transition with similar energy values. To investigate this, the KAMEO (Kaonic Atoms Measuring Nuclear Resonance Effects Observables) experiment plans to conduct research on kaonic Molybdenum isotopes at the DA?NE e+e? collider during the SIDDHARTA-2 experiment. The experimental strategy involves exposing four solid strip targets, each enriched with one Molybdenum isotope, to negatively charged kaons and using a germanium detector to measure X-ray transitions. In addition, a non-resonant 9242Mo isotope solid strip target will be used as a reference for standard non-resonant transitions.
- Towards the first kaonic deuterium measurement with the SIDDHARTA-2 experimentC. Curceanu, L. De Paolis, M. Bazzi, D. Bosnar, M. Bragadireanu, M. Cargnelli, M. Carminati, A. Clozza, G. Deda, K. Dulski, C. Fiorini, I. Friščić, C. Guaraldo, M. Iliescu, M. Iwasaki, A. Khreptak, P. Levi Sandri, S. Manti, J. Marton, M. Miliucci, P. Moskal, F. Napolitano, S. Niedźwiecki, H. Onishi, K. Piscicchia, Y. Sada, A. Scordo, F. Sgaramella, M. Silarski, D. L. Sirghi, F. C. Sirghi, M. Skurzok, A. Spallone, K. Toho, M. Tuchler, C. Yoshida, J. Zmeskalpublished in: PoS CORFU2022 (2023) 039The SIDDHARTA-2 experiment is presently installed at the interaction point of the DA??NE electron-positron collider of the National Laboratories of Frascati (LNF-INFN), in Italy, ready to perform the first measurement of the 2p?1s2p?1s x-ray transition in kaonic deuterium. This measurement, together with that of the kaonic hydrogen 2p?1s2p?1s x-ray transition, performed by the SIDDHARTA experiment in 2009, will allow the determination of antikaon-nucleon isospin-dependent scattering lengths. This paper presents a description of the SIDDHARTA-2 setup, which is getting ready for the kaonic deuterium measurement.
- Investigating the E2 nuclear resonance effect in kaonic atomsL. De Paolis, M. Bazzi, D. Bosnar, M. Bragadireanu, M. Cargnelli, M. Carminati, A. Clozza, G. Deda, R. Del Grande, K. Dulski, C. Fiorini, I. Friščić, C. Guaraldo, M. Iliescu, M. Iwasaki, P. King, A. Khreptak, P. Levi Sandri, S. Manti, J. Marton, M. Miliucci, P. Moskal, F. Napolitano, S. Niedźwiecki, H. Onishi, K. Piscicchia, Y. Sada, A. Scordo, F. Sgaramella, H. Shi, M. Silarski, D. L. Sirghi. F. Sirghi, M. Skurzok, S. Wycech, A. Spallone, K. Toho, M. Tüchler, O. Vazquez Doce, C. Yoshida, J. Zmeskal and C. Curceanupublished in: J. Phys.: Conf. Ser. 2446 (2023) 012038The nuclear E2 resonance effect occurs when an atomic de-excitation energy is closely matched by a nuclear excitation energy. It produces an attenuation of some of the atomic X-ray lines in the resonant isotope target. Investigating the nuclear E2 resonance effect in kaonic atoms, important information about kaon-nucleus strong interaction can be provided. The only ${K}^{-}{-}_{42}^{98}mathrm{Mo}$ nuclear resonance effect was measured by G. L. Goldfrey, G- K. Lum and C. E. Wiegand at Lawrence Berkeley Laboratory, in 1975. The nuclear E2 resonance effect was observed in 25 hours of data taking, not enough to provide a conclusive result. In four kaonic Molybdenum isotopes (${}_{42}^{94}mathrm{Mo}$, ${}_{42}^{96}mathrm{Mo}$, ${}_{42}^{98}mathrm{Mo}$ and ${}_{42}^{100}mathrm{Mo}$), the nuclear E2 resonance effect is expected at the same transition, with similar energy values. The KAMEO (Kaonic Atoms Measuring nuclear resonance Effects Observables) experiment plans to study the E2 nuclear resonance effect in kaonic Molybdenum isotopes at the DA?NE e+e? collider, during the SIDDHARTA-2 experiment. The experimental strategy consists of exposing four solid strip targets, each enriched with one Molybdenum isotope, to negatively charged kaons, using a germanium detector for X-ray transition measurements. A further exposure of a non-resonant ${}_{42}^{92}mathrm{Mo}$ isotope solid strip target will be used as reference for standard non-resonant transitions.
- Studies of low-energy K- - nucleus/nuclei interactions with light nuclei by AMADEUSM. Skurzok, M. Bazzi, M. Bragadireanu, D. Bosnar, M. Cargnelli, A. Clozza, L. De Paolis, R. Del Grande, L. Fabbietti, C. Guaraldo, M. Iliescu, P. Levi Sandri, J. Marton, M. Miliucci, P. Moskal, K. Piscicchia, A. Ramos, A. Scordo, M. Silarski, D. L. Sirghi, F. Sirghi, A. Spallone, O. Vazquez Doce, S. Wycech, J. Zmeskal and C. Curceanupublished in: EPJ Web Conf. 279 (2023) 11019The AMADEUS Collaboration aims to provide unique experimental constraints to the antikaon-nucleon strong interaction in the regime of nonperturbative QCD. The K- nuclear captures, both at-rest and in-flight, are studied using the monochromatic low-momentum kaon beam (pK about 120 MeV/c) produced at the DAFNE collider, interacting with the KLOE detector materials. The studies are performed by reconstructing the hyperon-pion and hyperonnucleon final states. In this work a brief description of AMADEUS results for Lambda pi0 and Lambda p final states is presented.
- Kaonic atoms measurements with SIDDHARTA-2F. Sgaramella, M. Bazzi, D. Bosnar, M. Bragadireanu, M. Cargnelli, M. Carminati, A. Clozza, G. Deda, R. Del Grande, L. De Paolis, K. Dulski, L. Fabbietti, C. Fiorini, I. Friščić, C. Guaraldo, M. Iliescu, M. Iwasaki, A. Khreptak, S. Manti, J. Marton, M. Miliucci, P. Moskal, F. Napolitano, S. Niedźwiecki, H. Ohnishi, K. Piscicchia, Y. Sada, A. Scordo, H. Shi, M. Silarski, D. Sirghi, F. Sirghi, M .Skurzok, A. Spallone, K. Toho, M. Tüchler, C. Yoshida, J. Zmeskal, C. Curceanupublished in: J. Phys.: Conf. Ser. 2446 (2023) 012023The SIDDHARTA-2 collaboration is aiming to perform the challenging measurement of kaonic deuterium X-ray transitions to the ground state. This will allow to extract the isospin-dependent antikaon-nucleon scattering lengths, providing input to the theory of Quantum Chromodynamics (QCD) in the non-perturbative regime with strangeness. This work describes the SIDDHARTA-2 experimental apparatus and presents the results obtained during the commissioning phase realized with kaonic helium measurements. In particular, the first observation of the kaonic helium transitions to the 3s level (M-lines), reported in this work, represents a new source of information to study the kaonic helium cascade process and demonstrates the potential of the SIDDHARTA-2 apparatus, in the view of the ambitious kaonic deuterium measurement.
- The SIDDHARTA-2 experiment: preparation for the first kaonic deuterium measurementL. De Paolis, M. Bazzi, D. Bosnar, M. Bragadireanu, M. Cargnelli, M. Carminati, A. Clozza, G. Deda, R. Del Grande, K. Dulski, C. Fiorini, I. Friščić, C. Guaraldo, M. Iliescu, M. Iwasaki, P. King, A. Khreptak, P. Levi Sandri, S. Manti, J. Marton, M. Miliucci, P. Moskal, F. Napolitano, S. Niedźwiecki, H. Onishi, K. Piscicchia, Y. Sada, A. Scordo, F. Sgaramella, H. Shi, M. Silarski, D. L. Sirghi. F. Sirghi, M. Skurzok, A. Spallone, K. Toho, M. Tüchler, C. Yoshida, J. Zmeskal and C. Curceanupublished in: PoS ICHEP2022 (2022) 1003The SIDDHARTA-2 experiment aims to perform the first measurement of the kaonic deuterium 2p -> 1s x-ray transitions. The apparatus is presently installed at the interaction region of the DAFNE electron-positron collider at the National Laboratories of Frascati (LNF-INFN), in Italy. Kaonic deuterium and kaonic hydrogen 2p -> 1s x-ray transitions measurements, the latter one already performed by the SIDDHARTA collaboration, allow the determination of antikaon-nucleon scattering lengths. A description of the SIDDHARTA-2 apparatus in preparation for the kaonic deuterium measurement is provided in this paper.
- Trigger rejection factor in the first kaonic helium run with the complete SIDDHARTA-2 setupL. De Paolis, M. Bazzi, D. Bosnar, M. Bragadireanu, M. Cargnelli, M. Carminati, A. Clozza, G. Deda, R. Del Grande, L. Fabbietti, C. Fiorini, I. Friščić, C. Guaraldo, M. Iliescu, M. Iwasaki, A. Khreptak, P. King, P. Levi Sandri, S. Manti, J. Marton, M. Miliucci, P. Moskal, F. Napolitano, S. Niedźwiecki, H. Onishi, K. Piscicchia, Y. Sada, A. Scordo, F. Sgaramella, H. Shi, M. Silarski, D. L. Sirghi. F. Sirghi, M. Skurzok, A. Spallone, K. Toho, M. Tüchler, C. Yoshida, J. Zmeskal and C. Curceanupublished in: EPJ Web Conf. 270 (2022) 00028The SIDDHARTA-2 experiment aims to perform the first measurement of the kaonic deuterium 2p -> 1s x-ray transition energy. Such measurement, together with the measurement of kaonic hydrogen 2p -> 1s x-ray energy transition performed by the SIDDHARTA experiment in 2011, allows the determination of kaon proton and kaon neutron scattering lengths and represents a fundamental input for the low energies QCD in the strangeness sector theory. The SIDDHARTA-2 experiment is presently installed at the DAFNE electronpositron collider at the National Laboratories of Frascati, in Italy. In May 2022, the kaonic 4He x-ray transitions measurement was performed by the complete SIDDHARTA-2 setup, by using a gaseous target. The result of this measurement is presented in this paper, with a specific focus on the background rejection performed by the kaon trigger system.
- Studies of the Linearity and Stability of Silicon Drift Detectors for Kaonic Atoms X-ray SpectroscopyA. Khreptak, C. Amsler, M. Bazzi, D. Bosnar, M. Bragadireanu, M. Cargnelli, M. Carminati, A. Clozza, G. Deda, L. De Paolis, R. Del Grande, L. Fabbietti, C. Fiorini, C. Guaraldo, M. Iliescu, M. Iwasaki, S. Manti, J. Marton, M. Miliucci, P. Moskal, F. Napolitano, S. Niedźwiecki, H. Onishi, K. Piscicchia, Y. Sada, A. Scordo, F. Sgaramella, H. Shi, M. Silarski, D. Sirghi, F. Sirghi, M. Skurzok, A. Spallone, K. Toho, M. Tüchler, O. Vazquez Doce, J. Zmeskal, C. Yoshida, C. Curceanupublished in: Acta Phys. Polon. B Proc. Suppl. 15 (2022) 4-A1The SIDDHARTA-2 experiment at the DAFNE collider aims to perform precision measurements of kaonic atoms X-ray spectroscopy for the investigation of the antikaon?nucleon strong interaction. To achieve this goal, novel large-area Silicon Drift Detectors (SDDs) have been developed. These devices have special geometry, field configuration, and readout electronics that ensure excellent performance in terms of linearity and stability. The paper presents preliminary results for the linearity determination and stability monitoring of the SDDs system during the measurement of kaonic deuterium carried out in the summer of 2022.
