The relativistic quantum dynamics of scalar bosons in the background of a
full vector coupling (minimal plus nonminimal vector couplings) is explored in
the context of the Duffin-Kemmer-Petiau formalism. The Coulomb phase shift is
determined for a general mixing of couplings and it is shown that the space
component of the nonminimal coupling is a {\it sine qua non} condition for the
exact closed-form scattering amplitude. It follows that the Rutherford cross
section vanishes in the absence of the time component of the minimal coupling.
Bound-state solutions obtained from the poles of the partial scattering
amplitude show that the time component of the minimal coupling plays an
essential role. The bound-state solutions depend on the nonminimal coupling and
the spectrum consists of particles or antiparticles depending on the sign of
the time component of the minimal coupling without chance for pair production
even in the presence of strong couplings. It is also shown that an accidental
degeneracy appears for a particular mixing of couplings.Comment: 8 pages, 1 table. arXiv admin note: text overlap with arXiv:1403.603