Ermakov-Lewis symmetry in photonic lattices

We present a class of waveguide arrays that is the classical analog of a quantum harmonic oscillator where the mass and frequency depend on the propagation distance. In these photonic lattices refractive indices and second neighbor couplings define the mass and frequency of the analog quantum oscillator, while first neighbor couplings are a free parameter to adjust the model. The quantum model conserves the Ermakov-Lewis invariant, thus the photonic crystal also posses this symmetry.Comment: 8 pages, 3 figure

Supersymmetric Laser Arrays

The theoretical framework of supersymmetry (SUSY) aims to relate bosons and fermions -- two profoundly different species of particles -- and their interactions. While this space-time symmetry is seen to provide an elegant solution to many unanswered questions in high-energy physics, its experimental verification has so far remained elusive. Here, we demonstrate that, notions from supersymmetry can be strategically utilized in optics in order to address one of the longstanding challenges in laser science. In this regard, a supersymmetric laser array is realized, capable of emitting exclusively in its fundamental transverse mode. Our results not only pave the way towards devising new schemes for scaling up radiance in integrated lasers, but also on a more fundamental level, they could shed light on the intriguing synergy between non-Hermiticity and supersymmetry

Breather Statics and Dynamics in Klein--Gordon Chains with a Bend

In this communication, we examine a nonlinear model with an impurity emulating a bend. We justify the geometric interpretation of the model and connect it with earlier work on models including geometric effects. We focus on both the bifurcation and stability analysis of the modes that emerge as a function of the strength of the bend angle, but we also examine dynamical effects including the scattering of mobile localized modes (discrete breathers) off of such a geometric structure. The potential outcomes of such numerical experiments (including transmission, trapping within the bend as well as reflection) are highlighted and qualitatively explained. Such models are of interest both theoretically in understanding the interplay of breathers with curvature, but also practically in simple models of photonic crystals or of bent chains of DNA.Comment: 14 pages, 16 figure

Am I Normal? Informing the public about psychosis through websites and beer mats

Well devised information campaigns about psychosis have been shown to reduce stigmatising attitudes and reduce the time psychosis is left untreated. The following paper describes an information campaign initiated by two Early Intervention in Psychosis (EIP) Services

Bistable light detectors with nonlinear waveguide arrays

Bistability induced by nonlinear Kerr effect in arrays of coupled waveguides is studied and shown to be a means to conceive light detectors that switch under excitation by a weak signal. The detector is obtained by coupling two single 1D waveguide to an array of coupled waveguides with adjusted indices and coupling. The process is understood by analytical description in the conservative and continuous case and illustrated by numerical simulations of the model with attenuation.Comment: Phys. Rev. Lett., v.94, (2005, to be published

Creation of discrete solitons and observation of the Peierls-Nabarro barrier in Bose-Einstein Condensates

We analyze the generation and mobility of discrete solitons in Bose-Einstein condensates confined in an optical lattice under realistic experimental conditions. We discuss first the creation of 1D discrete solitons, for both attractive and repulsive interatomic interactions. We then address the issue of their mobility, focusing our attention on the conditions for the experimental observability of the Peierls-Nabarro barrier. Finally we report on the generation of self-trapped structures in two and three dimensions. Discrete solitons may open alternative routes for the manipulation and transport of Bose-Einstein condensates.Comment: 7 pages, 6 eps figure

Will oscillating wave surge converters survive tsunamis?

With an increasing emphasis on renewable energy resources, wave power technology is becoming one of the realistic solutions. However, the 2011 tsunami in Japan was a harsh reminder of the ferocity of the ocean. It is known that tsunamis are nearly undetectable in the open ocean but as the wave approaches the shore its energy is compressed, creating large destructive waves. The question posed here is whether an oscillating wave surge converter (OWSC) could withstand the force of an incoming tsunami. Several tools are used to provide an answer: an analytical 3D model developed within the framework of linear theory, a numerical model based on the non-linear shallow water equations and empirical formulas. Numerical results show that run-up and draw-down can be amplified under some circumstances, leading to an OWSC lying on dry ground

Bragg solitons in nonlinear PT-symmetric periodic potentials

It is shown that slow Bragg soliton solutions are possible in nonlinear complex parity-time (PT) symmetric periodic structures. Analysis indicates that the PT-symmetric component of the periodic optical refractive index can modify the grating band structure and hence the effective coupling between the forward and backward waves. Starting from a classical modified massive Thirring model, solitary wave solutions are obtained in closed form. The basic properties of these slow solitary waves and their dependence on their respective PT-symmetric gain/loss profile are then explored via numerical simulations.Comment: 6 pages, 4 figures, published in Physical Review

Statistical Theory for Incoherent Light Propagation in Nonlinear Media

A novel statistical approach based on the Wigner transform is proposed for the description of partially incoherent optical wave dynamics in nonlinear media. An evolution equation for the Wigner transform is derived from a nonlinear Schrodinger equation with arbitrary nonlinearity. It is shown that random phase fluctuations of an incoherent plane wave lead to a Landau-like damping effect, which can stabilize the modulational instability. In the limit of the geometrical optics approximation, incoherent, localized, and stationary wave-fields are shown to exist for a wide class of nonlinear media.Comment: 4 pages, REVTeX4. Submitted to Physical Review E. Revised manuscrip