The LPCTrap experiment: measurement of the β–ν angular correlation in 6He using a transparent Paul trap

We report on the status of the LPCTrap experiment, devoted to measure the β–ν angular correlation in the pure Gamow–Teller decay of ⁶He. This measurement is motivated by the search for the presence of tensor type contributions to the weak interaction. The ⁶He ions are confined in a novel transparent Paul trap. The β particles and the recoil ions are detected in coincidence to deduce the angular correlation parameter. The commissioning run performed in 2005 has given the proof of principle of this experiment. Up to 10⁵ coincidences were recorded during a second run in 2006.     

Normal Bundles to Laufer Rational Curves in Local Calabi–Yau Threefolds

We prove a conjecture by F. Ferrari. Let X be the total space of a nonlinear deformation of a rank two holomorphic vector bundle on a smooth rational curve, such that X has trivial canonical bundle and has sections. Then the normal bundle to such sections is computed in terms of the rank of the Hessian of a suitably defined superpotential at its critical points.     

The electron ionization rate in multilayered semiconductor structures

We present theoretical results of the electron impact ionization rate in GaAs/AlGaAs multiquantum well structures as a function of applied electric field for various geometries, i.e., well and barrier widths. In addition, we present preliminary measurements of the current-voltage characteristics of MBE grown devices which demonstrate very low leakage current as well as sharp breakdwon behavior. It is found that the net ionization rate, determined by averaging over the constitutent GaAs and AlGaAs layers, approaches the weighted average of the constituent bulk rates at high electric field strengths; the potential discontinuity is relatively unimportant. The electron ionization rate within the well regions alone is still higher than that in bulk GaAs, but is insufficiently enhanced to compensate for the much lower rate in the AlGaAs layers. As the field is lowered to 250.0 kV/cm, the average ionization rate in the multiquantum well structure becomes larger than in the bulk.     

Coalgebraic representations of distributive lattices with operators

We present a framework for extending Stone's representation theorem for distributive lattices to representation theorems for distributive lattices with operators. We proceed by introducing the definition of algebraic theory of operators over distributive lattices. Each such theory induces a functor on the category of distributive lattices such that its algebras are exactly the distributive lattices with operators in the original theory. We characterize the topological counterpart of these algebras in terms of suitable coalgebras on spectral spaces. We work out some of these coalgebraic representations, including a new representation theorem for distributive lattices with monotone operators.     

OR and the challenge to improve the NHS: modelling for insight and improvement in in-patient flows

This paper considers efforts to improve in-patient flows, a particularly urgent issue in the National Health Service (NHS). The context is described and related to reasons why OR has been making relatively little contribution. The paper argues that large complex models may often be unnecessary and even get in the way of providing clear insight and guidance for problem owners. The importance of understanding the generic working of systems to lead to improvement, and the limitations of simply describing them, is stressed. It is demonstrated that some very simple models can be of significant practical value in understanding and managing complex systems, changing mindsets and driving collection and use of operationally valuable data. Recommendations for more effective engagement with the NHS are offered.     

Nonvanishing cohomology and classes of Gorenstein rings

We give counterexamples to the following conjecture of Auslander: given a finitely generated module M over an Artin algebra Λ, there exists a positive integer n_M such that for all finitely generated Λ-modules N, if Ext_Λⁱ(M,N)=0 for all i?0, then Ext_Λⁱ(M,N)=0 for all i?n_M. Some of our examples moreover yield homologically defined classes of commutative local rings strictly between the class of local complete intersections and the class of local Gorenstein rings.     

Mathematical Model of a Social Insurance Fund with Random Expenditures for Social Programs (the Diffusion Approximation)

In the present work, the diffusion approximation of the capital is constructed for the mathematical model of a social insurance fund with random expenditures for social programs. The discontinuous hysteresis control of the fund capital is considered.     

Diffraction of the Electromagnetic Wave on a Small Obstacle of Elliptic Form in a Layer

The problem on the diffraction of the electromagnetic plane wave on a small obstacle included in a layer is investigated. The obstacle is assumed to be an elliptic cylinder whose diameter and focal distance are small in comparison with the length of the incident wave. It is proved that the small obstacle radiates as a point source, and its amplitude is proportional to the area of the cross-section and the jumps of the dielectric and magnetic constants on the interfaces. Bibliography: 5 titles.     

Pyroelectric effect in lead-magnoniobate-based solid solutions

A coordinated study of the dielectric, electrostriction, and pyroelectric properties of the lead-magnoniobate-based ceramic solid solutions 0.9PbMg_1/3Nb_2/3O₃-0.1PbTiO₃ and 0.55PbMg_1/3Nb_2/3O₃-0.45PbSc_1/2Nb_1/2O₃ conducted at the relaxor transition temperatures is reported. Electromechanical coupling stimulated by the giant electrostriction effect is shown to play an essential part in the pyroelectric effect.