- Status and perspectives for low energy kaon-nucleon interaction studies at DAFNE: from SIDDHARTA to SIDDHARTA-2F. Sirghi, M. Bazzi, D. Bosnar, M. Bragadireanu, M. Cargnelli, A. Clozza, C. Curceanu, G. Deda, L. De Paolis, R. Del Grande, C. Fiorini, C. Guaraldo, M. Iliescu, M. Iwasaki, P. King, P. Levi Sandri, J. Marton, M. Miliucci, P. Moskal, F. Napolitano, S. Niedźwiecki, K. Piscicchia, A. Scordo, F. Sgaramella, H. Shi, M. Silarski, D. Sirghi, F. Sirghi, M. Skurzok, A. Spallone, M. Tüchler, O. Vazquez Doce, J. Zmeskalpublished in: PoS PANIC2021, 200 (2022)The study of the antikaon nucleon system at very low energies plays a key role for the understanding of the strong interaction between hadrons in the strangeness sector. The information provided by the low energy kaon- nucleon interaction is accessible through the study of kaonic atoms. The lightest atomic systems, namely the kaonic hydrogen and the kaonic deuterium, provide the isospin dependent kaon-nucleon scattering lengths by measuring the X-rays emitted during their de-excitation to the 1s level. Until now, the most precise kaonic hydrogen measurement and an exploratory measurement of kaonic deuterium were carried out at the DA?NE collider by the SIDDHARTA collaboration, combining the excellent quality kaon beam delivered by the collider with new experimental techniques, as fast and very precise X-ray detectors, like the Silicon Drift Detectors. Today, the most important experimental information missing in the field of the lowenergy antikaon-nucleon interactions is the experimental determination of the hadronic energy shift and width of kaonic deuterium, and will be measured by the new SIDDHARTA-2 experiment, which is installed in DA?NE and is ready to start the data taking campaign.
- High precision Kaonic Deuterium measurement at the DAFNE collider: theSIDDHARTA-2 experiment and the SIDDHARTINO runM. Miliucci, M. Bazzi, D. Bosnar, M. Bragadireanu, M. Carminati, M. Cargnelli, A. Clozza, C. Curceanu, G. Deda, L. De Paolis, R. Del Grande, C. Fiorini, C. Guaraldo, M. Iliescu, M. Iwasaki, P. King, P. Levi Sandri, J. Marton, P. Moskal, F. Napolitano, S. Niedźwiecki, K. Piscicchia, A. Scordo, F. Sgaramella, H. Shi , M. Silarski, D. Sirghi, F. Sirghi, M. Skurzok, A. Spallone, M. T ?uchler, O. Vazquez Doce, J. Zmeskalpublished in: Suplemento de la Revista Mexicana de Fisica 30308081 (2022) 1The kaonic deuterium 2p?1s transition X-ray measurement, a fundamental information needed for a deeper understanding of the QuantumChromoDynamics (QCD) in the strangeness sector, is still missing. The SIDDHARTA-2 collaboration is now ready to achieve this unprece-dented result thanks to the dedicated experimental apparatus that will allow to obtain the values of the kaonic deuterium K-transitions witha precision comparable to the most precise kaonic hydrogen measurement to-date performed by SIDDHARTA in 2009. Both the kaonichydrogen and kaonic deuterium X-ray spectroscopy measurements of the de-excitation towards the fundamental level are a direct probe onKN interaction at threshold, as opposed to the scattering experiments which need an extrapolation to zero energy. Combining these resultsthrough the Deser-Truemann like formula, the isospin-dependent kaon-nucleon scattering lengths can be obtained in a model-independentway. The SIDDHARTA-2 setup is presently installed at the DAFNE (Double Annular Phi Factory for Nice Experiments) collider of IstitutoNazionale di Fisica Nucleare- Laboratori Nazionali di Frascati and it is ready to perform the challenging kaonic deuterium measurement. Thispaper provides an overview on the SIDDHARTA-2 experimental apparatus and a preliminary result of the kaonic helium run, preparatory forthe SIDDHARTA-2 data taking campaign, is also presented.
- Main Features of the SIDDHARTA-2 Apparatus for Kaonic Deuterium X-Ray MeasurementsM. Tüchler, F. Sirghi, M. Bazzi, D. Bosnar, M. Bragadireanu, M. Carminati, M. Cargnelli, A. Clozza, C. Curceanu, G. Deda, R. Del Grande, L. De Paolis, C. Fiorini, C. Guaraldo, M. Iliescu, M. Iwasaki, P. King, P. Levi Sandri, J. Marton, M. Miliucci, P. Moskal, F. Napolitano, S. Niedzwiecki, K. Piscicchia, A. Scordo, F. Sgaramella, H. Shi, M. Silarski, D. Sirghi, M. Skurzok, A. Spallone, O. Vazquez Doce, E. Widmann, J. Zmeskalpublished in: EPJ Web Conf. 262 (2022) 01016The low-energy, non-perturbative regime of QCD can be studied directly by X-ray spectroscopy of light kaonic atoms. The SIDDHARTA-2 experiment, located at the DAFNE collider, aims to measure the 2p -> 1s transition in kaonic deuterium for the first time to extract the antikaon-nucleon scattering lengths. This measurement is impeded, inter alia, by the low K?d X-ray yield. Hence, several updates have been implemented on the apparatus to increase the signal-to-background ratio, which are discussed in detail in this paper: a lightweight gas target cell, novel Silicon Drift Detectors for the X-ray detection with excellent performance, and a veto system for active background suppression. The experiment has undergone a first preparatory run during DAFNE?s commissioning phase in 2021, concluding with a successful kaonic helium measurement.
- Low energy kaon-nuclei interaction studies at DAFNEK. Piscicchia, M. Cargnelli, R. Del Grande, L. Fabbietti, J. Marton, P. Moskal, A. Scordo, D. Sirghi, M. Skurzok, O. Vazquez Doce, S. Wycech, J. Zmeskal, P. Branchini, E. Czerwinski, V. De Leo, E. De Lucia, A. Di Cicco, E. Diociaiuti, P. Fermani, S. Fiore, M. Martini, E. Perez Del Rio, A. Selce, M. Silarski, C. Curceanupublished in: EPJ Web Conf. 262 (2022) 01006The aim of the AMADEUS experiment is to investigate the lowenergy antikaon interaction with nucleons and nuclei, exploiting the unique lowmomentum beam of kaons produced by the DAFNE collider at LNF-INFN, to constrain hadronic nuclear physics models in the strangeness -1 sector. As a first step the data collected in 2004/2005 by the KLOE collaboration, consisting in a complex of K- absorptions in H, 4He, 9Be and 12C, was analyzed, leading to the first invariant mass spectroscopic study with very low momentum (about 100 MeV) in-flight K- captures. A dedicated pure Carbon target was also implemented in the central region of the KLOE detector, providing a high statistic reference sample of pure at-rest K- nuclear interaction. The first measurement of the non-resonant transition amplitude at MeV below the threshold is presented, in relation with the Lambda(1405) properties studies.
- From tests of discrete symmetries to medical imaging with J-PET detectorP. Moskal, J. Baran, N. Chug, C. Curceanu, E. Czerwiński, M. Dadgar, K. Dulski, J. Gajewski, A. Gajos, M. Gorgol, B.C. Hiesmayr, B. Jasińska, K. Kacprzak, Ł. Kapłon, H. Karimi, K. Klimaszewski, P. Konieczka, G. Korcyl, T. Kozik, N. Krawczyk, W. Krzemień, E. Kubicz, D. Kumar, S. Niedźwiecki, D. Panek, S. Parzych, E. Perez del Rio, L. Raczyński, J. Raj, A. Ruciński, S. Sharma, Shivani, R.Y. Shopa, M. Silarski, M. Skurzok, E.Ł. Stępień, M. Szczepanek, F. Tayefi, W. Wiślickipublished in: PoS PANIC2021 (2022) 033We present results on CPT symmetry tests in decays of positronium performed with the precision at the level of 10?4, and positronium images determined with the prototype of the J-PET tomograph. The first full-scale prototype apparatus consists of 192 plastic scintillator strips readout from both ends with vacuum tube photomultipliers. Signals produced by photomultipliers are probed in the amplitude domain and are digitized by FPGA-based readout boards in triggerless mode. In this contribution we report on the first two- and three-photon positronium images and tests of CPT symmetry in positronium decays.
- Kaonic atoms measurements at the DAFNE collider: the SIDDHARTA-2 experimentCatalina Curceanu, Marco Miliucci, Massimiliano Bazzi, Damir Bosnar, Mario Bragadireanu, Marco Carminati, Michael Cargnelli, Alberto Clozza, Griseld Deda, Luca De Paolis, Raffaele Del Grande, Carlo Fiorini, Carlo Guaraldo, Mihail Iliescu, Masahiko Iwasaki, Pietro King, Paolo Levi Sandri, Johann Marton, Paweł Moskal, Fabrizio Napolitano, Szymon Niedźwiecki, Kristian Piscicchia, Alessandro Scordo, Francesco Sgaramella, Hexi Shi, Michał Silarski, Diana Sirghi, Florin Sirghi, Magdalena Skurzok, Antonio Spallone, Marlene Tüchler, Oton Vazquez Doce, Johann Zmeskalpublished in: EPJ Web Conf. 258 (2022) 07006The X-ray spectroscopy measurements of light kaonic atoms? deexcitation towards the fundamental level provide unique information on the low-energy Quantum ChromoDynamics (QCD) in the strangeness sector, being a direct probe of the kaon/nucleon interaction at threshold, unobtainable through the scattering experiments. In this framework, the SIDDHARTA-2 collaboration is going to perform the first kaonic deuterium 2p -> 1s transition measurement at the DAFNE collider of Istituto Nazionale di Fisica Nucleare - Laboratori Nazionali di Frascati. Combining this measurement with the kaonic hydrogen one performed by SIDDHARTA in 2009 it will be possible to obtain, in a model-independent way, the isospin-dependent antikaon-nucleon scattering lengths. The paper introduces the SIDDHARTA-2 setup, an upgraded version with respect to the one used for the kaonic hydrogen measurement, dedicated to the ambitious kaonic deuterium measurement, together with the preliminary results obtained during the kaonic helium run, preparatory for the SIDDHARTA-2 data taking campaign.
- Probing low-energy QCD with kaonic atoms at DAFNEM. Tuchler, J. Zmeskal, A. Amirkhani, C. Amsler, A. Baniahmad, M. Bazzi, D. Bosnar, M. A. Bragadireanu, P. Buhler, M. Cargnelli, M. Carminati, A. Clozza, C. Curceanu, R. Del Grande, L. De Paolis, L. Fabbietti, C. Fiorini, C. Guaraldo, M. Iliescu, M. Iwasaki, P. Levi Sandri, J. Marton, M. Miliucci, P. Moskal, S. Niedzwiecki, S. Okada, K. Piscicchia, A. Scordo, M. Silarski, D. Sirghi, F. Sirghi, M. Skurzok, A. Spallone, O. Vazquez Doce and E. Widmannpublished in: J. Phys. Conf. Ser. 1643 (2020) 012182X-ray spectroscopy of kaonic atoms provides a versatile tool to study the strong interaction at low energies via a direct observation of its influence on the ground state of kaonic hydrogen atoms. The SIDDHARTA experiment provided precise results on the energy shift and width of the kaonic hydrogen 1s state induced by the strong interaction. To enable the extraction of the antikaon-nucleon scattering lengths a0 and a1, SIDDHARTA-2 aims to determine the energy shift and width in kaonic deuterium with precisions of 30 eV and 75 eV, respectively. This measurement is aggravated by the low kaonic deuterium X-ray yield and a high background environment and will only be possible by implementing a severe upgrade on the SIDDHARTA apparatus.
- Studies of K--nuclei interactions at low-energies by AMADEUSR. Del Grande, M. Bazzi, A. M. Bragadireanu, D. Bosnar, M. Cargnelli, A. Clozza, C. Curceanu, L. De Paolis, L. Fabbietti, F. Ghio, C. Guaraldo, M. Iliescu, M. Iwasaki, P. Levi Sandri, J. Marton, M. Miliucci , P. Moskal, S. Okada, K. Piscicchia, A. Ramos, A. Scordo, M. Silarski, D. L. Sirghi, F. Sirghi, M. Skurzok, A. Spallone, O. Vazquez Doce, E. Widmann, S. Wycech , J. Zmeskalpublished in: J. Phys. Conf. Ser. 1643 (2020) 012081The AMADEUS collaboration is providing unique experimental information on the low-energy strong interaction between K- and nucleons exploiting the low momentum K- (pK ~ 127 MeV/c) produced at the DAFNE collider and using the KLOE detector as active target. The absorption of the K- in light nuclei (H, 4He, 9Be and 12C) are investigated and hyperon-pion/hyperon-nucleons, emitted in the final state, are reconstructed. In the present work the results obtained from the study of Lambda pi-, Lambda p and Lambda t correlated production will be presented.
