A compilation of total cross section data on e^+ e^- --> hadrons and pQCD tests

Abstract

All available data on the total cross sections and R-ratio of e^+ e^- --> hadrons are compiled from the PPDS(DataGuide), PPDS(ReacData) and HEPDATA(Reaction) databases and transformed to a compilation of data on the e^+ e^- --> quark antiquark --> hadrons in the continuum region which can be used in tests of the parton model and pQCD calculations. This evaluated data compilation is made available in PPDS system and is accessible through the Web. It is shown that current predictions from the parton model and pQCD are well supported by this world "continuum" data compilation which can then be used in future refinements of the alpha_s(Q^2) as well as alpha_{QED}(Q^2) evolution forms.