, 3p2nγ ) fusion-evaporation reactions at bombarding energies of 270 and 380 MeV, respectively. γ rays were detected at the target position using the JUROGAM spectrometer while recoiling ions were separated in-flight by the RITU gas-filled recoil separator and implanted in the GREAT spectrometer. The energy level schemes for 163 Re and 165 Re were identified using recoil-decay correlation techniques. At low spin, the yrast bands of these isotopes consist of signature partner bands based on a single πh 11/2 quasiproton configuration. The bands display large energy splitting consistent with the soft triaxial shape typical of transitional nuclei above N = 82. The configurations of the excited states are proposed within the framework of the cranked shell model.

Excited states in the neutron-deficient nucleus ^H fgg have been populated using the 118Sn(48Ti,5n)161Hf and ll0Pd(56Fe,5n)161Hf fusion-evaporation reactions at 240 and 270 MeV, respectively. The level scheme for 161 Hf has been extended with the observation of new band structures and an 1* = (13/2+) isomeric state with a half-life of 4.8(2) ps has been identified. The decay path from this isomer to the (7/2A ground state is established. The yrast band, based on the (13/2+) isomeric state, is extended up to (73/2+) and side band structures are identified up to (69/2") and (55/2"). Quasiparticle assignments for these rotational structures are made on the basis of their alignment properties and Woods-Saxon cranked shell-model calculations.