- Recent AMADEUS Studies of Low-Energy K--Nucleus/Nuclei InteractionsM. Skurzok, M. Bazzi, M. A. Bragadireanu, D. Bosnar, M. Cargnelli, C. Curceanu, L. De Paolis, R. Del Grande, L. Fabbietti, C. Fiorini, C. Guaraldo, M. Iliescu, P. Levi Sandri, J. Marton, M. Miliucci, P. Moskal, K. Piscicchia, A. Ramos, A. Scordo, M. Silarski, D. Laura Sirghi, F. Sirghi, A. Spallone, O. Vazquez Doce, E. Widmann, S. Wycech, J. Zmeskalpublished in: Springer Proc. Phys. 250 (2020) 403-407We briefly report the recent results obtained by the AMADEUS collaboration on experimental studies of the K- low-energy interactions with light nuclei and outline the future perspectives.
- Low-energy Kaon Nucleon/Nuclei Studies at DAFNE: the SIDDHARTA-2 ExperimentM. Miliucci, A. Amirkhani, A. Baniahmad, M. Bazzi, D. Bosnar, M. Bragadireanu, M. Carminati, M. Cargnelli, C. Curceanu, A. Clozza, L. De Paolis, R. Del Grande, L. Fabbietti, C. Fiorini, C. Guaraldo, M. Iliescu, M. Iwasaki, P. Levi Sandri, J. Marton, P. Moskal, S. Niedźwiecki, S. Okada, K. Piscicchia, A. Scordo, H. Shi, M. Silarski, D. Sirghi, F. Sirghi, M. Skurzok, A. Spallone, M. Tüchler, O. Vazquez Doce, J. Zmeskalpublished in: Acta Phys. Polon. B Proc. Suppl. 14 (2021) 49The experimental studies of light kaonic atoms offer the unique opportunity to investigate the kaon-nucleus interaction at threshold, performing experiments equivalent to scattering at vanishing relative energies without the need of an extrapolation. In this framework, the SIDDHARTA-2 experiment is going to perform the first measurement of kaonic deuterium 2p->1s transition, which is fundamental to extract the isospin-dependent antikaon-nucleon scattering lengths. The setup was installed on the DAFNE collider of LNF-INFN in spring 2019 and is presently in optimization phase. The SIDDHARTA-2 data taking campaign for the kaonic deuterium is planned in 2020-2021.
- Studies of kaonic atoms at the DAFNE collider: from SIDDHARTA to SIDDHARTA-2D. Sirghi, A. Amirkhani, A. Baniahmad, M. Bazzi, D. Bosnar, M. Bragadireanu, M. Carminati, M. Cargnelli, A. Clozza, C. Curceanu, L. De Paolis, R. Del Grande, L. Fabbietti, C. Fiorini, C. Guaraldo, M. Iliescu, M. Iwasaki, P. Levi Sandri, J. Marton, M. Miliucci, P. Moskal, S. Niedźwiecki, S. Okada, D.Pietreanu, K. Piscicchia, A. Scordo, M. Silarski, F. Sirghi, M. Skurzok, A. Spallone, M. Tüchler, O. Vazquez Doce, E. Widmann, J. Zmeskalpublished in: J. Phys. Conf. Ser. 1526 (2020) 012023The DA?NE electron-positron collider of the Laboratori Nazionali di Frascati of INFN is a worldwide unique low-energy kaon source and for this reason is suitable for low-energy kaon physics like kaonic atoms and kaon-nucleons/nuclei interaction studies. Kaonic atoms are atomic systems where an electron is replaced by a negatively charged kaon, containing the strange quark, which interacts in the lowest orbits with the nucleus also by the strong interaction. As a result, their study offers the unique opportunity to perform experiments equivalent to scattering at vanishing relative energy. This allows to study the strong interaction between the antikaon and the nucleon or the nucleus at threshold, without the need of ad hoc extrapolation to zero energy, as in scattering experiments. The most precise kaonic hydrogen measurement to date, together with an exploratory measurement of kaonic deuterium, were carried out by the SIDDHARTA collaboration at the DA?NE electron-positron collider of LNF-INFN, by combining the excellent quality kaon beam delivered by the collider with new experimental techniques, as fast and precise Silicon-Drift X-ray Detectors. The measurement of kaonic deuterium will be realized in the near future by SIDDHARTA-2, a major upgrade of SIDDHARTA.
- Studies of low-energy K- hadronic interactions with light nuclei by AMADEUSR. Del Grande, M. Bazzi, A. M. Bragadireanu, D. Bosnar, M. Cargnelli, A. Clozza, C. Curceanu, L. De Paolis, L. Fabbietti, F. Ghio, C. Guaraldo, M. Iliescu, M. Iwasaki, P. Levi Sandri, J. Marton, M. Miliucci, P. Moskal, S. Okada, K. Piscicchia, A. Ramos, A. Scordo, M. Silarski, D .L. Sirghi, F. Sirghi, M. Skurzok, A. Spallone, O. Vazquez Doce, E. Widmann, S. Wycech and J. Zmeskalpublished in: J. Phys. Conf. Ser. 1526 (2020) 012024The AMADEUS collaboration aims to provide precise experimental information on the K- strong interaction with nucleons in the low-energy regime. The step 0 of AMADEUS consists of the re-analysis of the data collected with the KLOE detector at the DA?NE collider during the 2004/2005 data taking campaign. The absorptions of low-momentum K?s in the nuclei contained in the detector and the beam pipe setup (H,4He,9Be and12C) are investigated. Information on the K- single and multi-nucleon interactions are extracted from the study of the Lambda-pi- and p correlated production in the final state.
- Low-Energy K- Nucleon/Multi-nucleon Interaction Studies by AMADEUSM. Skurzok, M. Bazzi, G. Bellotti, A. M. Bragadireanu, D. Bosnar, A. Butt, M. Cargnelli, C. Curceanu, L. De Paolis, R. Del Grande, L. Fabbietti, C. Fiorini, F. Ghio, C. Guaraldo, R. Hayano, M. Iliescu, M. Iwasaki, P. Levi Sandri, J. Marton, M. Miliucci, P. Moskal, S. Okada, D. Pietreanu, K. Piscicchia, A. Ramos, A. Scordo, H. Shi, M. Silarski, D. L. Sirghi, F. Sirghi, A. Spallone, O. Vazquez Doce, E. Widmann, S. Wycech, J. Zmeskalpublished in: Springer Proc.Phys. 238 (2020) 937-941The AMADEUS collaboration aims to provide new experimental constraints to the K- N strong interaction in the regime of non-perturbative QCD, exploiting low-energy K- hadronic interactions with light nuclei (e.g. H, 4 He, 9 Be and 12 C). The low-momentum kaons ( p K -- 127 MeV/c) produced at the DAFNE collider are ideal to explore both stopped and in-flight K- nuclear captures. The KLOE detector is used as an active target, allowing to achieve excellent acceptance and resolutions for the data. In this work the results obtained from the study of Lambda pi- and Lambda p correlated production in the final state are presented.
- Kaonic Deuterium Precision Measurement at DAFNE: The SIDDHARTA-2 ExperimentM. Miliucci, A. Amirkhani, A. Baniahmad, M. Bazzi, G. Bellotti, C. Berucci, D. Bosnar, M. Bragadireanu, M. Cargnelli, C. Curceanu, A. Dawood Butt, L. De Paolis, R. Del Grande, L. Fabbietti, C. Fiorini, F. Ghio, C. Guaraldo, M. Iliescu, M. Iwasaki, P. Levi Sandri, J. Marton, P. Moskal, S. Nied ? wiecki, z S. Okada, D. Pietreanu, K. Piscicchia, A. Scordo, H. Shi, M. Silarski, D. Sirghi, F. Sirghi, M. Skurzok, A. Spallone, H. Tatsuno, O. Vazquez Doce, E. Widmann and J. Zmeskalpublished in: Springer Proc. Phys. 238 (2020) 965Light kaonic atoms spectroscopy offers the unique opportunity to perform experiments equivalent to scattering at vanishing relative energies. This allows the determination of the antikaon-nucleus interaction at threshold, without the need of extrapolation to zero energy, as in the case of scattering experiments. In this framework, the SIDDHARTA-2 collaboration aims to perform the first measurement of kaonic deuterium transition to the fundamental level, which is mandatory to extract the isospin dependent antikaon-nucleon scattering lengths. The experiment will be carried out at the DA?NE collider of LNF-INFN in 2019-2020.
- Status and Prospects of Discrete Symmetries Tests in Positronium Decays with the J-PET DetectorM. Silarskipublished in: AIP Conf. Proc. 2182 (2019) 030003Positronium is a unique laboratory to study fundamental symmetries in the Standard Model, reflection in space (P), reversal in time (T ), charge conjugation (C) and their combinations. The experimental limits on the C, CP and CPT symmetries violation in the decays of positronium are still several orders of magnitude higher than the expectations. The newly constructed Jagiellonian Positron Emission Tomograph (J-PET) was optimized for the registration of photons from the electron-positron annihilations. It enables tests of discrete symmetries in decays of positronium atoms via the determination of the expectation values of the discrete-symmetries-odd operators. In this article we present the capabilities of the J-PET detector in improving the current precision of discrete symmetries tests and report on the progress of analysis data from the first data-taking runs.
- Kaonic atoms experiment at the DAFNE collider by SIDDHARTA/SIDDHARTA-2M. Skurzok, A. Amirkhani, A. Baniahmad, M. Bazzi, D. Bosnar, M. Bragadireanu, M. Carminati, M. Cargnelli, A. Clozza, C. Curceanu, L. De Paolis, R. Del Grande, L. Fabbietti, C. Fiorini, C. Guaraldo, M. Iliescu, M. Iwasaki, P Levi Sandri, J. Marton, M. Miliucci, P Moskal, S. Niedzwiecki, S. Okada, D. Pietreanu, K. Piscicchia, A. Scordo, M. Silarski, D. Sirghi, F. Sirghi, A. Spallone, M. Tüchler, O. Vazquez Doce, E. Widmann and J. Zmeskalpublished in: SciPost Phys. Proc. 3 (2020) 039The excellent quality kaon beam provided by the DAFNE collider of LNF-INFN (Italy) together with SIDDHARTA/SIDDHARTA-2 new experimental techniques, as very precise and fast-response X-ray detectors, allow to perform unprecedented measurements on light kaonic atoms crucial for a deeper understanding of the low-energy quantum chro- modynamics (QCD) in the strangeness sector. In this paper an overview of the main results obtained by the SIDDHARTA collaboration, as well as the future plans related to the SIDDHARTA-2 experiment, are discussed.
- Low-energy K- Hadronic Interactions with Light Nuclei by AMADEUSM. Skurzok, M. Bazzi, G. Bellotti, A. M. Bragadireanu, D. Bosnar, M. Cargnelli, C. Curceanu, L. De Paolis, R. Del Grande, L. Fabbietti, C. Fiorini, F. Ghio, C. Guaraldo, R. Hayano, M. Iliescu, M. Iwasaki, P. Levi Sandri, J. Marton, M. Miliucci, P. Moskal, S. Okada, D. Pietreanu, K. Piscicchia, A. Ramos, A. Scordo, H. Shi, M. Silarski, D. L. Sirghi, F. Sirghi, A. Spallone, O. Vazquez Doce, E. Widmann, S. Wycech, J. Zmeskalpublished in: JPS Conf. Proc. 26 (2019) 023011The AMADEUS collaboration aims to provide new experimental constraints to the K- N strong inter- action in the regime of non-perturbative QCD, exploiting low-energy K- hadronic interactions with light nuclei (e.g. H, 4He, 9Be and 12C). The low-momentum kaons (pK ~127 MeV/c) produced at the DAFNE collider are ideal to explore both stopped and in-flight K- nuclear captures. The KLOE detector is used as an active target, allowing to achieve excellent acceptance and resolutions for the data. In this work the results obtained from the study of Lambda pi- and Lambda p correlated production in the final state are presented.
