Bound states of string networks and D-branes

We show the existence of nonthreshold bound states of (p,q) string networks and D3-branes, preserving 1/4 of the full type-IIB supersymmetry, interpreted as string networks "dissolved" in D3-branes. We also explicitly write down the expression for the mass density of the system and discuss the extension of the construction to other Dp-branes. Differences in our construction of string networks with the ones interpreted as dyons in N = 4 gauge theories are also pointed out.     

All-optical time-division demultiplexing and spatial pulse routing with a GaAs/AlGaAs microring resonator

We report what is to our knowledge the first demonstration of all-optical time-division demultiplexing and spatial pulse routing in a compact nonlinear GaAs/AlGaAs microring resonator operating at 1.55 microm . Switching is through the refractive-index change induced by two-photon absorption. The switching time of the device, limited by the ring-charging time and the recombination time of the induced carriers, is measured to be 30 ps. The switching on-off contrast, limited by the slight mismatch between the input and output coupling coefficients, exceeds 8 dB. The device can be used for time-division multiplexing as well.     

The use of thermal analysis in the approximate determination of the cement content in concrete

Thermal analysis was first used to investigate the pattern of dissociation of hydrated ordinary Portland cement. Portlandite (Ca(OH)₂) decomposes at about 500°C. This was confirmed by kinetic calculations. Thermal analysis was then performed to establish the effect of varying the cement content on the percent mass loss associated with the decomposition of Ca(OH)₂ in cement mortar cured for 28 days. An increasing relation was obtained. Standard concrete cubes were then prepared with cement contents ranging from 200 to 450 kg m^-3. The loss in mass on heating, up to 750°C, of concrete samples cured for 28 days was then related to the cement content in concrete. The relation obtained was tested for concrete cubes of known cement content and found to be in better agreement than the results obtained by conventional chemical analysis. This method can be used for an approximate determination of the cement content in concrete. This revised version was published online in July 2006 with corrections to the Cover Date.     

Cloud point extraction procedure for flame atomic absorption spectrometric determination of lead(II) in sediment and water samples

The conditions for cloud point extraction of lead(II) from aqueous solutions were investigated and optimized. The procedure is based on the separation of Pb(II) – brillant cresyl blue (BCB) complexes into the micellar media by adding the surfactant Triton X-114. After phase separation, the surfactant-rich phase was dissolved with 1 mol L⁻¹ HNO₃ in ethanol and diluted with 1 mol L⁻¹ HNO₃ solution before lead was determined by flame atomic absorption spectrometry. Optimization of the pH, ligand and surfactant quantities, incubation time, temperature, viscosity, sample volume, and interfering ions was performed. The effects of the matrix ions were also examined. The detection limits for three times the standard deviations of the blank for lead were 7.5 μg L⁻¹ for water samples and 0.33 μg g⁻¹ for sediment samples. The validity of cloud point extraction was checked by employing certified reference samples of Lake Sediment IAEA-SL-1 and Sewage Sludge BCR-CRM 144R. The procedure was applied to natural waters and sediment samples with satisfactory results (recoveries >95%, relative standard deviations <6.4%).     

Generalized Euler transformation in extracting useful information from divergent (asymptotic) perturbation series and the construction of Padé approximants

Euler transformation for accelerating convergence of a series is considered in the context of handling divergent (asymptotically convergent) perturbation series. A generalized (parametrized) version of this transformation is developed, based on the conjecture of Dalgarno and Stewart, which works better. Viewed from this standpoint, the Padé approximants follow as a special case of the parametrized Euler transformation (PET ), as is the case with the μ transformation procedure of Feenberg in a perturbative context. The PET is shown to serve as a more general method of handling a divergent series and is able to appreciate the construction and convergence behavior of specific sequences of Padé approximants. The role of parametrization in the context of the Z^?1 perturbation theory of atoms is also noted and the workability of the adopted strategy is demonstrated by choosing some specific test cases.     

Pion form factors and phase shifts

The problem of determining theP-waveπ-π phase-shifts given the modulus of the electromagnetic form-factor in the time-like momentum transfer region has been discussed. The problem ofK ₁ ⁰ ?K ₂ ⁰ mass difference has been discussed with emphasis on the scalar form-factor rather than models ofπ -π scattering.     

Multiobjective strategies in power systems planning

The rapidly changing decision environment in electrical systems planning calls for a new approach in planning procedures and mathematical tools. The method proposed in this study decomposes the decision making into two strata, one at the strategy setting, the other at the project selection level. For the strategy setting level, a multiobjective dynamic linear programming model is used in generating system expansion decision alternatives. The suitability of the modelling approach is considered from the various aspects such as congruence, flexibility, transparency, and accuracy.An application of the model to the Turkish electrical system is also presented, where expansion alternatives to the year 2000 are generated. Three criteria were observed: cost, environmental impact and risk.     

Gravimetric and Colorimetric Determinations of Copper,Cobalt, Zinc and Mercury with 1-(2-Methylindole-3-Acetyl)-4-Arylthiosemicarbazide

1-(2-Methylindole-3-acetyl)4-arylthiosemicarbazides have been prepared and were used as reagents for gravimetric and colorimetric determinations of copper, cobalt, zinc and mercury. The synthesis of the same metal complexes of these thiosemicarbazides as a potential biological derivatives was also described.