Z2Z_2 Topological Order and the Quantum Spin Hall Effect

The quantum spin Hall (QSH) phase is a time reversal invariant electronic state with a bulk electronic band gap that supports the transport of charge and spin in gapless edge states. We show that this phase is associated with a novel $Z_2$ topological invariant, which distinguishes it from an ordinary insulator. The $Z_2$ classification, which is defined for time reversal invariant Hamiltonians, is analogous to the Chern number classification of the quantum Hall effect. We establish the $Z_2$ order of the QSH phase in the two band model of graphene and propose a generalization of the formalism applicable to multi band and interacting systems.Comment: 4 pages RevTeX. Added reference, minor correction

On Nahm's transformation with twisted boundary conditions

Following two different tracks, we arrive at a definition of Nahm's transformation valid for self-dual fields on the 4-dimensional torus with non-zero twist tensor.The transform is again a self-dual gauge field defined on a new torus and with non-zero twist tensor. It preserves the property of being an involution.Comment: 18 page

A Suggestion for Modification of Vafa-Witten Theory

Using the Mathai-Quillen formalism we reexamine the twisted N=4 supersymmetric model of Vafa-Witten theory. Smooth out the relation between the supersymmetric action and the path integral representation of the Thom class.Comment: Latex, 23kb, no figure

Form and index of Ginsparg-Wilson fermions

We clarify the questions rised by a recent example of a lattice Dirac operator found by Chiu. We show that this operator belongs to a class based on the Cayley transformation and that this class on the finite lattice generally does not admit a nonvanishing index, while in the continuum limit, due to operator properties in Hilbert space, this defect is no longer there. Analogous observations are made for the chiral anomaly. We also elaborate on various aspects of the underlying sum rule for the index.Comment: 10 pages; v2: equation corrected, conclusions unchange

Curvature, Cones, and Characteristic Numbers

We study Einstein metrics on smooth compact 4-manifolds with an edge-cone singularity of specified cone angle along an embedded 2-manifold. To do so, we first derive modified versions of the Gauss-Bonnet and signature theorems for arbitrary Riemannian 4-manifolds with edge-cone singularities, and then show that these yield non-trivial obstructions in the Einstein case. We then use these integral formulae to obtain interesting information regarding gravitational instantons which arise as limits of such edge-cone manifolds.Comment: 37 pages, LaTeX2e. 1 figure, 1 tabl