- Probing Strong Interaction with SIDDHARTA-2J. Zmeskal, A. Scordo, A. Amirkhani, C. Amsler, A. Baniahmad, M. Bazzi, G. Bellotti, C. Berucci, D. Bosnar, M. Bragadireanu, M. Cargnelli, C. Curceanu, R. Del Grande, L. Fabbietti, C. Fiorini, F. Ghio, C. Guaraldo, M. Iliescu, M. Iwasaki, P. Levi Sandri, J. Marton, M. Miliucci, P. Moskal, D. Pietreanu, K. Piscicchia, A. Scordo, H. Shi, M. Silarski, D. L. Sirghi, F. Sirghi, M. Skurzok, A. Spallone, M. Tuechler, O. Vazquez Doce, E. Widmannpublished in: JPS Conf. Proc. 26 (2019) 023012The antikaon-nucleon interaction close to threshold provides crucial information on the interplay between spontaneous and explicit chiral symmetry breaking in low-energy QCD involving strangeness. The unique feature of DAFNE, namely the production of low-energy kaons, has led to a series of successfully conducted experiments with light kaonic atoms like SIDDHARTA, where the most precise value for the antikaon-proton scattering length was determined. Kaonic deuterium X-ray spectroscopy is still missing and with SIDDHARTA-2 the ground state 1s-level shift and width should be measured with a precision of 30 eV and 75 eV, respectively.
- Hazardous Substance Detection in Water Environments using Neutron Beams: the SABAT ProjectM. Silarskipublished in: Problems of Mechatronics. Armament, Aviation, Safety Engineering 2019; 10 (3): 49-60The ever-increasing risk of terrorist attacks is a stimulus for seeking new, more effective danger detection methods. The article describes new methods of detecting hazardous materials based on the interaction between neutrons and matter. The status of the design of the device for detecting hazardous materials in water environments based on these methods, currently in development at the Jagiellonian University (Kraków, Poland), will be presented as well.
- Kaonic atoms measurements at the DAFNE ColliderD. Sirghi, A. Amirkhani, A. Baniahmad, M. Bazzi, G. Bellotti, C. Berucci, D. Bosnar, M. Bragadireanu, M. Cargnelli, C. Curceanu, L. Fabbietti, C. Fiorini, F. Ghio, C. Guaraldo, M. Iliescu, M. Iwasaki, J. Martona, M. Miliucci, P. Moskal, S. Niedzwiecki, S. Okada, D. Pietreanu, K. Piscicchia, A. Scordo, H. Shi, M. Silarski, F. Sirghi, M. Skurzok, A. Spallone, H. Tatsuno, E. Widmann, J. Zmeskalpublished in: PoS Confinement 2018 (2019) 215The DAFNE electron-positron collider of the Laboratori Nazionali di Frascati of INFN is a worldwide unique low-energy kaon source, which is being used to produce and to study kaonic atoms by the SIDDHARTA collaboration. The X-ray measurements of kaonic atoms play an important role for understanding the low-energy QCD in the strangeness sector. Significant achievements have been obtained by the SIDDHARTA experiment, among which: the most precise kaonic hydrogen measurement of the 1s level shift and width induced by the presence of the strong interaction; an upper limit of the X-ray yield for kaonic deuterium K-series; the accurate measurement of the 2p level shift and width of kaonic helium-4 and kaonic helium-3; yields of various light kaonic atoms transitions. Using the experience gained with SIDDHARTA experiment, the first kaonic deuterium measurement is in preparation in the framework of the SIDDHARTA-2 experiment with the goal to determine the antikaon-nucleon isospin dependent scattering lengths, which is possible only by combining the K-p and the upcoming K-d results. An overview of the experimental results of SIDDHARTA and an outlook to SIDDHARTA-2 experiments are given in this paper.
- Kaonic Atoms Measurement at DAFNE: SIDDHARTA and SIDDHARTA-2L. De Paolis, D. Sirghi, A. Amirkhani, A. Baniahmad, M. Bazzi, G. Bellotti, C. Berucci, D. Bosnar, M. Bragadireanu, M. Cargnelli, C. Curceanu, A. Dawood Butt, R. Del Grande, L. Fabbietti, C. Fiorini, F. Ghio, C. Guaraldo, M. Iliescu, M. Iwasaki, P. Levi Sandri, J. Marton, M. Miliucci, P. Moskal, S. Niedźwiecki, S. Okada, D. Pietreanu, K. Piscicchia, H. Shi, M. Silarski, F. Sirghi, M. Skurzok, A. Spallone, H. Tatsuno, O. Vazquez Doce, E. Widmann and J. Zmeskalpublished in: Springer Proc. Phys. 225 (2019) 191-195Light kaonic atoms studies provide the unique opportunity to perform experiments equivalent to scattering at threshold, being their atomic binding energies in the keV range. High precision atomic X-rays spectroscopy ensures that the energy shift and broadening of the lowest-lying states of the kaonic atoms, induced by the strong interaction between the kaon and nucleus, can be detected. Kaonic hydrogen and kaonic deuterium are the lightest atomic systems and their study deliver the isospin-dependent kaon-nucleon scattering lengths. The SIDDHARTA collaboration was able to perform the most precise kaonic hydrogen measurement to date, together with an exploratory measurement of kaonic deuterium. The measurement of the kaonic deuterium will be realized in the near future by a major upgrade of SIDDHARTA: SIDDHARTA-2. In this paper an overview of the main results obtained by SIDDHARTA together with the future plans are presented.
- Low energy antikaon-nucleon/nuclei interaction studies by AMADEUSK. Piscicchia, M. Bazzi, G. Belloti, A. M. Bragadireanu, D. Bosnar, A. D. Butt, M. Cargnelli, C. Curceanu, R. Del Grande, L. De Paolis, L. Fabbietti, C. Fiorini, F. Ghio, C. Guaraldo, R. S. Hayano, M. Iliescu, M. Iwasaki, P. Levi Sandri, J. Marton, M. Miliucci, P. Moskal, S. Okada, A. Ramos, A. Scordo, M. Silarski, D. L. Sirghi, F. Sirghi, M. Skurzok, A. Spallone, O. Vazquez Doce, E. Widmann, S. Wycech, J. Zmeskalpublished in: AIP Conf. Proc. 2130 (2019) 020021The AMADEUS experiment at the DAFNE collider of LNF-INFN deals with the investigation of the at-rest, or low-momentum, K-interactions in light nuclear targets, with the aim to constrain the low energy QCD models in the strangeness sector. The 0 step of the experiment consisted in the reanalysis of the 2004/2005 KLOE data, exploiting K-absorptions in H, 4He, 9Be and 12C, leading to the first invariant mass spectroscopic study with very low momentum (about 100 MeV) in-flight K- captures. With AMADEUS step 1 a dedicated pure Carbon target was implemented in the central region of the KLOE detector, providing a high statistic sample of pure at-rest K- nuclear interaction. The first measurement of the non-resonant transition amplitude |A K- n->Lambda pi- | at sqrt(s)=33 MeV below the K?N threshold is presented, in relation with the Lambda(1405) properties studies. The analysis procedure adopted in the search for K-multi-nucleon absorption cross sections and Branching Ratios will be also described.
- Tests of discrete symmetries in positronium decays with the J-PET detectorM. Silarskipublished in: EPJ Web Conf. 199 (2019) 05009As a relatively simple and purely leptonic state positronium consti-tutes a unique system to study discrete symmetries with precision limited onlyby the effects due to the weak interaction and photon-photon scattering. Theexperimental tests in the positronium decays were performed only on theC,CPandCPTsymmetries with sensitivity much smaller than the predictions whichopens a large window to search for phenomena beyond the Standard Model. Inthis article we present capability of the J-PET detector to improve the current precision of discrete symmetries tests in the decays of positronium atom.
- Low Energy Antikaon-nucleon/nuclei interaction studies by AMADEUSK. Piscicchia, M. Bazzi, G. Belloti, A. M. Bragadireanu, D. Bosnar, A. D. Butt, M. Cargnelli, C. Curceanu, R. Del Grande, L. De Paolis, L. Fabbietti, C. Fiorini, F. Ghio, C. Guaraldo, R. S. Hayano, M. Iliescu, M. Iwasaki, P. Levi Sandri, J. Marton, M. Miliucci, P. Moskal, S. Okada, A. Ramos, A. Scordo, M. Silarski, D. L. Sirghi, F. Sirghi, M. Skurzok, A. Spallone, O. Vazquez Doce, E. Widmann, S. Wycech and J. Zmeskalpublished in: EPJ Web Conf. 199 (2019) 01014The AMADEUS experiment at the DAFNE collider of LNF-INFN deals with the investigation of the at-rest, or low-momentum, K- interactions in light nuclear targets, with the aim to constrain the low energy QCD models in the strangeness sector. The 0 step of the experiment consisted in the reanalysis of the 2004/2005 KLOE data, exploiting K- absorptions in H, 4He, 9Be and 12C, leading to the first invariant mass spectroscopic study with very low momentum (about 100 MeV) in-flight K- captures. With AMADEUS step 1 a dedicated pure Carbon target was implemented in the central region of the KLOE detector, providing a high statistic sample of pure at-rest K- nuclear interaction. The first measurement of the non-resonant transition amplitude at below the K?N threshold is presented, in relation with the Lambda(1405) properties studies. The analysis procedure adopted in the serarch for K- multi-nucleon absorption cross sections and Branching Ratios will be also described.
- Lambdap correlated production from low energy K- 12C interactions by AMADEUSR. Del Grande, M. Bazzi, G. Belloti, A. M. Bragadireanu, D. Bosnar, A. D. Butt, M. Cargnelli, C. Curceanu, L. De Paolis, L. Fabbietti, C. Fiorini, F. Ghio, C. Guaraldo, R. S. Hayano, M. Iliescu, M. Iwasaki, P. Levi Sandri, J. Marton, M. Miliucci, P. Moskal, S. Okada, D. Pietreanu, K. Piscicchia, A. Ramos, A. Scordo, H. Shi, M. Silarski, D. L. Sirghi, F. Sirghi, M. Skurzok, A. Spallone, O. Vazquez Doce, E. Widmann, S. Wycech and J. Zmeskalpublished in: EPJ Web Conf. 199 (2019) 03010The main steps for the analysis of the Lambdap correlated production in low-energy K- captures on Carbon nuclei, performed by the AMADEUS collaboration, are presented. The goal is to perform the first comprehensive study of the K- absorption on two, three and four nucleons, exploiting the lowmomentum K-s (pK ~ 127 MeV/c) produced at the DAFNE collider, and to measure the low-energy cross sections and branching ratios of the K- multinucleon absorption processes in both the Lambdap and Sigma0p channels. An integrated luminosity of 1.74 fb-1 collected during the KLOE 2004/2005 data campaign is analysed by reconstructing the Lambdap final state.
- Spectroscopy of kaonic atoms at DAFNE and J-PARCJ. Marton, A. Amirkhan, A. Baniahmad, M. Bazzi, G. Bellotti, C. Berucci, D. Bosnar, M. Bragadireanu, M. Cargnelli, C. Curceanu, A. Dawood Butt, R. Del Grande, L. Fabbietti, C. Fiorini, F. Ghio, C. Guaraldo, M. Iliescu, M. Iwasaki, P. Levi Sandri, M. Miliucci, P. Moskal, S. Niedźwiecki, S. Okada, D. Pietreanu, K. Piscicchia, H. Shi, M. Silarski, D. Sirghi, F. Sirghi, M. Skurzok, A. Spallone, H. Tatsuno, O. Vazquez Doce, E. Widmann and J. Zmeskalpublished in: EPJ Web Conf. 199 (2019) 03004The interaction of antikaons (K-) with nucleons and nuclei in the low-energy regime represents a very active research field in hadron physics. A unique and rather direct experimental access to the antikaon-nucleon scattering lengths is provided by precision X-ray spectroscopy of transitions in low-lying states in the lightest kaonic atoms (i.e. kaonic hydrogen and deuterium). In the SIDDHARTA experiment at the electron-positron collider DAFNE of LNFINFN we measured the most precise values of the strong interaction observables in conic hydrogen. The strong interaction on the 1s ground state of the electromagnetically bound K-p atom causes an energy shift and broadening of the 1s state. SIDDHARTA will extend the spectroscopy to kaonic deuterium to get access to the antikaon-neutron interaction and thus the isospin dependent scattering lengths. At J-PARC a kaon beam is used in a complementary experiment with a different setup for spectroscopy of kaonic deuterium atoms. The talk will give an overview of the of the upcoming experiments SIDDHARTA and the complementary experiment at J-PARC.Furthermore, the implications of the experiments for the theory of low-energy strong interaction with strangeness will be discussed.
