Spin-stiffness and topological defects in two-dimensional frustrated spin systems

Using a {\it collective} Monte Carlo algorithm we study the low-temperature and long-distance properties of two systems of two-dimensional classical tops. Both systems have the same spin-wave dynamics (low-temperature behavior) as a large class of Heisenberg frustrated spin systems. They are constructed so that to differ only by their topological properties. The spin-stiffnesses for the two systems of tops are calculated for different temperatures and different sizes of the sample. This allows to investigate the role of topological defects in frustrated spin systems. Comparisons with Renormalization Group results based on a Non Linear Sigma model approach and with the predictions of some simple phenomenological model taking into account the topological excitations are done.Comment: RevTex, 25 pages, 14 figures, Minor changes, final version. To appear in Phys.Rev.

Loop Equations for + and - Loops in c = 1/2 Non-Critical String Theory

New loop equations for all genera in $c = \frac{1}{2}$ non-critical string theory are constructed. Our loop equations include two types of loops, loops with all Ising spins up (+ loops) and those with all spins down ( $-$ loops). The loop equations generate an algebra which is a certain extension of $W_3$ algebra and are equivalent to the $W_3$ constraints derived before in the matrix-model formulation of 2d gravity. Application of these loop equations to construction of Hamiltonian for $c = \frac{1}{2}$ string field theory is considered.Comment: 21 pages, LaTex file, no figure

Use of green fluorescent protein in visualisation of pneumococcal invasion of broncho-epithelial cells in vivo

The pneumococcus is the principle cause of bacterial pneumonia and also a major cause of bacterial meningitis. The mechanisms and sites of pneumococcal adherence and invasion of the respiratory tract in vivo are not clear however. We have made pneumococci expressing green fluorescent protein (GFP) and used it to trace pneumococcal adherence and invasion in vivo. By using GFP pneumococci we have shown bacterial adherence and invasion of broncho-epithelial cells in vivo by 4 h post-infection, with increases in pneumococcal invasiveness by 24 h. Using confocal image analysis we have shown varying levels of pneumococcal penetration and internalisation into host cells, as well as translocation through epithelial layers. To our knowledge this is the first report of pneumococcal invasion and cellular translocation in vivo