SO q (n+1,n−1) as a real form of SO q (2n,ℂ)

Quantum pseudo-orthogonal groups SO _q (n+1,n–1) are defined as real forms of quantum orthogonal groups SO _q (n+1,n–1) by means of a suitable antilinear involution. In particular, the casen=2 gives a quantized Lorentz group.     

Principles and recent developments in ultrasound contrast agents

The behaviour of gas bubbles and gas encapsulated spheres as echographic contrast agents is reviewed. Compared with rigid spheres, gas bubbles are superior scattering agents and they offer a number of useful properties which can be exploited in a variety of ways. The analysis of their velocity of sound, back-scatter intensity, second harmonic emission and resonant frequency opens up new perspectives in the development of contrast agents for echocardiographic research with potential clinical applications.     

Analysis of plane and axisymmetric flows of incompressible fluids with the stream tube method: Numerical simulation by trust-region optimization algorithm

New concepts for the study of incompressible plane or axisymmetric flows are analysed by the stream tube method. Flows without eddies and pure vortex flows are considered in a transformed domain where the mapped streamlines are rectilinear or circular. The transformation between the physical domain and the computational domain is an unknown of the problem. In order to solve the non-linear set of relevant equations, we present a new algorithm based on a trust region technique which is effective for non-convex optimization problems. Experimental results show that the new algorithm is more robust compared to the Newton-Raphson method.     

Optimizing in the class of Fuller modified limited information maximum likelihood estimators

A general class of Fuller modified maximum likelihood estimators are considered. It is shown that this class possesses finite moments. Asymptotic bias and asymptotic mean squared error are derived using small-σ expansions. A simulation study is carried out to compare different estimators in this class with standard estimators.     

Efficacy of the accent method of voice therapy

The management of voice disorders may follow one of four approaches: surgical, pharmacological, technical aid, and/or voice therapy. The latter approach offers a wide variety of techniques, each based on certain theoretical beliefs. One of these techniques is the Smith Accent Method. The principles and goals of the Accent Method are presented. The results of its application are discussed. This technique proved effective for cases of functional voice disorders, vocal nodules, and some degrees of vocal fold paralysis.     

Algebraic properties of the 1 + 1-dimensional Heisenberg spin field model

The Estabrook-Wahlquist prolongation method is applied to the (compact and noncompact) continuous isotropic Heisenberg model in 1 + 1 dimensions. Using a special realization (an algebra of the Kac-Moody type) of the arising incomplete prolongation Lie algebra, a whole family of nonlinear field equations containing the original Heisenberg system is generated.