- Near threshold kaon-kaon interaction in the reactions e+e-->K+K-gamma and e+e-->K0bar{K0}gammaL. Leśniak, F. Sobczuk, M. Silarski and F. Morawskipublished in: EPJ Web Conf. 199 (2019) 03002Strong interactions between pairs of the K+K- and K0bar{K0} mesons can be studied in radiative decays of phi(1020) mesons. We present a theoretical model of the reactions e+e-->K+K-gamma and e+e-->K0bar{K0}gamma. The K+K- and K0bar{K0} effective mass dependence of the differential cross sectionsis derived. The total cross sections and the branching fractions for the two radiative phi decays are calculated.
- Study of the time reversal symmetry in the decay of ortho-Positronium atoms using the J-PET detectorJ. Raj, M. Silarskipublished in: EPJ Web Conf. 199 (2019) 05015The Jagiellonian Positron Emission Tomograph (J-PET) is a novel device based on organic scintillators being developed at Jagiellonian University in Kraków, Poland. J-PET is an axially symmetric and high acceptance scanner that can be used as a multi-purpose detector system. It is well suited to pursue tests of discrete symmetries in decays of positronium in addition to medical imaging. J-PET enables measurement of both momenta and polarization vectors of annihilation photons. The latter is a unique feature of the J-PET detector which allows study of the time reversal symmetry violation operator constructed solely from the annihilation photons momenta before and after scattering within the detector.
- A charged particle veto detector for kaonic deuterium measurements at DAFNEM. Tüchler, J. Zmeskal, A. Amirkhani, M. Bazzi, G. Bellotti, C. Berucci, D. Bosnar, A.M. Bragadireanu, M. Cargnelli, C. Curceanu, A. Dawood Butt, R. Del Grande, L. De Paolis, L. Fabbietti, C. Fiorini, F. Ghio, C. Guaraldo, R.S. Hayano, M. Iliescu, M. Iwasaki, P.Levi Sandri, J. Marton, M. Miliucci, P. Moskal, D. Pietreanu, K. Piscicchia, A. Scordo, H. Shi, M. Silarski, D. Sirghi, F. Sirghi, M. Skurzok, A. Spallone, O. Vazquez Doce, E. Widmannpublished in: J. Phys. Conf. Ser. 1138 no.1 (2018) 012012The antikaon-nucleon interaction close to threshold provides crucial information on the interplay between spontaneous and explicit chiral symmetry breaking in low-energy QCD. In this context, the importance of kaonic deuterium x-ray spectroscopy has been well recognized, but no experimental results have yet been obtained due to the difficulty of the measurement. To measure the shift and width of the kaonic deuterium 1s state with an accuracy of 30 eV and 75 eV, respectively, an apparatus is under construction at the Laboratori Nazionali di Frascati. A detailed Monte Carlo simulation has shown that an increase of the signal to background ratio by a factor of ten will be required compared to the successfully performed kaonic hydrogen measurement (SIDDHARTA). Three pillars are essential for the newly developed experimental apparatus: a large area x-ray detector system (consisting of Silicon Drift Detectors), a lightweight cryogenic target system and a veto system, consisting of an outer veto detector (Veto-1) for active shielding and an inner veto detector (Veto-2) for charged particle suppression. For both veto systems, an excellent time resolution is required to distinguish kaons stopping in gas from direct kaon stops in the entrance window or side wall of the target. First test measurements on the Veto-2 system were performed. An average time resolution of (54 +- 2) ps and detection efficiencies of ~ 99 % were achieved.
- The kaonic atoms research program at DAFNE: overview and perspectivesC. Curceanu, A. Amirkhani, A Baniahmad, M. Bazzi, G. Bellotti, C. Berucci, D. Bosnar, A.M. Bragadireanu, M. Cargnelli, A. Dawood Butt, R. Del Grande, L. Fabbietti, C. Fiorini, F. Ghio, C. Guaraldo, M. Iliescu, M. Iwasaki, P.Levi Sandri, J. Marton, M. Miliucci, P. Moskal, S. Niedzwiecki, S. Okada, D. Pietreanu, K. Piscicchia, H. Shi, M. Silarski, D. Sirghi, F. Sirghi, M. Skurzok, A. Spallone, H. Tatsuno, O. Vazquez Doce, E. Widmann, J. Zmeskalpublished in: J. Phys. Conf. Ser. 1138 no. 1 (2018) 012011The interaction of antikaons with nucleons and nuclei in the low-energy regime represents an active research field in hadron physics with still many important open questions. The investigation of light kaonic atoms is, in this context, a unique tool to obtain precise information on this interaction. The energy shift and broadening of the lowest-lying states of such atoms, induced by the kaon-nucleus strong interaction, can be determined with high precision from atomic X-ray spectroscopy. This experimental method provides unique information to understand the low energy kaon-nucleus interaction at threshold. The lightest atomic systems, kaonic hydrogen and kaonic deuterium, deliver the isospin-dependent kaon-nucleon scattering lengths. The most precise kaonic hydrogen measurement to date, together with an exploratory measurement of kaonic deuterium, were carried out by the SIDDHARTA collaboration at the DAFNE electron-positron collider of LNF-INFN, by combining the excellent quality kaon beam delivered by the collider with new experimental techniques, as fast and precise X-ray detectors: Silicon Drift Detectors. The measurement of kaonic deuterium will be realized in the near future by SIDDHARTA-2, a major upgrade of SIDDHARTA. In this paper an overview of the main results obtained by SIDDHARTA together with the future plans, are given.
- CP, T and CPT tests with neutral kaons at KLOE-2M. Silarskipublished in: PoS(HQL2018)029We report on the recent results on CP, T and CPT tests in the neutral kaon sector obtained with the KLOE dataset. Search for the CP-violating decay KS?3?0 is described. We present also recent measurement of the charge asymmetry for the KS??e? decay and preliminary results of direct test of T and CPT in neutral kaon transitions. Prospects of further improvement of these tests with KLOE-2 dataset are also given.
- Low Energy Antikaon-Nucleon/Nuclei Interaction Studies by AMADEUSK. Piscicchia, M. Cargnelli, C. Curceanu, R. Del Grande, L. Fabbietti, C. Guaraldo, J. Marton, P. Moskal, A. Scordo, M. Silarski, D. L. Sirghi, M. Skurzok, I. Tucakovic, O. Vazquez Doce, E. Widmann, S. Wycech, J. Zmeskalpublished in: Acta Phys. Polon. Supp. 11 (2018) 609-616The AMADEUS experiment at the DAFNE collider of LNF-INFN deals with the investigation of the at-rest, or low-momentum, K- interactions in light nuclear targets, with the aim to constrain the low energy QCD models in the strangeness sector. The 0 step of the experiment consisted in the reanalysis of the 2004/2005 KLOE data, exploiting K- absorptions in H, 4He, 9Be and 12C, leading to the first invariant mass spectroscopic study with very low momentum (about 100 MeV) in-flight K- captures. With AMADEUS step 1 a dedicated pure Carbon target was implemented in the central region of the KLOE detector, providing a high statistic sample of pure at-rest K- nuclear interaction. The first measurement of the non-resonant transition amplitude |AK-n->Lambda pi-| at ?s = 33 MeV below the KN threshold is presented, in relation with the Lambda(1405) properties studies.
- The kaonic atoms research program at DAFNE: from SIDDHARTA to SIDDHARTA-2A. Scordo, A. Amirkhani, M. Bazzi, G. Bellotti, C. Berucci, D. Bosnar, A.M. Bragadireanu, M. Cargnelli, C. Curceanu, A. Daewood Butt, R. Del Grande, L. Fabbietti, C. Fiorini, F. Ghio, C. Guaraldo, R.S. Hayano, M. Iliescu, M. Iwasaki, P. Levi Sandri, J. Marton, M. Miliucci, P. Moskal, D. Pietreanu, K. Piscicchia, H. Shi, M. Silarski, D. Sirghi, F. Sirghi, M. Skurzok, A. Spallone, H. Tatsuno, O. Vazquez Doce, E. Widmann, J. Zmeskalpublished in: EPJ Web Conf. 181 (2018) 01004The interaction of antikaons with nucleons and nuclei in the low-energy regime represents an active research field in hadron physics with still many important open questions. The investigation of light kaonic atoms, in which one electron is replaced by a negatively charged kaon, is a unique tool to provide precise information on this interaction; the energy shift and the broadening of the low-lying states of such atoms, induced by the kaon-nucleus hadronic interaction, can be determined with high precision from the atomic X-ray spectroscopy, and this experimental method provides unique information to understand the low energy kaon-nucleus interaction at the production threshold. The lightest atomic systems, like the kaonic hydrogen and the kaonic deuterium deliver, in a model-independent way, the isospin-dependent kaon-nucleon scattering lengths. The most precise kaonic hydrogen measurement to-date, together with an exploratory measurement of kaonic deuterium, were carried out in 2009 by the SIDDHARTA collaboration at the DA?NE electron-positron collider of LNF-INFN, combining the excellent quality kaon beam delivered by the collider with new experimental techniques, as fast and very precise X-ray detectors, like the Silicon Drift Detectors. The SIDDHARTA results triggered new theoretical work, which achieved major progress in the understanding of the low-energy strong interaction with strangeness reflected by the antikaon-nucleon scattering lengths calculated with the antikaon-proton amplitudes constrained by the SIDDHARTA data. The most important open question is the experimental determination of the hadronic energy shift and width of kaonic deuterium; presently, a major upgrade of the setup, SIDDHARTA-2, is being realized to reach this goal. In this paper, the results obtained in 2009 and the proposed SIDDHARTA-2 upgrades are presented.
- Studies of low-energy K- nuclear interactions by AMADEUSR. Del Grande, M. Bazzi, G. Belloti, A. M. Bragadireanu, D. Bosnar, A. D. Butt, M. Cargnelli, C. Curceanu, L. De Paolis, L. Fabbietti, C. Fiorini, F. Ghio, C. Guaraldo, R. S. Hayano, M. Iliescu, M. Iwasaki, P. Levi Sandri, J. Marton, M. Miliucci, P. Moskal, S. Okada, D. Pietreanu, K. Piscicchia, A. Scordo, H. Shi, M. Silarski, D. L. Sirghi, F. Sirghi, M. Skurzok, A. Spallone,O. Vazquez Doce, E. Widmann, S. Wycech, J. Zmeskalpublished in: EPJ Web Conf. 182 (2018) 02035The goal of the AMADEUS experiment is to shed light on unsolved fundamental issues in the non-perturbative strangeness QCD sector through the study of lowenergy K- hadronic interactions with light nuclear targets. The main open questions are the controversial nature of the Delta(1405) state, which is investigated in hyperon-pion correlation studies, and the possible existence of exotic antikaon multi-nucleon clusters, whose search in K- induced reactions is intimately related to the studies of the K- multi-nucleon absorption processes in hyperon-nucleon/nucleus channels. The DAFNE collider at the INFN-LNF provides unique monochromatic low-momentum kaons from the ? meson decay almost at-rest, suitable for the AMADEUS studies. The KLOE detector is exploited as an active target, in order to obtain excellent acceptance and resolution data for K- nuclear capture on H, 4He, 9Be and 12C, both at-rest and in-flight.
