A solution of the DGLAP equation for gluon at low x

We obtain a solution of the DGLAP equation for the gluon at low x first by expanding the gluon in a Taylor series and then using the method of characteristics. We test its validity by comparing it with that of Glück, Reya and Vogt. The convergence criteria of the approximation used are also discussed. We also calculate εF ₂(x,Q)²/ε In Q ² using its approximate relations with the gluon distribution at low x. The predictions are then compared with the HERA data.     

Robust linear optimization under general norms

We explicitly characterize the robust counterpart of a linear programming problem with uncertainty set described by an arbitrary norm. Our approach encompasses several approaches from the literature and provides guarantees for constraint violation under probabilistic models that allow arbitrary dependencies in the distribution of the uncertain coefficients.     

Working group report: Neutrino and astroparticle physics

This is the report of neutrino and astroparticle physics working group at WHEPP-7. Discussions and work on CP violation in long baseline neutrino experiments, ultra high energy neutrinos, supernova neutrinos and water Cerenkov detectors are discussed.     

Search for Resolution of Chiral Fluorohalogenomethanes and Parity‐Violation Effects at the Molecular Level

The first observation of a parity‐violation effect in molecules induced by weak interactions is still a dream that requires the synthesis and, eventually, the resolution of the enantiomers of well‐chosen simple chiral molecules together with an appropriate experimental set‐up for high‐resolution spectroscopy. Performing IR spectroscopy on highly enantiomerically enriched samples of bromochlorofluoromethane succeeded in giving an upper limit of 10^?13 for the relative vibrational energy difference between the two enantiomers. These results led us to conceive a new experimental set‐up based on a supersonic molecular beam and to work on other chiral molecules, such as chlorofluoroiodomethane. A synthesis of (±)‐CHClFI from racemic chlorofluoroiodoacetic acid should, in the near future permit the preparation of optically active samples of this haloform. The development of molecular beam spectroscopy using a two‐photon Ramsey‐fringes experiment should allow us to reach the precision needed to observe parity violation. These experimental challenges, which stimulate a close collaboration between chemists and physicists, are presented. The success of these projects would open the route to new information on the molecular Hamiltonian, a better knowledge of the electroweak interaction, and a better control of the various chirality‐related properties of simple molecules.     

Algebraic spatial correlations in lattice gas automata violating detailed balance

In this paper we discuss the existence of generic long-range correlations in spatially homogeneous and stable equilibrium states of closed lattice gas automata whose stochastic collision rules violate the symmetry conditions of detailed balance and in addition satisfy local conservation laws. Such correlations occur even though the collision rules are strictly local and invariant under all symmetries of the lattice. First a phenomenological (Langevin equation) approach is discussed. Next we present a theoretical analysis on the basis of an approximate microscopic (ring kinetic) theory. This theory is used to calculate the amplitude ofr ^– tails in the spatial correlations, and the result is compared with computer simulations.     

Gravity and CP violation

The non-conservation of CP symmetry in the decay of neutralK mesons was discovered almost three decades ago. The origin of this unique phenomenon is still not well understood. There have been attempts to link it with energy splitting of theK and in the earth's gravitational field. In this essay we examine these attempts critically. A more natural way in which a gravitational field can couple asymmetrically to the system is through torsion, which coupling to isospin can, in addition to parity violation, also give rise to a C violation. The magnitude of this effect is estimated in the vicinity of a kaon and found to give a CP-violating parameter of the right value. Moreover, it is predicted that the CP violating parameter for the new system is much smaller 10^–6. Implications for baryogenesis in the early universe is also studied. In this paper we work not with the Newtonian gravitational constantG but with a torsion coupling constant, which is energy-dependent and can be related to the Fermi weak interaction constant.     

The Role of Carnitine Acyltransferases in the Maintenance of Cell Function

Summary. Carnitine acyltransferases catalyse equilibria between acyl-CoA esters and the respective acylcarnitines. Therefore, they act not only as pathway enzymes, but also as modulators of acyl-CoA concentrations within individual sub-cellular compartments. Because acyl-CoA esters are potent biologically active metabolites, carnitine acyltransferase activities are potentially able to affect a diverse range of physiological processes, ranging from insulin secretion, to appetite control, and insulin sensitivity of tissues. The distinctive subcellular distributions of the different types of carnitine acyltransferases also enables them to participate in the transfer of acyl moieties across intracellular membranes, and of particular acylcarnitine esters across the plasma membrane and into the plasma. Pharmacological strategies that make use of these properties to improve cell function are discussed.     

The formation of stars

We review the process of star formation, detailing the theories underlying the stability of molecular clouds and their collapse to protostars, and discussing the empirical evidence and models which inform them. We give emphasis to the role that the magnetic field plays in influencing the stability of molecular clouds and hence the star formation rate. The end result of star formation is a mass function which appears constant within our Galaxy. A relative abundance of low mass stars is observed over high mass stars and most of the stars that do form are found to exist as members of a binary system. The origin of binarity is reviewed as is the discovery, formation and observations of some of the lowest mass stars known, the brown dwarfs.