- Low energy interaction studies of negative kaons in light nuclear targets by AMADEUSK. Piscicchia, M. Bazzi, G. Belotti, A. M. Bragadireanu, D. Bosnar, A. D. Butt, M. Cargnelli, C. Curceanu, R. Del Grande, L. De Paolis, L. Fabbietti, C. Fiorini, F. Ghio, C. Guaraldo, R. S Hayano, M. Iliescu, M. Iwasaki, P. Levi Sandri, J. Marton, M. Miliucci, P. Moskal, S. Okada, D. Pietreanu, A. Scordo, M. Silarski, D. L. Sirghi, F. Sirghi, M. Skurzok, A. Spallone, O. Vazquez Doce, E. Widmann, S. Wycech, J. Zmeskalpublished in: EPJ Web Conf. 181 (2018) 01005The AMADEUS collaboration is performing experimental investigations in the sector of the low energy strangeness hadron physics by taking advantage of the DAFNE collider, which provides a unique source of monochromatic low-momentum kaons and exploiting the KLOE detector as an active target. The K- single and multi-nuclear absorption on H, 4He, 9Be and 12C, both at-rest and in-flight, are studied with the aim to determine the nature of the controversial Lambda(1405), the non-resonant hyperon pion formation amplitude below the K?N threshold, the yield and cross sections of K- multi-nucleon absorptions intimately connected to the antikaon multi-nucleon clusters properties and the K- scattering cross sections on light nuclear targets. These studies have a strong impact on the non-perturbative strangeness QCD with implications ranging from nuclear physics to the equation of state of neutron stars.
- Studies of discrete symmetries in decays of positronium atomsE. Czerwiński, C. Curceanu, K. Dulski, A. Gajos, M. Gorgol, A. Heczko, B. C. Hiesmayr, B. Jasińska, D. Kisielewska, G. Korcyl, B. Korzeniak, P. Kowalski, T. Kozik, W. Krzemień, E. Kubicz, W. Migdał, M. Mohammed, S. Niedźwiecki, M. Pałka, M. Pawlik-Niedźwiecka, L. Raczyński, J. Raj, Z. Rudy, S. Sharma, S. Shivani, R. Y. Shopa, M. Silarski, M. Skurzok, W. Wiślicki, B. Zgardzińska, M. Zieliński and P. Moskalpublished in: EPJ Web Conf. 181 (2018) 01019A positronium - a bound state of electron and positron - is an eigenstate of parity and charge conjugation operators which decays into photons. It is a unique laboratory to study discrete symmetries whose precision is limited, in principle, by the effects due to the weak interactions expected at the level of 10?14 and photon-photon interactions expected at the level of 10-9. The Jagiellonian Positron Emission Tomograph (J-PET) is a detector for medical imaging as well as for physics studies involving detection of electronpositron annihilation into photons. The physics case covers the areas of discrete symmetries studies and genuine multipartite entanglement. The J-PET detector has high angular and time resolution and allows for determination of spin of the positronium and the momenta and polarization vectors of annihilation quanta. In this article, we present the potential of the J-PET system for studies of discrete symmetries in decays of positronium atoms.
- Search for Deeply Bound Kaonic Nuclear States with AMADEUSM. Skurzok, M. Cargnelli, C. Curceanu, R. Del Grande, L. Fabbietti, C. Guaraldo, J. Marton, P. Moskal, K. Piscicchia, A. Scordo, M. Silarski, D. L. Sirghi, I. Tucakovic, O. Vazquez Doce, S. Wycech, E. Widmann, J. Zmeskalpublished in: EPJ Web Conf. 165 (2017) 01046We briefly report on the search for Deeply Bound Kaonic Nuclear States with AMADEUS in the Sigma0p channel following K- absorption on 12C and outline future perspectives for this work.
- Latest studies on the reaction e+ e- --> K + K- gammaL. Leśniak, M. Silarskipublished in: EPJ Web Conf. 166 (2018) 00018Recent theoretical studies of the e+ e- -> K + K- gamma process are described. Three main reaction mechanisms are considered: the initial state radiation, the final state radiation and the strong interaction between the outgoing K+ K- mesons. The K+ K- effective mass distributions are derived for three different models which in past have been used for a description of the e+ e- -> pi+ pi- gamma data. Also the numerical results for the angular photon and kaon distributions are presented. A new model of the e+ e- -> M_1 M_2 gamma reactions is outlined which can serve for multichannel analyses of the radiative processes with a production of two pseudoscalar mesons M_1 and M_2.
- J-PET: A novel TOF-PET detector based on plastic scintillatorsPaweł Moskal, Dominika Alfs, Tomasz Bednarski, Piotr Białas, Catalina Curceanu, Eryk Czerwiński, Kamil Dulski, Aleksander Gajos, Bartosz Głowacz, Marek Gorgol, Beatrix Hiesmayr, Bożena Jasińska, Daria Kamińska, Grzegorz Korcyl, Paweł Kowalski, Tomasz Kozik, Wojciech Krzemień, Ewelina Kubicz, Muhsin Mohammed, Monika Pawlik-Niedźwiecka, Szymon Niedźwiecki, Marek Pałka, Lech Raczyźski, Zbigniew Rudy, Oleksandr Rundel, Neha Gupta Sharma, Michał Silarski, Jerzy Smyrski, Adam Strzelecki, Anna Wieczorek, Wojciech Wiślicki, Bożena Zgardzińska, Marcin Zielińskipublished in: IEEE Xplore: Nucl. Sci. Symp., Med. Imag. Conf. and Room-Temp. Semiconductor Detector Workshop, DOI:10.1109/NSSMIC.2016.8069617
- Statistical Analysis of Time Resolution of the J-PET ScannerL. Raczyński, W. Wiślicki, P. Kowalski, W. Krzemień, D. Alfs, T. Bednarski, P. Białas, C. Curceanu, E. Czerwiński, K. Dulski, A. Gajos, B. Głowacz, M. Gorgol, B. Hiesmayr, B. Jasińska, D. Kamińska, G. Korcyl, T. Kozik, N. Krawczyk, E. Kubicz, M. Mohammed, M. Pawlik-Niedźwiecka, S. Niedźwiecki, M. Pałka, Z. Rudy, O. Rundel, N. Gupta Sharma, M. Silarski, J. Smyrski, A. Strzelecki, A. Wieczorek, B. Zgardzińska, M. Zieliński, P. Moskalpublished in: IEEE Xplore: Nucl. Sci. Symp., Med. Imag. Conf. and Room-Temp. Semiconductor Detector Workshop, DOI:10.1109/NSSMIC.2016.8069407
- Low-energy Antikaon-Nucleon Absorption Studies by AMADEUSK. Piscicchia,..., R. Del Grande, ..., P. Moskal, ..., M. Silarski, ..., M. Skurzok, ...published in: Acta Phys. Polon. Supp. 10 (2017) 1125The AMADEUS experiment investigates the low-energy kaon?nuclei hadronic interaction at the DA?NE collider at LNF-INFN. In particular, the study of hyperon resonances formation, following K--induced reactions in light nuclear targets, will be presented. The 0 step of the experiment consisted in the reanalysis of the 2004/2005 KLOE data, exploiting K- absorptions in H, 4He, 9Be and 12C, leading to the first invariant mass spectroscopic study with very low momentum (about 100 MeV) in-flight K- captures. With AMADEUS step 1, a dedicated pure carbon target was implemented in the central region of the KLOE detector, providing a high statistic sample of pure at-rest K nuclear interaction. The results obtained in the analyses of the hyperon?pion correlated events, searching for the resonant shapes of Y* states, will be described.
- Experimental results on multi-nucleonic K- absorptions in light nucleiO. Vazques Doce, ..., E. Czerwinski, ..., W. Krzemien, ..., P. Moskal, ..., M. Silarski, et al. (AMADEUS Collaboration)published in: EPJ Web Conf. 137 (2017) 09010
- K- multi-nucleon absorption processes in hadronic interaction studiesR. Del Grande, ..., E. Czerwinski, ..., W. Krzemien, ..., P. Moskal, ..., M. Silarski, et al. (AMADEUS Collaboration)published in: PoS BORMIO2016 (2016) 010The AMADEUS collaboration aims to afford unprecedented informations on the K- low-energy interactions with light nuclei, thanks to the unique monochromatic low-momentum kaons pro- vided by the DAFNE collider and the excellent acceptance and resolution of the KLOE detector, used as an active target. We will report on the measurement of the yield of the K ? two nucleon absorption process, obtained by studying Sigma0 p pairs produced in the final state of the K-12C ab- sorptions. Further, the possible contribution of a ppK- bound state was investigated. The best fit corresponding to a gives space to a yield of ppK-/K- stop = (0.044 ? 0.009 stat +0.004 ?0.005 syst) ×10 binding energy and a width of 45 and 30 MeV/c 2 , respectively. A statistical analysis of this result shows although that its significance is only at the level of 1sigma.
- Studies of discrete symmetries in a purely leptonic system using the Jagiellonian Positron Emission TomographP. Moskal, D. Alfs, T. Bednarski, P. Białas, C. Curceanu, E. Czerwiński, K. Dulski, A. Gajos, B. Głowacz, N. Gupta-Sharma, M. Gorgol, B. C. Hiesmayr, B. Jasińska, D. Kamińska, O. Khreptak, G. Korcyl, P. Kowalski, W. Krzemień, N. Krawczyk, E. Kubicz, M. Mohammed, Sz. Niedźwiecki, M. Pawlik-Niedźwiecka, L. Raczyński, Z. Rudy, M. Silarski, J. Smyrski, A. Wieczorek, W. Wiślicki, B. Zgardzińska, and M. Zielińskipublished in: EPJ Web Conf. 130 (2016) 07015Discrete symmetries such as parity (P), charge-conjugation (C) and time reversal (T) are of fundamental importance in physics and cosmology. Breaking of charge conjugation symmetry (C) and its combination with parity (CP) constitute necessary conditions for the existence of the asymmetry between matter and antimatter in the observed Universe. The presently known sources of discrete symmetries violations can account for only a tiny fraction of the excess of matter over antimatter. So far CP and T symmetries violations were observed only for systems involving quarks and they were never reported for the purely leptonic objects. In this article we describe briefly an experimental proposal for the test of discrete symmetries in the decays of positronium atom which is made exclusively of leptons. The experiments are conducted by means of the Jagiellonian Positron Emission Tomograph (J-PET) which is constructed from strips of plastic scintillators enabling registration of photons from the positronium annihilation. J-PET tomograph together with the positronium target system enable to measure expectation values for the discrete symmetries odd operators constructed from (i) spin vector of the ortho-positronium atom, (ii) momentum vectors of photons originating from the decay of positronium, and (iii) linear polarization direction of annihilation photons. Linearly polarized positronium will be produced in the highly porous aerogel or polymer targets, exploiting longitudinally polarized positrons emitted by the sodium 22Na isotope. Information about the polarization vector of orthopositronium will be available on the event by event basis and will be reconstructed from the known position of the positron source and the reconstructed position of the orthopositronium annihilation. In 2016 the first tests and calibration runs are planned, and the data collection with high statistics will commence in the year 2017.
- J-PET detector system for studies of the electron-positron annihilationsM. Pawlik-Niedźwiecka, O. Khreptak, A. Gajos, A. Wieczorek, D. Alfs, T. Bednarski, P. Białas, C. Curceanu, E. Czerwiński, K. Dulski, B. Głowacz, N. Gupta-Sharma, M. Gorgol, B. C. Hiesmayr, B. Jasińska, D. Kamińska, G. Korcyl, P. Kowalski, W. Krzmień, N. Krawczyk, E. Kubicz, M. Mohammed, Sz. Niedźwiecki, L. Raczyński, Z. Rudy, M. Silarski, W. Wiślicki, B. Zgardzińska, M. Zieliński, and P. Moskalpublished in: EPJ Web Conf. 130 (2016) 07020Jagiellonian Positron Emission Tomograph (J-PET) has been recently constructed at the Jagiellonian University as a prototype of a cost-effective scanner for the metabolic imaging of the whole human body. J-PET detector is optimized for the measurement of momentum and polarization of photons from the electron-positron annihilations. It is built out of strips of plastic scintillators, forming three cylindrical layers. As detector of gamma quanta it will be used for studies of discrete symmetries and multiparticle entanglement of photons originating from the decays of ortho-positronium atoms.
- Theoretical studies of the reaction e+e- ->K+K-gammaL. Leśniak, M. Silarskipublished in: EPJ Web Conf. 130 (2016) 06003We present studies of the e+e- -> K+K-gamma reaction for the e+e- center-of-mass energies close to the phi(1020) meson mass. Different mechanisms leading to the final state are considered. The strong interaction amplitudes of the K+K- pairs in the S - wave are taken into account. In addition, the photon emission in the initial state, the final state radiation effects and all the possible interference terms are included in the transition matrix elements. The K+K- effective mass distributions and the angular dependence of the reaction cross-section are calculated.
- A novel TOF-PET detector based on plastic scintillatorsW. Krzemien, D. Alfs, T. Bednarski, P. Białas, E. Czerwiński, K. Dulski, A. Gajos, B. Głowacz, M. Gorgol, ´ B. Jasińska, D. Kamińska, Ł. Kapłon, G. Korcyl, P. Kowalski, T. Kozik, E. Kubicz, M. Mohammed, ´ Sz. Niedźwiecki, M. Pałka, M. Pawlik-Niedźwiecka, L. Raczyński, Z. Rudy, O. Rundel, N.G. Sharma, M. Silarski, A. Słomski, K. Stola, A. Strzelecki, A. Wieczorek, W. Wiślicki, B. K. Zgradzińska, M. Zieliński, P. Moskalpublished in: Nuclear Science Symposium and Medical Imaging Conference (NSS/MIC) (2015) IEEEThe Jagiellonian-PET (J-PET) collaboration is developing a novel TOF-PET tomography scanner based mainly on the timing of signals instead of their amplitudes for the reconstruction of Lines-of-Response, therefore a very precise time resolution is one of the main challenges of the project. The novelty of the concept lies in employing long strips of plastic scintillators instead of crystals as detectors of the annihilation quanta. The diagnostic chamber consists of plastic scintillator strips readout by pairs of photomultipliers arranged axially around a cylindrical surface. To take advantage of the superior timing properties of plastic scintillators, the signals are sampled in the voltage domain with an accuracy of 20 ps by novel ultrafast electronics, and the data are collected by the FPGA-based trigger-less data acquisition system. The hit-position and hittime are reconstructed by the dedicated reconstruction methods based on the compressing sensing theory and a library of synchronized model signals. The solutions are subject of sixteen patent applications. So far, a time-of-flight resolution of 125 ps (?) was achieved for a double-strip prototype with 30 cm fieldof-view (FOV). It is by more than a factor of two better than the TOF resolution achievable in current TOF-PET modalities and at the same time, the FOV of 30 cm long prototype is significantly larger with respect to typical commercial PET devices. The axial geometry gives unique possibilities of combining J-PET with Computed Tomography or with Magnetic Resonance Imaging, allowing to perform the simultaneous scan of the patient with both methods.
- The KLOE-2 experiment at DAFNEM. Silarskipublished in: EPJ Web Conf. 130 (2016) 01020The KLOE-2 experiment at the INFN Laboratori Nazionali di Frascati (LNF) is currently taking data at the upgraded e+e- DAFNE collider. Present Run II follows a development phase to assess the feasibility of a long term acquisition program, Run I, which successfully ended in July 2015 with 1 fb-1 integrated luminosity collected in less than eight months. KLOE-2 represents the continuation of the KLOE experiment with a new physics program. The KLOE detector has undergone several upgrades including state-of-the-art cylindrical GEM Inner Tracker, electron-positron taggers for the gammagamma-physics studies and new calorimeters around the interaction point. In this article we briefly present the overview of the KLOE-2 experiment including the present status and achievements together with the physics plans.
- Close to threshold eta' meson production in proton-proton collisions at COSY-11E. Czerwiński, P. Moskal, M. Silarskipublished in: EPJ Web Conf. 81 (2014) 02007Intensive quest for the eta and eta' bound states is currently ongoing at both theoretical and experimental levels e.g. at COSY, ELSA, GSI, JINR, JPARC, LPI, and MAMI. These studies were already supported by data provided by the COSY-11 collaboration including determination of the total width of the eta' meson. In addition, the first rough estimation of the eta'-N interaction from the excitation function of the cross section for the pp-->pp eta' reaction was also performed. Recent precise measurement in this field from the COSY-11 experiment allows to summarize results on the eta' meson production cross section in proton-proton collisions at COSY-11.
- System Response Kernel Calculation for List-mode Reconstruction in Strip PET DetectorP. Białas, J. Kowal, A. Strzelecki, T. Bednarski, E. Czerwiński, Ł. Kapłon, A. Kochanowski, G. Korcyl, P. Kowalski, T. Kozik, W. Krzemień, M. Molenda, P. Moskal, Sz. Niedźwiecki, M. Pałka, M. Pawlik, L. Raczyński, Z. Rudy, P. Salabura, N. Gupta-Sharma, M. Silarski, A. Słomski, J. Smyrski, W. Wiślicki, M. Zielińskipublished in: Acta Phys. Polon. B Suppl. 6 (2013) 1027-1036Reconstruction of the image in Positron Emission Tomographs (PET) requires the knowledge of the system response kernel which describes the contribution of each pixel (voxel) to each tube of response (TOR). This is especially important in list-mode reconstruction systems, where an efficient analytical approximation of such function is required. In this contribution, we present a derivation of the system response kernel for a novel 2D strip PET.
- Applications of Neutron Activation SpectroscopyM. Silarskipublished in: Acta Phys. Polon. B Suppl. 6 (2013) 1061-1066Since the discovery in 1932, neutrons became a basis of many methods used not only in research, but also in industry and engineering. Among others, the exceptional role in the modern nuclear engineering is played by the neutron activation spectroscopy, based on the interaction of neutron flux with atomic nuclei. In this article, we shortly describe application of this method in medicine and detection of hazardous substances.
- Application of Compressive Sensing Theory for the Reconstruction of Signals in Plastic ScintillatorsL. Raczyński, P. Kowalski, T. Bednarski, P. Białas, E. Czerwiński, Ł. Kapłon, A. Kochanowski, G. Korcyl, J. Kowal, T. Kozik, W. Krzemień, M. Molenda, P. Moskal, Sz. Niedźwiecki, M. Pałka, M. Pawlik, Z. Rudy, P. Salabura, N.G. Sharma, M. Silarski, A. Słomski, J. Smyrski, A. Strzelecki, W. Wiślicki, M. Zielińskipublished in: Acta Phys. Polon. B Suppl. 6 (2013) 1121-1127Compressive Sensing theory says that it is possible to reconstruct a measured signal if an enough sparse representation of this signal exists in comparison to the number of random measurements. This theory was applied to reconstruct signals from measurements of plastic scintillators. Sparse representation of obtained signals was found using SVD transform.
- Status and perspectives of the KLOE-2 experimentF. Achilli, ..., I. Balwierz, E. Czerwiński, P. Moskal, M. Silarski, J. Zdebik et al.published in: Particle Physics at the Tercentenary of Mikhail Lomonosov: pp. 324-327.The KLOE experiment has acquired an integrated luminosity greater than 2.5 fb?1 at the peak of ?-resonance on the e+e? DA?NE collider in the Frascati National Laboratory (LNF). New data taking with the upgraded detector (KLOE-2) and DA?NE should start in the end of 2011. Main modifications of the detector and new interaction region give a unique possibility to collect about 20 fb?1 in 3 years. The KLOE-2 wide scientific program which contains the experimental study of CP and CPT symmetries, quantum decoherence, ?? physics and search of the dark matter is presented and briefly discussed.
- Recent results on hadron physics at KLOED. Babusci, ..., I. Balwierz - Pytko, E. Czerwiński, A. Gajos, K. Kacprzak, P. Moskal, M. Silarski, W. Wiślicki, J. Zdebik et al.published in: 2013 : QCD and High Energy Interactions : proceedings of the XLVIIIth Rencontres de Moriond La Thuile, Aosta Valley, Italy-MarchOne of the basic motivations of the KLOE and KLOE-2 collaborations is the test of fundamental symmetries and the search for phenomena beyond the Standard Model via the hadronic and leptonic decays of ground-state mesons and via their production in the fusion of virtual gamma quanta exchanged between colliding electrons and positrons. This contribution includes brief description of results of recent analysis of the KLOE data aimed at (i) the search for the dark matter boson, (ii) determination of the hadronic and light-by-light contributions to the g-2 muon anomaly and (iii) tests of QCD anomalies.
- Search for the Ks-->3pi0 decay with the KLOE detectorM. Silarskipublished in: EPJ Web Conf. 37 (2012) 05004The Ks-->3pi0 decay is a pure CP violating process which, assuming CPT invariance, allows one to investigate direct CP violation. This decay has not been observed so far, and the best upper limit on the branching ratio BR(Ks-->3pi0) < 1.2 x 10-7 is two orders of magnitude larger than predictions based on the Standard Model. In this article we present the search for the Ks-->3pi0 decay performed with the KLOE detection system operating at the DAFNE phi-factory at the Frascati Laboratory of the Italian Institute of Nuclear Physics. We describe the experimental techniques used in the background rejection and signal events selection as well as the evaluation of almost five times lower upper limit on the Ks-->3pi0 branching ratio. We discuss shortly also the perspectives for a new measurement using the KLOE-2 apparatus equipped with a new inner tracker and the calorimeters at low theta angle.
- Recent results on CP and CPT tests at KLOE/KLOE-2A. Di Domenico, M. Silarski, on behalf of the KLOE-2 collaborationpublished in: Nuclear Physics B Proc. Suppl. 233 (2012) 73Neutral kaon pairs produced in phi decays offer a unique possibility to perform fundamental tests of discrete symmetries. Among the most recent results obtained by the KLOE experiment at DAFNE, the Frascati phi-factory, there is the new best limit on the branching ratio of the CP-violating decay Ks --> 3pi0, BR < 2.6 x 10^?8 at 90% C.L..The search for possible violations of the CPT symmetry and Lorentz invariance in the context of the Standard-Model Extension (SME) is also described; the new analysis approach fully exploits quantum interferometry in phi --> KsKl -->pi+pi?, pi+pi? decays. Finally the status and perspectives of the new data taking campaign with the KLOE-2 experiment at the upgraded DAFNE machine are briefly reviewed.
- MATRIX-PET: A novel PET detector concept based on large blocks of organic scintillatorsP. Moskal, T. Bednarski, A. Heczko, M. Kajetanowicz, Ł. Kapłon, A. Kochanowski, G. Konopka - Cupiał, G. Korcyl, W. Krzemień, K. Łojek, W. Migdał, M. Molenda, S. Niedzwiecki, P. Salabura. M. Silarski, A. Słomski, J. Smyrski, Z. Rudy, J. Zdebik, M. Zielińskipublished in: Nuclear Medicine Review 15 (2012) A47-A48Matrix-PET is a novel detector solution for the Positron Emission Tomography. It is one of the two methods which is developed at present at the Jagiellonian University.
- STRIP-PET: Concept of TOF-PET scanner based on polymer scintillator stripsP. Moskal, T. Bednarski, A. Heczko, M. Kajetanowicz, Ł. Kapłon, A. Kochanowski, G. Konopka - Cupiał, G. Korcyl, W. Krzemień, K. Łojek, W. Migdał, M. Molenda, S. Niedźwiecki, P. Salabura. M. Silarski, A. Słomski, J. Smyrski, Z. Rudy, J. Zdebik, M. Zielińskipublished in: Nuclear Medicine Review 15 (2012) A61-A63The aim of the poster is to present an idea of a new PET scanner based on strips of polymer scintillators arranged in a large acceptance detector system which may allow a simultaneous diagnostic of a large fraction of (or even the whole) human body.
- Polymer Scintillator Detectors for TOF-PET with Large Longitudinal Field of ViewP. Moskal, T. Bednarski, A. Heczko, M. Kajetanowicz, Ł. Kapłon, A. Kochanowski, G. Konopka - Cupiał, G. Korcyl, W. Krzemień, K. Łojek, W. Migdał, M. Molenda, S. Niedzwiecki, P. Salabura. M. Silarski, A. Słomski, J. Smyrski, Z. Rudy, J. Zdebik, M. Zielińskipublished in: Nuclear Medicine Review 15 (2012) A25-A26In this contribution we present a concept of the large acceptance detector systems based on the organic scintillators which in the future may allow for simultaneous diagnostic of large fraction of the human body.
- U boson searches at KLOEF. Archilli, ..., I. Balwierz, .., E. Czerwiński, ..., P. Moskal, ..., M. Silarski, ..., W. Wiślicki, ..., J. Zdebik, et al.published in: J. Phys. Conf. Ser. 335 (2011) 012067The existence of a secluded gauge sector could explain several puzzling astrophysical observations. This hypothesis can be tested at low energy e+e- colliders such as DAPHNE. Preliminary results obtained with KLOE data and perpectives for the KLOE-2 run, where a larger data sample is expected, are discussed.
- Hadron physics with KLOE-2E. Czerwiński, ..., I. Balwierz, P. Moskal, M. Silarski, J. Zdebik et alpublished in: Nucl. Phys. Proc. Suppl. 207-208:137-140 (2010)In the upcoming month the KLOE-2 data taking campaign will start at the upgraded DAFNE phi-factory of INFN Laboratori Nazionali di Frascati. The main goal is to collect an integrated luminosity of about 20 fb (-1) in 3-4 years in order to refine and extend the KLOE program on both kaon physics and hadron spectroscopy. Here the expected improvements on the results of hadron spectroscopy are presented and briefly discussed.
- Study of the near threshold pp-->ppK+K- reaction in view of the K+K- final state interactionM. Silarski, P. Moskalpublished in: Acta Phys. Polon. Supp. 3 (2010) 937-942Measurements of the pp-->ppK+K- reaction, performed near the kinematical threshold with the experiment COSY-11 at the Cooler Synchrotron COSY, reveal a significant discrepancy between obtained excitation function and theoretical expectations neglecting interactions of kaons. In order to deepen our knowledge about the low energy dynamics of the ppKK system we investigated population of events for the pp-->ppK+K- reaction as a function of the invariant masses of two particle subsystems. Based for the first time on the low-energy K+K- invariant mass distributions and the generalized Dalitz plot analysis, we estimated the scattering length for the K+K- interaction.
- Dynamics of the near threshold eta meson production in proton-proton interactionP. Moskal, R. Czyżykiewicz, H.-H. Adam, A. Budzanowski, E. Czerwiński, D. Gil, D. Grzonka, M. Janusz, L. Jarczyk, B. Kamys, A. Khoukaz, K. Kilian, P. Klaja, W. Oelert, C. Piskor-Ignatowicz, J. Przerwa, B. Rejdych, J. Ritman, T. Sefzick, M. Siemaszko, M. Silarski, J. Smyrski, A. Täschner, P. Winter, M. Wolke, P. Wüstner, M. Zieliński, W. Zipperpublished in: Proceedings of The 11th Workshop on The Physics of Excited Nucleons, 5?8 September 2007, Bonn, GermanyWe present the results of measurements of the analysing power for the p(pol)p --> pp eta reaction at the excess energies of Q=10 and 36 MeV, and interpret these results within the framework of the meson exchange models. The determined values of the analysing power at both excess energies are consistent with zero implying that the eta meson is produced predominantly in s-wave.
- Study of the low energy dynamics in ppK+K- system with the COSY-11 magnetic spectrometerM. Silarski, P. Moskal, D. Gil, J. Smyrskipublished in: Acta. Phys. Polon. B Proc. Supp. 2 (2009) 97-104The near threshold production of K+K- pairs in proton-proton collisions has been investigated at the cooler synchrotron COSY below and above the threshold for the phi meson production. The experimental excitation function determined for the pp-->ppK+K- reaction differs from theoretical expectations including proton-proton final state interaction. The discrepancy may be assigned to the influence of K+K- or pK interaction. In this article we present distributions of the cross section for the pp-->ppK+K- reaction as a function of the invariant masses of two and three particle subsystems at excess energies of Q=10 MeV and 28 MeV.
- Near threshold production of the pseudoscalar mesons at the COSY-11 facilityP. Moskal, R. Czyżykiewicz, H.-H. Adam, A. Budzanowski, E. Czerwiński, D. Gil, D. Grzonka, M. Janusz, L. Jarczyk, B. Kamys, A. Khoukaz, K. Kilian, P. Klaja, W. Oelert, C. Piskor-Ignatowicz, J. Przerwa, B. Rejdych, J. Ritman, T. Sefzick, M. Siemaszko, M. Silarski, J. Smyrski, A. Täschner, P. Winter, M. Wolke, P. Wüstner, M. Zieliński, W. Zipperpublished in: Proceedings of The 11th Workshop on The Physics of Excited Nucleons, 5?8 September 2007, Bonn, GermanyWe summarise measurements of the COSY-11 collaboration concerning the excitation functions of the near threshold pseudoscalar meson production in the proton-proton interaction. The results are discussed in the context of the meson-nucleon and hyperon-nucleon interactions. We conclude that the $eta$-proton interaction is significantly stronger than the eta'-proton interaction. Similarly, we found that the hyperon Lambda interacts with the nucleon considerably stronger than the hyperon Sigma, and that the interaction of (K-)-proton is much stronger than this of the (K+)-proton
- Study of the hadronic production of kaon pairs below the threshold for the phi mesonP. Moskal, M. Silarski, A. Budzanowski, E. Czerwiński, R. Czyżykiewicz, D. Gil, D. Grzonka, M. Janusz, L. Jarczyk, B. Kamys, A. Khoukaz, P. Klaja, W. Oelert, C. Piskor-Ignatowicz, J. Przerwa, B. Rejdych, J. Ritman, T. Sefzick, M. Siemaszko, J. Smyrski, A. Taschner, P. Winter, M. Wolke, P. Wustner, M. Zieliński, W. Zipper, J. Zdebikpublished in: Nucl. Phys. Proc. Suppl. 194 (2008) 181-182The near threshold production of K+K- pairs in proton-proton collisions has been investigated at the cooler synchrotron COSY below and above the threshold for the phi meson using the COSY-11 and ANKE facilities, respectively. The excitation function determined for the pp ->ppK+K- reaction revealed a statistically significant enhancement close to the threshold which may plausibly be assigned to the influence of the K-p interaction. In addition, observed consistently by both groups, a strong enhancement at low values of the ratio of the K-p to K+p invariant mass distributions shows that the proton interacts much stronger with K- than with K+. In this report we focus on the measurements performed by the COSY-11 collaboration. We explain the experimental method used and present main results of completed analyses as well as a new qualitative elaboration of the ppK+K- events population on the Goldhaber plot. We conclude with the observation that event densities increase at the region where the influence from the K+K- interaction is expected.
- Luminosity determination for the quasi-free nuclear reactions.R. Czyżykiewicz, P. Moskal, E. Czerwiński, J. Klaja, P. Klaja, M. Zieliński, M. Silarski et al.published in: AIP Conf. Proc. 950 (2007) 118-124A method for the calculation of the luminosity for the proton-nucleus collisions based on the quasi-free proton-proton scattering is presented. As an example of application the integrated luminosity for the scattering of protons off the deuteron target is determined for the experiment of the quasi-free pn --> pneta reaction performed by means of the COSY-11 facility.
- Chodrow plot and the interaction of K+K-M. Silarski, P. Moskalpublished in: AIP Conf. Proc. 950 (2007) 77Measurements of the pp-->ppK+K? reaction, performed with the experiment COSY?11 at the Cooler Synchrotron COSY, reveal a significant discrepancy between obtained excitation function and theoretical expectations neglecting interactions of kaons. Thus, the observed enhancement of the data above the predictions may be plausibly assigned to the influence of K+K? or Kp interaction. This may manifest itself even stronger in the distributions of the differential cross?sections. Therefore, in order to deepen our knowledge about the low energy dynamics of the ppKK system we investigate population of events for the pp?ppK+K? reaction as a function of the invariant masses of two particle subsystems. In particular generalizations of the Dalitz plot for the four particles proposed by Chodrow and Goldhaber will be presented.
- Terapia borowo-neutronowa BNCT przyszłością w leczeniu rozsianych nowotworówM. Szczepanek, M. Silarskipublished in: Foton 149 (2020) 28-35
- Antimatter reveals cancerT. Bednarski, P. Białas, E. Czerwiński, A. Gajos, T. Gruntowski, A. Gruntowski, T. Gucwa-Ryś, A. Heczko, M. Kajetanowicz, D. Kamińska, Ł. Kapłon, A. Kochanowski, G. Korcyl, J. Kowal, G. Konopka-Cupiał, T. Kozik, W. Krzemień, E. Kubicz, W. Migdał, M. Molenda, I. Moskal, P. Moskal, Sz. Niedźwiecki, M. Niedźwiecka-Pawlik, O. Rundel, Z. Rudy, P. Salabura, N. G. Sharma, M. Silarski, A. Słomski, J. Smyrski, A. Strzelecki, A. Wieczorek, M. Zieliński, N. Zońpublished in: Projektor Jagielloński 2
- Po co nam fizyka cząstek?M. Silarskipublished in: NIMB 15 (2012) 13
- Symetria CP a ewolucja WszechświatM. Silarskipublished in: Częstochowski Kalendarz Astronomiczny 2012:185-190
- Atometria jako metoda wykrywania substancji niebezpiecznychM. Silarski, P. Moskalpublished in: Foton 112 (2011) 15
- Poszukiwanie cząstek ciemnej materii w zderzeniach elektron-tarczaM. Silarskipublished in: Częstochowski Kalendarz Astronomiczny 2011:153-159
- Badania reakcji pp-->ppK + K - pod kątem oddziaływania kaon-proton i kaon-antykaonM. Silarskipublished in: Częstochowski Kalendarz Astronomiczny 2010:181-189
- Time calibration of the J-PET detectorM. Skurzok, M. Silarski12th International Workshop on Positron and Positronium Chemistry, 28 August - 1 September 2017, Lublin, Poland
- Matrix-PET: A novel PET detector concept based on large blocks of organic scintillatorsP. Moskal, T. Bednarski, A. Heczko, M. Kajetanowicz, Ł. Kapłon, A. Kochanowski, G. Konopka-Cupiał, G. Korcyl, W. Krzemień, K. Łojek, W. Migdał, M. Molenda, S. Niedzwiecki, Z. Rudy, P. Salabura, M. Silarski, A. Słomski, J. Smyrski, J. Zdebik, M. ZielińskiPETRAD, Conference on Positron Emission Tomography in Research and Diagnostics 2012
- STRIP-PET: Concept of TOF-PET scanner based on polymer scintillator strips.P. Moskal, T. Bednarski, A. Heczko, M. Kajetanowicz, Ł. Kapłon, A. Kochanowski, G. Konopka - Cupiał, G. Korcyl, W. Krzemień, K. Łojek, W. Migdał, M. Molenda, S. Niedzwiecki, P. Salabura. M. Silarski, A. Słomski, J. Smyrski, Z. Rudy, J. Zdebik, M. ZielińskiPETRAD, Conference on Positron Emission Tomography in Research and Diagnostics 2012
- Atomometria jako metoda wykrywania materiałów wybuchowychP. Moskal & M. Silarski
- Search for the Ks-->3pi0 decay with the KLOE detectorM. SilarskiSchool on Amplitude Analysis in Modern Physics from hadron spectroscopy to CP phases, Bad Honnef, Germany
- Title: Sposób kalibracji detektorów TOF-PET przy wykorzystaniu promieniowania kosmicznegoTitle in English: A method for calibration of tof-pet detectors using cosmic radiationAuthor(s): E. Czerwiński, P. Moskal, M. SilarskiPolish patent number: PL 223751Polish patent filing date: 2013-08-30Polish patent grant date: 2016-10-31US patent number: US 9,798,021US patent filing date: 2016-02-29US patent grant date: 2017-10-24
- Title: Urządzenie oraz sposób nieinwazyjnego wykrywania materiałów niebezpiecznych w środowisku wodnymTitle in English: Device and method for non-invasive detection of hazardous materials in the aquatic environmentAuthor(s): M. Silarski, P. MoskalPolish patent number: PL 225474Polish patent filing date: 2014-07-09Polish patent grant date: 2017-04-28European patent number: EP 3189356European patent filing date: 2017-04-04European patent grant date: 2019-10-30US patent number: US 10,126,257US patent filing date: 2017-03-06US patent grant date: 2018-11-13Japanese patent number: JP 6580675Japanese patent filing date: 2017-03-07Japanese patent grant date: 2019-09-06
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